How the 'Quote by Photo' Process Works: Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Homeowners today are busier, smarter, and more digitally savvy than ever. That’s why The Furnace Outlet offers a groundbreaking way to shop for a new heating or cooling system without the traditional home visit: the Quote by Photo tool. If you're like Tony—a no-nonsense homeowner who values convenience, speed, and transparency—this guide is for you.

Below is a complete, detailed breakdown of how this process works from start to finish, why it matters, and how to get the most accurate quote possible with just a few smartphone photos.

🔀 What Is a “Photo Quote” and Why It Matters

The Photo Quote system is a remote HVAC estimation service. Instead of scheduling an in-home sales visit, homeowners simply:

• Take a few strategic photos of their existing HVAC equipment

• Submit them through a secure web form

• Receive a personalized quote within 24 hours

🔹 Benefits for Homeowners

• Saves Time – No waiting for a contractor to visit

• Avoids Sales Pressure – Get a quote without someone pitching in your living room

• Enables Comparison Shopping – Compare multiple quotes easily

• Mobile-Friendly – Everything can be done from your phone

External Reference: VirHaac’s virtual quoting process has proven to generate accurate, same-hour HVAC estimates using submitted photos.

📱 Step 1: Prep and Take the Right Photos

You don’t need professional photography skills, but you do need a clear, well-lit set of images showing the right components.

👉 What to Photograph

1. Indoor Unit (Furnace or Air Handler)

   • Capture the front and sides

   • Include any labels, model/serial numbers

2. Outdoor Unit (Condenser or Heat Pump)

   • Wide shot of the unit

   • Close-up of the nameplate or label

3. Thermostat

   • Display and wall around it

4. Breaker Panel

   • Show which breaker connects to the HVAC

5. Ductwork and Vents

   • Where visible (attics, basements, closets)

🔹 Photo Tips

• Take photos in natural daylight where possible

• Don’t crop labels or corners

• Include multiple angles if unsure

📄 Step 2: Upload and Submit Your Information

Once your photos are ready, head to The Furnace Outlet's Quote by Photo page.

👉 What You’ll Need to Provide:

• Your name and contact info

• Basic home details:

  • Square footage

  • Number of floors and rooms

  • Location and ZIP code (to determine climate zone)

• Any known preferences:

  • System type: heat pump, gas furnace, AC

  • Efficiency goals (SEER2, ENERGY STAR)

  • Desired installation timeframe

Pro Tip: The more you share, the more accurate your quote. But no worries if you’re unsure—our team can work with just the photos.

External Resource: HVAC.com’s virtual quote form includes similar submission elements and user expectations.

🤖 Step 3: Visual Analysis by HVAC Experts

After submission, your photos are reviewed by real technicians—not AI bots. These experts evaluate your system and home layout.

👉 What They’re Looking For:

• System age, brand, and condition

• Physical space constraints for new equipment

• Possible ductwork compatibility

• Electrical and ventilation considerations

🧹 Tools They May Use:

• Digital markup apps (e.g., Blitzz, CompanyCam)

• Internal equipment databases

• Region-specific sizing charts

Verified Link: Blitzz’s visual collaboration tools are commonly used for remote diagnostics and quote accuracy.

💬 Step 4: Receive and Review Your Custom Quote

Within 24 hours, you’ll receive a quote directly in your email. Many customers get theirs in less than 6 hours.

📉 What’s Included:

• Recommended equipment size and type (e.g., 3 Ton R-32 AC)

• Efficiency ratings (SEER2, AFUE)

• Cost breakdown

  • Equipment

  • Shipping

  • Optional installation labor

• Warranty information and next steps

Reference: HVACQuote.ai uses a similar method to deliver multi-tiered quote options (Basic, Premium, Ultra-Efficient).

📊 Step 5: Compare Options and Ask Questions

You’re not obligated to buy—so use this quote to shop smart.

👉 Tips for Evaluation

• Use ENERGY STAR’s equipment database to compare SEER2 and EER ratings

• Ask about first-hour ratings, BTUs per square foot, and noise levels

• Verify if your quote qualifies for rebates or tax credits

External Guide: FurnaceHeaters.com on HVAC quote red flags provides a checklist to validate quote legitimacy.

🚪 Step 6: Accept Your Quote and Schedule Your Install

If you love your quote (and we think you will), the next step is simple:

👉 Your Choices:

• Accept online and get a confirmation email

• Request a final walkthrough (virtual or in-person)

• Coordinate with a preferred installer or use The Furnace Outlet’s network

🔹 Delivery and Prep:

• Most systems ship in 1–3 business days

• You’ll receive tracking and setup tips

• Clear space for old unit removal and new system install

❌ When a Photo Quote Isn’t Enough

Photo quotes are incredibly effective, but they’re not a cure-all.

⚠️ Situations That May Need In-Home Evaluation:

• Hidden ductwork in walls or inaccessible crawlspaces

• Zoned or multi-system homes

• Major renovations or additions

• Commercial properties

Expert Insight: FieldComplete’s HVAC quote guide suggests a Manual J load calculation may still be required for complex homes.

✅ Final Thoughts: Why Tony Chose Quote by Photo

Tony is a smart homeowner. He skipped the drawn-out home visits, got three competitive quotes, and used them to negotiate with installers. All he needed was his smartphone and 15 minutes.

📄 Tony’s Wins:

Feature	Benefit
Fast Estimate	Saved 3 days of back-and-forth calls
Transparent Pricing	No surprise upcharges
Mobile Access	Submitted from his work break room
Custom Options	Chose a high-efficiency upgrade

In the next topic we will know more about: Is the 'Quote by Photo' Tool Accurate? What to Expect From Your Estimate