AC down? Don't panic

With temperatures on the rise, concerns about air conditioning systems become a hot topic. Will your AC hold up through the summer? If it fails, who should you call? What will it cost? How do you know who to trust? On today's episode of the Joe Knows Better podcast, we dive into these questions with industry experts Steve Mason, owner of Mason Pro Services in Mesa, and Chase Cottam, general manager of Hobaica Services in Phoenix. Both businesses are accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), ensuring high ethical standards.

The importance of preventative maintenance

Steve and Chase emphasize that now is the perfect time to check your AC system. Waiting until the middle of summer, when temperatures can soar above 100 degrees in Arizona, often turns a minor issue into an emergency. Preventative maintenance can save homeowners from the discomfort and higher costs associated with emergency repairs.

However, many homeowners are skeptical about preventative maintenance, fearing it’s just an opportunity for contractors to find unnecessary problems. Steve Mason acknowledges this concern but explains that while some companies may use low-cost tune-ups to upsell services, reputable businesses focus on genuine maintenance to extend the life of your unit.

Red flags and trustworthy offers

You might see advertisements for very low-cost AC tune-ups. While these offers can be tempting, Steve advises caution. Often, these deals are used to get a foot in the door, where the real goal is to sell a new unit or expensive repairs. Steve and Chase both highlight the importance of having skilled, honest technicians rather than salespeople disguised as repairmen.

For instance, Chase recounts a story where a customer was advised to replace a relatively new six-year-old unit. Upon a second opinion from a qualified technician, it was discovered that only a minor part needed replacement. This kind of integrity in diagnostics can save homeowners from unnecessary expenses.

The value of reviews and Accreditation

One crucial step in choosing an AC contractor is checking reviews and accreditation. Both Steve and Chase recommend looking at Google reviews and BBB ratings. Good reviews often indicate reliable service, while poor reviews can be a red flag. The BBB provides transparency and accountability, making it a valuable resource when evaluating potential contractors.

Understanding warranties and costs

When it comes to warranties, it’s essential to understand what is covered. Many homeowners assume a 10-year warranty means they won’t have to pay anything for a decade, but this is often not the case. Typically, these warranties cover parts but not labor, which is only covered for the first two years by the contractor. Additional costs for refrigerants, nitrogen, or other materials may also not be included.

For example, Steve mentioned a customer who faced unexpected repair bills on a three-year-old unit. Despite having a warranty, the labor and certain materials were not covered. This highlights the importance of thoroughly understanding your warranty and maintenance responsibilities to avoid surprises.

How to choose the right contractor

Choosing the right contractor should ideally be done before you’re in an emergency situation. Look for companies with good reviews, proper licensing, and strong reputations. Steve advises against companies that call unsolicited offering low-cost deals, as these are often the ones with less skilled technicians.

Licensing is another critical factor. The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC) can verify if a business is properly licensed to perform AC work. Some companies might claim to be licensed but may not have the specific license needed for HVAC services.

The importance of reliable service

One of the recurring themes in the podcast was the frustration customers face when they can't get their hired companies to return for follow-up service. This highlights the necessity of choosing a company that is consistently available and committed to after-sales service.

Handling emergency calls

Both Mason and Cottam stressed the importance of a company’s policy on emergency calls. At Hobaica Services, for instance, they guarantee same-day service for any system they’ve installed. This level of dedication ensures that customers are not left sweltering in the heat when their AC unit breaks down.

The benefits of regular maintenance

Both experts agree that regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of your AC unit. Regular check-ups can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, ensuring your system runs efficiently and reliably.

Conclusion

In summary, staying cool this summer without breaking the bank involves choosing the right contractor, understanding your warranties, and committing to regular maintenance. By doing your homework and selecting a reputable, BBB-accredited company, you can ensure your AC system is in good hands. Don’t wait for an emergency – schedule a maintenance check today and keep your cool all summer long.

Make informed choices before you hire!, check out reviews at bbb.org. Also check for BBB Accredited Businesses that agree to operate at a higher ethical standard. And check out Joes podcasts and videos helping businesses and consumers get it right. Go to joeknowsbetter.bbbcommunity.org and to the JoeKnowsBetter Facebook page.