Buy online HVAC?

Question

I am in the process of my closing on my first flip and the previous tenant stole the complete HVAC.  I've had an idea about buying the system online with free shipping and a reasonable price point seems to make sense.  My plan was/is to get a written estimate with professional local business and then source a similar system online.   We've all done this with our electronics, go look at bestbuy and then buy on amazon, why not hvac's?

Brian Mathews · Answer

I'm an hvac contractor and I'll tell you how it works from the distributors and contractors end.   I'm installed several systems for people who bought them online.    First of all, if you need warranty parts for anything, you will be left to fend for yourself from whoever you bought it online from.   None of the local distributors here will warranty any parts, regardless of what the online company tells you.    And it will break, they break when the weather is at it's most extreme, when you really need it working.    It might take several days to weeks to get parts.  Buying locally, you will more than likely get parts in a day or less.   I offer absolutely no warranty on any repairs, so when something breaks, you will be charged full labor rate.   New hvac equipment is nowhere near as reliable as older stuff, new stuff doesn't last 20 years anymore and usually requires somewhat regular maintenance, it isn't as forgiving as it once was.   The next issue I've seen about half the time is that you get what you order, but if you don't know what you're ordering, you may not get what you want.   When you receive it, its yours.  They don't take it back.   I've seen 4 people have to re-order another piece of equipment because they ordered the wrong stuff.   I don't really care if people order their own equipment.   It's better for me so I don't have to warranty the inevitable breakdown.   I also would never install for $500.   That's a joke for anybody to do that.    Likely an unlicensed person doing a crappy install working for beer and cigarette money.

Pat L. · Answer

https://www.acwholesalers.com/Limited-Time-Deals-Timer-Sale/cat22601.ac?email=Daily-Deals

then find a lic installer to do the install so you qualify for the warranty.

We have a lic installer on board that completes the installs we do for around $500.

Geneva S Gentile · Answer

HVAC always have an issue with the AC unit.  I agree with Mark.

John Henderson · Answer

@Brian Mathews a valid point perhaps but this being a flip would the new HVAC system installed by a local HVAC dealer have a warranty that transferred to the new homeowner? If so then that could be a selling point.

Account Closed sounds very heavy!  Checked around and for about  $100 I can have some pro movers accept it at the dock and deliver it to the basement.

Thanks to all for the input and all the advice it's appreciated!

Account Closed · Answer

online isnt horrible, if you know what you're doing. as far as a condenser, they usually come with a level of pre-charge but not enough to be harmful during shipping. never bought either online, but i know people that have and have had good results.  however, these are not small, or light, or without the possibility of breaking. they have moving parts, delicate electronics, tubes carrying liquid, etc that could all break during shipping. and while you may be able to return it, how long and how much hassle is that going to entail?

John Henderson · Answer

I ended up going with a local licensed and insured HVAC contractor.  He gave me great deal, showed up and finished the job on time and on budget.  I was so pleased he is now my guy and I told him I would tell my friends about him.  So give Ivan w B&M HVAC (620)441-7477 some work and tell him I sent ya.

John Henderson · Answer

@Brian Mathews Thanks for the good info. that definitely could make a difference in my decision.

Brian Mathews · Answer

@John Henderson  All hvac equipment comes with a 5 year parts warranty no matter who buys it.  it tracks off the serial number.   Not sure of your area for labor warranty.

Tariq B. · Answer

I've done it before with a boiler it was a very very smooth process. Only problem was it was heavy as hell and took 3 of us to get it down the stars. For such a small thing it was surprisingly heavy. One thing to mention. They guy who delivered mine was a good sport and helped me get it to the door. Most people will leave it on the curb.

Buy online HVAC?

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