It appears like a bang-up deal: Buy this furnace, and we’ll give you an AC for free!

Who doesn’t appreciate something free, right?

Companies that offer tempting deals like buying a furnace and getting an air conditioner for free can make customers think they're going to hit the jackpot. Unfortunately, it's important to approach these offers carefully. In many cases, what sounds like a fantastic deal at first may not be so amazing in the long run. Shady companies may boost the prices of their products or incorporate hidden costs to make up for the discount they're promoting.

There’s that old saying: there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Well, in the HVAC industry, there aren’t that many air conditioners that are truly free when everything is accounted for

Beware of the Not-So-Free AC

An allegedly "free" AC could come at the expense of shelling out for higher installation fees or having to sign up for expensive additional services. It's crucial for consumers to carefully evaluate the overall cost and terms before falling for such promotions. One way to protect yourself is to request a second opinion from a reputable HVAC company, such as Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, and compare prices of the entire installation.

The following are a couple of the ways a “free” AC could come back to bite your wallet

  • Inflated product prices: Some companies may enhance the prices of their services and products to compensate for the "free" AC or service they're offering. This can make the entire cost of the package much higher than it originally appears.
  • Concealed installation fees: Even though the air conditioner may be free, you may encounter surprising installation charges that weren't clearly stated in the initial offer. These charges can significantly increase the total cost of the system.
  • Mandatory extra services: To recover the cost of the allegedly free item they are giving you, companies may require customers to purchase additional services or plans at embellished prices. All these can rapidly add up.
  • Push for premium upgrades: Companies might pressure customers to upgrade components of the HVAC system at a higher cost, claiming enhanced performance or better efficiency. These upgrades may not be necessary or offer much value for when their cost is factored in.
  • Warranty limitations: Though the original offer may include warranties, some companies might impose restrictions or add exclusions to the promotion that reduce the coverage. Buyers could potentially need to pay additional money for extended warranties or face unexpected expenses if issues arise.

Don’t Fall for False Promotions. Go with a Reputable HVAC Company

When it comes to buying a furnace, it's essential to concentrate on reliability and quality instead of supposedly free offers. Instead of being enticed by flashy promotions, it is wiser to work with a reputable company.

What are the indicators of a reputable HVAC company? The company will have a solid track record in the industry, endorsed by positive customer reviews. It also will have required certifications and licenses, which shows it adheres to industry standards and regulations.

How does a reputable HVAC business handle pricing? It will have clear and fair pricing, with no hidden charges or inflated costs.

For Reliable, Honest HVAC Installation in Greater Richmond, Choose Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

At Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we take pride in giving our customers reliable and high-quality HVAC service in Greater Richmond. Whether you want furnace installation or are seeking a second opinion, our team is dedicated to giving you outstanding support and service for all your heating and cooling needs.

Our seasoned technicians are skilled in their craft and furnished with the latest tools and technology to ensure efficient and precise installations. We prioritize customer satisfaction, and our helpful staff members are always ready to answer any questions. When you partner with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, you can have confidence that you'll get superior service from an HVAC company that really cares about your comfort.

Call 804-302-6657 today for your free, no-obligation estimate.