Questions for HVAC Contractors On BIDS!

You should ask questions when getting quotes for your HVAC system. Questions allow to get answers, but they also give you some idea what the contractors are thinking and why they’re thinking it.
These three questions allow you to compare the contractors and their answers. There’s more to getting a bid than just the price. Getting answers to these questions will allow you to see the value in the price you’re given.
For more information on Griffin Air, visit www.griffinair.net/
For more information on New HVAC Guide, visit www.newhvacguide.com/
Need Financing for your HVAC? Visit www.newhvacguide.com/financing
Own a Service Biz and want to grow? Visit www.newhvacguide.com/mastermi...
Our favorite products?
You can purchase Joshua's FAVORITE THERMOSTAT to date! a Honeywell 8000 Wi-Fi Thermostat by clicking here: amzn.to/3wt3Vwh
AIR CLEANER click here: amzn.to/4bGkqGB
SMART VENT click here: amzn.to/3JDfGDX
Griffin Air LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon offers a small commission on products sold through their affiliate links. Each of your purchases via our Amazon affiliation links supports our cause at no additional cost to you.
-----------Chapters--------------
0:00 Please subscribe for HVAC Tips
0:07 Intro: Getting HVAC bids
0:32 New HVAC Guide Questions for Contractors
2:25 3 Questions for HVAC Contractors
3:00 Every contractor should have an answer to this question
3:45 Why do you sell this brand or products?
5:24 What is the warranty?
6:28 Who's responsible for registering the warranty?
7:22 What upgrades do you offer? Accessories for HVAC
9:35 New HVAC Guide Perk and Information
#hvac #contractor #questions

[@wargasm25]

I'll save you the the fluff and frustration. 3:47 - Question #1 - Why do you sell what you sell(Product-wise)? 5:35 - Question #2 - Ask about warranties(and who registers them) 7:35 - Question #3 - What upgrades do they offer?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks pal

[@magictrading8903]

Even at 2x speed was like pulling teeth and still had to fast forward. Video could be a 3 line text

[@magictrading8903]

@@darylfortney8081 yea I gave him a few chances but clear that this is just garbage fluff and only trying to get 10min videos so monetized by KZbin and info is what you get in a basic google search. I thumbed down and now doesn’t show up in my feed… fooled me more than twice that was enough

[@loscarlos1951]

THANK YOU SIR!

[@WalterPine]

Thank you bro, that’s was painful 😮

[@justinperry68]

Great video, as a HVAC/R mechanic, 25 years, I believe in everything he says, but it has to be put into practice, I don’t know his company from a hole in the wall A lot of folks don’t need a VS 19 seer compressor in Canada, but I’ve ran across a bunch, sold by the largest gas supplier (that had a deal with furnace replacement for 14000)

[@NewHVACGuide]

Great point!

[@PoeLemic]

Okay, I subbed. You answered some questions on a previous video that matter to my decision making process right now, as I consider an A/C replacement in Houston, Texas. Love your content, even though, I'm not an A/C pro. I just listen & learn from Experts like you, then I am trying to apply to my current purchasing / repairing issues.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks pal

[@staysafe3618]

If you are getting a unit replaced get it before September 1st. Price increase then and another January 1st. I just got a new unit. Prices are projected to double January 1st.

[@gcd123]

May be a different topic, but I would add asking anything that is out of the ordinary with your requirements or something that especially concerns you. This can become a very helpful discriminator. I had an AC system installed years ago. The house had no ductwork. I had converted an enclosed porch to living space and was concerned with getting AC out there and how kludgey it would be. I got one dismissive answer, one that was kludgey and finally one that elegantly took a shelf in a kitchen cabinet to cleanly get a register in the new room. It wasn't the cheapest bid, but I was very happy with the results.

[@BrianAvet]

I love the hvac business and learning as much as possible from all aspects. Thanks for the videos.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!

[@DennisMurphey]

we have the April Air 5000 is it comprable to the 2200 0r 2210 air cleaner? should we consider upgrades for better dust control???

