10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor

  1. Read up – Find out what licenses and insurance requirements are for contractors in your area. Before you contact a contractor for help, be sure to know what model your system is and how it has been maintained. Note any rooms that are uncomfortable. It will help contractors understand your heating requirements.
  2. Ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations — You can ask co-workers, colleagues, or even your friends for contractors. Contact local trade associations for the names of their members.
  3. Call customer references – Ask for references from contractors and then call them. Ask the contractor about their installation or service performance and whether the job was completed within budget and on time.
  4. Find special deals — A heating and cooling unit is one of your largest home purchases. Check for rebates available on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR certified heating and cooling equipment.
  5. Search for ENERGY STAR — ENERGY STAR-qualified products meet the strict energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. They offer significant energy savings over time. Contractors should have the ability to calculate savings on advanced Mechanical Heating & Cooling.
  6. You should expect a home evaluation – The contractor will spend considerable time evaluating your home and current system to determine your needs. Contractors should consider the size of the house, the level of insulation and the number of windows when determining the right size heating and cooling system. A contractor should inspect the ductwork (if applicable) to check for insulation and air leaks, and then measure the airflow.
  7. Request written estimates — Compare cost, energy efficiency, and warranties when comparing contractor proposals. The lowest price is not always the best option if the energy efficiency of the system is not optimal. Your costs will increase.
  8. Sign it with ink — Before work begins, sign a written contract with the contractor. You’ll be protected by a written proposal that includes project costs, model number, schedule, and warranty information.
  9. Share with friends and family. Almost a quarter of households purchased at least one product that qualified last year. 71% of these consumers would recommend ENERGY STAR products to a friend. We can all help by spreading the word.

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