The annual inspection of your home heating system could do more than just ensure the equipment is in good repair; it could save your life. A faulty heating system can produce a build-up of carbon monoxide gas in your home and increase the risk of fire. Carbon monoxide can cause nausea, headaches and even death. The following information will help you make informed decisions.
Quick Tips
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. You can purchase them at most hardware stores. Make sure they are properly installed and are always working.
- Should you have a problem with your heating unit, check the owner’s manual to see if it’s still under warranty. If so, report the problem as soon as possible to the installer of the equipment. You may be required to hire a particular contractor or select from a list of recommended contractors.
- Be wary of special deals. If someone knocks on your door offering home heating inspection or repair services at prices lower than your regular supplier, you’d be wise to wonder why. Ask for recommendations from friends and neighbours.
- Ask home heating contractors for references and check them. Anyone qualified would be happy to provide you with references to compete for your business. Take the time to call other customers and be prepared to ask questions about the service.
- Get three written estimates before you make a commitment. Compare them carefully and note any special extras that may result in a higher price tag. Find out if the company has appropriate insurance coverage. Ask about the responsibility for clean up when the work is complete.
- Consider payment options. Keep deposits for the work to an absolute minimum. Include a contract clause that says the final payment will be contingent upon satisfaction with the work done.
- Read and understand the contract. Check that verbal representations, such as a warranty or workmanship guarantee, are written into the contract. Make sure the contract specifies the type of work to be done, the start and completion dates, and who will be doing the work. If you sign the contract in your home, make sure it meets with the disclosure requirements of the Consumer Protection Act, 2002 involving Direct Sales Contracts.
- Hire a registered home heating contractor. The ministry hears from consumers who hired people soliciting door-to-door to inspect and repair their home heating systems only to find out later the suppliers were unqualified. An untrained person who doesn’t do the work properly could put lives and property at risk. To check on credentials, make sure the contractor is registered with the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) before any work is done or a contract is signed. TSSA is an independent, non-government, not-for-profit organization that delivers fuel safety and other public safety programs and services on behalf of the ministry. Call the TSSA at (416)734-3300 or 1-877-682-8772.
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