How to Hire a Good HVAC Contractor
HVAC contractors install and maintain heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. They also provide services to help reduce energy costs. They often work in residential or commercial buildings.
A good contractor should know about your home’s heating and cooling systems, but they should be able to diagnose problems and give you advice about how to best use them. They may suggest sealing windows, adding ductwork or other steps that can save you money on your utility bills.
When hiring an HVAC contractor, you should look for credentials that are valid and backed by experience. Ensure the person you hire has a license, insurance policy and a proven track record. This should include reviews from customers and previous clients.
You should also find out how long the HVAC contractor has been in business and whether they’ve ever been sued or disciplined. You should also check with your state’s licensing board to learn more about their requirements for licenses and insurance.
EPA certifications are a good idea for any HVAC technician or contractor who deals with refrigerants, which can cause environmental damage if not handled correctly. Getting these certificates can be done through an EPA-approved community college or trade school.
Other qualifications for an HVAC technician can include an associate degree from an accredited community or technical college. They also have the option of pursuing an apprenticeship through an employer or union. These programs can last three to five years.
An EPA certificate is one of the most valuable things you can get as an HVAC contractor, because it gives you access to the EPA’s guidelines for handling and disposing of refrigerants safely. These guidelines can also help you keep your business up-to-date on any new regulations regarding refrigerants and other topics.
HVAC contractors have the ability to create service requests, track employee time and schedule appointments. These tools automate many of the tasks that are done manually by technicians, reducing labor costs and allowing employees to focus on their work.
They can also keep customer information, including payment history, secure. Keeping a good customer database is a key part of running a successful HVAC contractor business.
You should also ask for references from current and former customers before hiring an HVAC contractor. This will give you an idea of the quality of work they do and how well they treat their customers.
Finally, you should read online reviews about the HVAC contractors you’re considering. Those on sites like Yelp or Angi will provide you with an overview of their work. You can also seek personal recommendations from friends and local home improvement businesses.
You should always look for an EPA-certified and insured HVAC technician when you need one to work in your building. This will ensure that your air and water are safe to breathe, and that your business is protected from lawsuits and liability claims. In addition, an EPA-certified technician will be able to properly dispose of your refrigerants and other waste materials that come from the installation process.