Finding an HVAC contractor you trust, whether to repair an existing unit or install an energy-saving replacement, is critical. Plenty of contractors are out there; how can you narrow it down?
Word-of-mouth referrals can be an excellent starting point. Consult friends and family about their experiences working with potential service providers; pay particular attention to testimonials from past customers who may provide insight.
When seeking a reliable HVAC contractor, it’s always wise to tap into your social network for recommendations. If you live near Bullhead City or anywhere near there, visit River Valley for the best HVAC pros in the state.
Ask for referrals
Referrals are one of the best ways to locate an HVAC company. Call on your friends, family and neighbors for their suggestions, and read reviews from customers with similar HVAC needs as your own – those who can provide honest feedback regarding which companies would best meet them should do.
If a company refuses to give references, this should be seen as an immediate red flag. Even if there aren’t many unhappy customers, refusing to provide local contact info indicates they may not be an ethical company to work with.
Professional HVAC companies should present themselves well. This applies to their vehicles and offices/shops and any representatives that come out for estimates in your home – make sure they’re wearing uniforms with professional paraphernalia like photo ID tags so you can verify they are the person you talked to over the phone!
Check online listings
Your heating and cooling systems need efficient care and maintenance like any vehicle; old systems may break down, while even newly installed units may encounter issues. When this occurs, it’s essential that a reliable HVAC contractor be on call to perform necessary repairs or replacements.
When searching for an HVAC company, look at online listings across several websites for more in-depth knowledge of what they provide than simply reading their profile on one site. This will give you a much clearer sense of their work than solely trusting what their website says about themselves.
One way of conducting an in-depth online review search of any given contractor is by visiting its Google Business Page. Customers are free to leave reviews here, which can’t easily be changed or falsified.
Also, read reviews on Google, Facebook and Yelp of each contractor before hiring them. These sites provide a more realistic picture of what it’s like working with each business.
Pay particular attention to star ratings and reviews available, as this can indicate how other people have felt using the contractor in question. Frequent lateness or cancellation may signal scheduling issues affecting their ability to correctly install and repair equipment in homes and businesses.
Look for licenses and certifications
Once you’ve narrowed down your HVAC contractor selections, looking closely at their credentials is advisable. Searching for certifications and licenses is recommended as this will show that they are professional, reputable contractors held in high regard in their industry.
A top-rated contractor should be licensed by your state, city, or county and carry insurance policies in your name as the homeowner. Ask each of them what types and amounts of insurance policies they have and whether copies can be provided upon request.
Having them licensed and insured means you won’t be held liable in case there is an accident during repairs or installation works.
As well as getting referrals, it is also advisable to review an HVAC company’s website thoroughly. Check the reviews along with licensing details, to verify they are legitimate businesses in your region.
Cost
Once you have narrowed down your choices, it is worthwhile to ask each company for a written estimate of costs and quality workmanship and service. While you want quality service, cost is important, too.
Get a few quotes before settling on one to make sure no one is ripping you off.
Quick note: Being present when technicians visit your home can give you insight into their punctuality, communication skills and professionalism.
Do they own their own equipment?
Another key consideration when hiring HVAC contractors is whether or not they own their equipment. This is especially important for installing an HVAC system in your home or building.
Moreover, renting or borrowing equipment could create issues if payments aren’t completed in time. Good contractors will typically own their equipment to honor warranties, work agreements, guarantees and financing terms they offer you.
Don’t settle for companies who do subpar installations that result in reduced efficiency, higher utility bills or costly repairs down the line.
