Keeping Your HVAC System Free and ClearKeeping Your HVAC System Free and Clear

Which furnace repair or heating system repair company is the right choice? There's no one-size-fits-all contractor for every homeowner's needs. If this is your first experience with heating repair, take a look at the questions to ask right now. 

Does the Contractor Service the Type of System In Your Home?

Before you can get the answer to this question, you need to know what type of heater you have. The most common types of home heating systems are solar, electric resistance, ductless mini-split, radiant, boilers, and forced air furnaces. If you're not sure which type your home has, look for:

• Air ducts. Does your home have a series of exposed ducts in the basement or vents in the walls? Forced air furnaces use ducts and vents to push air from the main heating unit throughout your home and into each room.

• Radiators. Hot water/boiler radiant systems use these devices to heat the interior space. Some types of radiant heating elements are visible (as stand-alone radiators), while others are under the floor. If your home doesn't have ducts and vents, it's likely it has radiant heating. 

• Wall units. A ductless mini-split heat pump uses wall-mounted indoor air handlers and an exterior unit to heat and cool the air. If you have indoor air handlers, no ducts, no vents, and no radiators, you have a ductless heat pump system.

If you're still not sure what type of heater you have, talk to the professional. The HVAC technician has the knowledge and experience to assess your home's system and tell you whether they can service the type of heater or not.

Does the Contractor Service the Brand of Heater In Your Home?

Now that you know what type of system you have, it's time to take the next step and learn more about the manufacturer. Your HVAC contractor of choice needs to service the specific brand of heating system you own for several reasons. These include:

• Manufacturer's warranty. Is your heater still under warranty? If it is, the manufacturer may only reimburse you or pay for repairs and replacements made by authorized service contractors. 

• Parts. Does the contractor have access to the right parts? Some heater brands may use specific parts that authorized repair contractors have in stock or can get easily.

• Knowledge and experience. How well does the contractor know your home's heating system? The more knowledge the technician has working with your home's heater, the better service you'll get.

Like the heater type, the technician can also help you to find out what manufacturer made your home's system. If you're not sure of the brand or can't find a label on the main heater unit, you may need to schedule an inspection appointment with your HVAC contractor.