Heater Repair Scams [And How To Avoid Them!]

When something is wrong with one of your home systems, you should be able to put your trust in an HVAC technician. Unfortunately, not all repair companies have your best interests at heart. Dishonest contractors can take advantage of you if you’re not careful. It’s crucial to be aware of dodgy practices to protect yourself from a costly scam.

Brown Cooling, Heating, Plumbing and Electrical is the local heater company that you can trust! Our team aims to help you identify some common cons regarding your heating system. Read ahead to learn about common repair scams and how to avoid them in the future!

4 Common Furnace Repair Scams

Deceitful technicians will use a series of tricks to con homeowners out of their hard-earned money. Some of these scams are obvious, but others are difficult to determine. A few common cons to be aware of are:

A Cracked Heat Exchanger

The most common furnace repair scam is the “cracked heat exchanger.” Furnace heat exchangers can crack if they are not properly maintained. However, a dishonest professional may try to convince you this is the case, even if the component is not damaged.

Fixing a broken heat exchanger is an expensive repair. It’s essential to ask questions before giving a specialist the green light. You can ask to see the damage or get a second opinion before approving maintenance.

Pushing A Larger Heater Replacement

No one likes a pushy salesperson! As your current system reaches the end of its lifespan, a scammer may try to convince you to purchase a physically larger unit. Bigger heaters are often more expensive to install and cost more to operate. These factors allow shifty technicians to charge you more for labor and installation fees.

Upfront Cash Payments

A reputable HVAC company will never ask for payment prior to providing you with a service. If a specialist urges you to pay immediately before performing repairs, that is a red flag! They may attempt to take your money and disappear.

High-Pressure Sales

A dodgy specialist may try to frighten you into agreeing to immediate repairs and payment, usually by saying your life is in danger. Usually, the pushy claim will relate to a cracked heat exchanger. A reputable technician will not try to pressure you into a sale, nor will they lower the price if you agree at the moment. Ask to see evidence of the issue before considering making a purchase.

Tips For Avoiding A Repair Scam

You work hard for your money, so don’t let a dishonest specialist con you out of it! There are a few things to consider before trusting a technician. Follow these tips to find the right person for your heating system repairs:

• Verify that their license is up to date regarding your state requirements.
• Check online reviews.
• Get a second opinion if you’re unsure.
• Research the standard repair cost.
• Check if the company is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

You can’t be too careful when it comes to your home! A reliable HVAC company will put your needs first. It’s crucial to do your research before committing to an unfamiliar repair service.

Contact Us For Reliable Hueytown Heater Repair Services

If your heater is on the fritz, you need a company you can trust! Brown Cooling, Heating, Plumbing and Electrical strives to help with any repair service. Our team of professionals understands your concerns and will always put your needs first. Contact us today to learn how we can help and schedule your next repair service!