If you live in the Carrollton area, you know how important it is to have a quality furnace in the wintertime. It is one of the essential appliances in your home, so if you are in the market for a new heater, then chances are you’ll probably at least look online.
These days, you can do just about everything through your computer or smartphone. Yes, that includes making a big appliance purchase! Most major retailers allow you to schedule an installation and buy 100% online. It is a convenient option, no doubt. But remember, shopping online does also have downsides.
Pros
Online shopping for any item comes with its advantages, including convenience, price comparison, and selection. Here are some of the main reasons people like their shopping carts to be digital.
Online Convenience
There’s nothing more convenient than shopping online. Most of us make lots of online purchases every year. There is no need to go to the store, worry about inventory, and transport your heater. Most online marketplaces list all of the specifications you need to know, as well as manufacturing and warranty information.
You can compare models, see photos, and make the purchase all in one afternoon. Then the furnace just shows up at your door! When it comes to convenience, there’s no question online shopping is the best option.
Price Comparison
Online shopping for your heater makes it easier than ever to price shop. You can compare the cost of many different furnaces across different manufacturers and online marketplaces. You’d be surprised with the cost difference between manufacturers with similar furnace models.
You can also take advantage of online sales and even set up price alerts that notify you when the price drops on a device you like. There’s no doubt that price shopping online is easy, straightforward, and time-efficient.
Selection
Most major retailers will have a decent selection of furnaces available for purchase in person. However, it doesn’t compare to the number of choices you’ll find online. When you shop with your computer or smartphone, you can find nearly every manufacturer, every model, and every upgrade you could ever want.
If you are looking for a standard model, you’ll be able to find dozens of options. And if you are looking for something more specialized, you’ll be able to find a selection for that, as well. You can compare all of the devices in one place, making it easier to compare and settle on the model that’s right for you.
Cons
While shopping online for a heater is certainly convenient, it comes with drawbacks, including shipping costs and installation or warranty issues.
Shipping
There’s no way around it—shipping large objects is expensive. Companies charge based on size and weight. Unfortunately, furnaces are large and heavy. In addition, new heaters require accessories like electrical cords that also affect the shipping cost.
Some online vendors will cover the cost of shipping on occasion. Other times, you’ll be responsible for paying, and that can drive up the total cost significantly.
In addition, shipping large objects can take time. Oftentimes, online companies won’t pay to fly large appliances, so they transport them by ground, which can easily take a week or more. If you’ve had a breakdown and need a new furnace fast, online shopping may not be the best option.
Questionable Installation
The installation of your new heater is incredibly important. The quality of the install will directly affect your system’s performance, efficiency, and reliability. If the install is not completed correctly, you may end up dealing with repair bills sooner than you should. Incorrect installation can also significantly shorten the lifespan of your system.
Companies that sell units online sometimes don’t offer installation, meaning you’ll be left to find an installer yourself. On the other hand, some online companies that do offer installation services sell thousands of furnaces a year and focus on quantity, not quality. In other words, you never really know what you are getting with their installation services.
Warranty Issues
One of the best things you can do when you purchase a new heater is to make sure it comes with a solid warranty. If you purchase a new system through a local HVAC company, you can likely get a warranty through the manufacturer in addition to the local company, so you’ll be totally covered in the event that something happens.
Online retailers aren’t so straightforward. Many manufacturers don’t offer warranties on online HVAC purchases. When they do, it is usually limited, and it can be hard to get covered when it comes time for repairs or a breakdown.
Misleading Advertisements
If you’ve ever shopped for anything online, you know that marketing companies are talented at selling products. They write perfect descriptions that make it seem like you are purchasing the best product on the market. But how do you know what you are really getting and if it is right for you?
If you aren’t familiar with furnaces, you are really just hoping for the best when you order online. There are dozens and dozens of options, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed.
On the other hand, if you purchase through a local Carrolton company, they’ll be able to share their expertise and help you make a selection.
Local companies have years of experience in the community, know all of the manufacturers, and can make honest recommendations that fit your needs.
Choose Sirius Plumbing and Air Conditioning for Your Heating Needs
If you are ready to order a new heater, Sirius Plumbing and Air Conditioning have you covered. With over two decades of industry experience in Carrollton, we always have one goal in mind: to treat customers like family.
We can help make honest recommendations so that you have peace of mind knowing you have a quality furnace that fits your needs. You can also rest easy knowing that our professionals installed it the right way. We’re standing by ready to help. Give us a call today!