Installer Checklist – Certifications, Tools & HVAC Pros You Can Trust

👷 Why the Right HVAC Pro Matters

Your system’s longevity, efficiency, safety, and resale value don’t come from duct tape—they come from skilled installers. Quality matters.
A great R‑32 installation hinges on:

• Certification (EPA, NATE, A2L training)

• Tools (mirrors, leak meters, vacuum pumps, torque wrenches)

• Processes (proper evacuation, charging, ignition safeguards, test logs)

• Accountability (warranty, documentation, communication)

Skip this, and your system underperforms—or worse, becomes a liability. Let’s walk through the essentials.

🥇 Certifications: The Keystone

1. EPA Section 608 – Mandatory for legal refrigerant handling (any type, including R‑32).

2. A2L Refrigerant Training – Not blanket certification—requires specific modules for mildly flammables like R‑32.

3. NATE Certification – Industry gold standard for system sizing and troubleshooting.

4. Manufacturer Training – Many brands (Carrier, Lennox, Goodman) offer proprietary R‑32 install courses.

5. State/Local Licensing – Varying requirements—some areas require professional HVAC or mechanical licenses.

A contractor without these credentials is a red flag. Ask for certificates—don’t trust claims alone.

🔧 Must-Have Tools for R‑32 Compliance

A compliant install needs more than DIY gear:

• Electronic refrigerant leak detectors – must sense A2L gases at appropriate levels

• Vacuum pump & micron gauge – to remove moisture before charging

• Charging manifold & digital refrigerant scale – precise charge is safety-critical

• Torque wrench – compressors are sensitive to overtightening

• Manometer – verifies airflow and pressure differentials (leak-checks)

• Combustion analyzer – ensures safe and efficient furnace operation

• Safety gear – goggles, gloves, gas monitor, respirator (certified techs use it)

Without these, your system won’t hit efficiency or safety marks.

🗣️ What to Ask: Interview Your Contractor

Nice pamphlets aren’t proof. Vet with solid questions:

• “Show me your EPA 608 and A2L certification cards.”

• “Which brand R‑32 installation training have you completed?”

• “Do you run a micron-level vacuum before charging?”

• “Will you leak-test and log the system post-install?”

• “How do you vent cabinets and ensure UL airflow compliance?”

• “What’s your combustion and refrigerant detection protocol?”

• “Can I see test logs and UL-style checklists after install?”

Their answers—and paperwork—will show if they’re legit.

🔍 Red Flags & Warning Signs

• Vague answers or refusal to produce certifications

• Using only analog tools or charging by “eyeballing”

• No written proposals, scope-of-work, or breakouts (e.g., parts vs labor)

• “Oh, I don’t have to vacuum, R‑32 is mild…”

• Lack of test logs or refusal to provide documentation

• Lowball bids too good to be true—they usually are

Trust your gut. Overpromising = under-delivery.

⚖️ The Right Price: Paying Smart

Upfront costs vary by region and job size—but expect:

• Base system install: $8–12k (high efficiency R‑32 + furnace)

• Diagnostics, testing, airflow balancing: $300–500

• Documentation and paperwork service: $150–300

• Rebates/incentives processing: install cost to contractor but saves you money

Shop at least 3 bids. Compare scope, certifications, paperwork, not just price.

📋 Quality Control During Install

A quality install isn’t just parts—it’s process:

1. Pre-install survey & Manual J sizing

2. Old unit removal, refrigerant recovery

3. Line-set flush, vacuum to 500 microns

4. Charge precise refrigerant quantity

5. Leak test with electronic detector

6. Cabinet sealing and venting per code

7. Combustion check & pressure diagnostics

8. Electrical wiring & safety lockouts

9. System run-test, homeowner walkthrough

10. Test log delivery + certification forms

This might take a full day—expect it.

🛡️ Warranty, Documentation, & Follow-Up

• Manufacturer warranty: 5–10 yrs parts, longer for registered

• Labor warranty: at least 1 year is standard

• Maintenance agreement: annual tune-ups to keep warranties valid

• Documentation package: certificates, rebate forms, efficiency test reports

Future resilience? Keeping files means easy transfer to new owners or insurance claims.

✅ Checking Compliance After Installation

It’s your home—verify before the crew leaves:

• Look for EPA and A2L certification cards

• Scan system label for UL listing and R‑32 label

• Ask to review leak detection & airflow test results

• Have them email you the refrigerant charge documentation

• Note installation date and serials (needed for rebates and tax credits)

If they’re hesitant—walk. No excuses.

🧠 Tony’s TL;DR Installer Vetting Cheat Sheet

1. Ask for EPA 608 + A2L + NATE + manufacturer credentials

2. Confirm they have proper tools—digital leak detector, vacuum, torque wrench

3. Ensure they follow tight installation steps (evacuation, seal, charge)

4. Review post-install documentation (test logs, UL labels, forms)

5. Verify warranty coverage and annual maintenance plan

🎯 Why It Matters

• Ensures maximum efficiency, safety, and longevity of your R‑32 system

• Protects your home insurance and resale records

• Prevents costly rework or voided warranties

• Keeps you energy- and carbon-smart without paying a price

Finding a legit installer isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Use this list, get quotes, inspect credentials, and secure your comfort with confidence. Need contractor vetting help? I’ve got your back. Also check out my tips for finding the right type of furnace for you!

🛠️ From my toolbelt to your thermostat, stay comfortable — Tony 🛠️