When buying a new heat pump, selecting the right heat pump contractors is just as important as the brand you buy. Here are some ideas on how to do that.

When buying a new or replacement heat pump, selecting the right heat pump contractors or installers is almost important as the brand you buy. In fact, many long term field studies have shown that the life of a heat pump is determined more by who installs and maintains it than the quality of the model. So if you need to choose a good heat pump contractor, then you need to read this article.

Which Heat Pump Contractor Should I Select?

Make short list of heat pump contractors who have been recommended to you by family, friends or co-workers. Have each of the ones on your list come by your house and give you a written estimate of what you need done. Make sure they specify and detail out such items as the brand names, model numbers and quality of equipment they want to install.

In the written estimates, also if possible have them list how long they think the job will take to finish, how much everything will cost (beware of “project creep” where costs increase as the job progresses) and when they think that they can start.

Be distrustful of heat pump contractors who promise you the world along with the cheapest and fastest job of all their competitors but “ONLY IF YOU ACT NOW!’. This is just a high pressure sales tactic. Feel free to ignore it.

Always make sure that you get a copy of the project details, service contracts, proposals or letters of agreement in writing. Also get a copy of the heat pump contractor’s insurance papers, especially workman’s compensation, as well as copies of the ones for property damages or liability. Without proper insurance, if something goes bad, you as the homeowner may be held partially responsible.

Be very worried if you are asked get a building permit. Call your local permit office and verify that your contractor hasn’t had their license revoked or suspended, because a heat pump contractor in good standing can always obtain the right permits. Don’t sign any contracts or agreements if you don’t understand them fully. Seek legal help if you need to.

Never pay heat pump contractors with large upfront advances. They should have enough credit to at least start the job and buy the needed materials and equipment without having to ask you for payment. Always try to pay everything after the job has been completed or at least on a payment schedule (say after each phase of the job is completed).

Don’t pay cash, only pay by check or credit card so that you have a record of your payments, in case something goes wrong and you need proof in your defense. Always write the check to either to heat pump contractor’s company or to an individual if you must, never just to “CASH”.

And more importantly to cut that final check or sign off any completion certificates until all work on the project has been done and inspected by proper local building department or heating and cooling agency. And even then don’t sign any thing until you are satisfied. After all you are the one who going to have live with the new heat pump.

While many heat pump contractors are reputable, hard working and experienced, you will still have be careful because even the best contractor can make a really bad mistake or just get in over his or her head with a project.