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Biofuel is a type of fuel that is produced using renewable sources, such as animal fats, plant-based oils and algae material. Biofuel offers a number of advantages over traditional fossil fuels, like petroleum and natural gas, particularly in terms of its impact on the environment. Specifically, it is biodegradable and burns more cleanly, which means it produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Given these environmental benefits, the blending of biofuel has been mandated by the state government. Heating oil distributors receive certain monetary credits for blending #2 heating oil with biofuel. The maximum recommended blend of biofuel by heating equipment manufacturers is 20%.
Because of the potential financial gain, however, many local heating oil delivery companies have begun blending a percentage of biofuel that far exceeds this recommendation.
For instance, there are several local heating oil distributors that are blending over 50% or higher. There is even one local heating oil distributor that owns a biofuel manufacturing plant that is blending 80% - and all in an attempt to increase their monetary gain. As usual, money and greed are a driving factor. Why should this matter to you? Because too much biofuel – even with all of its many benefits – can have a negative impact on your heating system. Specifically, because biofuel is not the same as #2 heating oil, it does not have the same viscosity of output BTUs. A blend of biofuel over 20% can actually cause oil heating equipment to burn dirty and foul the burning process. Keep in mind that damages caused by this are not typically covered by the manufacturer or the service company that maintains your heating equipment. To prevent costly surprises and protect your investment, should contact your heating oil distributer and ask specifically what percentage their blend is. (This must also be noted on the oil delivery slip provided by your delivery company.) Don’t take chances when it comes to your home’s heating system. Contact us today and get more than just a warm home. Get clean air and peace of mind.
Buying a new air conditioning unit can seem like a big expense. Wouldn’t it just be easier and less expensive to just continue maintaining and repairing your current one? Not necessarily. In fact, when you consider the many long term benefits a new A/C unit can have, both for your comfort as well as your wallet, the decision to upgrade becomes much easier. If you’re still on the fence, here are four ways investing in a new A/C unit could provide significant savings in the long run.

Energy Efficiency

The Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute rates the efficiency of central air conditioning systems by what’s referred to as a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio – or SEER for short. Generally speaking, the higher the SEER, the less electricity the system needs to do its job. To put things into perspective, modern energy-efficient A/C units feature SEERs of up to 25, whereas older units rate as low as 10. What this means for those with older units is that they are using far more energy than is necessary to cool their homes. As a result, they are spending a lot more on their utility bills. Over time, those extra costs can really add up.

R-22 Refrigerant

A/C and heat pump units using R-22 refrigerant were banned by the EPA in the year 2010.  As a result manufacturers redesigned A/C and heat pump systems to use R410A refrigerant.  The EPA also implemented a phase out on the production and import of R22 refrigerant for servicing existing equipment. By January 1, 2020 R22 refrigerant will be completely phased out.  No new or imported R22 will be allowed in the United States.  Every year since the phase out has started R22 refrigerant becomes more and more expensive if you need a repair. At the end of this year when no more R22 refrigerant can be acquired and once the supply finally runs out you will have no other choice than to either replace your existing equipment or go without air conditioning.

Fewer Repairs

Logically speaking, the longer you operate an air conditioning unit, the more wear and tear it’ll rack up. This results in the need for additional ongoing maintenance and more repairs – both of which can prove costly when you add them up over time. In fact, even with a program like our Comfort+Plus Membership, putting money into an older system that’s already running less efficiently and costing you more in energy charges might not be the wisest financial decision. If you find yourself constantly having to call in a technician to fix your current air conditioning system, it might be a sign that it’s time to invest in a newer model. The good news is, modern A/C systems are designed to run efficiently for many years, so you’ll also be investing in peace of mind while you’re at it.

