What do you need ta heating repair contractor? Even though technical knowledge and experience is necessary, these aren't the only skills your would-be future HVAC technician should have. Before you choose a new professional to repair or maintain your heater, take a look at the top not-so-technical service-related factors.
Customer Service Skills
While technical know-how will help to maintain your heater, customer service skills can make every part of the repair or maintenance process easier. The contractor or technician should effectively communicate with their customers. This could include everything from a pre-visit check-in to let you know they're on the way to an explanation of the services they recommend.
Along with the technician's customer skills, the office or other company staff should also offer a top level of service. This can make scheduling appointments, handling billing issues, and other administrative tasks stress-free.
Overall Hours
Will you only need a heater repair Monday through Friday during daylight hours? Even though you can schedule pre-season and other routine maintenance services during the regular business day, furnace failure and other similar issues can happen at night or on the weekends. Look for a company that offers emergency heating repair services. A 24-7 heating contractor will keep your home warm any time of the day or night.
Some contractors may also offer extended non-emergency hours. If you have limited availability due to your job or other responsibilities, you need to make sure the company's schedule meets your needs. The company should provide you with a full list of weekday and weekend hours.
Ease of Scheduling
Now that you've found a potential future HVAC contractor with excellent customer service skills and hours that fit around your schedule, it's time to take the next step and make an appointment. But if this next part of the service process isn't easy, you may want to re-consider the contractor. If it's difficult to get ahold of a central scheduling representative or they won't return your calls, you'll never get the service your heater needs.
Instead of waiting until you're stuck with a broken heater and a cold home to learn more about the contractor's ability to easily schedule service, ask for references. Friends and family members can offer referrals or the company can provide you with recommendations from past or current customers.
Payment Process
Does the contractor offer a payment plan? What forms of payment does the company accept? Future customers who have a tight budget or a preferred method of payment need this information in advance.
