An HVAC contractor is a professional that specializes in repairing, installing and maintaining Air Conditioning, Heating and Ventilation systems. They are also able to perform preventative maintenance to keep your system running efficiently.
A good HVAC contractor should be licensed and insured. In addition, they should have a clean record and transparent estimate-to-payment process. Check out furnace repair Coquitlam for more information.
Professionalism
If you’re looking for a HVAC contractor, it’s important to hire one who is professional and licensed. A licensed contractor will follow strict guidelines in order to complete the job. This will ensure that the work is done correctly and that any damages or injuries are covered by insurance coverage.
HVAC professionals have specialized training to service and repair climate control systems like air conditioners, vents, and ductwork. They can also handle heating systems such as furnaces and boilers that use natural gas, oil, solar energy, wood, and electricity.
HVAC contractors also consult with home and business owners on energy efficiency, and can provide advice on reducing utility bills by properly sealing drafty windows and doors, adding insulation to air ducts, and installing whole-home dehumidifiers and electronic air cleaners. They can also recommend smart thermostats that will help to save on utility bills.
Experience
An experienced HVAC contractor will have a solid understanding of local laws and regulations on home improvement projects. They will also have experience working with different systems and brands. This will help them ensure that the job is done correctly and efficiently.
The best way to judge the level of experience is to look at customer reviews on multiple platforms and websites, as well as their Better Business Bureau rating. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check whether they are licensed at the local level and have insurance coverage for their work.
To stand out from the competition, make sure that your professional experience section highlights your impact and proficiency with specific numbers and metrics. Include the number of projects you’ve completed, the number of repairs performed, and any other relevant statistics that show your competence in HVAC. Additionally, highlight any industry certifications you’ve earned to increase your employability. Also, indicate your willingness to keep up with new technology and safety protocols.
License
The licensing requirements for HVAC professionals vary by state. Many states require HVAC contractors to obtain a license before performing work on home improvement projects or installing heating and cooling systems. Others may require the contractors to have a certain number of years of experience working in the trade.
Some states and municipalities also require additional certifications or insurance coverage. For example, New York City requires a license for Refrigeration Operating Engineers. Other professional certifications, such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers), aren’t required but can help distinguish HVAC technicians from the competition and make them more marketable to potential employers or clients.
In addition to licensing, an HVAC contractor should have a valid business license and workers’ compensation insurance. They should also be familiar with local codes and permits for HVAC systems. Finally, they should regularly read top HVAC blogs and podcasts like ServiceTitan to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends.
Insurance
Most states require HVAC businesses to carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance, but there are many other types of business insurance policies that can protect a contractor from catastrophic losses. Evaluate a policy’s exclusions and limitations carefully to ensure that it aligns with the risks of your specific contracting business. Consider additional endorsements and riders to customize the policy to your needs, such as pollution liability or protection for your tools and equipment.
Some insurance agents specialize in helping small business owners find affordable, comprehensive commercial insurance. These agents can explain state insurance requirements, evaluate your risk tolerance, and help you select the right coverage. They may also offer a fully-pre-filled supplemental application that can expedite the insurance process. Other options include a digital insurance broker, such as Pathpoint, which offers quotes from multiple carriers and allows you to sign binding paperwork in real-time. In addition to a general liability policy, HVAC contractors may need commercial property insurance for their business assets, as well as inland marine insurance for materials awaiting installation and hired and non-owned auto insurance for vehicles used for service calls.