Watch for pressure to replace without measurements, carbon-monoxide scares without test readings or photos, refrigerant top-offs without a leak search, vague model numbers, and large deposits. Delaware rules require written contracts with the contractor’s contact details, the price, and any warranty disclaimers you initial. Complaints go to the Delaware DOJ Consumer Mediation Unit.
Technical Consideration
Red flags and what to ask instead
| Red flag | Ask for |
|---|---|
| “Your unit is too old to service” | The specific failed part and a repair price |
| “Cracked heat exchanger, you are in danger” | Photos or camera footage and combustion / CO readings |
| Refrigerant added every year | A leak search and repair quote |
| “Sign today for this price” | A written quote valid for a set period |
| Large deposit before permits | A payment schedule tied to milestones |
| Brand talk, no load calculation | A Manual J sizing report |
Is “your system is too old to service” a real thing?
Age alone does not make a system unserviceable; most parts are still available for systems 15 to 20 years old.
Refusing service can be a sales tactic. Ask for the specific failure and get a second opinion before replacing a working system.
How do I verify a cracked heat exchanger claim?
A legitimate finding comes with evidence: photos or video of the crack and combustion analysis or carbon-monoxide readings.
A crack is serious, so shut the furnace down if one is confirmed, but get a second qualified inspection before paying for replacement.
What must a Delaware home improvement contract include?
Delaware DOJ rules require a written contract with the contractor’s name, address, phone, website, and email, the price, all final terms, and an approximate completion date unless it states none is provided.
Warranty disclaimers must be initialed by you, and contractors may not falsely claim your property is defective or pressure you to sign a completion certificate early.
Where do I complain about an HVAC contractor in Delaware?
Contact the Delaware Department of Justice Consumer Mediation Unit at (302) 577-8600 or (800) 220-5424, or file online.
You can also check the contractor’s license status and file a complaint with the Division of Professional Regulation.
Related services in Wilmington
- AC Installation & Replacement in Wilmington, DE
- Furnace Repair in Wilmington, DE
- Heating Repair in Wilmington, DE
Local verification resources
Before authorizing work, use the Delaware license lookup. For projects that may require approval, consult the City of Wilmington permit information or the authority serving the property.