Central air installation is a significant part of any new home construction project. Renovating an existing home to support a central air conditioner can potentially be even more expensive. With HVAC installation costs being so significant, getting an accurate and fair quote is crucial to keeping your project within budget. While you should rely on the information that contractors provide you, understanding the general details of most installation projects will help you to understand better the quotes that you receive. Keep these tips in mind as you speak with installers so that you can ask the right questions and get the best quotes possible.
Don't Rely On Early Quotes
There's nothing wrong with interviewing and vetting contractors early in the process, but don't rely on quotes that you receive if your home is still in its early planning phase. Properly sizing an AC system requires studying the potential heat load of a home, and this often isn't possible while many decisions remain unfinalized. For example, large windows can impact the amount of cooling required, as can the type of windows used and the level of insulation. Treat early quotes as rough estimates only and do not base your budget on them.
Always Schedule An In-Person Visit
Even if your home is still under construction, don't commit to working with a contractor until you've met them in person. Not only does this help to ensure that your communication styles mesh, but it also allows you to ask a variety of questions without feeling rushed for time. If you are retrofitting an air conditioning system into an existing home, then you shouldn't accept any quotes until a contractor has toured and inspected your home. For new construction, expect your HVAC installer to view your home's plans before committing to an installation quote.
Scrutinize Equipment Decisions
Experienced contractors know to size an AC system correctly, but this doesn't mean that you shouldn't ask for clarification on their decisions. Be sure that you understand duct routing, vent placement, and condenser selection. All of these installation decisions will affect your final quote, and questioning your contractor about their choices can help to provide you with some insight into their design and installation process. Now is also the time to discuss changes to the system, such as adding zones or increasing the number of vents located in the home.
Most importantly, remember to discuss the details of each quote that you receive. Most installers are happy to speak at length about their labor and equipment costs. By exploring and understanding the decisions that have gone into each quote that you receive, you will be better able to choose the contractor that aligns with your goals and your budget.
For more information, contact a company like Carrano Air Contracting Inc today.
