When your central air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace needs servicing or replacing, it’s crucial to find a quality HVACR (heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration) contractor who is knowledgeable, skilled, and qualified. Here are some key attributes to look for in a quality contractor:

Attributes of a Quality Contractor

• Compliance and Insurance: Adheres to state and local codes and regulations and carries the proper business and workers' compensation insurance.
• Professionalism: Is prompt, courteous, and provides fast, reliable service while attempting to perform service at your convenience.
• Expertise: Has the skill and knowledge to not only service your equipment but, if necessary, to design and install the right system for you.
• Up-to-Date Knowledge: Keeps up with the latest developments in equipment, technology, and design procedures to choose and install the most efficient and reliable system for you.

System Design and Installation

A heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system should be tailored to your needs. A quality contractor:

• Customized Solutions: Selects each part of the system individually to ensure top efficiency and comfort.
• System Matching: Ensures that all system components, such as the furnace, condensing unit, fans and blowers, air conditioning coil, and duct work, are matched to work together effectively.
• Comfort and Efficiency: Listens to your problems and cares about your comfort, ensuring that no rooms are too drafty or dry in winter or too hot or damp in summer.

Indoor Air Quality and Environmental Concerns

A quality contractor:

• Air Quality: Can help determine if your home or building has indoor air pollution problems and recommend solutions.
• Environmental Protection: Is trained and certified in proper techniques for recovering, recycling, reclaiming, and disposing of used refrigerant to protect the environment.

Customer Education and Follow-Up

A quality contractor:

• Daily Care Instructions: Shows you how to care for your system, such as changing the filter and operating the thermostat.
• Problem Indicators: Advises you about symptoms that could indicate equipment problems.
• Preventative Maintenance: Offers planned preventative maintenance services to maximize the life of your equipment and honors the warranty terms.
• Post-Service Follow-Up: Follows up to ensure you are satisfied with the service and your new system.

Evaluating an HVACR Contractor

When consulting an HVACR contractor, consider the following steps:

• References: Ask for references and find out if other customers were satisfied.
• Licensing: Ask about the contractor's license and request the license number if required in your area.
• Industry Association Membership: Check if the contractor is a member of a recognized industry association such as SWACCA or the Florida Refrigeration Air Conditioning Contractors Association (FRACCA).

These organizations provide their members with access to the latest technical information and promote quality as an integral part of company operations. Selecting a quality contractor ensures you receive the best service, expertise, and solutions for your HVACR needs.