Sunday June 24th, 2007
Boulder Daily Camera
Letters to the Editor
HVAC-Buyer Beware on Heating Systems

I write this letter to advise readers to be careful when they replace their heating-cooling system for their homes. Colorado has no consumer protection for what is likely to be a highly technical decision and a major expense.

When we needed a new furnace and air conditioner for our home, we interviewed several companies, selecting one for the job. The new system cost thousands of dollars, so we were chagrined to find that, on the first cold day of last winter, it failed to work. We were further chagrined to find that the supposedly reputable company had installed the wrong-sized product and had gone out of business, leaving no trace, having committed similar mistakes to many homes in Boulder.

Fortunately, we located a completely honest and professional company, Nationwide Heating and Air Conditioning, who came to our aid, installing the right equipment and even selling our wrong-sized equipment, which recovered much of our loss. We have also learned that older homes at Boulder's high elevation have inadequate duct work for the new heating/cooling systems on the market today, a problem that contributed significantly to the failure of the first system we purchased, and a problem which Nationwide spent many hours remedying. None of the companies we interviewed, except Nationwide, even mentioned the problem, much less figured it out. Without Nationwide, it is likely we would have lost thousands of dollars twice!

Here is what we learned: Be very careful when you have a new HVAC installation. Bring the city into the process — they know about our problem and would like to help other residents avoid a similar catastrophe in the future.
Merrill Glustrom Boulder, Colorado

"My wife and I are very impressed with the expertise and knowledge of you production manager. He demonstrated job thoroughness and customer service until the job was completed. After he left (around 10pm), he called to ask how things were going and left us a number to call if we needed anything else.

It is rare to find employees like Mr. Blea. In a time where 'customer service' borders on 'customer abuse', Mr. Blea is a breath of fresh air. As his supervisor, you should know that you have a jewel of an employee. He will reward you with many satisfied customers and increased business."
- Arnold Gallegos, Denver, Colorado

"On behalf of my wife, children, and myself, we appreciate the prompt, professional service that was given to us by your company.

I will be happy to recommend your company to anyone thinking of getting a new furnace and/or air conditioning."
- Ashland Johnson, Denver, Colorado

"Just a short note to thank you and let you know that we appreciate the prompt service your company provided in resolving our sticky situation."
- Dale Lamore, Lakewood, Colorado
 

"My only regret is that I don't have any jobs pending to send over to you. When I do, you will get them.

Dan has done a professional installation on the two jobs I have had a chance to look at.

The craftsmanship is clean, neat, and professional. The customers are very pleased. Dan is also very good with working with the customer.

I've been around this profession for a few years (since 1982). The only time I have seen comparable quality work was on hot water systems, never before on sheet metal."
- John Merrit, Lakewood, Colorado

"Thank-you again for someone who was not going to do Christmas this year--you did, in a big way and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I hope the holidays were great for you and yours."
-Debbie Rossiter Castle Rock, Colorado