Q&A: Locating a Good Dealer
Q: How do I find a good dealer?
A: References. Ask friends, neighbors, people involved in church or community groups who they use. Check out the phone book. If the company is serious and established, they’ll advertise.
Next, review the number of years in service and check whether the company is a member of a local organization or service bureau. This helps create their establishment, and whether they’ll follow up if there are customer service problems or issues with the work down the road.
Q: Does the dealer carry a repuptable top line brand like Carrier or Bryant?
A: A Dealer who offers quality units like Carrier or Bryant systems must meet certain qualifactions with the manufacturer or distributor in order to service and install these units. Quality brands need to make sure the dealers who are working with their products have high standards for their work and service.
Q: Does the dealer have certified technitions? How do I know?
A: Ask to see the technicians’s credentials. Certified technicians should carry a card which is proof that they have taken and passed the necessary tests. Some have patches on their shirts.
Q: I usually base my decision on price, is this strategy OK?
A: Actually, no. Price should not be your only indicator.
Q: Does the dealer have a license?
A: You need to ask your dealer if a license is required from the city or state, and how the license was earned. Did the dealer and technician have to pass a comprehensive test, or just pay a fee to receive a piece of paper?
Q: Does the technician or the dealer have liability insurance to cover damage in my home?
A: Ask the dealer. A technician or their employer should carry adequate insurance that would cover any damage or accidents while they are servicing your heating and cooling unit.