Waking up to a broken furnace is miserable.  And having to call numerous heating and cooling companies can add to your stress.  That’s because most ‘no heat’ calls (broken furnace calls) occur in the dead of winter when many homeowners are experiencing the same issues.  So how do you hire the right furnace repair company to handle your specific needs?  It helps to do some research ahead of time.  If you know your furnace is starting to age, have a reputable HVAC company’s phone number on hand.  You can be prepared by asking your contractor these questions.

Are you licensed, bonded and insured?

This is an important question to ask to ensure the company you hire is honest, trustworthy and has financial backup.

How long have you been in business?

If you want your furnace repaired properly, it’s best to hire a professional.  Look for companies that have been in business for at least 10 years.

Have you worked in my neighborhood before? 

If the contractor has done work there, it’s likely they understand the situation they are walking into.  They probably have a sense of how old the homes are and what issues they might face.

How quickly can you respond in an emergency?

The answer you get might depend on a number of factors.  If there’s a major blizzard, or you’re experiencing the ninth day of sub 15 degree temperatures, then you will likely need to be patient.

Remember that there a lot of fly-by-night contractors out there who are looking to make a quick buck.  It’s also a good idea to look for industry affiliations from organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America.  You want to keep your house and your family safe.  Be sure to ask good questions before hiring a heating and cooling contractor to come into your home.

Give us a call at 216.663.6462 if you have any questions about hiring the right HVAC contractor.