Giving Your AC a Pre-Season Checkup a Cool Idea
As the temperature slowly starts to climb turning on the AC begins to sound like a good idea, the Better Business Bureau reminds consumers of the importance of having their air conditioners serviced. Waiting until the temperature has reached the 90-degree mark only to find out the AC is not working properly can lead to much frustration and wasted money.
In the past 12 months, the BBB of Northern Colorado and Wyoming received 2,053 inquiries about air condition contractors and companies and five complaints.
Maintaining your AC is just as important as maintaining your car. Yearly checkups are important to ensure everything runs properly and safely. According to Air Conditioning Contractors of America, ignoring your AC system means it will break down more, need replacement sooner and cost you more money throughout its shortened lifespan.
In addition to yearly checkups, there are additional things you can do to keep your AC performing at its best: buy good filters and change them often, keep shrubs and other materials away from your AC unit; and avoid closing vents in your house.
Some of the most common mistakes consumers make when looking for an AC contractor is rushing to hire the first contractor they find, not getting multiple bids, and not getting all the details in writing.
If you are in need of an AC repair or just following through on a recommended checkup, your BBB recommends the following:
• Research company background and licensing. Visit bbb.org for the Business Review of any AC service company you plan to hire to learn more about its reputation and history of complaints. Ask if the company and its employees are licensed and insured.
• Compare prices and service packages. Get at least three estimates for any air conditioning repair or maintenance work. All bids should be in writing and should provide a full description of the services to be provided and the materials to be used.
• Review warranty coverage. Find out if the company offers any type of warranty or guarantee and make certain you understand the terms and conditions of the coverage. Also, be sure to check the warranty on your current air conditioning unit to determine whether any repairs or replacements may be covered.
• Ask about energy efficiency. Many new air conditioning units are manufactured to be significantly more energy efficient than others, which often qualifies them as tax deductions. Make sure you get the necessary paperwork to cash in on those savings.
Start With Trust. For trustworthy consumer tips and information, visit wynco.bbb.org or call 970-484-1348 or 800-564-0371.
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