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Heating & Air Conditioning

Should I wait till Spring?

12 years ago

I want to replace both my A/C and gas furnace. I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota; and it been a mild winter so far; and I am tempted to call and get quotes on do this now but I know from previous experience that in the winter is their busy season for furnaces; the quotes sometimes are "50% higher" that of the Spring time. Plus, clearance models are usually available too in the Spring.

Do you think I should go through the effort to get some quotes on the replacements or is it just to early to do it; even with the mild winter? I just tempted but I am kind of scared that I will be taken advantage of and just wait another 3 months time; I will be much better off!

Thanks.

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Comments (10)

mike_home
12 years ago
Wait until spring when things begin to slow down. Contractors will have time to talk to you and answer questions. In the mean time you can do your homework. In New Jersey I would start getting quotes in early March. In your area it may be late April. You also want to wait to when temperatures are high enough to allow the testing of the AC condenser.
bpchiil
12 years ago
As Mike said...wait til spring to have it installed - it is the slowest part of the year for the HVAC industry.

The two most important pieces right now - knowing, or having an idea, what you want to install in terms of efficiency, and researching a REPUTABLE contractor.

Don't expect too much with saving on clearance units - they are slim to none.

Good luck!
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harry_wild
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks for your replies. I will wait till Spring. Thanks for re-enforcing my beliefs! I was kind of on the borderline with this but I will be ready to begin in Spring - maybe in April!
harry_wild
Original Author
12 years ago
I guessing from the HVAC in Minneapolis; they seem hunger for business but no discounts yet! The stay with the quote: "You get what you pay for". The first and only HVAC contractor I talked with; would not consider the model I wanted to be installed either. He made recommendations on everything else however. It going be a long, long process here!
maryland_irisman
12 years ago
Wait until spring, when there is no need for cooling or heating and get 3 estimates in writing. Let them know you are in the process of obtaining estimates for work you want to have done right up front. Once there is competition, the prices get more realistic. You want to choose the people who are most thorough in their work descriptions and who answer your questions in terms you understand. They will be the ones who stand behind their work and are willing to put things in writing. They may not give the lowest estimate but if they are in the ball park, that's who you want.
Once you are negotiating costs, ask what value added considerations they will provide if you choose them. Things like free filters, a quality check in mid season, small things that will indicate they want your business and provide services to get and keep your business. Be sure to get any "promises or assurances" in writing.
harry_wild
Original Author
12 years ago
Found out that their are rebates from the top tier HVAC manufacturers like Carrier, Bryant, Lennox. The second tier has not offer anything yet! I was interested in Rheem/Ruud and Goodman but I will take what I get; rebates are rebates! Up to $1,100-$1,400 if by the right high price units together.
harry_wild
Original Author
12 years ago
Well, for Bryant and Carrier; there are not factory rebates; only those dealer that disguises as rebates but may or may not be. Lennox is the only one currently that is factory!
mike_home
12 years ago
Carrier rebates usually start on March 1. Be aware the contractor pays for half the rebate.
harry_wild
Original Author
12 years ago
hi mike,

Carrier starts on March 1st? Contractor pays half for the rebate so they will be less maybe too. Wonder which brand is better Carrier/Bryant or Lennox!

Thanks!
mike_home
12 years ago
Carrier/Bryant makes good equipment. I am biased since I have owned Carrier furnaces and condensers for many years and have had few problems.

I have read mixed reviews about Lennox equipment. Other than that I have no direct experience or opinion.

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