How Much Does Air Conditioning Ducting Cost?

"Some rooms are working and some aren't."

There is a proper use for this kind of duct. But this isn't it.

Wondering how much air conditioning ductwork costs? It could cost you your whole system if it is not installed properly. After twenty five years of repairing, installing and inspecting heating and air conditioning systems I have seen some crazy installations that have ruined the energy efficiency of perfectly good air conditioning equipment.

"My air conditioning is not blowing."

Mold can cause lasting health problems

The best thing to do when your air conditioner is not working is to call a licensed and insured air conditioning contractor. They should be certified by the EPA. They will know the correct duct to use for different applications and how to install it correctly. Improperly installed ducting is an energy waster at best. Badly installed ducting can allow toxic mold into your home or stress your HVAC equipment enough to cause mechanical failure.

Don't trust your HVAC ducting repair or installation to an unlicensed handyman or your friend who has a tool-belt. Your air conditioning system is an valuable investment for your home. Properly installed ducting is an investment in the indoor air quality of your home and the health and safety of your family.

Installed by a friend :-(

Why Should You Care If Your Contractor Has Workman's Compensation Insurance?

          One of the things you like about your contractor is that he's cheaper than all the rest right?
He's giving you a good deal. Or so you thought...

          The contractor you hire to trim your trees or repair your air conditioning system is supposed to carry workman's compensation insurance for their employees. If not, they could end up costing you every penny you have. Homeowners insurance usually only covers domestic employees like maids and babysitters, it does not cover work that should be performed by a licensed contractor. The homeowner is required to check and make sure that any laborer working on their property is covered. Most homeowners do not realize that they are personally liable if an uninsured worker is injured on their property.

California law is very clear:

            It is the homeowner’s responsibility to verify that repairmen and contractors are properly licensed and insured. If a homeowner hires a contractor who does not carry the appropriate liability and Workers Compensation insurance, the homeowner is liable if an accident happens.  

 

          There is an easy way to make sure a contractor is properly licensed and insured.

The Contractors State License Board makes it easy to check your service providers.

1. Go to CSLB.ca.gov

2. Search for service providers by business name, a worker’s name, or a license number.

3. Find out whether the contractor is properly licensed and insured, and whether they pay workman’s compensation for their employees.

          Above is a screen shot of a page from the Contractors State Licensing Board that shows what a properly insured air conditioning contractor in Los Angeles should look like. As you can see they are covered for worker's compensation. Every heating and air conditioning system installation contractor should carry workers comp, but many of them do not. 

Why don’t all contractors carry Workers Compensation coverage?

            Workers compensation coverage is expensive. A contractor who cuts costs by skipping it can offer a lower price than a contractor who insures his employees properly, however, a low bid can turn into a very expensive nightmare.

          Most of the time, accidents do not happen. But when they do, homeowners are ultimately responsible for what happens on their property. Protect yourself from irresponsible contractors by checking their credentials and their insurance history at CSLB.ca.gov.