Is your HVAC unit in need of repair? If you’re looking for a company to fix it for you, it’s important to remember that, unfortunately, not all of them are reputable. These companies can do more harm than good, so you should hire the right one for the job. Dishonest companies will try to push unnecessary services like monthly maintenance plans that don’t cover anything or come up with mysterious charges once the job is done.
Sometimes they’re not even real businesses, and if they happen to be uninsured, any damages to your equipment won’t be covered. Learn about the six mistakes to avoid when hiring an HVAC company.
Not Get Everything in Writing
Image via Flickr by danielmoyle
It’s not uncommon for dishonest businesses to add unexpected charges to your bill, take longer than usual, or use more expensive components than previously agreed. Instead of entering into a verbal agreement, have a written contract with the company discussing the length of the project and any materials that will be used.
Not Checking If the Company Is Real
Even in this day and age, there are fraudulent companies that slip through fiscalization and work with no licenses. They pretend to be real businesses and perform services that they don’t have permission to do. Check your local organization to make sure the company is licensed.
Ignoring Customer Reviews
If a friend of yours had a horrible experience with a company, you’d think twice before hiring them, right? You should check all the reviews before contacting a business to repair your cooling and heating equipment. If there are too many bad reviews, it’s a sign you should avoid the company.
Buying an Unnecessary Monthly Maintenance Plan
You don’t need a monthly maintenance plan for your HVAC unit. Reputable companies will check your equipment once a year or when a serious issue takes place. They want to ensure your unit is working efficiently (therefore reducing your energy bill) and most of the time will offer a one-year warranty to guarantee you’re satisfied.
Hiring a Company With No Insurance
Imagine hiring a company for a regular check up, and they end up breaking your HVAC equipment? If the company is uninsured, you’re unlikely to receive any compensation unless you take them to court. If you’d like to avoid a massive headache, insist on checking whether they carry any insurance.
Not Comparing Rates With Other Companies
Unless you live in a small town, there are likely to be a few companies offering HVAC maintenance services. You should research other businesses and check their prices before hiring any services. You can save a lot of money by avoiding a company which would otherwise overcharge you.
At the end of the day, heating and cooling equipment is expensive and needs to be properly cared for. In the same way you wouldn’t lend your car to an inexperienced driver, it’s essential to leave your HVAC unit in professional hands. Just remember to check the companies thoroughly, so you don’t end up hiring a bogus business.
