5 Questions You Should Ask an HVAC Company Before Hiring Them

Finding a trustworthy HVAC contractor in Wilmington, NC, can be a tricky business. The best approach is to interview any contractor you consider partnering with before you commission the work. A few key questions will reveal important information about whether this is someone you can work with. It can also save you a lot of money and aggravation later on.

1. Do You Perform a Manual J Load Calculation on New Installations?

If the answer is no, look for HVAC services elsewhere. The only way to properly size a new HVAC unit is with a Manual J load calculation prior to installation. A unit that’s not properly sized won’t be able to keep you comfortable. Instead, it will overwork, gobble energy and have a short service life due to chronic wear and tear.

Some HVAC contractors will install a new unit based on the size of your existing unit. That’s an unreliable way to size a unit. Without first performing a Manual J, there’s no way to determine whether a same-sized system is still the right-sized system.

Conditions that affect HVAC sizing can shift significantly over the years. Additionally, your existing system might be improperly sized. With a purchase this important, it’s best not to take chances.

2. Do You Offer an HVAC Maintenance Program?

If you want optimal HVAC performance, annual equipment tune-ups are a must. Maintenance restores your equipment to a like-new condition. It can prevent up to 95 percent of breakdowns and reduce energy costs by up to 40 percent. Most HVAC system warranties require annual equipment servicing to remain valid.

Since tune-ups are essential anyway, why not choose a company that offers a maintenance plan? Membership benefits can include perks like preferential service in emergencies. Additionally, a good contractor will notify you when it’s time to perform maintenance to avoid invalidating your warranty.

3. What Are the Latest HVAC Technologies?

How a contractor answers this question will tell you a great deal about that contractor’s expertise. Is the contractor on top of industry developments and installing the latest HVAC product offerings? Only a knowledgeable contractor can help you select the best possible system, so choose your contractor wisely.

Ask about ductless systems and what you can do with the latest thermostats and controls. Inquire about zoned systems and whether they save money while improving comfort. Learn about variable speed compressors, modulating furnaces and multi-speed blowers. Those high-efficiency features can take indoor comfort to a whole new level.

4. Do You Offer Installation Incentives?

Some manufacturers offer rebates to those who purchase their products. These discounts are sometimes referred to as dealer specials, and they can slash installation costs considerably. Find out whether the contractor is aware of these savings and installs products that qualify.

Residential energy efficiency tax credits have been extended through the end of 2021. With these benefits, the government will give you money to make your home more energy-efficient. Energy-efficient incentives are also available from state and local governments, as well as from utility service providers.

5. How Long Will My HVAC Installation Take?

Many homeowners forget to ask this pivotal question and are caught unprepared once work is underway. Most HVAC installations take anywhere from a few hours to one week. The timeline depends on the type of system that’s being installed and the current infrastructure of your home.

Ask the contractor to provide an estimate of how long the job will take and what will be involved in the work. Installations can be disruptive, but a good contractor can keep disturbances both inside and outside to a minimum.

At Airmax Heating & Cooling, we have high standards when it comes to providing HVAC services. To learn more about our heating and air conditioning services in Wilmington, NC, visit our website or call us today. As a Trane Comfort Specialist dealer, we’ve been serving our residential and commercial customers since 2001. We’re ready to help you and your family and put your comfort first.