If your air conditioner is nearing the end of its lifespan, consult with a reliable HVAC contractor. This professional can help you select a new HVAC system that you can count on for years to come, though you may not even know what this person does or how to find the right one.
What is an HVAC contractor? They are a tradesperson with specialized training in the installation and maintenance of HVAC systems. Their goal is to find the best climate control solutions for you.
Some HVAC contractors will specialize in commercial services while others will focus on residential. If you are replacing your air conditioner in your home, you will want to choose an HVAC contractor who has experience with residential installations.
What Does an HVAC Contractor Do?
An HVAC contractor will handle a variety of duties. Here is a look at what this HVAC professional can do for you.
HVAC Maintenance
Most HVAC contractors will start their careers maintaining heating and air conditioning systems. While they will always continue to carry on maintenance tasks, they may move onward to perform other duties as they gain more experience.
HVAC Repair
Once an HVAC contractor gains more experience in the trade, they will generally begin making repairs. They will troubleshoot common issues and find the right solutions. They may need to add more refrigerant, flush out clogged drain lines, repair and replace fans and motors, and so on.
HVAC Installation
The installation of a new HVAC system is a complex task that will require a team of experienced technicians working together. While this is much more complicated in commercial settings, it’s still a huge undertaking in a residential property. The HVAC contractor must ensure everything has been assembled correctly and is done according to building codes.
HVAC Consultation
Contractors for HVAC systems are instrumental in helping you find the right solutions to cool and heat your home efficiently. They will need to inspect your property to provide a detailed plan for replacing your AC unit and make the right recommendations. Since this is such a large investment for your home, you must choose the right contractor for the job.
How Can You Choose the Right HVAC Contractor for Your Home?
You may be in a rush to find an HVAC contractor to replace your aging AC system. However, since it’s such a large investment, you must make sure you do your research first to find the best person to take on this role.
Here’s how to make the right choice for your HVAC contractor.
Make Sure They Are Licensed and Insured
Before you call around town to find an HVAC contractor, look them up online. You will be able to confirm they are licensed and insured, which is essential for ensuring this work is done correctly.
Check Years of Experience
After checking licensing and insurance, check the years of experience your HVAC contractor has. Generally, those who have many years of serving the local area will be adept at performing these services.
Get References and Referrals
When you are narrowing down your list of HVAC contractors, you will want to ask for referrals and references. Perhaps a neighbor has used them in the past and has valuable input about their work. Even if you don’t know anyone who can recommend an HVAC contractor, you can check online and see what other clients have to say.
Be aware that online reviews can be skewed, though. It’s always best to check many different sites for reviews to get a more comprehensive profile on any contractor.
Get a Home Evaluation
When you are looking for an HVAC contractor to install a new AC system, they should come to your home to create a thorough evaluation. Do not agree to work with anyone who simply offers a low price without inspecting your home.
The right HVAC professional will evaluate the best cooling and heating solution for your home based on square footage, insulation, number of windows, and the placement of those windows, among many other factors. They will also create an itemized estimate to show you all the costs, warranties, and energy efficiency of any HVAC system they recommend.
Know That the Lowest Offer May Not Be the Best
It would be great if you could get a new HVAC system installed for a low price. However, this system is a huge investment for your home and is something you will need to rely on for years to come. You can certainly compare estimates, but the right contractor will be the responsive one who answers all your questions with patience and makes you feel comfortable with this process.
If they have the lowest price, too, that’s a bonus, but don’t make the price the sole focus of an air conditioning system install.