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Thread: New System Add-Ons
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12-10-2005, 07:23 AM #1
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I'm quite sure in the new contruction quotes I got, none of the builders including things like humidifier, UV or Electrostatic filters, or HRV/EV.
For a forced air system in new construction in central NJ (I had spec'd the Rheem/Ruud modulating furnace), should I be adding any of the above or anything else? I find it interesting that no contractor I know asksduring the quote phase about mechanical systems, but they are more focussed on whether the homeowner wants things like granite countertops and a whirlpool bath.
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12-10-2005, 07:48 AM #2
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The General contractors talk about what they know. The HVAC is put out to bid and subcontracted based on price, so no extra goodies in the bid. General contractors do not like the subcontracted hvac company to have access to the homeowner and this is the primary reason why you rarely see the extras in new construction and large remodels. Some general contractors are different and have a relationship with their subcontractors ( I love working with those guys)and their is more communication.
The contractor is more focused on the whirlpool bath and counter tops because that is what their customer is more focused on. When is the last time you have heard a home buyer ask " I am looking for a 4 bedroom with attached garage and Ruud modulating gas furnace"
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12-10-2005, 08:26 AM #3
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Don't forget that many builders beat the HVAC guy down in price, then charge out the wazoo for the "extras".
A nationally known builder here charges new homeowners $600 for a bypass humidifier on the option sheet (may have gone up, that was 2 years ago). The rest of the HVAC is hacked in as fast as possible to meet the hours allotted on the job. The homeowner gets screwed on the HVAC, but the stainless and granite looks nice.
If you are dealing with a custom builder, it won't hurt to ask to meet with the HVAC contractor and try to address your concerns. A good builder will not have problems with that.
If you are submitting the plans to builders for bid, put what you want in the specs in plain view, not buried in the small print.Proper Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance
"There is hardly anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper, and the people who consider price only are this man's lawful prey. It's unwise to pay too little.
When you pay too much, you lose a little money -- that is all. When you pay too little, you may lose everything, because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing it was bought to do.
The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot -- it can't be done. If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run. And if you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better."
John Ruskin
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