Upgrading or installing a new HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) System is not a “do it yourself” type of job and can be very confusing. You’ll need help from a fully qualified and licensed HVAC contractor. Here’s the typical process for finding and selecting a qualified professional:

1. Identify and contact several HVAC contractors for an estimate of your project. The Washington State Labor & Industries website offers an easy way to check if they are licensed at:  www.lni.wa.gov/TradesLicensing/Contractors/default.asp

2. Set up appointments with each to visit your home – there should be NO charge to provide an installation estimate. You can probably have several come out in one day to save time off work (but not at the same time!).

3. You receive a written estimate from each contractor detailing the type of work,  unit and the extras that are needed, or you’ve asked to have included in the bid. These might include energy star rated products that qualify for the new energy tax credits, electronic air cleaners, hybrid systems that provide heating and cooling and tankless hot water tanks that save water and energy. Do some Google research of the systems and accessories you’re looking at and get your questions ready to ask (Lennox and Rheem websites offer quite a bit of information on various units for all types of homes).  And don’t forget to check the unit’s Energy Star and Consumer Reports rating.  These systems typically last 20 years, so you’ll want to the best you can afford for your family’s comfort and health.

4. If a contractor submits a bid that is dramatically different from the others, don’t be shy!  And don’t rule them out!  Ask the contractor to explain the difference – they might have noticed something that the other contractors missed.

5. What about HVAC contractors that represent a single brand? Hiring one of these contractors has advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, the contractor has gone through specialized training offered by the manufacturer.  On the minus side they might not be able to offer you the best unit available for your home. Remember to clarify any questions you may have!

Now you’ve made your decision and signed a proposal or contract with your new HVAC contractor – what can you expect next?

1. A knock at the door!  You should be greeted with a smile and technicians ready to work.  Ask questions if you have them!  Find out how long they expect to be there. Will they go over the instructions with you when they are done? Will they have time to explain how to run the thermostat and how to change the filters? Is the breaker marked if they had to install a new one? Get as informed as you need to feel comfortable with the new system.

2. Make sure the area where your technicians will be working is clear and has enough working room. If they need to walk though the house as they are working, ask them to wear boot covers on their shoes – they should have them in their truck (if not already on).

3.  The time they take will depend on the specific project, usually 4-6 hours.  Hopefully you’ve found a reputable and trustworthy HVAC contractor, so leaving the house if you need to for a little while shouldn’t be a worry.

4.  After the work is completed they should clean their work area, and go over the unit they installed to show you how to access the filters, other unit specific information and how to work the thermostat.  Make sure you have a list of questions ready for them about your new system (see above for some ideas).  A few important questions are ”how often should I have my new system serviced?”, “can those filters be cleaned or should I change them out all together?”, “how often should I change the filters and what brand and size do I need?”.  You should find the company sticker on the newly installed unit, so reaching them should be easy.

5.  At this point, you’ll have some paperwork to review and sign and payment to be made - make sure you read carefully and confirm all is as you expected.  You reviewed most of this when you signed the proposal -  final paperwork may include information about the unit warranty and limitations, a statement that the work was done and that the unit is working properly. If you haven’t had a walk through by this time, make sure to ask them to do so! You should get copies of the paperwork and manuals for the new unit.

Lastly, you should also ask if they have a Service Agreement program – this can save you money on maintaining your new HVAC unit and will likely make you a priority customer.

With the contractor gone and your questions answered, you and your family can sit back and relax in the comfort of your new HVAC system. Enjoy!