Questions for a Prospective HVAC Consultant
As a homeowner in Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey or Maryland, you are well aware of the importance of your home’s HVAC (heating, cooling and ventilation) system. If an important component of your HVAC system needs repair or replacement, you’ll want a qualified, licensed HVAC contractor to do the work. A reputable HVAC company will ensure that no mistakes are made when fixing your air conditioning or heating system.
Do Your Homework
- Research and take note of any license and insurance requirements for contractors in your state.
- Note the model of your current cooling or heating system and its maintenance history.
- Ask friends, family members and neighbors for referrals.
- Contact local trade organizations for HVAC contractors in your neighborhood.
Questions For Potential Contractors
- Ask for professional qualifications, including state licenses, insurance, NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification, experience with specific equipment and membership in any state and national contractor associations, such as Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
- Ask if they’re qualified to perform load calculations, duct design and installation following industry-standard methods.
- Ask for – and call – all customer references provided by the contractor, then ask former customers about the contractor’s work, including efficiency, timeliness and adherence to the budget. The contractor will evaluate your current system and home to assess your equipment needs based on the size of your house, level of insulation, the condition of the ductwork and the airflow levels.
- Ask for estimates – in writing – from at least three different HVAC companies.
- The estimates should list when the job will begin and when it will be completed.
- Each estimate should include an explanation of what work and/or equipment will be provided for their fee.
- Ask for an estimate of what it will cost to operate the new equipment on an annual basis.
- Ask about which guarantees, warranties and follow-up services are offered, including the cost and coverage of a maintenance service agreement.
At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.
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