How should you choose the right heating repair contractor for your needs? If you're a first-time homeowner, take a look at the questions to ask right now.

What Type of Heater Do You Have?

There isn't just one type of home heater. Before you hire a new HVAC contractor, you need to make sure the technicians have expertise and experience repairing the type of system in your home. Some of the most common home heating systems include:

• Boilers. This option uses heated water and radiators to warm your home. A boiler uses either natural gas or oil as a fuel source.
• Forced air. A forced air heater does exactly what the name implies. This heater forces warmed air through ducts and into your home. Natural gas and electricity are the primary fuel sources for this option.
• Heat pumps. This heating/cooling system pulls heat from the air and moves it into another space. In the summer months it removes heat from your home and forces it outdoors, and in the winter the mechanism reverses. A pump is often used with another central heater.
• Ductless. If your home doesn't have air ducts, this system allows you to heat zones or spaces of your home without making major renovations.

Even though knowledge of your home's heating system is crucial, it isn't the only factor that should impact your HVAC contractor choice. The heating repair service company's general experience is a primary concern to consider before you select one professional for the job.

What Type of Experience Do You Expect?

How much experience is the just-right amount? There's no universal answer or magic number to look for. Instead of one set criteria, think about what type (or amount) of experience is important to you. This could include:

• Years of experience working in your local area. A contractor with several years of experience working in your local area shows a commitment to the community and continuity of service.
• Overall experience. Do you want a seasoned professional to repair or replace your furnace, boiler, or other type of heater? Decide how many years of experience are important to you.
• Type of experience. What type of experience does your would-be contactor have? An HVAC technician who has years of experience working in a commercial setting may not have the expertise necessary to repair your residential heating unit.

If you're not sure how much experience the HVAC contractor has, ask for references. Past customers can verify the company's heater repair experience in your area or in general.

Contact a company that provides heating repair services to learn more.