👉 Quick version: You can always review the basics on our Lowest Price Guarantee page.
But if you’ve got a few minutes, let me walk you through something that can save you serious money — while also saving you from major headaches.
I’m Savvy Mavi 👋, and today I’ll show you how to spot real competitor prices that qualify for The Furnace Outlet’s Lowest Price Guarantee versus the shady “deals” that aren’t worth your time.
Because let’s be honest: the internet is full of HVAC “bargains” that turn out to be scams, unauthorized sellers, or offers that don’t actually compare apples-to-apples. And when you’re spending thousands on a furnace, AC, or heat pump, the last thing you want is buyer’s remorse.
🕵️ Why Not All Prices Are Created Equal
We live in a world where you can buy anything online — from coffee filters to full HVAC systems. But not every listed price is legitimate or comparable.
Here’s why:
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Unauthorized sellers sometimes list equipment at low prices, but without warranty coverage.
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Hidden fees like freight, taxes, or “residential delivery surcharges” can inflate the real cost.
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Counterfeit or refurbished units may be passed off as new, voiding manufacturer support.
The Federal Trade Commission warns that too-good-to-be-true prices often come from questionable sellers. And in HVAC, a shady deal could cost you thousands in the long run.
That’s why The Furnace Outlet’s Lowest Price Guarantee only matches legit competitor prices.
✅ Savvy’s Checklist for a Legit Competitor Price
Here’s the exact checklist I use (and you should too) when comparing competitor prices.
1. Same Brand & Model Number (SKU)
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Example: A Goodman GSXH503610 is not the same as a GSXN403610.
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Even small differences in SKU can mean big differences in features, SEER2 ratings, or refrigerants.
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Confirm with tools like ENERGY STAR’s product finder to ensure the listing matches exactly.
2. In-Stock Status
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Price must be for an item available today.
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“Coming soon” or “backordered” listings don’t count.
3. Price Includes Shipping & Taxes
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Some sites advertise a low sticker price but tack on $250+ in freight delivery.
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Always add the unit to cart to check the real checkout total.
4. Competitor Must Be Authorized
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Only authorized dealers qualify — because warranty coverage depends on it.
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Use manufacturer locators like Goodman’s dealer finder.
5. Publicly Advertised Price
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No “special quote only” offers.
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Price must be visible and verifiable.
When all five boxes are checked ✅ — you’ve found a competitor price that qualifies for a match.
❌ Red Flags That Signal a Shady Price
Now, let’s flip the script. What should make you pause (or run) when you see an online “deal”?
🚩 1. No Contact Info or Physical Address
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Legitimate retailers will list customer service numbers and real business addresses.
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If the site only has a contact form — be cautious.
🚩 2. Prices Way Below Market Average
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A 3-ton AC system listed for 50% below average ($2,500 instead of ~$5,000)? Red flag.
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According to HomeAdvisor, most AC systems fall in a specific cost range. Anything drastically lower is suspicious.
🚩 3. Hidden Freight Charges
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A unit may show as $3,000, but checkout adds $400 for residential delivery.
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Always click through to the final total.
🚩 4. Refurbished or “Open Box”
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Sellers may advertise “like new” systems — but manufacturer warranties usually don’t apply to anything except brand-new equipment.
🚩 5. No Warranty Mention
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If the listing doesn’t clearly state a manufacturer’s warranty, assume it’s not covered.
Remember: if it feels too good to be true, it probably is.
💡 Tools & Resources to Verify Competitors
Luckily, you don’t have to play detective alone. There are trusted tools to help you confirm whether a competitor price is legit:
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Manufacturer Dealer Locators
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Example: Goodman’s Find a Dealer.
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Confirms if the seller is authorized.
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ENERGY STAR Product Finder
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Verify model numbers and efficiency ratings: ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
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Better Business Bureau (BBB)
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Look up the company’s profile for complaints or red flags: BBB.org.
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Consumer Reports
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They’ve published warnings about HVAC scams and online sales risks (Consumer Reports HVAC buying guide).
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Energy.gov Resources
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Learn about standard efficiency ranges and maintenance costs to spot abnormal pricing (Energy.gov).
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Use these tools, and you’ll never second-guess whether a competitor’s listing is real.
📊 Why This Matters for Price Matching
Here’s why all of this detail is worth your time:
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Claim approval speed – Submitting a legit competitor price means your claim gets approved quickly (often within 24 hours).
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Warranty protection – Only authorized listings ensure your manufacturer warranty stays intact.
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Time savings – Focusing only on legit listings saves you from wasting time chasing invalid “deals.”
Think of it this way: the Lowest Price Guarantee is designed to work in your favor, but it works fastest when you’re comparing apples to apples.
🛠️ Real-World Example: Legit vs. Shady
Let’s compare two fictional listings of the same model:
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Listing A: Legit
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Goodman GSXH503610 condenser
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Price: $4,000 (includes freight delivery)
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In stock now
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Authorized dealer listed on Goodman’s site
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Warranty: 10-year parts warranty stated clearly
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Listing B: Shady
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Goodman GSXH503610 condenser
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Price: $3,200 (looks cheap)
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Checkout adds $400 freight + $150 “residential delivery” fee
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Seller not listed as authorized dealer
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No mention of warranty
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Which one qualifies for the Lowest Price Guarantee? ✅ Listing A.
Which one could leave you stuck with a $3,200 paperweight and no warranty? ❌ Listing B.
🌟 Savvy’s Wrap-Up: Smart Shopping Wins Every Time
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to be a detective to get the best HVAC price. You just need the right checklist.
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Do check: model numbers, shipping, stock status, authorized dealer status.
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Don’t fall for: prices that are way below average, missing warranty details, or hidden fees.
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Use tools: BBB, ENERGY STAR, and manufacturer locators.
Because comfort is priceless — but peace of mind while buying it shouldn’t cost extra.
In the next topic we will know more about: Does a Lowest Price Guarantee Affect Financing or Warranties?
