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1. Check credentials. Before
making your selection, call the Better Business Bureau
to make sure the dealer is reputable. Also, find out
if the dealer is a member of a local or national
association such as the Air Conditioning Contractors
Association of America.
2. Make sure the dealer is
affiliated with a nationally known manufacturer.
Dealers should be taking advantage of factory training
offered by their manufacturer. As a result, when they
make recommendations, you can be more assured that
they've selected the right size system for your home,
and that they've been trained in installation and
service.
3. Ask for references.
Former customers are an excellent source of
information. Also, ask to see installation photos. A
dealer that is proud of his work will be more than
happy to show it to you.
4. Expect an on-site evaluation
of your home. A good dealer will take a thorough
look at your home, ask questions and evaluate your
overall comfort needs before making a recommendation.
Beware of a dealer that simply takes information over
the phone. A good dealer will also look the part.
While he's evaluating your home, you should be
evaluating him. Not only should he dress
professionally, but his truck and printed materials
should look professional as well.
5. Check local licenses.
Depending on where you live, dealers may have to
comply with certain local or state regulations, so ask
to see proof of these licenses, as well as insurance
forms for liability and workmen's compensation. |
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6. Don't be afraid to ask
questions. Ask for details about the firm's
experience and the expertise of its staff. This is
particularly important if you're also adding or
changing duct work - in this case, experience is
definitely a factor in getting the job done correctly.
7. Get a written proposal.
To make a fair comparison, make sure that proposals
you receive are all based in the same efficiency and
equipment. You'll also want to evaluate each dealer's
personal business standards and policies. For example,
will he remove old equipment? Will he relocate
equipment if you want your new system installed in a
different location? What are his clean up and care
policies during installation? How will he handle
emergency repairs? These are just a few of the
additional elements a good proposal will include.
8. Inquire about equipment and
labor warranties. Limited warranties vary
according to the manufacturer, so make sure you fully
understand what you are getting. Also, don't forget to
inquire about manufacturer's extended warranties at
the time of purchase and other warranties provided by
the dealer.
9. Ask about preventive
maintenance service contracts. Many dealers offer
service contracts that call for periodic maintenance
and if needed repairs. The fee for such contracts is
usually well worth it in terms of obtaining efficiency
and performance for your system.
10. Finally, insist on a written
contract. Commit your agreement to writing and
have the dealer sign it. |
