8 Factors You Need to Consider Before Hiring an Air Conditioning Contractor

October 31, 2022

Summer is right around the corner, so it’s time to start thinking about keeping your home cool during the holidays. If your unit is on its last leg, it might be time to consider hiring an air conditioning contractor to install a new one. But how do you go about finding the right contractor for the job? Countless options are vying for our attention online, and they all seem to make the same promises. How can you be sure that you’re making the best decision? This blog post will outline eight key considerations you need to make before hiring an air conditioning contractor.

Table of Contents

1 1: Expect a site evaluation
2 2: Ask for an inspection of your current system
3 3: Get several quotes before making a decision
4 4: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured
5 5: Ask for references and follow them up
6 6: Find out what kind of warranty is on offer
7 7: Are they active in the community?
8 8: Are they available 24/7?
9 Wrapping Up

1: Expect a site evaluation

Before any job begins, the contractor should visit your home or business and thoroughly evaluate the space. They’ll take measurements and look at things like window placement and insulation. This step is crucial because it will help the contractor determine what kind of unit you require, the appropriate size, and how much work will be necessary to install it. Ensuring you receive a recommendation tailored to your unique circumstances will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

2: Ask for an inspection of your current system

The first step is to have the contractor come out and take a look at your current system. They should be able to tell you whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. Be wary if an air conditioning contractor advises you to replace a system without first inspecting it. In most cases, an air conditioning system can be repaired and is usually more cost-effective. If you feel that a contractor is attempting to upsell you and doesn’t fully consider your unit’s circumstances and history, then it might be best to find someone else.

3: Get several quotes before making a decision

When hiring any contractor, receiving several quotations is always a good rule of thumb. Get at least three quotes from different companies before making your final decision. This will give you a good idea of the average cost for the job and allow you to see what each company has to offer. That said, there are better options than the cheapest quote. Quality, customer care, and warranties should all be considered when making your decision.

4: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured

Installing a heating and cooling system isn’t a walk in the park. HVAC contractors face many complex issues, such as electrical wiring and gas lines. The first thing you need to do is make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured. This is important for two reasons. First, it protects you if something goes wrong during installation. You could be liable for damages if the contractor is not licensed or insured. Second, it ensures that the contractor is qualified to do the job. If they’re not licensed, there’s a good chance that they need to gain the proper training and experience to install your air conditioner correctly. In South Australia, all air conditioning installers must hold licences issued by the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC). You can check their licence number here.

5: Ask for references and follow them up

A reputable contractor should have no problem providing references from past clients. Once you have them, take the time to follow up with those references. Ask about their experience working with the contractor and if they were happy with the final product. A more expensive contractor is always worth the investment over a cheaper one if the quality of their work is better.

6: Find out what kind of warranty is on offer

This is an essential question because it will give you peace of mind after the job is done. Most contractors offer a one-year warranty on workmanship, but some might offer more. Unit-specific manufacturer’s warranties are separate from the contractor’s warranty and should also be taken into consideration. Make sure you get all the details in writing before the job begins.

7: Are they active in the community?

It’s always a good sign when a contractor is active in their community. This shows they’re invested in the area and care about their reputation. Giving back is also a good indication that they’re doing well financially, so they’re less likely to take shortcuts on their job. At REQ Refrigeration, we’re proud to sponsor local sports teams and clubs and donate to various charities. We understand that our success is only possible because of the support we receive from our local community, and strive to give back whenever possible.

8: Are they available 24/7?

You never know when your air conditioner is going to break down. That’s why finding a contractor that offers 24/7 support is crucial. This way, you can rest assured knowing help is just a phone call away, no matter what time it is. Our qualified REQ team is always on call to help you with any AC repairs or maintenance needs you may have. We know how difficult it can be to go without AC, especially in the middle of summer, so we’ll do whatever it takes to get your system up and running again.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right air conditioning contractor is an important decision. Take your time, do your research, and ask plenty of questions. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to find a contractor that you can trust to keep your home comfortable all year long. If you need clarification on any of the contractors you’re considering, check their licences with the Australian Refrigeration Council. Always remember that our friendly team at REQ Refrigeration is here to help with all your air conditioning needs. Get in touch with our friendly team today to secure your no-obligation quote and start enjoying cool, comfortable air in your home again!