Sherwood Park residents are sounding the alarm after a local heating and air conditioning company appears to have closed its doors while continuing to charge monthly subscription fees.

Customers of Spark Heating & Air Conditioning say they have been unable to reach the company for days or even weeks. The storefront has reportedly been locked, and phone calls and service requests have gone unanswered. Despite the apparent closure, the company's website continues to promote round-the-clock service and online booking.

The frustration is mounting as residents report ongoing monthly charges for furnace and air conditioning maintenance plans. One customer told the Sherwood Park News that their credit card provider refunded the most recent payment and blocked future charges after repeated attempts to contact the company failed.

The Better Business Bureau Serving Alberta and East Kootenay advises consumers that when a service is not delivered, there is a process to dispute charges. Industry professionals recommend first attempting to resolve issues directly with the merchant. If a company is unresponsive, that lack of contact can strengthen a dispute claim.

Credit card companies may issue temporary credits during investigations and can permanently reverse charges if disputes are upheld.

Spark Heating is part of MechCan Inc., an Ontario-based HVAC consolidator that has acquired multiple mechanical companies across Canada.

Residents affected by this situation are encouraged to contact their credit card providers and the Better Business Bureau for assistance.