HVAC checklists
The four checklists worth having are: what to check before you call for service, how to vet a contractor, what must appear on a replacement quote, and the seasonal maintenance list. Using the quote checklist alone typically exposes the biggest differences between bids that look similar on price.
Before you call: filter condition, thermostat mode and batteries, breaker, furnace power switch, outdoor disconnect, blocked vents, condensate drain. Note exactly what the system does and when - "blows warm air after about ten minutes" is far more useful to a technician than "it's broken."
Vetting a contractor: state license verified with the licensing board, EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant work as required federally, general liability and workers' comp insurance, references from jobs in your area, and a written proposal rather than a verbal number.
Reviewing a replacement quote: equipment model numbers, AHRI matched-system reference, whether a Manual J load calculation was performed, duct work included or excluded, electrical work, thermostat, permit responsibility, old-equipment removal, total price, payment schedule, parts warranty term and labor warranty term.
Choosing HVAC checklists
The judgement calls that decide the bill, before anyone quotes you.
- Insist the load calculation appears on the quote ACCA Manual J, S and D are the standard methods and are referenced in codes nationwide. If none is mentioned, ask why.
- Check that all three bids include the same duct scope Duct work is the most common reason bids differ by thousands. HVAC Project Cost puts repairs at $500 to $1,500 and full replacement at $2,000 to $5,000.
- Verify insurance, not just license General liability and workers' comp. Ask for certificates sent directly from the insurer where possible.
- Never accept a verbal price Everything on paper, signed, with a clear payment schedule tied to milestones.
- Keep a records folder Permit, inspection sign-off, model and serial numbers, warranty registration confirmation, and every maintenance invoice.
All HVAC checklists
HVAC Pre-Project Checklist
HVAC Hiring Checklist
HVAC Maintenance Checklist
HVAC Safety Checklist
Where these figures come from
Sources last checked
- ACCA - Technical Manuals · retrieved 2026-07-25
- EPA - Section 608 Technician Certification · retrieved 2026-07-25
- HVAC Project Cost - HVAC Replacement Cost 2026 · retrieved 2026-07-25
You know more than the last homeowner they quoted.
That is worth something only while you are still choosing. Tell us what is going on and we will match you with a few HVAC pros whose licence and insurance we have already checked - free, no obligation.