What Does an HVAC Contractor Do? (Qualifications & Signs to Hire One)

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HVAC contractors are the ones to call when you need heating or cooling repairs for your home or office. These professionals offer a range of services, including HVAC installation, ductwork cleaning, and more. However, some property owners might not realize everything an HVAC contractor does or doesn't offer for their property!

Also, property owners might need some details about how to find the right contractor for needed services. It’s also helpful to note when it’s time to schedule HVAC repair or replacement! With this in mind, consider some information about HVAC contractors and signs that you need their services.

What Does “HVAC Contractor” Stand For and What Do They Do?

The term “HVAC” stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. In turn, HVAC contractors handle installation, maintenance, and repairs for furnaces, boilers, ductwork, air purifiers, air conditioners, and similar pieces.

For instance, an HVAC contractor might handle any of the following:

• Inspect your property’s furnace or boiler, air conditioners, air purifiers, ducts, registers or vents, exhaust fans, and thermostats. This inspection might include checking belts and hoses for damage, noting AC coolant levels, calibrating thermostats, and the like.
• Performing routine maintenance on your property’s HVAC systems. This might include cleaning furnace parts, the AC compressor, and other items. Also, he or she might replace minor parts such as belts, hoses, a thermostat, and various switches or relays.
• An HVAC contractor can also clean, repair, or replace a structure’s ductwork and attached vents or registers.
• Performing needed repairs on the HVAC system. These repairs might include replacing major components such as blowers and motors.
• An HVAC contractor can typically relocate major appliances on your property. For instance, your home’s furnace might be in the way of your basement renovation plans. In turn, an HVAC contractor can relocate the appliance and attach ductwork as needed.
• You should definitely call an HVAC contractor for new appliance installation! He or she knows how to install those appliances properly and according to local building codes. For instance, a licensed contractor ensures an AC unit has enough space for ventilation.
• Some HVAC contractors offer checks for energy efficiency and safety around your property. As an example, they might check a furnace for potential gas leaks or check ductwork for cracks and leaks.

Does HVAC Include Air Conditioning?

Some people are under the mistaken assumption that HVAC means ventilation and heating. This is true, but it also includes air conditioning, as said! While some HVAC contractors might not work on window or portable units, most offer repairs and replacements for split systems. Also, these contractors can typically install a new central unit, including required ductwork.

Also, don’t assume that HVAC only refers to commercial properties. Your home’s furnace, air conditioner, ductwork, and other such pieces make up its HVAC system. In turn, residential property owners often need to hire HVAC contractors just like commercial customers.

That being said, note that some contractors might specialize or only offer certain services, simply due to personal choice. For instance, some contractors might not have the expertise needed to repair large-scale commercial boilers. On the other hand, some contractors might prefer working with commercial customers! However, note that these are only personal preferences; most HVAC contractors offer both residential and commercial services.

Finding the Best HVAC Contractor

If you need to hire an HVAC repair or installation contractor, note a few simple tips. First, check that the company is licensed and insured! Second, note online reviews from past customers. However, you don’t want to stop at Google reviews. Instead, visit Houzz, Thumbtack, Angi, and other sites with contractor reviews.

Next, when gathering quotes for repair or replacement, don’t choose by price alone! An underpriced bid might indicate a lack of experience or that the contractor uses poor-quality materials. Also, note their warranty for parts and labor. Choose a contractor that offers long guarantees for their work and any appliances they install.

Additionally, most reputable HVAC contractors offer different options for appliances installation especially. Your contractor should respect your budget while still explaining your property’s HVAC needs. In turn, they should have more than just one furnace or AC model they install!

Above all, choose a contractor who is easy to work with. He or she should answer your questions and explain your HVAC system’s condition as much as possible. Answering questions usually indicates knowledge of their work and a willingness to ensure customer satisfaction!

When Is It Time to Hire an HVAC Contractor?

Note that your furnace or AC doesn’t need to stop working altogether to need repairs or replacement! Call a repair contractor if you notice any of these issues around your property:

• Odd noises from your furnace or AC, especially squealing, grinding, thumping, and banging. Squealing usually indicates worn bearings while other sounds might result from broken parts inside a unit. Also, foreign objects in a furnace or AC might result in banging and thumping noises!
• Also, odd smells often indicate worn parts or foreign objects in an appliance. Musty odors can also indicate mold along the appliance part or a blocked drain hose.
• An air conditioner blowing lukewarm air often needs repair or replacing. A damaged compressor can’t cool air as it circulates, or the unit might be undersized for your property.
• Note if your appliances cycle on or off too quickly, or stay on longer than they should. These issues often indicate faulty wiring, a damaged thermostat, or the wrong appliance size.
• You probably need an HVAC repair contractor if your interior spaces don’t seem comfortable even after appliances cycle on and off. For instance, an AC cycling off too quickly can leave behind humidity. In turn, your interior rooms might feel cool but clammy.

Also, property owners should consider the age of their appliances. If they’re reaching the end of their expected lifespan, you might replace them now, before they fail. Doing so ensures that they’ll remain operational for years to come!

Red Star Cooling & Heating is pleased to offer this information about HVAC contractors and their services. If you need furnace or AC repairs or installation, call our Woodlands HVAC contractors today! We offer expert, affordable services fully guaranteed in writing. To find out more, contact our team.