When I got hired as a receptionist for an HVAC company, I wasn’t positive what the acronym stood for.
I knew very little about heating and cooling services.
I’ve now worked for the same company for nearly ten years. I’ve become very knowledgeable in furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, high-velocity units and VRFs. I can explain the different indoor air quality accessories, such as germicidal UV lights, air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers. I answer the phones and schedule new system installations, replacements, tune-ups and repairs. I also call customers who have enrolled in our maintenance plan to remind them when it’s time for seasonal service. I handle warranty requirements, inventory, dispatching the trucks for emergency repairs and make sure our technicians keep up with licensing, insurance, certifications and factory training updates. Because of my job, I’ve become much more conscientious about taking good care of my furnace and air conditioner. I never forget to replace the air filters and always make a point to arrange for upkeep in the fall and spring. The heating and cooling system installed at the office isn’t treated as well. Unfortunately, the technicians are typically too busy to provide a tune-up. The equipment is definitely showing signs of neglect. I’ve noticed a steady increase in energy bills even while comfort and air quality decline. The unit has begun to make a weird noise and struggles to keep up with demand on especially cold or hot days. I expect that the system will eventually fail, and I’ll need to insist that one of the technicians take the time to provide a repair.