Finding Your AC Installer: Tips and Tricks for a Hassle-Free Experience

If you’re in the market for a new AC, you know these systems can get expensive fast.

Costing anywhere from $3,800-$8,000 on average (and can be more), these units are often the single most costly appliances homeowners will ever buy. If you happen to have a larger home, or a 2 -story home, there will likely be more than one unit on the residence.

That’s why incorrect installation can be so frustrating.

If you hire the wrong AC installer to handle your new system, you might be looking at damage to your property, damage to the unit, an incorrectly sized AC, or faulty installation.

Any of these factors can lead to breakdowns, higher energy bills, and further expenses.

In other words, doing your homework before you hire a contractor is an absolute must!

If you’re hoping to avoid the pitfalls of shoddy work while partnering with someone you can trust, here’s what you should know about finding a seasoned expert.

How Do I Find the Right AC Installer?

First off, expect this process to take a little bit of time. You will need to take the time to conduct some research before you find the right hire!

Create a Short List

Start by asking around. Ask friends, family members, coworkers, and neighbors who installed their AC and whether that experience was a good one.

You can supplement this list by checking with local trade organizations or doing a quick online search.

Do a Background Check

With your list in hand, start looking into the backgrounds of the companies you’re considering.

Your goal is to make sure they have the necessary qualifications for the job.

Confirm that they have a physical address, as you don’t want a contractor who operates out of a truck.

Though these workers may be skilled, it can be harder to track them down if problems arise.

Ensure that the contractor has insurance and that they’re a licensed contractor in your state.

If they have any additional industry certifications, consider it a plus.

Check their years of experience as well.

Newer doesn’t mean untalented, but established companies often have more of the experience, skills, and equipment they need on the job.

Read Customer Reviews

When you’re sure the basics are covered, check online testimonials.

Be sure to look at reviews on the company’s site and on third-party review sites.

Are most customers satisfied, or do they report minor gripes and issues?

Get Multiple Quotes

After you’ve narrowed down your options, ask each company for a quote.

Be careful not to go for the lowest price by default. Instead, use the itemized list to see what you’re getting for the price.

How Can I Be Sure of Quality Service?

When you’ve run through all of the tips above to land on an installer you think you can trust, you’ll still want to evaluate their service as the installation process gets started.

To do this, know what to expect:

Communication Skills

Throughout the process, you should feel like there’s an open line of communication between you and the contractor.

They should answer your questions with ease and in a professional way, especially while you’re deciding on the best AC for your home.

If you feel brushed off or can’t get in touch, walk away.

Site Evaluation

The installer should visit your home to take detailed measurements of its size.

They may also inspect the system you’re replacing to make recommendations about the upgrade.

If there are any obstacles around where your outdoor unit will be placed, they may make plans to deal with them.

If they skip this initial visit or ask you for your home’s measurements instead, it’s a red flag!

Installation Prep

Expect the contractor to help you understand how to prepare your home for the installation.

This will involve things like moving furniture away from registers, clearing a path around your thermostat and breaker panel, and cleaning out any obstructions in your equipment room.

This helps them protect your floors, furniture, and other valuables.

They should also walk you through any changes they’ll need to make to your property during the installation.

This may include things like re-leveling the ground beneath your outdoor unit or running extra electrical wires for your indoor unit.

Testing

Once the new AC is in place, your installer will stick around for testing.

Thorough contractors will also run you through the results of these tests so you know what to expect from your new unit.

They should then show you how to run the system at peak efficiency to reduce strain.

Expect them to check the gas pressure, temperature rise, vents, safety devices, accessories like humidifiers, and more.

How Often Does My Home AC Need to Be Serviced?

After your AC installation is complete, you might think you won’t need to do any maintenance for a while.

After all, a brand-new system should run without effort for years, right?

Not so fast! There are plenty of things you can do on your own to keep your system running smoothly, but this DIY maintenance isn’t enough to keep your AC at peak performance.

Worse, it may allow common problems to go undetected.

Industry experts recommend getting professional AC service at least once every year.

(You should get service for your heater once a year as well.)

For details, be sure to check your owner’s manual.

Aim to schedule your annual service for the spring.

This is a good way to ensure that your system is in peak condition before you start making heavy demands on it as temperatures climb.

If you’ve chosen a good installer, consider sticking with them for maintenance to make your experience seamless.

Get More Out of Your New AC

When you’re putting thousands into a new air conditioner, partnering with the right AC installer should be a no-brainer.

Though you’ll have to do some research on the front end to find a reliable contractor, the result is an efficient system that will ensure your comfort for years to come!

If you’re ready to cut down on the research, consider partnering with Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating.

As the trusted source for air conditioning services throughout the Mesa, Chandler, Phoenix, and Scottsdale areas, we have over 30 years of HVAC experience.

To see our top-notch services and fair pricing for yourself, contact us today for a free estimate.

---

Are you searching for HVAC maintenance companies in Gilbert? Look no further!  Our team at Mark Daniels Air Conditioning & Heating offers expert maintenance and replacement services for all your HVAC needs. Call (480) 571-7219 or request service online now!