Get the Right Start with the Right Contractor

Starting Your Search

1. Ask for a certified HVAC technician. Keep in mind that not all states require certification.
2. Your contractor should be licensed, well trained, and experienced. Ask your contractor about his or her training, experience, and membership in contractor associations. Ask if they are insured and bonded.
3. Contractors should know how to properly size your home’s heating and cooling system. Don’t use a contractor who wants to size your unit solely on the square footage of your house.

• Calculate equipment size using computer software or professional
guidelines such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s “Manual J”.
• Spend time walking your house and asking questions while measuring
ceilings, floors, windows, and walls, and checking insulation throughout.
• Provide you with a copy of the load calculations, which can be
useful for comparing bids.

Prior to Installation

1. The contractor who gives you the lowest bid may not be the best choice. Paying slightly more may get you better equipment and better service. Carefully evaluate each contractor’s proposal before making a final decision.
2. Always obtain a written contract or proposal before allowing your contractor to install a new system.
3. Most contractors offer maintenance agreements to keep your system running smoothly. Ask about the warranty length, what it covers, and if there are extended labor warranties available.
4. If your house or water heater uses combustion (burns natural gas or fuel oil), you should have a house pressurization test performed to make certain there is no danger of “backdrafting.” Backdrafting is when fumes from the combustion process are pulled back into the home, threatening the health and safety of occupants.
5. Make sure your contractor works with approved A2L refrigerants. Beginning in 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will require that our industry switch to new, lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) A2L refrigerants used in HVAC equipment. To be compliant with this change, Intertherm uses R-454B as the A2L refrigerant in all new products. Good contractors own and use refrigerant recovery equipment and are certified to handle refrigerants in heating and cooling systems. Ask for proof of certification if applicable to your state.
6. Ask your contractor to inspect your ducts for leaks, incomplete connections, and compatibility with the rest of your system. As much as 30% of the efficiency of your system is a result of your duct work, so overlooking ducts may compromise comfort and cost you money. Ideally, your contractor should use diagnostic equipment and fix leaks using a quality duct sealant. They may also recommend changes to your duct system.

During Installation

1. If possible, have the contractor install outside units on the north or east side of your home, out of direct sunlight. They should also leave plenty of room for free air flow on all sides, and at least four feet at the top. The area should be free of debris and shrubbery.
2. Have your contractor select an install location that provides for ease of maintenance. They should make sure the inside coil can be reached for easier cleaning. This coil should be cleaned every two years. The air filter should also be easy to remove and should be cleaned or changed whenever it is dirty (this can be monthly during peak season).
3. Your air conditioner or heat pump condenser should always match the indoor coil. Your contractor should replace both coils at the same time for maximum efficiency.

At Intertherm, we work with a large network of reputable contractors who know our products and can help you find the solution that will deliver maximum operational efficiency for your home.

Not sure where to start? Use our Dealer Locator tool to find an Intertherm contractor in your area.