These days, you can do just about everything online, including making a major online HVAC purchase. But just because you can, is it really the best option?
Buying a new furnace or air conditioner is a substantial expense and a major investment in your home’s value. You’ll be living with the consequences of your choice every day for many years to come. Opting for an online HVAC purchase should make you hesitate and think it over carefully. Here are some pros and cons:
Online convenience.
Point-and-click is inviting when it comes to many routine purchases. But can you verify everything you need to know about this major, long-term investment by simply perusing a website with a mouse?
Up-front savings.
An online HVAC purchase often comes with a lower price tag than buying from a manufacturer-certified local contractor. However, will savings be worth it later if you can’t get warranty coverage on an expensive component or emergency service on the coldest night of the year?
Installation matters.
Who installs a new HVAC unit directly affects its future performance, efficiency, and reliability for as long as it’s installed. Companies that sell online units from remote locations don’t travel to your house to install them. Likewise, qualified, manufacturer-certified local HVAC contractors who have an established track record and reputation for quality typically decline to install units purchased from online vendors. You’ll have to choose unknown installers who perhaps lack verifiable references or pay substantially higher costs to ensure proper HVAC installation by a reputable local contractor.
Warranty issues.
Major manufacturers of HVAC systems generally don’t offer warranties on an online HVAC purchase. Name-brand companies have a legitimate interest in ensuring that their products are properly marketed, correctly sized for its intended use and installed and maintained by certified professionals. Bearing the expense of a single repair because you don’t have a valid manufacturer’s warranty will likely negate any savings you gained by making an online HVAC purchase.
Ask the Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning professionals for more pros and cons of making an online HVAC purchase.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area