If you're having problems with your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system (HVAC), are considering replacing an old unit, or just think it's time for a service call, you are going to want to secure the most competent HVAC contractor you can. Here are some steps to help ensure you hire the best HVAC contractor available.

Check Business Reputation

The first step is to check the business history of the company. Most reputable HVAC contractors will have produced customer reviews. Check your local Better Business Bureau first. Disgruntled customers will often run to file a complaint with the BBB before they do anything else.

A company's reputation with previous customers can tell you a lot. If you know of anyone who has hired an HVAC contractor, ask them about their experience.

Make an Internet search using the company name followed by the word reviews in your search. Online HVAC company reviews can be sketchy, especially if you live in a small community. While national HVAC services will most likely have a source of reviews, you should look for the reputation of your local branch if possible. Many times reviews, especially negative ones, are directly attributed to the immediate staff members that you are thinking about hiring.

Lastly, check local court records to see whether there have been any lawsuits or judgments filed against any HVAC companies. Any that have a history of litigation should be erased from your list.

Once you've checked the BBB records, researched any customer reviews, and searched for legal problems, you will have a list of possibilities. Now it's time to get your questions in order for the representative from these companies that will be vying for your business.

Two Important Questions to Ask

Some of the questions you will need to ask an HVAC professional will be specific to what service you need. Before you get to that point, you need to trust the HVAC business you want to do the job, large or small.

These two basic questions and the information provided will help you narrow down your choices. Once you have confidence in an HVAC contractor, you'll be more comfortable with the detailed questions addressing precisely what you need. These questions will ensure you choose a good company.

1. Do You Offer Free Inspections and Estimates

If the company offers to quote you an estimate over the phone when you call for an appointment, graciously say good-bye and hang up the phone. No reputable HVAC technician is going to attempt to diagnose a heating or air-conditioning problem over the telephone.

If the company does not offer free inspections and then hands you a written estimate of the cost, move on to the next option on your list. If they have enough confidence in their business reputation, they will provide free written estimates so you can make an educated financial decision.

2. Licensing and Accreditation

Now that you have a list of potential contractors that will provide free estimates and are comfortable providing referrals, begin to ask questions about licensing and accreditations. All HVAC contractors who are not fly-by-night handymen will meet all state licensing requirements.

Check the licensing requirements in your state prior to meeting with a technician personally. It will let them know you have done your homework. Also, you can look up some of the accrediting agencies that many of the most reputable HVAC contractors are members of. Don't be embarrassed to ask to see documentation of their licenses and accreditation.

Checking an HVAC contractor's business history will help you sort out potential problems. Understanding that you should be able to get a free estimate plus documentation of their licensing and accreditations will allow you to eliminate less reputable companies. Once you pick a trustworthy contractor, you'll be able to relax knowing they value their reputation and will provide you with an honest job. 

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