Rebates, Tax Breaks and Zero Percent Loans

Another way newer A/C units can save you money is through rebates, zero percent loans and other tax credits. For instance, there area number of incentives available through local utility companies and other organizations, which can put anywhere from $100 to $1,900 back into your pocket.  Many also offer zero percent loans for installing new energy efficient equipment.  Additionally, tax credits for qualified geothermal systems are also available (not to mention the EPA estimated savings of 20-50% on cooling costs that comes with geothermal technology). The easiest way to determine whether you are eligible for any of these rebates, credits or discounts is to contact an HVAC expert. Get in touch today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you more accurately calculate your true return on investment and get the most bang for your buck. Note: Mass Save rebates do not apply to NH installations as well as a handful of towns in the area that have their own municipalities. NH and the town owned municipalities do offer their own rebates. Call us at 978-433-5373 to discuss rebate options for the towns in NH as well as Ashburnham, Concord, Groton, Hudson, Stow, Littleton and Boxboro. Below is a list of the current 2020 rebates:
FUEL SYSTEM REQUIREMENT REBATE AMOUNT
OIL Furnace with ECM Blower AFUE ≥ 86% $650
Hot Water Boiler AFUE ≥ 86% $800
Indirect Water Heater Connected to Hot Water Boiler $400
PROPANE Furnace with ECM Blower AFUE ≥ 95% $1,000
Hot Water Boiler AFUE ≥ 90% AFUE ≥ 95% $1,500 $2,300
Condensing Boiler with On-Demand Water Heater AFUE ≥ 95% $2,000
ENERGY STAR Qualified On-Demand Tankless Water Heater UEF ≥ 0.87 w/electronic Ignition $800
Indirect Water Heater Connected to Hot Water Boiler $400
NATURAL GAS Furnace with ECM Blower AFUE ≥ 95% AFUE ≥ 95% $1,000 $1,250
Hot Water Boiler AFUE ≥ 90% AFUE ≥ 95% $2,000 $2,750
Condensing Boiler with On-Demand Water Heater AFUE ≥ 95% $2,400
Furnace with ECM with On-Demand Water Heater AFUE ≥ 97% $950
ENERGY STAR Qualified On-Demand Tankless Water Heater UEF ≥ 0.87 w/electronic Ignition $700
Indirect Water Heater Connected to Hot Water Boiler $400
ENERGY STAR Qualified Condensing Gas Water Heater UEF ≥ 0.80 $500
ENERGY STAR Qualified Storage Water Heater UEF ≥ 0.64 Medium Draw UEF ≥ 0.68 High Draw $100
ANY Central A/C, Ducted SEER ≥ 16, EER ≥ 13 $50/Ton
Central Heat Pump Mini-Split Heat Pump Refer to Heat Pump Qualified Products List at MassSave.com/HPQPL $250/Ton
OIL OR PROPANE Central Heat Pump Mini-Split Heat Pump ·       Refer to Heat Pump Qualified Products List at MassSave.com/HPQPL ·       Integrated Controls required unless central heating system is removed.  Refer to Integrated Controls Qualified Projects List at MsassSave.com/ICQPL $1,250/Ton
OIL OR PROPANE Integrated Controls ·       Add-on to existing central  or mini-split heat pump system ·       Integrated Controls required unless central heating system is removed.  Refer to Integrated Controls Qualified Projects List at MsassSave.com/ICQPL Up to $500 per indoor unit, max of $1,500
Electric Resistance Heat Central Heat Pump Mini-Split Heat Pump 900 kWh difference between sum of 3 winter-usage and 3 lowest-usage months $1,250/Ton
ANY Heat Pump Water Heater ≥ 55 gallons, UEF ≥ 2.7 ≤ 55 gallons, UEF ≥ 2.0 $150 $600
ANY Programmable Thermostat New Only.  Limit 4 per account $25/Thermostat
ANY ENERGY STAR Certified Smart Thermostat New Only.  Limit 4 per account.  Wireless connections must be enabled.  See MassSave.com/Thermostats for qualified models $100/Thermostat
For more info on the specific rebates and how to claim them, see the Mass Save website: www.masssave.com/en/saving/residential-rebates.
Keeping your heating system in good working order is about more than just keeping your home and family warm. It’s also about preventing your pipes from freezing and other costly and potentially serious issues from arising. Unfortunately, most people don’t give this much thought until something goes wrong. The good news is, with a little proactive maintenance, you can avoid the potential expense and headache of a system breakdown. And the earlier you schedule a tune-up for your heating system, the better – for a number of important reasons. Here are the seven biggest benefits of an early-season tune-up.

