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Choosing an HVAC company can be a complicated task. However, with a little research and avoiding the common mistakes, you can find the right company to meet your needs.
The most important thing to remember is that not all heating and air equipment or HVAC companies are created equal.
1. Over-the-Phone Estimates
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is to rely on over-the-phone estimates from HVAC contractors. These are often generalized and do not reflect the extent of work that will be required.
The only way to ensure that the quote you receive is accurate is to have the company come out and see the actual scope of work needed. This can be very time consuming for them, which can be expensive for you.
Also, be sure to check that the HVAC contractor has all the proper licenses and affiliations with reputable organizations. These can be a great indication of their experience, skills and professionalism.
2. Discounts or Specials
One of the mistakes you should avoid is choosing an HVAC company based on cost only. This can be a huge mistake because it could mean that you are not getting the best service and quality.
Another mistake you should avoid is choosing a company based on a price quote over the phone without actually visiting your home. This can be a major red flag because they have not seen the scope of the job yet.
The best way to get an accurate price for your home is to have a technician visit the property to survey it. This is important because it can help you get a realistic price estimate and ensure that you are not paying too much for the work.
3. No Visit
When choosing a company, it is always important to shop around. Doing so can help you weed out the good from the bad.
It also helps you to avoid paying too much for a system or buying the wrong equipment. For example, installing a unit that is too large will overwork and eventually die early, while purchasing the wrong size can result in energy bills that are too high.
Aside from shopping around, you should also get a few quotes before you sign a contract. This will give you a clear picture of what the market price is in your area.
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is not checking out a contractor’s reputation. Asking for references and reviews will be an easy way to do this. All reputable companies will be more than happy to provide you with this information.
4. No References
Most employers are hesitant to provide references, citing cost and liability. They do not want to put themselves in the position of being sued if a former employee was fired for cause and did not provide a positive reference.
A reference can help a hiring manager understand if a candidate is the right fit for their team and may provide insight into the decision-making process. In some cases, a reference can even confirm a gut feeling or answer a question.
However, there are times when a reference is not necessary. In these situations, it is important to be able to rely on personal references, such as friends and family.