When to Get a Second Opinion on an AC or Furnace Quote
A second opinion costs little and can save thousands on a replacement you may not need. Here is when to get one, what to have ready, and what a real second opinion includes.
When a second opinion is worth it
Get a second opinion any time you are quoted a major repair or a full system replacement. These are the quotes where a wrong diagnosis costs the most:
- "Your compressor is bad" or "your coil is leaking, you need a new system."
- "Your heat exchanger is cracked" on a gas furnace.
- A replacement quote with no load calculation, or a system size picked from square footage.
- Pressure to sign the same day, or a discount that expires when the technician leaves.
- A repair quote that is close to the price of a new system.
What to have ready
- The written quote or invoice from the other company, including model numbers and the diagnosis.
- Any photos, readings or test results they shared.
- The age of your system (on the data plate) and its repair history, if you know it.
What a fair second opinion includes
A real second opinion means testing the system, not just reading the first quote. The technician should take their own readings, such as refrigerant pressures, electrical measurements, or a combustion and carbon monoxide check on a furnace, and show you what they found. You should leave with a written price for the repair or replacement they would recommend, and an honest answer if they agree with the first company.
Cowboy's free second opinion
Cowboy's gives free second opinions in the San Antonio area on other companies' repair or replacement quotes. A Cowboy tests the system and puts our own price in writing, at no charge. See how the free second opinion works or call (210) 495-7771.
Comparing companies, not just quotes? Use our 10-point checklist for choosing an HVAC company in San Antonio.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get a second opinion on an AC replacement quote?
Yes, for any major repair or replacement. Another licensed company can test the system and give its own written price before you commit.
Is a second opinion on an HVAC quote free?
Some companies charge a diagnostic fee. Cowboy's offers free second opinions in the San Antonio area on other companies' repair or replacement quotes.
What should a second opinion include?
Its own tests and readings on your system, an explanation of what was found, and a written price, not just a review of the first quote.
What if the second opinion agrees with the first?
Then you can move ahead with more confidence. An honest second opinion will say so.
Can a cracked heat exchanger diagnosis be wrong?
It can be. Ask for the evidence, such as a camera image or combustion readings, and have another licensed company check before replacing the furnace.
Related service: free second opinions · AC installation and replacement · AC repair in San Antonio. Cowboy's AC answers 24/7 at (210) 495-7771.
