Overview
We use a consistent, data-driven approach to evaluate contractors and products, focusing on technical performance, customer feedback, and long-term value. Our goal is to highlight what matters most for your project — quality, reliability, and dependable results — rather than upfront cost alone.
Our system is built on three principles:
- Consistency: Every provider and product is evaluated using the same structured framework.
- Transparency: Scoring criteria and weights are clearly defined for each project type and applied uniformly.
- Relevance: Ratings prioritize the factors that most impact homeowner outcomes.
Rather than relying on a single factor such as reviews or price, we combine several key elements to provide a complete, accurate assessment.
How We Evaluate
We build our ratings using a combination of objective data and real-world feedback, giving you a clear and accurate picture of each contractor or product.
Our evaluation considers:
- Verified credentials, certifications, and licensing
- Customer feedback across trusted review platforms
- Manufacturer specifications and technical performance data
- Business operations signals, such as responsiveness and availability
- Market presence, brand reputation, and longevity
Every data point is reviewed using a structured scoring system to ensure consistent results across all categories. Where applicable, we also consider real-world factors such as installation quality, local climate, and product durability over time, not just listed specifications.
Our Scoring Approach
Each contractor and product is scored across defined criteria on a standardized one-to-five scale.
Individual scores are weighted by their relative importance and combined into a final rating using the formula:
Final Score = Σ (Criterion Score × Criterion Weight)
We determine these weights by focusing on the factors that most impact homeowners. For example, installation quality is prioritized for contractors, while performance and efficiency are emphasized for products. We also compare each score against similar providers and products within the same category to ensure fair, meaningful comparisons.
How Star Ratings Are Calculated
We convert the final score into a five-star rating, making it easy to understand at a glance.
A higher star rating reflects stronger overall performance across key areas such as quality, customer satisfaction, efficiency, and long-term value.
- 4.75 to 5.00 Stars: Excellent
- 4.25 to 4.74 Stars: Very Good
- 3.50 to 4.24 Stars: Good
- 2.75 to 3.49 Stars: Fair
- 2.00 to 2.74 Stars: Poor
- Below 2.00 Stars: Very Poor
A five-star rating means a contractor or product is considered excellent relative to comparable options — not that it is perfect. Ratings are always evaluated within the same category.
HVAC Contractor Rating Methodology
We rate HVAC contractors by focusing on the factors that most affect system performance, installation quality, and long-term homeowner satisfaction. Given the complexity of HVAC systems, we place extra emphasis on technical qualifications, workmanship, and responsiveness, rather than surface-level details.
How We Evaluate HVAC Contractors
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Licensing & Credentials (22%)
We verify whether contractors meet required licensing standards and maintain appropriate certifications, such as EPA 608 and industry-recognized credentials like NATE or manufacturer certifications. Contractors with advanced certifications and a strong compliance history score higher.
Customer Experience (20%)
Customer experience is measured using aggregated review data across multiple platforms. Scores reflect overall satisfaction trends, including the consistency, volume, and recency of feedback.
Responsiveness and Availability (15%)
We evaluate how quickly and reliably a contractor engages with customers, including response times, scheduling speed, and availability for urgent or emergency service.
Workmanship and Installation Quality (15%)
Proper installation significantly affects HVAC system performance and longevity. We look for contractors who follow best practices, size systems accurately, meet code requirements, and use proven installation methods. Contractors with strong design skills and consistent quality earn higher scores.
Pricing and Transparency (12%)
We assess how clearly contractors explain their pricing, including whether they provide written estimates, itemized quotes, and financing options. Contractors who are upfront and transparent, with little risk of surprise costs, earn the highest scores.
Reputation and Market Presence (8%)
We consider how long contractors have been in business, their presence in your community, and their overall reputation. Contractors with a strong local or regional track record earn higher scores.
