How to Choose an HVAC Contractor in Tampa

Your HVAC system plays an important role in your property value, delivering an increase of up to 10%. Your long-term comfort and running costs are equally important. Choose poorly, and you’ll pay the price through overloaded utility bills and chilly winters. This is a major investment that needs to be taken seriously, so your choice of contractor is critical to your brand choices.

Regulatory Knowledge

Your HVAC system needs to comply with a long list of codes and standards on both a federal and local level. This delicate technology must meet uniform mechanical and energy codes alike. If your state enforces minimum energy savings, your system must meet them, as well.

Health Knowledge

Your system does more than just heat and cool. It purifies your air, removes humidity, and controls allergens. If someone in your family has a respiratory condition or allergy, your contractor should know which brands and models will improve their quality of life. Your filtration choice isn’t the only component to consider. Your system must also resist mold and reduce the risk of mildew growth. This is complex terrain, so patience is important. Your contractor should be willing to sit down with you and discuss your health needs in detail. A contractor who’s pushing for the highest commission and the lowest input will do little to improve your living conditions.

Licensing

The United States has a comprehensive collection of federal and state licensing requirements. Make sure your contractor is licensed and has the correct apprenticeship certificates for your region. In some states, HVAC companies are also required to hold licenses and minimum experience levels covering:

• Heating, cooling, and process piping
• Mechanical temperature controls
• Residential HVAC installations
• Plumbing and hydronic heating
• Air conditioning and refrigeration

Some states also require contractors to hold a license to perform contract work in the area.

Better Business Bureau and Review Ratings

Honesty and integrity are important for any contracting company, but it’s difficult to assess such abstract traits before you’ve even met your HVAC company. This is where the Better Business Bureau steps in. The BBB is a dispute resolution enterprise that records service failures and rates brands according to their resolution process. It’s a veritable treasure trove of information about contracting ethics, trustworthiness, and service excellence. Look for a BBB rating of F to A-plus. The latter tells you your HVAC contractor has worked hard to earn its reputation.

Insurance

Major installations come with heavy risks, even if you have the finest contractor at your side. Never work with an independent company that lacks general liability insurance. This coverage ensures that your contractor is held to its legal obligations and liabilities. Workers’ compensation is just as important. It covers the medical treatment and disability income of workers, and it affects you more than you might think. In the event of a work-related disability, it covers expenses that you might otherwise be liable for. Builders’ risk and contractors pollution insurance will cover niche environmental laws and losses.

Individualized Service

Every family and property is different, so a one-size-fits-all approach to your HVAC choices won’t do. Choose a contractor who takes the time to discuss your priorities, including your budget and long-term expense tolerance. Your contractor should also keep up with their industry so that you’re assured of the finest technology on the market.

Maintenance

An excellent contractor serves you at every point of your HVAC journey, from your initial installation to your routine maintenance and repairs. Preventative maintenance will keep your system efficient until it reaches the end of its service life.

All American Home Services is an HVAC company that takes your needs seriously. We’re committed to providing our customers with the best in HVAC and customer service, so you know you’re getting the best when you choose us. Give us a call at 813-486-4038 to learn more about our services.