How to Find a Good HVAC Company

How to Find a Good HVAC Company in BC

Looking for how to find a good HVAC company? Whether you need furnace repair services, a new air conditioning system, or a full heating and cooling system upgrade, the right HVAC contractor makes all the difference. Here’s a straightforward guide for BC homeowners on how to choose wisely and avoid costly mistakes.

1. Start with Referrals and Online Reviews

Word of mouth is still one of the best ways to find a reliable HVAC company. Ask neighbours, friends, or co-workers who they trust. Then check online reviews on Google or the Better Business Bureau for a snapshot of customer experiences.

A strong digital reputation often reflects the quality of real-world service. A contractor with hundreds of five-star reviews is like a proven hockey veteran, worth the premium. But don’t dismiss up-and-coming companies with fewer reviews. Sometimes they provide excellent service at a lower price while building their reputation.

✅ PRO TIP: Always read both the positive and negative reviews. How a company responds to criticism often tells you more than the rating itself. If they don’t even have a Google profile, walk away.

2. Verify Licenses, Certifications, and Insurance

Licensing protects you. In BC, HVAC technicians require a refrigeration and air conditioning licence plus a natural gas or propane contractor’s licence for heating work. If a company lacks these, it can’t legally perform many HVAC services.

You can verify a contractor’s licence directly through Technical Safety BC or by checking their certification with these organizations:

• Technical Safety BC – Contractor Licensing Search
• Environment and Climate Change Canada – Ozone Depleting Substances (ODP) Certification
• Red Seal Program – Skilled Trades Certification
• ASHRAE – Standards & Certification
• EPA Section 608 (for refrigerants, if comparing U.S. contractors)

Look also for certifications like North American Technician Excellence (NATE) or membership in groups like HRAI Canada.

Insurance is just as important. Some contractors buy insurance briefly and cancel it to save money, leaving you unprotected. Always confirm valid coverage and compare liability levels. Top HVAC companies may carry $5M in coverage, not just the minimum.

3. Look for Experience and Professionalism

Experience means fewer surprises. Contractors with years in business and technicians who have “seen it all” are better equipped to recommend the right system.

Don’t just take their word. The right HVAC contractor explains why a certain heat pump, AC unit, or furnace is best for your home and backs it up with documentation.

☝️ Personal insight: Ask to peek at the back of their service vehicle. If it’s clean and organized, chances are your job will be too.

4. Expect an In-Home Evaluation and Multiple Quotes

Never accept a quote over the phone. A good contractor should perform a comprehensive home evaluation, measuring ductwork, insulation, and current system performance, to recommend the correct size and type of HVAC system.

Always get multiple written quotes. Itemized breakdowns should list:

• Equipment costs
• Contractor’s installation and removal fees
• Cleanup
• Warranty information
• Financing or rebate options

Avoid one-line estimates. Transparency signals an experienced company.

5. Check Communication and Timeline

Professionalism shows in communication. Does the contractor return calls quickly? Do they provide a clear job scope and timeline?

Tie payments to milestones. For example, 20% upfront for materials, then staged payments tied to progress. If they’re confident, they’ll agree to fair terms.

✅ PRO TIP: Newer HVAC companies sometimes have more availability for emergency services, while established ones may run tighter schedules. Ask upfront.

6. Warranties Matter: Parts and Labour

Most HVAC equipment brands offer a 10-year parts warranty, but labour is often excluded. The best HVAC companies extend warranties and include at least a one-year labour warranty.

A solid labour warranty adds peace of mind. Remember: lower prices often mean shorter warranties. Balance price, quality, and protection before signing.

7. Consider HVAC Brands and Equipment Support

No brand is automatically “best.” The right choice depends on your home, budget, and support network.

When comparing, ask:

• Are spare parts readily available locally?
• How often are models discontinued?
• What’s the warranty coverage on major components like compressors, coils, or heat exchangers?

🍁 Canadian context: Most furnaces and air conditioners are built with similar parts. What matters more is whether the local service provider stocks parts and can get you back up quickly.

8. Energy Efficiency and Rebates

High-efficiency heat pumps and ENERGY STAR-rated systems save money in the long run. In BC, check FortisBC and the Canada Greener Homes Grant for rebate opportunities.

Zoning systems, ductless mini-splits, or variable-speed furnaces may cost more upfront, but they cut monthly bills and boost comfort.

💡 Fact: According to Natural Resources Canada, heating and cooling account for ~64% of a home’s energy use; upgrading equipment can significantly reduce costs.

9. Fast Response Matters

When your furnace or cooling system fails in the middle of a BC winter or summer heat wave, you don’t want to wait weeks for help. Some HVAC companies advertise 24/7 emergency services, but what really matters is whether they respond quickly and keep their word.

At Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Services, we focus on same-day or next-day diagnostics for urgent HVAC needs. This balance ensures our customers get reliable help without stretched-thin technicians or hidden overtime charges. Ask potential contractors how they handle urgent calls and what their average response times are in your local area.

10. Choose Local for Faster Support

Where a contractor is based matters; local companies can respond faster to repairs, warranty issues, and maintenance visits. Supporting nearby businesses also keeps money circulating in your community.

Conclusion: Make an Informed Decision

To recap:

• Ask for referrals and read online reviews.
• Verify licences, certifications, and insurance.
• Choose an experienced company that provides clear quotes and in-home evaluations.
• Prioritize warranties, communication, energy efficiency, and emergency services.
• Support local companies for reliable service performance.

When you’re ready to find the right HVAC contractor, call Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Services. We provide expert technicians, comprehensive home evaluations, and quality service across the North Okanagan, with same-day or next-day availability.