When looking for a trustworthy heating expert, let your Better Business Bureau help make your experience a positive one.
According to heating experts, your furnace should be inspected annually. Having a certified technician look at your furnace will help make sure it runs more efficiently and could save you money in the long run by finding minor problems before they become serious ones. A typical inspection includes cleaning the blower and filter system, including belts and pulleys, as well as replacement of the oil filter and examining the regulators and other controls.
Over the last year, heating contractors ranked as the seventh most inquired about industry with more than 2.2 million inquiries nationally. In addition, more than 4,100 complaints were made to BBBs across North America about heating contractors. Locally, your BBB received more than 3,700 inquiries about this industry.
When searching for a heating expert, your BBB suggests you:
• Consider a company’s reputation and years of service.
• Shop around and get several quotes. Don’t settle for the lowest bid.
• Check with family and friends. If they’re happy with companies they used, most likely you’ll be too.
• Ask heating contractors for references and call them.
• Make sure you feel comfortable with the heating contractor.
• Visit home shows. This is a great opportunity for you to meet contractors face-to-face.
• Avoid high-pressure salespeople.
• Ask if the heating contractor belongs to any professional organizations like the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC). Look for this logo and the BBB logo on their Web sites.
• Make sure the company is licensed, bonded and insured and determine if it will pull required permits.
• Look for Energy Star products that can offer long-term savings on energy costs.
• Ask if they offer 24-hour emergency service.
• Get a written contract detailing the work to be completed. Don’t sign anything until all blanks are completed. And, make sure warranties and guarantees are included.
• Never pay in full up front. A legitimate, trustworthy company won’t do business that way.
• Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to inquire about something if you don’t understand.
Remember, if you have any questions regarding heating contractors, get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB Accredited heating contractors and reviews on ones you’re considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
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