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14 Answers You Should Get Before Hiring an AC Repair Company
With spring on its way out of the door in Texas, your air conditioning unit will soon be running full blast. Since there’s no winter in Texas, the unit will take on some extra strain that can challenge its ability to run smoothly. As a result, you may want to have your AC unit inspected by a certified technician.
Before you hire the first company that you come across, remember that not all AC repair companies are made equal. Oftentimes, you’ll run into a professional who’s more interested in charging you high prices than delivering quality work. Other times, you’ll find a great price but discover that the work is less than satisfactory.
If you want an excellent AC repair company, develop a screening process first. Whether you’re having AC installed, replaced, or repaired, asking the right questions will get you the best service. Here are some queries to put on your list.
- What size system will I need?
Most people don’t realize that AC systems are not one-size-fits-all. A good contractor won’t try to sell you the largest, most expensive unit they have, but explain to you that it depends on the total volume of the living space, amount of shade around your home, how well the insulation is sealed, and a few other factors regarding your home and its energy efficiency.Typically, for every 600-900 square feet, you’ll need a 1.5-ton air conditioning unit, but your repairperson can give you a more accurate estimate based on the needs and state of your home. - Are there new technologies that I should consider?
Technology is advancing in every industry, and the world of HVAC is no different. Smart thermostats and more energy efficient units will likely be freshly available when it’s time to replace or repair your AC, so it’s good to be informed about the newest products. - How energy efficient is the new system?
This question will get you prepared for the costs of your new system following installation. Sometimes, it’s a better investment to purchase the more expensive, more efficient model than it is to get the cheapest option that’ll raise your utility bill each month. - What brands do you offer?
Just like not every AC contractor is created equally, not all brands are made alike. Ask which brands a company installs and why they like those brands. Then, do some research to determine which unit will function best in your situation before hiring the service person. Here at John Moore we service ALL makes and models! - Do you have insurance?
Anytime that you have a contractor performing work on or around your home, it’s vital that they have insurance. This insurance should cover general liability and worker’s compensation, at the very least. Ask for details about what their insurance covers so you know that you won’t be liable if a worker gets hurt on your property or if he or she causes damages. Reject any contractor with inadequate coverage. - What’s the address of your physical office?
After they’ve confirmed the address, check it out to make sure it’s a legitimate business. You’d be surprised how many contractors try to work out of their homes or how many scammers there are trying to hustle you out your money. If they have a legitimate, physical office, it’s more likely that they’re properly licensed, insured, and certified with enough experience to do a good job. - Are you licensed and certified?
Check for proper licenses and certifications before hiring. First and foremost, check that they’re licensed in your state. Ensuring that they’re certified by the EPA to handle Freon™ refrigerant gas is also important, as is being North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certified. Licenses and certifications such as these indicate a level of excellence that lets you know that you’re in good hands.
ALL John Moore Technicians have the proper licences and certifications to work on your home Air conditioning system.Also, ask if they’re a member of a national trade association like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America or Business Services Institute. This indicates that they’re continually receiving support and training in their industry, so they’re up-to-date on the latest techniques. - How long have you been in business?
The longer, the better. It shows that they not only have experience, but they also have loyal customers who continue to return for their services, which indicates that they can be trusted to handle your AC repair job. John Moore Services, for example, has been in business since 1965, and our customers continue to return for more. - Can you provide a few references whom I can contact?
Good contractors will have a few names of previous customers on hand that you can contact to review the quality of service that the company provided. Also, look for reviews online and on social media to evaluate others’ experiences. - What is your satisfaction guarantee policy?
Find out if there will be a refund or other compensation if the service doesn’t meet your satisfaction. At the very least, the company should promise to fix the issue if there’s a problem with installation. - Can you use my current ductwork?
When a contractor says you need to replace your entire HVAC system, it’s okay to probe a little. Ask questions about the quality of your ductwork and the ventilation. If you don’t understand the logic and evidence behind their claims, get a second opinion. Replacing the entire system is a major, expensive job, so it’s important to know why it’s happening first. - Will you handle all of the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities?
Oftentimes, there are special permits that accompany installing a new AC unit or HVAC system. This isn’t something that you want to deal with yourself, so make sure that your contractor will handle all of the legalities of the situation. - How will you expect payment?
When performing a big job, know if they need to be paid in full up front or if you can be put on a payment schedule. These repairs and installations often don’t come cheaply, so be prepared for the bill, according to the contractor’s policies. - How long will it take?
Make sure the timetable fits into your plans and schedule before starting a job like this. In addition, ensure that the company is including time for cleanup after the work is finished so you don’t end up with a gaping hole in your wall and plaster-dust all over your furniture.
John Moore Services Will Answer These Questions and More
When you’re looking for a contractor who can pass your screening with flying colors, John Moore Services fits the bill. We’ve been in business for more than 50 years, and we specialize in delivering a high quality services every time. For more information about what we do, contact us today!
