Thank Your from Nashua Police Athletic League
Energy Efficiency
The heating and A/C systems of yesterday weren’t designed with energy efficiency in mind. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends replacing any system that is 15 years or older with a newer, more energy-efficient system. The less energy your newer system consumes, the lower your heating and cooling bills will be. Furthermore, the average savings generated by investing in a new system will typically make up for the cost of the system within the first two years.Incentives
In addition to the money you’ll be saving month after month on your utility bills, there are also a number of energy-efficient incentives for replacing older HVAC systems with newer, environmentally-friendly, cost-saving systems. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) provides a detailed list of options by state. Massachusetts alone boasts nearly 100 different incentives and policies. These can make funding your energy-efficient heating and A/C system easier than ever.Reliability
Dealing with a broken heating or A/C system is a pain in the you-know-what. Dealing with a system failure in the dead of a New England winter is even worse. Not only do you have to worry about whether or not you have a backup heating or cooling plan and how to prevent your pipes from freezing, but you’ll have to pay to have the system fixed which can cost big bucks, especially if it’s an emergency call. Investing your tax refund into a new system will provide you with peace of mind and keep your home comfortable for years to come.Increased Home Value
Thinking about selling your home sometime in the near future? Replacing an old, clunky and outdated heating and A/C system with an energy efficient one is a small change that can produce a much larger return by making your home more marketable. So, not only will you save on your heating and cooling costs each month, but when the time comes to sell, you’ll get even more bang for your buck!Long-Term Savings
Last, but certainly not least, if you invest in a new heating or cooling system from Wilson Brothers, not only will you enjoy an attractive warranty, but you’ll also have the opportunity to take advantage of our Preferred Customer Service Agreement. This will ensure that your system remains in good working order, preventing costly repairs. As a Premier Customer, you’ll also enjoy a 15% discount on any repairs that you do need in the future. And if you experience the need for an emergency call, we won’t charge you overtime. Those savings can really add up. This year, when Uncle Sam writes out that refund check, think about investing it in something that will produce additional savings for months and years to come. Consider purchasing a new, energy efficient heating or A/C system from Wilson Brothers. Call our office for a free no obligation estimate at 978-433-5373 - we’ll be there when you need us.The harbor was iced in and oil was slow to get into the terminals. Companies were running out of oil. Some companies could not get oil or service to their customers.Pipes were freezing and bursting. Several homes ended up with major damage and no heat for an extended period of time. As a result of all of this, many homeowners that hadn’t kept up with required service and suddenly had no heat found out the hard way that you can’t just Google a company to come and fix your heat when you really need it. We’re not trying to be harsh, but it’s essential for homeowners to understand the importance of establishing a relationship with a heating company. The same thing holds true with an auto mechanic, plumber, electrician, and computer company. Regular maintenance to your equipment not only extends its lifetime, saving you money in the long run, but it will also keep you out of a bind when it gets bitter cold again (and in New England, we all know it’s just a matter of time). Having a heating company that you can call on when you experience a problem will ensure that you’ll have someone there to help when that time comes. When it gets as cold as it did over the past few months, our phone rings off the hook. Unfortunately, while we’d love to help everyone, we can only do so much. The fact of the matter is we take care of our regular customers first. Those who don’t do regular equipment servicing inevitably end up having to wait until we can get there. Some new customers get turned away completely. We simply have no choice. During the recent record cold snap, we had many customers that hadn’t used our services for years call and ask for help. Sadly, we just could not accommodate them. The good news is, we offer a Preferred Service Agreement that has several benefits to it. The most important is Emergency Service at our regular rate (no overtime). The cost is minimal for the contract, which includes a comprehensive 32-point system service and tune up. Think of it as another type of low cost insurance. With a service agreement, you will have an established relationship with a heating, plumbing, electrical and oil company, all in one.
