How to Choose an HVAC Contractor: 15 Questions to Ask

Why Choosing the Right Contractor Matters

Your HVAC system is a major investment - $5,000 to $20,000+ for installation. The difference between a great contractor and a poor one can mean:

• Equipment lasting 20 years vs. 10 years
• Proper efficiency vs. high energy bills
• Safe installation vs. potential hazards
• Warranty validity vs. voided coverage

Before You Call: Red Flags to Avoid

Don't Hire Anyone Who:

• Shows up uninvited offering to "check your system"
• Quotes without seeing your home
• Pressures you to decide immediately
• Only accepts cash
• Can't provide license number upfront
• Has no physical business address

Questions About Credentials

1. "What is your contractor license number?"

Why It Matters: California requires HVAC contractors to hold a valid C-20 license.

What to Do: Verify at cslb.ca.gov (Contractors State License Board)

Red Flag: Can't provide number or tells you it's "not necessary"

2. "Are you insured?"

Why It Matters: Without insurance, you're liable for injuries on your property.

Ask For:

• General liability insurance ($1M minimum)
• Workers' compensation insurance
• Certificate of insurance

Red Flag: "We're careful, we don't need it"

3. "Who will actually do the work?"

Why It Matters: Some companies subcontract work to unknown installers.

Good Answer: "Our own employees" or identifies the specific subcontractor

Red Flag: "Whoever's available"

Questions About Experience

4. "How long have you been in business?"

Why It Matters: HVAC experience matters, especially for complex systems.

Good Answer: 5+ years under current business name

Follow Up: Ask about the technician's personal experience, not just company history

5. "Have you installed this type of system before?"

Why It Matters: Heat pumps, mini-splits, and zoning systems require specific expertise.

Good Answer: Provides specific examples and can explain nuances

Red Flag: "Sure, they're all basically the same"

6. "Can you provide references?"

Why It Matters: Past performance predicts future performance.

What to Do: Actually call the references

Ask References:

• Was work completed on time and budget?
• How was communication?
• Any problems after installation?
• Would you hire them again?

Questions About the Quote

7. "Will you do a load calculation?"

Why It Matters: Proper sizing requires Manual J calculation, not just "matching what you have."

Good Answer: "Yes, we'll measure your home and calculate heating/cooling loads"

Red Flag: "I can tell what you need just by looking"

8. "What brand do you recommend and why?"

Why It Matters: Good contractors explain options, not just push one brand.

Good Answer: Explains pros/cons of 2-3 options appropriate for your home

Red Flag: Only pushes one brand (they may be "locked in" with manufacturer)

9. "What's included in the quote?"

Must Include:

• Equipment (model numbers specified)
• All labor and materials
• Permits and inspections
• Warranty terms
• Disposal of old equipment
• Thermostat (if needed)

Red Flag: Vague descriptions without model numbers

10. "Is this quote in writing?"

Why It Matters: Verbal quotes are unenforceable.

Good Answer: Provides detailed written quote valid for 30+ days

Red Flag: Refuses to put numbers in writing

Questions About Installation

11. "Will you pull permits?"

Why It Matters: Permits ensure code compliance and protect you.

Good Answer: "Yes, we handle all permits and inspections"

Red Flag: "You don't need a permit" or "We can skip that to save money"

12. "How long will installation take?"

Why It Matters: Sets expectations and reveals if they're rushing.

Typical Timeframes:

• AC replacement: 4-8 hours
• Furnace replacement: 4-8 hours
• Full system: 1-2 days
• Mini-split: 1 day per zone

13. "What happens if there are unexpected issues?"

Why It Matters: Old homes often have surprises.

Good Answer: Explains how change orders work, gets approval before extra charges

Red Flag: "We'll figure it out" (often means surprise bills)

Questions About Warranty & Service

14. "What warranties apply?"

Types of Warranty:

• Manufacturer warranty (typically 5-10 years on parts)
• Labor warranty (varies by contractor, ask!)
• Extended warranty options

Good Answer: Explains both manufacturer and their own labor warranty

Red Flag: "Just the standard warranty" (what does that mean?)

15. "Do you offer maintenance plans?"

Why It Matters: Regular maintenance extends system life and often required for warranty.

Good Answer: Explains maintenance program options and benefits

Bonus: Some contractors include first year of maintenance with installation

Getting Multiple Quotes

How Many?

Get at least 3 quotes for major work.

Comparing Quotes

• Ensure same equipment level (don't compare premium to budget)
• Check that all include same items
• Verify all are properly licensed and insured

Lowest Price Isn't Always Best

The lowest quote may mean:

• Cutting corners on installation
• Using lesser quality equipment
• Unlicensed or uninsured
• No labor warranty

Our Promise

We're happy to answer all 15 of these questions - and any others you have. Quality contractors welcome informed customers because we know our work speaks for itself.