Replacing your heating and cooling system can cost thousands of dollars. In the long run, if you don’t hire the right contractor, it can cost you more than just the annual scheduled maintenance.
Two common mistakes HVAC contractors make are not acknowledging a home’s insulation condition and not accepting a home as a system. Either error can result in installing a unit that’s not the right size for the house, which can cost extra money each month.
Before you invite an HVAC contractor into your home, it’s a good idea to make a call to one of Clark Public Utilities’ energy counselors at 360-992-3355 to talk through energy efficiency priorities and find out what rebates are available. Many questions can be answered over the phone. If a home visit is needed, it’s free and can help prepare you to speak more confidently to an HVAC contractor. The utility also maintains a list of contractors participating in its contractor network, which is a good place to start when gathering bids.
During a home energy review, the energy counselor will conduct a visual inspection of your home. He or she will check your home’s insulation levels and air leaks. The counselor can also advise you of programs for weatherization, or heating and cooling that may save you money.
Energy counselors won’t provide advice on specific HVAC units or models, but can help explain the home type and appropriate types of systems. Fall is a peak time for inspections, so call early to speak with a counselor.
After counseling, you’re ready to find a reliable, professional contractor. Ask family, friends and neighbors for recommendations. Reference the utility’s contractor network database at www.clarkpublicutilities.com, then check out the companies online. After you’ve researched several, narrow down your choices. Ask any of interest for references. And note that to be included in the Clark Public Utilities contractor network, businesses must provide a license, bond, insurance and proof of specific and current HVAC training related to energy efficiency. The utility does not guarantee work performed by participants in the network, but it’s a good place to start when researching options.
Washington State law mandates that contractors obtain a business license, a contractor’s surety bond (or an assigned bank account) and show proof of liability insurance coverage. The law also requires them to know safety requirements for their employees and subcontractors. This law provides you a recourse if your property is damaged, someone is hurt, or a job is left unfinished. It’s important you gain copies of these before accepting any work. Often, this information is included with the contractor’s estimate of the work.
When heating and cooling system work is done as part of a utility rebate or incentive program, all work is overseen by a third- party program administrator and a percentage of all the contractor installations are inspected to determine the work was done correctly, and that the customer is happy.
Another advantage of working with contractors on the utility’s list is that they will handle the paperwork you need to meet Clark Public Utilities’ program requirements. They are also required to give you a written estimate. Whether you use someone from the utility contractors’ list or not, insist on a written estimate and get multiple bids.
While legitimate contractors do seek business via the phone, beware of scams. Ask if the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. Request proof. If a solicitor cannot provide these documents, do not proceed. If you are approached by a contractor who is not licensed, bonded or insured in Washington, consider calling Washington’s Report-a-Fraud line at 1-888-811-5974 and report the company.
Still have questions about hiring a contractor? Visit the state Labor and Industries site at www.lni.wa.gov/ and search on “how to hire a contractor.”
Energy Adviser is written by Clark Public Utilities. Send questions to ecod@clarkpud.com or to Energy Adviser, c/o Clark Public Utilities, P.O. Box 8900, Vancouver, WA 98688.
