Whether we’re at home or work, indoor air quality matters. In addition to safety, we expect our air handler systems to keep us comfortable on the coldest of nights and the hottest of afternoons. But today, the value placed on efficiency and sustainability is also top of mind for the building owner paying the utility bills, those using the indoor space, and larger society as well. With that in mind, it’s a great idea to rethink our preventative maintenance and air handler repair plans.

Here are some qualities to look for when hiring the right air handler repair service for your needs.

Expertly trained technicians

When it comes to maintaining our homes, businesses, and commercial spaces, it’s far from cliché to say, ‘you get what you pay for.’ The first step to ensuring you’ll get a great return on your investment is to ensure the technicians working with you are certified and trained up to the latest national standards and state-wide regulations around air handler repair practices. An expert technician can perform a thorough inspection to determine any challenges within the system and create the best maintenance and repair plan to keep everything running efficiently.

There are many moving parts to these systems, so entrusting an air handler repair pro ensures nothing is missed. This includes checking for any clogged filters, worn belts or motors, and inspecting all ductwork for air leaks requiring sealing or replacement. Depending on the system, its age, and other circumstances, the technician can suggest the best maintenance and repair plan if needed, as well as a suggested routine for scheduled follow-up inspections.

A great preventative maintenance plan for longevity

Those scheduled follow-ups become our preventative maintenance plan that actually saves money in the long run. By extending the air handler unit’s lifespan, more costly replacements are avoided. With a well serviced and maintained air handler unit, building owners and managers can expect it to last 20-25 years, possibly even longer. However, over that time, inefficiencies can pop up and go unnoticed, which causes increased expense, and eventually you experience decreased air quality and performance. In addition, air handler repair costs may rise if an issue is left unidentified and service is put off. Regular servicing helps avoid air flow issues as well as uneven temperatures throughout the space. Data suggests a great preventative maintenance plan can increase the longevity of an air handler unit by 15-to-20 years and those cost savings grow over each year replacement is avoided.

Respect for budgets and bottom lines

Professional air handler repair service companies have a great respect for the homeowner’s budget and the bottom line that commercial building owners must closely keep their eye on. These experts can best come up with a timeline that keeps their visits as spaced out as possible while also checking in regularly enough to keep maintenance costs down. This includes taking care of necessary routine cleaning, damage repairs, and replacing smaller parts as needed.

Repair professionals also understand the importance in efficient energy operation. In fact, should you notice increases in your monthly energy bills, it’s a strong sign it’s time to reach out to your trusted service provider. The air handler unit can contribute to up to 50 percent of the building’s energy use, so keeping it running optimally truly does make all the difference. Finally, professional air handler repair service providers help avoid, or drastically decrease, any business or revenue-impacting downtime associated with a full replacement.

Look for a history of excellent service and happy customers

If you don’t already have a trusted professional air handler repair service company in your contact list, it’s a great idea to form a relationship ahead of time. Scrambling in the face of a breakdown or emergency is simply never budget friendly. Look for companies that have great reviews, ask those around you for referrals, and simply connect with companies, ask questions, and let your instincts tell you if they’re right for your building maintenance requirements.

Excellent air handler repair providers are open about their technicians, programs including OSHA training, and certifications. They should openly report their compliance with all state regulatory standards, including NFPA, ASHRAE, the Joint Commission, EPA, and any other regulatory guidelines. Above all, they should welcome your questions and work to form a supportive relationship spanning beyond scoring a quick job and aims for the long term.