Get Quotes from Top HVAC Contractors in Gilbert, AZ
Questions to Ask Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert
Formerly known as the "Hay Capital of the World," Gilbert has transformed from an agricultural town into a fast-growing, thriving suburban community with top-notch recreational options. Nevertheless, though Gilbert's overall warm weather appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, cooling down after its hot, sunny days is still a necessity. Thankfully, hundreds of HVACR contractors in the city are ready to help with any heating or cooling needs.
Whether looking to install a refrigeration unit, repair or upgrade an existing AC system, or tune up a malfunctioning heat pump, getting an appropriately licensed, insured and experienced HVACR contractor for the job is critical. Along with other factors, these contractor criteria ultimately determine the total cost of an HVAC project.
Therefore, before hiring any HVAC contractor in Gilbert, always ask the following questions to ensure that you choose the right professional for the job:
- What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
- Are You Licensed as an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
- What Rates Do You Charge for Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?
- Will My HVAC Project Require a Permit in Gilbert?
- What Type of HVAC Services Do You Offer in Gilbert?
- Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the HVAC Work in Gilbert?
- Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Gilbert HVAC Contractor?
- Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your HVAC Work in Gilbert?
- How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?
What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
Attempting to install, repair, or service HVAC systems without adequate training and experience can affect the lifespan and efficiency of your equipment, cost you hundreds of dollars in avoidable expenses, and even pose potential safety hazards to you, your loved ones, and the general public.
As such, it is best always to hire licensed, experienced, and insured HVAC contractors who follow pertinent provisions of the Gilbert Building and Construction Regulations Code and other acceptable HVAC-related standards when providing their services. Common tasks that professional Gilbert HVAC contractors should always handle include the following:
- Air conditioner installation, repair, and maintenance
- Duct cleaning and indoor air quality improvement
- HVAC system design and installation for new buildings
- Furnace installation, maintenance, and repair
- Energy-efficient HVAC system upgrades
Are You Licensed as an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
HVAC contractors in Gilbert must be licensed by theArizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). This agency offers three main license categories based on the scope of work authorized for the license holder: Residential, Commercial, and Dual. Gilbert HVAC contractors can subsequently be licensed under any of the following classifications:
- R-39: this classification authorizes the HVAC contractor to install and repair air conditioning, warm air heating, refrigeration, evaporative cooling, and ventilation systems on residential property.
- C-39 and C-58: these classifications authorize the HVAC contractor to install, alter, and repair air conditioning, refrigeration, warm air heating, evaporative cooling, and ventilation systems on non-residential property.
- CR-39 and CR-58: these classifications authorize HVAC contractors to work on both residential and commercial properties.
There are eligibility criteria that HVAC contractors in Gilbert have to meet to obtain a license from the ROC. These criteria include the following:
- Having at least four years of verifiable HVAC on-the-job or management experience
- Passing a licensing examination consisting of a business management exam and an HVAC examination
- Getting an EPA Section 608 Certification
- Passing a criminal background check
Noncompliance with the ROC's licensing requirement for HVAC contractors is a misdemeanor, punishable by fines of at least $1,000 and other administratively imposed penalties for first-time violations. However, be aware that an ROC-issued license is not required to perform HVAC work that either costs less than $1,000 or does not require a permit. Nonetheless, it is best to always hire properly licensed contractors for your HVAC work, as these licenses are typically only issued to competent professionals.
You can check the license status of your intended HVAC contractors by using the ROC's Contractor Search tool.
What Rates Do You Charge for Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?
HVAC services in Gilbert can cost from $280 to $12,000, depending on several factors like the following:
- The contractor's experience and reputation
- The scope and nature of the job
- Your building's layout and the cost of necessary renovations
- The type, brand, and size of your HVAC system and equipment
- The location of the HVAC unit inside and outside the building
- The labor intensity of the job
- The cost of required permits and additional components like dehumidifiers and smart thermostats
It is advisable to ask for quotes from at least three contractors to compare prices and estimate the cost of your project. This also has the advantage of helping you spot fraudulent contractors who try to rip off unsuspecting clients by inflating their estimates.
