How to Choose an Air Conditioning Supplier
The air conditioning shortage continues to affect contractors, homeowners and suppliers. As such, it’s critical to choose a supplier that can offer reliable equipment at fair prices.
Badger Bob’s takes a diversified approach to air conditioning manufacturers, working with Carrier, Trane and York. Martin says they’ve even had to resort to cannibalizing in-stock units to keep up with demand.
Capabilities
As the HVAC supply chain has been affected by worker shortages and global trade issues that have led to material shortages, it’s vital for contractors to be able to rely Air Conditioning Supplier on their suppliers. The right supplier can apply their experience to guarantee that technical parts are available when needed, so contractors can complete jobs on time and within budget.
Choosing an HVAC equipment supplier with multiple global delegations can help reduce transport times. Additionally, an online inventory management tool like ServiceTitan can give contractors visibility into their current stock levels, purchase orders, work orders, and adjustments so they can stay on track with projects.
Until the shortages end, it’s a good idea for HVAC companies to consider alternatives for materials used in their technical parts such as expanded plastic foam (EPP), a durable and sustainable alternative that is manufactured by Knauf Appliances. This could allow technicians to find a solution for their customers, even if they have to charge a little more than usual.
Experience
When evaluating enclosure air conditioning suppliers, consider how long they have been in business and their level of experience. Compare equipment details such as energy consumption, BTUH ratings, supply voltage options and more. Evaluate technical support as well. Can they offer assistance with unique HVAC problems? Do they have a design team that can help you with difficult installations?
In the current context of ongoing supply chain constraints, it can make sense to work with a supplier that has a lot of experience. As such, they are more likely to be able to anticipate challenges and collaborate with you to ensure that you’re always working with the right materials and components.
It might also be smart to work with multiple suppliers, as each responds to market changes at different paces. This can allow you to check pricing and delivery options as market conditions change. Additionally, it may be worth looking for suppliers with a location close to your headquarters. This way, you can minimize the impact of global transportation blockages and fuel costs on your operations.
Certifications
A HVAC certification demonstrates your expertise and dedication to the industry. This can help you to attract more Air Conditioning company clients and earn higher profits. It also enables you to offer superior services, such as speeding up air conditioning installation and repair. Besides proving your dedication to the industry, HVAC certifications also show that you are committed to the customer’s sense of comfort.
Some states require that HVAC technicians become certified. This means that they must pass a certification exam and meet other requirements, such as acquiring a license and insurance. In New York, there are three HVAC-related licenses that you can obtain. You can obtain one of these by passing an exam at a BPI Test Center and meeting other requirements, such as having two years of field experience.
You can also get an entry-level certificate that is a prerequisite for a career in the industry. This certification typically requires a few months of training and covers safety protocols and equipment use. It can be an excellent way to start your career in the industry.
You can also pursue a professional-level technician certification. These exams are discipline-specific and close-book. They cover topics such as system design, applications, electrical wiring, and charging. The exams are available at a BPI Test Center and you can see the results online within a few weeks.
Customer Service
The ability to engage customers and provide them with a great service experience is one of the most important capabilities for an HVAC company. This can be done by establishing a system for communicating with clients and ensuring their expectations are met. Good communication, professionalism and a respectful demeanor can all play a role in customer satisfaction.
HVAC businesses that are able to communicate effectively with their customers will have an easier time managing their scheduling and dispatching processes. Having an efficient system in place can help HVAC professionals keep appointments on schedule and reduce customer frustration by not disappointing them with inaccurate ETAs. Using an app like ServiceTitan Mobile will allow HVAC technicians to build estimates on the go with photos, manufacturer videos and product details to create a professional presentation that allows the customer to browse their options at their leisure.
When a technician is on-site, it’s important for them to have the information they need to answer any questions from the customer. This includes knowing how to troubleshoot issues and explain their findings in a way that is easy for the customer to understand. It also helps if they can provide helpful tips for keeping their equipment in tip-top shape, such as user manuals and quick DIY maintenance advice.
Customer retention is essential for HVAC companies to grow their business. Loyal customers are much more likely to spread the word about a great HVAC company, providing free marketing for a business.
