Cutting HVAC System Costs (NAPSA)—Experts say a good way to put the freeze on high heating bills is to keep your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system well maintained. That could mean inspecting, servicing or even replacing existing systems. However, perhaps just as important as what HVAC work you have done is who you have do it. Working with the wrong contractor could mean extra maintenance visits, a less efficient system, or even a damaged HVAC unit. Experts at York Heating and Cooling recommend homeowners ask the following questions when shopping around for an HVACcontractor: * Do You Continually Train Your Workforce? HVAC systems are complicated and their technology is constantly changing. That’s why it’s important that contractors continually train their technicians and installers to work on all models. A contractor’s workforce should also be completely insured and trained to comply with all local and national codes. * Are You A Member Of A Trade Association? Professional organizations, such as ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), give members access to information on industry trends and changing technology, training programs and networking opportunities. * Are Your Technicians NATE Certified? NATE (North American Technician Excellence) is a nationally recognized technician standards testing organization that awards technicians certification based on their level of understanding technical procedures. NATEis to the HVAC industry as ACEis to the automotive industry. The right HVAC contractor can help homeowners cut energy costs. * Are You Available Around The Clock?—Reputable contractors usually have technical assistance available 24/7, every day of the year, to solve heating emergencies. Often, the technician can help a customer determine if a problem warrants a potentially expensive, off-hourservicecall. * Do You Guarantee Comfort?—Quality contractors generally take the time to talk with homeowners to determine their heating needs. The contractor can then design systems that are right for specific customers. * Are You Environmentally Conscious? Contractors should only use refrigerants that meet EPA requirements. Also, quality contractors usually only employ EPA-certified technicians. * Do You Have A Long-Term Maintenance Program?—Some contractors offer regular maintenance programsfor the life of their systems. To learn more about selecting a quality HVAC contractor, visit York’s Web site at www.yorkupg.com or call 1-800- 910-YORK.
