First week of December (2018) our furnace went out. It was very cold during those days, so I had to act quickly on what to do, fix, replace, who to hire, all the stress that comes with these matters and dealing with HVAC contractors while they are at highest demand time of the year. I had unfavorable experiences in the past with HVAC contractors, either fail to fix the issue first time, inflate the invoice, or utter lack of communication. I called about 6 HVAC contractors that I googled online, BBB, etc., including Leading Edge. I asked each one for an estimate. I did my own homework searching on what brands would be better options, range of cost, etc. Four out of 6 requested to first inspect the furnace before submitting an estimate, and the others just gave me outright proposals. After the four in person inspections, I got estimates and time frame to replace (fixing was not a good option). As for time frames, all were after at least 10-15 days, except Leading Edge one week sooner, although their proposal was higher than the lowest one. The lowest one was by a credible HVAC shop, family owned, with many years in Madison, and I felt very comfortable when talking to the owner. I still called Leading Edge, because the model they included was rated a bit higher. Owner of Leading Edge, Mr. Jim Nichols, stated that, should I select them, he would replace the defective motor, next day, get the furnace operational, at NO COST, till the new furnace arrives the following week. That immediately won him a favorable standing in my proposal selection plan. I discussed with Mr. Nichols the other favorable proposal, the model, the options, and their cost. Contrary to what would one expect, i.e., trashing the other shop, he spoke highly of the their model, and of their business. But he pointed out why I should select him instead. Out of habit, I asked him if he would lower the final cost a little, and he agreed without back and forth discussion. I was still worried that it was just a bait, to get me in, then STUCK. It was a natural worry each homeowner unfortunately has from contractors, but Leading Edge proved me wrong as they went far beyond my highest expectations. Jim was always on time, had impressive communication lines, and he did an excellent, professional, clean work. Throughout the process, Mr. Nichols was responsive, flexible, and utterly professional. With this kind of experience, Leading Edge HVAC has won my trust (a rarity with contractors), and they can count on serving all my HVAC needs in the future. read more
