MISTAKE #1

Choosing a heating company based solely on glossy brochures and flashy sales talk.

No question, your heating company will appear to have all the tools to complete the job but they also needs something else, they need employees who are skilled at their work. Many companies employ engineers and supply them with the latest equipment, but very few companies teach their employees how to use them properly and regularly update their training to incorporate industry changes.

The best way to know that the heating company’s employees have been properly trained is to make sure they are appropriately registered. Before you choose a heating company, always check out their accreditations and certifications and looking at reviews on online platforms such as Trustatrader.

MISTAKE #2

Choosing a heating company based solely on a low price.

Low price could be a problem in three ways:

1) Low price can be the bait that attracts your phone call but once the company gets into your home they pressure you into a much more expensive job.

2) Low price can be for a package that is exclusive of controls or insulation. Rarely does the consumer know what this means and the total job could cost much more.

3) Low price could also mean a cheaper brand of boiler is installed which may not have as long a potential life.

MISTAKE #3

Choosing a heating company on a single telephone call.

Instead, invite the person to your home and always ask for a specific written quotation. Then you’ll know exactly what the heating contractor recommends – and you won’t be the victim of high-pressure tactics when the engineer steps into your living room.

MISTAKE #4

Choosing a heating company which doesn’t offer a comprehensive guarantee package.

In our view, every heating contractor should be fully accountable for its work. If you aren’t pleased with the job, you should have a point of contact you can raise your concerns with.

MISTAKE #5

Choosing a heating contractor without getting comments from their previous clients.

Any company can claim anything about their past jobs which may not be true. Make sure you read comments from recent customers on impartial sites such as RatedPeople and TrustaTrader.

MISTAKE #6

Choosing a heating contractor which isn’t accredited by organisations such as Gas Safe, OFTEC, NICEIC and MCS.

If your heating company is recommended, you may not know whether they have the knowledge or experience to install your heating system. You want to be sure you’re hiring a competent and professional company so check their qualifications and accreditations.

MISTAKE #7

Choosing a heating contractor which who isn’t at the cutting edge of current technology.

They should have:

1) honest, ethical business practices
2) current knowledge of the latest technical innovations in heating design
3) the highest possible level of customer service

You’re making a wise decision when you have your heating installed by such a company.