How to Select the Best Heating and Furnace Repair Services

After a home is constructed, most building components remain in place continuously. Few things change in a home unless damaged or intentionally altered by a major update. There are two exceptions—both the roof and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will need to be replaced regularly.

This HVAC system will also need to be serviced annually, repaired occasionally, and replaced every 15 to 20 years. For this reason, you should build a relationship with a heating/air conditioning professional or company. A simple search reveals an entire list of companies vying for your business, so how can you sort through all the information? Here is a short list to help you determine who should provide these services.

Trust

Creating a professional relationship with a service provider is an important decision with potentially long-term benefits (or stress). Some basic qualities should be required:

• The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has an approved certification program that may include coursework + practical experience or specified years of practical experience.
• Bonding/Insurance. These measures protect homeowners and employees against the risk of damage.
• Years in Business. There is nothing wrong with choosing a startup company, but veterans usually proudly highlight their business experience.
• Experience needs to be accompanied by a good reputation. Satisfied clients will not hesitate to speak well of the results of a company’s service.

Training

If this job was easy, anyone could do it. Installing, maintaining, repairing, and replacing HVAC equipment requires specialized training. This training results in certifications and qualifications.

• Most technicians spend some time in vocational training classrooms, but there are several training path options available. Some include minimal classroom training and maximize on-the-job training, while others prepare technicians in the classroom and release them after a required apprenticeship.
• On-the-job training. All technicians spend time training with senior technicians and learning from one another. This happens long after mandatory training is completed. Technicians can define their training path to potential clients, with certifications to demonstrate completed training.
• Certain manufacturers provide specialized training on their equipment. This is true for Trane dealerships; technicians are trained to install, maintain, and repair the various equipment sold by Trane.

Tailored Service

While an initial call may have been placed for a specific problem, it is best to find a full-service company that provides the widest array of services possible. It is also preferable to know what to expect from a service call.

• Assigned clients or random techs? Can you expect the same technician to service your system each year or will the assignment go to the next available technician? Either can be acceptable, but it is good to know.
• Does the company complete all the needed services—new construction installs, replacement, maintenance, and repairs?
• Do technicians handle all available systems—traditional, mini-split, and heat pump? Natural gas, electric, and heat pump furnaces? Are technicians familiar with the latest technologies and refrigerants? Are they familiar enough with enhanced features, such as variable speed compressors and blower motors, to be able to help clients with decision-making?
• Does the company have a 24-hour emergency hotline? How soon is the average response time?
• Does the company offer upfront pricing, with explanations BEFORE work is completed in the instances of change orders?

Looking to Hire a Trusted Heating and Furnace Repair Company?

Houston Trane can connect you with a Trane Licensed Furnace Repair Contractor who can answer your questions about HVAC system repair and maintenance. To find a local Trane Furnace Repair Contractor, visit our Local Dealer search tool.