2 Questions To Ask The Heating Services Contractor Before And During Your Appointment

Posted on: 22 March 2023

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What should you ask the HVAC technician about your next heating services appointment? Maybe your system isn't heating as it should. But you're not sure what questions to ask the contractor before, during, or after the service call. Take a look at the repair-related questions to address right now. 

What Does the Service Call Include?

This is a pre-appointment question that can help you to find the best contractor for your home's HVAC needs and set expectations for the visit. The specific services the appointment includes will depend on the reason for the repair call. In general, any heating system services contractor should inspect the main unit and all of the related components. These include the thermostat, air ducts (if you have forced air heat), radiators (if you have a boiler), blowers, electrical connections, air filters, central unit parts, and possibly even the vents. 

After the inspection, the technician should provide you with a written description of the recommended repairs and replacement parts. The estimate should include either the price per repair or the price per hour of service (depending on the contractor's preference). You may need to agree to the repairs or replacements by signing a service contract or a written estimate before the technician begins to work on your furnace. 

Provided the technician has the necessary parts, you can expect a full repair service on the day of your appointment. But if the company doesn't carry the right parts for your heater or the technician doesn't have the components with them, you will need to schedule a second appointment. 

When Should You Expect to Feel a Difference?

Poor heating is one of the top reasons to call an HVAC contractor. If your home feels cool or there are cold/warm spots, you will want to know when the indoor air will return to a comfortable level. Ideally, the technician could repair your system or replace any failing parts immediately. This type of fast fix should lead to almost instant heating in your home. But it may not always give your chilly household an immediate summer-time-like heat. 

The thermostat setting, the size of your home, the heating power of the unit, and the insulation can affect the length of time it takes to warm your home. Extreme outdoor cold may also extend the time your system needs to bring the temperature down. Even though it may take more than a few minutes for your home to reach a warm temperature, the air coming from the ducts and vents should never feel cold. If the system still blows warm or hot air, you will need to contact the contractor.

Contact a local heating system service to learn more.