By Dawn Krebs

dkrebs@hometownnewsol.com

PORT ST. LUCIE - The name Excel Air Conditioning and Heating says it all.

"It's to be very good at something," said owner Nigel Jardine. "And that's who we are and what we believe in."

With that in mind, the family owned business tirelessly works to give the best-quality service and education to area residents.

While this year has been a tough one economically for business, it doesn't deter from Mr. Jardine's commitment to his customers.

"It has been challenging," he said. "But by continuing to give a high-quality level of service, we've been able to stay successful."

Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, having been awarded a "silver status" by a major manufacturer.

Mr. Jardine has a six-member staff who work 24- hours-a day, seven days a week.

"When someone calls that needs help, they get me and not a recording," he said. "I personally answer the phone after hours."

That's because Mr. Jardine recognizes air-conditioning emergencies aren't always between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. With that in mind, he offers full emergency service.

"When your air conditioner goes out here in Florida, it's a big deal," he said. "To our customers, we're the 'fourth emergency' call they would make, behind the police, fire and the ambulance. And we are there for them."

With more than 20 years in business, the company has more than 100 years of combined experience among staff. They use that experience to help customers understand the latest air-conditioning technology. "A lot of people are now looking for greener technology," he said. "So we have been offering air conditioners that meet that need, featuring low greenhouse gas emissions, and higher efficiency. Some of our customers can save 60 percent to 70 percent off of their electric bills."

Another newer technology is cleaner air inside the home.

"My staff does continuous training specializing in indoor air quality," he said. "We want to help the customers who have allergy or breathing concerns."

The company has even produced an educational DVD that address indoor air quality questions that customers might have.

For those who want to improve their air conditioning system, but can't afford it, Excel Air Conditioning and Heating also spends a lot of time working with them on maintaining their current system. They even offer a maintenance program, where the company will come out twice a year to check over the customer's existing system.

"We help them get maximum life out of their existing equipment," he said. "We are always working with the customer to meet their needs and their budgets."

By bringing together licensed and insured technicians to offer quality service at fair prices, the business will continue to serve and educate Port St. Lucie residents.

"Our motto is 'getting bigger by being better,'" Mr. Jardine said. "And we are consistently working to stay the best in the business."

Excel Air Conditioning and Heating is located at 1610 S.E. Village Green Drive in Port St. Lucie and is open 24-hours-a day, seven days a week. For more information, call (772) 340-7900 or go online to www.excelac.com.