Choosing a cooling tower consultant in NYC requires careful consideration to ensure you select a qualified and reliable professional. Here are some steps you can take to make an informed decision:
1. Define Your Needs:
Clearly identify the specific services you need from the cooling tower consultancy, whether it is conducting compliance inspections, weekly water testing, certification(s), water management plan(s), providing a mobile platform for records, and/or providing hands on approach to all electronic compliance with local regulations.
2. Credentials and Experience:
Verify the consultants and consultancy’s credentials, expertise, and certifications (it is highly recommended that the consultancy have a Certified Water Technologist on staff). More importantly, look for a consultancy that has consultants that have been trained by experts who have actually conducting water treatment for cooling tower water systems, have assisted in preventing the spread of Legionella bacteria within a commercial and residential setting, and understand the local regulations set by the NYC Department of Mental Health and Hygiene (Bureau of Environmental Sciences and Engineering).
3. Reputation and References:
Research the consultant and consultancy’s reputation in the industry. Here are some specific questions to ask:
a. Are the consultants flexible (open minded) and have an already set working relationship with the building’s water treatment company?
b. Is the consultancy and the consultants local? More specifically, can someone from the consultancy be at your location within 1 hour?
c. Ask for a list of clients and then randomly call some of their clients and ask your questions; learn about their communication style and transparency with their reporting. A great consultant should be readily available to visit with you and capable of explaining complex concepts in a way that you understand. Ultimately, they should be able to anticipate cooling tower violations.
4. Cost and Budget:
Obtain detailed cost estimates for the services you require. Compare these estimates with your budget and ensure that the consultant provides a clear breakdown of costs. Be wary of significantly lower prices that may indicate a lack of expertise or quality.
5. Insurance and Liability:
Verify that the consultant has appropriate insurance coverage. This includes professional liability insurance to protect against errors or omissions in their work.
6. Contract and Terms:
Review the consultant’s contract carefully. Pay attention to terms, deliverables, timelines, and any warranty or guarantee policies. Seek clarification on any unclear points before signing.
By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can choose a cooling tower consultant in NYC who meets your specific needs and ensures the optimal performance and compliance of your cooling tower system.
