On occasion, you will end up needing routine maintenance, repairs, or replacement of your heating and air conditioning system. You'll definitely want to find the right HVAC company for the job. This isn't always an effortless task, especially if you don't already have "a guy."
At Helms Heating & Air Conditioning, we know you have many options in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. Here are a few guidelines to follow before making that call.
Beware of Sketchy Marketing Ruses
It is unfortunate, but true: not all HVAC companies have your best interests in mind. Some are downright deceptive. They will make you think you need expensive repairs when you don't. Here are a few schemes to avoid:
Scare Tactics - used to scare customers into buying unnecessary products or services, making you believe you and your family are at risk if you do not.
Official Looking Notices - Direct mail that looks like mandatory alerts from the federal or local government that contains little information about the company providing the service.
Misleading Rebate Information - False deadlines used to push a customer into buying something NOW.
Offering Free Inspections - An opportunity for a company to use a "free" consult to pressure you into paying for a much more expensive service.
Unrealistically Low Prices - Offering deals that seem too good to be true with no explanation like "free air conditioner" or "$5000 off a new system."
Responsive Service
Although education and experience is a major necessity for a heating and air conditioning company, responsiveness ranks at the top of the list. A business could have some of the best technicians in the business, but if they can't help you when you need it or respond to your phone calls in a timely manner - especially in the event of an emergency, beware.
At Helms Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer afterhours service for the emergency situations. If you have a heating or air conditioning breakdown, timeliness is imperative.
Qualified and Experienced Technicians
When a technician comes to your home, you want to be sure that they know what they're doing. Performing routine maintenance, making a repair, or installing new equipment could involve high voltage and toxic chemicals. The last thing you want is for someone without sufficient knowledge to cause more problems than they solve.
At Helms Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians receive certifications and factory training. We provide them with access to multiple resources for classroom education, technology updates, virtual reality training, and much more.
Most of our technicians are certified by the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization and those who are not, are working towards that goal. NATE is the largest nonprofit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) technicians.
Friendly and Professional Communications
As with any service industry, you want your interactions to be friendly and positive. Of course, if you're in need of emergency repairs, you want to speak to someone who understands, sympathizes and prioritizes your needs. You'll want a technician that is willing to explain the problem and discuss your options.
Friendly and professional communications go a long way toward helping you make the right choice for long-term comfort and satisfaction. Look for companies with a team that are pleased to help you.
Customer-Focused Sales Approach
A majority of consumers do not enjoy being sold on a product or service that they don't want or need. Your HVAC technician won't always be the bearer of good news, but it's important to know that your needs are heard and will be met by the best and most logical solution for your comfort and budget.
If you get a diagnosis that requires replacement, we would recommend call us for a free second opinion. We take pride in our ability to outline your options and help you make the best decision, without putting extra pressure on you to buy more.
Fair and Transparent Pricing
Heating and air conditioning equipment, products, and services are an investment in your home. Whether you are a professional with a great income, a retiree with limited funds, or a young couple just starting out, you deserve to know what you can expect to pay for what you need. Reliable companies are happy to provide a written estimate without pressuring you to make a decision in the moment. They will explain the differences and expectations of each option and make recommendations for the ones that will fit your budget.
Reviews & Accreditation from Trustworthy Sources
Anyone can create a company review online. When looking for an HVAC company, it is crucial to find one with a positive reputation in the eyes of other consumers. Whether due to human error, oversight, accident or equipment malfunction, you need to trust that the company you choose takes accountability for all mistakes or miscalculations.
Check with the Better Business Bureau. They vet their accredited businesses and hold them to a high standard of ethics and customer care.
Verify that the company has a license as required by the North Carolina State Board of Examiners for the work they are proposing. The board enforces the Laws and Rules for contractors and holds them responsible for contracts, quality standards, code enforcement, conduct, and warranty.
And, one of the most reliable resources for hiring an HVAC company - your friends and family. Ask around. Choose a company that has provided fair, affordable, and quality experiences.