Air Conditioner Installation

Air Conditioner, Furnace and Heat Pump Installation in Washington, D.C.

Choosing an air conditioner, furnace or heat pump replacement company isn’t an easy decision. Your HVAC system is likely the most expensive appliance in your home. Other than roof replacements or large home remodeling projects, having a new HVAC system (or two) installed is about as expensive as a home project can get.

Making an informed decision is hugely important given the amount of money you’re likely to spend. Getting a good price on a reliable system you know will work for decades to come is vital. Having dozens of HVAC companies to choose from in a large metro area is both a blessing and curse. There’s always a top of the class and a bottom of the class, and as a consumer you understandably want to work with one of the best.

Knowing what to look for can help you make the right decision.

Experience and Expertise: Look for a company with years of experience in air conditioner, heat pump and furnace replacement and repair. They should have a team of trained and certified technicians who are knowledgeable about different types of HVAC systems and the system design options that will meet your temperature-control needs.

Licensing and Insurance: Make sure that the company you choose is licensed and insured. This ensures that they meet the necessary standards for safety, quality and professionalism.

Reviews and Ratings: Check online reviews and ratings of the company on Google and review platforms. Companies that can’t maintain good ratings may try to convince you those ratings can be easily manipulated. While there’s some truth to this concern, the bottom line is hundreds of five-star reviews from obviously real customers isn’t a trick. Read through a random sampling of reviews if you have concerns about their validity. This can give you an idea of their level of customer service, quality of work and overall reputation.

Price and Value: While price is an important consideration, it should not be the only factor if you can afford to consider alternatives. Some customers will need to choose the lowest-cost option, but if you have the budget to invest in a longer-lasting, more efficient system, it may be worth your time to learn about your options. Look for a company that offers competitive pricing but also provides value in terms of quality work, reliable service and customer support.

Customer Service: Choose a company that is responsive, professional, and offers good customer service. This includes being available to answer questions and address concerns, providing clear communication and being respectful of your time and property.

Warranty and Guarantees: Look for a company that offers warranties or guarantees on their work and products. Also ask about potential discounts, manufacturer rebates, local state and city rebates and manufacturer warranties. Be warned that many modern HVAC units come with very generous warranties if you follow a strict maintenance schedule performed by a contractor certified in their systems. Failure to stick to the manufacturer’s rules may invalidate the warranty and devalue that benefit.

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Questions to Ask Your Installer

Transparency and clear answers are important. While there are many upstanding and reliable HVAC companies in the D.C. area, there are some questionable individuals in every field. The problem isn’t even dishonesty – it often comes down to a lack of experience or a basic lack of dedication to customer service or good craftsmanship.

Asking informed questions and gauging the answers you receive is one of the best ways to separate the great HVAC companies from the mediocre.

What Size Air Conditioner or Heat Pump Do I Need for My Home?

The installer should perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size air conditioner for your home based on its cubic footage, insulation, your comfort preferences and other factors. Keep in mind square footage is not necessarily the key measurement. The amount of floor your home has does not determine the volume of air that must be temperature controlled. Ceiling height is just as important (especially if you have high ceilings).
What Types of Air Conditioning or Furnace Systems Are Available?

Not every company works on or installs every brand of HVAC system. The particularly good, experienced companies will have experience working on just about everything. However, just because the installer performing your installation estimate can repair something doesn’t necessarily mean you should buy the system. Do your own system research and ask the installer about their brand preferences and why. See if what you find through your own research aligns with their assessment. If it turns out they sell a lower-quality brand or push you toward a unit that doesn’t have a good record, you may want to get a second opinion.
What Is the Cost of Air Conditioner, Heat Pump or Furnace Replacement or Installation?

You should expect (and demand if necessary) a detailed estimate of the cost of the replacement and installation, including any additional fees for permits, labor or materials. Reputable companies will automatically provide detailed estimates, and you should be warry of companies that don’t want to give you a clear and straightforward estimate.
What Is Included in the Installation Process?

The system designer and installation technician who visits your home for an estimate should provide a detailed explanation of the installation process, including any necessary repairs or modifications to the existing ductwork or electrical system that will be necessary.
What Is the Timeline for the Replacement and Installation?

The company technician you speak with should provide an estimated timeline for the replacement and installation process, including any necessary permits or inspections. Ask if there are any unique regulations or requirements for your community and if things like permits or inspections will slow down the installation process. The company should handle these things for you.
What Type of Warranty or Guarantee Is Provided?

Warranties are a fairly valuable asset that you shouldn’t ignore. If the specialist is recommending a certain brand or model, ask them about the warranty and any guarantees they offer. Some warranties require regular maintenance, which means the warranty will essentially be worthless if you don’t invest in regular maintenance. Make sure to ask those questions before you invest in a new air conditioner, furnace or heat pump.
What Is the Installer's Experience and Credentials?

System designers and installation technicians should have a number of important certifications, including a general certificate like NATE as well as manufacturer-specific certifications. If you’re interested in a particular make or model, it may be best to find a company that specializes in that brand of HVAC system.
Are There Any Maintenance or Service Plans Available?

Ask about their VIP program, especially if your warranty requires you to invest in regular maintenance. VIP members also benefit from a variety of other perks, like discounts, priority service and special offers.