Common HVAC Quote Red Flags (Clarity Issues)

1. Very Vague Equipment Descriptions

A quote that only says something like "new heat pump system" without clear details can make it hard to know what you're getting. It's usually better when the quote mentions:

• System type (heat pump, AC + furnace, etc.).
• Approximate size (tons or BTUs).
• Brand and model line or model number.

If you only see generic wording, ask politely for more specifics in writing.

2. "Ductwork As Is" With No Explanation

Many homes have ductwork that was never tested or sized for modern systems. A quote that simply assumes ducts are fine, with no mention of:

• Visual inspection, or
• Airflow/static pressure check

isn't automatically wrong — but it's a good moment to ask how they decided the ducts are acceptable.

3. Electrical Work "TBD" Without Any Range

Some jobs truly need a site visit before electrical costs can be nailed down. However, if your quote says:

• "Electrical by others," or
• "Electrical TBD"

with no explanation, you may want a rough range or separate estimate so you're not surprised later.

4. No Mention of Permits or Disposal

Clear quotes usually say whether the price includes:

• Permits (if required locally).
• Removal of old equipment.
• Cleanup and basic patching where work was done.

If nothing is mentioned, ask, "Is the permit and removal of the old system included in this price?"

5. Warranties Not Clearly Described

A quote that just says "warranty included" without details can leave you guessing later. Look for:

• How long parts are covered.
• How long labor is covered.
• Who handles warranty claims (contractor vs manufacturer).

It's fine to ask, "Can you write in the parts and labor warranty lengths?"

6. Large Allowances Without Explanation

Sometimes quotes use allowances (for example, "electrical allowance" or "duct modification allowance") without clearly describing what happens if the actual work is more or less than that number.

A quick follow-up question like, "What happens if the actual work is above or below this allowance?" can prevent surprises.

7. When in Doubt, Ask for a Walk-Through

A contractor who is comfortable walking you through the quote line by line, in plain language, is often a good sign. You don't need to understand every technical detail — just enough to feel comfortable with what's being proposed.

Simple Questions You Can Use

• "Can you help me understand what's included, and what would be extra?"
• "How did you decide this equipment and size are right for my home?"
• "Is there anything here that might change once the job starts?"
• "Can we put the key details in writing so I have them for my records?"

Have a Quote That Feels Confusing?

If your estimate has vague wording or unclear line items, you can paste the text into ClarityHeat for a plain-English explanation:

Decode My Quote

ClarityHeat explains the language only. It does not judge pricing, contractors, or equipment choices. Always review decisions with a licensed HVAC professional.