[@markwoten6679]

I got an old Rheem system (propane) with condenser unit. The A coil and condenser unit are shot. So I’m in the process of getting quotes. Those three questions plus many more I’ve asked. So right now I’m between a new furnace with either a heat pump or ac condenser unit. I know the heat pump performance go after outside temperature fall below 30ish. Being on Ohio we get those temps regularly after October. What do you recommend? What should the ballpark install figure for a new furnace, heat pump or condenser unit and thermostat?

[@robertopod1968]

Homeowners do not forget to ask. What is your labor charge when/ if something goes bad. Labor isn't covered under most manufacturers warranties after the first 3 to 6 months. And labor normally costs more than the part!

[@NewHVACGuide]

👍🏻

[@AJ-bi6ns]

Always worth asking about labor warranties if you’re doing a full replacement for that very reason.

[@dadmarsh4281]

What are your thoughts on an American Standard 3.5 ton 14 seer split system versus a Lennox 16 seer 3.5 ton split system. My quote from the the American Standard contractor is considerably less.

[@NewHVACGuide]

I’d go with the better contractor and go with what they recommend 🙂

[@Blueflameintegration]

Hello... I have a gas/ hot water furnace.. what is the average price and what brand do you suggest. The most price affordable furnace and what can I do to keep the cost of the system down? I'm working on very limited funds right now and winter is coming very soon. I'm so screwed and I feel helpless right now.

[@dangobills2076]

I enjoy your videos very educational. Need a whole unit at this time considering Amana two stage 16 sear. They offer 10 year parts and I can pay for additional $700 for 10 years of labor. Includes one year of maintenance with filter after that I want a plan year to year for check ups. If I have 10 years and 10 years do I need check ups it’s covered. ? $110 a year extra

[@bluesdirt6555]

I’m getting a new system and would really like a door installed so I can take a look at the Acoil ?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Like a clear door? Cased coils will have a cover with screws you can take off

[@sarahmann1333]

This is super helpful! I wish you were in Northern Virginia!

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thank you!

[@johnwilliams4806]

Hey, thanks for all the info, really helpful.. how do I get ahold of that hvac guide you talk about

[@NewHVACGuide]

NewHVACguide.com

[@blahsaysme2u]

@HVAC Guide for Homeowners we have tried to get bids/estimates in Roanoke va since last year; everyone i have contacted gives a bid by just giving me a number without any explanation how or what they are billing me for. when asked- "we only give lump sum estimates".....i have never had any other trade act this way. even going to car mechanic they can at the least break down the cost of materials vs labor. any explanation or suggestion on getting a better estimate?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Hi James, I responded to you on a different video. That said, I'd say almost every decent HVAC company offers turnkey pricing on larger jobs even if they itemize repair work.

[@sheritacox774]

What about if the contractor recommends a new zone board? System is 17 years old and we are considering full HVAC (furnace and condenser) replacement since there appears to be a leak. The cost of the zone board is significant.

[@jahneychriast2141]

1. Why do you sell this brand? 2. Ask about warranties and hw it all work? 3. Who is going to register the warranty? 4. What are the upgrades the contractor offers? Thanks man for offering to help plebs like me 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@NewHVACGuide]

You’re welcome pal!

[@simmons6014]

Thanks

[@cijojohn]

I live in NJ .. your video is helpful..i want to replace my central ac and 3 zone furnace(gas). One guy quoted $11.7 k for Rheem furnace and $11.7 k for 4 ton Rheem ac.. do you think it's reasonable or more

[@KINGTERIK]

I'm looking to purchase a new system. My first contractor sells Trane, what is your opinion on that brand

[@NewHVACGuide]

They’re in the top tier of brands.