Save Money

When your system is running at peak performance, it operates more efficiently, which means you’ll spend less on energy bills to keep your home warm and comfortable. PLUS, you’ll reduce the risk of costly repairs, which means more money in your pocket. (See below for additional ways to save $$$.)

Improve Air Quality

For homes that have forced air heating, scheduling regular service can help limit the amount of soot and sediment that builds up throughout the year so the air your family breathes will be cleaner and healthier.

Environmentally Better

Well-maintained heating systems run cleaner, which means less wasted fuel. If you’re looking for ways to go green, having your heating system routinely tuned up is a great way to do so.

Extended Life

If your system is covered under a manufacturer’s warranty, you want to keep up with maintenance – otherwise, your warranty could be voided. And replacing your boiler or furnace can be a big expense. By keeping up with routine maintenance, you’ll extend the life of your existing unit and avoid having to pay out of pocket for things that would otherwise be covered.

Safer

Heating units produce exhaust. If a leak develops in the exhaust line of your unit, it could result in a serious or even deadly carbon monoxide hazard. An experienced technician performing a system checkup can spot these potential hazards so they can be addressed right away.

Emergency Prevention

There’s no worse time for a heating system failure than in the dead of winter (especially in New England). By taking care of system tune-ups, maintenance and repairs early in the season, you can mitigate this risk and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.

Convenience

Last, but not least, the earlier you schedule your heating system tune-up, the more likely you’ll be to get an appointment that suits your schedule. As the season goes on, technicians will inevitably get busier, which will make it harder to find a time slot that’s convenient for you. Keeping up with your heating system is an important part of home ownership – particularly when it comes to winters in the Northeast. At Wilson Brothers, we want to make the entire process as easy and cost-effective as possible.

Preferred Customer Agreement

Sign up for our Preferred Customer Agreement and enjoy the following benefits: Don’t get caught dealing with unexpected expenses and other headaches over the coming months. Get your system winter-ready and enjoy a more affordable and comfortable season. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. It’s not just a financial investment but an emotional one, too. Keeping up with maintenance protects your house and prevents major problems when you least expect it. Take care of your home today to keep it like new for as long as possible. Here are some tips for care some of which you can perform yourself, while others we recommend you leave to a professional.

Maintenance on your HVAC system

Your new HVAC system was fairly expensive, so you will want to keep it running well during its lifespan. Here are the things we recommend doing in order to extend the life of your AC or heater:

Electrical services maintenance

Most people think maintenance is about aesthetics, but there are many systems that you never see in your home that should get an annual inspection. Electricity is one of those systems. You should routinely check the sockets and circuits of your home every year. Watch out for these signs that indicate you may have electrical damage: Electrical wiring is not a DIY project. You should always get a professional electrician when making repairs.

Annual plumbing maintenance

It’s estimated that each person uses about 80 to 100 gallons of water each day. Just think about the amount of water that goes through your pipes each month. The plumbing system takes a lot stress. Remember these tips to keep it working properly:

Maintain good records

Use a home maintenance manager app to keep records about your home maintenance. Track warranties and other information so that you know whom to call when something breaks down. If you can’t reach your regular technician, you can advise the professional team who is making repairs or handling service what has been done. You can also track the expected lifespan of appliances to know when you should expect to replace them. Investing a little time will help you experience fewer breakdowns and stay ahead of the game when it comes to the maintenance of your home. Make sure to reach out to an HVAC professional when it’s necessary and you will be able to keep your house working efficiently for many years to come.
Ever notice how much drier the air in your home gets around this time of year? It’s not your imagination. In fact, it’s quite common - particularly in areas like the Northeast due to the combination of cold, outdoor air and forced hot air indoors. To combat this, some home owners choose to use small, portable humidifiers. But while these can certainly help, a much more effective solution is furnace humidification. Let’s take a closer look at what whole-house humidification is all about and, more importantly, why it’s something you might consider for your own home.

