Finding a good HVAC contractor can seem like an intimidating task, whether you’re a new homeowner or a resident of the Tampa Bay area for many years. But it’s important to find the best HVAC company in Clearwater to help you beat the heat and humidity this summer.
Below we’ve outlined a few important questions to ask an HVAC company when you call about an AC tune-up, repair or total system replacement.
Whether you’re in a pinch or preparing for the future, be sure to add this post to your “Favorites” list in your browser, or contact Air Care today to get started.
#1: Are you licensed to work on HVAC systems?
Licensed AC technicians are approved by the state of Florida to properly service, repair and install new HVAC systems. Requirements to uphold a license include continuing education, training and experience with evolving AC technologies and service techniques.
It can be tempting to call your handyman and cut corners when it comes to maintaining, repairing or replacing your HVAC system. But there are several reasons why it’s important to only hire a licensed contractor, like those at Air Care, to keep your system up and running.
First, hiring an unlicensed contractor can lead to poor HVAC repair service or safety hazards, which is something you could ultimately be reliable for if your AC system malfunctions.
In Florida, it’s also against the law to engage in contracting work without a valid state license. Under Section 489.127, Florida Statutes, the offense of “Contracting Without a License” covers the home improvement industry, including AC repairs and installation.
Air Care carries the proper licensing for HVAC repair and electrical services and follows environmental regulations in the state of Florida:
- State License #: CACO45902
- State Electrical License #: ET11000868
Contact us to learn more or get your HVAC system serviced today.
#2: Do you pull a permit?
The Florida Statute Chapter 489 requires all licensed HVAC contractors to obtain a building permit in order to install, remove or replace any AC system, as regulated by the Florida Building Code. Unlicensed contractors cannot pull permits through your local Pinellas, Hillsborough or Pasco county office; only licensed contractors can.
Permits are not just a piece of paper or formality—these are legal requirements held by local governments. Without a permit, you cannot guarantee that a contractor is properly performing AC work to fix your system and cool your home.
A good way to look at it is this: if a contractor doesn’t follow the law or good business practices in being licensed or insured, what else are they being dishonest about?
Contact an HVAC company you can trust—at Air Care, we pull permits on all new installations.
#3: Are you properly insured?
Reliable and trustworthy HVAC companies carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance, which provides protection for their company, technicians and you as the homeowner.
Worker’s compensation insurances covers the cost of medical bills if an AC technician is injured on the job. Liability insurance protects against any damages to your home during a service, repair or new AC installation appointment.
Insurance is not an area to cut corners. That’s because if something happens to the AC technician or your home during their visit—and the contractor isn’t properly insured—you may be held responsible for the bill.
Contact Air Care, your licensed and insured AC company in Clearwater, Florida.
#4: Do you offer a warranty for your work?
You should always choose an HVAC company or contractor that stands behind the quality of their performance and work.
For example, a one-year labor warranty shows that the company take pride in the services they’ve performed on your HVAC system. A 30-day warranty is a warning sign they do not.
If you’re having a new AC system installed, it’s also important to ask about the length the system warranty. As a Rheem Pro Partner, Air Care recommends a Rheem HVAC system for all new system installs—and Rheem offers some of the best warranties in the business. Learn more about what’s covered and how we honor Rheem warranties, and contact us today to learn about new AC installations.
#5: How long have you been in business?
When you hire an HVAC company, it’s important to work with a team that has some of the best experience in the heating and cooling industry—and much of that story is told through their years in business and the reputation they’ve earned from their customers.
A business that’s operated for more than a decade usually offers quality service you can count on. It also means they’ll be around long enough to deliver on your AC warranty if an HVAC part or system needs repair or replacement.
Don’t be afraid to ask how long an HVAC company has been in business and how much experience their AC technicians have. (If you’re searching for an “AC company near me” online, look for the company’s “About Us” page, which usually includes this information.)
You may even consider asking how long they’ve been operating under the same name—a business name change usually indicates that company’s stability or reputation was on the line.
About Air Care, a Long-Trusted AC Company in Clearwater
If you’re looking for an HVAC company that will cut corners to save you time or money, then look elsewhere. Our team at Air Care operates with integrity and prides ourselves on quality AC work for the long haul.
Founded in 1988, Air Care has been a family owned and operated business for more than 30 years serving Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Our certified technicians are trained by founder and owner Larry Harkins, member of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society, and a Florida licensed AC and electrician professional.
Over the years, our team has also maintained a trustworthy reputation from our residential and commercial customers, and we are proud to service, repair and install all HVAC systems and brands.
“I have used Air Care’s AC repair service for years, and in that time, there has never been a problem using them. They are able to keep an air conditioner with an average life span of 10 or 15 years going well beyond that at still pretty awesome levels. Their service has been great for years.” — Christie K.
Read more of our reviews, and contact us today.
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APPENDIX:
[1] Angie’s list: What are risks hiring unlicensed contractors?
[2] Hussein and Webber Florida Law: Contracting without a license
[3] Florida Statutes: 0489.127
[4] Florida Statute Chapter 489
