Finding an HVAC Contractor: 7 Factors to Consider

October 8, 2013 - Published by Scott's Air

Finding an HVAC contractor is important for your home’s energy efficiency and your indoor air comfort.

But selecting a technician based on an advertisement can be a gamble. Luckily, a little homework on your part can make all the difference.

Finding an HVAC Contractor

Sure, your could go online and do a quick search to find a contractor. But in today’s world of advertisements and clever ranking tactics, you can’t trust the first thing you see online.

Finding an HVAC contractor can quickly become quite a headache! Keep these things in mind when starting the HVAC hunt:

Know your AC model.
Trust word-of-mouth.
Check reviews!
Be aware of unnecessary upsells.
Wait for an in-person visit before getting a quote.
Ask for a written estimate.
Paper contracts are king!

Knowledge is power!

Be informed. Requirements for contractors and insurance vary greatly! If you choose an HVAC contractor that is not up to code, you may be leaving yourself and your home liable to damages. Understand the licensing and insurance requirements for your state, your county, and your city. Make sure the contractor meets those regional standards before trusting them with your home.

When you call potential HVAC contractors, have the brand and model of your HVAC equipment available. This allows the HVAC professional to tell you if they have experience with your equipment. If they do – bingo! If not, it may be wise to keep searching.

Ask around!

Use word of mouth. Recommendations are one of the best ways of finding a reputable contractor who might work well with you. Ask your friends and family if they have an HVAC contractor they know, trust and recommend.

If you can’t locate someone close to you that has a trusted HVAC source, then reach out to your neighbors! Chances are, your home was built around the same time that theirs was, and you may even have the same HVAC unit. It’s possible that your neighbors are also in the process of finding an HVAC contractor.

When In Doubt, Experience Speaks!

Check references. Ask potential contractors for references. Talking to previous clients is a great way to find out what a contractor is all about. Be sure to ask these clients about their entire experience, including service after installation.

It may feel strange to reach out to a customer, but the clients that consent to be contacted as a reference understand how important, and stressful, finding an HVAC contractor is.

Know Your Worth!

Watch the bottom line. Improvements to your HVAC system are a considerable investment. Don’t be dazzled by rebates, only to find out you’re paying more in the end. Look for a contractor who is an authorized dealer for a quality brand – they can give you the best price upfront so you don’t have to haggle for discounts or fill out rebate forms.

Blind Quotes Are Red Flags

Anticipate a site visit. Your contractor shouldn’t be giving price quotes over the phone. You can’t afford that type of guesswork! A qualified HVAC professional will evaluate the needs of your home before making a recommendation.

Leave a Paper Trail

Written, itemized estimates are a must. When comparing bids, make sure you’re looking at the entire purchase. Warranties, follow-up service and energy efficiency are important parts of any HVAC purchase. Having estimates in writing allows you to make an informed decision.

Cover Your Assets

Have a written contract. Before any work is done, have a written proposal drawn up that outlines the scope of the project. Itemized costs, warranty information and model numbers should be clearly outlined.

Finding an HVAC Contractor

By taking these things into consideration before you make your decision, you can avoid a lot of trouble and heartache down the line. And if you’re looking for an HVAC contractor in the Orlando area, be sure to give us a call at Scott’s Heating & Air Conditioning. We’re always happy to help!

Image via Shutterstock.com

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Scott’s Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service heating and air conditioning company and a Bryant® Factory Authorized Dealer in Central Florida. Whether you need repair, maintenance, or installation of a new heating or cooling system, we provide efficient, cost-effective, and professional service. When it’s hot, call Scott!

Tags: energy efficiency, energy evaluation, heating and cooling, hvac contractor, hvac system, orlando florida

Categorised in: Service and Maintenance

AC Service Testimonials

All are very responsive and professional! Great job!

