7 On Your Side Helps Couple Get Refund for Faulty HVAC System

HVAC Repair Nightmare

• 🏠 A retired couple in New Jersey, married for 43 years, faced extreme heat in July when their newly installed AC unit failed.
• 🌡️ The home reached 91°F, forcing the couple to camp out at the gym and avoid cooking.
• 💸 They had paid over $7,300 for a water heater and a staggering $26,000 for the HVAC unit, questioning the high cost.

Repeated Failures and Investigation

• 🛠️ The company attempted to fix the original AC unit three times, but it continued to fail.
• ⚖️ The couple filed a complaint with the county, which investigated the case as elder fraud and recommended a voluntary refund.
• 🚫 The company initially ignored the settlement offer of $13,200.

Intervention and Resolution

• 📢 After "7 On Your Side" got involved, the company's owner and general manager visited the couple.
• ✅ The faulty unit was replaced, and the couple received two checks: $13,200 for the settlement and an additional $2,500 for enduring the heat.
• 💬 The company attributed the issue to a defective part and stated their commitment to customer satisfaction, explaining the high cost was due to the couple choosing a top-tier system.

Advice for Big Ticket Purchases

• 📊 When purchasing major home systems like HVAC, it's crucial to get at least three quotes to compare pricing and specifications.
• 🧐 Ensure quotes are for comparable units (same size, efficiency, and rating) to make an accurate comparison.
• 🌐 For specific brands, consult authorized dealers and their websites to ensure you are getting a fair price and reliable product.