Hiring a reliable contractor is the first step toward efficient home HVAC performance. However, it’s not always easy finding someone trustworthy. Here are 10 tips to give you peace of mind when choosing a contractor. 1. Do your homework. Make sure the business complies with state licenses and insurance requirements. Also, understand your current equipment. What model is it? Do you know the maintenance history? What comfort problems are you experiencing? 2. Talk to friends. Talking to friends and co-workers about reputable contractors may give you a few good leads. 3. Research associations and certifications. Is the business involved with any third-party organizations? Does it have a history of community involvement? 4. Look for customer service offers. Quality contractors often have maintenance plans that help them keep their customers happy, and also offer discounts and priority service. 5. Look for NATE certification. Technicians who are NATE-certified guarantee workmanship up to national standards. With NATE-certified technicians, you don’t have to rely on rumors to know you’re getting quality service. 6. Ask about home evaluation. A quality contractor should assess your needs, including how your current equipment functions, before performing any work. New equipment should be properly sized to perform efficiently and affordably. 7. Get it in writing. Get itemized proposals of prices and schedules. Try to clear up as much as possible so you aren’t surprised by the amount of work that needs to be done, the new equipment you may need, and the prices of parts and labor. 8. Compare bids. The lowest bid may not be the best deal. Consider the quality of workmanship and parts. If you need new equipment, compare the initial cost as well as potential operating costs. Ask if the business offers high-efficiency or Energy Star-certified equipment. 9. Sign a contract. Before work begins, get both of your names on a document that will protect each of you. 10. Spread the word. When your friends and co-workers ask you for recommendations, tell them about Pipe Works Services! For trustworthy, experienced technicians, call Pipe Works Services. We’re proud to put New Jersey homeowners first! Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide. Pipe Works Services serves Chatham, NJ, and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website.