When that work deals with your home's plumbing, heating or cooling system, it takes on even more meaning since your family's health, safety and comfort are involved.

So, when the time comes to call a plumbing, heating or cooling contractor, make sure you choose a trained, full-time professional and not just a "handyman" that does this type of work on the side.

Regardless of whether you're modernizing an entire system or simply need a repair, one of the easiest ways to find a qualified contractor is to choose one that is a member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association (PHCC).

PHCC members are professionals who are dedicated to using the latest technology, promoting energy and water conservation, and following all health and safety regulations. Their membership in the association also illustrates their commitment to their industry and their profession.

There are a number of ways to locate PHCC contractors:

1. Look for the PHCC logo.
   
   Contractors who are members often display the logo on everything from their yellow page and newspaper ads to the sides of their trucks.

2. Contact the state or local PHCC association in your area. The national association is comprised of numerous state and local affiliates. Simply contact the chapter nearest you and ask for referrals. State and local chapters are listed on the insert of this brochure.

3. Find a Member Click on your state, type in your zip code and complete the necessary information, and the name of your nearest PHCC contractors will appear.

   

• Ask for references. Homeowners for whom the contractor has previously worked are excellent sources of information. Ask the contractor for names of customers in the area. Contact those people and ask their opinion of the contractor's work.
  
• Check reputation. Call the local Better Business Bureau. Have any complaints been filed against the contractor?
  
• Inquire about stability. How long has the contractor been in business? Ask about the firm's experience and the expertise of its staff.
  
• Check local licenses. Many states and towns require that plumbing, heating and cooling contractors be licensed to ensure that all health, safety and building codes are followed. If that's the case where you live, ask the contractor for his or her license number, or call the Building Inspection and Licensing Department at City Hall. Confirm insurance credentials. Ask to see proof that the contractor has both liability and workmen's compensation insurance. If the contractor doesn't, you could be liable for any accidents on your property, including injury to the technician.
  
• Check into building permits. Most localities require a building permit for large home improvement projects. Contact your local licensing or permit department to see if you need one for your project. Make this call before the work begins.
  
• Request an estimate. To get an idea of the overall cost, ask for an estimate. Remember, however, that choosing a contractor should be based on more than just the lowest estimate. Quality of work counts too.
  
• Ask about the PHCC Professional Product Line. PHCC member contractors can offer and install a professional-grade line of products called the PHCC Professional Product Line. This line offers consumers the choice of a quality product that can be conveniently purchased in the comfort of their home or business.
  
• Look into service agreements. Many contractors also offer service agreements that provide periodic check-ups of your plumbing, heating or cooling system. The cost of such a contract is usually worthwhile, especially in terms of peace of mind since these inspections can often prevent major emergencies.

Your home's plumbing, heating and cooling systems are important to your family's health, safety and comfort. Don't gamble with them by selecting a contractor by chance.

A free brochure on how to choose a professional contractor is available by calling PHCC at 1-800-533-7694, or writing to PHCC at 180 S. Washington Street, P.O. Box 6808, Falls Church, VA 22046.

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors - National Association 180 S. Washington Street P.O. Box 6808 Falls Church, VA 22046 Phone: (800)533-7694    (703)237-8100 Fax: (703)237-7442 E-mail:naphcc@naphcc.org Web site:http://www.naphcc.org

Contact the PHCC office in your state
for a member listing.