Find the right HVAC Contractor in Scottsdale, AZ
When you live in the desert or any climate that clings wholeheartedly to summer, then you know there are several essentials always nearby: shorts, tank tops, hats, flip-flops, and an endless supply of sunscreen. But there’s something else that should be just a phone touch away as the mercury rises: a good HVAC contractor in Scottsdale, Arizona who handles heating, ventilation, and air conditioning repairs and enhancements. Most of us don’t appreciate air conditioning until our ac system is not working and we’re melting miserably.
As with any professional service, a good first place to start is recommendations from family and friends.
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America, a non-profit association serving more than 60,000 professionals and 4,000 businesses in the HVAC community, has additional suggestions.
As you vet potential HVAC contractors in Scottsdale, AZ, the professional group recommends you make sure the candidate:
- Complies with state and local codes and regulations.
- Carries business and workers’ compensation insurance.
- Provides you with references. If he or she doesn’t, then ask. But don’t make the mistake of leaving it at that. Follow up and call the references.
- Is certified. One of the certification you’ll be looking for is NATE (North American Technician Excellence). This is a sign of being up to date and knowledgeable of modern air systems. Another good sign is being a member of ACCA.
- Can design and install the right system for you, in addition to servicing your existing equipment.
- Can determine if your house is susceptible to any indoor air problems.
- Knows how to recover, recycle, reclaim and dispose of used refrigerant. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) used as air conditioning are linked to destroying the earth’s ozone layer.
- Teach you how to maintain your system. A good contractor will show you simple things you should be doing, like how to change your filter and use the thermostat. He will also make you aware of “red flag” items that might signal a problem.
- Will make recommendations about ENERGY STAR-qualified cooling equipment. ENERGY STAR is a federal government program that aims to save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices.
The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy also mentions 3 things you should AVOID when choosing an HVAC Contractor in Scottsdale, Arizona:
- Any contractor who gives you a quote on the phone without seeing the job in person.
- A contractor who uses the size of your current equipment to size a new cooling system. Many air conditioners were improperly sized in the past and aren’t as energy efficient as new equipment.
- A company that doesn’t provide a written bid detailing equipment to be installed, work to be done, and the price (including labor).
Some final words of advice: Get estimates from several contractors and don’t let price be your guide. Good contractors may charge more than their mediocre or sub-par counterparts. Be especially leery of lowball bids. Look for professionalism. Are they prompt and courteous? Do they have an office or facility that you can visit? Do they understand your needs?
Once you find a HVAC contractor in Scottsdale, Arizona that fits the criteria, you’ll be on your way to an uninterrupted, cool summer. To speak with an HVAC professional at Scottsdale Air Heating & Cooling, call (480) 945-7200.