Will My HVAC Project Require a Permit in Gilbert?
Gilbert HVAC contractors must have a permit to carry out HVAC work on structures other than single-family residential buildings. The GilbertDepartment ofDevelopment Services issues permits, and applications are processed online via its One Stop Shop platform.
You can direct your questions concerning permits for HVAC projects in Gilbert to
Gilbert Development Services Department90 E. Civic Center Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: (480) 503 - 6700
What Type of HVAC Services Do You Offer in Gilbert?
Licensed HVAC contractors in Gilbert generally offer a wide range of services to keep your heating and cooling systems running efficiently and effectively. Gilbert HVAC firms charge around $80 - $280 as a minimum service fee and $90 - $130 per hour for labor, depending on the project's scope. Some of the services provided by HVAC professionals, along with approximate cost ranges, are listed below:
Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the HVAC Work in Gilbert?
Professional HVAC contractors are generally competent enough to perform HVAC work themselves. However, large projects (like installing or replacing AC units in apartment complexes or overhauling HVAC systems for commercial and industrial facilities) often require a subcontractor on board to ensure the work is completed on time. Nevertheless, when engaging the services of Gilbert HVAC contractors, always determine if the work will be outsourced or handled solely by the principal HVAC contractor, no matter the scope of the project.
If your HVAC contractor confirms that they will involve subcontractors, you should consider taking the following actions to prevent problems:
- Ensure that each subcontractor is appropriately licensed and experienced.
- Verify the bond and insurance coverage of the subcontractors.
- Get lien waivers to ensure that you are not held liable if the main HVAC contractor defaults in payment to the subcontractors.
Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Gilbert HVAC Contractor?
The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) requires HVAC contractors in Gilbert to maintain a surety bond of between $4,250 and $100,000; the specific amount depends on the contractor's license classification and estimated volume of work. In addition, these contractors must carry worker's compensation insurance for their employees (if applicable).
It is best for you to request and validate copies of bond and insurance certificates from prospective HVAC contractors before committing to them.
For more information concerning the mandatory bond and insurance requirements of Gilbert HVAC contractors, call the ROC at (602)542-1525 and (877) 692-9762.
Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your HVAC Work in Gilbert?
It is important to consider warranties when hiring HVAC contractors, and you should always confirm that you will be offered one before finalizing agreements with your intended contractor. These types of warranties typically cover the HVAC contractor's workmanship for at least one to two years and purchased and installed parts and equipment for about five to ten years. These are general industry estimates; your HVAC contractor and the equipment being covered will determine the specific validity period of your warranty. So, always request a written copy of any warranty you are offered to review its terms thoroughly. Do not hire any contractor who is hesitant to discuss warranties or does not offer them.
How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?
You can file complaints concerning unprofessional service delivery or scams by Gilbert HVAC contractors with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors via the options available on its File a Complaint webpage. Notice that you will be required to register a user account with this agency to use some of these options properly.
Alternatively, you can report unsatisfactory HVAC services and dishonest contractors in Gilbert to the Arizona Attorney General's Office online or by mailing a consumer complaint form to the following address:
Office of the Attorney GeneralConsumer Information and Complaints
2005 N Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85004
You can also submit this form via email or fax to (602) 542-4579.
Table of Contents
- What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
- Are You Licensed as an HVAC Contractor in Gilbert?
- What Rates Do You Charge for Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?
- Will My HVAC Project Require a Permit in Gilbert?
- What Type of HVAC Services Do You Offer in Gilbert?
- Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the HVAC Work in Gilbert?
- Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Gilbert HVAC Contractor?
- Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your HVAC Work in Gilbert?
- How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Your HVAC Services in Gilbert?