Occasions are bound to arise where your heating and cooling equipment needs service or repair, and you want to get the best contractor possible on the job. If you don’t already have a quality HVAC contractor in your address book, you’ll want to compare some HVAC service quotes.

Once you have those quotes in hand, you have to know how to read them. Here are a few tips for cutting through the jargon and getting right down to the nuts and bolts of the agreement.

HVAC service quotes include estimates of the service required. If you’re having a new system installed, check that the estimate includes the cost of the equipment and labor. Those are the basics; however, some contractors also include perks like a checkup appointment within a month (included in the price tag) to make sure the system is running smoothly.

Quality contractors should stand by their work. Look for a quote that includes a satisfaction guarantee. Company policy will differ, but the best you can expect to get is a 100 percent money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the system. Read the fine print here to see how long you have to make a claim.

Other contractors include extended warranties. This kind of policy usually costs a little extra, but you’re guaranteed that if something goes wrong that the same people who installed it will rectify the situation. Again, read the small print and look for any exclusions or time limits before you sign.

HVAC quotes should include, in detail, the system designated for installation. You’ll want to read this carefully and see what components are included. If you’re having your A/C system replaced, for example, you’ll want to check to see if the indoor air handler will also be replaced. These systems must have compatible capacity in order to work correctly.