Hiring a commercial HVAC contractor in Clarksville may not as easy as it sounds. You need to take time to research different companies and find one that is solid, professional, and reputable. The time you spend finding a good contractor will make all the difference in the quality of work they do.
Here are a few things you need to think about when selecting an HVAC contractor for your commercial property.
Commercial HVAC Contractor: In-Person Estimate
An HVAC company needs to make an on-site inspection, before they can give you a proper estimate. If the company tries to give you an estimate over the phone, without visiting the building, find another contractor.
Let’s take installing a new HVAC system as an example. It involves a lot of variables, each of which can influence the final cost. What’s the size of the building? Is there adequate insulation? Is the space wide open or is it divided into several areas with walls in between?
The contractor needs to consider these questions and at least a dozen more before giving an estimate. An on-site inspection is a must. (continue below)
Why Choose DOC Heating & Cooling?
Don’t Accept a One-for-One Replacement
Some HVAC contractors will propose swapping out your old system with a new one just like it. That’s not a good idea.
Today’s HVAC systems are more advanced than those from 15 to 20 years ago. Why install a system based on 20-year-old technology when you can get an up-to-date system that’s more efficient?
Plus, your property may have changed drastically in the past 15 to 20 years. Its floor plan may have changed or the building may have been expanded. The contractor needs to make recommendations based on the current configuration and size.
Experience Isn’t Everything
Some HVAC contractors like to brag about their decades of experience in the industry. While experience does count, it’s not everything.
Heating, cooling, and air quality technology has changed a lot in the past few decades. And it continues to evolve today. A quality HVAC contractor keeps up with the latest technologies to give their customers the best service and equipment options possible.
Talk with each contractor about available technologies. If they seem to be stuck in the past, find another company to do the work.
Make Sure The Contractor Has a Valid License
In the state of Tennessee, HVAC companies must have a contractor’s license if they work on projects over $25,000. Since many commercial projects are well above this number, you should never work with a contractor that doesn’t have the proper state license.
Getting a license and maintaining it shows a commitment to quality and professionalism. It means the company knows the latest building codes and continues to keep up to date as things change. It also insures that their customers have an avenue to make complaints and air grievances when problems arise.
Never Do Work with a Verbal Contract
The state of Tennessee does accept verbal contracts as valid agreements. However, always insist on getting any commercial work done with a written agreement.
A written contract offers clear terms and are easy to enforce. A verbal agreement comes down to how truthful both parties are when standing in front of a judge. Is it a gamble you are willing to take just so you don’t need to sign a contract?
Check Every HVAC Contractor’s Online Reviews
Today, consumers like to share their experiences with different types of businesses, including Clarksville HVAC companies. Take a few minutes to review each contractor’s online reviews and see what others are saying.
Read the positive reviews and see what people praise the company for. Then, read the negative ones to see what kinds of problems have surfaced. Companies that have been in business for years may have a few negative reviews. See what these reviews are talking about. It may have been a simple lack of communication, or it might be a major quality issue.
A Low Bid Isn’t Always Your Best Option
Installing a new HVAC system can be an important and expensive decision. That’s why it is so tempting to go with the lowest estimate. But, that isn’t always the best option.
Bargain contractors often cut key corners to save money. They often use low-quality equipment. They don’t use proper installation methods. Their employees may not be properly trained or licensed.
A low-cost bid can end up costing you more in repairs and early replacements. Look for quality and value instead of the lowest price.
Hiring a commercial HVAC contractor is an important decision. This company is going to be working on a major system that’s important for the comfort of your employees and your customers. They will have access to your building.
When you need an HVAC professional to work on your commercial property, contact the team here at DOC Heating & Cooling. We proudly serve our neighbors in Clarksville and surrounding communities. Give us a call today!
Call an Experienced Professional if Your System is Malfunctioning
Do you have an extremely old system? Are you seeing or hearing things that weren’t there before? If you suspect that the system is not working properly, you should call a professional as soon as possible.
A few signs that the system is in trouble include abnormal noises or smells, an extremely cold home, expensive bills, and frequent shutoffs. Regardless of the concern, an experienced professional can solve the problem and perform the necessary repairs before an emergency occurs.
Prevention and maintenance costs are much more reasonable than having a costly repair later. Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by, the professionals at DOC Heating and Cooling are ready to help. The highly-trained technicians are available 24/7 for emergency calls and for regular maintenance to help keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by we are ready to help. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
