What to look for
- The HVAC license your state or city requires
- Technicians certified to handle refrigerant
- Clear pricing for the diagnostic visit and the repair
- For replacements, a sizing calculation for your home
- Written warranties on equipment and labor
Questions to ask before you hire
- What does the diagnostic visit cost, and is it credited toward the repair?
- Is this repair worth it on a system this age?
- For a new system, how did you size it?
- What's included: thermostat, permit, haul-away?
- What are the equipment and labor warranties?
Getting and comparing quotes
For repairs, ask for the diagnosis and the price in writing before you approve the work. For replacements, compare quotes line by line: system size, efficiency rating, brand and model, warranty and what's included.
Red flags
- Recommends a new system without inspecting the old one
- Quotes a new system size without measuring
- Won't put the price in writing
- Offers refrigerant top-offs year after year without finding the leak