Summer is air conditioning season, and whether you’re considering a new system for the first time, or replacing an aged system, the process can sometimes feel, well… overwhelming. There are a lot of moving parts in HVAC (pun intended) and with that, a lot of questions.
In a recent interview with our HVAC Manager James Crawford, he took us step-by-step through what homeowners can expect during the consultation and purchasing process with Harts.
What should a homeowner know when they are considering a new air conditioning system?
First, focus on finding a contractor that you trust. One that offers customized system options for your home and lifestyle, who can efficiently source equipment and successfully install the system without issue. You’ll also want to use a company who offers customer protection, ongoing maintenance and is established in the industry. Definitely check the company’s Google reviews.
How should a homeowner prepare for the consultation with an HVAC Comfort Advisor? What should they know going in?
First, know your home’s details – square footage, whether you have natural gas or electric, do you currently have a furnace? The size and number of floors of your home will indicate the size and tonnage of the equipment you need. Also, many homeowners don’t know that you can still get air conditioning installed, even if you don’t have a furnace or any ductwork!
Then, have an idea of what you want to get out of your system:
- Are you looking for a more effective and efficient cooling system?
- Are you concerned with environmental impact?
- Do you want to save money on your utilities (and who doesn’t…)?
- Do the people in your household have allergies or respiratory conditions?
- Is noise an issue?
- How long do you plan on staying in your home?
For example, if you have an aged air conditioner (10 years or older), it is likely not as efficient as newer models. A new system will not only run more efficiently, but it will also likely help save on those utility bills. If you’re concerned with the environment, a heat pump may be right for you because they are more eco-friendly and can drastically cut down on the need to heat your home with fossil fuels. For those with allergies or respiratory conditions, indoor air quality (IAQ) will be a major concern and your system should be configured with that in mind. If you plan to stay in your home for many years to come, you’ll want to make sure the system comes with warranty protection and ongoing maintenance after the installation.
About the consultation process – what does that look like?
The consultation process won’t be short; prepare to be with your Comfort Advisor for up to two hours. Why? Because there is a lot of information to collect and questions to be answered, both by you and by us. A good Comfort Advisor will listen to your goals and take the time to build system options that are right for you.
At Harts, our process includes sending out an “on the way” text to the homeowner before the Comfort Advisor arrives. It will include their photo and a short bio, so you know who to expect. The Comfort Advisor will arrive in a full uniform and Harts-branded vehicle. They will have a friendly demeanor, make sure that where they parked their vehicle is okay with you, put on shoe coverings and present you with an agenda for the visit.
Your Comfort Advisor will begin with a few questions related to your system, including:
- Where is the current equipment located (if applicable)?
- Where is your electrical panel?
- They will need access to this equipment and any duct work to conduct a thorough evaluation.
- Do you like your thermostat? Is WIFI-enabled or wireless control of your system important to you?
- Are there any places in the house that aren’t getting proper air flow or temperature control?
Then, they will ask lifestyle questions, such as:
- Does anyone in the home have allergies or respiratory issues?
- What temperatures are comfortable for you, awake and asleep?
- How do you use your thermostat (i.e. big temperature swings or small adjustments)?
- Does anyone in the household work from home?
Answers to these questions will help your Comfort Advisor begin narrowing down options for your home and your lifestyle.
During the system evaluation, what is the Comfort Advisor doing?
The Comfort Advisor will look at your primary heat source, open up the unit and evaluate the interior. They will visually inspect and measure the duct work connected to it, to verify proper air flow, as well as assess the type, size, and location of your filters.They will check your electrical panel and your furnace circuit to ensure your electrical system is sufficient for a new system.
After assessing your current system (if you have one), the Comfort Advisor will then do a load calculation on your home. A load calculation uses different factors to determine how quickly your house gains and loses heat – how quickly it warms up and cools off. Factors include square footage, number of floors, year the home was built, insulation values, number of windows and the directions they face, presence of skylights, etc. This will determine the proper size of equipment for your home.
Based on your conversation and the system evaluation, your Comfort Advisor will begin building options that are right for you. Industry standard is three options (though you may get more or fewer), and generally these options are based on systems that are “Good, Better, Best”.
As a homeowner, what should I be asking my Comfort Advisor?
It’s always reassuring to know that your Comfort Advisor has significant experience in HVAC, so you certainly could start there. As it relates specifically to your interest in a new system, here are my suggestions:
- What size or tonnage and BTU of equipment is right for my home?
- What manufacturers do you sell?
- Do you offer financing options?
- Will the system come with a warranty?
- What is the timeframe to schedule installation? How long will the installation take?
- Is your work guaranteed?
- What is the required/recommended maintenance on a new air conditioning system?
- What if something breaks or stops working? Who do I call?
Certainly, additional questions will come to mind during the consultation, but these are a good starting point.
Let’s say I’m ready to buy. What does Harts need/expect from me?
At Harts, we require a 50% deposit to get started, however if you are using financing, this is not required. Your Comfort Advisor will present you with documents for your signature including a final estimate approval, our cancellation policy, terms and conditions, etc., as well as financing documents if applicable.
Once all of that is complete, your Comfort Advisor will order the equipment and hand off the project to our Install Department who will get in touch with you about scheduling, any additional paperwork, etc.
Ok, bottom line. What is the cost for a new air conditioning system?
I fully realize that this is an unpopular answer, but pricing really depends on many variables (refer to ALL the questions above). At Harts, our systems can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands depending on the size of your home, the number of units you need and what works best for your lifestyle. At the end of the consultation with your Comfort Advisor, you will have pricing for all options, including equipment, labor and any additional fees, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to compare.
Why should I choose Harts?
Remember, make sure to hire a trustworthy contractor with experience in the HVAC industry. Check our Google reviews! Additionally, we offer both customer protection and a maintenance plan.
At Harts, our HVAC equipment is covered by the Forever Warranty, for your peace of mind. The warranty is for the lifetime of the equipment, is underwritten by a third party insurer, and it’s transferable should you decide to sell your home.
When you join our Home Care Plan, you will get bi-annual HVAC system tune ups, free of charge. You’ll also enjoy priority service, waived trip fees, member-only exclusive discounts on service work and annual rebates.
Speaking of rebates, both PSE and TPU offer rebates on HVAC equipment. Our team will make sure that we are taking advantage of any rebates that are available for your system.
Our Comfort Advisors and HVAC Installers are expertly trained with years (some decades) of experience. We aim to deliver 5-star service across the board, providing our customers with peace of mind for a lifetime. Since 2013, Harts has been a locally-owned and operated company serving Western Washington; we take great pride in serving the communities where we live, work and play.
If you’re ready to talk about a new or replacement air conditioning system, give us a call or book online. Our Comfort Advisors are ready to meet you!
