When it comes to getting the right heating contractor for your home there are several things that you are going to want to take into consideration upfront. It can be tempting to open up the Yellow Pages and simply choose the first heating contractor on the page, or the first one that you see, but this might not get you the results that you want. In the perfect world, every company would be able to offer you great service, but in the real world, you will have to do a little research in order to get the best contractor.
Commencing Your Search for an HVAC Company
Instead of starting out by doing a random search online or browsing through the phone book, you should ask your friends and family for recommendations. Many homeowners often need the services of a heating contractor at some point, so it’s a good possibility that someone you know has used one. They will be able to tell you about reputable contractors that they used, or even steer you away from those that aren’t up to the task.
Next, make a thorough list of how you believe your heating system is performing. Are there rooms that are constantly too cool or too warm? Does your heating system stay on for an unnecessary amount of time, or does it fail to come on when the thermostat indicates that it should? The day-to-day details that you take note of helps the qualified heating contractor to quickly pinpoint problems and make accurate systems evaluations.
If you choose a heating contractor that works for a company instead of one that is self-employed, make sure to check the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that they are reputable. You should also make sure that you choose a contractor that actually inspects your heating unit to determine the cause of the problem and gives you a report of the services you will need, including parts and labor costs, before they issue a quote.
We advise you to also consider the following when selecting an HVAC company:
- Make sure that the contractor is insured and licensed. While it may seem as if this should be a requirement for business, it is not, and it’s possible that a handyman that shows up at your door will not have the right credentials. Reputable contractors will have their credentials available at your request. These credentials should include all federal, state and local licenses and certifications, as well as liability insurance. Ask the contractor if he or she has been professionally trained, and ask to see their license. It is also a good idea to check with your state's professional licensing board on the status of the license.
- See if the contractor has NATE certification. While not mandatory, most professional HVAC contractors will have a North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification. This is a federal certification that validates a technician’s knowledge in the area of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. It is a widely accepted certification that professionals obtain by taking an exam. An Excellence certification is also a certification that is not mandatory, but again, validates the technicians knowledge. To obtain this certification, a technician must have at least two years experience in the field and have had passed a written examination. A mandatory certification is the EPA 608 certification. An HVAC contractor must obtain this in order to legally put refrigerant into an air conditioning system.
- Choose a company with a good reputation for offering reasonable prices. Once you ensure that the company you have chosen is fully licensed, you should then look at budget and flexibility. Prices for services can vary greatly and unless you happen to be a HVAC expert, you likely will not know what is reasonable. This will protect you from being overcharged for a simple service. In addition, you need to look for a company that is willing to work with your schedule instead of forcing you to conform to theirs. If they cannot be flexible this should be a sign that your business would be better placed elsewhere.
- An HVAC contractor should conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner. Your questions should be answered in full detail with written examples of experience available upon request. Never rely on oral statements. Once you feel comfortable with the person who you are considering to hire, make sure to read the terms and work description in the estimate and be sure all work is guaranteed. Descriptions of work and services should also be written in minute detail.
Are you in need of a reliable heating contractor in the Aurora area? Contact Prestige Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at 630.801.8600 and schedule a service call today!