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Jim_12

I'm a Maine homeowner who's tired of relying on a propane space heater and a wood stove for heat. I'm ready to install FHW baseboard heating in my 20 year old gambrel. Had an electrican remove my unused electric baseboards yesterday. So far, out of 3 companies contacted, one has been willing to stop by and give me an estimate. Price quoted seems high, but I have no real standard of comparison.

Q1 - Why is it that it's so hard to get a call back? If they are busy (and with record cold temps, they might be busier than usual) just call and say they can't get to me for a week or a month. But at least have the courtesy to call back, like any true professional would.

Q2 - Since I can have this done anytime before October or November, will I save any significant amount of money by scheduling it for summer?

In the last few days I've learned an enormous amount by just watching and reading this board! Glad to see there are a group of professionals sharing information and passing on the knowledge they gained.

ta finnegan

Answers

Q1: I cannot comment on another man's professionalism, but I can tell you everyone is VERY busy. Making the time for call backs is tough when you have a large customer base who you are trying to satisfy. Personally, even if I cannot come I always call back. Be patient, I know that may not be so easy if you NEED heat, but most of the men in the industry that are good are VERY busy all the time.

Q2: I charge the same price for installing systems in July as I do in January. I am busy and so are the good guys in Maine. If you get a guy who is willing to substantially drop his price because it is summer, I would be worried about him being around in the winter to give you service.

You almost always get what you pay for.

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Al Letellier

Maine homeowner

Jim, your name rings a bell with me....are you the same JM that I spent my Scouting years with in Biddeford???
I'm a heating contractor in So. Portland. If you're anywhere near, give me a call. Look us up in find- a- contractor section here.
We are all very busy. there are over 1200 job vacancies in the heating trades in N. New England. But you're right...there is no excuse for not returning a phone call. It's simply unprofessional.
Scheduling now for a job this summer probably won't save you money, most of us are booked that far in advance, but it will get you a heating system before next winter.
Give us a call even if you're out of the area. Maybe we can direct you to a real pro.
Al Letellier

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