How to Choose the Right Heating Contractor to Repair Your Furnace

Choosing a furnace repair contractor can be difficult. With dozens of local companies, it can be hard to know who has the experience and quality you need. Luckily, we’re to help you through the process.

Take these steps to find a qualified heating contractor who will do a good job with your furnace repair.

Ask for Heating Contractor Referrals

One of the best ways to find a great heating contractor is to ask around for referrals. You most likely have a friend or neighbor who recently needed a furnace repair, and they may be able to give you a recommendation.

If you can’t get a referral, you can search for a local contractor online. A contractor’s online reviews and website may be enough to give you an idea of who to choose. It’s a good idea to call at least a few different contractors and ask about certifications and estimates before you decide.

Before making your final decision, ask for at least three references. Take the time to call up these references and ask if the contractor completed the job cleanly, on time, and on budget.

Check Your HVAC Contractor’s Certifications

HVAC contractors work with and around some of the most complex parts of your home, including electrical and gas lines. For this reason, many states and local governments in the United States require contractors to have professional licensing or certifications. Washington State does not have a specific HVAC license, but technicians are required to have an electrical license, among other qualifications.

Before hiring a contractor for your furnace, make sure their technicians have any licenses that are required in your area. Most heating contractors will use language like “certified” or “licensed” somewhere on their about page to denote these qualifications. If you do not see any language to indicate the contractor has all the required certifications, consider hiring someone else.

Get an Estimate

Ideally, you should get a written estimate from each heating contractor you are considering rather than a verbal estimate. To give you a strong estimate, the contractor may have to visit your home and take a look at your furnace. A written estimate also gives you more evidence in case of a dispute. This is especially important if you are installing a new HVAC system rather than just getting a minor repair done.

Be sure you know what is included in a quote before you hire a furnace repair contractor. Different contractors sometimes include different levels of work in their quotes.

Looking for More Information on Choosing a Furnace Repair Contractor?

Be sure to check out our general tips for hiring a home heating contractor. Our guide covers everything we discussed above in more depth as well as information about what to expect from the contractor, how to prepare for a contractor visit, and tips for saving on energy-efficient HVAC products. We hope you have a good experience with your furnace repair!