Furnaces typically last for about 15 to 20 years. There could be early warning signs or malfunctions as they approach their expiry date or even earlier. Ignoring the signs could lead to costly repairs and replacements, some of which may not be covered by your homeowner’s warranty or insurance. That is why you should have a contract with a good furnace service company that can provide periodic maintenance and tune-ups so that the furnace can work well till the end.

If you cannot find an exclusive furnace service or repair company, you can also reach out to HVAC repair companies that undertake furnace repairs. Here are some points to tick to choose the right furnace repair company.

Cheap service need not be good service
Our inbox sometimes could be filled with messages promising cheap service for our appliances and home systems. It is better to ignore such unverified messages and only look for authorized companies. These companies will employ trained and certified technicians and only use genuine and original replacements rather than provide a “touch-up” or a “band-aid” service. If the furnace repair is not done efficiently, it can affect the other HVAC components and lead to severe repairs and breakdowns.

Research online
Many websites like Angie’s List, Home Advisor, etc., list professionals in your area, rate and review them. You can read the reviews, reach out to the companies listed in the area, compare rates, warranties, insurance, and choose a company that offers good quality service and value for money. You can also inquire on social media platforms, local communities, and friends and family in the neighborhood for suitable recommendations.

Licenses
The furnace repair company should be registered with the Department of Labor and Industry. They will need to have a general construction contractor license, and the technicians should be covered with worker’s compensation insurance. Verify if they are authorized agents for multiple brands and types of furnaces.

Quality of service
Check if the technicians have the necessary qualifications and have insurance. They should provide professional service and be available on call in case of any emergencies. Another point to inquire about is if the company will help you with the necessary documentation for claiming homeowners insurance. The company should be able to repair all brands and all types of furnaces.

Accessibility
Furnace problems can occur at any time of the day. If it happens during winter, will the staff be available on call 24×7 for inspection and estimate? Most companies have a team of technicians who are on standby for any emergency repair.

Types of service
A furnace repair company is experienced in providing a complete range of services so that they can not only provide emergency repairs but also offer services like:

• Free inspection and estimate
• Clean-up and repair services
• Follow up services
• Maintenance services
• Tune-ups
• Assistance with insurance claim

Maintenance contracts and tune-up plans
Though furnaces last for about 15-20 years, they could start giving issues because they work in coherence with other mechanical components. Periodic tune-ups and maintenance are required to prevent problems in the furnace and other components of your heating systems or HVAC systems. Check if the service provider offers such annual maintenance and tune plans.

Guarantee of service
Many service companies offer a guarantee of service for a certain time – that is, there will not be any complaint or breakdown during the said period, and if there is, the company will do the service free of cost. Choose companies who offer this guarantee so that you do not have to pay once again in case of any malfunction right after repair.

Customer service
The company should be focused on prompt, polite, and professional customer service by providing regular follow-up. They should remind and send alerts about annual maintenance or tune-ups that you have enrolled for.