Tips When Replacing Your System
You're considering an expensive change to your home. Have you looked at all the factors? Here are some tips to help you find your best option:
1. Look for a registered contractor
Look for a contractor that is registered with the Technical Standards and Safety Authority and if electrical wiring is included, make sure that the Electrical Safety Authority will be notified for inspection. Proper installation is essential for your home's safety.
If you are looking for a wood burning unit, ensure that your contractor is registered with the Association of Wood Energy Technicians of Ontario-Emke Schaab is not.
2. Get estimates from several contractors
Don't be afraid to shop around. Prices from different contractors can vary significantly. Ensure to ask each salesperson the following:
- Total cost of all necessary work
- Heat loss/gain - and how they came to the result
- Size and Seasonal efficiency of equipment and sound ratings
- Whose responsibility is it to:
- Get and pay for permits
- Remove and dispose of old equipment
- Arrange for subcontractors and gas lines
- Arrange inspections
- Work schedule and completion date
- Company Guarantees, Manufacturer Warranties, and service contracts
- Rebates available
- Terms of payment and methods available
- Evidence of registration
3. Make your selection
When making your selection, consider not only the upfront cost of the equipment, but the operational costs. Consider what rebates are available for each option and what will be taken off the original costs, because that could make a more expensive unit a better deal than the lower end model. Also, look at what comes with the installation-does it have any extras, like first year maintenance, duct insulation, etc.
Ask for references from the contractors you are considering. Contact the customers and ask for their honest opinions, and ask about any complaints they might have.
4. Choose the right equipment
Don't just choose to replace your old equipment with new equipment of the same size, make sure some sort of heat loss is done. Since the old equipment was installed, your home has probably changed, and that means your old equipment might be the wrong size. Replacing equipment with improperly sized equipment will cause the unit to operate below optimum efficiency.
There is also the venting concern. Make sure that there will be adequate supply of air for combustion and venting when using gas, propane or oil. If you are going with something electrical, make sure your electrical panel can handle the added load, or find out the cost to upgrade it.
Based on © 2005 Queen's Printer for Ontario
Feberal Government Rebates are back!