Diane Layton

1682546738

Scott’s saved the day for us this evening. Our A/C stopped working and it got hot inside quickly, which was more complicated because I’m 36 weeks pregnant. Scott’s was responsive to our call and within two hours someone had come and fixed our unit!

Kaley Gilford

1681601593

20 out of 10 this place is amazing. The techs are always awesome. Super knowledgeable, friendly, polite and quick. They are prompt about appointments and always show up within the time frame. They always keep me cool and I cannot appreciate you guys enough!

Emily Koller

1680904342

Scott’s Heating and Air Conditioning installed our new Bryant unit in 2019. I am very happy with my purchase. Every year I call Michelle and schedule our annual maintenance, and I always request Cliff. Cliff is a great AC Technician. He always explains everything thoroughly, and does a great job. Both Michelle and Cliff are professional, friendly, and they get the job done!! I highly recommend Scott’s Heating and Air Conditioning, it is an excellent company.

Patty

1679865728

What a great team! Reliable, trustworthy, would never go anywhere else for my AC.

John Phillips

1678574691

We had 2 very old water cooled A/C units that needed to be replaced. The scope of our project was above that of a typical A/C install, but Scott's made the process easy and painless! After our first encounter with Daniel I knew we were in the right hands. Everyone on the install team was amazing! I would recommend Scott's to anyone!

Stephanie Barber

1673634144

Carrier/Bryant equipment and the whole install team make me feel like a genius selecting Scott's. I shopped hard, did plenty of research and got the selection down to 3 companies. The other two were companies I knew and trusted so were tough competition. In the end, recommendations by neighbors, reviews, great choices of equipment, fair price/good warranty and Daniel the sales guy explaining EVERYTHING, won the deal. The install team are simply fantastic and I'm already seeing the huge improvement over my older equipment in true and honest comfort differences in my home. Well done Scott's! UPDATE: had some problems with the equipment, not Scott's. THEY WERE AMAZING trying to solve them.

Scott Koenig

1673625158

I've flipped over 150 homes and I've been through plenty of AC contractors. These are the guys I use at my personal residence and have for years. They were a BIG relief to find! They are responsive, fair-priced, prompt, professional, HONEST, and dependable.AC guys are programmed to sell you to a new system... not these guys. They are programmed to tell the truth! I kid you not!

Greg Schmid

1673560168

Fast reliable response, Great prices with a honest approach. Owner Scott is very attentive and hospitable. Thanks, A++++++ Also, Thanks for your service.

Peter Frampton

1673026944

Loved Scott’s, great price /great product/great service!Dan, Boris and Jonathan were professional, knowledgeable, and friendly.

Vicky Lawry

1673011222

They did a great job installing our new A/C and Heating System. Daniel and Jose were friendly and professional.

Susan Sullivan

1671715021

Hey I just wanted to say thank you and you’re guys for the best service that I have ever had.The guys went above and beyond my expectations.Everything is perfect.These guys are top notch!

Rad -1

1668702707

They acted so professional, honest and fast.I would recommend them for sure

pani ahmadi

1668188374

Pleasant, speedy and informative service. I'd recommend them highly if you find yourself needing help Pronto and want a quality option.

Cole Nave

1668118183

The technician Santiago arrived to resolve an issue with our central air not turning on. He was honest, helpful, and professional. In a short time, he got our unit running again. After his diagnosis, he even provided us with helpful information for updating our unit in the future since our current model is over 20 years old. Overall experience was great; I highly recommend this small business over the competition.

Nick Murphy

1664636239

Urgent call. He was here in an hr, fixed the issues and i was satisfied with it all

Frances Santarpia

1663800087

Responded within a couple hours Over the weekend with no questions asked and was able to fix the problem at a very reasonable place

elizabeth torres

1663435068

They always do a good job . I recently had Santiago here doing my maintenance and he was just a doll. Explained everything showed me pictures and was very thorough.

