Suppose you called around and started asking about the price. Some dealers were advertise that they "won't be undersold" or "lower than invoice". Do you suppose that some dealers might start using a cheaper paint or maybe fewer screws, bolts and nuts so they could reduce their labor and material costs? Wouldn't they have to, to keep from losing the sale? Who would ever know? 

That's one reason why, even if you know the brand and size of HVAC equipment you need, prices from one contractor to another can vary by $1000 or more! If one contractor sells the "same" system for $1000 less than another isn't it just possible that they might be "cutting corners"? If they are, you can bet they're not cutting corners to make the system more efficient. This is not to say the highest price is the best but when comparing prices you have to make sure that the contractor you choose is doing all that needs to be done.

There are so many ways to "cut corners" that it is nearly impossible to list them all and if someone didn't tell you about them, you'd never know any better until it's too late. Some of the items that can be ignored (either by intent or by ignorance) are incredibly important, not only for your comfort but your health...all in the name of giving their customers a "good deal" or "cheaper price". 

For example, all cities have specific codes regulating the installation of HVAC equipment, including Dallas. Codes about electrical switches and connections; gas piping and safety cutoffs; flue pipes brought up to code including the size, type of materials, pitch angles, and clearances. How many of them are you familiar with? Don't you think the contractor knows that you don't know the codes and requirements? Just one more way estimates can be lowered and prices range dramatically.

Other items that can be "overlooked" that are not subject to inspection but will eventually cost you money and inconvenience if not installed correctly are: condenser slabs not level; proper evacuating and charging of refrigerant lines; clearances for refrigerant lines; combustion air for furnaces and service accessibility. As a consumer you really have no idea what is needed, so you are really at the contractor’s mercy.


Remember this, it really doesn't matter what brand you go with if the company does not install it correctly. Of course, the top quality brands will usually last longer but nothing impacts the life and efficiency of a system like the installation process. 

Most of the problems that arise after you purchase a system including shortened equipment life are nearly always caused by improper sizing and/or the installation. A lot of the differences in price are installation related. It just costs more to do it right! 

Here are the priorities that ensure long term value, comfort and peace of mind:


1. Quality Installation: If equipment is not installed properly, using materials that exceed code requirements, performance and durability will suffer.
 
2. Comfort Issues: What does comfort mean to you? Talk about temperatures, air quality and noise levels. This is what you are buying; not a price.
 
3. Guarantees vs. Warranties: Guarantees are provided by your installer; warranties by the manufacturer. When something goes wrong, you aren't calling the manufacturer. Make sure the installer can and will meet your needs.
 
4. Brand Quality: Some manufacturers have a reputation for high quality, long lasting equipment.
 
5. Efficiency: Match the efficiency of the new equipment to the requirements of your home.
 
6. Warranties: Good warranties are a sign of quality equipment.
 
7. Price: Decide what value you place on the trouble-free operation of your HVAC equipment and your comfort.

If you take the time to learn and discover the answers to the first 3 priorities, the next four will almost take care of themselves. Anyone disappointed that their new HVAC system did not solve their comfort problems, savings on their utility bill or durability, are probably disappointed due to a poor installation.