If you’re thinking about installing a heat pump, getting multiple quotes is the best thing you can do. It will help you compare your options and find the best product at the best price.
But juggling multiple quotes can be confusing. It might even leave you wondering why you decided to install a heat pump in the first place.
That’s why we wrote this guide.
In it, you’ll find simple, actionable tips for comparing HVAC quotes. Plus, 3 questions you should always ask before hiring a heat pump installation contractor.
How to Compare Heat Pump Quotes
You’ve read reviews. You’ve reached out to a handful of installers. You’ve asked for quotes.
Now you’ve got a stack of estimates on your kitchen table that are hundreds or even thousands of dollars apart. Is one contractor overpriced? Or are the others cutting corners?
Instead of just scanning for the lowest number, look at these details:
Equipment Details
Not all heat pump systems are equal, even if they all say “heat pump.”
- Brand & Model: Is one quote using a well-known brand? A higher price could reflect better performance, reliability, and warranty support.
- System Size: Did your contractor do a load calculation? Look for the tonnage to see what size heat pump they’re proposing and ask them how they got that number. One might be recommending a properly sized system based on a load calculation while another is just guessing.
- Distribution: If the system is ductless, how many heads is the contractor quoting you? More heads will cost more, but may also be what you need for proper distribution. If it’s ducted, are they including ductwork and vent modifications?
Efficiency Ratings
One of the easiest ways to compare heat pump quotes is to look at the energy efficiency ratings.
Every heat pump has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER):
- Tells you how efficient the heat pump is
- SEER ratings for heat pumps can range from 14.3-22
- The higher the number, the more energy efficient the heat pump is
If a heat pump has a high SEER rating, it’s a good indication that it’s a high-quality system. Looking at SEER ratings is one of the fastest and easiest ways to compare heat pumps.
Electrical System Modifications
You might need an electrical service upgrade to install a heat pump heating and cooling system. It’s not always necessary, and many houses can go all-electric without a new electrical panel.
But, if it is needed, it should be included in your quote.
Look at the line items to see how much the contractor is charging you for the panel upgrade, not just the heat pump installation. And, ask them to explain why it’s needed. If they can’t give you a clear explanation, they’re probably overcharging you.
3 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Heat Pump Installer
There are obvious things you should confirm before hiring an HVAC company, like making sure they’re licensed and reading Google reviews.
But if you want to make sure you’re hiring a contractor that won’t rip you off and will install a system that actually works for your home, there are three important questions you need to ask:
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Did you perform a Manual J load calculation for my home?
A load calculation is the only way to determine the right system size for your home. If the contractor is guessing or using “rule of thumb” sizing based on square footage, you’ll likely end up with a system that’s too big (wastes energy & money) or too small (won’t heat/cool effectively).
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Are you familiar with rebates and will you help me apply?
There are thousands of dollars in incentives available for heat pump installations in California, from IRA rebates to federal tax credits and utility rebates.
A good contractor will be able to tell you what’s available and help you apply. If they don’t know much about rebates, it’s not a good sign. You’re better off looking for a contractor who’s tapped into the rebate market and can help you save.
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Did you look at my home’s insulation?
A heat pump is only as good as the home it’s in. If your house is poorly insulated or leaky, your heat pump will have to work harder and cost more to run. A good HVAC contractor will look at your whole home and let you know if there are insulation or air leakage issues you should solve before you install a heat pump.
Find a Reliable Heat Pump Contractor through the Clean Energy Connection
Choosing the right contractor can make or break your heat pump project. The best equipment in the world won’t perform well if it isn’t installed correctly.
That’s why it pays to work with an experienced heat pump expert.
The Clean Energy Connection makes it easy to find a heat pump installer in California that you can trust. Our free, easy-to-use directory is built specifically for California homeowners. It connects you with vetted contractors who specialize in clean energy upgrades, including heat pump installation.