The Dangers of Dry Air

Dry itchy skin, chapped lips and a flaky scalp are just a few of the minor issues that can result from dry winter air. Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there. Dry air can be linked to a whole host of illnesses and ailments, including sore throats, nose bleeds, perpetual colds and the easier spreading of viruses such as the flu. Dry winter air can also trigger dust allergies and exacerbate asthma symptoms in some people. Then there’s the potential structural damages that dry air can cause throughout your home. It’s not uncommon for walls, hardwood floors and woodwork to crack due to lack of adequate moisture. What’s more, increased static electricity can wreak havoc on your electronic equipment. And let’s not forget about your energy bill. Because dry air makes it feel colder than it actually is, many people end up overheating their homes. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your energy bill will increase by 4% for every extra degree you use to heat your home. In other words, dry air is more than just a nuisance. It’s actually a danger to your family’s health, your property value and your budget.

What is Furnace Humidification?

Unlike standalone humidifiers, which pump moisture into only a small area, furnace humidification is designed to keep your entire home warm and comfortable. As the name indicates, furnace humidifiers are installed right onto the main HVAC system, typically in the ductwork. Warm air is pushed out of the furnace and through the ducts. From there, it flows past the humidifier before it is finally pumped into the living areas of your home. This keeps the humidity levels perfectly balanced throughout your entire house, rather than room by room.

Benefits of Whole-Home Humidification

There are many benefits to investing in a furnace humidifier. As mentioned, dry winter air can cause damage to your family’s health, your home’s interior and your wallet. Whole-home humidification is an easy, effective way to create a healthier home environment. In fact, according to an article in the New York State Journal of Medicine authored by Dr. Joseph Lubart, proper regulation of humidity is “the most important prevention measure” for many common illnesses, such as colds and the flu. Balanced moisture in the air will also prevent damage to your furniture, floors and wooden structures. And because the proper humidity helps you feel warmer, even in cooler temperatures, you can keep your thermostat at a lower temperature, making your heating bills much more affordable. Finally, furnace humidification much more convenient than using portable humidifiers, which take up space and aren’t aesthetically pleasing. You can enjoy all the benefits of warmer, more comfortable air throughout your home without having to deal with boxes cluttering up your living areas. And unlike portable humidifiers, which must be filled and cleaned regularly, whole-home humidifiers only require annual maintenance. View Aprilaire's Humidifier Models

Do you need a furnace humidifier?

There are a number of ways to tell if the air in your home is too dry. The obvious signs include: To be sure, your best bet is to enlist the help of an experienced professional. At Wilson Brothers, we are experts in furnace humidification. We’d be happy to come out, measure your home’s humidity levels and, if necessary, provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate. Get your free estimate today and let us help you enjoy a healthier, more comfortable and much more affordable winter season.
These days, we rely on electricity to power just about every aspect of our lives. From watching television to charging our mobile phones to keeping our laptops up and running. In addition to our beloved electronic devices, there are also our household appliances to consider, like washers, dryers and microwaves. And let’s not forget our lights and home heating/cooling. Problems come into play, however, when too much electricity floods our homes causing what’s commonly known as a power surge. Power surges can cause significant damage to compressors, controls, logic boards, sensors and other motor electronics, resulting in expensive repairs and/or replacements. While it’s always not possible to predict when a power surge will occur, it is possible to take certain measures to prevent damages and potential injuries. Read on to learn more.

What is a Power Surge?

In simplest of terms, an electrical surge occurs when the amount of voltage powering our devices and appliances surpasses what’s considered a safe level, overloading the home with too much electricity. Not all power surges will cause massive damages, there’s always a strong possibility that they will, which is why it’s so important to be proactive in this area.

Common Causes of Power Surges

Lightning is the most obvious cause of a power surge but these events can also be caused by utility occurrences, neglected generators, cycling of air conditioners and even motors and appliances. In fact, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), 60 to 80 percent of all power surges are created as a result of heavy-duty appliances – such as air conditioners or refrigerators – being turned on. Without adequate protections in place, any device that is plugged in within your home is at risk.

4 Tips for Protecting Your Electrical

Invest in whole-home surge protection.

