A Guide to Choosing the Best HVAC Company
Check their credentials
A great place to start is by asking any prospective HVAC technician to see their credentials. Although they look official, not every person in a spiffy uniform and a van with a sign is a licensed, insured, and bonded HVAC technician with the skills necessary to effectively complete your repairs.
Check with your local licensing office to make sure that the HVAC technician is up to date on all current licensing, and call the insurance company listed with the HVAC company to assure that they are insured for the type of work taking place at your home. The last thing you want to happen is for you to be held liable for a technician being hurt on your property because there was a lapse in coverage.
Look at their level of training
In the same way that, if you had a specific ailment, you wouldn’t go to a doctor without first making sure they understand your condition, it pays to make sure that a potential HVAC technician understands and knows your specific equipment. It goes without saying that if you call a company and ask them a specific question they can’t answer, it could be a major red flag.
Make sure to call a company and talk to one of their technicians. Describe what problems you’re having, and what equipment you have. If they’re worth their salt, they should be able to tell you what you may be dealing with over the phone, without looking at it. Even with simple fixes, you should have the peace of mind to know that your technician knows what they’re doing before they step foot on your property.
Ask if they provide estimates
Cost is always a concern with projects, and getting an accurate reading on just how much you’re looking to shell out can be paramount. Nearly everyone will be able to give you a ballpark estimate of costs involved, but it would be best to be wary of anyone that promises a singular price, lest you be surprised at the final bill later on. Many companies offer free estimates on high ticket items like unit swaps and compressor changeouts, etc. .
Once they do provide you with an estimate, ask them to provide you with a written contract. This is a great way to ensure that you don’t get stuck with a bill that is higher than what you thought it would be.
Look at previous customer reviews
One of the best ways to make sure a company is a great option is to check the plethora of different review websites available on the internet. You can find reviews on websites such as Google Business, Facebook, and Yelp. There is no shortage of people willing to tell you about their experience, good or bad, with any particular business. Typically, if a company has a decent reputation in your community, it’s going to be reflected here.
You can also check websites such as the Better Business Bureau. Check for BBB accreditation, a rating of B+ or higher and 4-5 star customer reviews. You may also want to check to see if any complaints have been filed. This is a great way to get a good first impression of an HVAC company.
Consider affordability and financing options
It’s no secret that HVAC repairs can cost a pretty penny, especially when preventative maintenance has not been taken. Look for any contractors that offer flexible financing, coupons, or special savings. Most often, these companies are looking out for your best interest. A good guide is to shop around offers, and to take the middle ground offer, as this is usually the fairest of the bunch.
Look for great customer service above all else
When shopping around for HVAC companies, keep an ear out for those that sound friendlier than others. No one wants to deal with gruff-sounding mechanics. Does the company sound respectful, and willing to go the extra mile to make your problem go away? Perhaps they offer a satisfaction guarantee, or they have a phone representative that seems exceedingly pleasant. When a technician enters your home, take note of their behavior. An ideal candidate should always greet you, be respectful and courteous of you and your home, clean up after themselves, and be ready and able to answer any questions you may have about anything they’re doing. At the core of any great HVAC company is a core of great customer service, so this is a wonderful litmus test of where their priorities lie.
On Time Home Services Knows HVAC
Like any other machine, your HVAC system requires care. But your heating system can still experience problems, even when you’re caring for it responsibly. You will need to schedule regular HVAC inspections to identify potential risks and solve small problems before they become big problems.
That’s where we come in.
Whether you need a new system, need emergency repairs, or want to book repairs on your existing HVAC system from the Bakersfield HVAC repair experts, turn to the pros at On Time Home Services.
Our trained HVAC technicians will troubleshoot issues with your heating system, install a replacement, or recommend an energy-efficient system for your new construction.
We have extensive training and expertise in all stages of installation, repair, and maintenance of most major HVAC manufacturers. We’ll inspect your current unit to help you determine if it can work more efficiently, or whether a replacement is truly necessary.
Get in touch with our team today to schedule a consultation!
