No matter what time of year it is, it’s never a good time for your heating or AC to go out. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up or emergency heating repair in Atlanta, there are a few things you should consider before you hire a new HVAC contractor. How do you find the best contractors in the area and protect yourself from scam artists? Check out these tips from the experts at Cool Air Mechanical.
Business Credentials
The first thing you need to think about when searching for an HVAC repair service is legitimacy. How do you know if a business is real or not? Always ask for a business license and company insurance information up front. You can usually ask for this over the phone or via email without anyone setting foot on your property. You can verify a business license with the licensing authority who issued it, which is usually your local business bureau. The license should be up to date and in good standing. Question any lapse in licensure and any formal complaints. Business insurance will vary by state, but the basic requirement should protect you in the event a service technician makes a mistake that results in injury or property damage.
Certifications & Training
Next, consider the companies educational standards. What are the educational qualifications of their technicians and trainees? Many HVAC repair companies require some college-level courses or vocational training through a local technical center. Vocational training includes classes geared specifically towards heating and air conditioning repair as well as sustainable engineering practices. OSHA training is usually standard for HVAC technicians. Guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ensure the safety of clients and technicians with protocols dictating how to handle power equipment and harsh chemicals.
This is especially important if you have concerns about mold in your HVAC system. Is your technician qualified to detect, handle, and treat mold inside your unit? Also, it is a plus when a contractor is registered with a nationally accredited group like the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning (ASHRAE). In order to be a part of these organizations, an HVAC company must be up to date on the latest industry standards and safety protocol.
![Repairman Fixing the Heating Units]()
Reading Reviews
Finally, consider the company’s reputation around town. One of the easiest ways to find businesses in your area is by word-of-mouth. Ask your neighbors, friends, family, co-workers, and even other businesses who they call when their HVAC unit is acting up. You can also check online reviews with Angie’s List, Google, and even Facebook. Probably the best place to check reviews is the Better Business Bureau. Here, consumers can post both compliments and complaints. Businesses are allowed to resolve complaints using this unbiased, third-party system. Pay careful attention to how businesses handle and resolve issues as this ability is a hallmark of companies who put the needs of their clients first.
Armed with these three basic tips from Cool Air Mechanical, you’re sure to find the best companies for home heating repair in Atlanta.
