Heating: What to Look for in a Contractor

Heating. It's something that few homeowners would want to live without when the winter winds begin kicking up. Whether you have a full central system or just a small space heater in the middle of the room, being able to cuddle up in the midst of cozy warmth when it is bitterly cold outside is a luxury too many people take for granted. Of course, one way to appreciate it once again is to find yourself with a broken system on one of the coldest nights of the year. If this happens, you'll need a contractor and you'll need one in a hurry. Don't use this as an excuse to pick the first one you see in the yellow pages, however. You could wind up making a big mistake. Here are some things to look for in a good contractor.

Speed and Reliability

Finding a heating contractor that can provide you with speedy and reliable service makes up for almost any other downsides you might encounter. That's why you should put a premium on these traits. Ask around. Find out what people have to say about the contractors in your area. Did they take a week to come out to the house? Did they show up for an appointment? Are they one of those companies that promise only to show up between the hours of 8 and 5 on Wednesday? You have to take this kind of weak service from the electric company, but you don't have to put up with it from a contractor. Not when there are many other choices out there.

Background Checks

Look for a heating contractor that prides itself on doing background checks and putting their employees through drug screening. It's easy to become complacent when it comes to letting servicemen into the home. And while it may be true that the overwhelming majority of such workers are entirely trustworthy and are only concerned with doing a good day's work, that doesn't mean there aren't bad apples out there. If you are going to invite people into your home, at least make sure the company in charge has done some screening.

Flat Rates

It is becoming increasingly common for heating contractors to provide their customers with flat rate pricing, rather than charging by the hour. If you can find this deal, you might want to take advantage of it. Might you wind up paying a bit more in some instances? Perhaps, but at least you'll know what you're getting into. Paying a flat rate for service means there won't be any nasty surprises when the bill comes. Determining what constitutes an "hour" of work has been the subject of many a debate between homeowners and contractors. If you can avoid this problem altogether, do so.