When assessing any problems regarding heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) you want to confirm you’re getting the best possible work done on your unit. It’s never a simple task. While some unlicensed contractors may offer lower prices, signing up with their services is a gamble. You never know what kind of turmoil you could be getting yourself into. If a contractor tells you their work is done, but just a few days later something breaks, it’s possible you could never hear from them again.
The Distinguishing Factors
The main differences that set apart professionals and unlicensed contractors include industry experience, professional licenses, insurance, access to sufficient materials, an ethical experience, and help in a crisis.
Industry Experience
As the adage goes – you get what you pay for. Some independent contractors claim they can solve any HVAC issue. While they may be able to assess a minor tweak here or there, they may not understand the issue at hand. This could result in only a partial fix of your unit and cause more complications as time goes on. At Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing, our team has been around since 1989. We have seen a variety of HVAC issues in the field and know how to address each one of them. Not to mention, each technician on our roster has HVAC certifications that guarantee you’re receiving top-notch service. One outlet that can be used to research a professionals industry history is the Better Business Bureau. Here you can read reviews, examine ratings, and learn about a company’s history.
Professional Licenses
Just like most careers in the home services industry, HVAC requires a variety of certifications and licenses. Here are three licenses that you should look for when working with an HVAC professional:
Master’s License – This is obtained through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Applicants for this license must attend a certain number of class hours before passing an in-person exam at a local testing center. This license gives the customer peace of mind that they’re working with an industry expert who actually knows the job.
Business License – This certifies the professional you’re working with. Not only does it give you certain rights as a customer, it also allows you to know they’re following regulations. Business licenses are granted through the state government and should be shown to the customer upon request.
Contractor’s License – Much like the master’s license, the contractor’s license is acquired through the Virginia DPOR. This license is important for any person wanting to work in the trade industry. It certifies their knowledge of working with clients on a day-to-day basis. Customers should also be able to see a contractor’s license before progressing with a service.
Insurance
Insurance is what sets apart a distinguished business from a fraudulent start-up. It’s important for HVAC businesses to hold different types of insurance that not only protects themselves, but also their clients. These types of insurances include commercial auto, professional liability, and HVAC inland marine coverage. Commercial auto helps to keep work vehicles covered on an everyday basis. Meanwhile, professional liability and HVAC inland marine cover tools, equipment and overall service. At Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing, our team holds all these policies and more. Not only do we want our employees to be protected, but we also want our customers to be safe.
Access to Sufficient Materials
While some contractors might be able to resolve a few issues with spare parts they have lying around, there’s only one way to verify that your unit is getting repaired correctly. The use of proper tools and materials. Each one of our vans is fully equipped with the proper instruments and supplies needed to make the right adjustments to your system.
An Ethical Experience
Unfortunately, the world is full of people trying to make a profit off of problems that aren’t actual problems. This is a major risk you run when hiring independent contractors to do any type of HVAC work on your home. Unlike our team of trained professionals, an immoral contractor could fib the truth in order to upcharge you on an item that would otherwise be inexpensive. One method used to report a business’s ethical nature is to visit the Virginia State Corporate Commission website. This will allow you, the consumer, to contact the clerk’s office with any information regarding illegal activity.
Emergency Help
Life has a way of inconveniencing us with issues sometimes. Luckily, our team of trained professionals at Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing is here to help. Some contractors will put you at the end of their list even though your issue should be labeled as a top priority. With our emergency services guarantee, we promise to be available seven days a week, so you never have to worry about going weeks or even months before receiving service.
Can I Fix An HVAC Issue Myself?
With do-it-yourself videos all over the internet, it’s normal to think you can accomplish anything on your own. But the truth of HVAC is that it’s far too complicated to try and solve by yourself. Unlike other tasks around the house, HVAC requires a lot of knowledge that can often only be found among certified professionals. Not to mention the dangers associated with attempting to fix certain issues with you’re A/C unit. This is why it’s crucial to reach out to our team and let us take the ropes. At Blazer Heating, Air, and Plumbing, we’ll make sure an HVAC professional assesses your problem and comes up with a solution that best fits your situation. We also offer financing options for all customers. To learn more, contact us today!