11 Tips for Hiring the Best Air Conditioning Technician
You must make the right decision when hiring an air conditioning technician. You have to remember that the desired person or company is trustful and honest when it comes to repairs and costs. To keep your machines running efficiently, you need to search a reliable, professional, and trusted HVAC specialist before things go out of hand.
Stop making excuses and start your search for a professional technician in town. We have listed a few tips to help you find the best air conditioning service company.
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Research well
Try to familiarize yourself with your air conditioning system and know about the type, model, brand, maintenance history, etc. Track the rooms that are particularly uncomfortable so that you have a rough idea of all AC related issues.
Invest time in reading about your unit, which would help in diagnosing any potential problems in the future. This way you can detect issues early without causing a dent in your pocket.
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Ask for recommendations
There’s nothing wrong with asking for referrals from nearby friends and relatives. Don’t limit yourself to just your friends and family; ask around your workplace and neighborhood.
Tell them about your HVAC issues and feel free to ask about the company’s professionalism, pricing rates, and overall quality of work.
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Look for experience
This is super simple! Just call your contractor and ask some of the below relevant questions:
- How long have they been in business?
- Are they full-time or part-time contractors?
- What experience do they have with your system in particular?
- What are their areas of expertise?
- What continuing education or training have they had recently to keep up with changing technology?
You may even find some of the above answers on their website. Nothing is better than finding a contractor who has worked on similar systems for a long time. This also means that they have the necessary expertise and adequate knowledge about air conditioning service.
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Search for a licensed company
A technician with a license number means that they are experts and won’t give you a headache. A professional license number is issued by the government, indicating the company is authentic and trustworthy.
Most HVAC companies clearly display their licensing information on their websites, business cards, and vehicles. Look for a company that is awarded and has additional licenses in other areas – this is a better sign that you are heading in the right direction.
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Look for the proof of insurance
Normally, every service company is covered by general liability and workers’ compensation. The reason is that services and installing air conditioning units is a hazardous work. Whenever you hire a contractor, don’t hesitate to ask for this proof.
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Go through reviews and client testimonials
It’s a good habit to read client reviews and testimonials to help you understand what you will be expecting from the desired company. Try to read all the reviews, including the ugly ones, to know their work quality and issues accordingly.
Also, remember that reviews are not the same as testimonials. Testimonials are the best feedback from clients who are blown away by their air conditioning repair service. It would be advisable to check third-party reviews on Google and other social media accounts.
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Be specific about your issues
If you’re planning to contact your nearest air conditioning service provider, then make sure you’re well-versed about your problem. Go through the ‘service’ section as most of the companies offer specific services for air conditioners and heaters.
Thus, customers will be able to know beforehand whether they will get help or not. After going through their service page, you can also ask for the service’s total price and can negotiate before going ahead with the service.
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Compare the costs
Don’t fall for cheap deals as it doesn’t always mean the best. Several companies offer incredible and affordable services, but their work is not satisfactory at all. Look for a reliable service provider that provides the best value for your money. Opt for professional home ac service company.
Investigate their history and customer reviews to know if their pricing is worth it or not.
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Get a quote
After all the research, there’s nothing wrong with taking a second to pick up the phone and getting a quote for the services you need. Speak to your company you’re planning to hire and arrange a diagnostic visit. It’s the best option to see how much you can trust them and see how well they’re to handle your HVAC issues.
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Ask for a written estimation
A written, itemized estimate should include factors such as the labor and materials cost, potential energy saving, warranties, tax rebates, etc.
Know the difference between upfront and long-term costs. It won’t make any difference in picking the cheapest technician if your energy costs increase after installation. Don’t forget to look for exclusive offers and discounts!
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Trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right when it comes to service or just the professionalism, don’t hire that contractor.
It’s time you start detecting the early signs of HVAC issues to prevent bigger problems from damaging your home’s AC unit. Common signs that determine you need HVAC repairs include:
- Insufficient airflow
- High humidity
- Water leaks
- Bad odors
- Unusual noises
Don’t wait any longer to hire an HVAC contractor, if you notice any of these signs.
Other than these, if you’re an eco-friendly type person, then be sure you find out what they do to promote energy, water conservation, and whether they carry ‘Energy Star’ qualified products.
You can simply ask them about their environmental friendliness precautions. A good air conditioning technician will always provide you with everything from the efficiency of the system to its environmental measures.
Finding the right person to repair your air conditioning unit can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. The above handy tips will surely help you to find a good technician and save you from going bankrupt.
Do you have any additional tips for choosing the right air conditioning technician? Share them in the comments below!
Author Bio:
Sophia Gagnon has been in the HVAC business with Vital AC Solutions for more than 25 years. She is a state-licensed heating and A/C contractor and certified in design, fabrication, layout, and installation of forced air heating/cooling systems. To add, she is an enthusiastic candid photographer who loves to write about technology, photography, and DIY projects.