Buying a new HVAC system or completing major repairs is a big-ticket expense and you’ll want to do all you can to avoid making any costly mistakes. However, you’ll also want to get the job done quickly, especially if you’re ordering the replacement or repair during the season.
Therefore, it may be tempting to just go with the first quote you get from an HVAC technician on the installation or repair project. But should you get multiple HVAC quotes? What should the quotes cover?
SM Mechanical Services, the most reputable HVAC company in Glastonbury, CT, covers all you need to know in this post.
You Need Multiple HVAC Quotes for Your HVAC Project in Glastonbury
When you need any HVAC services, it’s in your best interest to get as many quotes as possible from different HVAC companies. Ideally, you should aim for a minimum of three quotes before you settle on a company to choose for your furnaces and air conditioning installation and repair services.
The Advantages of Getting Multiple HVAC Quotes on Every Project
Some of the main advantages of getting multiple HVAC quotes on your project include the following:
Get the Best Rate for the Service
Many people only expect significant price disparity on HVAC installation projects. However, you may also experience significant differences in the prices from different HVAC technicians, even for air conditioning repair or furnace repair projects.
Therefore, it can be hard to establish a baseline of what makes sense as the cost of the project and what doesn’t without looking at quotes from at least three different HVAC contractors.
Avoid Hidden Fees
Even when you already have an idea of what a project might cost, you could end up making a mistake by choosing a company quoting a price lower than what you had in mind, only to get hit by hidden fees later.
Getting multiple quotes can help you see when a contractor is charging far below the going rate for the job. This way, you can reach out to them and find out why their fees are lower than others and if they have any hidden fees. You may also choose to go with other companies charging more realistic rates instead.
Avoid Elaborate Scams
Should you get multiple HVAC quotes? Definitely. It can help you avoid shady contractors.
You’ve probably heard the maxim “If it’s too good to be true, it usually is” a few times. If there’s one time to keep it at the back of your mind, it’s during a major HVAC installation or repair project. When a company gives you a quote that is seemingly too cheap, be hesitant.
Some scam companies use this trick to get you to part with an upfront fee. Once you do that, you may never hear from them again. Don’t worry about checking them out at their listed address, as it most likely doesn’t belong to them!
An even more sinister scam is one where the contractor will actually do the work but cut corners in other ways, like installing a problematic refurbished unit at the cost of a new one or using cheap replacement parts. In this case, you’ll be back dealing with an HVAC problem a few months later.
Comparing quotes from multiple contractors will help you see when someone is intentionally undercutting genuine HVAC contractors.
Compare Services Better
Quality HVAC quotes are always detailed, covering what the project will entail and any other extras the company will cover. Therefore, getting multiple quotes will show you the company offering the best all-around deal for the price they are charging.
For example, a company charging roughly the same rates as others but offering longer warranty terms and post-installation support may give you better value for your money.
Hear From Multiple Professionals
If you’re trying to repair HVAC equipment, you’ll want to confirm that the technicians who checked out the system first got their diagnosis right. Multiple quotes from different technicians get you the confirmation you need.
If they all don’t agree on what needs to be done, you may have to take a step back and consider talking to other technicians.
Better Negotiation Power
After looking at multiple quotes, you’ll have some leverage when negotiating prices with HVAC technicians. If you want to work with a specific contractor but think their prices are too high, you can use the numbers from other contractors as a benchmark to negotiate a better deal.
Most contractors know they are competing for your business. Therefore, they will always be open to negotiations. Even if they don’t offer discounts, they can throw in additional services at no extra charge to you.
What to Look for in an HVAC Quote During HVAC Work in Your Glastonbury, CT, Home?
Should you get multiple HVAC quotes? Yes, you should. However, the quotes are only useful if they are detailed and professional. Some of the things you should watch for when evaluating the quote include:
- The scope of the work. Quotes from trained technicians will clearly detail what the work will cover. If it’s a repair job, it must show what parts will need replacing and how much each should cost. If it’s an installation project, it should also show which HVAC equipment they’re purchasing and the costs.
- Pricing. The pricing should clearly differentiate how much you’re paying for parts or equipment and how much you’re paying for labor.
- Technical specifications. If it’s an installation project, the quote has to contain technical details like the size of the unit, its SEER or AFUE ratings, etc.
- Warranty information. The quote should confirm if you’re getting a manufacturer warranty, a labor warranty, or both.
Trust SM Mechanical Services, LLC for Hassle-Free HVAC solutions in Glastonbury, CT
Now you know the answer to “Should you get multiple HVAC quotes?” you should ensure you’re getting each quote from a reputable company like us.
Want to find out how much furnace repair and AC installation costs in the area? Call SM Mechanical Services in Glastonbury, CT, at (860) 530-2671 to request your quote.