Has your furnace started making strange sounds? Maybe it’s not keeping your home as warm as it did last winter. Don’t make the mistake of fixing your furnace alone.

You could void the warranty. Instead, call an experienced St. Johns furnace repair company.

There are over 140,000 HVAC businesses in the US, though. The industry has grown by 4.5% since last year. Don’t choose an inexperienced business. 

Instead, read on to discover the nine questions you should ask to find the best residential furnace technicians in town!

1. How Long Have You Offered Services?

Remember, the HVAC repair industry has grown. These newer businesses often lack relevant experience, expertise, credentials, and tools. Many are still learning how to operate efficiently. 

Determine how long each company has offered furnace repair services in St. Johns. Ask how often they fix residential furnaces. Consider when they last encountered furnace problems like yours and how long they took to fix.

Question each company about their training and credentials. Find a qualified team before they begin working on your furnace. Otherwise, they may void the warranty.

An experienced technician will quickly diagnose the problem. They’ll determine the most effective solution based on your needs. 

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Confirm that the company has the proper paperwork in order. Ask for proof of their business license and HVAC credentials. Credentials can vary by stage.

In Florida, technicians must have an HVAC license from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Confirm that the technician passed local exams and licensing requirements before offering services. Ask if they completed any additional educational courses.

Before they begin working, confirm that the company has an active contractor’s liability insurance policy. Their policy will protect you if there are any damages done to your home or property. Worker’s compensation will protect you if a technician is hurt on the job. 

3. What Does Your Quote Include?

Request quotes from three local companies. Ask what’s included. Otherwise, you may be shocked when the final bill is higher than the estimate.

Most quotes cover parts and labor. Ask if your system qualifies for any manufacturer, government, or utility rebates.

Ask the company if they offer any financing packages. These companies will allow you to make reasonable payments over time. You won’t have to pay everything upfront.

Look for a company that offers a customer satisfaction warranty. These companies care about their customers and stand by their work. Determine what types of guarantees they offer and cover under the warranty. 

4. Can You Provide References?

Ask each company for three local references. When speaking with their past clients, ask:

• What furnace problems were you experiencing?
• How did the technician help?
• Were they professional?
• Did you encounter problems with the company?
• Would you hire them again?

Talking to the company’s past clients will help you find a company you can trust. Check for online client reviews on Yelp, BBB, or Google Business. Look for a five-star business with a glowing reputation.

Check for comments about each company’s friendliness, promptness, and professionalism. A company with a strong reputation will want to maintain it by offering top-notch services. 

5. What Manufacturers Do You Use?

Some companies prefer to work with specific manufacturers. Make sure the company has experience working with your specific furnace. If not, they may lack relevant expertise or the parts needed to make your repairs.

For example, perhaps you have an energy-efficient HVAC system from Trane’s line. Make sure the technician specializes in working on Trane products. 

6. What Changes Can I Make?

Ask your technician if they can help you improve your energy efficiency and decrease your utility bills. They may recommend switching to a programmable thermostat. If you have an old furnace that’s struggling to work, they can install a new furnace.

Your technician can help you improve your indoor air quality. They may recommend using a high-quality air filter or whole-home humidifier. Improving your indoor air quality can clear the air and help you avoid bothersome allergies.

7. What Other Services Do You Offer?

You may need help with your residential furnace or AC in the future. Ask each company about the other services they offer. These can include:

• AC repair
• AC replacement
• Heating repair
• Furnace repair
• Duct cleaning
• Energy efficiency
• Air quality
• Preventative maintenance

Choose a full-service company. When you need help in the future, you’ll know who to call. 

8. Do You Offer Preventative Maintenance?

Preventative maintenance can extend the lifespan of your unit to over 15 years. You won’t have to worry about your furnace breaking down in the middle of a harsh winter. Instead, your St. Johns technician can audit it for signs of issues.

They’ll ensure your unit is running properly. If they spot small issues, they can make simple repairs before more wear and tear occurs.

Without preventative maintenance, components will begin to wear down. The unit will work twice as hard to function. Your energy bills may start to rise.

Eventually, the entire unit will break down. You may need a new furnace; a much higher expense than routine furnace repair services. 

Requesting preventative maintenance will give you peace of mind. You’ll know that your unit is running as intended. Your technician will help you make informed decisions to keep it running for as long as possible. 

9. Why Should I Choose Your Team?

Ask each company what sets them apart from their furnace repair teams in St. Johns. Give each company a chance to showcase their strengths and unique selling points.

Look for a company that can meet your needs. Their services will keep your home comfortable year-round.

Find the Best Furnace Repair in St. Johns

Don’t make the mistake of choosing the first furnace repair company you call. Instead, use these tips to find the best technicians in St. Johns. You’ll have peace of mind knowing an experienced, qualified team is on the job. 

Need immediate help fixing your furnace? Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air has provided friendly, professional services to Northeast Florida since 1998. We’re an authorized dealer for all the leading air conditioning brands. 

While you may feel let down by your furnace, you won’t be let down by our team. We’re on call 24/7 to respond to any emergency. Contact us today for help with your residential furnace.