Whole-home suppressors can protect your home by controlling the amount of power that is flowing to your electrical devices and appliances, thereby preventing an unwanted flood of electricity. The suppressor essentially serves as a gateway for the electricity. If the level of electricity gets too high, the suppressor will cut the power and redirect it into a ground wire. Keep in mind that whole-home surge protection should only be installed by a licensed and experienced electrician. Our surge protection package is available for a flat fee of just $230 and can help to:

Leverage point-of-use surge protectors.

You can also protect your individual devices and appliances from unexpected surges of electricity by utilizing point-of-use protection such as power strips that feature built-in circuit breakers. Surge stations can be used to protect cable and telephone lines. A third option is an uninterruptible power station (UPS for short), which creates a steady supply of electricity and typically features a backup battery, just in case.

Perform Routine Electrical Maintenance

Being proactive about the health of your home’s electrical can also help to prevent and/or limit the potential damages of a power surge. One way to do this is to hire an electrician to perform routine maintenance and servicing of your electrical system. Some examples of our electrical maintenance services include:
  1. Electrical service exterior:
    1. Inspect exterior service drop for insulation deterioration due to age and weather
    2. Check meter socket for rust and water infiltration
    3. Make sure exterior electrical parts are properly secured to structure
    4. Check for proper grounding and bonding
  2. Electrical service interior:
    1. Check panel for code violations
    2. Check main panel for loose connections or parts and tighten
    3. Check for water infiltration or excess moisture, rust or corrosion
    4. Check for circuit overloading (multiple wires on one breaker)
    5. Check circuit breakers for proper sizing
    6. Check for proper grounding and bonding in panel
    7. Vacuum dust, dirt or other debris from electrical panel
  3. Access overall condition of electrical service and provide written recommendations.
(All of this is available for the affordable flat rate of just $225.)

Install a backup generator.

One of the biggest issues a power surge can cause is knocking out electricity to your entire home. Should such an event occur, you want to be prepared with a backup plan – especially if the surge occurs during a time of year when it’s either extremely cold or hot. Consider having a licensed professional install your backup generator for you. Likewise, generators should be serviced regularly to ensure that they’re in tip-top shape should they be needed. The last thing you want is to find out your unit isn’t working properly the moment you need it most. With these tips in mind, you should be able to protect your home, devices and appliances from dangerous and costly power surges. And remember – don’t take chances when it comes to electricity. Your best course of action is to contact a reputable electrician. Wilson Brothers is proud to recommend our own in-house Master Electrician and our electrical team to provide for all of your residential or business electrical needs. Get your free estimate today!
You don’t need to check the thermometer or tune in to the local news to figure out that winter is once again closing in on us. In New England, this inevitably means battening down the hatches and preparing for the weather that’s sure to come. But before you crank up your thermostat and pull on that extra thick sweater, there are a few things you can and should do to help keep your energy costs from skyrocketing. In particular, winterizing your HVAC system. In fact, the Department of Energy estimates that giving your HVAC system a little bit of TLC before winter can reduce energy consumption by anywhere from 15 to 25 percent. Here’s what you need to do to get your unit prepped for the coming months.

Shut Off Power to Your A/C Unit

Believe it or not, one of the most common service issues come spring time is mice. Even though you’re not actively using your air conditioning, if you don’t disconnect its power source the unit can become a haven for tiny rodents seeking shelter and warmth from the weather and cold temps. To prevent unwanted guests from taking shelter in your A/C unit (and all the damage that comes as a result), be sure to shut off its power source as part of your winterization plan.

Get it Serviced

Having your HVAC unit serviced professionally can also do wonders for extending its life and maximizing its efficiency. Investing in a regular tune-up, clean-out and safety inspection will pay dividends in energy savings in the long run. Furthermore, if you do your homework, you can save even more by signing up for a service agreement. For instance, Wilson Bros. offers a Preferred Customer Agreement, which includes an annual 32-point inspection and maintenance checklist, priority service and more. Winterizing your HVAC system can increase its lifespan and improve its overall efficiency, saving you money and unnecessary hassle in the long run. A few simple steps – like those listed above – and your home will be ready for whatever the New England weather has in store.

