AC Tips for Desert Folk

RandR · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 12:57 PM Post subject: AC Tips for Desert Folk

I didn't know where to post this, since there isn't business forum at C.com. I just want to give a few tips on how to handle your home's AC since it is getting warm down here in the desert. To show that I am not just trying to get business and honsetly just want to contribute to the community, I will not put my company's name or number.

1) Get maintenance service. This is so important. Not only does your AC work more efficiently (ie consumes less energy), but it will go a long way towards extending the life of your AC and preventing break downs. If you are short on cash, the IID has a "Check Me!" program. Through the program your AC gets a tune-up and gets washed. Look it up to find out which AC companies are participating and then give one a call, 'cause it's free. I believe the only requirement is that you haven't had the "Check Me!" service performed at your home or rental in the past three years.

2) If your AC breaks down call a licensed contractor. I know everyone has a cousin or uncle that says they can fix your AC for 20 bucks, but think about it. An AC is a piece of equipment that costs several thousand dollars, and is a basic necessity in the desert. It's worth paying a professional to get it fixed.

But don't just fork over your money. When you call an AC contractor, start gauging the company's professionalism right away. Is the person who answers the phone courteous? Are they clear about the fees to check your AC out and do they describe what those fees cover? Does the company seem organized -- as in, do they have you in a database if you've called before or do they know where their techs are and how soon they can get one to you house?

When that tech gets to your house, ask lots of questions. How does the AC look? Are there other problems that could be coming up soon? Basically ask the tech anything that pops into your head and get as much info as you can. He might roll his eyes, but you need to be informed about the state of your AC.

3) If you are looking to replace your home's AC get a few bids. This gives you an advantage when negotiating a price. "Hey, Company B is offering a lower price. Can you match it, Company A?" And let them work for your business.

Always, always, ALWAYS ask for a discount. You will get it every time. EVERY TIME. It might not be a huge discount, but if you could save a few bucks by taking 3 seconds to ask a question, that's a pretty sound investment of your time and energy.

But DO NOT ACCEPT A BID JUST BECAUSE IT IS CHEAP. If two companies are offering the same service and one is significantly cheaper that the other, why do you think that is? Every AC contractor is trying to make as much money as possible, it is a business after all. So if a contractor's price is dramatically low, they either: Didn't correctly estimate the amount of work and material needed to do the job (which means you will get screwed since they will cut every corner possible as soon as they realize they under-bid your home's project), or fully intend to cut every corner possible from the beginning, or are terrible business people and as such will not be in business for much longer (good luck trying to get some one to honor your AC's warranties then).

There are companies that have trained employess to "up-sell", which means they persuade you to add perks to your AC system that you do not really need. So watch out for that too. In the end, when replacing your AC, the key is to not accept a bid because it's really cheap, but beware of bids that are really high as well.

How much a service costs is only one part of the decision making process, when you are getting your home's AC replaced. Base your decision on a company's professionalism, service, programs, and pricing.

Sorry if my tips ran long. Hope they are helpful.

elchrist · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 03:09 PM Post subject:

Great tips! Thanks for "sharing."

Question: Do you need to service your heating system every year? I totally forgot to do this, but it worked fine, AFAIK.

I will definitely remember to schedule service for the super caloron thermonuclear coming to a hellhole near me.

RandR · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 03:50 PM Post subject:

Soulman · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 06:38 PM Post subject: Re: AC Tips for Desert Folk

Soulman · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 11:29 PM Post subject: Re: AC Tips for Desert Folk

[quote="Soulman"]

RandR · Posted: 28 Feb 2008 11:32 PM Post subject: Re: AC Tips for Desert Folk

elchrist · Posted: 29 Feb 2008 08:55 AM Post subject: Re: AC Tips for Desert Folk

RandR · Posted: 29 Feb 2008 11:06 AM Post subject: Re: AC Tips for Desert Folk

verbal · Posted: 01 Mar 2008 11:11 AM Post subject:

How can a consumer know or protect themselves from a company who cuts corners?

RandR · Posted: 02 Mar 2008 07:30 PM Post subject: