HVAC dealers in the U.S. make a very low percentage on sales. Although it is wise to receive at least 2 bids on a job, you may find that in the heat of summer or a cold snap in the winter, dealers have all the business they can handle and don't want to waste time just bidding jobs.
So if when you need something the most you cannot get more than one bid, what should be done? The key to making sure you are getting good value for your money is to use a manufacturer recommended dealer through their dealer network.
Warning: You get what you pay for. Most of the complaints we receive, are from homeowners that received more than 3 bids and then took the bid that was significantly lower than the rest. The only way a dealer can get a lot lower than other dealers is to cut corners. We find that these dealers are usually not in business very long.