12 Questions to Ask Your AC Installer
The big day has finally arrived, and all that research is about to pay off. You’re getting a modern, energy-efficient air conditioner that will keep your Dallas, TX, home cool and comfortable for many years to come. There are still steps to take to ensure that you’re getting the value and reliability you deserve. Let’s explore a series of questions that the experts recommend you ask during your AC installation.
1. Proof of Insurance, Licensing, and Certification
Homeowners should ask for proof of insurance to avoid being liable for any injuries or mishaps that may occur during the job. Additionally, it’s crucial to request and verify the company’s licensing from the state and certifications from reputable organizations such as NATE. Our company proudly meets all these requirements, ensuring a safe, professional, and high-quality service for your home.
2. How Long Will Installation Take?
Most AC installations take less than a day. The usual exception is when new ductwork is installed. Ask your installer for a time estimate so that you know what to expect. Depending on the current weather, you may want to wait at the home of a neighbor, friend, or family member. Let the technician know your intentions and ask whether they foresee any problems with that. You should also provide the technician with contact information so that they can reach you in the event of a problem.
3. Are There Rebates and Tax Credits Available?
You may have already discussed tax credits and rebates during the estimate process, but it’s a good idea to ask again. There may have been new manufacturer offers made available since your last discussion. Local electric companies offer rebates too, and local HVAC companies are often the first to receive that new information. There may be changes at the federal level as well. Consider the HEEHRA rebate. While it’s a federal rebate, the states distribute it, and availability dates vary from state to state.
4. What Does AC Warranty Cover and Require?
Ask the installer what the warranty covers, for how long it is valid, and whether there is extended coverage available. Ask the installer if they’ll adhere to the manufacturer’s warranty specifications and requirements. Ask what your responsibilities are, including regular maintenance, to keep the coverage valid. You should also ask about any labor warranties that the company provides above and beyond the product warranty.
5. Will the Installer Perform a Follow-Up Inspection?
After the installation, the master installer will perform a final inspection prior to a walkthrough with you. Many states require a permit for installation. That means that a city inspector will come out either that day or the next to sign off on the installation. It’s not uncommon for an installer to return to the home after about 30 days to inspect the system again. You should ask the installer if you need to schedule that appointment or whether the company will contact you.
6. How Can You Reduce Your Operating Costs Going Forward?
Ask your installer how you can optimize the efficiency of your HVAC system in the months and years ahead. You should know when to schedule seasonal maintenance and how often you can expect to swap out the filter. If you’re having a heat pump rather than an AC installed, ask about smart thermostat scheduling. It’s not always recommended, depending on the system.
7. How Is the Electrical Panel?
Many master HVAC installers are also electricians. Even those who aren’t are still knowledgeable of the subject. During the installation, they’ll interact with your electrical panel to power the new system. It doesn’t hurt to ask them if they noticed any issues. If they did, then you should schedule a more formal inspection with an electrical contractor soon.
8. What’s the Condition of the Ductwork?
If you’re replacing a central AC unit, you’ll more than likely reuse your existing ductwork. It’s a good idea toward the end of the project to ask for your technician’s assessment. Know that this won’t be a comprehensive evaluation unless there is a camera inspection involved. You can learn about any potential problems with insulation, seals, mounting equipment, and dust accumulation.
9. Which HVAC Filters Does This AC Support?
All central AC systems will have one or more supply vents that require an HVAC filter. That filter protects your HVAC equipment and helps improve indoor air quality (IAQ). If it isn’t clear how you change the filter, be sure to ask about that process. You should ask about the filter size and anything else you should know about purchasing replacement filters. Ask about the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) as well. MERV is a scale that the heating and cooling industry uses to rate air filters. The higher the MERV, the better the filtration. That said, it’s important not to use a MERV-rated filter that is higher than your system supports. That will cause a higher electricity bill and, eventually, increased wear and tear on your system.
10. Is the Perimeter Around the Condenser Unit Alright?
Most central AC systems are split systems. This means that they have indoor and outdoor equipment. The outdoor unit, also called the condenser unit, houses the refrigerant system and the condenser pump, coil, and fan. The industry recommendation is to maintain a 1.5- to 2-foot perimeter around it. This is an area free of grass, bushes, overhanging branches, and so forth. Ask your installer if there’s anything additional you can do to the perimeter to keep your condenser unit clean.
11. How Is the Air Balancing?
Air balancing is a process through which an HVAC technician ensures that airflow is optimal throughout an entire system. This is a crucial installation step, but one that less-reputable installers may skip. You can ensure that your installer has taken this step by asking for the relevant information. The installer will have adjusted the blower to provide the total cubic feet per minute (CFM) needed. Your installer will also know the target CFM for each room in the home.
12. How Do You Use the Thermostat?
It’s common to have a new smart thermostat installed alongside your new AC. Even if you keep your old thermostat, it may behave differently, or perhaps there are things you didn’t know about it. A good installer will take the time to show you how to use the unit. That includes programming it and putting it into its test mode. If your installer doesn’t offer this information, be sure to ask for it during the walkthrough.
Your Local AC Installation Pros in Dallas
If you need a new AC unit installed, Precision Heating & Air is here to help. We’ve been installing AC equipment in Dallas and throughout the Metro Atlanta area for over 30 years. Our team also installs and services gas furnaces, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits. We install and program smart thermostats as well. Our company has an IAQ team that specializes in duct cleaning, air purifiers, ventilators, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers. We also install and service generators, tanked, and tankless water heaters. If you have any questions about these services or would like to schedule an appointment, call today, or contact us online.
