Upgrading your HVAC system is a big investment, so check out these 6 tips for hiring a trustworthy contractor and ensuring you’re installing the right system for your home.

#1: Start by getting an energy audit (or “home energy assessment”) that includes a blower door test.

An energy audit provides a clear picture of what kinds of upgrades make sense for your home, including air sealing, insulation, and other upgrades that could save you energy and money and make your home more comfy. Here are a few local contractors who provide home energy audits. If you income-qualify, these organizations provide free home energy audits.

#2: Do your research when selecting a heat pump contractor.

• Ask for referrals from friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers.
• Read online reviews.
• Check out our Find a Contractor page, or Electrify Oregon’s helpful directory
• Even if you have a contractor you’ve used before, get at least three quotes to compare.

#3: When you meet with contractors to get a quote, ask a lot of questions:

• In addition to the questions in this helpful guide from Electrify Now, ask:
  • Are you going to do a “Manual J” load calculation? If not, how are you going to accurately size the heat pump?
  • What types of variable speed heat pumps do you sell? (Variable speed, or inverter-driven heat pumps, are recommended for their efficiency)
  • What incentives or rebates are available, and will you provide assistance in applying for them?
• Ask each contractor for multiple equipment options.
• Request references from their other clients, and actually call those references.
• If you’re planning to fully electrify, ask for your contractor for help planning this so you can be smart about panel sizing and circuit allocation.

#4: When talking to a contractor, a little heat pump knowledge can go a long way:

• As a general rule, it’s better to slightly under-size a heat pump for your home. This will be less expensive and will work better in all seasons.
• Here in Oregon, you should consider a cold-climate heat pump, which will work well during the cold winter months.
• If you’re getting a ductless or “mini-split” heat pump, ask what your options are for the indoor unit—including high-wall units, low-wall units, ceiling cassettes, or even ducted units that can reach multiple rooms.

#5: Evaluating quotes: Quotes should be in writing and itemize everything that will be included. Things to look out for:

• Specific brand and model numbers for all equipment that will be installed, plus all relevant specs.
• Itemized lists of any other parts and accessories you’ll be charged for.
• Detailed payment info, including down payment (which shouldn’t exceed $1k or 10% of contract) and a schedule of payments for the complete job.
• Costs can vary widely. According to Rewiring America, the median cost of a single-zone heat pump (1 indoor unit, 1 outdoor unit, for under 1,000 sq ft) is around $6,400. The median cost of a whole-home heat pump that can replace your furnace for a 1,500 sq ft house is around $13,000. New ducts, a cold climate heat pump or a larger house would increase this cost.
• You can search online for the retail prices of the quoted equipment and add it all up for the total equipment cost. If the quote is more than 4 times bigger than the equipment costs, it’s probably too high.

#6: And finally, make sure to sign a written proposal.

Before any work starts, make sure you’ve signed a written work proposal. Don’t sign anything until you’re clear on what you’re paying for and what you’re getting.

This material was adapted from Rewiring America’s helpful guide.

This process can be a bit overwhelming—but FREE help is available!