Before You Replace Your AC: Five Questions to Ask
A replacement quote is easier to evaluate when you know what the contractor has checked. Before comparing equipment names or prices, ask how the proposed work addresses the comfort problems in your home. Use these five questions to organize the conversation.
1. What is causing the problem?
Describe the rooms that feel uncomfortable, when the problem occurs and the repairs already performed. Ask the contractor to explain the diagnosis before recommending equipment. An itemized repair option and an itemized replacement option give you something concrete to compare. Keep the written findings with your maintenance records.
2. How was the right equipment size determined?
The old unit’s size is not a complete explanation for the next unit’s size. Ask whether the proposal includes a heating and cooling load calculation based on your home. The U.S. Department of Energy’s building-science guidance describes load calculations and recognized sizing methods. Ask what information was used and request a copy of the calculation.
3. Have airflow and ducts been checked?
A new outdoor unit does not explain how air will reach each room. Ask how the installer will evaluate airflow and the duct system, and whether the bid includes needed duct work. ENERGY STAR’s quality-installation guidance identifies equipment sizing, airflow, refrigerant charge and duct evaluation as important parts of the installation. Ask what will be measured when the work is finished.
4. What does the written price include?
Request the model numbers, installation scope, schedule and warranty information in writing. Ask which items are included and which could become additional work. ENERGY STAR’s contractor-selection guidance recommends written, itemized estimates. When you compare two bids, mark the differences rather than assuming the lowest number describes the same work.
5. What will I receive after installation?
Ask for the equipment manuals, warranty information, maintenance instructions and a record of the completed installation checks. Agree how any remaining comfort concern will be reported. A short walkthrough lets you ask questions while the installer is present, instead of trying to reconstruct the explanation later.
Take this checklist to your appointment
Write down the diagnosis, sizing method, airflow and duct findings, complete installed price, and handover documents. If an answer is unclear, ask for it in plain language before approving the work. The purpose is to understand the proposed solution and make a decision with comparable information.
Sources: U.S. Department of Energy Building Science Education; ENERGY STAR quality-installation and contractor-selection guidance. This is an illustrative article for a fictional account, not advice based on an inspection of a particular home.