A new air conditioner is a big investment for your home, and the cost of your system will vary depending on several different factors. That’s why air conditioning contractors provide customers with estimates for the cost of new systems. Unfortunately, not every contractor provides a good or trustworthy estimate. Today we’re going to help you ensure your estimates are performed right by talking about what to look for in air conditioner estimates from St. Louis area contractors!
What is an air conditioner estimate?
An air conditioner estimate is the projected cost of installing a new air conditioner in your home. When performed correctly, an estimate will accurately tell you how much you can expect to pay for your installation and will not leave out any hidden fees. You can use an estimate to help budget for your new system and also help you choose the right air conditioning contractor.
What to look for in an air conditioner estimate
- Free and no obligation. First and foremost, you should not be charged for an air conditioning estimate. This should be a free service that includes absolutely no obligations. If a contractor tries to charge you for an estimate, move on to someone else.
- Load calculation is performed. A low-quality contractor might present you with estimates before actually performing any sort of measurements on your home. This should be a huge red flag. The only way for a contractor to know what size of an air conditioner is right for your home is to perform a cooling load calculation. Because the size of your system will directly affect its cost, you should not accept any estimates from contractors who do not perform a load calculation on your home first.
- Various efficiency options are presented. Air conditioners come with a variety of different efficiency ratings. The higher the SEER rating of a system, the more that system will cost. Your contractor should provide you with a range of different efficiency options so that you can compare them and make a more informed decision. In addition, your contractor should be able to explain the long-term savings that a higher efficiency system can provide.
- A time table is provided. Your estimate should give you an idea of how long the installation will take.
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- Options for advanced features are laid out. Your estimate should include options for advanced features like a zoning system, variable speed air handler, and two-stage cooling that will all help improve comfort and efficiency levels in your home.
- Financing options are included. An estimate from a high-quality contractor should include financing options that will make it easier for you to pay for your new system.
- Estimate is in writing. Estimates should not be a handshake or verbal agreement. Instead, an estimate should be provided in writing before any work is performed. That way, you can refer to the estimate if a contractor tries to charge you much more for your installation than what was originally quoted.
If you have any questions about air conditioner estimates, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Jerry Kelly, your St. Louis air conditioning contractor. We provide service all over the St. Louis area, including towns like Dardenne Prairie, Des Peres, and Frontenac, MO.
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