CTV’s W5 recently investigated the ongoing threat of door-to-door HVAC scams in Ontario and all across Canada.
W5’s Kevin Newman interviewed homeowners who have been victims of these HVAC scams by organizations who claim to be provincial “energy inspectors,” stopping by to do a regular safety check on the home’s furnace or air conditioner. The salespeople working for these companies tend to target areas with older homes or older residents, or even residents who may be new to Canada.
These scammers use a well-organized sales pitch to work to convince homeowners that their furnace is either using too much energy to run and that they’ll save if they buy the unit they’re selling that day. Homeowners faced with these HVAC scams and salespeople will notice that they use a lot of overwhelming language to explain why you need a new furnace or air conditioner. You’ll be told about many government energy incentives, rebates and discounts available if you sign their contract. The fact is, they may tout the government incentives, but they’re not affiliated with the government at all.
According to the W5 investigation, signing this contract leaves victimized homeowners paying $158 a month to these companies for the duration of the life of the furnace or air conditioner, which is around 15 years. The contract also grants the companies the right to increase the monthly charges by 3.8% per year, even as the unit depreciates with age.
HVAC scams can leave homeowners in crippling debt and bad credit. The video states that a basic furnace could end up costing around $30,000, which is more than double what it is originally worth.
As shady companies continue to scam homeowners with these contracts, the reputation of licensed and upstanding HVAC dealers is being destroyed. Delta Air Systems works hard to build strong and trusting relationships with our customers and offers full transparency in the products and service you receive from us. We have been in the HVAC business since the 1950’s and are committed in offering only the very best for our customers.
Click here to view the full W5 investigation.