Finding the right HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) contractor can be a daunting task, especially if you have never hired one before. It is important to choose a contractor who is skilled, reliable, and trustworthy, as they will be responsible for maintaining the comfort and safety of your home or business. Here are 15 ways to help you find the right contractor:

1. Check credentials: Before making your choice, research reputable review sites to get an accurate idea of contractor reliability.
2. Ask for references: Current customers are an excellent source of information and are often willing to share their experience.
3. Check local licenses: Ask to see any applicable state and local licenses.
4. Get a detailed proposal: Beware of a dealer that does not back-up their offer in a detailed written proposal. A detailed proposal is one sign of a quality contractor.
5. Heat loss-heat gain calculation: Expect a thorough calculation performed with an on-site evaluation. A good contractor should measure your home, check insulation factors and evaluate your overall comfort needs.
6. Equipment/labor warranties and guarantees: Warranties and guarantees vary according to manufacturer and dealer, don’t be afraid to ask questions and demand that they are included in the written estimate.
7. Follow contract law: Demand that your contractor follows contract law. A new comfort system is a big decision and with big decisions comes responsibility.
8. Ask your contractor about the maintenance requirements of your new system: What can you do yourself and/or does the contractor offer maintenance services. A maintenance agreement is one of the best ways to ensure your system’s performance, reliability and safety.
9. Know and understand the contract: Beware of ambiguous contracts and again, ask lots of questions. It is very important to understand all aspects of the agreement with your contractor before any work begins.
10. Get more than one estimate or reference: If you are uncomfortable making your decision for any reason, get two or three estimates or references and compare. More information is better than less; however, compare more than just price when evaluating estimates. Look for the best value!
11. How long has the company been in business? Proven experience is best. You want to invest with a company that will be around tomorrow should you need further assistance with your home’s new system; everything from warranty repairs to coming back for a tune-up to get your comfort just right.
12. Industry certified technicians: It is important to ask how many industry-certified technicians are employed. Do they have enough to serve you in an after-hours situation?
13. Employee licensing: Are the sales reps listed on the contractor’s license and approved for in home sales as required by state law? 14. Trust Certified Employees: Does the company Trust Certify its employees with extensive background checks and drug testing?
14. Know your EPA guidelines: Does the company follow EPA guidelines for reclaiming refrigerants, and are they certified to do so?
15. Make sure they have an office: Have you seen a picture of the company’s place of business?