Warranty and Post-Service Support (8%)
We evaluate both the length and quality of a contractor’s labor warranty, as well as their track record for follow-up service. Contractors offering longer warranties and reliable post-installation support receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our HVAC contractor ratings are designed to reflect real-world outcomes, not just what’s promised on paper. All scores are assigned using standardized definitions and evaluated relative to comparable contractors within the same market. Contractors who bring together strong credentials, reliable installation quality, and responsive service earn the highest ratings. Providers with gaps in licensing, inconsistent workmanship, or poor communication receive lower scores, even if their prices are competitive.
HVAC Products & Brands Rating Methodology
Modernize evaluates HVAC products and brands based on performance, efficiency, durability, and long-term value. While contractor ratings focus on service and installation, our product ratings emphasize engineering quality and real-world system performance over time, not just specifications.
How We Evaluate HVAC Products
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Performance and Efficiency (22%)
We use system-specific metrics to evaluate performance so you can compare different types of HVAC equipment fairly. Depending on the system, this may include:
- Air conditioners: seasonal energy efficiency ratio 2 (SEER2), energy efficiency ratio 2 (EER2), compressor type (single-stage, two-stage, variable-speed)
- Furnaces: annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), staging, airflow control
- Heat pumps: SEER2, heating seasonal performance factor 2 (HSPF2), cold-climate performance
- Boilers: AFUE, condensing capability, modulation
Systems that deliver consistent comfort, strong efficiency, and reliable operation in real homes, not just in lab tests, receive higher scores.
Warranty Coverage (18%)
We look at how long and how comprehensive the manufacturer’s warranty is, including coverage duration for major components, ease of claims and registration requirements, and the brand’s reputation for honoring warranties. Products with clear, easy-to-use warranties and a strong track record of support receive the highest scores.
Durability and Build Quality (15%)
We assess durability based on the quality of system materials and components, including compressors, heat exchangers, coils, and overall construction. Higher scores go to systems with proven long-term reliability, reinforced or premium components, and a strong performance history in the field.
Value and Pricing (12%)
We assess value by looking at how cost, performance, and expected lifespan work together. Products that offer strong efficiency, durability, and long-term energy savings relative to their price receive higher scores than more expensive, lower-performing options.
Brand Reputation and Support (12%)
We evaluate the strength of the manufacturer’s service network, parts availability, and industry reputation. Brands with wide service coverage, strong installer relationships, and consistent reliability signals receive higher scores.
Climate and Regional Suitability (11%)
HVAC performance can vary considerably depending on your local climate. We check how well systems work in different regions, including extreme heat or humidity, cold-weather heating performance, and seasonal efficiency consistency. Products proven to perform well in demanding climates receive higher scores.
Installation Compatibility and Ease (10%)
Even high-quality systems may underperform if they are difficult to install correctly. We assess compatibility with common residential configurations, flexibility across installation scenarios, and familiarity among installers. Products that are widely supported and easy for installers to set up correctly receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our HVAC product ratings are designed to show homeowners what to expect in terms of comfort, operating costs, reliability, and system longevity. We use consistent scoring criteria for all products and compare them to similar systems within their category, ensuring fair and meaningful ratings for any HVAC type. Products that offer high efficiency, durable construction, and strong warranty support earn the highest ratings. Systems that only meet basic requirements or lack long-term reliability receive lower scores.
Windows Contractor Rating Methodology
We evaluate window contractors by focusing on precise installation, energy performance, and long-term durability. While window quality is important, poor installation can cause air leaks, water issues, and reduced efficiency. That’s why we place the most weight on workmanship, installation quality, credentials, and customer experience.
How We Evaluate Windows Contractors
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Workmanship and Installation Quality (22%)
Installation quality is the primary factor in window performance. We verify that contractors follow best practices for sealing, flashing, and fit, and deliver consistent results across projects. Contractors who install windows precisely, have few callbacks, and use effective sealing methods receive the highest scores.
