So you’ve finally made the big decision to purchase a new HVAC system for your home. You’ve done your homework. Different models and manufacturers have all been addressed, discussed, and compared. SEER ratings, tonnage, and air flow have all been thoroughly researched and evaluated. Pricing has been negotiated and finally agreed upon. Now its time to decide which HVAC contractor will get to install your system. How do you decide?
There are several factors to consider when choosing an HVAC contractor. Remember, a quality installation is vital to the long term good health of your new system. A poorly installed heat pump or furnace will drastically lower the efficiency of the system and result in less-than-expected savings on your energy bill. How do you ensure that your contractor will properly install your new system?
The answer is simple. Although most homeowners are unaware, installing any HVAC system requires the issuance of a mechanical permit from the City or County Building Department. Your contractor can and will pull them. Upon 
completion of your installation, a mechanical inspector from the city (or county) will come to your home and inspect all work done by the contractor. Any code violations and/or substandard work will be listed by the inspector and must be corrected by the contractor before the work will be approved. This is an important protection that all homeowners should utilize when purchasing a new system.
Paragon Heating routinely pulls permits on all new installations. Our customers know that Paragon Heating is committed to installing all new equipment under the most stringent guidelines and in full compliance to all applicable codes and regulations. Upon completion of the installation our Start-up technician performs a comprehensive check of all new equipment to ensure not only that it is operating properly but also that it is totally code compliant. An appointment is then made for the mechanical inspector to come to the home and inspect our work.
Unfortunately, many local contractors prefer to do their work without obtaining a permit. Last year an estimated 60-70% of new systems installations were done without any type of permit being pulled. This allows the contractor to install equipment without having to follow the mechanical or electrical codes or have their work inspected by a third party. Pay attention homeowners. Do not allow your HVAC contractor to tell you that a permit is “not required” or “unnecessary”. It is an important protection for you and any contractor who refuses to permit his work certainly does not have his customer’s best interests in mind.
