When you have work done at your house, you literally have to live with the results. That is why we say "THE SWEET TASTE OF QUALITY LASTS LONGER THAN THE BITTER TASTE OF PRICE". If you paid a little too much, all you have lost is a little money. On the other hand if what you purchased does not perform for what you bought it for, then you have lost everything.

When that work deals with your home's comfort system, it takes on even more meaning since your indoor air quality is involved.

So when it comes time to repair, replace or add an HVAC system, take the extra time and care in choosing your dealer. It could make a big difference.

• Check credentials before making your choice. Call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the dealer is reputable.
• The dealer should be affiliated with a nationally known manufacturer. They take advantage of factory training and you can be assured they have selected the right system for you, plus they are also trained in installation and service.
• Expect an on site evaluation. A good dealer should take a look through your home, evaluate your overall comfort needs and recommend the best system for you.
• Make sure the company has applicable licenses and insurance for liability.
• DON'T be afraid to ask questions. Ask for details about the firm's stability. Experience is a factor, since it takes more thought, planning and know how to get the job done, especially if there is an existing home where ductwork must be added.
• Ask for references. Existing customers are an excellent source of information.
• Get a cost proposal. To make a fair comparison, be sure the bids you are looking at include the services you've requested and are based on the same size and efficiency equipment, same warranties, same quality of workmanship. Be wary of a dealer who offers unrealistically low prices; it may mean corners are being cut in crucial areas.
• Inquire about preventative maintenance contracts. The fee for such contracts is usually well worth it in terms of obtaining optimum efficiency from your system.
• Inquire about Extended Warranties, most authorized dealer will offer such warranties backed by the manufacturer at a very reasonable price, plus piece of mind.

Taking all this into consideration remember...
IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE... IT'S BECAUSE IT PROBABLY ISN'T!