Licensing and Credentials (19%)
We verify that contractors hold the required licenses, insurance, and relevant certifications. Higher scores go to contractors with manufacturer certifications (such as Andersen or Pella), lead-safe certification where applicable, and clear, verifiable credential documentation.
Customer Experience (18%)
Customer experience scores are based on reviews from multiple trusted platforms, considering overall satisfaction, consistency, and reliability. Higher scores indicate strong average ratings, consistent positive feedback, and minimal recurring complaints.
Pricing and Transparency (15%)
We evaluate how clearly contractors communicate pricing, including written estimates, itemized quotes, and clear details about the scope of work. Contractors who are fully transparent about pricing and avoid unexpected costs receive the highest scores.
Responsiveness and Availability (10%)
Responsiveness refers to how quickly and reliably a contractor communicates and schedules projects. We consider response times to inquiries, scheduling timelines, and communication clarity throughout the project. Contractors who respond promptly and keep clients informed earn higher scores.
Reputation and Market Presence (8%)
We look at how established a contractor is in your area, including how long they have been in business, their local presence, and overall visibility. Contractors with a strong community reputation and consistent market presence receive higher scores.
Warranty and Post-Service Support (8%)
We evaluate both the strength of installation warranties and the contractor’s track record for post-installation service. Higher scores go to contractors offering longer installation warranties, clear service processes, and reliable follow-through on warranty claims.
Scoring Philosophy
Our window contractor ratings are designed to reflect long-term results, not just initial impressions. Contractors who deliver precise installations, hold strong credentials, and keep customers satisfied earn the highest ratings. Providers with inconsistent workmanship, unclear pricing, or poor communication receive lower scores.
Windows Products & Brands Rating Methodology
Unlike contractor ratings, which focus on installation and service, our window product and brand ratings center on material quality, thermal performance, and long-term value. We prioritize how windows perform over time in different climates and conditions, not just how they are marketed.
How We Evaluate Windows Products
Below is a breakdown of each criterion and what we look for when assigning scores.
Performance and Efficiency (22%)
We evaluate performance using key building science metrics, including U-factor (insulation performance), solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), air leakage, and ENERGY STAR certification. Windows that provide strong insulation, controlled solar gain, and minimal air leakage receive higher scores, as these factors directly influence comfort and energy savings.
Durability and Build Quality (20%)
Durability reflects the materials, construction quality, and long-term reliability of the window. We assess frame materials (vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, composite), seal integrity and hardware quality, and resistance to warping, moisture, and wear over time. Products with reinforced frames and high-quality components receive the highest scores.
Warranty Coverage (16%)
We evaluate the strength and usability of manufacturer warranties, including coverage duration and terms, transferability, and the ease of filing claims and accessing customer support. Windows with lifetime or long-term, non-prorated warranties and strong claims support receive higher scores.
Value and Pricing (14%)
We assess value by evaluating how well a product balances performance, durability, and cost. Windows with strong energy efficiency relative to price, a long lifespan with minimal maintenance, and a meaningful return on investment through energy savings receive higher scores.
Brand Reputation (12%)
We evaluate brand strength based on market recognition and longevity, installer and contractor sentiment, and consistency of product quality across lines. Established brands with strong reputations and reliable product performance score higher.
Installation Compatibility and Ease (8%)
We assess product adaptability across various installation scenarios, including retrofit and new construction. Windows that are widely compatible, installer-friendly, and supported by clear installation standards receive higher scores.
Climate and Regional Suitability (8%)
Window performance can vary by climate. We assess how well products are suited for specific environmental conditions, such as hot climates requiring low SHGC, cold climates requiring low U-factor, and mixed climates requiring balanced performance. Products designed for strong performance in specific regions receive higher scores.
Scoring Philosophy
Our window product ratings are designed to reflect real-world performance in your home, including energy efficiency, durability, and long-term value. Products that combine strong thermal performance, durable construction, and reliable warranties earn higher scores. Windows with weaker materials, limited efficiency, or poor long-term performance receive lower scores.