Finding a skilled air conditioning technician is important because cooling and heating appliances require regular maintenance including periodic checkups. However, many homeowners face difficulties identifying the right technician. The key considerations when looking for an air conditioner technician include:
Training And Certification
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The right technician should have completed an industry-specific training program. This is in addition to acquiring the relevant certification from reputable bodies/organizations. At this point, it is worth noting that certifications vary from state to state. You need to be well versed in the regulations/standards where you live. Nevertheless, some certifications are applicable nationally. For instance, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, requires technicians who maintain, repair, or dispose refrigerant-containing equipment to take an EPA-approved certification exam. Besides this, North American Technician Excellence, or NATE certified technicians, are highly recommended. Most training programs span anywhere from six months to two years. Finally, look for a technician who has complied with your state’s insurance coverage requirements.
Continuous Education
Look for a technician who has invested in continuous education. Technicians who shun continuous education are likely to face challenges keeping abreast of industry developments such as the IoT (Internet-of-Things) The IoT has enabled homeowners to control their air conditioners over the Internet. Moreover, continuous education programs typically cover the most recent regulations applicable to the HVAC industry. In other words, an HVAC technician who undertakes continuous education is likely to be up to date with the industry’s needs and requirements.
Experience
It is wise to hire a technician with several years of experience. Some states require air conditioner technicians to meet specific minimum requirements before acquiring the appropriate licenses. Besides this, full-time technicians are more experienced than part-time contractors. Evaluate this facet carefully. Your decision needs to be based on actual experience rather than the number of years one has worked.
Expertise
For starters, expertise is quite different from experience. In this case, expertise refers to technical capability/skill and it varies from technician to technician. The easiest way of finding an expert in air conditioning is by asking friends, co-workers, and relatives for recommendations. You could also use web-based platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website to find an expert in air conditioning. The only downside is experts tend to charge more than their peers. However, you pay for what you get. Paying for mediocre HVAC service means that you might end up paying twice for the same job in the end.
Reputation
You should hire a technician with a good reputation. Some of the important traits to consider here include excellent communication skills, attention to details, professionalism, and honesty. In fact, this is the right approach if you intend to maintain a long-term relationship with a technician. One way of determining the reputation of a contractor is by looking up/contacting references. Once again, websites such as the BBB can help you find a reputable technician.
Air Conditioner Repair Cranbury NJ
When hiring an air conditioner technician, consider factors including reputation, experience, training and certification, expertise, and continuous education. Contrary to popular belief, the financial aspect of this exercise should not be the biggest consideration.
Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning has been in the HVAC industry since the 1960s. Our NATE certified technicians have the experience to provide excellent heating and cooling services to homeowners and commercial properties. We also offer heating oil delivery and much more. Be sure to give us a call to discuss your home comfort needs with one of our specialists.
We service Cranbury NJ 08512, Dayton NJ 08810, Helmetta NJ 08828, Hightstown NJ 08520, Monmouth Junction NJ 08852, Monroe Township NJ 08831, Plainsboro NJ 08536, Princeton Junction NJ 08550, Windsor NJ 08561, and surrounding areas!
Contact us now at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!