Best time of year for furnace replacement (roof, Air Conditioners, installing)

[mkarch]

I'm in Seattle - so there is less residential AC work done during the summer months. I'm wondering if I can get a slightly better deal on labor by replacing my furnace mid summer, when most people aren't getting work done. Anyone have luck negotiating a better price in an off season?

[RyanR]

Summer may be good for you to have it installed but that's also the season that HVAC Techs are fixing air conditioners and installing new units as it's construction season.

I'd approach them requesting their best FIXED BID price under the premise that they can do it when it's quiet for them but once they start, they have to finish within 2-3 days of starting. Put an end-date on it that they have to have it fully installed by 9/1/13 or some other date that's good for you so you have the new furnace by time you need it for next winter.

[K'ledgeBldr]

For your neck-of-the-woods it could be different but, here in the ATL there is very little price fluctuation due to the season. But, as far as getting it done in a reasonable time frame my HVAC contractor is the least busy in mid-September thru end of October. That's the time when there is little to no-use of A/C or heat.

[eggalegga]

I think the labor costs might be the same year round. But equipment my be cheaper in the off season. If you're aiming for energy efficiency, check on rebates from your local utility companies, state agencies and tax credits from the IRS. You could also ask the contractor if they have any furnace's they're closing out so you might get a deal that way.

I replaced my furnace in June 2010 but I also added central air too. Both were efficient enough to qualify for rebates/tax credits. I wanted to replace my furnace when I didn't need it....and when there wasn't 6 inches of snow on my roof since that's where my intake and exhaust pipes go.