Avoiding Furnace Repair Scams
It's colder all around the country, and it's about this time that I'm often asked how to avoid heating contractors out to prey on customers in need of furnace repair. There are many reputable, honest and ethical heating contractors despite the few who give the industry a bad wrap. Here are some important ways you can avoid being scammed, and ensure you receive honest furnace repair service whenever the need arises:
1. Check Licensing
Ask for the heating contractor's license number. Then, perform a simple Google search for "license [number]" to see what comes up. License requirements vary widely by location, so don't be too put off if you don't see any search results for the number, it could be unpublished or not available online. Some areas require the number listed on the company's web site and some do not. Follow up with your local county clerk's office to ensure the license is valid and in good standing. For example, one of our locations serving Cincinnati Ohio is
Knochelmann Service Experts. Their Google results are shown to the right.
In their area, an HVAC contractor license number is required to be shown on the company's website. Also note the
Angie's List profile for Knochelmann. As a reputable contractor services directory, you can see Knochelmann Service Experts' information on their Angie's List profile, as well as consumer reviews. And speaking of consumer reviews...
2. Read Reviews
While you're at it, look up some of the company's reviews. Online reviews are a great source for references, but just keep in mind that they are just that, references. In some cases you should consider online reviews with a bit of a grain of salt because, unfortunately, although many consumers provide good advice and information... some opinions may be quite subjective or inaccurate. View as much online review information as you can and then call the company for a quote.
3. Obtain Estimates & Coupons
The issue of course with getting estimates for repairs is a) your furnace may not be functioning when it's freezing out, and b) you typically need to pay a diagnostic fee for each company. This is the nature of home repair, but it doesn't always have to cost a fortune just to get repair estimates.
Take a few minutes to explore the web sites of those heating contractors which you would like to get quotes, look for current repair coupons and offers. Some contractors like Knochelmann offer discounts, and in some cases a FREE diagnostic at certain times of the year. By the way, printing coupons may sound simple, but you would be surprised how few people take this basic step to save themselves $20, $50, even $70 or more on the diagnostic charge. So check the company's web site, you may just find a great deal.
4. Demand NATE-certified Technicians
When you call to schedule your appointment, request a
NATE-certified technician. As
I've said before,
NATE-certification is the key to quality workmanship. NATE-certification doesn't mean that every repair will be simple or inexpensive, but it does mean that you will very likely have a qualified technician with the professional experience and training to diagnose, estimate and make the repairs needed more quickly and efficiently. And that simply means your home will be warm and comfortable quicker.
An important point is this:
there is a high value to high qualification. Don't be afraid to pay for quality, which includes proper licensing, high ethical standards of excellence, customer discounts and NATE-certification. Be wary of 'bait and switch' tactics, and in the end, go with the company that makes you feel most comfortable. For more information on choosing a heating and air conditioning contractor,
click here to view the Department of Energy's Heating & Cooling Guide.
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