A group interested in developing standards for excellence in the HVAC/R industry got together in Arlington, Virginia, in 1997. The result was North American Technician Excellence, Inc. (NATE). It provides the opportunity for candidates to "earn installation and/or service certification in nine specialty areas: air-conditioning, air distribution, heat pumps, gas heating, oil heating, hydronic gas, hydronic oil, commercial and light commercial refrigeration and senior efficiency analyst."

This non-profit certification program for technicians in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry is the only one supported by the entire industry in both the United States and Canada. Certification is granted through a variety of programs throughout the two countries and is conscientiously overseen by an industry dedicated to self-improvement and a consistently high quality of service.

In January of 2009 NATE launched its extensive website, which is designed as a ready resource for homeowners and business owners. Here, they find answers to questions about installation and maintenance of their equipment. Various "dedicated" sections address frequently asked questions (FAQs) about heating and cooling issues with answers written in layman's terms.

One of the most valuable features of the new site is its Consumer Contractor Connection (C3). This locator provides a directory for consumers looking for nearby "residential and/or light commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration contractor that employs a high percentage of NATE-certified technicians." The site also provides maps showing Quality Circle Contractors. This information is valuable because the award-winning contractors maintain a crew of at least 80 percent NATE certified technicians.

Of additional value is the feature allowing contractors to update information as needed. That translates into up-to-date data available for business or residential consumers.

In addition to checking out the NATE website, find out how long any company you are considering has been in business. Ask to speak with a couple of their customers to get feedback. Most reputable companies of any standing have a list of satisfied customers willing to tell you about their experience with that firm. Get in touch with the Better Business Bureau to check out their track record. If they have any unresolved complaints hanging around - run the other way.

Word of mouth advertising is one of the most reliable methods of advertising around - and for good reason. People vote with their continued patronage - or not. Unless you found the company in a phone book or online, someone probably recommended it to you. Ask what he or she liked about doing business with that firm and then do your own homework.

Bardi Heating and Air conditioning is an Atlanta area HVAC contractor specializing in design and installation of air conditioning systems for residential and commercial projects of any size. Bardi only employs NATE certified hvac technicians To learn more their services please visit website.