Picking the best air conditioner installation contractor can be a challenge. There are thousands of AC contractors in California. Not all are qualified to meet your needs. Only with the proper expertise and equipment can an installer ensure a system will work safely, reliably, and efficiently. However, you can take a few steps to find the right air conditioner installation company.
Working with a professional AC contractor is important for many reasons. It ensures your safety and well-being as air conditioner installation is a delicate process. A dependable cooling system is also an investment; when correctly installed, it will keep your household comfortable for many years.
That being said, here’s how you can find a qualified air conditioning installer:
Gather basic information you can provide a contractor when you call them, such as:
Knowing the company that installed and serviced the unit can help. At the very least, it will provide the new contractor with some useful details. Or, you can try contacting the original installer if it’s still in business.
If a family member, friend, colleague, or neighbor has previously recommended a home services company, and you weren’t disappointed, ask if they’d recommend an AC installer. You can also try contacting local trade organizations. They can provide you with names of members that meet their standards. Once you have a list of company names recommended by a trusted source, you can begin your research.
If all else fails, online reviews are abundant. You can find them by using search terms such as “best air conditioner installation contractors near me” or “AC installation in Los Angeles”.
When reading reviews, look for write-ups on the type of installation you need. A negative review here and there doesn’t necessarily disqualify a contractor. The reviewer’s home and installation requirements may have differed completely from yours. For example, they may have dealt with incompatible equipment or an outdated duct system that had to be replaced. Or, they may have unreasonably expected the contractor to replace a part that was no longer available.
Therefore, if you want to update to a more energy-efficient unit or a zoned AC system, look for customers who have hired the company for such services.
A contractor must acquire a license from the state of California. To become licensed, a technician must complete an HVAC educational program and on-the-job training and have at least four years of journeyman-level experience. Other credentials a contractor should have include North American Technician Excellence and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification.
You won’t necessarily receive the best quality service. Always check what you’re getting for the quoted price. If the company provides subpar service, cuts corners, or uses lower-quality equipment/materials, you’ll pay more later for repairs or an early replacement. Exceptional service may cost more upfront but will save you in the long term. However, asking about special offers and rebates is a good idea.
To evaluate an air conditioner installation contractor’s quality of service, look at how they handle their process. For example, you should look for the following in a reputable AC installer:
Before hiring an AC installer, ask how long they’ve been operating, whether they’re licensed and insured, and what training and qualifications their technicians have. Also, ask about warranty details and if they work with an AC brand you prefer. Inquire whether you’ll be billed for the estimate as well. A free estimate saves you money if the contractor cannot install a unit that meets your needs or you’re not satisfied with their quote or quality of service.
NexGen is a leading AC installation company in Southern California. We help customers decide on a new system and safely and correctly install the latest, high-efficiency ACs. You can benefit from lower energy bills, reduced maintenance costs, and increased comfort and indoor air quality. For help determining the best system for your home and to request a free quote for air conditioner installation, call NexGen at (833) 729-9735 today.
