How it works
The methodology behind your verdict
No fluff. Here’s exactly how we grade your HVAC quote, where our
pricing data comes from, and how contractors end up on our list.
How we grade quotes
Drop in six pieces of information about your quote (service type, equipment tier, home size, zip code, quote total, plus your contact info to receive the verdict) and our system compares your quote against typical Birmingham metro pricing for that exact combination.
Every verdict produces a range estimate, not a precise dollar figure. HVAC quotes vary based on access difficulty, ductwork condition, refrigerant type, and a dozen other site-specific factors we can’t see from a form. What we can do is tell you whether your quote falls inside the range a fair contractor would price this work, or outside it.
Green
Looks fair
Your quote falls within the typical range for this work in your zip code. This is a fair price.
Yellow
Higher end
Your quote is above the median but still inside the typical range. Worth a second opinion to confirm.
Red
Above range
Your quote sits above typical pricing. We strongly recommend a second opinion before signing.
Thresholds are calibrated quarterly against current market data. We never reveal specific contractor pricing or accuse a specific company of overcharging. Range claims only.
Where our pricing data comes from
Our verdict ranges are built from public industry data plus calibration against real Birmingham metro pricing.
How contractors appear on our list
When you receive a verdict, we show you a short list of Birmingham metro HVAC pros who can give you a real second opinion in person. Two paths get a contractor on that list.
Path one
Featured Partner (top slot)
Featured Partners pay to appear in the top slot. They are clearly labeled with a Featured Partner badge on every result page. They go through the same license and reputation verification as every other contractor we list.
Path two
Curated independent listings
Other contractors appear based on the criteria below. They don’t pay to be on our list. We update the list quarterly based on review volume, license status, and customer feedback.
Privacy snapshot
The full Privacy Policy spells out the legal details. Here’s the plain-language version.
Quick note on how leads work. When you submit the form, your contact info goes to S-Tek Heating & Air, our Featured Partner, so they can offer a free in-person second opinion. Other contractors on the list don’t get your info unless you click “Request quote” on their card. That’s the whole flow, no surprises.
What we collect
- Your form responses (service type, home size, zip, quote total)
- Your name, email, and phone number
- Basic site analytics (page views, referral source)
Who we share it with
- S-Tek Heating & Air (Featured Partner) receives your contact info with every submission
- Other contractors only receive your info when you click “Request quote” on their card
- That’s the entire list. Nobody else.
What we never do
- Sell your info to third parties or data brokers
- Pass your details to contractors you didn’t click
- Send promotional emails unrelated to your quote
Your rights
- Request a copy of your data anytime
- Ask us to delete your information
- Unsubscribe from S-Tek follow-ups in one click
Questions? Drop us a line.
Takes 60 seconds. Free. No spam.