The choice of an HVAC contractor is a challenging task. Both homes and workplaces need heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) plants to keep things cool. Choosing the right contractor to install or repair your system is critical.
Research and Ask for Referrals
A more reliable way to find a good HVAC contractor is through research or by word-of-mouth from friends, family or neighbors. Online reviews and ratings are another way to get an idea of the quality of customer service from a given contractor. Also, ask for references directly from the contractors and then contact some of their past customers to learn how they perform.
Meet Licensure and Insurance Standards
For HVAC, contractors must have the proper license and insurance to do business legally. Ensure the contractor has an active state license and liability insurance before hiring one. A contractor trained, educated and tested by state licensing requirements holds a license. Also, certification means that the contractor has undergone training in a particular piece of equipment or technology. This means they have the right knowledge, skills and experience to work on HVAC systems. The quality of the services is guaranteed; safety standards will do everything.
Look for Experience and Expertise
These problems are complex, and only skilled workers can install the systems correctly. Seek contractors with several years ‘experience and a reputation for quality service. An experienced contractor has been in the industry for many years and is familiar with the latest technologies, equipment and practices. An experienced contractor should be able to diagnose and find the best solution for any problems that may arise, which is cost-effective. Even during maintenance, an experienced contractor can tell you how to tune the HVAC system for maximum performance and minimum energy use. At Specialty Heating & Cooling LLC, we offer heating and cooling services in Tigard, OR.
Compare Estimates
Estimates from several contractors must first be obtained before making a choice. This will not only help you compare prices but also give you an idea of the average cost for services. But be careful of cheap-sounding quotes or extremely high fees, as they may indicate inferior service rather than superior value.
Ask about Warranties and Maintenance Plans
Does the contractor provide guarantees for their workmanship? Do they have a maintenance program available? A good HVAC contractor will guarantee their work and provide a warranty, so if something goes wrong, you will be sure to have the problem fixed. Furthermore, join their maintenance plan to keep the system properly checked and maintained occasionally.
Check for Energy-Efficient Options
An energy-efficient HVAC system will reduce your utility bill in the long run. Want to learn more about saving energy from the contractor in remodeling your home and office? Look him up for a chat. They should be able to quote figures on various systems’ energy ratings and assist your decision-making.
Ask for a Written Contract
For the sake of transparency and to prevent misunderstandings, it is necessary to first ask the contractor for a written estimate. The written estimate breaks down the projected cost of materials, manpower and other miscellaneous items for a project. An ideal contractor will give you an accurate, itemized estimate which includes all the services and costs involved.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
One big red flag is the need for more licensing and insurance. To work within the law, HVAC contractors must have licenses and insurance. This also protects you as a customer and ensures that the contractor you retain has received proper training.
Inadequate Equipment and Tools
The second red flag when choosing an HVAC contractor is finding one who needs more equipment and tools. HVAC systems are no simple task. They require specialized equipment and tools for installing, repairing and maintaining them. Any contractor who shows up at your job site without the correct, current equipment should be suspected of needing more experience and skill for quality work.
Unreliable Schedules
HVAC projects can be very complex and may take a long time, but if you hire the right contractor, he should provide an accurate schedule. If his schedule is indefinite or ridiculous, one warning sign is that the contractor needs more experience to complete this job on time.
Offers of a Deal Too Good to Be True
Though finding an inexpensive HVAC contractor you can trust is a win, beware of those who offer impossibly low rates or discounts. However, a low estimate that seems too good to be true or even one offered by the contractor himself could indicate corners are being cut and substandard products used. What you want is a contractor who will tell you up front the price they charge.
Hidden Fees and Additional Charges
Before choosing an HVAC contractor, here are a few essential things to look for. A few contractors try to increase profits by adding hidden charges. This is a surprise expense for you as the consumer.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
However, some HVAC contractors may pressure you into making a quick decision with aggressive sales techniques. Watch out for such tricks. Before settling on something, take your time and do some comparative research first.
Lack of References or Reviews
Do your homework before hiring an HVAC contractor. If a company doesn’t have any reviews, consider the possibility that they’ve scrubbed their online profile or simply lack the experience necessary to meet your needs.
Extremely Low Estimates
You naturally want to choose the contractor with the lowest bid but remember: you get what you pay for. An extremely low estimate may mean poor quality materials or work and could cost you more than if done right the first time.
No Permit for the Work
Homeowners and businesses are responsible for obtaining the necessary permits to do HVAC work, while it’s up to your hired contractor to ensure they have obtained all of the required ones. Permits ensure the work is performed up to standards and codes while keeping you from having costly problems obtaining or maintaining your property’s insurance policy. Watch out if the contractor is reluctant to get permits.
No Guarantees or Warranties
Contractors who do their job right should be willing to have some accountability and offer guarantees or warranties on projects. If a contractor doesn’t offer any guarantee or warranty, this could indicate that they don’t have confidence in their work and do not have the right skills to do it properly.
Poor Communication and Customer Service
Communication is key to a successful HVAC project. If contractors take time to get back to you or are hard to reach, they aren’t particularly organized or professional. From start to finish, contractors should be responsive and amenable.
When deciding how to install and maintain your system, you must choose the right HVAC contractor since making a poor choice can affect its efficiency. At Specialty Heating & Cooling LLC, we are your go-to HVAC contractor. Our HVAC service includes commercial and residential air conditioning & heating services covering a full range of areas such as gas and electric furnace services, heat pump or ductless heat pumps, and Indoor air quality, including indoor climate control and duct cleaning. Contact us today to find out what we can do for you.
