Chicago HVAC Repair Professionals Discuss Common Industry Scams
While it may not have seemed like it lately, heating season is in full swing. With temperatures going below zero in the next few days Chicago HVAC repair companies will be very busy. However, while most heating and cooling companies are honest, as with any industry, there are a few bad eggs out there. These companies look to take advantage of uneducated consumers during there times of need, such as a furnace breakdown in the dead of winter. To help guard yourself from falling victim to scams, check out our tips below.
- “Take Advantage of our FREE Inspection”: Many dishonest Chicago HVAC repair scammers employ a FREE inspection racket. You will be either contacted by a telemarketer, or a door-to-door sales person, informing you that their company is in your neighborhood and would like to give you a complimentary inspection of your furnace. Once in your home, they will inform you that you have some sort of catastrophic problem. This results in an unnecessary and expensive repair, or replacing your perfectly good furnace.
- Unbelievably Low Prices: Wow! What a deal! If you are looking to install a new furnace and the company gives you a price that is too good to be true, it probably is. Many Chicago HVAC repair scams involve telling you that your unit needs to be replaced. The scammer will give you an insanely low price, and perform a “bait and switch”, or tell you that your installation involves more than the stated price. Often times, you will not receive a written estimate, or they will ask for a large down payment up front. When the work is performed, if at all, the equipment is subpar or the installation may not be to code.
How To Avoid A Chicago HVAC Repair Scam
As with most things in life, you will have to educate yourself in order to not be taken advantage of. You never get something for nothing, and if a deal is unbelievable, don’t believe it. Any time a Chicago HVAC repair company tells you that you need work performed after an inspection, it is always a good idea to get a 2nd opinion. Polar Heating and Air Conditioning offers a FREE Second Opinion for all customers with a written estimate from another company. So be sure to get all offers in writing. Also, perform a background check on any company that enters your home. A quick glance at Yelp, google, Angie’s List, or any other review site, and you should be able to get a good idea of the company’s business practices. You will also be able to tell if they are even a company at all. If you are interested in receiving a free 2nd opinion, contact us today!
