When it’s time to replace or upgrade your HVAC system, one of the first steps is scheduling an estimate with a professional. But you may be wondering: are HVAC estimates free? And what should you expect during the process?
In this article, I’ll walk you through what to expect during an HVAC estimate, answer common questions about cost, and provide tips to help you feel confident as you plan for this major home upgrade.
How Much Does an HVAC Estimate Cost?
One of the most common questions homeowners have is whether HVAC estimates come with a cost. In most cases, reputable HVAC companies, including Five Star Home Services, offer free in-home HVAC estimates for new installations or system replacements. We also provide instant online quotes to make the process even more convenient.
HVAC Estimates vs. Diagnostic Fees
It’s important to note that if the estimate is tied to diagnosing an issue with your current system—for example, during a repair visit—some companies may charge a diagnostic fee. This fee typically covers the technician’s time and expertise to identify the problem and recommend a solution.
At Five Star Home Services, we prioritize transparency, so we recommend confirming any fees upfront when scheduling your appointment. This ensures there are no surprises and you fully understand what to expect.
What’s Included in an HVAC Estimate?
When we arrive at your house, here’s what you can expect:
1. We listen to your HVAC needs
We will take the time to talk with you about your needs before taking measurements. We will ask about your heating and cooling concerns, energy efficiency goals, and any specific requirements you have.
2. We perform a professional HVAC load calculation
We will measure your home’s size (square footage), your ceiling heights, the number and size of windows, the direction your windows face, and other factors.
Then, we will use this information to calculate the load.
3. We Determine the Proper Size HVAC Equipment
The parameters of this calculation, also known as the Manual Load Calculation, could be the subject of its own article. Nevertheless, it is extremely important. This is a process that allows us to properly “size” a home for a new HVAC system.
Once we’ve calculated the size and looked at the ductwork, it will tell us the exact size of HVAC equipment needed to properly heat and/or cool your home.
4. We Provide Recommendations and Options
We will then present you with several different options. Usually, we have a budget-friendly option, a midline option, and a high-tech efficiency option.
How to Prepare for an HVAC Estimate
Before the appointment:
- Make a list of any issues or concerns with your current system.
- Have a copy of your utility bills for the past few months to discuss energy efficiency.
- Clear access to your furnace, air conditioner, and other HVAC equipment.
Questions to Ask During an HVAC Estimate
To make the most of your HVAC estimate, consider asking the following questions:
- Is this the right system size for my home?
- Are there any energy-efficient models available?
- What warranties do you offer on the equipment and labor?
- Can you provide a breakdown of the costs?
- How long will the installation or repair take?
How Long Does an HVAC Estimate Take?
Typically, an HVAC estimate takes about 1 to 2 hours. This allows enough time for a thorough inspection, discussions about your needs, and preparation of an accurate quote.
When Should You Schedule an HVAC Estimate?
The best time to schedule an HVAC estimate is before your system fails. Ideally, schedule estimates during the off-season—spring or fall—when technicians have more availability and you’re less likely to experience delays.
Are you ready for an HVAC estimate? If so, give us a call!
As you can see, there’s a lot to think about regarding a new HVAC installation. However, a little bit of homework and a few questions can help you get the best system for your money — or one that will keep you comfortable for years to come.
For more information or to schedule a free estimate with Five Star Home Services, call us today at (833) 405-8009. I’d be more than happy to discuss your options with you.
