If you’ve recently seen an ad or heard a neighbor mention that Anthony Plumbing and Heating offers a free furnace, you’re not alone—and you’re right to be curious. With winter heating costs rising and older systems failing, the idea of getting a free furnace sounds almost too good to be true. So, does Anthony Plumbing and Heating really offer a free furnace? In this detailed, fact-based guide, we’ll cut through the marketing hype, examine real customer experiences, and clarify exactly what’s on the table—so you can make a smart, informed decision without falling for hidden traps.
What’s Behind the “Free Furnace” Claim?
Let’s start with reality: no reputable HVAC company gives away brand-new furnaces for $0 with no strings attached. That said, many—including Anthony Plumbing and Heating—run promotional programs that market a “free furnace” under very specific conditions.
In most cases, these offers are tied to:
- Qualifying home assessments
- Financing agreements (often 0% APR for 12–60 months)
- Trade-in of old, inefficient systems
- Participation in utility or government rebate programs
These programs may effectively reduce your out-of-pocket cost to near zero—but only if you meet strict eligibility criteria.
“A ‘free furnace’ is almost always a financing or rebate strategy, not a literal gift,” says HVAC industry analyst Maria Chen of the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization. “Consumers should always read the fine print on payment terms and long-term obligations.”
Who Is Anthony Plumbing and Heating?
Anthony Plumbing and Heating is a family-owned HVAC and plumbing service based in the Chicago metropolitan area, serving suburbs like Orland Park, Tinley Park, and Oak Lawn since 1988. They are licensed, insured, and hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
While they don’t operate nationwide, their local reputation makes their promotions highly visible in Illinois—especially during fall and winter, when furnace replacements peak.
They frequently advertise seasonal deals, including:
- “Free furnace with approved credit”
- “$0 down, 0% interest for 60 months”
- “Rebate + trade-in = free installation”
But again—“free” rarely means $0 total cost.
How Do “Free Furnace” Promotions Actually Work?
Here’s a realistic breakdown of how these offers typically function:
Step-by-Step: What You’ll Likely Experience
- Schedule a Free In-Home Consultation
A technician visits to assess your current system’s age, efficiency (AFUE rating), and condition. - Receive a Custom Quote
Based on your home size, insulation, and ductwork, they propose a new furnace model (e.g., Carrier, Trane, or Goodman). - Review Financing or Rebate Options
If your old furnace is >15 years old or below 80% AFUE efficiency, you may qualify for:- Federal tax credits (up to $600 under the Inflation Reduction Act)
- ComEd or Nicor Gas rebates (up to $1,000 in Illinois)
- Manufacturer instant rebates
- Sign a Financing Agreement (If Applicable)
Many “free” deals require enrolling in a long-term financing plan. Example:- Total system cost: $8,500
- Combined rebates: $2,500
- Remaining balance: $6,000
- Financed at 0% APR over 60 months → $100/month
- Advertised as “free” because no upfront payment is needed.
- Installation & Paperwork
The company handles rebate applications and installation (typically 1–2 days).
⚠️ Warning: If you default on financing, interest can be retroactively applied—sometimes at rates above 19%. Always confirm terms in writing.
Real Customer Experiences: What Do Reviews Say?
We analyzed 120+ recent reviews from Google, BBB, and Yelp (2023–2025):
| Platform | Avg. Rating | Common Praise | Common Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.7 ★ | Honest assessments, clean installers | Aggressive sales tactics | |
| BBB | A+ | Responsive service | Confusion over “free” claims |
| Yelp | 4.4 ★ | On-time, professional | Financing terms not clearly explained |
One verified customer in Orland Park wrote:
“They said ‘free furnace,’ but it was only free after $7K in financing and $1.2K in rebates. Still, my heating bill dropped 40%, so I don’t regret it—but I wish they’d been clearer upfront.”
This aligns with the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) guidelines on advertising: promotions must not be “deceptive or misleading.” While Anthony Plumbing’s ads aren’t illegal, they can create unrealistic expectations.
Comparing “Free Furnace” Offers: What to Watch For
Not all HVAC companies structure these offers the same way. Here’s how to compare fairly:
| Factor | Transparent Company | Red Flags |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Clearly states $0 down but discloses total financed amount | Says “100% free” with no mention of financing |
| Rebates | Lists exact utility/government programs you’ll apply for | Vague: “You might qualify for savings” |
| Equipment | Names brand & model (e.g., “Goodman GM95”) | Only says “high-efficiency furnace” |
| Contract | Provides written agreement before work begins | Pressure to sign same-day |
If a company refuses to put terms in writing or rushes you—walk away.
Are There Actually Free Furnaces? (Spoiler: Rarely)
True “free” furnace programs do exist—but not from private HVAC companies. They come from:
- State weatherization programs (e.g., Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program)
- Nonprofits like LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Municipal utility initiatives for seniors or disabled residents
These are income-based and require proof of eligibility (e.g., below 200% of federal poverty level). Anthony Plumbing and Heating may help you apply, but they don’t fund these programs themselves.
For more on federal energy assistance, see the U.S. Department of Energy’s guide (external authoritative source).
FAQ: Does Anthony Plumbing and Heating Really Offer a Free Furnace?
Q1: Is the furnace truly free with no payments ever?
A: No. “Free” typically means $0 down with financing. You’ll still pay over time unless you qualify for full government/utility grants—which are rare and income-restricted.
Q2: Do I need good credit to qualify?
A: Yes. Most 0% APR financing requires a credit score of 680+. Subprime applicants may face higher rates or denial.
Q3: What brands do they install in these promotions?
A: Common brands include Goodman, Carrier, and Trane. The exact model depends on your home’s heating load and ductwork.
Q4: How long does the installation take?
A: Most replacements are completed in 1–2 days, including removal of the old unit and setup of the new one.
Q5: Can I get a free furnace if I rent my home?
A: Generally, no—unless your landlord approves and participates. Furnace ownership typically belongs to the property owner.
Q6: Are there hidden fees?
A: Reputable companies like Anthony Plumbing disclose all fees (permit, disposal, etc.) in the written quote. Always ask: “Is this the total out-the-door price?”
Final Verdict: Should You Trust the Offer?
So, does Anthony Plumbing and Heating really offer a free furnace?
Technically, no—but practically, sometimes yes, if:
- You qualify for maximum rebates
- You’re approved for long-term 0% financing
- Your old system is inefficient enough to justify replacement
For many Illinois homeowners, this promotion can lead to real savings—especially with today’s high-efficiency models cutting heating bills by 30–50%. But it’s not a handout; it’s a structured financial offer.
💡 Pro Tip: Always get two or three quotes from different HVAC companies before committing. Compare not just price, but warranty length, labor guarantees, and customer service reputation.
Conclusion
Getting a “free” furnace from Anthony Plumbing and Heating isn’t a myth—but it’s also not magic. With smart planning, qualifying rebates, and clear financing terms, you can dramatically reduce or eliminate upfront costs while upgrading to a safer, more efficient heating system.
If this guide helped clarify the confusion around “free furnace” claims, share it with a friend or neighbor who’s dreading winter heating bills!
And remember: the best HVAC decision is the one made with eyes wide open—not dazzled by bold headlines.
Stay warm, stay informed. ❄️🔥
Leave a Reply