Choosing The Right Air Conditioning Contractor

HVAC contractors usually play an important role when it comes to home comfort and safety. The following are steps to help you make the right decision. 

AC Contractor Requirements

Most states in the country require HVAC contractors to have a certain amount of apprenticeship or on-the-job training, usually 2-5 years, before they can get a license to work on HVAC systems. 

On-the-job experience is crucial because an HVAC contractor needs to have a good understanding of how all the systems in an HVAC unit works, including the condenser, electrical wiring, refrigerant, airflow through ducts, combustion systems and every other part of the heating and cooling systems. 

In addition to comfort, safety is also critical – knowing how the exhaust and ventilation systems work with the furnace can make the difference between preventing injury and death from incidences like carbon monoxide poisoning. This may occur as a result of improper installation or malfunctioning of the system. 

HVAC Contractor Drilling a Unit

Which Certifications Do HVAC Technicians Need?

Does Certification Matter? Understanding licensing and certification can help you make HVAC hiring decisions that are informed. 

Is Your HVAC Contractor Licensed?

Do you require assistance in finding a licensed contractor? Use the Contractor License Check Tool on Angies’s List

Checking Contractor Licenses

Almost every state in the country requires HVAC contractors to obtain a license, and some of these states also have a license lookup website to help residents check whether or not their contractor has a valid license. In some cities and municipalities, HVAC contractors may also be required to obtain a license before offering services in their jurisdiction. 

Angie’s List has an updated online database of licensed contractors, which also links to the websites of local governments and states. 

Since HVAC jobs may require fixing and installing plumbing to supply natural gas or oil to heating equipment, contractors may be required to also have a separate plumber’s license or to have qualified and licensed plumbers on call. In some jurisdictions, HVAC contractors are usually licensed to only handle this type of work. When requesting an estimate, you have to ask a contractor not just if they have a license, but also the type of license they hold. 

Important Questions to Ask

If your AC malfunctions during a hot sunny day or your furnace break down when temperatures are below zero, you will not hesitate to hire the first repairman you find. However, if you are planning a costly or major upgrade to the air conditioning, heating or air ducts of your home, it’s important you take your time to search for the best HVAC contractor for the job. Ig

Do not forget to ask the following questions when interviewing potential service providers.

Insurance, Bond and License: It is a legal requirement, in most local authorities and states, for heating and cooling contractors to show that they have met the minimum licensing requirements before getting a license. The requirements are usually; on-the-job training, formal training, education, and passing a written exam. 

HVAC companies must consistently hold a suitable insurance policy and bond that meet the minimum requirements in order to qualify for a license and continue to hold that license. Liability insurance is crucial as it protects all the parties from liabilities arising from work-related injuries and accidental damages, among other things. 

References: A professional HVAC company must provide potential clients with a list of customers they have recently served and provide their contact details for verification. By getting in touch with these references, clients can find out whether or not the contractor has been able to offer services that meet the customer’s satisfaction. Before making a decision, be sure to call those references to obtain the relevant details. 

Estimates: Since the cost of furnace and air conditioner installation, repair or replacement is high, it is crucial you obtain at least three estimates from the top-rated service providers. 

Comparing estimates is crucial because different firms usually charge different rates for their services, so you have to do some research before committing yourself. When analyzing estimates, you have to confirm that the project details, overall scope of works and completion dates are well-documented. 

Brands Carried: When looking for cost estimates for new equipment or replacements, you have to ask prospective contractors about the equipment brands or manufacturers they carry. While other home improvement contractors usually work with a wide range of equipment brands, HVAC contractors only handle a narrow selection of equipment brands. If you are doing your own comparison of prices, it is crucial you look at the equipment brands different firms handle to further narrow down your search. If you live in Riverside, air conditioning is a priority, so make sure your confident in who you hire.

Cumbersome HVAC Systems

If planning to replace the HVAC system in your home, you have to inquire about systems that need less floor space. The ideal unit must also accommodate remodels in the future. (Picture courtesy of Holly D., Angie’s List member from Memphis, TN). 

Experience With Your HVAC System: If you have a unique type of heating or cooling system, like geothermal heaters, it is crucial you look for a company with a lot of experience installing, repairing or maintaining the type of system you have. 

Tax Credits or Rebates: The type of home cooling or heating equipment you want to install or upgrade may actually come with tax credits and rebates. Therefore, you have to ask about the available incentives for the project. To get the incentives, you will have to document the project properly according to local, state and federal regulations. 

Payment Schedule: Installing a new air conditioner or furnace can be costly. Therefore, you may need a payment plan. The ideal contractor, therefore, should have flexible payment plans. The deposit required should also be affordable. Aside from the in-house financing offered by some HVAC contractors, you may also qualify for bank financing. 

Service Contracts: After installation, you will obviously need regular maintenance of your equipment. Ideally, you should ask for a service contract from the installer. However, you must do some research to ensure the contract terms and conditions are favorable.