Some of the Other Benefits of Having a Service Agreement
- Cost Savings – By investing in routine maintenance of your equipment, you can save money on potentially costly repairs down the road by identifying issues when they are still easy and inexpensive to address. Plus, our Preferred Service Agreement includes a discount of 15% off future repairs.
- Energy Savings – Annual tune-ups will keep your equipment running more efficiently, which reduces the amount of energy usage required to keep your home comfortable. This may also lower your utility bills.
- Longer Equipment Life – As with any piece of equipment, regular maintenance and tune-ups help to keep important components of your HVAC system in good working condition for longer.
- Safety – Well-maintained heating and cooling systems have a much lower risk of dangerous fuel leaks, fires and carbon monoxide exposure, which means your family and home will be safer.
- Peace of Mind – The fact is, equipment breakdowns can’t always be predicted and they often occur outside of regular business hours. Having a service agreement makes you a premier customer which means you’ll always receive VIP treatment any time, day or night.
What causes a pipe to freeze?
When the water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, which puts pressure on the pipe itself. Any pipe that is exposed to severe cold, such as the extreme bone-chilling weather we’ve been experiencing in Massachusetts, is susceptible to freezing. This includes water supply pipes located in unheated areas of your home, such as an attic, basement, garage or crawl space. Additionally, any pipes located near exterior walls where there is little to no insulation may also freeze. The main causes of frozen or burst pipes include:- Rapid drops in temperature
- Poor insulation
- Thermostats that are set too low
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
As heating experts, we’ve seen our fair share of frozen pipes over the years. It’s always better to take an offensive stance and try to head these disasters off at the pass. Doing so may take a little extra effort up front, but the time, aggravation and money you’ll save in the long run will be well worth it. To prevent ice from forming in your pipes due to extreme temperatures, we recommend you do the following:- Shut off and drain all pipes leading to outdoor water sources, such as faucets, water sprinkler lines or pool supply lines.
- Ensure that all unheated areas of your home are properly insulated. Be sure to check hidden areas, such as the attic and crawl spaces. Any exposed pipes may be susceptible to freezing.
- Promptly repair any ill-fitted doors, broken or drafty windows or other issues that allow freezing air to come in and/or heat to escape.
- Look for any air leaks near where piping is located, such as dryer vents or around electrical wiring. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold air out.
- Keep all exterior doors tightly closed, even if they aren’t located in the immediate vicinity of pipes.
- Maintain an interior heat temperature of at least 60°F at all times. It is more costly to fix a freeze up than to keep your home heated to a safe temperature when it is extremely cold .
- Put faucets on a tiny trickle of warm water.
- Avoid turning down the heat at night to prevent further drops in temperature from freezing pipes during the nighttime hours.
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow heat to flow near un-insulated pipes, such as underneath sinks.
- If you plan on going away during a period of colder weather, we recommend you leave your thermostat set to at least 60ºF while you’re gone so you don’t come home to any unexpected surprises.
What to Do if Your Pipes Do Freeze
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, a pipe will still end up frozen. The quicker you respond and address the problem, the less likely it will be to burst. Here’s what we recommend:- If you try to turn your faucets on and no water comes out, leave them turned on.
- You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe by applying hot air from a handheld hair dryer. Start with the area closest to the faucet and work your way toward the colder sections of the pipe.
- Never attempt to thaw a frozen pipe with a torch or other flame, as it could result in a fire, as well as potential carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If a frozen pipe does burst and your home or basement becomes flooded, turn off the water via the main shutoff valve and leave your faucets turned on.