Deb Franz

1663189083

I AM IMPRESSED WITH THE WORK DONE, THE INVESTMENT HAS BEEN THE BEST. A WELL QUALIFIED STAFF, VERY GOOD EDUCATION. I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR THE SERVICE YOU HAVE GIVEN ME, THAT YOU HAVE A LOT OF SUCCESS, THANK YOU.

Jose Olayon

1661978650

I had Grant Hayes come out and he went above and beyond to make sure he didn’t leave until it was working - identified possible problems and methodically went through the progressions explaining to me what he was doing - thanks Grant - the price that was charged was way lower than I thought it would be

John Moore

1660438501

They really did a spectacular job from start to finish.If professional and quality are your priority... The team at Scott's is a great choice.Adding to this, in the three years since the installation.. everyone I've dealt with from this company has been amazing.Will continue to use them for yearly maintenance

Gregory Copeland

1660253191

Dan in sales, did outstanding jobgoing over equipment and helping us make what was the best decisions for us on purchasing new a/cinstall, plus scheduling the nextday! Boris and Justin excellent communications while install and after! very clean, professional in take old out installing new!ty tyTed & Tracy Fraley

T Fraley

1659196671

My husband and I are extremely happy with the service we received from everyone at Scott's Heating and Air, from the office staff who answer the phone to the installers.The office staff never made us feel rushed when we were talking to them on the phone. Sherree kept us informed each step of the way. Another lady of the office (I think Erica) went above and beyond and personally drove to my house and posted the work permit (as we live 90+ miles away and have covid). Jeff, the site supervisor was very professional in handling an issue I thought was huge, but Jeff resolved it within minutes and the fix was above our expectations even the inspector stated that the whip was secured in a top-notch matter, and we will never have any issues with it coming down. The installer Victor and I don't remember the other guy's name were very professional, clean, they didn't smoke or use foul language, they both were very polite to my 94-year-old mother and disabled brother. No one at Scott's Heating and Air ever tried to up sale us for any additional services nor did they talk us into the most expensive unit. Victor gave us a quote with 4 AC unit to choose from. The only negative thing I can say is Scott's Heating and Air does not service where my husband and I live.When you need AC work done or replaced Scott's Heating and Air Conditioning is the company you want doing your work.Thank you to everyone at Scott's Heating and Air for being a company who really cares about people and each of you show that in the way you talk and work.P.S. Victor and the other guy are also dog people as we did not need to put our 90 lbs. Lab up. I always trust people that dog my trust.

Crystal Morse

1659192015

I can't say enough good things. The entire company is extremely professional and they were so well organized. We called to get an estimate for replacing the AC - they were that day with quote in hand by COB. Within a day they were out replacing our system. Boros is an incredible craftsman and extremely nice, patient and professional. Thank you Scotts for being there in a pinch and doing affordable quality work.

Katherine Tyszko

1658276789

We had an issue that needed a professional to assess. Clif and Kash were honest, informative and a pleasure to work with. Found nothing wrong and did not try to upsell anything. We will always use them from now on.

Mary Pat Moriarty

1656678912

I had my A/C serviced today 6-28-2022 by Scott's Heating and Air and I had Santiago for my service technician and he was absolutely phenomenal and very respectful and professional and caring of our home and our 15 year old A/C. I want to Thank Scott for having a great service technician and I want to Thank Santiago for doing such a great job today cleaning our air conditioner and for taking the time to check every component thoroughly. If you are looking for a Air Conditioner company that still has integrity and believes in taking care of the customer then Scott's Heating and Air is who you want to call. I will never have my Air Conditioner serviced nor replaced by anyone but Scott's Heating and Air. Thank you Scott for having a great service technician and for having a great company that is honest and on time. I look forward to having Scott's Heating and Air replace my Air Conditioner hopefully soon because mine is aging but still working because of Scott's maintenance plan which by the way does work and is very affordable.

