6 Questions to Ask Your Contractor When You're Getting An HVAC Unit Repaired or Installed
It seems like your HVAC unit always breaks at the most inopportune times. It never happens when a cold front is coming through, always a heat wave. When you're overheating and in need of HVAC repair, you're desperate to get the AC back on. But you should always take your time when getting HVAC quotes. Going with the first company you find may put you in a tough spot and cost you extra money.
To makes things easier, we've put together this list of 6 essential questions to ask. Ask every contractor that you're considering for an HVAC repair or unit installation. This will help to avoid pitfalls and ensure you end up with the right system for you.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Whenever you're having any kind of work done in your home, this question should be on your list to ask the contractor. Licensure is very important to ensure that the people you are inviting into your home are legitimate and know what they're doing.
Insurance is also a must. If a worker is injured while on your property, you could be in serious trouble if the company doesn't have the proper insurance. It's unlikely that your homeowner's insurance will want to pay either. In a worst-case scenario, you could get stuck with the bill.
2. What Size Unit Do I Need?
The size unit you need is an important thing to find out when purchasing a unit. If you buy one that is too small, it may not be able to live up to your expectations. It also may burn out quicker from being overworked. However, you don't want to buy a system that is too big, either. You'll just be shelling out extra money for no reason.
3. Do I Qualify for a Rebate or Tax Credit?
Sometimes, you can qualify for rebates or tax credits for a new, energy efficient HVAC system. This can help offset the cost of purchasing and installing the unit.
4. Who Handles the Permits?
Depending on the project, it may be necessary to get permits or approvals from your local authorities. Find out if the contractor will handle that for you, or if you will have to do it yourself.
5. Do You Offer a Warranty or Other Guarantee?
A reputable contractor will typically guarantee their work. Be sure to ask what kind of warranty or guarantee your potential contractor offers. Also, read the fine print to make sure that what it says on paper lines up with what the representative tells you.
6. How Long Will the Work Take?
Having workers at your home can be a big inconvenience. Depending on the work being done it can be noisy, plus someone needs to be home to let them in. Find out how long the contractor expects the work to take so you'll have an idea what to be prepared for.
Time for SomE Quotes
Now that you know what to ask, it's time to get out there and start getting some quotes.
For more information on how to keep your home safe, be sure to check out our blog! If you would like a free quote for your home, reach out to us today.