There are two major influences on getting the best heating and cooling system to fit your needs:
Know what to ask the contractor. Because heating or cooling purchases are infrequent, you may not be aware of the various product solutions that are available to correct common indoor comfort problems. If you do not speak up, the contractor may assume you are not interested in saving energy, lowering utility costs, or correcting hot and cold spots in your home. Check out our tips on what questions to ask.
Select a skilled contractor. When it comes to central heating and cooling, product performance and reliability greatly depend on the contractor's ability to design and install a system compatible for your home.
Here's how to make sure you are selecting the right dealer for your new heating and cooling system. An appropriately sized system that is also installed correctly is critical to performance and your happiness.
Check to see if the dealer possesses all of the appropriate licensing for installing HVAC equipment in your state and local area.
Ask how long they have been in business and if they offer 24/7 service, financing or accept credit cards.
A dealer coming into your home should do more than just inspect your existing system. Follow the dealer around to see if he or she is checking air flow, inspecting the duct system, making note of the windows and the direction your home faces, etc.
Be wary of anyone who quotes you a price on the back of a business card after being in your home for a few minutes, or even over the phone.
A knowledgeable dealer that has your best interest in mind will ask about your experiences in the home -- how long you have lived there, how long you plan to stay, if you have pets, allergies, smokers, hot and cold spots and noise.
A dealer with the tools to address these problems will offer viable solutions such as air cleaners, zoning equipment, programmable thermostats, humidifiers, variable speed and two-stage technology. If they do not offer these solutions, they may not be the right dealer for you.
It takes more time to complete an installation when done correctly. Expect to pay more for comprehensive service, but much less in the long run for your system's performance and maintenance.
Typically, manufacturer warranties cover the replacement of faulty components for a limited time. Failure due to poor installation is typically not warranted by manufacturers. Select a dealer who will do a good job the first time and be around to assist you as needed.
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) suggests this worksheet to evaluate a potential contractor.
What to Expect
What you can expect from your contractor.
Here are the things you can expect a qualified heating and cooling dealer to address when you are purchasing a new system:
Selecting the type of system and equipment (plus operating and safety controls) that are compatible with the architecture of your home, fuel availability, fuel costs, the space available for equipment and duct runs, appearance issues and project cost.
Calculating energy savings with a new system. You may find that investing in a new energy-efficient system with yield monthly savings greater than money earned on a CD investment or savings account.
Performing load or sizing calculations for each room and the load on the central unit(s). New homes are better insulated and do not have the same capacity requirements as older homes. Over-sizing a unit can contribute to uncomfortable temperatures and inefficient performance.
Using the proper industry manual procedures and manufacturer's data to select, size and place equipment, supply outlets, ducts and returns.
Disposing of old equipment.
Installing to local, state and federal codes and utility regulations.
Installing the indoor and outdoor equipment. A split system is the most common installation.
