A recent story about a family of four who died in Cancun due to the improper installation of a water heater prompted me to write this article. Every year in the U.S. there are people who go to sleep and never wake up due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Homes burned, flooded and destroyed by faulty home installations, including HVAC. Over the past 35+ years in the HVAC Business, I’ve seen some scary heating and air installations.
HVAC Requirements in Kentucky
Kentucky requires a license, continuing education classes, and inspections of work performed to ensure the safety of the homeowner and family on new construction. This is not required yet for the replacement of existing systems. This is the scary part.
Is an Online HVAC Purchase Really a Good Deal?
Everyone likes a good deal, and I can’t blame them. With the internet, homeowners have the ability to check ratings, companies and benefits of different types of equipment. Also, with the internet, you have the opportunity to cut out the middleman–buy direct and have equipment shipped right to your front door. You might even save money! It’s good to look online and see what’s available before you purchase a system. However, there are a few things you should take into consideration before you buy an HVAC unit online.
HVAC Manufacturers’ Warranties
Most manufacturers do not support online sales of their products, so their published warranties are not applicable to this equipment without extra conditions and requirements. Check any manufacturer’s online policy and do your homework before you buy any equipment. At Warren, we sell a lot of Rheem HVAC equipment. Here’s a list of frequently asked questions regarding online sales of their products and consumer protection.
The next scary part that can lead to safety issues is the installation. It appears to be easy to install it yourself – or get your friend’s buddy. Just put it in like the last one. That will save money too! We are all watching the DIY (do-it-yourself) shows and they can make things look easy–real easy. Please give this additional thought before you jump on board. This, too, can affect your equipment warranty, as well as home comfort and safety.
Updates to HVAC Materials & Home Construction
HVAC equipment has changed over the past few years. Also, homes have changed. The materials, insulation, doors and windows are far superior now to what was available 20 years ago. These changes have led to some huge problems with the improperly sized and installed HVAC systems. These problems can cause mold, mildew and basically create an unhealthy environment to live in. If you can see the mold, just imagine what you can’t see.
Trying to save money by purchasing items over the internet and being a DIY-er is okay for most things, but not on HVAC equipment. The best way to have a system replaced is to use a reputable contractor. There are several good companies in this area. They are trained and up-to-date on the latest products to avoid these issues.
Do Your Research Before You Buy an HVAC Unit Online
Again, go to the manufacturers’ websites to check their internet and DIY policies. A home needs to be inspected by an HVAC contractor who knows what to look for in order to provide you with the information you need to make a wise decision.
Remember health and safety first. Please call if we can help.
As a Mom who is a frequent shopper who compares prices on everything, I can tell you that there are some things that you do not go “cheap” on and one is anything that involves the SAFETY of your family. We just purchased an AC system from Warren and here is where they are different from others…when your thermometer says 97 degrees and your AC is not putting out like it should, they show up!
They sent several people and worked all day in my hot attic and outside so that my family could sleep in cool air. Best customer service I have seen in, I can’t remember when. Since we are new to the area, we asked several people including our realtor who to call. All of them said, Warren. Integrity matters as much as price. Look no further!