Heating System Service and Repair

The middle of winter isn't the ideal time to have a heating system serviced. However, sometimes it's necessary, even though it can mean a long wait and higher prices. Whether time is ideal or urgent, it's best to heed furnace repair recommendations to get good service. Consumer protection organizations such as the Better Business Bureau offer several tips for choosing a reputable and qualified furnace repair service.

Refuse phone solicitations that offer "free" or "low cost" furnace repair or maintenance. These scam artists often try to bilk homeowners by telling them their heating system has serious problems when it doesn't. In addition, sometimes these "free" services are fronts for burglary rings that later come back and strip the home of valuables. Don't fall for this scam.

Refuse to hire anyone who rings your doorbell offering to clean the air ducts with a "shop-vac." It takes a high-volume or steam-clean vacuum system to clean heating ducts properly. Don't be fooled into hiring a company because its "inspector" says the home heating system poses a serious health hazard. If someone gives you this kind of report, ask for a written copy of the report and then consult with the local utility service.

Seek out at least three written estimates from independent, qualified service companies if an inspector says the home furnace needs repairs or replacement. Be sure that each inspection report and estimate includes full descriptions of the services required, the materials that will be used, the total price, warranty on parts and labor and the energy efficiency rating of a new unit if one is called for.