We all heavily rely on our home Heat and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, regardless of which season we’re in. They help us achieve a healthy and comfortable home by providing good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). Based on the latest research, Canadian residents now spend about 90% of their time indoors.
Keeping your equipment in perfect running conditions is the key to improve its efficiency and amplify its overall performance. That’s why as soon as the unit starts to act out, we ring HVAC service technicians to save us from distress.
You might have heard horror stories about having to go way over your budget when hiring an HVAC contractor. Some HVAC companies have been undermining the professional code of ethics and operating fraudulently. This article will act as a guide to ensure you don’t end up overspending on your HVAC system.
If the technician seems extra pushy and sounds too salesy, take a step back – you are about to get played! When the technician describes terrifying hypothetical scenarios and pressures you to buy stuff, do not cave in without giving it some thought. These intimidation tactics aim to drive you into availing more of their services.
To avoid being scammed, be acquainted with the things that your HVAC service provider does not want you to know.
Get a free quote from a reliable HVAC solution partner today
There are a few steps that you can do prior to getting their services. morConnect shares these useful HVAC troubleshooting tips before you call in the professionals. Fret no more as you can handle some concerns with your unit all by yourself.
- Inspect your air filter regularly and replace if needed. Mark the filter with dates so you can easily monitor when it is time to have it changed.
- Check if your power switches and breakers are turned on.
- Examine the vents of your HVAC unit for blockage. Make sure that all parts, including ducts and grills are clean and dust-free.
- Be certain that you have power. An unbalanced airflow could be the effect of an electricity outage.
- Change thermostat batteries. A lot of homeowners frequently miss this.
- Monitor the external unit. Brush off the outside dirt and debris such as leaves and twigs.
- Spot if the outside fan is running.
- Look out for faulty wirings. Loose, exposed, and clipped wires can impair your HVAC unit.
- Watch out for refrigerant and condensation leaks. Fixing this requires someone with refrigeration training. Properly record the details of any leaks that you found.
Having a basic background on the potential issues of your HVAC system can help you get ahead of your repairman. You can diagnose the simple and “obvious” problems with your unit without contacting a mechanic.
Do not let your HVAC service technician get the best of you. Protect yourself from these common traps.
Think twice about part replacement
There’s nothing wrong with admitting that you know little (or nothing!) about your equipment. The service technician may advise you to repair a part or replace it altogether when in fact, it is just working pretty well. The cost of part replacement is usually expensive, buying a new unit seems to be a more practical decision.
Be cautious if the technician flagged numerous defective parts. This is rarely the situation – oftentimes one faulty part could actually affect the functionality of the other parts. Acknowledge the findings of the technician but feel free to ask questions, perform your own research, seek second (and maybe third) opinions, and weigh all available options.
Thinking about upgrading your home? Sign up for a free in-home assessment.
Distance yourself from enchanting deals and offers
Do not get easily influenced by promising offers, discounts, and other kinds of promotions. Some HVAC technicians take advantage of homeowners who show even the slightest of interest and swindle you into purchasing something that you really do not need.
We are not advising you to shut your doors to all HVAC deals, but rather to sustain a reasonable level of suspicion so you can avoid unnecessary expenses.
Cast doubt on upfront cash payment
Upfront cash payment is not a requirement for HVAC companies to proceed with servicing your unit. There is no apparent reason why they should demand it in the first place. If there is a written policy about it, read the terms thoroughly before making any payment.
Avoid being attracted to “free” HVAC service
Remember, there is no such thing as free services or discounted inspections. Make an informed decision by getting as many resources as you can – get free quotations, compare pricing, evaluate alternatives, and check reviews and feedback.
Keep in mind that your AC unit need not to be recharged
Your residential air conditioning unit does not need to be recharged. A company that tries to begin billing you for refrigerant “recharging” is being dishonest. If your AC is low on refrigerant, then it is because of a leakage. The technician should be able to take care of that instead of recharging the unit.
Allowing your HVAC technician to fill in or to “recharge” your equipment does not really fix the problem. Chances are, you will demand recurring service calls. This will eventually imbalance your home maintenance and repair fund.
Now, what are the actionable steps that you can take to prevent getting trapped in the cycle of HVAC scams?
There are candid ways to avoid being tricked:
- Establish trust with your HVAC service provider. If you know the technician well enough, you won’t be so skeptical of his/her recommendations and findings.
- Make the provided services official through writing. A written agreement will safeguard your claims in case you have to file for a legal case.
- Seek a second opinion from experts and other HVAC companies.
- Beware of tricks of overcharging and overpricing.
How do you protect yourself from HVAC scams? We’re looking forward to hearing from you below!
Are you looking for an HVAC service provider that you can trust? Explore morConnect’s services, go to morconnect.ca or ring us today at 1-888-880-0480.