Unfortunately, HVAC scams are more common than we would like to believe. Scammers are ready to take advantage of homeowners who need HVAC services. They may know the language and sound like professionals, but there are some red flags you can watch for that can indicate a scam.
Instead, give our team a call when you need air conditioning repair in Alachua, FL. We can help with all of your HVAC needs, big and small. You can even just give us a call when you have questions about something unusual happening with your air conditioner and aren’t sure whether or not you need to schedule service. Keep reading to learn more about HVAC scams and how you can avoid them.
Upfront Payments
When you schedule an HVAC service you should never have to pay in full before the job has even been started. It’s especially concerning if a technician requests that you make a cash payment for work ahead of time. Reputable HVAC companies and contractors may ask for a deposit instead to schedule the service.
This is completely normal and helps to protect them from losing money when they hold a spot for your service call. But you shouldn’t have to pay ahead for services even after an assessment is complete. Payment should not be due until services are complete and you are satisfied that the terms of your agreement were met.
If there is a request to pay a significant amount of money before starting an HVAC project, make sure you have some safeguards in place. First, do your research to make sure the HVAC contractor has the appropriate licenses and insurance to be working on your system. Then read reviews online to make sure they have a good reputation.
Finally, request a printed agreement that specifies the costs of parts and labor so you know exactly what you are paying for. This agreement also needs to detail the timeline for completing your HVAC project. This agreement can protect you in case something happens and the work is not completed as you expected.
Recharging Refrigerant
First, let us say that it is very possible that your refrigerant needs to be recharged if there is a leak in the line. But any services that include recharging your refrigerant should be accompanied by services that identify the location of damage where the leak is happening.
Otherwise, the recharge will not last and you’ll be left scheduling service again for the same issues. You are wasting money on recharging refrigerant levels if the lines are not repaired to prevent future leaks. Before you agree to services related to refrigerant levels, make sure that the project is all-encompassing.
No Breakdown for Pricing
You shouldn’t just be given a price for an HVAC project. Instead, you should understand the breakdown of exactly what your money is going to. You should know if there is a fee for completing the inspection, what the cost of parts is, and how much you are paying for the labor to get the job done. This helps to ensure that you are paying a fair price for all of the above.
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