Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an HVAC Company: Insights from Hess Air

Choosing the right HVAC company is a critical decision that directly impacts your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term costs. With so many options available, how can you ensure you’re selecting a trustworthy and experienced team? Since 1976, Hess Air has been the trusted HVAC professional in Alamo, TX, and surrounding areas, and we know the value of making an informed choice. To help you feel confident in your decision, we’ve compiled the top 10 questions you should ask any HVAC company before hiring them. Let’s dive in and equip you with the tools to choose a provider you can trust. Choosing the Right HVAC Company Your HVAC system plays a pivotal role in your daily life, far beyond just keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It’s responsible for maintaining a comfortable temperature, ensuring proper ventilation, and filtering the air you breathe. A well-functioning HVAC system contributes to a healthy living environment by reducing allergens, controlling humidity, and preventing the growth of mold and mildew. Unfortunately, choosing the wrong HVAC contractor can have dire consequences. Incompetent contractors may cut corners, use substandard materials, or fail to follow proper installation procedures. This can lead to issues, from inefficient operation and frequent breakdowns to safety hazards like carbon monoxide leaks or electrical fires. The Better Business Bureau receives thousands of complaints about HVAC companies yearly, from poor workmanship and overcharging to failure to honor warranties. Approximately 20% of homeowners report having problems with their HVAC systems within the first few years of installation. Many of these issues can be traced to faulty installation or inadequate maintenance. Investing time and effort in selecting the right HVAC company is a wise decision. It can save you from costly headaches, ensure the safety and comfort of your home, and provide you with peace of mind. Top 10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Company Choosing the right HVAC company is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and safety. By asking the following ten essential questions, you can gather the information you need to make an informed choice and avoid costly mistakes. 1. What size AC unit and type do I need for my home? The size of your AC unit is critical for optimal performance. An undersized unit won’t be able to cool your home effectively, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, leading to energy waste and increased wear and tear. The type of AC unit (central air, ductless mini-split, etc.) will depend on your home’s layout, existing infrastructure, and personal preferences. A reputable HVAC contractor will perform a thorough load calculation to determine your home’s correct size and type of AC unit. They should consider factors such as square footage, insulation, number of windows, climate, and ceiling height just name a few. They should also explain the different types of AC units available and help you choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. 2. Are they licensed and insured? This seemingly simple question is crucial to ensuring you’re dealing with a legitimate and responsible HVAC company. A valid license indicates that the contractor has met the minimum requirements for knowledge and expertise in their field. On the other hand, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during installation or repair. The contractor should readily provide proof of their license and insurance. You can verify the license with your state’s licensing board and check the insurance policy for adequate coverage. Be cautious if the contractor hesitates to provide proof of their credentials or offers vague answers. This could indicate that they are operating illegally or lack proper insurance. Working with Hess Air ensures you are always working with a company that is licensed, insured, and has been the experts in the Alamo area for over 49 years. Give us a call anytime at (956)702-4377. 3. What experience and certifications do your technicians have? It is essential to inquire about the experience and certifications of the technicians who will be working on your HVAC system. Certifications, such as those offered by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), demonstrate a technician’s commitment to ongoing learning and adherence to industry standards. Hiring experienced and certified technicians increases the likelihood of a successful and efficient repair or installation. If possible, ask to meet the technician who will be working on your system to get a sense of their professionalism and expertise. 4. What brands and models do they recommend? Different HVAC brands and models offer varying levels of quality, reliability, performance, and features. A knowledgeable contractor will be familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of various brands and can recommend options that align with your needs and budget. A trustworthy contractor will also ask about your priorities (e.g., energy efficiency, quiet operation, smart features) and budget before making recommendations. They should be able to explain the pros and cons of different brands and models, providing you with enough information to make an informed decision. Here at Hess Air, we offer and service a wide variety of options so we can ensure that you find the best fit for your home. We’d love to take care of your home; give us a call at (956)702-4377 to learn more. 5. What is the estimated cost of the unit and installation? The cost of a new HVAC system can vary widely depending on the size of your home, the type and brand of equipment, the complexity of the installation, and your location. Getting a clear and detailed estimate upfront is important to avoid any surprises later on. A reputable contractor will provide a detailed, written estimate that includes the following: Equipment costs: The price of the AC unit itself, including the condenser, air handler, and any additional components like thermostats or zoning systems. Labor costs: The cost of installation, including the technician’s time, any necessary permits, and disposal of old equipment. Material costs: Any additional materials needed for the installation, such