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Audrey Vance Lead Product Specialist

Buying a heating and cooling system is a major financial investment, but the transaction doesn't end when you click "Checkout." That is where Audrey Vance steps in. As the Lead Product & Logistics Specialist at Budget Heating, Audrey serves as the vital link between our massive inventory and your driveway. She operates at the intersection of supply chain management and consumer protection, ensuring that the equipment you buy is not only the best value for your money but that it arrives safely, on time, and fully protected.

The Logistics General

Shipping a 300-pound condenser isn't like mailing a letter; it requires a complex dance of LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight carriers, liftgates, and coordination. Audrey manages this chaos with military precision. She has developed Budget Heating’s rigorous "Safe-Ship" protocols, which dictate exactly how units must be strapped, palletized, and wrapped to survive the journey across the country.

Her goal is to eliminate the "delivery day nightmare." Audrey writes extensively on what homeowners need to know about curbside delivery, teaching them how to inspect a Bill of Lading and spot hidden shipping damage before the driver leaves—saving our customers thousands of dollars in potential headaches.

The Warranty Guardian

Audrey is the team's foremost authority on manufacturer warranties. In an industry where one missed deadline can cost a homeowner 5 years of coverage, Audrey acts as a vigilant guide. She knows the fine print of every Goodman, Rheem, and Mitsubishi policy by heart.

She is passionate about educating customers on the "60-Day Rule"—the critical window during which equipment must be registered to secure the full 10-year parts warranty. Her guides demystify the registration process, explaining clearly why professional installation is required to keep those warranties valid and how to document your install to protect your investment.

The "Scratch & Dent" Value Hunter

Audrey manages one of the most popular sections of our business: the Scratch & Dent inventory. She has a keen eye for value, categorizing units that have minor cosmetic blemishes but perfect internal mechanics.

  • The Philosophy: "A dent on the back of the cabinet doesn't change how cold the air is."
  • The Benefit: She helps budget-conscious homeowners secure top-tier, high-efficiency systems for 20-40% below retail price.

She personally oversees the grading process for these units, ensuring that a "cosmetic" issue is truly just cosmetic, so customers can buy with total confidence.

The Financial Strategist

Beyond just the price tag, Audrey helps customers navigate the evolving landscape of HVAC economics. She stays ahead of the curve on federal incentives, including the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and 25C Tax Credits for high-efficiency heat pumps. She breaks down the math on SEER2 ratings, helping customers calculate exactly how long it will take for a higher-efficiency unit to pay for itself in utility savings.

Why Listen to Audrey?

While Mike and Derek focus on the nuts, bolts, and physics, Audrey focuses on you. She is the consumer advocate who ensures you aren't overpaying, that you are fully protected by your warranty, and that your equipment arrives in pristine condition. When you read her advice, you are getting the inside scoop on how to be a smarter, safer, and more protected buyer in the HVAC market.

Talk to an expert: call us at 813-885-7999 or Request a Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if my shipment arrives damaged?

    Inspect every box before the driver leaves. If you see dents, tears, or crushed corners, you must note "DAMAGED" on the delivery receipt (Bill of Lading). If the damage looks severe, refuse that specific piece and call us immediately. We can't file a claim for you if you sign for it as "clear."

  • How do I register my equipment warranty?

    You must register your new system on the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Goodman or Rheem) within 60 days of installation. You will need the model numbers, serial numbers, and the date of installation. If you skip this step, your 10-year parts warranty often defaults to a 5-year standard warranty.

  • Does "Scratch & Dent" equipment still have a warranty?

    Yes. Our Scratch & Dent inventory only has cosmetic blemishes—the internal components are brand new. Because the machine has never been installed, it carries the full manufacturer's functional warranty, just like a pristine unit. It is the best way to save money if you don't mind a ding on the cabinet.

  • What is the difference between SEER and SEER2?

    SEER2 is the new federal efficiency standard that took effect in 2023. The testing conditions are stricter to better simulate real-world ductwork pressure. Practically speaking, a 14.3 SEER2 unit is roughly equivalent to an old 15 SEER unit. It ensures you get the efficiency you are actually paying for.

  • Will the delivery driver bring the unit into my garage?

    No. These units ship via LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight, which is "curbside delivery" only. The driver will use a liftgate to lower the pallet to the ground at the end of your driveway, but insurance regulations prevent them from moving it inside your home or garage.

  • Can I get a tax credit for installing a new heat pump?

    Likely, yes. Under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), high-efficiency heat pumps often qualify for the 25C tax credit, which can cover up to 30% of the project cost (capped at $2,000 per year). I recommend checking the CEE Directory to ensure the specific model you want qualifies.

  • What happens if I order the wrong size equipment?

    You can return it, but it is costly. Because these are heavy freight items, you will be responsible for the return shipping costs and a restocking fee. This is why we stress performing a Manual J load calculation before you buy—measuring twice saves you hundreds of dollars.

  • Why do you sell Goodman equipment so heavily?

    Dollar for dollar, Goodman offers the best value in the industry. They are owned by Daikin (the world's largest HVAC manufacturer) and use the same internal components—like Copeland scroll compressors—as brands that cost twice as much. Their warranty protection is also industry-leading.

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