Whether you are looking for a company to perform routine maintenance or replace your whole HVAC system, there are some key questions you should ask. It is always a good idea to talk to several companies and weigh your options before making such an important decision.
There is more to hiring a technician than finding who will give you the best price. After all, you don’t want to place your family’s comfort into the hands of just anyone. You want to make sure the job is done right, and therefore you want to make sure you hire someone qualified for the job.
What to Look for When Hiring an HVAC Company
It is best to put in the time to research before you actually hire an HVAC professional. Here are the questions you should ask every technician before hiring them to work on your HVAC system.
Are You Licensed and Certified?
Before hiring any HVAC company, be sure to check to see whether they are licensed and possess all necessary certifications. Most companies will have this information clearly posted on their websites.
You can also ask the company to show you license verification. If they cannot provide you with this information, don’t hire them to work on your system
If in doubt, check your state or local licensing board. Licenses should be public information. Many licensing boards have quick searches on their websites to allow you to check the license status of any company in your local area.
Also, any technicians the company sends to do maintenance or repairs should be properly certified. Check state and local codes to see the specific requirements for your area. When you schedule an appointment, ask the company about the specific technician that will be servicing your system. Make sure each individual is properly qualified for the work you are hiring them to perform.
Are You Insured?
Hiring a properly insured company is important just in case something goes wrong while the technician is working on your home. You don’t want to be sued for injury. Ask the company if they carry worker’s compensation and liability insurance. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
How Much Experience Do You Have?
Knowing how much experience a company has can provide you with peace of mind when hiring them. A company with a history of poor customer service, sketchy business practices, or sloppy work isn’t going to stay in business for very long.
However, just because a company hasn’t been in business for decades, doesn’t mean they aren’t qualified. In the absence of a long local history, consider asking about their education and other credentials.
Do You Have Experience with My Specific Unit?
This question is somewhat related to the previous one. Even though a company may have been in business for decades, if they do not have specific knowledge and experience with your system, they may not be the best company for the job.
Do You Have Customer References?
By hearing what previous customers have to say about the company, you can get a feel for the quality of work and service they offer. Most companies will have customer ratings or reviews on their website or social media pages.
Even the best companies may have an occasional bad review. Be sure to look at specific negative complaints to see if they are justified. While you are at it, check the positive reviews to make sure they are specific and genuine.
What is Your Satisfaction Guarantee?
Ask the company if they will refund your money if the service does not meet your satisfaction. For instance, if the repair only lasts for a short time. While some repairs can’t be completely guaranteed, especially on older systems, it is important exactly what the company is offering before they begin servicing your unit.
Get these guarantees in advance and in writing. Also, if you get a quote on repair costs, get everything in writing prior to the start of repairs.
Whether you’re purchasing your first system or you’re a seasoned homeowner looking for routine maintenance, it’s important to know what to expect. By asking these questions of your local HVAC company, you’ll know you are hiring someone qualified for such an important job.