Finding a trustworthy HVAC contractor can be challenging. Here's how to identify the good ones.
Essential Qualifications
Required Credentials - **CSLB License:** California contractor license (C-20) - **Insurance:** Liability and workers' comp - **EPA Certification:** For refrigerant handling - **Local business license:** For your city
Verify Credentials - CSLB website: Check license status - Ask for insurance certificates - Request references
Red Flags to Avoid
Warning Signs - No physical address - Pressure to decide immediately - Cash-only requests - No written estimates - Won't pull permits - Significantly lowest price - Arrives in unmarked vehicle
Too Good to Be True If a price seems impossibly low, it often means: - Unlicensed workers - No permits - Poor quality equipment - Bait and switch tactics
Where to Find Contractors
Good Sources - Referrals from friends/neighbors - Manufacturer websites (dealer locators) - ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) - Local trade associations - Utility company recommendations
Research Online - Check reviews (Google, Yelp, BBB) - Look for response to negative reviews - Verify physical location - Check years in business
Getting Quotes
Best Practices - Get 3+ written quotes - Compare apples to apples - Ask about permits included - Understand warranty terms - Get timeline in writing
What Quotes Should Include - Equipment model numbers - Full scope of work - Permit costs - Warranty details - Payment terms - Timeline
Questions to Ask
About the Company - How long in business? - Do you pull permits? - Who does the actual work? - What areas do you serve?
About the Project - What equipment do you recommend? - Why that specific recommendation? - What's included in the price? - What warranties apply?
About Service - Do you offer maintenance plans? - What's your emergency response? - Who do I call with problems?
Evaluating Quotes
Compare Carefully - Same or equivalent equipment? - Same scope of work? - Permits included? - Removal of old equipment? - Warranty terms?
Price Isn't Everything Consider: - Company reputation - Warranty support - Communication quality - Professionalism
Contract Essentials
Should Include - Detailed scope of work - Equipment specifications - Total price and payment schedule - Timeline - Permit responsibility - Warranty terms - Change order process
Never Sign - Blank contracts - Contracts without details - Under high pressure
Bay Area Specifics
Local Considerations - Title 24 compliance knowledge - HERS testing arrangements - Local permit processes - BayREN program familiarity - PG&E rebate experience
Climate Knowledge Good Bay Area contractors understand: - Coastal vs. inland needs - Fog and salt air impacts - Older home challenges - Mini-split applications
Maintenance Relationship
After Installation - Establish maintenance schedule - Understand warranty requirements - Know who to call for service - Keep records
Choose carefully—your HVAC contractor relationship may last for years. A good contractor is worth paying a bit more for.