NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) – Monday is day 24 of temperatures above 100-degrees in North Texas and the weather is putting a strain on all of our air conditioning units.

Increased usage also increases the likelihood of breakdowns, but the Better Business Bureau of Dallas warns that it’s ‘buyer beware’ when it comes to finding a repair company.

When trying to avoid a/c scam artists Jeannette Kopko, with the BBB, says the first thing you should do is make sure the company has a permanent address.

Kopko also recommends that consumers, “Beware if there is high pressure, like ‘Oh, we came out to check this particular problem but we see some additional problems that if you don’t correct them your ceilings going to fall in or your family’s health is in danger’.”

Experts say another scam ‘red flag’ is when a repair person says the estimate cost is just for today or they will accept cash only or want the money upfront.

“If you are working with an established business they should have parts available, a line of credit to get parts, they should not have to ask you to pay up front in cash for parts to start the job,” said Kopko.

The BBB also recommends that you don’t accept the first estimate. They say it’s always good to get a second or third opinion.