Your HVAC may need a good looking over before things heat up

If winter has left you frosty and frigid, you may have a steamy future ahead as temperatures rise. Now is the time to hire a local service pro to take a look at your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system — otherwise known as HVAC.

While searching, however, you’re likely to find pages and pages of service and repair company results. Determining which one is best prepared to ready your system can seem like a daunting task. Thankfully, there are a number of key indicators which will help when searching for a home service pro to look over your HVAC.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Work done before a contractor rings the doorbell will ensure you get the best quality service at a reasonable price. Search for home service pros who are properly certified. Reputable HVAC companies hire employees who have North American Technician Excellence certification. NATE is the nation’s not-for-profit certifying organization for HVAC and refrigeration techs. Technicians have to earn re-certification every two years, meaning they remain up-to-date on industry developments and new standards. Make sure any contractor is also properly insured, with both business and liability policies. This protects you and the service pro in case there’s a mishap with the equipment or in your home.

ASK AROUND

Once you’ve confirmed that the paperwork is in place, look into their references. Check trusted websites including Yelp, NextDoor and Google for online testimonials or complaints, and ask the contracting company directly to speak with other customers. Be particularly wary if an HVAC company refuses to provide these references, since that could be a sign that they have burned some bridges. Check in with the Better Business Bureau, and ask friends, family and neighbors for their recommendations, too. Once you’ve gathered this wealth of guidance and advice, you’ll be able to make a hiring decision with the peace of mind that comes from doing your homework.

REQUEST DETAILED ESTIMATES

Once you’ve narrowed down the possibilities, ask for detailed estimates from several contractors. They should spend a good amount of time looking over your system in order to evaluate your needs. Replacement systems will be tailored to the size of your home, insulation details, number of floors and windows. Repairs will involve duct system and unit inspections. Get itemized written estimates for comparison, while noting warranty options.