If you haven’t worked with an HVAC company before, you might assume they’re all the same, but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s always a smart idea to research any business before having them do work in your home.
As with any business, heating, and cooling companies are very different. You might get lucky and work with a high-quality HVAC contractor that approaches its work thoughtfully, or you might end up with a company that tries to maximize its profits by cutting corners and using cheap materials. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to make sure that when you’re considering HVAC companies to find one that you will be happy with.
Public Reputation
Today, it’s easy to compare providers of all kinds by looking at reviews on sites such as Google, Angi, Facebook, and Yelp. Those reviews reflect the real-life experiences of people who have used those companies, and taking a little extra time to do some research can pay off. A reputable HVAC company should have consistently good reviews that are supported by positive comments, you can probably choose them with confidence. It’s also a good idea to ask your friends and family about some of the HVAC companies they’ve worked with in the past as well.
Excellent Service
It’s usually pretty easy to identify good service from the first phone call. When you call to set an appointment, if the person on the other end is rude or acts like you’re interrupting something more important, it’s probably not the best choice. On the other hand, if the customer service staff is genuinely helpful and interested in addressing your needs, that’s a good sign. The same goes for the HVAC technician who comes to your house. If they’re friendly and polite, and they show respect for your property, you’re probably in good hands.
Have Industry Credentials
Before an HVAC company performs any work on your house, it’s important to make sure the company is insured and licensed, and that its service technicians are properly trained. Many HVAC companies will list on their website if their team is certified by the North American Technician Excellence organization or NATE. A NATE certification speaks for professionalism and quality. A reputable HVAC contractor may also be a factory-authorized dealer for a quality brand. This means they will only sell new HVAC units of that particular brand, but they can apply repairs to any kind of HVAC system.
They Have a Real Office
There are some contractors who work out of their vans, using their cell phones as an “office.” You’re better off with an established local business that has a real brick-and-mortar office. Ideally, that heating and cooling company has been at work in your community for many years and its employees also call your area home. After all, you want to be confident that they’ll be around to handle any repairs that are needed.
Speaking of that, you also want to make sure the company offers emergency services. HVAC equipment rarely breaks down at “convenient” times. When your heating system fails at 3 a.m. during a cold snap, you don’t want to wait for help – and you shouldn’t have to!
No Phone Estimates
When you need repairs or HVAC equipment, you want to know what it will cost you. Top-quality heating and cooling companies will charge you a fair price, but probably can’t tell you what that price will be until they see your system. There may be complications – or they may be able to resolve the problem quickly and easily. Be wary of any numbers you’re given sight unseen.
They Emphasize Safety
Heating and cooling work may not seem dangerous, but don’t forget that HVAC technicians work with electricity and natural gas, and no two homes or systems are exactly alike. The best companies train their technicians in safe practices and those technicians prioritize safety on the job. That means there’s less chance that someone will get hurt or your home will be damaged.
There’s No Pressure
Good heating and cooling companies make recommendations based on your home’s needs and your budget and are happy to discuss the options that are available to you. For example, they might recommend replacing your system but might also offer repair options. Their cost estimates will be valid whether you approve the work today or need a few days to think about it. Beware of contractors who demand you replace equipment, offer just one option, quote a price, and tell you it’s available only if you agree to it right now.
Not only can shopping around for quotes help you friend the best price for an HVAC system, but you might also use the opportunity to learn more about the HVAC contractors that you’re considering and experience their services firsthand. You may find that the lowest price in town comes from a company that has terrible customer service. A reliable HVAC professional company is worth paying a little extra for.
Work With Quality – Work With Nardco
The best heating and cooling companies back everything they do with solid, straightforward guarantees that are in writing. If your system develops a problem, they’ll be back to fix it properly. That’s how Nardco Heating and Air Conditioning has always handled our work, and it’s why our customers are eager to give us great reviews and strong recommendations! Check out our stellar reviews on Google to see what other customers have said about our work. A quality HVAC contractor wants you to share your experiences with your friends too! If you’ve worked with Nardco in the past, leave us a review, or count on us again for quality HVAC maintenance, repair, and installation services.