Edward Rockenstyre

1656460600

I am so incredibly grateful for Scott's. What a great company! So efficient, clean and communicative. They installed a ductless air-conditioning unit this morning and I couldn't be more impressed. They are so caring and thought of every detail.

Sara Bartell

1651690570

These guys are HONEST. Came to my newly purchased home 2 yrs ago just to check everything out, Jeff is a friend and the best in the business.

Brett Berardinelli

1648755532

I have been amazed by the service I've received from Scott's Heating and Air Conditioning. They responded so quickly and I was so impressed by the service repair person last week that I purchased a new system which was installed today. The technicians were on time, polite, professional, knowledgeable and tidy. If I could rate higher than five stars, I would.

Barbara Lewis

1648153217

The epitome of good service! Professionalism and courteousness from everyone I've talked to with the company. The cookies at the end were a brilliant touch. Really leaves a good impression on my whole experience.

khaivt

1647313973

Great service, reasonably priced and most of all seem very honest

Wesley George

1646675091

We started using Scott's years ago when our long term HVAC Repairman retired. Building trust in an HVAC Company is similar to car repairs where we're always wondering if we are overpaying or getting charged for unnecessary repairs. From the start, we always felt comfortable with what the Techs told us. Because of Freon leakage we recently had to invest in a new system (after 12 years). The estimate we received was a fair price and at least 20% less than another company for the same unit. They weren't the lowest bid but I knew their service was excellent and I rarely go for the lowest bid. I felt it was the best value. The system was completely installed two days later by a team of four, very professional, techs along with a new Ecobee smart thermostat. Team was very impressive and followed up several times over the following weeks to be sure everything was working ok. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Scott's for repair or system install work.

Ken Ciocco

1640788758

Amazing experience from start to finish. I highly recommend this company.

Nephthaly Leveque

1638070274

I did research and saw all the positive reviews. I met with Dan in sales and liked the way I was treated as a customer. The installers, Brad and Justin were very experienced and solved any problem that needed attention. I had both inside and outside units replaced, all the copper and drain pipes. The new programmable thermostat works great. Parker and Nate showed up shortly after to replace two attic ducts. Good work once again. Then Patrick came out to install the blue light in the inside unit. Everyone supported each other, great teamwork.

Jimmy Mac

1637176932

One of the few companies that saw a supply chain issue in advance and started to stockpile systems so when I needed a new one, BOOM, they where ready, willing, and able. Also, they left the area looking brand new unlike other companies.

Marilyn Singer

1634653606

Our 13 year old A/C system was ready to be replaced after struggling all summer to keep my house cool. Victor and the installation guys (Santiago, Jose, Brad), were all super professional and made sure we were well taken care of. When we finalized all the paperwork for the new A/C, Victor came back after hours and installed a temporary window unit so my family could be comfortable in this unbearable Florida heat. Santiago, Jose, and Brad were extremely kind and paid attention to detail when they were installing new a/c system. The Scott’s Heating and A/C crew is awesome and it’s rare to find businesses that are trustworthy and go above and beyond. Thank you!

Emily Zimmerman

1633484913

I called for service on Sunday and spoke with Lucas who got me an appointment first thing Monday morning on a holiday! Thank you Victor and Alberto for top notch service once again!Scott you can be proud to have all 3 of these gentlemen working for you they were courteous and fast and had me living in a cool house in no time!!Thank you.Life long customer!!!

Rebecca Lesher

1630938149

Excellent service: responsive, knowledgeable, professional and courteous

1630364890

AC went out late Saturday evening. So hot! Called Scotts Air on Sun. They answered right away & came out to fix it a few hours later. Didnt charge an arm & a leg & Gerry was very professional. Had a part replaced & back to cold air. Many thanks to them for coming to my rescue!

Gina James

1630020461

Clif was very professional and fixed my ac issue and explained everything to me during process. Thanks again!

