Homeowners know that their air conditioning system is critical for a comfortable home in the summertime. But for most of us, that is where our AC expertise ends. When there is an issue with the house not cooling, we rely on the advice and diagnosis of an HVAC expert to guide us in making a smart choice for a repair or replacement of the AC unit. However, that is only a wise decision when you know that you are working with a reputable and dependable HVAC professional. Sadly, many people out there are willing to prey on homeowners who need HVAC help to repair their ailing air conditioning system.
How To Identify An AC Repair Scam Artist
Most scams can be simple to identify when you know what to look for and the right questions to ask. But it is critical that you perform your due diligence before making an appointment with an unsavory company and allowing their representative into your home. Some telltale signs of a scam include:
- There is limited or no company information available online, with the BBB, or your state and local licensing entity. This includes a company that has a website that is a single page, has a placeholder page and not a functional website, or has no website.
- A company that has no printed literature or brochures is likely to be a fake. This includes a company that does not offer a printed estimate for work, warranty, product informational guide, or background information about themselves and their work.
- If the company asks for payment before the work is completed, it is a sign of trouble. All reputable AC companies have relationships with suppliers and vendors to purchase materials. So if the company asks for money to buy the equipment or materials, they will most likely take your money and run. Even worse, they could also be looking to sell your credit card information or checking account number to an identity thief.
- Pushy high-pressure sales are a sign of a scam artist. There is no place for this type of behavior in the AC industry. HVAC business professionals know that you need your AC to work, but we also understand that money can be tight at times. We are only interested in helping our customers get their AC functioning so that their homes are comfortable and safe.
- It is common for a scammer to quote you an astronomical price for a part replacement, only to tell you that it is cheaper to replace the entire AC unit. In most cases, there is not even anything wrong with the system, or if there is, it is minor. The dishonest person is just trying to sell you something expensive that you do not need. Always opt for a second opinion if you do not have a long-standing relationship with the company that recommends a replacement.
- The recharging scam is when the technician says that your AC is low on refrigerant and needs to be recharged. If that is the case, then there is a leak in the system. You should be asking to see where the refrigerant is leaking as proof that there is a problem. If you don’t ask this vital question, the tech will charge you for refrigerant that you don’t need and did not receive. It is a simple way to pad a bill and make some extra money at your expense.
Knowing about these so-called HVAC pros and their tactics is the best way to protect yourself and your air conditioner. If you genuinely have a problem, these people are not likely to identify it or fix it. But they will bilk you out of your hard-earned money. For all your AC needs, call (512) 910-8123 to schedule an appointment with the reliable team from Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning. We have built our business on honesty and integrity.
