Commercial refrigeration equipment often requires extensive repair or replacement services. Hiring the wrong technician can result in expensive losses and unsatisfied customers.
The labor pool for skilled technicians is shrinking. That’s why HVAC businesses need to be creative when hiring. Here are some old-school and new tactics to consider.
1. Look for Experience
When hiring a refrigeration mechanic, look for one with a lengthy track record and plenty of positive customer reviews. Be wary of “pop-up” businesses that request upfront payment and never complete the work. In addition, verify that the company has valid business licenses, worker’s compensation insurance and general liability insurance before you hire.
During your interview, ask candidates about their previous experience. You can also test their technical abilities by asking them to give examples of mechanical and gas failures and by assessing their diagnostic techniques. Another important question is how they handle clients who are reluctant to invest in equipment upgrades or replacements because of cost concerns. This question helps you evaluate a candidate’s ability to negotiate with customers and determine whether or not they will be a good fit for your company.
Refrigeration mechanic Geelong is highly trained and experienced. They work safely and wear the appropriate protective gear to avoid injuries. They also know how to use tools and equipment properly. In most regions, refrigeration mechanics are required to be certified before they can perform any work. This certification process typically involves classroom studies and on-the-job training with a mentor, called a journeyperson. In some areas, certification is voluntary but strongly encouraged as it tells employers and other workers that the technician is competent in his or her field of expertise.
2. Ask for References
Even the best, most sophisticated commercial refrigeration equipment encounters problems from time to time. You can minimize these problems by doing your research and hiring a reputable technician. A well-trained service tech can save you from costly repairs and equipment replacement down the road.
When interviewing a potential HVAC technician, ask for a list of client references that you can call to discuss their experience with the professional. This information can give you valuable insights into the quality of their work, their communication skills, and the level of customer care they provide. You can also learn how well they follow through on their promises and quotes and whether they complete jobs in a timely manner.
It’s also important to verify that the HVAC contractor is licensed and insured. A reputable company should be willing to show you their license number and various insurance credentials, including liability and worker’s compensation. These are requirements set by most states for contractors who perform work on customers’ homes or businesses.
A common mistake people make when checking references is relying too heavily on testimonials from other clients. These are often curated and may not reflect the full range of experiences. Don’t ignore red flags, either; consistent negative feedback can be a warning sign that the service technician is unreliable or inexperienced.
3. Be Flexible
Refrigeration is a critical business tool for many companies, especially restaurants and hospitals. It’s a vital machine that keeps medicines, tests and supplies in perfect condition to prevent unforeseen mishaps. Therefore, it’s important to hire a refrigeration service that understands your needs and can help you double-check the equipment for any malfunctioning parts or issues that may arise from time to time.
When looking for HVAC repair professionals, you should be flexible and willing to pay a little extra to find the best technicians. This will help you avoid the headaches that come with hiring unlicensed, unscrupulous contractors. Make sure to ask your prospective HVAC pro for their state license number and various professional certifications, as well as proof of insurance. Licensed HVAC professionals must be insured to perform work inside homes, and you should also check whether they have worker’s compensation and general liability insurance.
It’s also a good idea to look for technicians who are willing to work as part of a union. You’ll get to enjoy great benefits and coverage that you won’t have with most private companies. This includes healthcare and retirement benefits, which are both very important for people who have been working for a long time. If you want to attract and retain the top talent, consider offering flexible overtime as well. HVAC software like ServiceTitan can help you manage overtime and other field staffing concerns in a way that maximizes profitability and enables your employees to work when they are most productive.
4. Get It in Writing
The right refrigeration technician can make or break a business. A malfunctioning refrigerator can cause food spoilage, lose sales revenue, and cost a company thousands in lost supplies, tests, medicines, and other items and equipment. If the fridge is used for medical purposes, a malfunction can even put patients at risk.
The job description should communicate a clear picture of what the day-to-day duties and responsibilities will be. Ideally, a job post should also include additional information, like an overview of your company, work hours, and wages. This information can help you narrow down the pool of candidates for your HVAC position, making the hiring process easier and more efficient.
When interviewing potential refrigeration mechanics, ask how they would handle a tough customer situation. For example, if the fridge isn’t functioning properly because of a complex problem that requires more testing and tinkering, an honest repair person will tell the customer what to expect instead of trying to sell them something they don’t need.
Hiring a refrigeration mechanic for your HVAC company can ensure that your refrigerators and freezers are running at optimal levels to reduce your energy costs, save money on food spoilage, and prevent expensive repairs and replacements. By following these tips, you can find a great refrigeration mechanic to help your business grow and thrive.
