These are crazy times – Ottawa residents are social isolating, working from home, taking care of the kids who are out of class till who knows when (Education Minister Stephen Lecce says that the current 3-week school shutdown is likely to be extended due to the state of emergency), and doing our best to stay healthy.
Imagine if, in the middle of all that, your HVAC suddenly breaks down! Being cooped up with your nearest and dearest is already tense enough, but without heat — hot water or air conditioning, as the season moves on – it could be challenging indeed.
Can you get heating and cooling repair done in a way that is safe for all concerned? How?
Safety First – Some Practical Steps
Yes, as always you can count on Ottawa Home Services for emergency furnace, A/C or water heater repair and replacement. As an essential service dealing with residential maintenance, we are allowed to stay open despite the Ontario COVID-19 lockdown.
Here’s how we can work with you to put safety first during the COVID-19 pandemic:
1. Cleanliness and sanitization
Ottawa Home Services is being extra vigilant about our usual high standards of cleanliness at this time. We are scrupulously disinfecting our tools, equipment and vehicles. All our techs have a supply of hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, and foot covers. Any employee who is feeling unwell or who has any symptoms is required to stay home.
2. Virtual service
It’s never been easier to request a virtual consultation with us, as we provide a wide selection of options from Skype, Facetime, What’s App and even pictures. All consultations for new equipment are also being done virtually, to respect the rules of social isolating and to minimize face-to-face contact time. You can also talk with us about a virtual walkthrough of basic HVAC repairs, as well, if anyone in your household is — or may be — infected with the coronavirus.
3. Details, details
Do your best to describe the problem when you first get in touch with us. That way, when our tech comes to your home, he will be ready with the necessary equipment and parts, and can get right to work on a fast and efficient solution.
4. Clear the area
Minimize the number of people who come in contact with the technician. Kids and seniors, particularly, should stay in another room during the service call, as a commonsense safety measure. Make sure there is a clear path to the problem site.
5. Social distancing
The person who is dealing with the tech should be careful about the rules of social distancing, always keeping a distance of 6 feet between you. You may wish to put on a facemask before the pro arrives.
6. Cleanup
Make sure that the technician takes away all his tools and other materials from the job site. After he’s gone, disinfect any surfaces he might have touched; then wash your own hands thoroughly. At this point, your family will be able to come back into that part of the house.
7. Payment
Please handle payment for our service call by giving us your credit card number or making an Interac e-transfer. Prompt payment will ensure that we can continue to serve you professionally during this difficult time for all of us. We ask all customers to have their own pen ready to sign or fill out any paperwork needed.
We’re With You Even When Times Are Tough
The team at Ottawa Home Services cares about you and your comfort. Call us at 613-604-4777 for 24/7 emergency repair of heating, cooling, and water heaters.
Received a letter from Enbridge? Learn about the Open Bill Program and new payment process