APPERSON ON ENERGY- Is the free estimate really free?  In the
past in this space we have discussed the issue of companies
coming into our area from out of town and proposing to sell
something or repair something that could be done by our local
craftsmen. I ran across another of these situations and I'd like
to bring it to your attention. There is a company using the
telephone to find interested homeowners. They call and ask if
you would like a "free" energy audit, or a "no cost" safety
inspection of your heating and cooling equipment. Sometimes they
lead people to believe they are working with the local utility
company and sometimes not.  Since a lot of people respond to
something that is free, and because most homeowners are curious
if their home is energy efficient, and especially if safety is
involved, they say yes to their offer. An appointment is then
set.  An interesting tip-off of their possible intentions at
this point is if they ask for both husband and wife to be
present. Because their ultimate goal