Anthony Tucciarelli

1629999757

Great company with great employees

Kim R

1629290768

Literally phenomenal from start to finish. The admin taking our call was delightfully polite and it was nothing short of miraculous that someone was able to tend to our problem within the hour of our call. Clif, the person who came out was polite, patient, and knowledgeable. We will continue to use your company at any point needed.

Sarah

1629253308

Top notch company from sales to installation they did an excellent job. And the new Bryant a/c system is superb.

Will

1629199501

Scott has an amazing team. All the employees are very smart and courteous. My system has been running flawlessly for 5 years now. The only time it stopped was when a frog sat on top of the heat pump to warm up, he dried himself to a prune and fell into the heat pump fan and it stopped from running.

Tom Shusta

1627945194

We've had a great experience with Scott's. Found our way to them through community recommendations and good google reviews when we needed a new A/C. The office staff is very friendly and helpful. Whenever we have a need, I feel like they take ownership and care about the resolution. For example, after our new unit was installed, we had some questions and observations on how it was working compared to our replaced system. A senior tech came out to help us calibrate our thermostat and adjust our vents. Pricing is fair and transparent and I don't feel like we're being "sold." I trust Scott's.

Laura McCormack

1626899891

Very quick and professional service, five plus stars!!

Tom Owens

1626576033

I was looking for a specific brand, Scott's was one of the dealers. I immediately felt comfortable with Danny, the sales rep. The pricing was fair, the people were awesome, and they did what they said they were going to do, when they said they were going to do it. What more could you ask?

Rusty Parsons

1626532768

Saturday afternoon, no A/C. Checked out the internet and saw that Scott's had many positive reviews so I called. The person on the phone was friendly and understanding and eager to help me get service that day. When the service man showed up he was intent on finding the cause of our problem, not just the quick fix or an over priced recommendation to "replace the condenser" that had been recommended by another A/C company earlier in the week. He was worked until the job was done, way past "normal" working hours on the weekend and spent the time waiting to make sure the house cooled down before leaving. I was excited to find out about the maintenance agreement that is offered by Scott's because I would NEVER trust anyone else to service my A/C.

Brenda Dorman

1626044654

The salesman, Victor, was very informative as to the different AC models and answered any questions I had. He was fair in his pricing. The installation team were experienced and strived for perfection in the installation. They worked long and hard to complete the installation in one day despite some challenges they came across. I am glad I chose Scott's.

Pamela Curren

1625659389

I recommend using Scott's Heating and Air 100 times over. They were very knowledgeable, prompt, and their products are excellent. I had two new AC units installed and another one repaired. They answered all my questions, educated me on how to care for my units, and went above and beyond when to assist me even after installation when I had more questions later! I will never use anyone else and I highly recommend them !

Jessica Johnson

1624232603

Cliff was our Air conditioner specialist and was amazing. He figured out why our air condition continued to go off. He also was working late into the night, which means he would probably working overtime.

Lesli Colgan

1623358589

This company always shows up on time, very professional and I love having their service contract. I know how important it is to keep your unit running efficiently. I recommended this company to many of my friends and neighbors.

L Wright

1623170106

Great service from start to finish

john goodger

1622752606

Daniel, sales, was great!! Took the time to explain options and wasn’t pushy at all. His demeanor and professionalism really drew me in.The two install teams were fantabulous!! Very professional and courteous.

Amy Staiger

1622728865

The team that came out to replace my old AC unit were right on time and super nice guys. They made sure everything they did was 100% correct and that I was 100% happy before they left. I used them again because of the first time experience.

Eoghan DaBear

1622552285

We can always count on Cliff to maintain our equipment well. We count on his long term experience and knowledge and have never been disappointed.

Peggy Garner

1621630325

We have used Scott's since moving to Florida 5 years ago. They installed our new HVAC system after responding to an urgent situation when our prior system failed. We love them!

