The Better Business Bureau of Central Florida has seen a dramatic increase in the number of consumers receiving offers of "free home energy surveys." Consumers are contacted via phone and dazzled with promises of tremendous energy savings and large federal rebates and incentives. Once inside the home the salesman encourages the homeowner to "go solar",replacing existing plumbing and appliances with costly solar panels and "energy efficient" appliances. The salesperson is generally less than forthcoming with the total cost of the conversion or the length of time it will take to see actual savings. The goal of the appointment is clearly to sell homeowners appliances and expensive solar energy systems and not providing a true "free energy survey."
BBB encourages consumers to contact your local electric company to ask about a free home energy audit. Most offer rebates and can help consumers take advantage of the current federal incentive programs. If you would like to find out more about solar energy and the possible savings associated with alternative energy, click here. The Florida Solar Energy Center (http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/index.htm), a research institute of the University of Central Florida, provides solar energy calculators as well as non-biased information on the benefits and costs associated with solar and alternative energy sources.
The BBB encourages consumers who are considering this, or any type of major purchase, to not make hasty decisions. You should ask questions and request estimates in writing.
For information on BBB Accredited solar system dealers and equipment sales, click here.