When you own an air conditioner, it’s best to know a reputable company for repairs. Having a close relationship with one (especially through routine preventative maintenance) means an AC repair is just a phone call away. But not everyone keeps up with maintenance. Regardless, sudden issues can occur with any hard-working AC system. If you don’t have a phone number ready to call, you can find a reputable contractor for air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA, by asking the following questions:
Is the Contractor Properly Licensed and Certified?
The technician must be licensed to work in the state legally. Gaining licensure means the contractor has demonstrated their knowledge, expertise, and adherence to safety standards. You can expect to benefit from these no matter the size and scope of the repair issue. Skills certifications are also important. Look for those such as the EPA 608 certificate, ACCA HVAC Quality Installation certificate, and the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification.
Does the Company Have Insurance?
Ask for proof of insurance so you won’t be liable if injuries or damage occur during an AC repair. A contractor should have general liability insurance and worker’s compensation. Anyone you hire for air conditioning repair or installation, air duct cleaning, or heater service should be insured.
How Well Are Staff Members Trained?
Continuous training ensures that HVAC technicians are familiar with the latest systems. You’ll want to call a NATE-certified technician and one factory-certified to repair your specific brand of air conditioner. Continued education also ensures technicians know common safety issues and the latest equipment trends.
Are They Recommended By Others?
Don’t call a company for air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA, if nobody recommended them. A satisfied customer’s words are sound because a contractor that provided good service is likely to do so again. Speak to a friend, family member, or colleague about who they’d recommend or search online databases for certified, licensed, and insured HVAC contractors.
Are Their Quotes Accurate and Honest?
An AC repair contractor should provide an upfront quote. Research the costs of fixing common problems based on the brand, make, and model to understand their estimate. Also, compare quotes to repairs completed in the past. Obtaining three or four quotes will make it even easier to know who to call based on affordability and the type/quality of service.
Will a Technician Perform an In-Home Assessment?
The initial assessment should not cost anything. A complete inspection helps a contractor understand the exact nature of the problem. In addition to a visual look for damage or wear, they should perform a load calculation and home energy evaluation. This helps the technician complete other repairs or make efficiency improvements as needed.
Does the Company Offer Opportunities to Save?
Affordability is a concern for most people, and AC repair can be expensive. Ask about coupons and other special offers that can save on the full price of a repair or tune-up. Is the company willing to negotiate or approve a financing plan to work with your budget? These considerations will help you choose an AC repair company that will provide the services you need regardless of your finances.
Do You Understand the Contract?
An AC repair company should provide a detailed contract and explain all the fine details. Don’t sign the contract unless they help you understand its terms. The contract should be in writing and include a fixed price, an itemized list of services and charges, a proposed schedule, and a follow-up maintenance plan. It should also have a clear payment schedule, list accepted forms of payment, and require a deposit of no more than 10%. Proof of a building permit must be included as well.
Call IRBIS for Air Conditioning Repair in San Jose, CA
Known for our attention to detail and use of high-end equipment, IRBIS has skilled technicians who can perform any type of AC repair. We are a Carrier factory-authorized dealer but can service any make or model. During a service call, we’ll do a whole house inspection and find a custom solution to the problem. We handle planning and permitting and provide a detailed report of all work completed. Request air conditioning repair in San Jose, CA, by booking service online or calling 669-266-5464 today.