Homeowner guide
How to choose an HVAC contractor
Erie has no shortage of trucks with logos. Here's how to tell the real contractors from the sales operations.
The 5 questions
- "Will you do a Manual J load calculation?" — the only correct answer is yes. Sizing by square footage is guessing.
- "Are you licensed and insured — can I see proof?" — PA requires registration for home improvement contractors. Ask for the certificate, not the claim.
- "What's the labor warranty, separate from equipment?" — a 10-year parts warranty means little with a 30-day labor warranty.
- "Who actually does the work — your techs or subs?" — neither answer is disqualifying, but you deserve to know.
- "What happens when it breaks at 2 AM in January?" — emergency response is the real product. Vague answers are the tell.
Red flags
Quotes good "only if you sign today." Refusal to itemize. No physical address. Cash-only discounts that skip the paperwork — which also skips your warranty.
Start with verified Erie contractors — every listing shows real contact info, never paid placement.