Webb site shut down / highly modified...

Chris_82

Recently totally revamped their site, because of industry pressure, it seems that when you tell it like it is about a particular brand of equipment an open mind should be left at the door. The almighty buck rules and censorship of all types is practiced there, it's not just a foul mouth issue, and it seems that more than a few individuals were getting in touch with others with defective products and passing lawyers names back and forth. It seems one particular manufacturer was concerned that their profit was being hurt by the truth. And another manufacturer was concerned that "a product recall notice," was posted. Of course they say that they were being bombarded with spam and unruly individuals. But after glancing at what was removed you could plainly see a pattern. And the phone call from a concerned individual was politely confirmed by the editor trying to pacify paying (alleged) advertisers, you should be more careful about how you guys give out info on the phone!!! I certainly know what side of the fence your on!!! And it’s not the working man!!!

I guess this begs the question of what is private on the internet versus what isn't. There is a public nature and a private concern, something to think about anyways. Web sites that appear free and open...that are anything but! Thank you Dan for putting up with me, and others; but HVAC-Talk is clearly a mouthpiece for their business in sheep’s clothing.

jackchips_2

We play

on someones field with their ball it should be by their rules.

I have no problem with that.

Jack

ALH_4

advertisers

The site owner obviously has the right to make the rules. I am sure we can all understand the reluctance of a manufacturer to advertise on a website where their products are being maligned. However, advertisers are free to post on the site and refute any negative comments.

I feel a post about a product failure that is properly handled by the manufacturer can be far more positive than no discussion at all.

Constantin

It's always been that way...

When Don Sleeth was running the site, any mention of HVAC-Calc that was not a glowing review was deleted, the author's posting privileges rescinded.

Even innocent questions about HVAC-Calc were considered taboo (i.e. how do you account for multi-level stairwells). Mr. Sleeth feared that questions could turn off potential customers... but if he doesn't cover it in his manual nor respond to questions by e-mail in a timely manner, what is a HO to do?

So, I guess I am not surprised to hear that the new site operators (having purchased the place a year or two ago) are putting on their own spin re: posting privileges.

And that's the thing: It's their site, their policy, etc. so if you don't like it, then move on. There are many great HVAC-sites out there, and the arrogant site operators will eventually kill their golden geese by driving away their customers.