It sounds like a terrific deal: Buy this furnace, and we’ll give you an AC for free!

Who doesn’t appreciate something free, right?

Companies that dangle appealing deals like buying a furnace and getting an air conditioner for free usually make customers think they're going to hit the jackpot. However, it's essential to approach these offers carefully. In many cases, what seems like a fantastic deal at first may not be so good in the long run. Unscrupulous companies might boost the prices of their products or add hidden costs to make up for the discount that initially draws you in.

Think of the well-known saying: there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Well, in the HVAC industry, there aren’t that many air conditioners that are really free when it's all over.

Beware of the Not-So-Free AC

A supposedly "free" AC could come at the expense of having to pay higher installation fees or purchasing expensive supplementary services. It's critical for people to meticulously assess the overall cost and terms before falling for such advertisements. One way to protect yourself is to obtain a second opinion from a reputable HVAC company, such as Patterson & Stirling, and do a comparison of prices of the entire installation.

Below are a few of the ways a “free” AC could come back to bite your wallet

  • Inflated product prices: Some companies may boost the pricing of their products to make up for the "free" AC or service they're offering. This can make the entire cost of the package much higher than it first appears.
  • Unseen installation fees: Even though the air conditioner might be free, you may encounter unforeseen installation charges that aren't clearly stated in the original offer. These costs can significantly increase the total cost of the system.
  • Mandatory additional 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 exaggerated prices. These can swiftly add up.
  • Push for premium upgrades: Companies might pressure customers to upgrade components of the HVAC system at a higher cost, making claims of enhanced performance or increased efficiency. These upgrades may not be necessary or supply much value for the added expense.
  • Warranty limitations: Though the initial offer may include warranties, some companies might enforce restrictions or add exclusions to the promotion that reduce the coverage. You could potentially need to pay extra for extended warranties or face unexpected expenses if issues arise.

You Deserve Better than False Promotions. Go with a Reputable HVAC Company

When it comes to choosing a furnace, it's important to focus on reliability and quality instead of supposedly free offers. Instead of being lured by extravagant marketing gimmicks, it is wiser to work with a reputable company.

What are the signs of a reputable HVAC company? The company will have a sound track record in the industry, backed up by favorable customer ratings. It also will have necessary certifications and licenses, which indicates it follows industry standards and regulations.

How does a reputable HVAC company handle pricing? It will have honest and fair pricing, without hidden charges or inflated costs.

For Reliable, Honest HVAC Installation in Erie, Call Patterson & Stirling

At Patterson & Stirling, we take pride in delivering our customers trustworthy and high-quality HVAC service in Erie. Whether you are looking for furnace installation or are seeking a second opinion, our team is dedicated to giving you exceptional support and service for all your heating and cooling needs.

Our seasoned experts are skilled in their craft and equipped with the latest tools and technology to ensure efficient and precise installations. We focus on customer satisfaction, and our helpful staff members are always ready to answer any questions. When you partner with Patterson & Stirling, you can rest easy you'll get top-notch service from an HVAC company that genuinely cares about your comfort.

Call 814-308-0416 today for your no-cost, no-obligation estimate.