How to Find a Reputable Heating Contractor Near You

Making your comfort our FOCUS!

Serving the Greater Salem, OR Area

Hot Deals!

See How You Can Qualify For A FREE Heat Pump, Furnace or A/C Unit! Call Now For Details!

Save Even More With Our Premier Program! Click Here!

Blog Layout

How to Find a Reputable Heating Contractor Near You

When the temperatures start to dip, having a reliable heating system is essential. Whether you're looking to install a new heater or need repairs on your existing one, finding a qualified heating contractor is crucial for ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable. In this post, we will explore some useful tips on how to find a reputable heating contractor near you, ensuring you make the right choice for your heating needs.

Research and Recommendations

One of the first steps in finding a quality heating contractor is to conduct thorough research. Start by asking friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals are often the most reliable source of good service. If someone you trust has had a positive experience with a contractor, there's a good chance you'll be satisfied with their service as well.

Online Reviews and Ratings

In this digital age, online reviews and ratings are invaluable resources when searching for a heating contractor. Websites like Yelp and Google can provide insights into a contractor's reputation and service quality. Look for contractors with consistently high ratings and positive feedback from previous customers. Read through the reviews to understand the common pros and cons mentioned by clients. What are some patterns you see throughout the reviews?

Certifications and Experience

It's important to ensure that the contractor you're considering is properly certified and has the necessary experience. Certifications and brand partnerships indicate that the contractor has met high industry standards. Here at Focus Heating & Cooling, we're proud to be a Ruud Pro Partner. This means that our contractors complete advanced technical training to ensure they give you the right recommendations based on each individual situation. We can also guarantee lower rates on Ruud products over other contractors.

Experience is another key factor. A contractor with a long track record is more likely to deliver reliable service. According to IBISWorld, a provider of market and industry statistics, there are 111,849 HVAC contractors in the U.S. as of 2023, an increase of 2.1% from 2022. Don't settle for anything less than the experienced professionals you deserve!

Installation Bids and Costs

Before making a final decision, be sure to obtain an estimate or installation bid. These will give you a better understanding of how to budget for your project and what goes into the final cost of your unique repair or replacement. Make sure to request a detailed breakdown of the elements involved in your estimate as well. Ask questions if anything is unclear. Your chosen contractor should be able to walk you through every step of the project process.

Licensing and Local Knowledge

Another critical step is to verify that the contractor is licensed and certified to do work in your home. If you're having trouble finding your contractor's license number, this could be a red flag. Our team at Focus Heating & Cooling is proud to be fully licensed by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB), giving our customers piece of mind that we only provide the professional, quality work that they deserve. Another key quality of the perfect contractor is their local knowledge. Here in Oregon, we have a unique climate, so it pays to have a local HVAC expert who knows about our weather patterns and cycles.

Communication and Transparency

Finally, one of the most important things to look for in a great local heating contractor is an open, friendly communication style. As a customer, you should never feel pressured into a sale. If you get a bad feeling about a certain business, move on to the next one. When it comes to keeping your home comfortable all year round, don't settle for subpar communication or ignored phone calls. You and your home deserve the best. Additionally, look for a business that is transparent and open about its credentials, costs, and fees. Transparency is a telltale sign of an honest, hard-working contractor.

Finding a reliable heating contractor near you doesn't have to be a daunting task. By doing thorough research, seeking recommendations, checking certifications, requesting estimates, and verifying insurance, you can ensure you hire a contractor who will provide high-quality service. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Taking the time to find the right contractor now can save you from potential headaches and ensure your home stays warm and cozy during the colder months. Are you looking for an excellent, friendly team of HVAC contractors in the Greater Salem, OR area? Call Focus Heating & Cooling today. We'd love to earn your business.

< Older Post Newer Post >

In Case of Frozen Heat Pump

By 7003135598 • January 17, 2025

If a heat pump is iced over, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent damage and restore efficient operation. Here are the steps you should take: 1. Turn on your Emergency heat on thrermostat or turn the system completely off. 2. The unit will manually defrost when it is above freezing outside. You can also use warm water to speed up the process, but avoid using sharp objects to chip away the ice, as this will damage the coils. 3. Check Airflow: Ensure that there is adequate airflow around the outdoor unit. Clear any debris, leaves, or snow that may be obstructing the airflow. Restricted airflow can cause the unit to freeze over. 4. Use Emergency Heat: If the heat pump remains frozen and you need immediate heating, switch to the emergency heat setting. This will activate the auxiliary heat source and bypass the outdoor unit. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? (You should call for service, This problem will not fix itself) Once the unit is thawed, this is a repair for professionals! Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services on all major brands. Give us a call or text today to get one of our amazing technicians out to care for your heating needs. Your comfort is our Focus! Focus Heating & Cooling 📞 Call or Text Us Today: (503) 563-8567 Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By following these steps, you can effectively address a frozen heat pump and restore its normal operation. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future freezing issues.

How to Change A Filter

By 7003135598 • January 17, 2025

Changing a filter in a generic air conditioning system involves a few straightforward steps, regardless of the specific brand or model. Here's a general guide to help you through the process: 1. Turn Off at the Thermostat: Before starting, ensure the system is turned off to prevent any air circulation while you change the filter. 2. Locate the Filter: The filter is typically located at the return air duct at the furnace or inside the air handler unit. It may be behind a grille or access panel. Or install in the return grill in the house. 3. Remove the Old Filter: Open the grille or access panel and carefully slide out the old filter. Take note of the filter's size and the direction of airflow, which is usually indicated by arrows on the filter frame. 4. Select the Correct Replacement Filter: Ensure you have the correct size and type of replacement filter. Filters come in various sizes and thicknesses, so it's important to match the new filter to the old one. 5. Write the date on the filter for easy reference on your next filter change. 6. Install the New Filter: Insert the new filter into the slot, making sure the airflow arrows point in the correct direction, towards the air handler or blower. 7. Secure the Filter: Close the grille or access panel securely to ensure the filter stays in place and the system operates efficiently. 8. Turn the Thermostat Back On: Once the new filter is installed, turn the system back on and check for proper operation. Regularly changing the filter, typically every 1-2 months depending on usage and filter type, helps maintain system efficiency and indoor air quality. A 4 inch thick filter can last as long as 6 months. Don’t Want to Do It Yourself? While changing air filters is a straightforward process, some people prefer to leave it to the professionals. If you'd rather not handle it yourself, or if you'd like a complete HVAC maintenance check, Focus Heating & Cooling is here to help! We provide expert HVAC services, including air handler maintenance, to keep your system running smoothly. Give us a call or text today to schedule a filter replacement or full maintenance service! Let us take care of your HVAC system, so you don’t have to! By staying on top of filter changes and regular maintenance, you’ll help your air conditioning system run efficiently, keeping your home comfortable and your air clean year-round.