After several aborted attempts at finding an HVAC contractor who could help us with our semi-functional 20 year old Unico high velocity system we (thankfully) found Mike Quartner. Little did we know when we purchased our first home in the summer 2021 that these high velocity systems are extremely finicky. A good install will perform exceptionally well; a poor install will do the opposite.
Turns out our existing system was the latter. The air return of the bottom zone of the two zone system was located next to the furnace (bad) in the damp basement (also bad) and the condenser would freeze/quit working due to the lack of the correct number of ducts (you guessed it--bad!). On top of that, an addition to the back of the house lacked any sort of AC or heat. But wait, there's more! We'd come to learn that the ducts in the basement were riddled with black crap--mold, dirt, who knows what else. No doubt the result of a lack of maintenance and the air return sucking in 75% humid air for the past 20 years.
Bottom line is that we needed to basically rip out the old dual zone system an install a completely new one in an 85 year old home.
Why Quartner's? I received two bids from HVAC contractors that seemed to know what they were dealing with--Mike being one. Mike was a bit more expensive than the other bidder, but Mike actually did a manual J calculation instead of saying let's just put in exactly what you have now (that's not working). I also had a good raport with Mike--he's a straight shooter but was also patient with my fiancé, who had tons of questions and doesn't mince words.
Getting the work started took several months--good contractors are like good restaurants--there's a waitlist for reservations these days. But Mike stayed in regular communication. As the reckoning day approached, Mike came out a few more times to plan out the system and answer our innumerable questions.
We were trying to time the install and separate attic insulation work together (DeVere insulation--also 5 stars) so they wouldn't interfere. Mike's guys came out early to help move the old equipment so the insulation guys could do their work easier.
Mike's crew is Mike plus three other guys. Two of the three have been with Quartner's for 13+ years, and the "newbie" for a few years. So you aren't dealing with an ever changing cast of characters. These guys have been doing complicated installs together for a LONG time and it shows.
In addition to installing a completely new high velocity system (including a mini split for the addition), they did us a solid regarding some bathroom vents and running networking cable with the line set. They communicated with us on any issues they encountered and worked with us to solve them expeditiously. All in all the project was done 5 days earlier than expected (the install took about 6 or 7 business days I believe).
I haven't needed "after install" service yet--and hopefully I won't--but I expect Mike and the team will take care of any issues and questions that arise. I'll update this review with those experiences as need be.
Bottom line: Quartner's has my highest recommendation! read more