Savings
First and foremost, the beauty of a high efficiency gas heating system is that it operates with much less waste. While older systems run at around 65% AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency), newer high efficiency models boast ratings of 90% or higher. In fact, the money you invest in a new system could easily be recovered in energy savings over the course of just a couple of years. Not only is this great news for your wallet, but it’s also much better for the environment.Greater Control
Unlike older Massachusetts heating systems, high efficiency gas setups feature modulating gas valves, variable-speed technology and other advanced features, which are designed to deliver more consistent temperature and even heating throughout your home or business. This, along with programmable thermostats which come standard with most new systems, allows much greater control over temperature and zone to optimize energy usage, maximize comfort and keep costs down.Peace and Quiet
Many of the older Massachusetts heating systems are notoriously loud and clunky. Today’s modern gas systems, on the other hand, have been designed with this in mind. That’s why they are built using high-tech materials that absorb sound and operate with almost no detectable noise. Compared to older models, high efficiency gas systems are designed to be felt but not heard.Better for the Environment
As mentioned, the less energy you consume, the less of an impact your Massachusetts heating system will have on the environment. What’s more, with an enhanced filtration system, they also feature much better air flow. In addition to more regulated temperatures, having a more consistent air flow also helps to improve the quality of the air itself, reducing impurities, preventing mold and creating a much healthier breathing environment in your home or business.More Bang for Your Buck
Because high efficiency gas heating systems minimize the number of on-off cycles, they typically require less major repairs (provided they are adequately maintained). That means they tend to last longer than lower efficiency systems. Additionally, because HVAC systems are high on the list of priorities for prospective home buyers, having a high efficiency system can increase the resale value of your home and possibly even help you sell it faster. So, now that you know some of the many benefits of this type of Massachusetts home heating system, the next logical question is whether or not it’s time to consider replacing you existing system. Generally speaking, the age of your current setup should indicate whether it’s time for an upgrade. For example, if your system is more than 20 years old, investing in a new high efficiency model is recommended. If your current system is younger – anywhere between 10 and 20 years old – and you are tired of dealing with inconsistent performance and ridiculously high heating bills, we recommend scheduling a professional assessment. We can help you determine whether a repair might suffice, or if a replacement would be a better investment. Given the fact that experts are predicting a bitter cold and snowy New England winter, the time to evaluate your Massachusetts home heating system is now. Call us today at 978-433-5373 to schedule an appointment, or fill out our estimate form to discuss your needs and receive a free, no-obligation quote. We’d love to help make your cold New England winter warm and comfortable!A Heating System Replacement
There are a lot of factors that go into the decision of whether to repair or replace your HVAC system. The following are a few things to consider:- Age
- Cost of repair
- Cost of replacement
- Budget
- Overall savings
- Safety
Common Signs for HVAC System Replacement
If you are still wondering about whether you need a repair or replacement, certain things may point you in the right direction. Here are some common signs to watch out for now, to know it’s time to schedule an estimate.- Your home has humidity issues.
- There is excessive dust.
- Your energy bills are really high.
- The heating and cooling system needs frequent repairs.
- Your heat pump is over 10 years old.
- Your furnace or boiler is over 15 years old.
- You are out of home a lot with no programmable thermostat.
- The HVAC system in your home is excessively noisy.
- You score low on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.
Scheduling a Heating System Replacement
Give us a call and we can send a representative to come and inspect your old system. They can test your energy efficiency and suggest options for replacement. At the end of the visit, you will receive an estimate for the cost of the replacement. At this point, you can then schedule the time for the job. At Wilson Brothers, we receive the majority of our calls during November and December. Taking a proactive approach now, ensures you and your family remain continuously safe and warm throughout the holidays. Give us a call to schedule in September and we can guarantee you will never get stuck in the cold this winter season.VIP Treatment
Additionally, we offer our customers an extra level of protection through our Preferred Customer Service Agreement (PCSA). A PCSA is a form of insurance for your system that guarantees we will be there 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You also receive benefits like discounts on future repairs, the waiving of fees, and VIP attention.BE PROACTIVE!
Plan to address any issues now, before they become an issue at all.If you have any other questions about how to handle heating system replacements, we’d be happy to help. Give us a call at 978-433-5373 today and we can get you scheduled before the cold creeps in!
