Trusting the repair of your air conditioner to an HVAC company you have never used before can be a bit stressful. Not only is your home comfort in jeopardy, but your money is at risk too if you choose someone under qualified to perform the repairs. Air conditioner repairs are often costly. So, do some research, call around town, and find someone that gives you the best answers to some of these very important questions. The better you communicate with your contractor, the more likely it is that you will have a great experience and get what you need from your HVAC technician. These are some of the questions you should ask your HVAC contractor before and during your air conditioning repair appointment:
- Is there anything I can check before I schedule an appointment?
Based on the type of problem you are having, the company may suggest a few different areas you should check before they come out. Check the air filter first. A clogged filter could be the source of your problem. Replace the filter if it is dirty and restart the system. You can also flip the breaker and change the batteries in the thermostat if the filter is clean.
- Is there a service charge, and is it applied to repairs?
Many companies will charge a service charge, but not many will apply that cost to the repairs if you do not ask this question!
- What forms of payment do you accept?
Make sure you have the form of payment they accept available. Some companies still only take cash, and unless you want to run to the ATM in the middle of the night, you need to ask this question!
- Do the technicians perform repairs right on the spot?
Some companies don’t carry parts on the truck, and unless you want to wait a few days without a functional air conditioner, you need to choose a company that has easy access to a wide variety of parts. Companies that have the parts on the truck can repair the unit right on the spot and deliver comfort within hours, not days!
- Do I need my warranty paperwork?
Even if the company you hire didn’t install the unit, you may still have coverage on the unit that the manufacturer can honor. Dig up your paperwork and have it ready for the technician. They should be able to help you understand your coverage.
- Can you explain why I need these repairs?
Once the technician diagnoses your system, ask if he or she can walk you through how the problem was discovered. The technician should be willing to show you the problem and walk you through the repair. If not, they are hiding something and you probably shouldn’t trust them with your comfort or your money.
- How long is the warranty on this repair?
Warranty coverage can vary depending on the type of repair. Ask the technician how long the repair is warrantied for both parts and labor and then get it in writing.
Get the Most of What You Want
Asking these questions will help you get the most of what you want from your repair work. Don’t settle for a company that doesn’t give you straight honest answers, and no matter what company you choose, hold them to their word!
