Whether you think it’s time for a furnace replacement or are due for an annual HVAC system inspection and tune-up, it’s important to hire the right HVAC contractor for the job. In doing so, it’s always wise to gather a handful of quotes from local HVAC contractors to help you choose someone you can trust.
The best HVAC contractors will never wave these red flags:
Anonymity — In addition to traditional and digital marketing, the best HVAC contractors rely on word of mouth from satisfied customers. Ask around among family members, friends and neighbors when you are narrowing your selection. If nobody has ever heard of the contractor, take pause. It’s better to choose a company that has a solid reputation in the community.
Quotes by phone — HVAC equipment replacement or repair jobs should never be quoted on the phone, sight unseen. A professional contractor will need to conduct a thorough inspection of your current system. If you are replacing your heating or cooling system, he will need to actually see your home first-hand to do load calculations. None of this can be done via phone or email.
Rule of thumb sizing — Again, accurate load calculations are the key to installing the right sized equipment for your home when it comes to replacing your HVAC equipment. Inadequately sized equipment will cost you in lack of energy-inefficiency and excessive wear and tear. If a contractor does not use Manuals J and D, or sizes the equipment using “rule of the thumb” estimations based on your square footage, you should choose another company.
Low-ball bidding — If you have a handful of quotes and one seems significantly lower than the rest, it should raise red flags. Bids should be written out line by line so you can make across-the-board cost comparisons. A quote that is drastically less than its counterparts may become a final repair bill with hidden costs and surprise charges.
Technicians who aren’t certified. Make sure the contractor’s technicians are certified. Your HVAC equipment warranties may depend on it.
Contact CCAC when you’re ready to hire a reliable HVAC contractor for your Corpus Christi home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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