DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’m in need of a wood floor refinisher. If you have a list of contractors in the Auburn area, would you share it please? — Cindy, no town
ANSWER: In the Rolodex, I have TW Flooring in Auburn (https://twflooring207.com/, 207-241-1606); B & D Floor Sanding in South Portland (https://www.bdfloorsanding.com/, 207-553-0320); and B & L Hardwood Floors (http://www.blhardwoodfloors.com/, 512-578-5056) in Topsham. Years ago, I hired B & L to sand and stain a new wood floor on my enclosed porch. They did a wonderful job and I would definitely use them again.
Send any other recommendations my way!
DEAR SUN SPOTS: Last May, I discovered that my electric bill was double, or more, what several of my friends and relatives, with similar homes and lifestyles, were paying. I called CMP and they suggested I unplug all my lamps and small appliances not being used at that moment.
In the past year, I have unplugged my electric water heater (I transitioned from oil to natural gas which now heats my water), box freezer, clothes dryer and dishwasher.
I use exclusively LED light bulbs and have removed several from my ceiling fans so there’s only one in each. There is still no difference in my electric bill. I have a heat pump, but have refrained from using it except for 8-10 days during the heat waves this summer when it was set at 77/78 degrees. I did not use it last winter.
After CMP tested my meter, they reported it’s running at 99.9% accuracy. They also sent me a breaker test that involves going to the cellar and turning off all the breaker switches, turning one on at a time then checking the bars on the meter until all the breakers have been checked.
I’ve called electric companies and individual electricians to do an audit to see how and where I am using/losing electricity but have had no success. Do you have suggestions for someone who does electricity audits in the Lewiston area and how much it costs? — Jean, Lewiston
ANSWER: It sounds like you’ve been through a lot and have done everything you can. I’m sure you’ve heard that thousands of CMP customers are struggling with utility pricing as you are and I imagine you are up on all the news about the situation.
The only thing I can suggest to you (and am repeating this from the Sept. 29 Sun Spots in case you didn’t see it), is that you contact Efficiency Maine in Augusta (https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/energy-audit/) through its website, email info@efficiencymaine.com, or call 1-866-367-2463. I have used this resource a few times and have had great results with finding just what I needed. Contractors in your area along with the services they provide and DIY tips are listed on the site.
Another resource for Androscoggin and Oxford counties is Community Concepts (https://www.ccimaine.org/HomeEnergyImprovement, 1-800-866-5588).
If readers have recommendations for energy assessment services or other energy-saving tips, please share them.
This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
