Equitable Gas, Peoples Gas and Air Conditioning Contractors of America announce 25th annual free furnace check program for pre-selected low-income families
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- For 25 years, skilled volunteers from the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) have helped low-income families and seniors maintain safe heating equipment. Since 1988, the organization has partnered with local natural gas utility companies for the annual free furnace check program. Approximately 1,880 local homes have been served over the program's history.
"At ACCA we know how important it is to have a safe and reliable furnace for our long Pittsburgh winters," said Pat Forker, executive director of ACCA. "We wanted to help our neighbors who could not afford to have their furnaces serviced be warm and safe. Thank you to our local gas utility companies for joining us over the last 25 years helping the elderly and low-income homeowners."
Rudy Benedetti has volunteered to assist with the free furnace check program for all 25 years. "When this program began, it was amazing how many people needed this service and couldn't afford it," said Mr. Benedetti. "They were using unsafe heating practices and I said 'Let's do something.' This program is still helping the people who need the help."
| WHO: |
55 pre-selected low-income seniors and disabled homeowners in Allegheny County |
| Equitable Gas, Peoples Gas |
|
| Air Conditioning Contractors of America, Western PA Chapter |
|
| WHAT: |
ACCA contractors partner with local gas utilities to provide pre-selected homeowners with free furnace cleanings, safety inspections, and limited repairs. Equitable Gas and Peoples Gas chose the eligible residents based on established low-income eligibility guidelines, and will help defray the cost of minor furnace repairs. |
| Every participating household also receives conservation tips and education. This information helps them manage utility costs throughout the year. |
|
| WHEN: |
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 |
| WHERE: |
ACCA heating contractors and associate contractors will clean and check furnaces for safety and efficiency in 55 homes throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. |
| WHY: |
Because of the skilled labor and costs associated with furnace maintenance, many elderly and disabled homeowners have difficulty affording the cost of routine upkeep for their heating systems. The complimentary service provided by local ACCA members on their annual Community Service day helps these low-income residents safely stay warm during the winter months. |
All ACCA volunteer furnace inspectors will be wearing special identification when they arrive at customers' homes, but Equitable Gas and Peoples Gas remind participants that they can call their respective natural gas company to confirm the inspection before admitting a furnace inspector into their home.
SOURCE Peoples Natural Gas
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