⚠️ Consumer Alert: Scams & Fraud

The "While I'm Here" Scam
(Predatory Upselling)

Executive Summary

  • THE RISK:Being scared into buying a new system you don't need due to faked "dangerous" conditions.
  • THE CAUSE:Commission-based tech pay structures ("Selling Techs").
  • THE FIX:"Show me the picture" and "I'll get a second opinion."

The "Cracked Heat Exchanger" Scam

You hire a company for a "$59 AC Tune-Up Special."The tech goes into your attic. He comes down looking grave."Ma'am, I have bad news. Your heat exchanger is cracked. It's leaking Carbon Monoxide. If I turn this back on, your family could die tonight. I have to red-tag it."

You panic. Then he says, "Luckily, I have a crew nearby. We can install a new unit for $12,000 right now."

The heat exchanger wasn't cracked. He just wanted the commission.

Staged Damage

Some scammers use a coin to lift shingles or simulate hail impact damage. Others carry a water spray bottle to simulate "leaks" or rust on HVAC units.

🛡️ The Litmus Test: "Leave it off. I'm calling for a second opinion."
This kills the scam. A scammer knows another pro will expose them. Watch how fast they backpedal.

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