Like any other profession, the HVAC industry has gained a bad reputation in recent years, thanks to opportunistic and crooked HVAC contractors. They tend to take advantage of people in vulnerable situations.
Similar to any other mechanical work, the professionals will have a clear advantage over the customer as most people won’t know anything about the internal workings of machines.
Read More: What Does Your HVAC Contractor Know That You Don’t?
Some shady companies or individual contractors are sharp enough to capitalize on the situation. They’ll charge more than the actual amount for repair, installation, or the maintenance of heating & cooling systems and other related equipment.
Complaints of monetary frauds and below-the-par services have made people skeptical about which company or contractor to hire for their heating and cooling system installation, repair, or maintenance activities.
Fortunately, some clear signs and characteristics can help you distinguish between real professionals and some novice crooked contractors and companies. Some of these are highlighted in the following blog. So read and enhance your knowledge and save yourself by getting ripped off by some crooked HVAC contractors.
Common Ways To Avoid Being Ripped Off By An HVAC Contractor
Heating and cooling systems require regular maintenance and repair activities. Moreover, air conditioner installation plays an important role in their efficient functionality. However, when you buy a new system or have to call in a professional in an emergency, you can become a soft target for people waiting to capitalize on others’ vulnerable situations. Thus, it is important to avoid such black sheep in the market and contact trustworthy HVAC professionals.
Fortunately, there are some pointers and signs that can help you avoid such unscrupulous HVAC agents. Some ways to avoid getting scammed include:
Learning To Recognize Scams
Scammers are one of the most intelligent and sweet-spoken people you will ever encounter. They are well-equipped with all kinds of tricks and scam options to apply to unsuspecting customers. Knowing how to spot and tackle such scams can save you a lot of time and money.
Here is a list of some of the things you can look out for to avoid being scammed.
- Don’t blindly trust what an HVAC representative is saying, when in doubt, it is always better to get a second opinion.
- Make sure your HVAC reps have company uniforms and vehicles.
- Always check the registration status of the HVAC company.
- Never buy used spare parts or machine components.
- Ask relevant questions about the diagnosed problem and alternative solutions.
- Ask the cost and get it finalized before proceeding with the repair or installation process. (the easiest scam is to increase the price when the work is halfway done).
Do Some Research
Social media and other digital platforms are compacting the world. You can use these platforms to get to know the ground reality about the services provided by the selected HVAC company. Hence, little due diligence can help you avoid scams and contact a professional, honest, and trustworthy company for your furnace, air conditioner, water heater repair, and maintenance.
Incessant Maintenance And Repairs
If your contractor is visiting frequently to repair and maintain your heating or cooling appliances, this could be noted as a clear sign that you may be dealing with a dishonest company. So, if you find yourself pondering why your appliances are breaking down frequently despite being within their working-life span, it is high time to change the technician you are turning to help for.
Experience And Qualifications
Heating and cooling systems are complex mechanical devices. Any minor problem can turn them off and cost you heavy repairs. Therefore, only allowing qualified professionals to deal with your appliances reduces the chances of machine damage and recurring breakdowns and repair requirements. So make sure:
- Not to hire an HVAC contractor with no visible qualifications
- Ask for certifications and registration numbers
- Do some research and determine the experience a company has in dealing with similar appliances and problems to what your HVAC system is facing.
About Us
Nor-can Heating & Air has been in the field for many years now. We have a team of competent and qualified heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system experts to keep your home environment comfortable and healthy throughout the year. We provide trustworthy and professional installation, repair, and maintenance services for HVAC systems in Edmonton. To get in touch with us, click here.
