Every year as the temperatures start to rise, scam artists and fly-by-night service companies seem to come out of the woodwork to take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners who need air conditioner service or repairs. The following are a few tips to make sure that you do not get taken advantage of the next time you need an AC tune-up or repair.
Do your homework:
You certainly do not have to become an HVAC expert, but if a technician tells you that a part is broken, take a moment to ask a few questions. Ask the technician for the name of the part and its function. The explanation should sound logical even to a layman. If possible, do a quick online search to find out more about the part and the type of repair.
Get referrals:
A company’s online reviews can provide insight into a company’s level of customer service and expertise; however, some disreputable companies will post fake reviews. The best referral is always word of mouth. Ask your friends, family, and co-workers about who they would use and recommend.
Look for the catch:
Disreputable companies often offer unrealistically low prices for service calls only to hit you with a laundry list of expensive and unnecessary repairs once they get in the door. You should avoid the offer that seems too good to be true. Get several estimates and look for a company whose prices are in line with the local market.
Avoid the phone solicitation:
Some companies hire phone solicitors in an effort to drum up business using high-pressure sales tactics. Any company with a good reputation within the community will have more than enough business without resorting to this type of tactic.
Ask for a physical address:
Any company that does not publish a physical address on its website, business cards, or other literature is probably hiding something and should be avoided.
Contact Cunningham Associates today for more information about our services or to schedule a service call.