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Tips for Hiring a Cooling Contractor

10 Tips for Hiring a Cooling Contractor

When the time comes to call a cooling contractor, make sure you choose a trained, full-time professional. In addition to installing the new air conditioning unit correctly, a knowledgeable contractor will be able to advise you on what size unit is needed and what efficiency will best suit your house.

1. Make a list of contractors in your area. Study up — Find out about license and insurance requirements for contractors in your state. And before you call a contractor, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history.  Also make note of any uncomfortable rooms. This will help potential contractors better understand your heating needs.

2. Ask for referrals — Ask friends, neighbors, and co-workers for contractor referrals. You can also contact local trade organizations for names of members in your area. One of the easiest ways to find a qualified contractor is to choose one that is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association (PHCC).

3. Call references — Ask contractors for customer references and call them. Contact those people and ask their opinion of the contractor’s work. Ask about the contractor’s installation or service performance, and if the job was completed on time and within budget.

4. Find special offers — A cooling system is one of the largest purchases you’ll make as a homeowner. Keep your costs down by checking around for available rebates on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment. Begin your search at www.energystar.gov.

5. Look for ENERGY STAR — ENERGY STAR qualified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and offer significant long-term energy savings. Contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for ENERGY STAR heating and cooling equipment.

6. Expect a home evaluation — The contractor should spend significant time inspecting your current system and home to assess your needs. A bigger system isn’t always better; a contractor should size the cooling system based on the size of your house, level of insulation, and windows. A good contractor will inspect your duct system (if applicable) for air leaks and insulation and measure airflow to make sure it meets manufacturers specifications.

7. Get written, itemized estimates — When comparing contractors’ proposals (bids), be sure to compare cost, energy efficiency and warranties. A lowest price may not be the best deal if it’s not the most efficient because your energy costs will be higher.

8. Get it in ink — To get an idea of the overall cost, ask for an estimate. Remember, however, that choosing a contractor should be based on more than just the lowest estimate. Quality of work counts too. Sign a written proposal with a contractor before work gets started. It’ll protect you by specifying project costs, model numbers, job schedule and warranty information.

9. Check into building permits. Most localities require a building permit for large home improvement projects. Contact your local licensing or permit department to see if you need one for your project. Make this call before the work begins.

10. Look into service agreements. Many contractors also offer service agreements that provide periodic check-ups of your plumbing, heating or cooling system. They are usually offered at a reasonable cost, especially compared with the cost of a major emergency that periodic inspections can avoid.