Things You'll Need:
- A computer
- Internet connection
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Step 1
Look at security. Our surveys tell us the security of a website is the #1 priority of online customers. Be sure you look at the security of the website you are dealing with. Thawte and Verisign are the two major providers of online security verification. Don't just trust a website because it displays these logos. Anyone can place logos on their pages (just like I have done here). If the site is secure you will be able to verify that by clicking the logos. Think about it, do you really want to do business with a company that would mislead consumers about their security?
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Step 2
Look for other 3rd party logos. If a site displays additional clickable logos it is just another way to be sure you are dealing with a reliable company. Some examples are TRUSTe, Authorize.Net Verified Merchant, McAfeeSecure, buysafe, ControlScan, just to name a few.
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Step 3
Look at the longevity of the company. Make sure they are honest about the years they have been in business. You can go to www.manta.com and quickly verify how long the company has been in existence.
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Step 4
Look at a company's reputation. The Better Business Bureau Online is an excellent resource for valuable information about a business. If a company is not listed, or cannot be found, you need to consider why. The Better Business Bureau offers online customers a valuable service.
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Step 5
Look at a company's return policy. It is not uncommon to find online retailers offering a 30 day money back guarantee...this is a good thing. Be sure to notice how that guarantee is worded. Are there stipulations or requirements? Make sure they include a reasonable refund policy. When a company says they will not refund your money after a short period of time, this should be a red flag. Customer satisfaction is a large part of the culture of some companies, and absent in others.
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Step 6
Look at experience. If you are buying a central vacuum system online you may need to call on the company for tech support. Make sure the company you buy from has plenty of customer referrals and examples of completed installations. Look for an installation resume, and don't be afraid to call and ask for references...better yet...call the manufacturer of the product you are considering and make sure they recommend the company selling the product. Unfortunately for the consumer, because a website says they are an authorized reseller doesn't make it so.
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Step 7
Look at tech support. Make sure you can get the information you need about the products you are buying. On the website you want to see an 800 number, manufacturer's pdfs, manuals, how to's, blogs, etc.
Comments
Thims said
on 9/27/2008 Great info. Lot's of details for a glorified imbibed vortex. I'd like to see an ehow on why "vacuum" is spelled with two "U's?" ;-)