Don’t Get Sucked In By Deceptive Duct Cleaners, Scare Tactics

WALLINGFORD — Consumers who fall prey to scam ductwork cleaners can end up getting more than they paid for — in the form of repair bills for damage to heating and cooling systems caused by poorly trained duct cleaning services, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Con artists also may use any combination of scare tactics, high pressure sales and low-ball cleaning estimates to get in the door to convince homeowners that their dwellings require thousands of dollars in unnecessary mold removal.

While most heating and cooling system maintenance providers are honest, Connecticut Better Business Bureau President Paulette Scarpetti says unscrupulous operators take advantage of the average homeowner’s ignorance of how these systems operate.

“These duct cleaning services may advertise in local newspapers or distribute flyers that advertise a low price for cleaning, often with references to dust mites, mold, mildew, or other factors that can contribute to unhealthy air quality. Once in your home, they may conduct a phony air quality test to try to convince homeowners that they need to spend thousands of dollars for mold removal.”

Better Business Bureau recommends consumers be careful when looking for a professional to clean air ducts.

*Check out the company with BBB. Pay attention to the company’s name to ensure an unscrupulous outfit is not using a name that is similar to a well-established company with a solid reputation.

*Read the fine print. Ads and contracts may contain fine print that the business might use to try to absolve itself from honoring an advertised price. Ask enough questions so that you understand exactly what the service or any repairs might cost before you sign on the dotted line.

*Get a second opinion. If a duct cleaner tells you there is a mold problem that requires attention, do not be pressured into committing to any immediate repairs. Verify the problem with a second service provider. Mold remediation can cost thousands of dollars, so seek expert advice on how to deal with the problem.

*File a complaint if there is a problem. If you believe you have been misled by a business, file a complaint with BBB online at www.bbb.org. The complaint may also serve as a warning about the business for other consumers.

You can find more tips on home improvement and maintenance at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-home.