Looking For Contractors
How is the repair technician compensated?
How much does a service call cost? The only common thing you have to judge a company on is that initial service call price. Many companies offer a very low price and then very expensive repair costs to make up for it. Did you know that many repair "technicians" are actually commissioned salespeople? To increase a company's bottom line, repair part sales are very strongly encouraged by giving the technicians a percentage of the parts they sell. Although not evil in itself, because more parts means more take home pay, you can see the potential for a conflict of interest, and maybe more repair parts than you need. J.R. Perkins does NOT practice this method of business, we believe in fixing the problem, not selling you parts you don't need! So don't be fooled by the low up front service fee.
Where is the Company Located?
There are many Company's that are actually franchised or consolidated and they send all profits to another state. These Companies are responsible to investors that except to see a return on investment. As a result, very aggressive sales tactics are used in order to secure the expected monthly revenue. Once again, although not in itself a bad thing, you can see the potential to focus more on the Company and less on you.
Then there are the Company's that do not have an address but rather work out of the back of a truck or a rented storage facility. Generally, these are new Company's that are less experienced, have minimal staffing, little ongoing training, and compete primarily on low prices. Although you may pay less for their services, they may not be able to service you after the sale or may not even be in business six months from now. In other words, you may not be able to establish a long-term relationship with them that can help you in the future.
Does the Company have Accredited Technicians?
Many repair technicians have never had formal training and do not participate in continuation training either. Better companies have technicians certified by independent organizations such as NATE (North American Training Excellence). Better air conditioning contractors are also members of trade organizations such as ACCA, (A/C Contractors of America) and have a staff person that has been trained by a brand name manufacturer. A continuing education program is important to keep on top of the changing technology in today's new machinery.
Does the Air Conditioning Contractor have a license free of violations and is their bond current?
Some air conditioning contractors are not licensed. As long as they charge less than $750 for any repair, the state of Arizona exempts them from all licensing obligations. The Registrar of Contractors is the certifying agency for all contractors in our state and is the clearinghouse for complaints against any contractor. Check with the Registrar and also the better business bureau to ensure that your contractor is in compliance and that their license is current and there are no open complaints about the contractor.
The telemarketing call with the "introductory" offer
Some Air Conditioning companies are jumping on the telemarketing bandwagon now. They buy "scrubbed" phone lists, set up phone banks and start calling. There is the "special offer", or "we're in your neighborhood now." A good deal is offered and maybe you accept it. Truth is, you get what you pay for. The "good deal" will come with strings attached. Many of you may have already experienced this.
All of these marketing efforts are to get a foot in the door. Once again, that is not necessarily a bad thing. If the company has truly dedicated marketing dollars to reduce your introductory visit, then you may come out ahead. Generally, though, the person that visits is also a "commissioned sales agent" who will make little or no money unless they sell you something. There are no "good deals", only good companies that take an interest in their customers. Look for companies that have been around for a decade or two, that have no open complaints with either the Registrar or the BBB, that have an independent agency that monitors customer satisfaction, and has a dedicated place of business that you could visit if you wanted.
For more information please see the following links:
ACCA.org
NATE
J.R. Perkins TECHNICIANS
Our technicians are fully trained and certified by NATE (North American Technicians Excellence) and have the EPA certification to handle refrigerants. Attending TRANE's TECH ONE certification classes for 2 mo. is a must at J.R. Perkins before they become certified as a field service technician.
Our technicians are part of the J.R. Perkins Family, and are loyal and hard working employees that have been taught to care for the customer's needs! Each tech brings something different to the company and together they're a team achieving success!
AWARDS
TRANE distinguished dealer awards
Customer Care 100% SATISFACTION in 2004 and 2005
Outstanding dealer for Arizona for 4 years in a row
BBB Ethical Business Award
