"SQLit" wrote in message
news:2XPTc.37685$Lj.22525@fed1read03...

"Bill & Debbie" wrote in message
...
I'm purchasing a replacement for my failed A/C system. The contractor
has
guaranteed in writing that I will realize a 30% savings in my electric
bill.
The amount being saved will be calculated at the end of the year by
comparing the energy used during the last year for the old system and
the
energy used during the first year with the new system. If the 30%
savings
is not realized, the installer will give me a check to pay for twice the
difference between what I paid for energy and would have paid if the 30%
savings had been realized. Also, they will make whatever changes are
necessary to ensure that the 30% savings is achieved at no cost to me.

I would appreciate any comments/advice/warnings about this guarantee.

Thanks in advance for your help,
Bill

Have you checked with other installers, price wise? Sounds to me like a
deliberate over charge to you. He keeps the money for a year, gains the
interest and disappears just before he is supposed to give you a check.

I would have him post a bond or a cd with your name as copay before
signing
on the bottom line. 30 % is a bunch or not depending on where you live.
Your
utility surely has old data on your usage. The savings figure should be an
easy calculation to figure out.
If it sounds to good it usually is.


Did the installer tie in the savings with the degree day factor? In other
words, if we have a colder winter/hotter summer than before, he's gonna be
paying you the money.