Clean Your Registers and Air Returns

Over time, dust naturally builds up on an HVAC’s vents and registers. If left unaddressed, that grit and grime can cause your system to have to work harder than it should just to blow enough air to heat your home and keep your family comfortable. Before the season gets any colder, remove and clean all grilles and registers and wipe around the openings to clean out your ducts. As a bonus, when you clean your registers, the air quality of your home will also improve.

Change Your Filters

If you’re like most home owners, changing your HVAC filters isn’t always at the top of your to-do list. But doing so frequently – particularly at intervals such as the transition from fall to winter – is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to prolong the life of your unit. Furthermore, because clogged filters can reduce airflow, your HVAC system will have to work even harder to maintain the temperature on your thermostat, reducing efficiency and driving energy costs up.

Change Thermostat Batteries

Without adequate battery power, your thermostat will not be able to properly control your HVAC system. This could lead to excessive heating of your home or possibly no heat at all. The changing of the seasons serves as an excellent reminder to replace existing thermostat batteries with new ones to avoid any potential heating issues over the coming months.

Seal Your Ducting

Poor insulation and unused vents can cause cold air to seep into your home, driving your energy bills up and keeping your family from being as warm and cozy as they could be. That’s why sealing all of your ducting is so important. The DOE recommends using foil, mastic or other heat-resistant tape as opposed to traditional duct tape which, ironically enough, is not nearly as effective on HVAC duct work. This is important because if your tape dries up, degrades or comes apart, it can result in leakage at the seams where heat can escape and outside air can permeate.

Tidy Up the Area

HVAC units that are located outside the home can easily become inundated with seasonal issues, like falling leaves, heavy snow and trickling icicles. You can protect your outdoor system from rust, clogs and other wear and tear by cleaning up the area surrounding your unit. Remove anything that could potentially clog your system and keep an eye on things as the weather worsens. A quick tidying up can do wonders for your system’s performance over the coming months and years. (If cleaning your unit isn’t your cup of tea, consider covering it for the winter instead.)

Have a Backup Plan

Another important way you can prepare your home for the cold winter months is to have a plan B, such as investing in a backup heating source or whole-house generator. That way in the event of a power outage due to inclement weather (something we are all too familiar with here in the Northeast), or your primary source of heat fails, your home and your family can remain warm and safe all season long. If you are still concerned about your HVAC system’s performance, consider having one of our experienced technicians out to inspect it. We can make the necessary adjustments and provide professional advice and expert guidance on how to keep your family warm and comfortable over the coming months. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
It’s autumn in New England and that familiar chill is in the air once again. If you’re thinking of turning on those space heaters, you may want to think again – especially since space heating is the largest home energy expense, accounting for 45% of residential energy bills. This time of year is ideal for making key changes to your home that will maximize efficiency while keeping the cool fall air outside where it belongs. So go ahead – pull on that cozy sweater, grab a pumpkin spice latte and put the following home energy-saving tips into action.

Conquer the Drafts

One of the easiest and most effective ways to cut heating costs is to seal up any areas where heat could be escaping. Check your home thoroughly, concentrating primarily on windows, doors and electrical outlets. Sealing these areas with caulk and other weather-stripping materials can save you up to 15% on your heating bill.

Insulate

If your home is currently insulated with less than 12 inches of material, there’s a very good chance you’re losing heat as a result. Before the weather gets even colder, check your home to see if there are any areas where additional insulation might be needed, such as the attic.

Clear All Vents

If your vents are being blocked, that means your heater is working harder than it needs to. Check to make sure there is nothing obstructing them, like drapes or furniture. You should also thoroughly vacuum your dampers to remove any excess dust or debris – especially if you own pets.

Tune Up Your System

Keeping your heating system in good working order will ensure that you’re not paying more than you should be for energy usage. Investing in regular tune ups will also help extend the life of your equipment, saving you money over time. Lastly, regular professional servicing provides the opportunity to identify any other issues that may be costly so that you can address them before they worsen.

Change Your Filters

Another thing that can make a heating system work harder than it needs to is a dirty air filter. The harder your heater has to work, the higher your energy costs will go. Cleaning and/or replacing air filters every month will ensure adequate air flow. It’ll also help keep your system operating at peak performance and improve air quality by reducing dust and other allergens.

