Tips On Finding The Right Heating Contractor (NAPSA)—Anytime of year can be the right time to inspect, upgrade or install a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Selecting the right contractor to perform any of these tasks can be as critical to the system’s successful operation as the equipmentitself. Here are a few suggestions from the experts at York Heating and Cooling on how to select an HVACcontractor: * Do your homework. Start by gathering information from books, magazines and online resources about HVAC systems and what their care and maintenance involves. * Use your network. Get recommendations from friends, coworkers, real estate agents and home improvement specialists. * Look for professional connections. Check to see if your contractor is a memberof a professional organization such as ACCAor if the contractor’s technicians are certified by NATE (North American Technician Excellence). * Is he or she covered? Ask to see a contractor’s state and local licenses, liability insurance forms and worker’s compensation documents. Be sure documents cover any technicians or subcontractors working for him or her. * Experience counts. Take the number of years a contractor has been in business into consideration when making your decision. A reputation for quality, reliability and dependability doesn’t happen by accident or overnight * What about house calls? A good contractor will visit your A good contractor will want to learn what you expect from an HVAC system, as well as any concerns you mayhave. home to make an on-site inspection before making any equipment recommendations. A load calculation should be part of that visit. * Communication is essential. A good contractor will want to learn what you expect from an HVAC system, as well as any con- cerns you may have. * What’s on the menu? Research the selection of services a contractor offers. Is scheduled maintenance included? What about repairs? Is the contractor available around the clock? * Word of mouth counts. Ask for references and check thosereferences. While references often have the greatest impact on a homeowner who is looking for a contractor, they should be considered along with other information gained through yoursearch. To learn more about selecting a quality HVAC contractor, visit the Web site at www.yorkupg.com or call 1-800-910-YORK.
