As colder weather settles in across Canada, homeowners focused on keeping warm may become more appealing targets for furnace scammers.
Here's what to know
A Calgary consumer alert issued Oct. 22 by BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay warned people to watch for a furnace scam, CFTR The Rogue reported.
"We warn consumers about this scam because every year without exception we receive reports from homeowners that they have been contacted by telephone or at their front door by someone offering to do a 'free' inspection of their furnace," said Mary O'Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of BBB Serving Alberta and East Kootenay.
Someone may call or show up at the door offering a free furnace inspection, then try to push the homeowner toward repairs or even a complete replacement that may not be needed.
"These individuals are out to make a quick buck from unsuspecting homeowners. Do not let anyone into your home who has not been properly identified. Call a reputable HVAC company with a strong track record to do this work, not a fly-by-night operator," O'Sullivan-Andersen said.
The timing matters because furnace inspections can seem especially sensible as temperatures drop and households focus more on heat, comfort, and safety. In that context, an unexpected "free" offer may sound more credible than it is.
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More background
A no-cost inspection offer can often turn into pressure to make a costly decision immediately.
The financial risk can be substantial because, as O'Sullivan-Andersen noted, "HVAC systems can be worth tens of thousands of dollars." For many households, paying for unnecessary work could seriously strain the family budget.
Because the BBB issues this warning year after year, the problem appears seasonal and recurring rather than a one-off. Treat an unexpected call or knock offering a supposedly free inspection as a major red flag.
What can be done?
Instead of agreeing to a surprise pitch over the phone or at the door, homeowners should schedule furnace or HVAC inspections themselves through a company they have already researched.
Before agreeing to any service, the BBB says consumers should verify a company's background and licensing, review warranty details, check company feedback on BBB.org, and confirm WCB and liability insurance coverage.
Getting a written estimate before any work begins and comparing prices and service options across companies can help consumers evaluate the offer and make it harder for a scammer to change the terms after getting inside the home.
"Hire a reputable company if you need your furnace, or any of your HVAC systems inspected," O'Sullivan-Andersen said, according to CFTR. "Hiring a professional is an investment in your home, your safety and the best way to protect your hard earned cash."
Where can I learn more?
These cases further show how furnace and HVAC sales pitches can turn into expensive pressure tactics.
• One homeowner said a simple HVAC repair spiraled into an "unprofessional" $2,300 bill.
• A homeowner said a pushy HVAC tech used scare tactics to pressure an upgrade.
• Homeowners accused HVAC contractors of trust-me sales tactics used to push costly systems.
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