Don't get scammed: Experts offers tips for preparing your furnace for winter

The season for furnace scams is heating up as temperatures drop.

State regulators and consumer advocates are reminding home owners to do their research before forking over money for furnace cleaning, repairs and replacements.

“We get an increase in complaints this time of year about heating contractors that offer everything from duct cleaning to furnaces inspections,” said Phil Catlett, president of the Better Business Bureau serving West Michigan. “Most are reputable and competent, there are those out there that aren’t and they may try to frighten consumers into unnecessary

purchases or repairs.”

Many home owners don’t understand what heating work involves, and expenses can run from less than $100 to several thousand dollars, so it’s easy for contractors to take advantage of some people, said Steven Hilfinger, director of Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Mechanical contractors must be licensed with the state. Consumers can verify whether a business has the proper licensing by checking online or calling the Bureau of Construction Codes Mechanical Division at (517) 241-9325.

Customers also should ensure that a company is insured for liability and property damage.

Typically, if there have been problems with a company not following through on promises or duping customers, it will show up on the Better Business Bureau website. The BBB can perform an investigation if someone requests one.

Company longevity is another thing to consider, said Gary Schultz, who started Aspen One Hour Heating & Cooling in Jackson in 1981.

“If you’re going to make a large purchase, look at their website, look at who they are,” he said.

Schultz recommends getting a furnace safety check every year. His company is offering the service for $79.

There are varying opinions on the need for such services.

“Think of it a bit like your car. Both of them are potentially dangerous if they’re not running well, so by having an annual checkup you reduce the likelihood that there might be some dangerous issue,” said the BBB’s Catlett. “On the other hand, if money is tight, I don’t think there is any absolute that you need to have somebody come and inspect your furnace every year.”

Catlett recommends getting at least two or three estimates before having your furnace serviced or replaced.

If it’s urgent and there’s no time for three estimates, then ask for references from friends and family or check with the BBB, he said.

Home owners should consider replacing their furnace if it is more than 15 years old, according to Energy Star, a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.

A new furnace can cost up to several thousand dollars, but replacing old heating and cooling equipment with more energy efficient equipment can save some home owners nearly $200 on their annual energy bills, according to Energy Star.

Here are some more tips, courtesy of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs:

• Clean your furnace’s air returns with a household vacuum cleaner. Check the filter once a month and replace it if necessary to maintain efficiency and prolong the life of the furnace.

• Get your furnace thoroughly cleaned by a reputable, licensed mechanical contractor at least every two years. Beware of duct cleaning scams, where companies use cheap, low-quality vacuums.

• Check the warranty to see whether it covers any repairs or replacements. Many systems come with long-term warranties.

• Seek a contractor that offers warranties covering equipment, materials and labor, and offers maintenance and service after installation and after warranties have expired.

• Don’t do business with door-to-door salespeople and don’t fall for telephone solicitations that offer “low-cost” or “free” furnace cleaning. Once inside, the worker may tell the home owner their heating system has serious problems that require immediate attention. Get a written description of the suggested work and seek additional opinions.

• Be aware of scare tactics leading you to believe your existing furnace is dangerous. Don’t sign a contract just because the worker says you’re at risk of possible illness or death if the furnace isn’t replaced immediately. Ask for a written copy of the technician’s test results and call your local utility company to come and inspect your system.