When the time comes to hire an HVAC contractor, you want one with a high degree of professionalism. Entrusting someone who's not qualified with repairing or replacing your sophisticated, expensive HVAC system is risky at best. So how do you find an HVAC contractor with the right skills and expertise? Here are some tips to guide you through your search.
What to Look For
Talk to your friends, family and business associates and ask who they use. Go online and have a look at these contractors' websites. A professional website won't necessarily guarantee a good job, but it does suggest that a contractor is operating at a professional level. Look for the following:
Length of time in business. This alone won't guarantee professionalism, but it can show stability and level of experience.
Testimonials. Online testimonials can be manufactured, so be wary. Ask for referrals and follow up on them.
Types of services and brands. You probably want a contractor who has experience installing and repairing your particular brand of HVAC system.
Licensing and insurance. These can differ widely even from county to county, so be sure to discuss licensing and insurance issues before you sign a contract.
Types of affiliations and certifications. An HVAC contractor may belong to a number of professional organizations, from the Better Business Bureau to the ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), but one of the key organizations that should be on the list is NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE affiliation proves that the contractor's technicians are certified and capable of working at the highest level of professionalism in the industry.
Home evaluation. Don't accept any estimates over the phone. You want a contractor who will come to your home to carefully evaluate conditions and to size your HVAC system. Expect a detailed estimate.
Written contract. Your contract should spell out the scope of the job, time line, model numbers and projected costs. The job should not begin until the contract is signed.
If you're looking for a quality HVAC contractor to do your repair or replacement, contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Jacek-Dudzinski/Shutterstock”