Choosing An HVAC Contractor? Use This Checklist To Ensure Proper Installation Procedures

Choosing An HVAC Contractor? Use This Checklist To Ensure Proper Installation Procedures

When it comes to choosing an HVAC contractor, you can’t afford to make a mistake. Whether you are installing new equipment or having an old model serviced, you want to know the job is done completely and correctly the first time.

Quiz your HVAC contractor before you hire them and make sure they will perform all the tasks on this checklist:

• Energy Star-qualified equipment – The Energy Star designation means the product meets Energy Star’s minimum performance and efficiency standards. It is the baseline measure that you should demand.
• Manual J load calculations – Qualified contractors have very specific steps for measuring the amount of heating and cooling power that your home needs. They use these load calculations to properly size your equipment, a key factor in the efficiency of your system.
• Ductwork assessment – The equipment you are having installed or serviced can only work well if your ducts are in good condition and can handle the airflow.
• New refrigerant lines (for A/C systems) – You don’t want to cut corners when it comes to refrigerant lines. It’s not only a big part of your A/C system’s functionality, it is also an environmental hazard if there is a problem.
• Zoning benefits – Your home may or may not benefit from adding additional thermostats and creating multiple comfort zones. A good HVAC contractor will consider the options and explain them to you.
• Verification – Outstanding contractors will put everything they say in writing for you and also provide verification from an outside party for big jobs like new installations. You can also request that they leave copies of any certifications, manuals and signed agreements.

Choosing an HVAC contractor who will perform all of these tasks and more is easy when you contact Air-Tro. We’ve been keeping greater Pasadena comfortable since 1969 because we go above and beyond on every job.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Los Angeles, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about choosing a contractor and other HVAC topics, visit our website.

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