3 REASON TO WORK WITH A NATE-CERTIFIED AC TECHNICIAN
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With the growing popularity of money-saving DIY projects, there are many things you can learn to do as a homeowner, without hiring a professional. Or, you may think you can save some money and use a cheaper option, such as a handyman or other non-certified technician.
While it is acceptable to handle basic maintenance tasks for your HVAC unit, such as changing the air filter or running bleach water through piping to clear out mould, any major installation, repair, or service should be left to a technician. However, not all technicians are created the same; you should be using a NATE-certified HVAC technician.
What Is A NATE Certified Technician?
NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence, and it is the nation’s largest nonprofit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technicians. NATE tests are designed to represent real-world situations to test the working knowledge of HVACR technicians and validate professional competency. Working with a NATE-certified technician ensures you are receiving the highest quality of knowledge and competency when it comes to your HVAC unit.
Below are three reasons why you should use a NATE-certified technician when it comes to installing, repairing, or servicing your HVAC unit:
Quality of Service
Improper installation of your HVAC unit can lead to wasted energy. Improper installation can come if you attempt to install it yourself or use a “technician” who doesn’t have proper credentials. Not only will you have wasted time and energy, but a professional technician will also have to come out and re-install the system. Improper installation can reduce your system’s efficiency by as much as 30 per cent. This cancels out any money you tried to save by installing it yourself or with someone who cuts corners. Make sure to leave HVAC installation and repairs to a professional NATE-certified technician.
Experience
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Many issues can come up with an HVAC unit, ranging from harmless nuisances to major problems that can cause health problems or property damage. A NATE-certified technician has a large wealth of real-world knowledge to properly assess and address any problems your system might have. To receive the full NATE certification, the technician has to have two or more years of HVACR experience. To pass the NATE certification test, the technician is required to pass a core exam as well as an installation or service exam. Other certifications may not require this rigorous testing.
High Workmanship Standards
While technicians have to have experience and a high level of knowledge to pass the certification test in the first place, their education doesn’t stop there. To ensure there’s a continuing level of quality, knowledge, and service by the technician, NATE requires technicians to re-certify every two years. For a technician to qualify, they have to submit at least 16 continuing education hours, or they have to re-take a speciality part of the exam.
All of these are great reasons to work with a certified NATE technician. But the most important reason to hire a NATE-certified technician for your home’s HVAC needs is to ensure your home is getting the best care possible.
