North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, certification is the most coveted designation when it comes to heating, cooling and plumbing, and once you find out why, you’ll never again settle for a contractor who doesn’t have NATE certification. Here’s why homeowners value it:
It’s independent
As the only independent testing organization in the U.S., the NATE program is backed by organizations across the industry, including manufacturers, contractors, utility companies and the like.
It means something
NATE isn’t obliged to prove that a product works — which is what a lot of other testing credentials prove. Instead, NATE has the freedom to really test candidates on the gamut of knowledge a technician should have, not just on how a specific product or brand works.
Its testing is rigorous
The testing process involves a series of examinations. First, technicians must pass a general test, and then choose a specialized test, choosing from either service or installation — or both. And technicians must also choose at least one area of specialty from the following:
- Air conditioning
- Heat pumps
- Furnaces
- Air distribution
- Hydronics
- Refrigeration
- Efficiency
As a result, you can ask for a NATE-certified technician with a service specialty in furnaces to meet your specific needs, if you require service for your gas furnace.
It requires renewal
Once a technician is awarded NATE certification, that’s not the end of the story. The badge only lasts five years. Then, technicians must retest. This not only keeps candidates up to date on technological advancements, but it also helps to recognize their ongoing knowledge and expertise.
The numbers back it up
Customers agree that using a NATE technician is beneficial. It generally results in:
- Getting the job done right, the first time (fewer callbacks)
- Better energy savings
- Improved service
- Increased customer satisfaction
- More efficient HVAC equipment
Using a technician with NATE certification goes a long way toward increasing the value of your equipment, extending its life span, increasing your overall energy savings, and giving you a more than satisfactory customer service experience. For expert help from a NATE-certified technician, call your local Edwardsville service professionals at Ernst Heating & Cooling. We’re confident in our abilities as NATE-certified technicians, and we know you will be, too.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about NATE certification and other HVAC topics, visit our blog.
Ernst Heating & Cooling services Hamel, Illinois and the surrounding areas.
| Customer Service image via Shutterstock |