What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
We are about relationships and service. Every visit starts by listening to our clients and trying to understand their issues and needs. Based on those conversations we provide straight-forward, custom tailored options to fit your needs, desires, budget ,and timeline. There’s no pressure to buy, you decide what is right for you. We’re there to help and provide solutions that make your life a little bit more comfortable.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Appointment: We schedule a visit that works best for the client. We want to provide the proper time to perform a thorough diagnostic/inspection/estimate.
Ice Breaker: Upon arrival the technician introduces himself (and our team, if applicable). We spend a few minutes to get to know the client. During that time we ask questions to understand the issue, symptoms, and details of the situation.
Inspection: Once the technician understands the client’s issue, they perform a thorough and comprehensive inspection to find the cause of the issue. In the case of an estimate, they evaluate the entire living space and the habits of the client.
Debrief: After diagnosing the issue the technician sits down with the client to share his findings. They walk the client through the issue and the symptoms. For estimates, the tech will design several systems that meet the client’s needs and explain each one. This is also the time when they will field all questions.
Options: This is the time when the client chooses an option that works for them.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Almost 30 years of hands on diagnostic, repair and installation of HVAC systems, both commercial and residential. This includes working knowledge of many different equipment types and brands.
California HVAC License: Pass the exams and certification process for the State of California.
EPA License: Certification to properly handle refrigerants.
Ongoing training through dealer and manufacturer classes. This provides training on the latest equipment and technology.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I’ve been doing this since I was 13 years old. Most mostly on and off, but off and on since I was 13 years old. I'm 42 now so that my math there would be you know, I think I'm 29 years or so, give or take a couple of months.My brother-in-law taught me this trade. I was in attics and crawl spaces where my brother didn't fit. It was small, small guys, small fry, and I was able to get in there and, get whatever needed to be done. Typically, it was duct work and lifting heavy stuff. That's pretty much all in there for the the first few summer as well. When I was out of school, I was working. Most of my friends were on vacation with their their family or doing sports. And I'm thankful for that. I was able to learn a trade from my brother-in-law and I owe my ability to make a living that I enjoy today.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Owner occupied
Tenants
Landlords
Property Managers
Realtors
Business Owners
All socio-economic groups
All ages
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
Recently, we’ve helped several clients replace their old gas furnace and condenser system with new heat pump air systems. These new heat pump systems provide a host of benefits to our clients. These include: energy efficiency, cost savings, versatility, environmental impact, consistent comfort, and many more. All these great benefits help our clients breather better, save money, protect the environment, and release them of the worries of breakdowns. The best part, is that many times these replacements can be done in one day and therefore minimize disruption to their daily routines. We’re all about service and relationships and these heat pump projects are great for everyone.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Provide details about their issue or needs. The more details they provide the better the probability of correctly identifying the issue and getting a solution. For estimates, it increase their chance of purchasing a system that matches with their lifestyle and habits
Make sure the service provider is qualified, knowledgeable, and reputable.
Make sure you the service provider is giving you a full explanation about the issue, the solution and the invoice
Ask questions. It helps you make an informed decision. A qualified technician can answer all your questions and reinforces that he can perform the work as promised.
Look beyond pricing. Nothing is worse than making a decision based of cost only to get a repair or installation that done wrong. In the end it may be more headache, cost more money and require more time.
Ask what guarantees and warranties the provider offers. At Straight Shooter, we guarantee our work and service. We value our relationship with you over the money. We want to be your go-to-team and that requires earning your trust.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
What are your findings? And please explain them to me. (Repair work)
What is your experience with this equipment/installation? Is there a similar example that demonstrates this knowledge?
How do I contact you if there is an issue? Who would I be speaking to if I call that number?
What kind of guarantees or warranties do you offer? Who would do the warranty work?
What are the warranties on equipment and labor?