When it comes to life’s major purchases, most of us are looking for ways to make both a quality purchase and a good deal. When you’re in the market for larger home purchases like furniture, appliances, and HVAC systems, it’s important to shop around. This helps you get a better sense of the general cost of the item you’re looking for — and it also may help you find the right company for the right price.
If you’re dealing with HVAC issues, it may be time to replace your system. You may have a trusted company you’ve used for years, but if not, you should call a few companies to source quotes and help you make a smart decision about your heating and cooling upgrade.
How can you tell if it’s time to start shopping for a new HVAC unit? If you experience higher energy bills, face frequent repairs, or deal with a system that always runs or makes a lot of noise, it might be time to gather quotes. Most HVAC units on the market today last about 10-15 years, so keep the age of your unit in mind, too.
How Many HVAC Replacement Quotes Should I Get?
There is no one right answer to this question, but most experts recommend receiving at least three quotes. Replacing an HVAC unit is a considerable expense, and it’s helpful to be able to compare total cost, as well as what’s included in each company’s estimate.
Most companies will come to your home to assess your current system and provide a free HVAC estimate for your potential replacement. Make sure you receive comparable quotes from each company. When you look over your quotes, it’ll be much easier to make a decision when comparing units that are the same size and come with similar efficiency ratings and accessories.
Scheduling time for three or more service providers to visit your home for an estimate takes time, so you’ll need to exercise patience. This process is well worth it because choosing the right HVAC company matters.
If you want to secure the best deal, consider gathering quotes during the spring or fall months. Summer and winter require HVAC units to work their hardest, which keeps HVAC companies busy. This can result in longer wait times or higher pricing.
Go ahead and schedule estimates if you’re considering an upgrade or experiencing problems with your current HVAC system. If you wait until you’re entirely without heating and cooling, you may not have time to gather multiple quotes before a remedy is required.
What to Expect at Your HVAC Estimate
When an HVAC professional arrives at your home, be sure to fill them in on any issues or concerns you have about your current unit. After chatting with you, they should perform a full inspection of your unit, including the indoor and outdoor components. They may also check your line set or thermostat.
After the inspection is complete, your technician may stay onsite to write up a custom quote and discuss their findings and recommendations. In other cases, they may email you a quote after their visit and call you to discuss further.
Questions to Ask Your HVAC Technician
As you look over the HVAC replacement quotes you’ve received, you may want to ask some additional questions about the companies you’re deciding between. Here are a few things to consider:
- Are you a licensed and insured HVAC contractor?
- Will I incur any costs during replacement that this quote does not cover?
- Are you a certified installer of the HVAC system you carry?
- What is included in this quote? (Services can vary between companies.)
- Can you explain my labor and parts warranties to me?
Don’t be afraid to contact your service providers after your free HVAC estimate to ask follow-up questions. Most professionals are happy to answer any questions you may have, share their expertise, and try to earn your business.
Atlanta HVAC Professionals You Can Trust
If you’re looking for an HVAC replacement in the Atlanta area, give Comfort Solutions Heating and Cooling a call. Our experienced team members can guide you toward the best decision for your home’s heating and cooling needs. We always provide free HVAC estimates, and we’d be happy to answer any questions and make sure you understand every aspect of your quote.
Our experienced technicians can even help you decide if you need an HVAC replacement or repair! We provide free on-site assessments for homeowners, business owners, and property managers, helping you determine your best course of action. We pledge to give you honest, thorough assessments of your Heating and Air Systems and help you make the best decision, keeping both cost and quality in mind.