Contractor FAQ

What does flat rate billing mean?

Flat rate means that the price you're quoted is the price you pay - no extras added on, or "hidden" fees. Flat rate pricing is our way of guaranteeing that you get excellent service and a fair price every time you call.

Why would I want a maintenance agreement? Can't I just service my system when I feel like it?

You could service your system when you feel like it... the same way you can give your car an oil change when you feel like it. But, just as your car's performance will suffer if it's not serviced, so will your home comfort system. The longer you go between services, the more dust and dirt accumulate, and the less efficient your system is - which means you're wasting energy dollars. A maintenance agreement schedules your system's tune ups automatically. We keep up with when your system needs to be checked out, and we schedule it so that you don't have to worry about figuring out when to give us a call. Plus, Maintenance Agreement customers get priority service and discounts on any repairs you may eventually need. It's a win-win all the way around!

What other ways can I reduce my energy bills?

Keeping energy bills lower requires a few smart moves, such as...

• Clean the filters monthly and replace as necessary to save energy and reduce dust and pollen in the air. (Ask us about filter upgrades.)
• Raise the temperature setting when you go out to reduce operating costs. Better yet, we've got simple-to use programmable thermostats. Set it and forget it!
• Shade your air conditioner from direct sun. This will reduce its workload. Often planting a simple tree or shrub can do the trick, but don't let it restrict airflow.
• Tune Up your heat pump or air conditioner since maintenance is the number one factor in system inefficiency and failure. This is fast, painless, and can save big.
• Install ceiling fans. The air circulation promotes cooling in the summer and heating efficiency in the winter.
• Close drapes to keep out the hot daytime sun, especially on south and west-facing windows. Sunny windows make air conditioners work 2 to 3 times harder.
• Close fireplace dampers or glass doors. Going up the chimney with a bound may serve as a dramatic exit for Santa, but don't allow your cooled air to use that same escape hatch.
• Upgrade appliances. Consider replacing old appliances with new energy-efficient models. Look for the Energy Star label. Upgrades will pay for themselves over time through savings on your utility bills.
• Weather-strip windows and exterior doors. If air is leaking, you are throwing money out the window. Roughly 40% of the unwanted heat that builds up in your home comes in through windows.

What are some common contractor scams?

If you're planning a home improvement project, there are lots of great contractors to choose from. But remember, all contractors DO NOT operate within the law. Your "rip-off" alert should be in high gear when a less than reputable contractor:

• Goes door-to-door with high pressure selling tactics;
• "Can't find" his contracting license;
• Just happens to have materials left over from a previous job;
• Only accepts cash payments;
• Asks you to get the required permits;
• Does not list a business number in the local telephone directory;
• Says your job will be a "demonstration;"
• Pressures you for a decision;
• Asks you to pay for the entire job up-front;
• Strongly suggests that you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows. Be careful, or you could lose your home through a home improvement loan scam.

Make sure that a contractor is licensed and reputable. Ask your friends for referrals; ask the contractor for references; and check out contractors with the Better Business Bureau, state and local consumer protection officials, and your state licensing agency.