Most homeowners understand the value of a regular professional service regime for their HVAC installation, and it’s a given that preventative maintenance pays eventual dividends. That said, with our record highs above 100 degrees here in Georgia, and the record low set below zero, it’s easy to envision cases where system failure could constitute an emergency. If the company you call is unscrupulous, that necessity could put you at risk from scams. Knowing the “red flags” is important, and these are three HVAC contractor practices to avoid:

Too Good to be True

When things appear to be too good to be true, they usually are. Fly-by-night contractors often use misleading, or downright false, financial claims to get business. Perhaps the most common is an “introductory price” that’s wildly less than you expect to pay. Any company that offers tune-ups – or first calls – at unrealistically low charges, must recoup that cost elsewhere. That’s likely to be on their emergency work.

Rounding Up to New Equipment

Once an unscrupulous contractor has gotten over the threshold with a low-ball opening estimate, another common deception is to employ a “rule of thumb” for sizing of heating and cooling systems. Codes governing residential premises mandate that a “Manual J” engineering load calculation be carried out when sizing an installation. When the contractor provides a quick size calculation based solely on the square footage of your home, or whatever your current system is, look elsewhere.

Follow-ups by Phone

System replacements are affected by numerous variables individual to each home. It’s not possible for office or sales staff to provide an accurate estimate for a system installation or other major project over the phone, and you should be suspicious of any caller who suggests you immediately accept an installation bid.

The best tip for avoiding an HVAC contractor who indulges in questionable practices is to use your regular provider for all your needs, both routine and emergency. In the Peachtree City area, please contact us at Powers Heating and Air.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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