Begin with the home, not a model number
Tell the installer which rooms are uncomfortable, whether insulation or windows have changed, and how the current system behaves. Ask how the proposed cooling capacity was selected. Matching the old unit’s size without assessing the home leaves important questions unanswered.
Get the whole installation in writing
List the outdoor unit, indoor coil, controls and any indoor equipment included. Clarify refrigerant piping, drainage, electrical work, equipment supports and removal of the existing system. Ask which items are reused and why they are suitable.
Compare performance and ownership costs
Compare the exact equipment combination and its rated efficiency, not a model family or a headline claim. Request warranty registration requirements and separate manufacturer parts coverage from installation labor coverage. Avoid comparing monthly payment amounts without comparing the complete financing terms.
Plan completion before the work starts
Confirm access to the equipment, expected disruption, permit responsibilities, startup checks and cleanup. Ask for model and serial records, operating instructions and the final invoice. For an Ottawa property, confirm the permitting jurisdiction using the actual address.
Common questions
Does a bigger AC cool better?
Appropriate sizing matters. Ask for a home-specific sizing assessment rather than automatically choosing a larger unit.
What should be compared between two bids?
Exact models, included labor and materials, exclusions, permit work, warranties and the total installed price.
Further reading: ENERGY STAR heating and cooling guidance. This page is a planning resource, not an equipment diagnosis.