1. Observe and protect
Write down what you are noticing and when, keep anything from getting worse if you safely can, and gather whatever history you have on the equipment.
2. Evaluate the house and site
A capable evaluation checks the equipment itself alongside duct leakage, airflow, insulation, and the electrical panel—not just the part that is obviously failing.
3. Define a written scope
A written scope should cover prep and protection, materials, permits, testing, cleanup, and what happens if something unexpected turns up mid-job.
4. Compare providers
Line proposals up side by side and compare the reasoning behind each one, not just which number is lowest.
5. Inspect closeout
Before calling it finished, confirm testing was done, the site was cleaned up, and you have warranty paperwork in hand.