How do you choose the right contractor?

 Whether you want to schedule an annual equipment maintenance check-up or you’ve decided that you need to purchase and have new heating or cooling equipment installed, you will need to hire a contractor.
 The following sections will help you find the right contractor, get quality and value from the contractor and your new equipment, and get a signed agreement on the work to be done. Many of the following recommendations also apply if you choose to work with a contractor to make other home improvements such as home sealing or duct work.

 A reputable contractor should:
Perform an on-site inspection of the job you want done and provide a detailed bid in a timely manner.
Demonstrate to you that they are licensed and insured to repair or install heating and cooling equipment (many states require this). Be able to provide their certification for refrigerant handling, required since 1992, Have several years of experience as a business in your community. Provide examples of quality installation of energy-efficient heating and/or cooling equipment work, with names of customers that you can contract.
Complete and submit the warranty information card on your behalf.