Individuals must seek a professional’s assistance when installing an air conditioning system. Someone with experience and expertise will ensure the job is done safely and properly. They will offer the high-quality service necessary for the appliance to work well for a long time. On the other hand, the wrong contractor might do a shoddy job, causing the air conditioner to malfunction. Homeowners can use several tips when looking for a reputable air conditioning installer.
Get references
One can start by getting referrals from friends and family. If someone in the family has worked with a good contractor before, they will be able to share their reference and talk about their experience working with the contractor. Getting referrals from local trade organizations can also be useful. Further, one can check online forums and groups related to home improvement. Some groups may recommend good local contractors and even share tips on air conditioning installation.
Learn about the air conditioning unit
Before hiring someone for installation, one must learn more about the air conditioning system, such as its serial number, model number, and brand. One can also take photos of the system and its tag, which has all the identification information. In the case of older systems, one can note how often it has been serviced. Sharing all these details with the contractor helps them provide more accurate quotes and install the appliance correctly.
Check certifications and licenses
A good way to tell whether an air conditioning contractor is reliable is to check their licenses and certifications. A certification implies the HVAC technician has undergone training and their work meets industry standards. Similarly, a license signifies the company offering the service is legitimate. It also indicates the installer follows local regulations, laws, and safety standards. In addition to the certification and license, the installer must have insurance. An insurance policy protects the homeowner against any risks associated with the installation process, such as damage to the property.
Ask for a written quote
It is generally recommended to hire a contractor for air conditioning installation only after getting a written quote. One should avoid relying on verbal quotes since these can change. With a written quote, it becomes easier to determine the exact installation price. This is because such quotes usually have a breakdown of the cost, such as installation, equipment, labor, and taxes. Besides, a written quote provides transparency by ensuring everyone knows what work the contractor will be assigned and how much they will get paid. If there are disputes later, the document can work as proof.
With a written quote in hand, hiring someone within the budget also becomes easier. That said, one should be wary of contractors who charge very low prices. This can often mean their quality of work is poor, which can lead to more expenses later on. One should also ensure the contractor visits the place and checks where the unit has to be installed before giving a written quote. They must also look at the air conditioning system as it helps estimate the costs for installation better.
Read reviews and testimonials
Before hiring an installer, one should check whether they have any reviews online. Reading the feedback and testimonials from other customers and clients can prevent disappointment. If someone has had a bad experience with a service, they will likely leave a review on the business’s website, social media page, or a third-party online consumer forum. Similarly, someone who has had a good experience will write positive testimonials about the service. If there are no reviews of the contractor, it can be considered a red flag for their poor service. It can also be a sign that they are new in business and are yet to build a reputation.
Check the customer care service
The contractor’s job doesn’t end after installing the air conditioner; they must also provide good after-sales service. The company should be available for repair and maintenance jobs related to the installation that may arise later. They should also have trained technicians who can answer all queries immediately and proficiently. Further, they should specify the hours of the day they are generally available and how they can be communicated, such as by phone or email. One must hire a service provider who is always available to troubleshoot any issue associated with the installation. The customer service should be dependable and responsive.
Get a written contract
One must get a written agreement before hiring a contractor to install an air conditioner. The contract must include the responsibilities and expectations of the customer as well as that of the business. It must also specify the overall cost of the project. One should read through the fine print before signing the agreement.