After reading Parts 1, 2, and 3 of this series, (click here for a full recap) you are probably beginning to realize why we place so much emphasis on (and sincerely believe), that the single most important thing you can do if you have to replace your HVAC system…the one thing that will insure you of getting the optimum system…a system that provides maximum comfort for the family and at the same time is efficient, safe and economical to operate, is to find a HVAC contractor you can trust! Read on!

     As you mentally review the things that you have learned from these past 3 newsletters (how to select a company, evaluating personnel, etc) you realize that now it’s time to make some decisions. Now the sales person is in your home. So far, you’ve been on the offensive…learning (and becoming familiar with) heating and air conditioning system basics and terms…now let’s see what is the best way to profit from what you have learned so far.

     Because many salespeople either don’t know the answers (or are lazy), they hope you will make the sales call easy for them by only having to answer generic questions from you like "Will you do this? Do you do that?" Even then some will try to tap dance around and never really give you a specific answer.

     Let me suggest a different approach… one guaranteed to separate the professionals from the neophytes…let them tell you, what they can and will do for you. Then if a salesperson spends most of your time touting brands, models and price…you can quickly realize what his mindset is like and that he will probably have very little to say about the quality of their installations or their ability to supply you with solutions to your comfort issues.

     Depending on your present system, a good sales representative should include in his presentation (or at least find out if you are interested in), information on:

	•	High efficiency heating equipment.
	•	High efficiency cooling equipment.
	•	Automatic humidification to control dryness in winter.
	•	Electronic air purification.
	•	Programmable thermostat control.
When the salesperson finishes his presentation…and after he has quoted you the price, (and especially if there is a substantial difference in any other quotations you have received), think about the information that you have learned in these newsletters, and now take control of the situation by asking questions like any of the above plus:
	•	What about permits?
	•	What about license?
	•	What about insurance?
	•	What about guarantees of performance and workmanship?  Did they mention them?
When looking for a HVAC company to do your installation and maintenance, make sure to ask about all of their home heating and cooling guarantees (More about this in our next letter)…but for right now, forget warranties and service agreements…ask what kind of policy they have regarding your satisfaction. What will they do if you're not happy with their work?
Caution Caution Caution Caution Caution
Your best protection is to get everything in writing. You're going to hear all kinds of promises, but they don't mean anything until you have them written down, on company stationery, and signed by the salesperson. If it isn't written down - it probably won't happen.
Prices will vary due to:
	•	Installation
	•	Installation materials/supplies (or the lack thereof).
	•	Guarantees, and warranties.
We’ll take these up in more detail in our next newsletters.
First Alert:   On March 1st, Climatemakers launched its annual Spring promotion for 2008. Although the promotion lasts for 6 weeks, the discounts for signing up early are on a sliding scale. I.e., there are only 18 days remaining for max discount (40%). For complete details Click Here.