[@PoeLemic]

Okay, I was gonna say I wish you flashed that link on the screen, but I see it in the Notes / Desc. Also, I wish you'd really discuss two stage and Variable, and pros / cons. I understand single stage well and understand both others in concept. But, I don't know if pricing is worth it for variable. 2-Stage looks affordable but still more costly. Yet, I plan on buying the labor warranty protection (in Texas they offer years 3-10 covered for $600 each unit, and 2 yr is included in new system), then parts covered by manufacturer for 10 years. So, that looks good. But, I do concern myself with years 11 onward and what costs will be for a more complicated unit. But, some House-Remodeled & Flipper on YT talks about never getting anything other than an one-stage, yet I see the benefits if you own the house and stay. So, those are things you could talk about.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks. Check out my video on inverter systems where I go through stages and inverters/variable speed

[@glorianunez4923]

Thank you for the information. I think people don't appreciate videos like this . No one is paying to see videos .If anyone don't like it don't watch it but, there is no need to write bad comments .I might be giving you a call .I am looking for HVAC replacement. I am living in Springfield Virginia.

[@joea104]

Please advise me, I live in Dallas Tx, and I'm getting ready to install a new unit on my house I don't have any propane My current furnace is a 4 ton that's set up through electricity and the AC guy that came by said I can get by with Just a 3 ton Air Conditioner or he Is trying to sell me on a Heat pump it's a $600 Price difference. But I don't even think it's a good idea to get the heat pump because in texas it stays hot for about 9 months of the 12. But what would you recommend?

[@NewHVACGuide]

I would recommend getting more than one opinion but then I would defer to your local experts. They know your market way better than I do

[@LeuCustomKnives]

I asked him 200 questions or more. Kept him here for 3 hours. 🤣

[@jaredbraswell6343]

Do you recommend changing the line set when going from an older r22 system to new 410?

[@NewHVACGuide]

We try to change them whenever possible. However, it’s very possible to reuse them if they are properly flushed and pressure tested.

[@jaredbraswell6343]

Thank you!

[@frab113]

@Reign Enrique scam

[@r134awhole5]

Probably don’t really need to change them. 1970 house on third condenser and second furnace. 52 year old copper and drain. No leaks in Orlando.

[@aarongrubbs8311]

Is 8kish reasonable for a full install (duct work already there, it's a new house where it was stolen) of a 3 ton 16 Seer American Gas Pak?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Every market is different. That price would be very reasonable in mine.

[@curtb1560]

I I gave that price to my customers I would be ran off, that’s high for my area but wish I could get that

[@habibhoward7159]

Get more quotes? but if 8000 is alot then maybe consider going to school for HVAC and work in the field for years and hurt your back and buy the 3 to 5000 dollars worth of tools to even install it then boom you can get the equipment for lets say 4000 and install yourself oh yea and cover your install for free for one year(most companies)...youll save some pennys

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I would ask what is your hourly labor rate. Ii just got a quote that included 3 years labor, 10 years parts. Will they then try to work an hour and then charge me $500 because they say so?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Some repairs, a lot of companies do a “flat rate“. So they don’t charge by the hour. Usually flat rate pricing figures in the labor, materials, and all the cost of doing business including licensing, insurance, overhead, gas for the vans, etc. and profit i’m not here to argue whether or not that’s right or not. I’m just letting you know.

[@RA-IL]

Hi. Can someone help me? I recently started selling hvac systems but i am honestly lost. I underestimated the hvac sales business. I used to sell swimming pools but hvac is a new world. What do i look for in an hvac sales appointment? What questions do i ask? What determines the cost? Any other tips would be appreciated.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Hello. Most HVAC suppliers have classes you can take that go over some of these things you’re asking.

[@mikerzisu9508]

What are your thoughts on Lennox HVAC systems? 2.5 ton

[@NewHVACGuide]

I have friends that won’t install anything else.

[@mikerzisu9508]

@@NewHVACGuide that's good, but what is your opinion?

[@NewHVACGuide]

I’ve installed a few. I don’t hate them. I have other brands I like better though. That said, I would worry less about what brand you’re installing and we were about how good the contractor is.

[@woodbutcherjc]

What brands offer 10 yr parts and labor on the warranty?

[@NewHVACGuide]

I'm not aware of any "brand" that does. We offer labor warranties as a contractor.

[@opulence_prime]

Goodman. You just have to register it within in 60 days of purchase to extend it to 10 yrs.

[@wonderwhat4]

Lots of Hvac videos on youtube but watching alot of them can take too much time. I like the ones that are shorter and to the point. This one is drawn out.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry pal

[@markdixon392]

Missed the important questions. If you have an experienced and honest company, they should be able to tell you how long it will take (labor), and then the major costs of the material. Additionally there will be business expenses and profit, but that can be disclosed and then compared. You need to be able to discuss and justify the whole cost. That's the only way to compare, but your industry really doesn't like doing that and it's very frustrating. When quotes come in thousands of dollars apart, there should be a way to discover the difference. Disclose that information and then ask the customer to require the same information on competing quotes should do you well.

[@NewHVACGuide]

I agree. Transparency is missing with most

[@Schlumbucketreturns]

Yeah, the HVAC industry is shady as all Hell. A local company quoted me $58,000 for a ductless mini-split system, and then flipped out when I tried to get a better breakdown of their quote. They had a $2500 air handler listed as $15000 in their quote, and all the other parts were similarly inflated like something from a Pentagon fraud contractor. I had a rough idea of the real cost of the parts, and when I asked them about the labor required for the job (so I could estimate their total cost and the percentage of overhead/profit in their quote), they got all defensive. Ending up hiring another HVAC company that was also shady, but only after about six estimates and lots of hassles.

[@shanew7361]

@@Schlumbucketreturns Yea man I agree lot of shady hvac guys that aren't transparent. I had 4 quotes 1 place told me heat exchanger was bad but didn't tag my system. The other companies said exchanger is fine. The other 3 quotes are plus or minus 2-3 grand it's ridiculous.

[@JustinPearsonHSV]

3:06 is when questions actually start

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks!

[@kellyk8966]

2 different contractors, I asked for itemized bids. Not asking for nuts and bolts costs. Neither one would give me any breakdown. I got price+tax = total. So frustrating.

[@NewHVACGuide]

It's hard to breakdown all costs for companies. Breaking down their costs would include, the equipment, materials for installation, labor, taxes, general insurance, fleet maintenance, fleet payments, worker comp, fleet insurance, utility costs, continuing education, licensing, and on and on. So most companies do all inclusive turn key pricing.

[@r134awhole5]

Customers are just like mushrooms. It’s best to keep them in the dark.

[@tommyo8967]

One vendor needed to consult his IT to revise his quote. See ya later.

[@kathiebsn]

Anyone have to wait almost 3 months for A/C work?

[@Panther55-ip7zb]

Get to the question already!

[@r134awhole5]

So what is the 10 second answer? You never gave it. Why do you sell what you sell? So you answered question number 2. Thanks. You gave a few examples of your 3rd question. Thanks. Left us in dark with your answer to 1st question.

[@NewHVACGuide]

On purpose because that's not important. Check out my series on HVAC brands not mattering as much as installer

[@r134awhole5]

@@NewHVACGuide ok. So no answer. Why even reply

[@NewHVACGuide]

No brand is best in every market. You’re missing the point. The point of saying it in the video was that whatever Contractor you select in your local area should be able to answer the question.

[@nickyr3860]

So you won’t come to Maryland??🤔

[@NewHVACGuide]

Griffin Air does not service Maryland unfortunately

[@NoneFB]

Hi. This could be shortened to a three minute outline.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Ok thanks!

[@geezer2tech154]

I don't think your first question is likely to lead to any helpful information. I think that all of them will tell you that they think that their equipment is the best. I don't think that you are likely to hear " If I sell one hundred of these units this year, I'll get a huge kick back from the distributor. I got enough last year to pay the downpayment on my new car!" I watched a youtube video today in which the installer admits to getting kickbacks: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6vTZaRoqNyVjas Begin watching at 8;50.

