Air conditioner not working? Get accredited company for work

Many people don’t think about their air conditioning until it’s stopped working. At that point, it’s too late. Thankfully, there are more than 130 Miami Valley BBB-accredited heating and air conditioning companies to help you. Summer is a busy time for these contractors, which makes it the perfect time to appreciate the work they do. In fact, July 3 through Aug. 15 are Air Conditioning Appreciation Days.

There are three ways HVAC technicians earn our appreciation: 1) They ensure our comfort, 2) They keep our homes energy efficient, and 3) Safety is their priority. Far and away the best way to show appreciation to a HVAC contractor is by patronizing and recommending them. To properly appreciate your HVAC contractor, you must first find the right one. Here are some tips to assist with hiring an HVAC contractor.

■ Do your homework. Before picking up the phone, recall the model of your current system, look up its maintenance history and see if your system is covered by an existing warranty.

■ Ask friends and family for recommendations.

■ Compare costs of at least three different contractors and decide which fits your budget. Remember, don’t always assume the lowest bid is the best. It may be less efficient and result in higher energy costs.

■ Get everything in writing, including the contractor’s information, system model numbers, exact costs, estimated start and completion date, and guarantees/warranties.

■ Do not pay up-front in cash. Pay with check or credit card.

■ Make sure the company you settle on is licensed, insured and bonded as appropriate.

■ Ask if the companies have 24-hour emergency service or charge overtime after a certain time.

■ Determine if the company offers a maintenance program.

■ Ask if the company belongs to any professional organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors Association of America or Air Conditioning Contractors of Ohio. Also, check to see if the company employs NATE-certified technicians.

■ Be on the lookout for HVAC scammers. Common scams involve door-to-door solicitations, only accepting cash or offering a discount if the work can be done immediately.

If you have questions regarding HVAC contractors, would like a list of BBB-accredited ones, want profiles on ones you’re considering or would like to report a scam, visit bbb. org or call 937-222-5825 or 800776-5301.