Choosing the Right Contractor

Most often we take for granted the complex systems which provide heating and cooling in our homes – until something goes wrong and requires service or replacement.

When this happens you need an experienced , skilled contractor who is qualified for the job. When it comes to heating and cooling systems many customers will select a contractor before selecting the brands or products they prefer.

It is important that your contractor:

• Has the skill and knowledge to not only service and repair your equipment, but if necessary, to design and install a new system for you.
• Complies with local building codes and regulations and carries the appropriate business and workers’ compensation insurance.
• Is prompt and courteous – providing fast, reliable service.
• Is up to date on the latest developments in equipment, technology and design procedures – in order to select and install a system which will be the most efficient and most reliable system for you.

A heating, ventilating and air conditioning system is custom designed to suit your needs. It is crucial in the design and set-up of these systems that the various components not only compliment each other, but are suitable the size and layout of your home.

A reliable and qualified contractor:

…listens to your problems and cares about your comfort while attempting to find out if any rooms are too drafty or dry during the winter, or too hot or damp in the summer.

…can help determine if your home or building is prone to indoor air pollution problems.

… is concerned about protecting the environment. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC’s) used as air conditioning and heat pump refrigerant, have been linked to the destruction of the earth’s ozone layer. A quality contractor won’t release the refrigerant into the atmosphere and is trained and certified in the proper techniques for recovering, recycling, reclaiming and disposing of used refrigerant.

… will show you how to care for your system on a day to day basis. For example, how to change filters and how to operate the thermostat. He or she will advise you about symptoms which could signal that there might be a problem with the equipment. After servicing your equipment, he or she will let you know when it should be serviced again.

…offers planned preventative maintenance service, to maximize the life of your equipment.

…does not offer price as the only consideration. While it is a major factor, there often are valid reasons for price differences.

When Consulting a Air Conditioning & Heating Contractor:

• Ask the contractor for references. Find out if other customers were satisfied.
• Ask the contractor about his or her license. Ask for the license number.
• Ask if the contractor’s technicians are HRAI certification. HRAI-certified technicians have proven their knowledge of modern HVACR systems.
• Ask the contractor if he or she is a member of The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
• Institute of Canada (HRAI). HRAI members have access to the latest technical information regarding HRAI systems. Through HRAI, contractors learn how to make quality an integral part of their company operations.