There will come a time when regardless of everything you have tried on your own, you must call your HVAC Service Company to come and check out your system for repair. In order to save time and make sure they send out a HVAC Tech with the right skills for your system, it's a good idea to complete the following checklist and have it in hand when you make the call. Along with this information, you can use the Tips for Finding a Reputable HVAC Contractor checklist, to be sure you get the right company and technician, the first time!

HVAC Brand, Type, Model and Serial Numbers

Knowing the system brand and model number will immediately reduce the chance that you get a company who is not skilled with your specific system. While most HVAC Contractors work on all brands, you will find that those who are factory authorized and spend most of their time on the same brand as yours, will have far more knowledge and be able to solve your brand specific issues much faster.

Age of Your HVAC Unit

Knowing the age of your unit will help the HVAC Service company prepare for your call by sending the right technician! Many companies have specific technicians that are just better at some types of unit repairs than others. These technicians will be better prepared with the right stock repair parts on their trucks and if not, know exactly where to get the parts needed for your repair. In addition to having the right parts, a company may prefer to send a sales technician, one who fixes and quotes replacement cost, if the unit is more than 10 years old. In many cases, it just makes sense to replace versus repair on older units.

Last Service Date and Company Information

Knowing the last time your unit was serviced, and who handled the service call, will help the HVAC Service company understand how your system has been maintained over its life. Your HVAC system should be maintained at least once a year, preferably, twice!

Any Unusual Noises it May Have Made Before it Failed

If your unit made any odd noises before it failed, this will be very helpful to the service company! A loud whining noise from the AC Condenser may indicate a fan motor failure, or a loud whooshing sound, may indicate a failed copper tubing line. The sounds your unit makes can help diagnose the problem much faster!

Any Unusual Odors or Leaks You May Have Noticed

If you noticed any leaks or off smells from your vents or the system itself, this will help them not only diagnose the problem, but they may also recommend you leave the home in the case of furnaces going bad.

Any Unusual Characteristics of the Faulty Unit

Is your system covered in Ice? Are the ducts shaking? Any odd characteristic of your system, whether it happened overnight or over the course of time, will help the HVAC Service company diagnose and repair the issue much faster!

After you have the information in hand, find a qualified HVAC service company and call them.

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