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HOW CAN WE HELP? 
| home > our dealers > how to select a dealer |
Choosing the right dealer can make a big difference in your home's
comfort. Make sure you keep these simple tips in mind:
1. Check credentials.
Before making your choice, call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the
dealer is reputable. Also, find out if the dealer is a member of a local
association such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. Always a plus.
And ask if the dealer is NATE certified. It's the highest level of training for
installation and service.
2. Make sure the dealer is affiliated with a
nationally known manufacturer.
A manufacturer of any magnitude will offer dealers factory training. As a
result, when they make recommendations, you can be more assured they have
selected the right system for your home.
3. Ask for references.
Former customers are an excellent source of information. Call and ask if they
were pleased with the work performed.
4. Expect an on-site evaluation.
A good dealer should take a thorough look at your home, evaluate its overall
comfort needs and recommend the correct system to meet those needs. Beware of
anyone that simply takes information over the phone and makes a recommendation
without ever visiting your home.
5. Check all local licenses.
A dealer may have to comply with certain local or state regulations, so ask to
see any applicable state and local licenses, as well as insurance for liability
and workmen's compensation.
6. Ask questions.
Ask for details about the company's experience, and the expertise of its staff.
This is particularly important if yours is a more involved installation, like
those that require adding or changing ductwork.
7. Inquire about warranties.
Limited warranties vary according to manufacturer. Make sure the dealer
explains the terms of your limited warranty and that you understand it. Many
manufacturers also offer optional extended warranties, which you should inquire
about at the time of purchase.
8. Get a written estimate.
To make a fair comparison among dealers, be sure the estimates you are looking
at are based on the same equipment size and efficiency, the same service and
the same quality of installation. Be wary of a contractor who offers
unrealistically low prices; it may mean corners are being cut, which can cause
future problems.
9. Ask about maintenance contracts.
Many contractors offer maintenance contracts that provide for periodic
maintenance of equipment. The fee for such contracts is usually well worth it
in terms of obtaining optimum performance from your system. These checks are
usually performed before the heating or cooling season begins.
10. Insist on a written contract.
When you have finalized the details, ask your dealer to put it in writing. This
will help you avoid any misunderstanding about equipment and services included
in the contract.
AccuClean™
Brand name for American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning's whole home air filtration system that removes up to 99.98% of airborne allergens from the filtered air in your home.
See full definitionAFUE
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. AFUE is a rating that reflects how efficiently a gas furnace converts fuel to energy.
Allergen
A substance that causes an allergic reaction. It includes dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, dust mites, and a variety of other airborne particles.
Capacity
The output or producing capability of a piece of cooling or heating equipment. Cooling and heating capacity are normally referred to in BTUs.
Comfort-R™
Comfort-R™ is American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning's process for reducing your home's humidity and maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Ductwork
Pipes or channels that carry air throughout your home.
HEPA Filter
A High Efficiency Particulate Absorbing filter. A HEPA filter removes particles from the air by trapping them as air flows through.
HSPF
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. Refers to the efficiency of the heating mode of heat pumps over an entire heating season.
SEER and HSPF will vary, depending on the models and combination of the indoor and outdoor unit
Humidity
The amount of moisture in the air. Variable speed systems can remove this moisture for added comfort.
Indoor Coil
The other, less visible half of your outdoor unit. It's attached to your furnace or air handler.
Matched System
A heating and cooling system where all of its components are matched in capacity and efficiency.
N.A.T.E.
North American Technician Excellence. It's the nationwide certification program for home heating and cooling technicians.
SEER
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. AFUE is a rating that reflects how efficiently a gas furnace converts fuel to energy.
SEER and HSPF will vary, depending on the models and combination of the indoor and outdoor unit
Variable Speed Motor(s)
The fan motor inside higher efficiency indoor and outdoor units is designed to change its speed based on your home's requirements.
