Planning an energy-efficient renovation that will help you save on home and/or business expenses? The best way to get the most out of your time and money is to start by doing your research. Schedule consultations with contractors — they’ll be able to tell you if you can save by refurbishing what you already have, or need to buy new equipment and appliances.
Chris Burns, chair of the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning System Mechanics Trade Board for the Ontario College of Trades says getting the results you want may be as quick and simple as tuning up the equipment currently sitting in your own home.
“When considering retrofitting or replacing a refrigeration or air conditioning system, always consult a certified refrigeration and air conditioning systems mechanic for advice,” Burns recommends. “In some cases, your current system may be designed to operate efficiently and might just require regular maintenance.”
It’s also important to keep in mind that if any of the work involves one of Ontario’s 22 compulsory trades, the tradesperson you’re hiring must have a valid certificate of qualification from the college. This certificate can easily verified using the college’s online Public Register.
“I encourage everyone to inquire before they hire in order to make informed decisions,” says Bob Onyschuk, the college’s director of compliance and enforcement. “The goal of the Public Register is to prevent problems before they arise and give people the tools to protect themselves, their families and their businesses.”
Verify the tradesperson you’re planning on hiring by typing in their name or eight-digit number found on their membership card or certificate of qualification at collegeoftrades.ca.
www.newscanada.com
Attention editors: This article is for distribution in Ontario only.
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