Installing a new furnace is a big investment. As such, hiring the right heating contractor is as important as selecting the furnace itself. Your comfort, energy bills, and peace of mind depend on this crucial decision. Follow these 10 steps to ensure you find a reputable home heating contractor who will do the job right the first time around.
1.
Understand Your Heating Needs
Understand Your Heating NeedsBefore you even start looking for a contractor, it’s essential to understand your heating requirements. Consider the size of your space, your current heating system, and what you’re looking for in a new furnace. If efficiency is important to you, ask potential installers about their supply of Energy Star-qualified products. If a certain fuel is a must—such as natural gas, oil, propane, or electricity—bring this up to make sure the contractor can accommodate you. And if you’re unsure about what you need, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for advice on the best furnace for your home.
2. Look into Licensing, Bonding & Insurance
When selecting a home heating contractor, verify their license number online. A licensed contractor adheres to industry standards and state requirements, ensuring they are qualified for the job. Besides licensing, check if the contractor is bonded and insured, which protects you from liability in case of accidents or injuries during installation. Certifications from reputable organizations, such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE), further attest to the contractor’s expertise and commitment to quality.
3. Learn About the Company’s Experience
The number of years a heating contractor has been in business is a significant factor in predicting how smoothly your furnace installation will go. Experienced contractors often boast a seasoned workforce and only add well-trained, background-checked technicians to the team. This means anyone you work with will have experience handling various heating systems and potential challenges that might arise during installation. Such a track record speaks volumes about the contractor’s ability to deliver consistent, quality service.
4. Seek References and Reviews
Word of mouth and customer reviews can be incredibly informative. Ask your friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations based on prior furnace installations they’ve had.
Then, check online reviews and ratings, both on the contractor’s site and third-party websites. A perfect five-star record may not be necessary, but pay attention to how the company handles negative feedback. Do they ignore it or attempt to set things right?
A reputable contractor should also be able to provide references upon request. You can contact these past customers personally to ask specific questions about what their experience was like.
5. Look into Maintenance and Repair Services
For an efficient, long-lasting furnace, choose a contractor that not only installs HVAC systems but also provides furnace repair and maintenance. A contractor familiar with your installation can offer more efficient and tailored maintenance services. Consider signing up for a service contract upon installation to protect your investment from day one. On top of two safety checks and tune-ups per year, you’ll maximize your savings with discounted parts and labor and free diagnostic testing.
6. Explore the Warranty Coverage
When choosing a home heating contractor, pay close attention to the warranty. You want coverage against product defects and poor workmanship to ensure any unexpected issues are resolved without additional costs to you. Good warranty coverage is a sign of a contractor’s confidence in their work and the quality of the products they use.
7. Compare Estimates
Once you narrow down your options to two or three candidates, get a furnace installation bid from each company. This helps you understand market rates and offers insight into the services different contractors provide. Just remember, price shouldn’t be the only factor. While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, quality and reliability are also crucial. The lowest bid might lead to subpar work, frequent repairs, and a shorter furnace lifespan. Invest in a contractor who offers a fair price for quality work.
8. Keep Costs Low
If you’re concerned about the cost, rest assured that you can save on furnace installation without sacrificing quality. First, discuss financing options and payment plans with your HVAC contractor. Many companies offer flexible payment options to make the installation more affordable. Also, explore available utility rebates and government tax credits for energy-efficient furnaces. These incentives lower the upfront cost and help your investment pay for itself more quickly.
9. Insist on a Home Evaluation
Reliable furnace installation contractors always start with a thorough home evaluation. This step is vital for determining the proper size and type of furnace you need. The technician should consider other factors beyond your home’s size, including insulation quality, air infiltration rates, window placement, and occupancy levels, just to name a few. Avoid contractors who suggest a furnace size based solely on your home’s square footage or who skip the evaluation altogether.
10. Get Everything in Writing
From cost estimates to the project timeline, ensure all aspects of your furnace installation are well-documented before the work begins. The contract should specify the furnace make and model, the installation process, warranty coverage, any included maintenance services, and rebate information. Clear documentation helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures both parties are on the same page.
Why Choose First Response Heating & Cooling?
As you go about selecting a home heating contractor, we invite you to consider First Response Heating & Cooling for the job. We’ve been a trusted, locally owned family business since 1978, providing over 40 years of excellence in furnace installation and repair. Our team delivers heating solutions backed by outstanding warranties and maintenance plans for your peace of mind. We offer free estimates and second opinions on installation projects, helping you make your decision with confidence. If you’re in Harford, Baltimore, or Cecil County, please contact us at 866-557-0089 for the reliable and efficient HVAC services you deserve.
