HVAC quote checklist

King County, Washington · A homeowner's checklist to prepare for and compare written heating and cooling estimates.

For every proposal you receive, check whether it states each of these in writing. “Not stated” is a question to ask — not an automatic disqualifier.

• Equipment. Manufacturer and exact model numbers, system type, capacity and efficiency rating.
• Sizing. A load calculation (Manual J) or another stated basis for the capacity selected.
• Ductwork. Whether ducts were evaluated, and any modifications, sealing or airflow testing included.
• Electrical. Circuits, disconnects and panel work — included, excluded, or by others.
• Permits. Mechanical and electrical permits and inspections: who pulls them, and are fees in the price?
• Refrigerant work. Line set new or reused; nitrogen purge while brazing; evacuation and charge verification.
• Condensate. Drain routing, pump if needed, and safety switches.
• Startup & commissioning. Documented startup, airflow and temperature checks — not just “turn it on.”
• Price. Total installed price, what is excluded, deposit and payment schedule, and how long the quote is valid.
• Rebates & financing. Any incentives the price assumes, stated separately from the equipment price.
• Warranties. Equipment warranty, labor warranty, and who you call for each.
• Cleanup & disposal. Removal of the old equipment and condition the home is left in.

Have two or three proposals already? Run them through the AI quote comparison and bring the “not stated” items back to each contractor as questions.

Reference materials

• ENERGY STAR: 10 tips for hiring a heating and cooling contractor
• ACCA: Manual S residential equipment selection
• U.S. Department of Energy: heat pump systems
• Washington L&I: verify a contractor