Nancy Marzolino

1620844149

After dealing with a different a/c company and getting unsatisfactory service (didn't repair the unit & we were without air) and no return calls, I got Scott's contact info from a friend. I called them in the morning and they were out in the afternoon. As it turned out, the repairs were too costly on an old machine and so we replaced it. The install went seamlessly! From the office point of contact to the follow up on the install every staff member was professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. We are so happy to find Scott's and look forward to working with them as the need arises!

Shelley Kelso

1620842888

I just had my AC replaced by Scott's and can't say enough about how great the experience was from start to finish. I called 7 different AC companies in the area and Dan the sales rep from Scott's stood above all the rest. Clearly explained the options and differences between the different technologies available today (Single, two Stage, Variable) and didn't try to over sell me like most other AC companies recommending I needed the most expensive unit. Dan laid out three recommended options and once he educated me on the differences, left it up to me to choose the best value for the performance I was looking for. Best experience by far! When it came to the installation, I knew I made the right choice as I saw the great attention detail and meticulous workmanship at every stage of the install. I knew this was the most critical aspect of the longevity and performance of the AC unit and it was clear Scott's trains their techs to take pride in their work. The day after install I received warranty confirmation from Bryant, which shows they submitted the paperwork ASAP. From start to finished - amazing experience and would highly recommend for anyone looking to replace their AC and not break the bank while doing it!

A C

1620311418

I had my old AC unit replaced, im happy I choose Scott's services. The installation was promptly, and the staff was courteous.

Brian Guerrero

1620128250

Very professional and took their time to answer all my questions. Great value for their service. Highly recommend.

francis bustos

1619972091

I will absolutely use Scott's Heating & Air Conditioning service again. After receiving service and requesting system installation quotes from other local HVAC companies, I was so disappointed. I turned to Scott's as a result of a recommendation/referral from a close friend. Their service did not disappoint. They were highly professional, honest and provided punctual and quality service. They have gained a loyal customer. Thank you Scott's team!

Nathan Ferrer

1619801282

These guys are truly professional. My AC unit died and had one night of a hot house with kids. They responded the following day, came within the time frame and repaired swiftly. Technician Victor was friendly and professional, didn't leave until the AC was verified working. I appreciate the business and highly recommend!

John Morillo

1619641367

Great customer service. Fast and friendly. Cliff was great. He walked and talked me through my entire system and made sure I understood how it all worked. I signed up for the maintenance plan and I have complete confidence in Scott’s!

Scott Arnold II

1619200901

Great Service!

Kevin Plenzler

1619095937

Scott's is by far the best air conditioning company I have found in Central Florida. They just installed a new A/C system at my house. The entire team was respectful, professional, and dedicated. They provide fantastic, speedy service. I have called on them for both maintenance and for the purchase of an entire system. This company has its act together. They are truly dedicated to customer service, and it shows. Prices are reasonable, and they stand behind their products. A/C is nothing to mess around with in Florida, and you can trust what you get from Scott's! Special thanks to the hard working install team: Jose, DJ, Nate, and Pablo. Those guys went above and beyond to do a spectacular job. Thanks also to the Install Manager Jeff for personally ensuring the job was going well, and to the salesperson Dan, who was exceptionally knowledgeable and quick to respond to follow up questions.

Kathy Mitchell

1617975173

Great company that has serviced our air conditioner for years. Highly recommend.

Frank Lester

1617940597

I am on a service plan with Scott's heating and air so I don't have to worry about maintaining my ac as it is done for me, very prompt service, very professional . Also with being on this service plan if any problems arise there is little to no wait time to get a tech out to fix the problem, I know this because I recently had an issue thaty they resolved for me.

Paul Southern

1616671668

Efficient and professional. The techs are super savvy and solve all our AC issues w/o any hitch.

Indian Wine Goddess, DipWSET

1615818082

Victor was on time and completed the work as expected. He answered all my questions. He was courteous, knowledgeable, and friendly. Very pleased with my service.

Shanadoaha Locklear

1615224742

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