5 Essential Questions to Ask Your HVAC Contractor

As a homeowner, ensuring your heating and air conditioning needs are met is crucial. When considering an HVAC upgrade or repair, asking the right questions can help you find a qualified professional. Here are key inquiries to guide you:

1. Ask for a Heat Load Assessment

Before deciding on the size of your air conditioner, ask your contractor if they perform a heat load assessment on your house. Don’t assume that a 4-ton AC unit is automatically the right fit.

Many contractors rely on rules of thumb or guesswork, which may not yield accurate results. If the unit is too large, it won’t effectively remove humidity. Conversely, if it’s too small, it will run continuously without cooling efficiently.

Darren Yarbrough explains this further in the video below:

2. Ask about your Ductwork Sizing and Condition

Properly sized ductwork is crucial. Air conditioning units are designed to move a specific volume of air, and your ducts must handle that airflow. Here’s what you need to know:

• Too Little Ductwork: Insufficient or undersized ductwork can lead to hot and cold spots in your home. It may also cause your unit to freeze up. When air stays in the coil section for too long, it gradually gets colder, resulting in icing. This premature wear can damage the compressor.
• Too Much Ductwork: Excessive ductwork means the air won’t reach where it’s needed. Instead, it might follow the path of least resistance, favoring rooms closest to the unit. Proper sizing ensures efficient air distribution.
• Ductwork Lifespan: Ductwork does not last forever. Older materials, especially plastic, can deteriorate over time due to UV infiltration in the attic. If your ductwork is falling apart, insulation may come loose, affecting comfort and increasing utility bills.
• Replacement Consideration: Consider getting your ductwork replaced to maintain optimal airflow and energy efficiency. Good ductwork ensures that conditioned air reaches all parts of your home effectively.

3. Ask for Credentials and Reputation

To assess a contractor’s reputation, consider the following:

• Licensing and Insurance: Ask to see their contracting license and certificate of insurance. Verify that they’ve met all necessary requirements for their specific field.
• Permits and Inspections: Inquire if they pull permits for their work. Third-party inspections ensure quality and compliance.
• Storefront Presence: Contractors with a physical storefront are often more reliable than those operating out of makeshift setups. An established presence in the community indicates commitment.
• How Long They’ve Been in Business: Businesses who have served their community for years or even decades are typically more trustworthy than recent startups, since they have had time in their market to prove their quality.
• Online Reviews: Another way to vet your local HVAC contractor is to search their online reviews, which can be displayed on their website (like this page), or on their Google Business Profile.

4. Ask for References from Other Customers

Request references from other customers in your area. Reach out to these clients to learn about their experiences with the contractor. Honest feedback can help you make an informed decision.

5. Ask Questions about Large Upfront Payments

One red flag to watch out for is when a contractor asks for significant upfront payments. A reputable professional should have the means or credit to purchase necessary equipment before installation. If not, we recommend you reconsider your options.

We believe asking these questions ensures a smoother process and helps you find a trustworthy contractor for your home!

About Yarbrough & Sons Heating, Cooling & Plumbing: Yarbrough & Sons has been serving Oklahoma City since 1988, providing top-notch home comfort solutions. With over 450 years of combined experience, our family-owned business is dedicated to quality, comfort, and caring for our community. Trust us for all your HVAC needs.