Do a google : 'Buying heating/cooling systems' . Talk with your
neighbors on who theyre happy with. When you get proposals, be sure and
get them to provide addresses and phone numbers of customers that have
had an installation performed then take a look at the job . Check with
your local BBB to be sure they havent had any complaints filed against
them. Go to your local courthouse and see if they have been a Defendant
in a Law Suit ; the clerk will give you the books to look thru at no
charge (in alphabetical order) . Dont give them anymore than 50%
deposit. Go to Consumer Reports Oct. of 1998 for a 4 page article on
different efficiency residental systems , how brands stack up, and how
to choose a Contractor. Go to your local Village Building Dept. and
ask if there are any hvac Contractors which they have banned from
working in your town. Take out a Permit for the installation so the job
can be properly inspected by a Village Inspector who will act on your
best behalf ; the Permit fee will be worth it to give you peace of mind.