5 Tips For Owning Your Furnace Repair and Avoiding Scams

Don’t Be Duped: 5 Tips For Owning Your Furnace Repair

Furnace repair scams are more common than most homeowners realize, especially during the tail end of Iowa’s harsh winter months. With just a few bitter cold spells left, you might be hoping your furnace can hold on a little longer. But then, during a sudden temperature drop, your heating system takes a dive. You know you need a repair, and fast, but how can you be sure the company you call won’t take advantage of the situation?

1. Watch Out for Furnace Repair Scams with “Too Good to Be True” Pricing

A quick internet search will pull up a handful of HVAC repair companies. Some will try to differentiate themselves with a low trip-charge fee to inspect your system. The savings may calm your nerves, that is, until you get the final bill. Often, these companies make up the difference with unexpected labor or parts charges, a hallmark of many furnace repair scams. Instead, look for companies that use a standardized pricing system. That way, you know you're not getting the short end of the stick.

2. Look for a Licensed HVAC Technician

Did you know that not every HVAC company requires its technicians to be licensed? Even years of experience in the business doesn't equate to the accreditation of holding an apprenticeship, journeyman's, or master's license. Holding a license means the technician must complete continuing education courses and abide by a universal set of standards. If you're unsure of the technician's credentials at all, feel free to ask for their license and registration.

3. Demand Data from Your Furnace Technician

If your technician is spending more time trying to convince you to purchase new equipment rather than troubleshooting the problem, that's a red flag. In this day and age, there are tools to measure just about everything, combustion, airflow, electrical consumption, voltages, you name it. So, if you're being told you need to overhaul your heating system, ask for the analytics to back it up. There are always anomalies, like an electrical failure, that may be tough to measure and diagnose at first. However, these types of repairs shouldn't require you to replace your system.

4. Don’t Be Bullied by HVAC Scare Tactics

In a pinch, technicians may try to use scare tactics to pressure you into buying new equipment. While situations like carbon monoxide poisoning and heat exchanger failure are very serious, the technician's claims should always be rooted in fact. If you're ever unsure, conduct some of your own research. Reputable organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America are a great resource for homeowners seeking unbiased guidance. Protecting yourself from scare tactics is one of the best ways to avoid falling for furnace repair scams.

5. Go With the HVAC Warranty

The last thing you want is to shell out money for a repair only to have it break again one or two years down the road. Do yourself a favor, look for companies who offer repair warranties. Some companies may even cover the cost of poor repairs from previous homeowners. It never hurts to check! And, like any other major decision, feel free to seek out a second opinion. No one company will have all the answers, and you don't want to be left out in the cold.

It’s unfortunate that some companies may try to capitalize on you during a time of need, which is why furnace repair scams are more common than you might think. Knowing what to watch for helps protect your family, your finances, and your peace of mind. That’s why at Bell Brothers, we take service personally. It’s simple, we treat our customers how we’d like to be treated.