The HVAC system is one of the most expensive and complex systems in your home. When repairs, maintenance or equipment upgrades are needed, hiring an HVAC contractor who’s reputable, qualified and experienced is critical to maintain your family’s comfort and protect your investment.
This quick hiring guide can help you find the right qualified pro for the job:
- Get referrals. Ask family, friends and coworkers for the names of HVAC contractors they’ve hired in the past. Contact HVAC equipment suppliers and manufacturers for the names of recommended area installers, and also look at online sources for reviews of local contractors.
- Verify licensing. Check with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to make sure a contractor is licensed and bonded. See whether they’re in good standing or have any past issues that aren’t resolved.
- Check for NATE certification. You can rest easy about receiving quality repairs and installations if a contractor hires NATE certified technicians who’ve passed stringent independent testing on their training, skills and HVAC knowledge.
- Inquire about insurance. Reputable contractors have insurance such as Workers’ Compensation and liability coverage in place to protect their customers in case of job-site injuries or accidental property damage.
- Call references. Rather than relying on testimonials, get the names of several recent customers from every contractor you’re considering. Call each one and ask whether work was performed well and completed on time—and on budget.
- Investigate reputation. Find out how long a contractor has been in business, check their Better Business Bureau rating and see if they’re affiliated with the local Chamber of Commerce or other credible area organizations.
- Get estimates. Qualified contractors will assess your HVAC system and provide you with a detailed written estimate showing costs for parts, equipment, labor and time-frame for completing the work.
- Ask about guarantees. A contractor who’s reputable backs up the work they perform with a written guarantee, and they’ll likely offer affordable maintenance service agreements as well.
For advice about hiring an HVAC contractor, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We’ve served the home comfort needs of the Yuma area since 1952.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC contractors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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