[@timvala7577]

I lived in my house for 8 years. I know what my house needs. I know what it does and doesn’t do. What heating and cooling is doing from year to year. I could tell a contractor all the things I know about my house and they either can’t answer my questions or give a crap about what I want!🙄😂😂😂

[@randycoker3551]

Can you show some tech videos?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Anything specific?

[@pettyr4003]

I’ve been enjoying watching your videos. I wanted to ask your opinion. I have a 19 year old Rheem furnace and recently the system stopped working and had a strong burning smell. HVAC tech came out and turned out to be a bad run capacitor. It cost me $250. The tech said based on the age of the system, I should consider replacing. He said it’s just a matter of time before more costly parts break. Do you agree? I’ve been in the home 14 years and it’s the only expense I’ve had. I fear buying a new system and then having issues with it. I know manufacturers have warranties but they don’t cover labor.

[@NewHVACGuide]

You can make arguments for both sides. Sounds like you have certainly got your money out of it. But I’m no psychic, you could get another 10 years out of it. Who knows.

[@r134awhole5]

Keep it running as long as possible. Get an amrad capacitor and it will last a long time. Just worked on a 1986 carrier unit and it Is still going strong.

[@jhancock1575]

My “average” quality furnace lasted 28 years with a few minor repairs along the way. Unless you have a major concern or issue with the system, I would keep it longer. Make sure you have an annual safety check and tune up on it and you could possibly get another 10 plus years out of it.

[@stevebabiak6997]

The condition of the furnace’s heat exchanger is the real factor to consider when trying to decide on replacement. So at the next service, ask about that specifically, and even ask to take a look at it if possible. When the heat exchanger fails, that is almost 100% going to mean replacing the entire system.

[@josephpuchel6497]

Hey I would keep it till the AC compressor , evaporator or condenser fails. Just replacing a small part doesn’t mean you need a new system.

[@brendaspears8439]

If a coil is leaking (Carrier Infinity Heat pump) been leaking since 3 months of being installed ... always topped off or over the years new compressor or something else replaced instead. Shouldn't that coil leak be stopped and the coil replaced (especially while it was under warranty...not years later). It seems everytime I turn around the tech is "patching the system" a new compressor ... a new thermostat and not actually fixing the real problem. Correct me if I am wrong ... but it seems like that leaky coil can have a bad affect on the whole unit. So now why should I just replace the whole outside unit another 5K or more (even if it does offer a 10 year warranty) or the compressor (third compressors now) and not the coil which seems to be the problem in the first place??? help please

[@NewHVACGuide]

Of course I’m not involved in your situation but I think you are correct. Perhaps you should try a different HVAC company?

[@herjepeco]

I just have suscribe I love to have your book plz

[@parabellum6889]

I have had AC contractors get mad when I ask them a question.

[@NewHVACGuide]

They’re pretty sensitive 🤣

[@jimbike8064]

O.k, a bit confused. What is the difference between a contractor and a HVAC company that sends their service techs to your house to install a new a/c and furnace? I had recent storm damage to the outside a/c unit. Insurance sent a contractor, they work with, out to look at the damage. The contractor sends a sales rep that "we work with" from from a HVAC company to come out and estimate how much a system equal to the one destroyed will cost. This HVAC company sells Trane and York systems. Should I try to get another contractor out with a different HVAC company, who might sell Goodman or Carrier...to get another estimate? I'm not sure how that works.

[@NewHVACGuide]

An "HVAC company" is pretty vague. Should be referring to a contractor, manufacturer, supplier, or any other middleman in the process. I recommend finding a good contractor that you like a lot and go with the brand that they like the most. No brand is best in every market

[@staysafe3618]

To anyone watching this video, the cost of central heat and air units, heat pumps, etc., is fixing to skyrocket because of all this green new crap that keeps getting pushed. Their is a price increase September 1, and January 1. They are looking to double. I just had one installed today. 4 different HVAC estimates told me the exact same thing with the price increases. If you are debating it, get it done right away!

[@NewHVACGuide]

Things don’t seem to be getting cheaper for sure

[@r134awhole5]

Scare tactics Prices are not going to double in January

[@staysafe3618]

@@r134awhole5 hopefully not, do you work vac?

