When you have work done on your house, you literally have to live with the result.

When that work deals with your home's comfort system, it takes on even more meaning since your indoor environment is involved.

So, when the time comes to repair, replace or add a central air conditioning system to your home, take extra time and care in choosing your dealer. It could make a big difference.

In some cases, you may already have a preference for a certain manufacturer of air conditioners based upon a favorable experience or that of a friend or neighbor. In that case, look for a dealer that sells and installs that particular brand.

Tell the dealer of any problems you've experienced with your current system, such as hot or cold spots or high humidity, so he can evaluate your comfort needs. Also, look at a total comfort system, including outdoor unit, indoor unit, air cleaner and thermostat.

Most people take for granted the comfort provided by their central air conditioner, heat pump or furnace until something goes wrong and the unit needs to be serviced or replaced. When this happens, you need a quality heating, ventilating and air conditioning/refrigeration (HVACR) contractor who is knowledgeable, skilled and qualified to do the job.