The July 10 NBC-TV “Today Show” hidden-camera report may not have been very favorable to HVAC contractors, but one industry group is heralding its recommendations.

The investigation had six HVAC technicians visit a New Jersey home where an otherwise working air conditioner’s wire had been broken - a simple, inexpensive fix. All six of the technicians who visited the home missed the problem and suggested expensive, unnecessary repairs.

As part of the story, reporter Jeff Rossen urged homeowners to seek companies that employ North American Technician Excellence-certified staff - a recommendation that pleased Don Frendberg, chairman of the association’s board of trustees.

“Although the subject matter of this segment is alarming, this issue is the background for why NATE exists - to verify the competency and conduct of NATE-certified technicians and consequently the air conditioning contractors who employ them,” Frendberg said.  “As we continue our consumer awareness efforts, which are designed to help elevate the industry, we hope to educate as many homeowners as we can about the importance of working with qualified contractors who employ NATE-certified technicians.”