When you need an HVAC company to install a new system or repair your existing system, you may not know who to hire. There are many options available to you. You want to select the most knowledgeable and experienced HVAC contractor. Comfort Systems is staffed with reputable and honest technicians. Here are some questions you want to ask when you are considering hiring an HVAC company.

What Size and Type of HVAC Unit Do I Need?

It’s important that you have the right size HVAC unit in your home. When your air conditioning unit is too small, it will run continuously. When this happens, your unit is at risk of breaking down much sooner than it should. When your AC unit is too large, it doesn’t stay on long enough to circulate the air in your home properly. You should know that air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps are measured in tons. The tonnage is not related to the weight of the unit. It is a measure of how much ice is able to melt in 24 hours. There is a calculation used to determine the right size for your house and ductwork. A general rule is you need 1 ton for every 500 feet of floor area. It’s a good idea that you ask any potential HVAC contractor this and compare the answer to what you’ve researched. This can help you know if they understand your needs.

How Efficient is a New System?

HVAC efficiency is measured by a SEER rating. This is the amount of cooling that’s provided by the unit, which is then divided by the energy usage. You should ask the HVAC contractor how that equals savings on your electric bill. For many people, the savings on their electric bill is most important.

What Brands Do You Sell and Service?

When you ask about the particular brands an HVAC contractor sells and specializes in, it alerts you if they will be more likely to recommend a specific brand. It may be able to save you money. However, you want to ensure that you are comfortable purchasing that brand. You don’t want to buy a brand that you don’t believe provides quality.

Is It Possible to Use My Current Ductwork?

If you can use your existing ductwork when installing an HVAC system, it can save you a significant amount of money. It’s a good idea to use as much of your current ductwork as possible unless you plan to move toward a ductless system. If your current ducts are in good shape, you want to ask the contractor if they can find a system that works with your existing duct setup. This helps you save money.

Does the New System Have a Warranty?

It’s important to understand what type of guarantees and warranties come with the equipment you purchase. For example, a guarantee may include manufacturer warranties. In addition, you want to know if the contractor provides guarantees on the quality of their work. This is a good sign that you’re dealing with a reputable and honest company.

If Permits are Needed, Will You Handle That?

Most HVAC work requires permits. There are many reasons why your contractor may need to pull a permit. For example, there could be a possibility of interfering with neighboring properties or an issue of property taxes. When a contractor addresses permits for you, the price should automatically be included in the price of the work. You shouldn’t get a surprise bill for permitting costs. A good contractor will be the one to pull the permits and should have experience in this area.

What Are The Terms of Payment?

A new HVAC system is an expensive undertaking. It’s a major home improvement project. As a result, before you sign anything, you want to know how the company handles the payment. They may offer a payment plan. A payment plan could be a credit card or a type of loan that allows you to pay for your HVAC system over time.

How Long Will It Take for the Job to be Completed?

It is important to know how long your HVAC project will take to complete. Most likely, someone will have to be home when the work is being completed. It’s not always easy to have an exact schedule because it’s often rough, but at least you can have an idea of when it will occur.

If you are interested in a new HVAC repair or replacement, contact us at Comfort Systems to talk about the possibilities available to you.

Posted in Air Conditioning