I am writing this review with sadness and deep disappointment. I bought the Hitachi Windows AC QC-RAV518HTD and spent more than Rs. 34000 thinking that I’ll be getting best out of it. There were other brands available for about 22000.
First, it started with Croma. In their product listing at https://cromaretail.com, they show free installation and their price was 34, 600. I saw the same product on the Hitachi website and there it was for 33, 735+ Installation.
I went with Croma and bought it for 34, 600. It was delivered next day to me. I was very happy with the delivery speed. But, The delivery person demanded Rs. 200 to bring the AC from ground floor to First Floor. I had to fight with him that the cost which I have paid includes delivery at my doorstep and after a lot of debate, he got ready to deliver at home.
But then, no installation for next 9 days. I kept calling every day to their customer care but of no use. On 9th day, I got a call from Hitachi Service Center that they want to come to install the AC and they mentioned there will be additional Rs. 550 for installation. I mentioned it was included in the pricing on Croma, they simply denied it.
I called up Croma, the stupid customer care executives had no clue and they said that the standard installation charges will be applied. All the explanation, reference and price difference between Croma site and Hitachi site, everything went useless to make them understand. I was fed up. I just wanted to get over with this.
I called up Service center guys and asked them to come and install the AC. I got ready to pay Rs. 550.
Now, the matter didn’t end here. They came and took the size of the window where the AC was supposed to be installed. It was well sized and was specially built for installing 1.5 ton AC. They now said that there is about 0.5 inch extra space in the width of Window and hence then need to put some wood material and hence, it will cost Rs. 250 more.
This was like enough is enough. It was like they were thinking I am using AC for the first time. I was really surprised how Hitachi Service Center was treating their customer. I was and I am still furious.
I had to say, just do it and rest I’ll take care in consumer forum. Then their manager called me and offered a discount of Rs. 100. I accepted that too.
But matter did not end here, the installation guys get away with the water dispenser which was provided with the AC. They literally cheated us for that and theft it and took it away with them.
I am fumed, furious and feeling cheated badly by Croma, Hitachi and their Service Center. I am in 100% plan to file legal case against them in District Consumer Forum and will make sure that they learn how to deal with customers.
Also, I have committed to myself that I WILL not buy any more product from Croma or from Hitachi ever in my life.