How to be prepared for a service call because time is money.

Being prepared for a service call is something I would say happens maybe 20% of the time with my customers. Even with the best intentions, Unprepared customers can add waisted time, and costto their scheduled repairs.

Let’s try to save money and time: I am going to give you ways to be prepared, answer questions directly, and keep more of your money and lose more of your stress.

When contacting a service provider through phone or text message online, it is vital to have certain items in place for your appointment day.

A. Request an advance call of thirty minutes and be prepared to have someone meet the technician within thirty minutes of that advance call.

B. Make sure that if parts were ordered that they have arrived or you have them with the appliance and ready for technician.

C. Don't have an obstacle course sitting in front of the unit you want serviced. (Make sure the unit is emptied of clothing if possible, food if applicable, and plugged in and hooked up to what is needed to run it.)

For example, if you have a refrigerator that’s not cooling, and it unplugged when we arrive it would be very difficult to diagnose.

D. Get a written estimate, and make sure you understand what you are being told is wrong with your unit.

E. Ask the technician to tell you if parts were changed unless specially marked for core-charged return. This will assist you on any manufacturer defects warranty. .

F. Show some humanity (and practicality. Provide access to the unit, and to water, to bathrooms, towels, cardboard or a mat/towel to set tools on, a step stool if needed, and be aware of the location of the power shutoffs( breaker box).

All of these factors will contribute to a pleasant working environment. Keep the technician onsite, reduce phone calls, and travel expenditures, and save you time and money.