Take Advantage of Nature

Obviously, it’s not possible to go entirely without heat during the colder months, but opening your drapes to let the sun in during the day can do wonders for naturally heating your home. Just remember to pull them closed again once the sun goes down. This will help trap the warmth and keep the chill out.

Have a Backup Plan

If previous years were any indicator of how this coming fall and winter seasons will be, preparing ahead for frigid temperatures is a must for New Englanders. One way you can ensure that your home and family will remain warm, safe and comfortable is to have a backup heating plan in place. As an added  bonus, having a backup, such as a fireplace, wood burning stove or standalone heater that doesn’t run on electricity will also help you save on energy bills. Either way, the time to plan ahead is now.

Check the Thermostat

The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends keeping your home at a temperature of 68°F while you are awake and lowering it while you are either sleeping or away from your home. Doing so can save you up to 10% in energy costs each year. The easiest way to follow these guidelines is to invest in a programmable thermostat that you can set it and forget it.

Upgrade Old, Inefficient Heating Systems

There are a number of red flags that may indicate it’s time to consider replacing your existing heating equipment with an energy-efficient system. For instance, if your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old or if your system requires frequent repairs, it may be wiser financially to upgrade. Another way to tell is to measure your home’s energy use score using the Home Energy Yardstick. If your score is five or below, you’re probably paying more than you should be on your energy bills and could save significantly by upgrading. Not sure where you stand? Our experts are here to help. Click here to schedule a consultation.
Today’s modern homes are spending more electricity than ever. Building an energy efficient home is of utmost importance if you want to cut costs and protect the environment. There are some less expensive things you can do, such as window treatments and then there are more expensive options, such as changing roofs, walls, and electrical wiring. Even though some of these options might be quite expensive, in the long run they are going to pay dividends as you are going to cut a lot of costs. The most important thing, however, is that you will have a pleasant environment in your home.
One of the most important parts of a residential structure is HVAC, which helps in maintaining healthy conditions.

What Is HVAC?

HVAC, which stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is defined as the technology of indoor and vehicular environmental comfort. Its main goal is to ensure thermal comfort and a good indoor air quality. This system is known as a subdiscipline of mechanical engineering and is based on several principles: thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.

Is It Energy Efficient?

Companies manufacturing HVAC equipment have been trying to make it more energy efficient ever since they have been around. This is because of energy cost and the impact it has on the global climate changes. Water was used for heating in the past, but, today, forced air systems are becoming more and more popular. Better effects and energy savings are the biggest advantages of using the air systems.

Is There Another Way To Lower Electricity Costs?

One part of making your home energy efficient is rewiring electrical installation. If your home is rather old, there is a big chance that the wiring can’t handle the workload and is not capable of performing the electrical service which today’s standards require. Upgrading the electrical panel is one of the first things you should consider since it can help you with the electricity problems. Today’s non-metallic wires are safer compared to the wires which were commonly installed some 30 to 40 years ago. Sealing leaks, switching to CFL or LED bulbs, installing a new thermostat, adding or replacing insulation, replacing appliances, are several of other things you can do in order to make your home environmentally friendly and, above all, cost-efficient.

Overall

Hopefully this article answered the questions you had about what the benefits of improving your home are. It’s now time to take matter in your own hands and start implementing them. Not only for cutting costs, but also for a greener environment.
Wilson Brothers is planning our 6th annual charity golf outing in memory of Gary Garafola to benefit two local food pantries, PACH and Loaves and Fishes. We are hoping to generate a large sum of money for PACH Outreach to help them get their new building ready to open. We can’t do this alone, and need help from as many caring and giving people as we can. If you are interested in playing in our outing, you can sign up by sending in a check for $150 per golfer, along with the sheet attached below. If you are not golfing, please think about sending something in to help out.
Your donation goes directly to the food pantries and is tax deductible.
This is the best way to help our local neighbors in need, and the charity is truly grass roots. Any amount helps and will go a long way in fighting hunger. Thank you for your consideration! Wilson Brothers HVAC Make checks payable to: Gary Garafola Golf Outing Mail to: 35 Lomar Park Pepperell, MA 01463 Download Golf Signup Sheet