Although an air conditioning contractor is only in your home momentarily, their work will affect the quality and comfort of your home for a long time. When considering a contractor for A/C installation, narrow down the ones who are reliable, knowledgeable, and honest about the work involved. To do this successfully, there are five basic questions you should ask.

Do They Have a License?

Licensed HVAC contractors must have at least 5 years of work training experience before they can start working independently. This includes knowledge of electrical wiring, ventilation, and exhaust systems. In other words, their license assures their capability of keeping your home safe and comfortable. Having a license also means they’re insured in case of accidents or injury on the job.

Who Are Their References?

Getting in touch with recent customers can give you valuable insight about the contractor’s work. Ask how satisfied they were with the job, how long the A/C installation took, and other relevant questions to your case. You can also ask friends and family about which contractors they’ve enjoyed working with.

Which Manufacturers Do They Install For?

Finding out which brands an air conditioning contractor works with can reveal two things: the price point they’re selling the A/C unit compared to similar ones in the market, and the potential seasonal operating costs. There’s no sense in paying more for the same kind of unit as the one you already have. This requires a little more research on your end, but it may make a big difference when it comes to your bills.

What Is Their Estimate & How Did They Determine It?

Getting estimates from multiple contractors is a smart move. You can compare prices and observe how each contractor arrived to their conclusion. A solid HVAC contractor would be looking at the big picture rather than just the unit itself. This includes getting a layout of the house: where the windows face, if the house gets a lot of shade, figuring out how new/old the insulation is, and so forth. Prices will vary, but if you’re working with a budget, it helps to see the range. If one contractor has a higher estimate than the others, they may have accounted for something the others missed—it never hurts to ask why.

Do You Trust Them?

There’s no point in hiring an air conditioning contractor you don’t feel good about. Regardless of their level of expertise or price point, your comfort and safety is most important. Gauge how comfortable you are with the contractor in your home and then, make your next move.

 

With 20 years of experience under their belt, Passanisi Heating & Cooling Services has kept residents of Lorain County cool, comfortable, and 100% satisfied. Find out about their other services on their website, or call them at (440) 984-2322 if you’re facing a crisis — they’re available 24/7. You can also like them on Facebook for advice, reviews, announcements, and other updates.