Selecting a heating and air conditioning professional to perform installation or maintenance is an important decision. Without a thoughtful selection, you could be left with the high costs of poor workmanship and ongoing issues.

Neighbors Heating and Air suggests that you take the following steps to make the right choice.

Research. Ask neighbors and friends for referrals. If none are available, check online or review other resources including community directories and phonebooks to select a few companies. It is also helpful to look up customer ratings and reviews on web sites such as Kudzu.com.

Inquire. Don’t hesitate to ask about the experience of the companies you’ve researched. Be sure to inquire if they will perform free estimates. See if technicians are trained and have proper licenses, or certification. Without a referral or customer information, compare a couple of companies to make an informed decision.

Better Business Bureau. Refer to the Better Business Bureau for more in depth analysis. This impartial information can reveal any blemishes or concerns.

Interview. Be sure to determine if subcontractors are used, or if work is performed exclusively by employees. Ask if employees are given thorough background checks and drug testing. Review references. It’s a huge red flag if they won’t provide them. Most importantly, ensure that they can do the job within budget.

Guarantees. Regardless of who you choose, it is wise to seek a satisfaction guarantee and available warranties. Make sure labor and parts are covered.

Estimates. To avoid any unfortunate “surprises,” insist on a written estimate that details the job, how long it will take, and the cost. Use caution if the company won’t provide this.

Payment. While it is not unusual to pay some portion to get started, you should never pay the full amount until the job is done and you’re completely satisfied.

For additional peace of mind, also consider a service agreement, which includes regular maintenance and service calls. You can also be given priority on the waiting list. This can more than pay for itself by catching major malfunctions before they happen.