Questions to Ask Your HVAC Contractor (& Answers You Should Receive)
When getting ready to hire any kind of contractor, you should ask a number of questions to make sure the contractor you are considering is a good fit for the job. In this article, we are going to talk about some of the smart questions to ask an HVAC contractor. There are plenty of companies out there vying for your business, of course, so asking a few pointed questions can help you sort through them quickly and easily. Let’s get started!
Is Maintenance Worth the Investment?
As with pretty much everything else around your home, you will need to invest in ongoing maintenance if you hope to get the best out of your HVAC system over the years. If you ask your contractor about maintenance needs, you should get a clear and honest explanation of what is required, and when. Skipping out on maintenance might save you a little bit of money in the short term, but that’s likely to be a decision that you will regret later on.
Should I Repair or Replace My System?
This is a common question, and a good contractor will be willing to give you an honest answer. Since there are many variables at play, you actually need to speak with a contractor who can assess the details of your situation to provide a recommendation. As a general rule of thumb, a unit which is more than 10 years old is probably a better candidate for replacement than repair. However, that is just a guideline, so you don’t want to use that point as your only criteria. If necessary, ask two or three contractors to give you an opinion on the repair or replace debate so you can gather plenty of information before making a choice.
How Long Will My Air Conditioner Last?
Some contractors are in the habit of making ridiculous promises just to close a deal. You don’t want to work with that kind of contractor. So, if you ask about the longevity of a new air conditioner that you are considering purchasing, make sure they tell you the truth. It’s usually reasonable to get somewhere from 15 to 20 years out of a good system, but again, that’s another point that is subject to variables. The conditions that the unit will be working in can have a big impact on how long it will last. As one example, those living near the ocean may find that the salty air causes their air conditioner to break down well in advance of that 15 to 20-year window.
Anything Else You Want to Know
Don’t hold back when asking questions of a potential contractor. This is your money, and your project, so you should feel free to ask relevant questions before getting started. If a contractor doesn’t want to take the time to answer your questions, or doesn’t have satisfactory answers, there are always more businesses to consider. Only sign on the dotted line when you are sure you’ve found a winner!
