How to compare furnace and air conditioner replacement estimates

A furnace and air conditioner estimate should explain what the contractor will do in your home—not just name a model and give one price. Put the estimates side by side and compare the work included before choosing the lowest number.

You may see the term “HVAC” on an estimate. It means heating, air conditioning, and the equipment that moves air through your home.

Ask how sizing was determined

Ask how the contractor chose the size of the new furnace or air conditioner. Your home’s layout, insulation, windows, ducts, local weather, and airflow all matter. A new unit should not automatically be the same size as the old one.

Compare installation details

Check whether each estimate includes removal of old equipment, the new furnace or air conditioner, thermostat work, refrigerant lines, drain-line work, wiring, duct changes, permits, startup testing, cleanup, and warranties. Ask how the contractor will show you and price a hidden problem before doing extra work.

Put assumptions in writing

If an estimate assumes your ducts or electrical service can stay as-is, ask what happens if the contractor finds they cannot. Ask every contractor the same questions so you can compare like for like.

A simple way to choose

Choose the estimate that clearly explains what problem it solves, what is included, and what could add cost. Do not choose based on brand, efficiency rating, or price alone. If one quote is much lower, find out what it leaves out.

For smoke, a burning smell, a gas smell, or loss of essential heating or cooling in severe weather, get qualified help promptly.

If the proposal includes a heat pump instead of a conventional air conditioner, compare the operating and installation tradeoffs in Heat pump vs. air conditioner.

Sources

• U.S. Department of Energy: Air Conditioning
• ENERGY STAR: Properly Sized HVAC Equipment

Be ready for the conversation

3 questions to ask your heating and air conditioning technician

1. 1What simple maintenance is safe for me to handle myself?
2. 2What should I take a photo of or keep an eye on before I call you?
3. 3What warning sign means I should call for help right away?