Imagine your HVAC unit breaking down in the middle of summer in St. Johns, FL. During July, the high averages at 89°F. Your family shouldn’t have to sweat through summer break because the HVAC unit isn’t working.
Before that happens, find a reliable HVAC contractor in St. Johns. They’ll ensure your unit is running at peak efficiency.
Not sure how to choose a licensed HVAC contractor? Read on for the five tips you need for an effective search.
1. Gather Customer References
Streamline your search for the best HVAC companies by speaking with friends, neighbors, and family members. Ask if they can recommend an HVAC contractor. Build a list of companies they’ve hired in the past year.
Ask each friend about their experience working with the contractor. Consider asking:
- Did they arrive on time?
- Were they experienced?
- Were they knowledgeable?
- What services did you request?
- Did you have any problems with them?
- Would you hire them again?
- How much did their services cost?
Highlight companies on your list that offer great customer service. Avoid companies that aren’t professional or responsive.
Learn more about each contractor by reading online reviews. Check Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, and Yelp. Look for companies with five-star ratings or an A+ rating on BBB.
Do any complaints repeat between clients? You’re likely to encounter the same problem if you hire that contractor. Remove them from your list.
Instead, choose a company with a glowing reputation. They’ll work hard to meet your needs and expectations to maintain that reputation. You can feel confident choosing a contractor other St. Johns homeowners know and trust.
2. Find a Licensed HVAC Contractor
Review each contractor’s credentials before they work on your HVAC unit. Confirm that they’re licensed and insured.
A licensed HVAC contractor is less likely to make mistakes. Learn about their training and industry experience. Professionals must be licensed air conditioning contractors to perform heating or air conditioning work in Florida.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations issues these licenses. There are four types available in Florida:
- Class A State Certified Contractor
- Class B State Certified Contractor
- Class A State Registered Contractor
- Class B State Registered Contractor
To receive a license, contractors must complete a training program. They’ll need to have certified experience in the HVAC industry. They must also pass a trade knowledge exam.
Prioritize finding a long-established HVAC business and experienced contractor. There are over 140,000 heating and air conditioning businesses in the US. The industry grew by 4.5% within a year.
Newer teams lack hands-on experience. They’re more likely to make a mistake when working on your unit.
An experienced business has developed efficient processes over time. They’ll know which mistakes to avoid. These teams often keep up with modern HVAC trends and technologies.
Ask each company how long they’ve operated in St. Johns, FL. Determine who will arrive to work on your unit. Ask about their credentials and industry experience.
Determine if the company has general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Insurance will protect your best interests if a contractor is hurt or damages your property. They won’t hold you liable if there’s an accident.
3. Explore Their Services
Before choosing an HVAC contractor, review each company’s service offerings. Try to find a full-service company. If you need help with additional services later, you’ll know you can call the same company.
Their services may include:
- AC repair
- HVAC emergency services
- AC installation and replacement
- Routine maintenance
- AC tune-ups
- AC inspections
- Ductless mini split
- Ductless HVAC services
- Central HVAC services
- Heat pump installation
- Heat pump maintenance and repair
- Electric furnace services
- Heat pump replacement
- Air purifier installation
- Air filter changeout services
- Whole house air quality services
- Air scrubbing services
Make sure the company’s services align with your needs and concerns. For example, perhaps you’ve had your unit break down multiple times. Look for a company that offers preventative maintenance services.
Routine maintenance could extend the lifespan of your HVAC unit to up to 15 years. A technician can assess the unit and spot potential issues. They can replace components that have sustained wear and tear.
Otherwise, the unit will work twice as hard to operate. Its energy efficiency will drop. The unit could fail, leading you to need AC replacement services.
Ask each company how they can help improve your unit’s energy efficiency. They can help extend the lifespan of your unit and reduce costs. If they struggle to answer your questions, keep searching.
4. Request HVAC Service Estimates
Request HVAC service estimates from three local companies. Ask how each company calculates its estimates. Confirm they’ve included both labor and parts.
Compare estimates between these companies to recognize the average in the area. If one company charges more than others, question why.
Don’t rush to choose the cheapest option available. Instead, determine if the company is offering any special offers or discounts. Look for a company that will work with you.
HVAC services don’t have to break the bank. Some companies offer financing options. They’ll ensure you live in comfort without overpaying for services.
Ask each company for a written copy of their estimate. Having a written copy will help minimize miscommunication later.
5. Review the HVAC Service Contract
Request a copy of each company’s HVAC service contract. Review their terms before signing the agreement.
Determine if the company offers a guarantee. They should stand behind their work. Ask if there are any exclusions.
A company that offers a guarantee cares about its customers. They’ll ensure you receive reliable, high-quality services.
Call Your HVAC Contractor in St. Johns, FL
Don’t hire the cheapest HVAC contractor in St. Johns, FL. Instead, do your due diligence. Use these five tips to find a contractor you can trust with your unit.
Our team at Weather Engineers, Inc. has offered residential HVAC services since 1963. Our qualified, experienced technicians can help with all your HVAC needs. We’ll ensure your family remains cool and comfortable all summer long.
As a local, family-owned business, we strive to always put our customers first. Contact us today to meet your HVAC contractor!
