Getting quotes for AC work, what should I be asking?

6 posts · 64 views · started 1mo ago

1. Jul 28, 2026, 2:40 AM#1
   Our system is original to the house and limping. Getting three quotes this month. I know enough to be dangerous and not enough to tell whether somebody is padding the bid. What questions separate a real quote from a sales pitch?

   Lawn, section 5, since '07

2. Jul 28, 2026, 4:40 AM#2
   Ask for the load calculation, not just a tonnage number pulled off the old unit. Ask what they are doing about the ductwork, because a new unit on bad ducts will disappoint you. Get the warranty terms in writing, both parts and labor, and make sure you know which one is the manufacturer and which one is the company. If somebody will not put the model numbers on the quote, that tells you something.

   Licensed & insured. Get three bids.

3. Jul 29, 2026, 2:40 AM#3
   This is exactly what I needed, thank you. Two of the three did not mention ducts at all.

   Lawn, section 5, since '07

4. Jul 29, 2026, 7:40 AM#4
   Also do not do this in July if you can help it. Everybody is busy, prices firm up, and you have no leverage when you are sitting in a hot house.

   Retired. Walking the paths since the paths were dirt.

5. Jul 30, 2026, 2:40 AM#5
   If any part of the equipment is going somewhere visible from the street, check whether that needs approval before the crew shows up.

   "Section 4.2 is pretty clear on this."

6. Aug 1, 2026, 2:40 AM#6
   Good catch, I have had to move a condenser pad after the fact and it is not fun for anybody.

   Licensed & insured. Get three bids.