Choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor
First try to learn a little about air conditioning and heating this will save you time, money and some aggravation when you choose a company to repair or replace your system. When purchasing a new heating and air system, be careful who you select because regardless of the brand you choose if you do not have qualified technicians doing the work you will wind up very unsatisfied. Below we give you a few suggestions on how to choose an air conditioning and heating company. Even if you do not find the company in this directory it is hopeful this will help you in your search.
As always ask a friend or neighbor for referrals and use a local business directory. Find four companies and start investigating. Never go based on what a neighbor or friend says only. This could be trouble as some contractors may not be licensed and insured and your friend or neighbor neglected to check. Even unqualified companies can skate by sometimes unnoticed. You someone who does a good job almost every single time. Check them out. Now if you have a whole lot of folks telling you about someone then chances are that is good.
Most air conditioning contractors can provide a list of recent satisfied customers. If not you should probably not do business with them. And if they do, make sure you call at least three of the references and ask them about service, punctuality, and professionalism.
Make sure the HVAC contractor’s license is current, and see if the governing agency publishes a history of disciplinary actions or complaints you can see. Check the state licensing board to see if they are licensed.
When considering a HVAC contractor, ask to see recent verification that they carry general liability to protect your property as well as worker’s compensation insurance on their employees. Lack of adequate insurance could be a major headache for you if anyone gets hurt at your property.
Before you meet with a potential contractor you should check with your home/building insurance agent to ask if there are any other insurance considerations for the type of work you are considering.
Be sure to find out how long the contractor has been operating in the same city under the same name, and if the company has any additional operating names. Longer, of course, is better. The contractor should be able to provide a physical address, or some way to contact them other than a mobile phone number.
Select a HVAC contractor whose technicians are certified and have on the job experience. Due to rapid advances in the industry technicians should be trained in the latest equipment and tools.
Ideally the HVAC contractor you choose will install, maintain and repair your heating and air conditioning system for many years. You should pick one that has the kind of employees you will feel comfortable having in your home.
An air conditioning and heating company should be easy to reach 24 hours a day. And you should be able to use them for emergencies as well as routine service calls. It is always better to have the company who installed your unit to service it and maintain it. Get the number of bids that allows you to feel confident to move forward with your decision. For some owners, getting up to three bids on a long term, substantial purchase can be worth the time and effort.
Make sure you receive a detailed written description before work begins. Some of the main points include:
· start and end dates
· maximum number of days you could be without heating or cooling
· costs for specifics of all known equipment, supplies, and labor
· costs for any variables, contingencies, or upgrades that could arise while replacing equipment (highest possible, plus increments below that)
· change order policy, if any (make sure any changes are in writing also)
· final payment due after work is complete, and if there will be interim draws needed. Preferably no up front costs. If so, no more than 1/3.
· insurance documents as listed above
Especially if dealing with new construction, another item you might ask for is to have a copy of the “load” calculations (ACCA Manual J® is the industry standard) that the HVAC contractor uses to determine the size of and type of equipment to install for you. If, for example, you have heating and air conditioning installed during cool or cold weather, this could prove useful if you were to discover a problem when you turn on your air conditioning the next summer.
Be sure to address on your bid and contract whether they include new ductwork. If any ductwork needs must be discovered during installation, specify what type and how much per linear foot or, preferably, a fixed price for all. If the possible use of all or part of your existing ductwork or your other equipment creates a variable or contingency, then get a figure that the maximum the work would cost if all the existing equipment needs to be replaced along with increments below that.
Pay particular attention to warranty periods, including the manufacturer’s parts and labor warranty on the compressor(s), condenser and evaporator coils, furnace heat exchanger(s), and fans plus any additional warranty the contractor provides.
God Bless You.
Ocala Heating And Air companies listed in this business directory are qualified, experienced professionals who can handle all of your heating and air needs. Professional HVAC contractors in the Ocala Service Directory keep up with all new standards and training available to make sure you get the best quality in air conditioning installation, service and repair.
Ocala Service Directory
