How to bid on Air Conditioning Unit Replacement for the Forest Service

What the Forest Service is buying

The Forest Service needs to replace air conditioning units in the nematology lab at the Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit in Hilo, Hawaii. The current units are either not working or are covered in mold and mildew. This project aims to install new units to address these issues.

Key dates and deadlines

This solicitation was published on September 11, 2026. All quotations must be submitted by September 22, 2026, at 5:30 PM Eastern Time. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions may not be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is a total small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses can submit a bid. The relevant contractor classification is North American Industry Classification Standard Code 238220, for Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Contractors. The small business size standard for this code is $19 million. Firms with experience in HVAC replacement, especially in humid environments, would be well-suited.

The work is located in Hilo, Hawaii, which may be a consideration for potential bidders.

How to respond

To access the solicitation details, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required.

This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ), and the announcement itself serves as the only solicitation. No separate written solicitation will be issued, so all necessary information is contained within the published announcement and its attachments, such as the Statement of Work.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review the Statement of Work (Attachment 1) to understand all requirements for the air conditioning unit replacement. Ensure your quotation directly addresses each aspect of the work requested.

Since this is an RFQ, focus on providing a clear, concise, and competitive price for the services. Also, highlight your firm's experience with similar HVAC installation or replacement projects, particularly those involving mold remediation or work in challenging environmental conditions.

Double-check that your business meets the small business size standard for NAICS code 238220. Ensure all required forms and documentation are completed accurately and submitted before the deadline.