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Important Items For Your HVAC Contractor

So, your home air conditioner is nearing the end. On its last legs. Heading for the A/C junkyard in the sky.

Bummer.

Hopefully this is not totally unexpected, and you have been able to sort of plan for it. Maybe your system is just plain worn out after many years of service. Or maybe the calls to the repairman are mounting. Whatever the reason, you have decided it is time to replace your homes’ HVAC system. As this is a major expense, maybe one of the biggest you will make when it comes to your home, you want to make sure you do your due diligence. You can do this with some research, and making sure that you are prepared to ask the right questions of any HVAC contractor you hire to handle the installation.

That’s where your friends at General Air Conditioning & Plumbing enter the picture. The General’s troops stand ready to not only perform your system replacement – as we have done for thousands of families in the Coachella Valley for decades – but we also want you to be prepared for the process. A good way to do this is to make a list of items to be checked off … let’s call it the Ultimate HVAC Checklist! Here we go:

• BEFORE INSTALLATION

1. Check with the CSLB to make sure the contractor is licensed and has proper insurance and also that they have no complaint or violations.
2. The contractor should perform a system analysis based on your home’s size and other factors in order to determine a load calculation and properly size the new system.
3. All vents and existing ductwork should be inspected to make sure they are in good shape and can handle the new system.
4. Make sure your contractor explains Energy Star ratings and informs you of any local, state or federal rebates or tax incentives—not to mention the guarantees and warranties included with your new system.
5. Thoroughly examine the contractor’s installation estimate and ask them to explain any components you are unsure of or need more info about.
6. Ask about financing options and maintenance plans.

• DURING INSTALLATION

1. Make sure your contractor makes all the recommended ductwork alterations and seals all joints.
2. Did your contractor test air flow rates in all rooms?
3. Did your contractor test the thermostat and replace it if needed?
4. Did your contractor leave your home in better condition that before?
5. Did your contractor pull the proper permits for you?
6. Were your installation technicians professional, courteous and helpful?

• AFTER INSTALLATION

1. Your contractor should contact you to make sure you are 100% satisfied with the work, your system is working properly, and to assist you with any rebate or maintenance paperwork.
2. Make sure they have a third party HERS rater test the system.
3. Make sure service technicians adhere to the proper maintenance plan you scheduled.

Proper installation is crucial and can directly affect your system’s performance, efficiency and lifespan. Be prepared and don’t take any shortcuts. Call the General today for more information on our top-of-the-line Lennox A/C systems, and let us help guide you all the way through the installation process, from start to finish!