What really matters when choosing a heating and air company?
Just driving down the road you’ll see many signs posted advertising a Chico heating and air conditioning company. How do you wade through all the advertising in the newspaper and on the internet? Let’s look at a few things to consider that will help you make the right choice.
Longevity of the Business
While longevity in business is not always a good indicator it is something that can be used as a benchmark. A reputable business will stay around for awhile. As in most businesses the heating and air trade depends on its repeat customers. Customers that keep coming back are the lifeblood of any business. A satisfied customer will also provide to friends and family unsolicited testimonials. In other words, if they are happy with the service provided they will refer the business to family and friends with no reservations. Word of mouth is one of the best forms of advertising for any business. It is one of the most cost effective also. All it takes is good and timely service at a fair price. Win over the customer and you have them for life.
Product Lines Sold and Serviced
Look at the product lines offered for sale and installation and the product lines serviced. Most manufacturers offer to train technicians of heating and air companies on how not only to install their product properly but also in the service of their product line. This is because these manufacturers know their name is on the line and in the hands of the company technicians. A well installed and maintained product earns them that “golden” word of mouth advertising mentioned above. They see the value in making sure their product is installed, maintained and repaired correctly.
Licensing and Insurance
A trustworthy heating and air company will be properly licensed for the jurisdictions that they do business in. This can mean that not only do they hold a state license but possibly one for each county and municipal jurisdiction that they work in. It also indicates that they have been trained and tested in proper business practices and also in the craft of their particular trade. The jurisdiction that issued the license says that they meet a minimal standard. Proper insurance is also important. Does the company carry liability and workman's comp insurance? A reputable business will in order to reduce both their own and your liability in case of an accident due to one of their workers.
Additional Certifications
You will find that trustworthy heating and air companies often carry additional certifications and endorsements from various organizations. Some of these may include the Better Business Bureau, trade associations and training organizations. One that is important in California is a Title 24 HERS Certification. This means that training in energy efficiency was achieved by the company in home energy cost efficiency measures. What this means to you as a consumer is that the company you hire is dedicated to making sure your heating and air system is running correctly and at peak efficiency thus saving you money on both energy use, repairs and maintenance costs.
When you go to choose a company to either install or maintain your present Chico HVAC system you will do well to look at some of the factors listed above. If you do you will be well on your way to hiring a trustworthy heating and air company.
