What are some tips for negotiating with a heating repair company?

When it comes to negotiating with heating repair companies, there are a few things you should know. Heating repair companies are independent contractors who work for multiple heating and cooling companies throughout the country. Because of this, they have no incentive to provide you with a fair price or take your situation into account when quoting for repairs. In fact, you may even find that the technician quotes you a higher price than he quotes other customers! Fortunately, there are ways to counteract this. Here are some tips for negotiating with a heating repair company:

Have a written estimate

Before you even call the technician, you should already have a written estimate for repairs. This way, you can compare apples to apples and make sure that you’re getting a fair price. You should also make sure that the estimate includes a detailed breakdown of the costs. If it doesn’t, politely inform the technician that you need something more detailed.

Ask about the warranty

Many heating repair companies offer a warranty of sorts when they perform repairs. Some warranties cover the replacement parts, while others cover the labor. You should ask about the warranty, and make sure that it’s in writing. If the technician doesn’t offer a warranty, politely inform him that you’re going to have to pay for repairs out of pocket.

Be persistent

When you call to schedule repair services, politely ask the technician if he can knock the price down. If he says no, don’t give up. Instead, call back a few hours later and ask again. If he still says no, don’t give up. Instead, call the company and ask them to cut the repair price.

Bottom line

Negotiating with a heating repair company can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. With the right approach, you can get a much better deal on your repairs. It’s important to remember that the technician isn’t the one who’s being paid. You are, so it’s your job to get a fair price. With the tips above, you should be well prepared to negotiate with a heating repair company. Now all you have to do is follow the advice and watch your budget get a little bit bigger!

Frequently Asked Question

How often should a residential HVAC system be serv

We recommend service be performed once a year at a minimum, especially before winter. Some people have their HVAC units serviced spring and fall to prepare for the coming heat of summer or in the fall to prepare for winter. Proper maintenance will prolong the life of your HVAC unit.

How should I set my heat in the winter?
  • When Home: 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit
  • When Sleeping: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
  • When You're Away: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Adjust thermostat in 5-8 degree increments
How can I keep my house warm without central heati
  • Install a Wood Burning Stove
  • Utilize Fire in Fireplace and Block Chimney When Not in Use
  • Make Sure All Doors and Windows Are Properly Sealed
  • Cook often
  • Install Insulated Curtain Liners to Trap Heat
  • Allow as Much Sunlight to Hit Home as Possible via Landscaping
How can I heat my house more efficiently?
  • Use your curtains
  • Use timers on your central heating
  • Move your sofa
  • Maximise your insulation
  • Wrap up warm
  • Turn down the dial
  • Block out the draughts
  • Install thermostatic radiator valves
​What is the most economical way to run heating?
According to experts at the Energy Saving Trust, the idea it's cheaper to leave the heating on low all day is a myth. They're clear that having the heating on only when you need it is, in the long run, the best way to save energy, and therefore money. You will also want to have someone perform regular heating maintenance on your system at least once a year.
​Is it better to keep heat on low or turn off?
Turning the heat down eliminates these issues, while still reducing the amount of energy you use. You can save 10% off of your heating bill for every 10° you lower your thermostat.
​How do people survive winter without heating?
  • Opt for Plug-In Energy Saving Electric Radiators. 
  • Dry Clothes with a Heated Airer
  • Use Electric Blankets & Heated Throws
  • A Winter Duvet is a Must
  • Draught-Proof the Home
  • Insulate your home
  • Choose Carpets & Rugs Over Solid Floors
How can I make a homemade heater?
  • Put 3-4 candles on a tray and light them up.
  • Position two bricks on either side of the tray and two behind the tray
  • Take the ceramic bowl and put it upside down on the tray
  • Place the small fan on the bricks behind the tray
  • Turn on the fan, and your setup is complete
Is it cheaper to leave heat on all day?
In fact, leaving your heat on all day can actually cost you much more than turning it off every now and then. Heat tends to diffuse, so the high heat in your home will diffuse to areas of low heat outside the home during the winter. So even when you have your furnace on, your home is always losing a little bit of heat.
​Is it cheaper to keep your house at one temperatu
Keeping your home at a constant temperature generally means that your heating system will run constantly to meet it. This means that your furnace or air conditioner may run when you're asleep, at work, or out of the house. This wastes more energy than the minimal amount that you might save by having it constantly run.
​Does turning off radiators in unused rooms save m
As long as you close the doors so the cold air doesn't seep into the rest of the house, you will save money by turning off the radiators in unused rooms. By doing so, you'll prevent the water in the system from running through that particular radiator.