What to Look for in a Technician
Submitted by andread on April 1, 2010 – 12:44 pmNo Comment
There are many heating & air companies out there, but they are definitely not all the same. So, you’re probably wondering what to look for in a technician, installer or plumber. Here are a few of the basics you should look for and not expect less.
- Upfront Pricing: You should always count on knowing how much your project will cost before any work is done, when a company is committed to upfront and fair pricing. And if the company charges by the job, not by the hour, you won’t get stuck paying high hourly rates or run-around time.
- Appearance Counts: Your technician should arrive in a clean uniform with a company logo, clean-shaven, and with a company vehicle. Ask if they have a business card, as well.
- Ask for a License: Ask your technician for their company’s contractor license number, as all professionals should have one and respect you for asking.
- Appointment Window: You should be given an appointment window for a period of time when your technician will arrive, so you don’t have to wait around all day for them to show up. Also, the technician’s dispatcher should call and inform you of when your technician should arrive, when they are on their way.
- Trusted Technicians: Allowing workers in your home requires trust. Check if the company does background checks or drug screening on their employees. You will never regret being safe. Also, check to see that they are at least EPA certified, if not NATE certified technicians as well.
The Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Contractor:
By selecting a qualified heating and cooling contractor you will avoid many of the common home improvement hazards including:
- Frequent system breakdowns
- Improper installation
- Unsafe and/or inefficient operation
- Shortened equipment life
- Lack of timely service
- Unusually high energy bills
- Voiding of factory warranties
- Theft, property damage or worse
- Building Code Infractions and penalties
