Industry Tips
Heating Service Contractors
Once you decide that work needs to be done on your present heating system or you need a new system, be certain to hire a contractor with a good reputation for dependable, reasonably priced work. Ask friends, neighbors and colleagues for recommendations, and check out any company being considered with the Better Business Bureau.
Get at least two estimates for the work. All bids should be in writing and should provide a full description of the services to be provided and the materials to be used. If the system is to be replaced, the estimate should include a full description of additional work required for the installation of ducts, registers, and electrical wiring, and repair of adjacent surfaces. Compare more that just cost. Check the size and rated efficiency of the equipment each contractor recommends. Ask each contractor how they arrived at recommending a particular sized system.
Check the warranty offered; what does it cover, for how long and who will honor it? Always keep a copy for your records.
The contractor you choose should provide at least one call back free of charge after installation to check the system. See that this is written into the agreement. Find out if a service contract is available providing you with an annual furnace inspection and maintenance. Check your owner's manual for details on routine maintenance you can perform.
Read the contract thoroughly and understand it before signing. Be sure to keep a copy. Some companies have a policy of charging a trip fee, to offset gasoline prices, in addition to the charges for the actual service. The BBB suggests that you inquire about trip fees prior to contracting with a company.
Another point to keep in mind is that while most furnace companies are reputable, competent and fair; others may tell you that your furnace needs to be repaired or replaced when in reality it does not. Some may use high pressure tactics, such as telling you that your system is leaking dangerous gases that could explode or poison those inside the house. Homeowners may be persuaded into buying a new home furnace or authorizing expensive, but unneeded, repairs to their existing heating system without taking the time to shop around.
The most important first step is to not panic. Be sure to check the warranty on your system to see whether any repairs or replacements are covered. Remember that many heating systems come with long-term warranties. Before you authorize any work, get a second opinion from another reputable firm. Do not hesitate to contact your utility company and ask for a serviceman to come and inspect your system. Always ask for identification from any individual claiming to be an inspector or a representative of a utility company that comes to your home. If you think you may be in physical danger, leave your home until the system is fully checked out.
If you are told that your furnace needs to be replaced because it is too small, think back to the last time it failed to properly heat your house. When purchasing a furnace, you should choose a unit large enough to handle the demands of your household. Do not waste money on a furnace that is larger than you need.
