What kind of work is involved in replacing an old HVAC system?

Replacing your old heating and cooling systems requires some work, and not just from the HVAC professionals – homeowners have work to do, too! Before it’s time to replace your aging systems, look at some of the steps involved to do so.

Work for the homeowner when replacing old HVAC systems

• Find HVAC professionals in your area. If you do not have a trusted HVAC pro to work with, you’ll need to find some businesses to call upon who can do the work – but how do you select these contractors? Asking friends and family for local recommendations is a great starting point. Also, check local review websites, such as Yelp, to see ratings and experiences.

When evaluating contractors, look for those who are fully licensed and insured for your protection, and ask if their technicians are NATE-certified.

• Obtain estimates for the project. Most homeowners like to get 2 or more estimates before starting costly projects. Call upon your selected HVAC pros to estimate your project. Have them come to your home to write the estimate – an accurate quote cannot be given over the phone. When evaluating your estimates, make sure you’re comparing equal items; don’t be afraid to ask the contractor for clarification.
• Research system types. It’s a good idea to go into a meeting with your HVAC contractor with some idea of the type of system and features you want. Are you replacing your old systems with the same type of system, or are you wanting to switch to a new type of heating or cooling system, such as switching from a furnace to a heat pump? Is energy-efficiency and low operating costs a main concern? Your research will give you a foundation for starting conversations with your contractor, who can guide you in selecting the right system type for your situation.
• Prepping the worksite. It’ll be quite helpful and make the installation process go much quicker if you could prepare the installation site before your HVAC contractor arrives. Make sure your contractor has easy access to the attic, crawlspace, or utility cabinet where the new system will be installed. Clear away items stored near the existing equipment, leaving the surrounding area free of obstacles.

For friendly and professional advice on the sales, service and maintenance of HVAC equipment; contact Parkers Heating and Cooling today or call us at 615-355-9137