Get matched with top boiler installation pros in Blackhawk, CA

A common HVAC rule is that for every 500 to 600 square feet of living space, you need 1 ton of heating or cooling capacity. Now that you know this common rule, you also need to know that it isn’t very accurate, and a dedicated pro wouldn’t use it for your home. If you talk to a pro who won’t or can’t perform a proper Manual J calculation, consider hiring someone more thorough.

To figure out if your boiler is worth repairing or if you need to replace your boiler, first figure out how old the unit is. Boilers last 15 to 20 years, so if your unit is 15 years old or older, it may be better to replace the entire thing depending on the severity of the problems. If it’s not quite that old, then it’s probably worth repairing. Another thing to consider is whether your warranty covers any of the repair costs. If so, it may be worthwhile to repair your boiler to keep it running.

HVAC quotes may be negotiable. It’s important to be upfront about what you need, your budget, and your expectations. However, your contractor must suggest repairs or the system they think is best for you, and those things may not be negotiable. So, when can you negotiate an HVAC quote? When installing a new system, you may not need to replace ductwork or install specialty items such as whole-home air purifiers. If your contractor is bidding on those items or others you don’t need or want, ask them for a quote on only the equipment and services you need.

You should get anywhere from three to five quotes for HVAC replacement to get an idea of the average cost of a new unit. Although this quote-collecting process can be time consuming, it allows you to compare what work is required, what type of unit you should install, and how much you should expect to pay for the service.