Five Important Factors for Choosing a Great Air Conditioning Technician

As we head into the winter months, now is the best time to have air conditioner repair services completed. This might sound counter-intuitive, since during the cold months you don’t need your air conditioning. However, during the dog days of summer, many air conditioning contractors are so backed up with work that you’re stuck in the miserable heat for days before your AC repairs can be taken care of. In contrast, during the winter months, most air conditioning repair companies have such little work that they’ll offer great discounts for their air conditioner repair services.

Whether you just need general maintenance, a big repair, or a total installation, you should consider these five factors before selecting an air conditioner repair service:

1. Certification
   The licensing standards required of an HVAC technician varies with each state, but you’ll pick up the baseline of certification and licensing requirements after you talk to a few local AC professionals. It’s a big plus if they are certified with the National Air Duct Cleaning Association. The high standards set by the National Air Duct Cleaning Association will ensure your air conditioning is getting very good care.
2. Applicable Experience
   Using an air conditioning technician who has been in the industry for a while is beneficial as they’ll have a wider range of troubleshooting knowledge. However, there are vast differences between difference makes and models of air conditioners; you want to make sure the company you’re considering has experience with your particular unit. It’s a good idea to ask before the tech even comes for the consultation. You could be charged a flat rate for their visit, and still have to bring in another technician who understands your brand of AC to do the repair.
3. Customer Reviews

Getting reviews from other customers who use the air conditioning repair service is a great way to avoid the wrong company. Just keep in mind that some customers are impossible to please, and even the best AC repair company may have one or two bad reviews. If you see consistent complaints about similar issues though, then it’s a safe bet that you should keep looking.

4. Estimates
   For routine maintenance, the tech can usually give you the flat rate over the phone. If you AC repairs are extensive, it’s a great idea to get estimates from several companies so that you know you’re paying a competitive rate. Make sure the estimates include a comprehensive list of what costs are involved, so you can make sure the price comparisons are apple-to-apples and there aren’t hidden fees.
5. Customer Care
   You can gauge the level of customer service you would get if you hired the company from your interaction while scheduling the service and during the initial consultation the technician who will be completing your repairs. You want to make sure that the company is attentive to your concerns, quick to return any calls you make, and available to answer any questions you have.

   Most of all, if you feel pressured into more services than you’re asking for, you should move along. Some Air Conditioning companies require their technicians up-sell to the customers, and make increasing your bill more important than your satisfaction.