The Truth About “Free Furnace With Purchase of Air Conditioner” Deals

Key Takeaways

• Some HVAC companies advertise “buy-one-get-one-free” deals that tempt customers but are often too good to be true.
• Nothing in HVAC is ever free, and the unit cost is often offset by higher labor costs, additional fees, or higher interest rates. 
• When exploring HVAC offers, always ask for a clear quote that breaks down equipment costs, labor fees, and any additional charges. 
• At Dugan Air, we pride ourselves on offering honest pricing and upfront quotes to help Indiana homeowners make informed decisions about their homes. 

Do “Free Furnace” and BOGO HVAC Deals Really Save You Money?

As you shop around for new HVAC equipment, you might notice some companies advertising a “free furnace with the purchase of an air conditioner.” While this may seem like an offer you can’t pass up, it’s important to understand what you’re really getting with deals like this. 

The furnace they’re installing isn’t actually free. Its cost is simply built in somewhere else. They might only offer this deal if you purchase a high-end AC, increase their labor costs, or add high-interest rates to your financing plan. In this guide, we’ll break down how these “free furnace with AC” deals actually work and what to look for to make sure you’re truly getting the best deal for your HVAC installation.

What Goes Into the Cost of HVAC Installation

When you receive a quote for HVAC installation, you’ll often notice it broken down into several categories. While many homeowners focus on equipment costs, several other factors drive the final price. Understanding the factors that drive HVAC installation costs can help you compare quotes and find the best value for your home. 

When installing new HVAC equipment, expect to see charges for:

• Equipment: The cost of the furnace, air conditioner, ductless system, or heat pump, with prices varying by brand, model, and efficiency rating. 
• Labor: Installation costs based on the job’s complexity, the time required, and the number of contractors. 
• Ductwork and modifications: If your home’s ductwork requires repairs, replacements, or adjustments, expect additional fees for labor and materials. 
• Permits and inspections: Many HVAC installations require permits and inspections to ensure the job complies with local building codes. 
• Additional components: Equipment such as a thermostat, zoning system, or air filter may be offered as optional add-ons. 
• Labor warranties: HVAC companies often offer extended warranties and service plans to protect your investment and keep your system running in top condition. 

Where the Cost Gets Buried in “Buy One, Get One Free” HVAC Deals

When you see a company advertising a “buy a furnace, get an air conditioner free” HVAC offer, think twice. Technically, you might receive the unit for free, but there’s a hidden cost involved. HVAC companies often require homeowners to purchase the highest-end model of the paired unit and pay elevated labor and installation fees, bringing the total cost in line with what you would pay if you bought both separately. 

Presenting the pricing for both units as a bundle can make it challenging to determine the true cost. The company may simply present a final cost without breaking down line items, making it difficult to identify where the extra charges are hidden. If you’re using a financing plan, they may even tie in higher interest rates that increase your long-term cost. Ultimately, what seems like a “free” unit is often just part of a larger, more expensive package.

What Transparent HVAC Pricing Actually Looks Like

When working with a reputable HVAC company, you should receive a transparent quote that breaks down exactly what you’re paying for. Instead of bundling everything into a single deal, you should see separate, easy-to-understand line items. You’ll see the cost of each unit, labor and installation fees, ductwork modifications, and permit costs broken down one by one. Items such as thermostats and zoning systems should be clearly itemized and presented as add-on options, rather than automatically included in the final price without explanation. 

If you’re financing the installation, the company should provide a clear breakdown of your interest rates, payment schedule, and any associated fees so you can calculate your total costs over time. Keep an eye out for hidden charges or high interest that could end up costing you more in the long run. 

Honest pricing allows homeowners to shop around and compare quotes to make the best decision for their home and budget. It helps build trust with your HVAC contractor, giving you peace of mind that you won’t be charged hidden fees or run into unexpected costs down the line.

Dugan Air’s Stance on “Free Furnace” and “Free AC” Promotions

At Dugan Air, we don’t believe in inflating labor or product pricing to create so-called “freebies.” When you inquire about HVAC installation or replacement with our experts, you’ll receive a clear, itemized quote that breaks down exactly what you’re paying for. Our goal is to build long-term trust with your customers, rather than offer “buy a furnace, get an AC free” promotions that are too good to be true and simply disguise true costs.

Whether you’re looking for a new heater, a new cooling system, or both, we’ll work with you to find the best unit for your household needs and budget. We’ll evaluate your house size, layout, and HVAC needs and walk you through the best options to help you make an informed decision for your Indiana home. If an unexpected issue or additional cost arises during installation, we’ll stop work and clearly communicate the change before continuing. 

How Homeowners Can Protect Themselves When Evaluating HVAC Promotions

As you explore HVAC promotions, do your due diligence to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Always ask for the contractor’s credentials and get a clear, itemized quote that breaks down the cost of all equipment, labor, and additional fees. If they refuse to provide a detailed breakdown, take it as a red flag. 

Before moving forward with an offer, shop around and get at least three estimates from different companies to compare pricing, equipment, and warranties. With clear information, you can make an informed decision and avoid overpaying for a deal that may not be as good as it seems.

Contact Dugan Air to receive a Clear, Upfront HVAC Quote

Considering an HVAC upgrade? Contact our team today to receive a free, no-obligation quote that breaks down your costs upfront. We’ll help you understand your options, compare heating and cooling systems, and find a solution that fits your budget, without hidden fees or unexpected surprises. 

With decades of experience providing top-quality HVAC services for Indiana homeowners, you can count on our team to deliver reliable, professional service that’s free of gimmicks. We pride ourselves on delivering clear communication, honest pricing, and five-star solutions that enhance your home’s comfort and efficiency. For more information, contact us online.

Dan Dugan

President
Dan Dugan is the President and co-owner of Dugan Air Heating & Cooling. A licensed HVAC professional with over 25 years of industry experience, Dan brings extensive technical expertise and leadership to the company he and Sue founded in 2009. He remains deeply involved in training, innovation, and maintaining the company’s reputation for integrity-driven service across Central Indiana.