When getting an HVAC estimate, it is best to ask a lot of questions so that you get exactly what you need, and at a fair price.
Working with contractors can be difficult at times. The reason is that you do not know their craft. This lack of knowledge leaves you confused and vulnerable to price gouging if you talk to the wrong provider. Below, we suggest 9 questions to ask when getting an HVAC estimate that will be helpful.
What Size System do I Need?
A significant factor in your estimate will be the size of the system. If your home is relatively small, you won’t need powerful machinery, and the opposite is true as well. If you make sure your HVAC provider is giving you the correct size, you will save money on your final bill.
Can My Current Ductwork Be Used?
If you are getting a brand new system, the HVAC company needs to decide whether or not they want to rebuild your ductwork or use what is already there. This choice can lead to a significant difference in cost.
Are You Bonded and Insured?
Homeowners are not the only ones with insurance. Instead, many HVAC companies have a policy of their own that protects homeowners in the case of a malfunctioning system. Making sure your HVAC provider has one is an excellent way to increase the safety of your transaction.
What New Technologies Do You Offer?
You may decide to use newer technologies like a ductless system or digital thermostats. If you do, you need to know if that company offers them and how much they charge for installation.
How Energy Efficient is This System?
Sometimes, homeowners get so caught up in saving money on their installation that they forget about their monthly utility bills. Unfortunately, choosing a cheaper system may cost you more in the long run due to inefficiency.
What Brands do You Use and Why?
The first reason to ask this is that some brands have a better reputation for reliability and you likely want those in your home. The second is that your HVAC provider should have a straightforward reason for why they do what they do. Having them explain themselves can tell you how reliable and knowledgeable they are.
What are Your Payment Plan Options?
HVAC system installations can be incredibly expensive. For this reason, you may not have all of the money available right away. In these cases, don’t settle for using a credit card to pay off the job. Instead, see if that company provides financing options.
Do You Have a Satisfaction Guarantee?
Though you rarely use them, it is always nice when a company gives a satisfaction guarantee. It allows you to rest because you know if anything goes wrong, you’ll still be taken care of.
How Long Will the Job Take?
No matter how pleasant your HVAC provider is, you don’t want them working on your home for too long. They should give you an idea of how many days your job will take before starting it.