11 Must-Ask Questions Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor:

A Homeowner’s Checklist

1.) Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Why it matters: Licensing verifies that your contractor complies with state and local requirements. Bonding and insurance can potentially help shield you from liability and provide recourse if issues arise, such as property damage or unfinished work. An EPA 608 certification is required nationwide for anyone handling refrigerant, regardless of state or local licensing rules.

What to ask:

• Can you provide your license number and proof of insurance?
  
• Do you carry workers’ compensation and general liability insurance?
  
• Are you familiar with local permitting requirements and inspections?
  

2.) Would you share references and reviews?

Why it matters: Past customer experiences serve as reliable indicators of future experiences. Ask for local references and check reviews about punctuality, workmanship, and responsiveness.

What to ask:

• Can I speak with recent customers who have similar projects?
  
• Do you have before/after examples (duct redesigns, comfort upgrades, energy savings)?
  
• Are you recognized as a Daikin Comfort Pro contractor?
  

3.) Will you perform a Manual J load calculation for my home?

Why it matters: A Manual J load calculation, the industry-standard sizing method, assesses factors such as square footage, insulation, window performance, climate, and more to determine the appropriate capacity for your home or space. Oversized systems cycle on and off too frequently, reducing comfort and humidity control, and can increase utility bills.¹ Undersized systems, on the other hand, can struggle to keep up, especially in extreme weather.²

What to ask:

• Will you complete Manual J for equipment sizing?
  
• How will you account for room-by-room airflow, sun exposure, and insulation levels?
  
• Can you walk me through the sizing rationale and show your calculation summary?
  

4.) How will you evaluate my ductwork, airflow, and static pressure?

Why it matters: Even correctly sized equipment can underperform if ductwork is leaky, restricted, or poorly designed. Proper airflow and static pressure are essential for comfort and efficiency. Duct issues can reduce system performance, increase noise, and shorten equipment life.³

What to ask:

• Do you conduct a duct leakage test or measure static pressure?
  
• Will you inspect for kinks, undersized runs, poor transitions, or inadequate returns?
  
• If needed, will you propose duct modifications to meet manufacturer specs?
  

5.) Which system do you recommend—and why?

Why it matters: Your home’s needs, climate, budget, and preferences will determine whether you choose a heat pump, such as a Daikin FIT, a gas furnace with AC, or a ductless mini-split. The best contractors understand system features and benefits. They should customize their recommendations based on your comfort goals—quiet operation, humidity control, maintaining steady temperatures, efficiency, and being all-electric—and also consider long-term energy and cost savings.

What to ask:

• What are the pros and cons of a heat pump vs. a furnace/AC for my region?
  
• Do you offer variable-speed or inverter systems for enhanced comfort and efficiency?
  

6.) Will you provide a detailed written estimate and scope of work?

Why it matters: Transparent, itemized proposals prevent misunderstandings and hidden charges. A quality estimate should include equipment model numbers, labor, permitting (if applicable), miscellaneous materials, and any additional service plans.

What to ask:

• Will the proposal list equipment (with model numbers), accessories (thermostat, filters, IAQ), and labor?
  
• Are permits, inspections, and disposal included?
  
• What’s not included (electrical upgrades, duct modifications, attic platforms)?
  
• Will you test system performance after installation (airflow, refrigerant charge, static pressure)?
  

7.) What installation standards and best practices do you follow?

Why it matters: Industry data shows improper installation can decrease system efficiency and shorten its lifespan. Proper refrigerant charge, line set sizing, cleanliness, electrical connections, condensate management, and airflow setup are essential.⁴

What to ask:

• Do you use an installation verification process, such as Daikin’s SkyportCare Cloud Commissioning for Quality Installation Verification, so that I can get a report?
  
• Will you properly size and insulate line sets and verify correct charge via manufacturer specs?
  
• Do you install condensate safety switches and drain lines to code?
  
• Will you set up the thermostat?
  

8.) What limited warranties, service agreements, and guarantees do you offer?

Why it matters: Strong manufacturer limited warranties and service agreements can help safeguard your budget. Ask about parts, compressor, and unit replacement coverage, plus response times for limited warranty service.

What to ask:

• What are the terms of the manufacturer’s limited warranty, and do they require registration?
  
• Do you offer extended service plans? Any exclusions?
  
• How do limited warranty claims work, and who handles the paperwork?
  

9.) Do you offer maintenance or extended service plans, and what’s included?

Why it matters: Routine maintenance can help preserve efficiency, catch issues early, and extend equipment life. A good service plan includes seasonal tune-ups and priority service.

What to ask:

• How many visits per year?
  
• What inspections and cleanings are included?
  
• Will you check refrigerant levels, electrical connections, airflow, and condensate drains?
  
• Do you offer filter subscriptions or indoor air quality add-ons?
  

10.) What payment options or rebates are available?*

Why it matters: High-efficiency systems may qualify for state, local, and/or utility rebates. Discuss financing programs and payment options with your contractor. Have your contractor complete the Daikin Pricing and Rebates Calculator with the recommended equipment to compare potential rebates, estimated energy savings, and cost of ownership.

What to ask:

• Are payment options available? What are the terms and promotional options?
  
• Can you help me find local utility rebates or federal incentives?
  
• Can you provide a total cost of ownership comparison (monthly payment vs. energy savings)?
  

*Financing for qualified buyers is provided by third-party lenders through the contractor. Financing options are subject to credit approval and the lender’s terms and conditions. Financing options depend on your purchase amount, may vary by dealer and location, and may not be available in all states. Financing options available are subject to change at any time. Contact your Daikin Comfort Pro for more information.

**Daikin Comfort Technologies North America, Inc. is not a lender. The Pricing and Rebates Calculator (Calculator) is for informational purposes only and is not an offer of credit. There is no guarantee that the user can obtain financing at the rate or on the other terms input into the Calculator.

11.) What’s your installation timeline and process?

Why it matters: Clear communication reduces stress and helps you plan. Good contractors set expectations for permitting (as needed), installation-day logistics, cleanup, and post-install testing.

What to ask:

• What is the expected timeline from deposit to installation?
  
• How will you protect my home (drop cloths, shoe covers, cleanup)?
  
• Who will be on-site (technician certifications), and how will you verify performance at completion?
  
• Will you walk me through operation, maintenance, and limited warranty registration?
  

Red HVAC Contractor flags to watch for

• Verbal-only quotes with vague scope
  
• No load calculation (or “rule-of-thumb” sizing)
  
• Skipping duct inspection or airflow measurement
  
• No permit or inspection when required
  
• Pressure tactics or unusually low prices that cut corners on quality
  

1. New York State, NYS Clean Heat, Air Source Heat Pumps Don’t Oversize. July, 2023.

2. U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technology Office, HVAC Design and Implementation Guide. December 2025.

3. Energystar.gov, Benefits of Duct Sealing. December 2025.

4. U.S. Department of Energy. Office of Efficiency & Renewable Energy, Residential HVAC Installation Practices: A Review of Research Findings. June 2018.