Temperatures this summer seem higher than ever, causing local residents and businesses to run their air conditioners more often and their power bills to increase. This is a good reminder that it’s time to hire a reputable air conditioning contractor to make sure your unit is running at peak efficiency. However, choosing an air conditioning contractor from the many listed in the phonebook is not always simple.

Following are tips from LCEC to help you locate a reputable air conditioning contractor:

1.      Choose several contractors from referrals and obtain detailed, written estimates from each one.

a.       Make sure the estimates include:

­  A list of the exact parts it will take to complete the job

­  An estimate of the length of time it will take to complete the job

­  The total cost

2.      Make sure the contractor is licensed, and determine how long the company has been in business. Ask for references.

3.      Beware of contractors who arrive in unmarked vans or trucks.

4.      Be suspicious of a contractor who offers the fastest or cheapest job or who pressures you to “act now.”

5.      It’s wise to watch the contractor while he or she works on your system to become more familiar with the equipment.

6.      Contact LCEC certified Energy Advisors for a FREE energy audit of your home which includes a review of your AC system and duct work.

For more information, call LCEC at 656-2300, or visit us at www.lcec.net.

Established in 1940, Lee County Electric Cooperative, Inc. (LCEC) is a not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative serving Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Marco Island, Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Pine Island, Everglades City, Immokalee, Ave Maria, and parts of Lehigh Acres.  LCEC is one of the largest employers in Lee County with more than 350 employees. Among the charitable agencies LCEC supports through volunteerism and corporate sponsorship include the United Way, American Heart Association, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement and local school districts. People. Power. Possibilities. Delivering the Power that Energizes our Community. Learn more about LCEC online at www.lcec.net

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