6 Key Questions to Ask Before Air Conditioning Installations

When the summer heat starts bearing down on Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere, and other nearby communities, you’ll be thankful you invested in a quality air conditioning system. But before you dive into an air conditioning installation, there are crucial questions you should ask to ensure you’re making the right choice for your home and budget. At JPS Furnace, we’ve helped countless homeowners throughout Calgary and surrounding areas navigate this important decision, and we’re sharing our expertise to help you do the same.

1. How Do I Choose the Right Air Conditioning System for My Home?

This isn’t just about picking the shiniest unit with the most features. Trust us, we’ve seen too many Calgarians end up with systems that weren’t right for their homes.

Your air conditioning system should be like a tailored suit – perfectly fitted to your specific needs. When we visit homes in communities like Bowness or Auburn Bay in Calgary, or places like Bearspaw and Springbank just outside the city, we’re looking at:

• Square footage: A system too small will run constantly and never cool properly, while one too large will short cycle and waste energy.
• Home insulation: Those beautiful heritage homes in Inglewood often need different solutions than new builds in Walden or modern homes in Okotoks and Airdrie.
• Window positioning: West-facing windows in the afternoon Calgary sun create different cooling challenges.
• Family habits: Do you work from home? Have pets? Host summer gatherings?

We recommend a professional assessment to determine the best system based on your home’s unique characteristics. This isn’t a sales tactic – it’s about ensuring you don’t waste money on the wrong solution.

2. What is the Total Cost of Installation, Including All Fees?

Nobody likes surprise charges. We certainly wouldn’t want them when installing something in our own homes!

When comparing quotes for air conditioning installation in Calgary and surrounding areas like Cochrane, Airdrie, and Chestermere, make sure you’re getting an itemized estimate that includes:

• Equipment costs
• Labor and installation fees
• Permits and inspections
• Any necessary modifications to existing systems
• Removal and disposal of old equipment
• Post-installation cleanup

Some companies might offer a temptingly low initial quote, only to add “unexpected” charges later. At JPS Furnace, we believe in transparency from the start. That’s why we provide comprehensive, no-surprise quotes for every air conditioning installation project across Calgary and neighboring communities.

3. Are Your Installers Licensed and Insured?

This question might seem obvious, but it’s absolutely critical. Working with unlicensed or uninsured technicians can lead to:

• Improper installation that reduces efficiency and system lifespan
• Safety hazards from incorrect electrical work
• Code violations that could affect your home insurance or future sale
• Financial liability if accidents occur during installation

Always verify that your air conditioning installation company employs licensed HVAC professionals and carries proper insurance. This protects both you and your home from potential issues down the road.

4. What Warranty Coverage Do You Provide?

When investing in air conditioning for your home in Calgary or communities like Langdon, Strathmore, or High River, warranty coverage provides valuable peace of mind. Don’t just take “we have a warranty” as an answer; dig deeper:

• What’s the duration of the manufacturer’s warranty on parts?
• Is there a separate warranty on labor?
• What specific components are covered?
• Are there actions that could void the warranty?
• Is the warranty transferable if you sell your home?

Quality air conditioning systems typically come with warranties ranging from 5-10 years on parts, but labor warranties vary widely between installation companies. Understanding these details helps you make a more informed decision about your investment.

5. How Long Will the Installation Take?

Summer in Calgary and throughout Southern Alberta is precious, and nobody wants contractors in their home longer than necessary. While a straightforward air conditioning installation typically takes 4-6 hours, several factors can affect this timeline:

• Complexity of your home’s layout
• Whether new ductwork is required
• Electrical system updates needed
• Accessibility of installation areas

A reputable company should provide a realistic timeline based on your specific situation, not just a vague estimate. They should also respect your home, using drop cloths and taking measures to minimize disruption to your daily life, whether you’re in downtown Calgary or rural Rocky View County.

6. What Maintenance Will My New System Need?

The air conditioning systems we install today are more reliable than ever, but they still require regular maintenance to perform their best. Before installation, ask about:

• Recommended maintenance schedule
• Homeowner maintenance tasks versus professional service
• Filter replacement frequency and costs
• Signs that might indicate a developing problem
• Availability of maintenance plans

Regular maintenance not only extends system life but also maintains efficiency,  keeping your home comfortable while controlling energy costs during our increasingly warm summers across Calgary and the entire Bow River Valley.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home in Calgary and Surrounding Areas

Choosing the right air conditioning system and installation partner is crucial for long-term comfort and value. At JPS Furnace, we believe informed homeowners make better decisions. That’s why we take the time to answer your questions thoroughly before any air conditioning installation begins. For more on what to expect during professional installation, visit Carrier’s HVAC installation guide.

Whether you’re in a spacious home in Aspen Woods, a cozy condo in East Village, an acreage in Springbank, or a family home in Okotoks, your comfort is our priority. We’re here to help you navigate the air conditioning installation process with confidence across Calgary and all surrounding communities.

Ready to explore your air conditioning options? Contact our team today for a consultation tailored to your unique home and needs. We’ve been cooling homes throughout Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Chestermere and beyond for years, and we’d love to help you stay comfortable this summer too.