[@keithknetge6908]

3:47

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks!

[@reneeb7884]

i was about to say that lol

[@stevebabiak6997]

This comment should be pinned so that viewers can skip the 3:47 of BS.

[@jasony9950]

An 11 minute video for 3 questions? ... really aiming to get that KZbin money huh?

[@NewHVACGuide]

I'm gonna stretch it to 12 next time 😉

[@buddy7485]

@@NewHVACGuide I used to stretch mine to 12 back in the day

[@kellyroswell8546]

Offering Amana - which has the best standard warranty in the HVAC industry, coupled with purchasing a factory backed 10 Year Extended Labor warranty, will dramatically difference you in the marketplace. York and Daikin are the only manufacturers that offer Factory Backed Labor warranties for homeowners. Offering the best warranty and the best labor warranties - ensures no other company can offer anything better.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Daikin owns Amana silly

[@reneeb7884]

york got bad consumer rating, on the other hand

[@timothycoco7984]

Yak yak yak! Get to the point!

[@mr.g937]

Don't mean this as an insult, but it took 4 minutes to get to the first question....I feel like this video would be more effective and digestible if it were a little more to the point. I see I'm not the only one to point that out.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry pal

[@stevebabiak6997]

He should watch the lock picking lawyer videos to learn about good quality video - right to the point with little to no BS.

[@rezaa222]

This video could be summarized in 30 seconds.. save the talk please

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry pal

[@jayescreations489]

I could only get two contractors to bid for me.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Do you live in a small town?

[@jt2254]

Takes too long to finish basic thought… “too WINDY”

[@emjay6433]

dude, I appreciate the info but please get to the point!

[@FriendM2010]

Anybody that compares an HVAC purchase to a auto purchase, run! Just like this guy, they interject themselves into your purchase. I’ll do it myself… I’ll by the furnace and have delivered or pickup myself. I will not have any laborer I hire register the product. I will install or pay the labor to an hvac person. I may pull a permit to check their work or my work. I will not give hvac companies a maintenance commitment. Bye bye!

[@eze2190]

Crammed 60 seconds of info into 11 minutes.

[@JohnnyLivesAgain]

lol

[@markmcmillan6254]

All that was incredibly long winded.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry pal

[@Ohmcrazy2]

Spit it out already. Sorry but you are NOT hired. Now GTF out of my house.

[@mrman7453]

Get to the point

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry pal

[@ZacharyDeBoer]

Yikes.... ramble much? I stopped watching after 2 minutes and you didn't get to the point.

[@YouMustBeConfused]

This is ridiculous, get to the point. What a waste of time

[@happynurse8706]

I'll give you some advice quit wasting so much time repeating yourself you're trying to make 12 minutes that you could have put into 3 and a 1/2 minutes and then I could like and would listen to more of your work cut the BS people don't want to sit and listen on the phone for 10 minutes or 15 minutes to hear what you can tell me in 5 minutes

[@jimbike8064]

Getting bids from $7,500-$10,000 on single stage a/c 3.5 ton and furnace 80k btu. Goodman. York. Trane. Typically, how much are hvac companies willingly to negotiate on price? Think asking for an additional $500 in discounts is reasonable. What's been your experience with giving discounts?

[@NewHVACGuide]

Depends on the customer and contractor. We don't negotiate our prices but if a contractor is in their off-season and needs to work, they may be willing to budge. If they are super busy, you won't get any budging lol

[@jimbike8064]

Having a 4 ton Bryant installed tomorrow. 2 stage compressor and furnace. 90% efficiency on furnace. I like the installer. They've worked on my hvac system before. Had the best price and what I feel is a good system, and one that fits my needs. A little over 10k. Thanks so much for the helpful videos.

[@NewHVACGuide]

@@jimbike8064 Congrats! I'm sure it'll go great!

[@Mojocinco]

3:47

[@NewHVACGuide]

👍🏻