Unfortunately, every industry has their share of scam artists and dishonest individuals who want to take honest homeowners’ money without doing quality work. The HVAC industry is no stranger to scams. The key to avoiding getting caught up in one of these tricks is to recognize what the most common HVAC scams are and work to avoid them.
3 Most Common HVAC Scams
There are a number of common scams that shady HVAC companies will try to run on unsuspecting homeowners. Don’t become a victim. Get to know the 3 of the most common HVAC scams and how to avoid them:
Scam #1: A salesperson pressures you into buying things without explaining their use or benefits.
How to Avoid: Some HVAC salespeople will try to throw around lingo and specialized terminology in an attempt to confuse the homeowner and get them to buy things that they don’t need. This often happens when companies try to push large, oversized units on homes that do not need a large unit to meet their cooling needs. The best way to avoid this scam is by doing your homework. First, research the HVAC company you are working to make sure they are reputable. You can start by looking at their Better Business Bureau rating and online reviews from previous customers. Then, once an HVAC specialist has recommended heating and cooling equipment and products for your home, take the time to research the products before handing over your credit card.
Scam #2: The HVAC technician charges you for parts that were not actually replaced.
How to Avoid: Sometimes dishonest technicians or scammers will say that you need parts replaced when you do not. They will pretend to replace the part and then take your money for the replacement. Other times, they will say that they have replaced a part without replacing it, leaving you to need more costly repairs just a short while later. The best way to avoid this scam is to ask for the old part ahead of time. By providing you with the old part that they have replaced you can ensure that the technician has done the work they say they have as well as get a second opinion on the part if necessary.
Scam #3: The HVAC service person tells you that you need an HVAC tune-up once a month.
How to Avoid: HVAC tune-ups help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. By making sure that your system is clean and well-lubricated, the HVAC technician can prevent unnecessary repairs during a tune-up. Though it is important to regularly maintain your heating and cooling system, it is not common or recommended to get a tune-up once a month. You only need to get a tune-up once a year, though some homeowners like to get them once before every season, especially if their system is older or it has been used more than often during a particular season.
Here at Air Quality Heating & Air Conditioning we have worked hard to earn the trust of our community. Through quality service and an emphasis on customer service, we have earned a positive reputation as one of the best HVAC companies in the area. If you want to avoid HVAC scams, contact us to work with a qualified and trusted HVAC expert.