Here are a few things to consider when choosing the most appropriate company for your
air conditioning needs:
Contractor or Service Provider?
You can generally expect a contractor to be better at installations and a service provider to be better at providing an on-going service. Both types of companies have an important role to play, depending on your requirements.
Customer Service Record
Longevity alone does not guarantee good service; some companies have been around a long time but take their clients for granted, so try to ascertain whether they are progressive and client focused. However, if a company has been trading successfully for some time they are probably doing something right and are likely to be around for some time yet.
Geographical Coverage
Some smaller companies are reluctant to travel far, concentrating on serving their local area. Service providers usually travel throughout the wider metropolitan area and the location of their head office can be irrelevant.
If you own or manage several properties throughout the country, a service provider with interstate branches may suit you.
Response Time
Some service providers (and contractors) promise good response times but let their clients down when it comes to actually showing up on time. It is difficult to judge how well a service provider will respond, but you could contact one of their existing clients, if possible, or just try them.
Choose a Specialist
For expertise and competence, choose a specialist. Service technicians possess very different skills to installers (the reverse also applies). A company specialising in this area employs technicians who perform many day-to-day repairs, so become very skilled at it.
Pricing
Be careful of selecting on the basis of hourly rate alone; if the service provider is not competent, the job may take longer and cost you more. Good service with competent, well-trained employees inevitably costs a little more, but if you feel you are being overcharged or are not happy with the workmanship you should look elsewhere.
Licenses, Insurances and OSH
Dealing with a fully licensed and insured company provides you with peace of mind and is an indication of its competence. The company should also have all Occupational Safety and Health procedures in place to ensure a safe working environment for all.