A Heating System Tune-up
A heating system tune-up is preventative maintenance. The intent is to keep the equipment running at peak performance while also preserving your warranty. Customers often ask us what happens during one of these visits and if it is worth the cost. Manufacturers of all heating and cooling systems recommend a yearly preventative maintenance check to get the longest life out of your equipment. So, what exactly entails a tune-up?- Clean the system
- Check and change filters
- Inspect the flue pipe
- Check and clean burner parts
- Inspect the chimney flue
- Assess efficiency with combustion test
- Make burner adjustments
- Test-start the system a few times
- Maintain a reasonable temperature. The higher you crank the heat or AC, the more strain it puts on the system.
- Replace filters if you see they need it in between yearly maintenance.
- Keep the system clean on the outside and the inside.
- Don’t skip Wilson Brothers tune-ups!
Tom says – you have come to trust the Wilson Brothers and our Team for your heating and cooling needs. Did you know we also offer plumbing service, and installs?Wilson Brothers has four licensed plumbers on our Team. Some of our customers have already taken advantage of our plumbing service, and taken advantage of our highly skilled team, from our professional and friendly office staff scheduling the service, to our licensed and trained plumbers, taking care of the plumbing service.
The Next Generation of Wilson Brothers
Wilson Brothers has been taking care of our customers for 30 years with friendly, professional and seamless service, and will continue for the next 30 years with our second generation of Wilson Brothers taking over the Company.That’s right, Josh and Nate Wilson are being groomed to keep our Company going.They have worked for us for over 10 years in the field installing and servicing HVAC systems. They have been taught the Wilson Brothers way of going the extra step in taking care of our customers. Also, being honest and fair to our customers by providing a great product and great service at a fair price! This may seem like an easy thing to teach and do, but in this world of predator service and sales in just about everything, it is not. From large box companies to small local Massachusetts companies, it is the new business model to push consumers to products and services they don’t need and are expensive by using inexpensive leads, and switching to the high pressure sales tactics. Example: $69 Tune Up and System Check. Then they tell you the system has to have major repairs or should be replaced, no matter the age of it. With the second generation of Wilson Brothers in place, rest assured the Wilson Brothers way will continue for the next 30 years. We guarantee it!
The Wilson Brothers
Tom – Paul – John – Josh - Nate
In addition, your home can become a breeding ground for insects. Dust mites thrive and mold and mildew grow, which can trigger asthma and allergies
Another sign that a whole-house dehumidifier may be needed is when your air conditioner is struggling to create sufficient cool air.
Dehumidifiers range in size from portable, one-room units to whole-home solutions that tie into the home’s HVAC system. A portable dehumidifier may do the trick, but installing a whole house dehumidifier integrates directly with home heating system so that all the indoor air is dehumidified. The moisture that is removed from the air empties into a drain pipe to a sump pump, utility sink or to the outdoors.
Select a dehumidifier that can hold ten pints of water for a 500 sq.ft space. Add four pints of capacity for every additional 500 sq.ft. If you wish to dehumidify a 1,000-square-foot basement, you’d need a unit with a 14-pint capacity.
Be certain your dehumidifier is Energy Star-certified. These units use about 15% less energy than conventional units. That means a savings of about $175 over the life of the dehumidifier and avoids roughly 2,800 pounds’ worth of greenhouse gas emissions.
Dehumidifiers improve indoor air quality by providing a continuous flow of fresh, dry air in the home. This results in an energy-efficient solution and keeps mold growth at bay all season long.
A whole-home dehumidifier from Aprilaire automatically extracts the right amount of humidity from the home. The Aprilaire Wi-Fi Thermostat provides simple, automatic control of excess moisture which allows for better monitoring and control of humidity. The system is quiet and requires just a simple annual filter cleaning to keep it well-maintained. If you are fortunate enough to have a Mitsubishi ductless heat pump system, then you have a dehumidifying mode option which will reduce moisture and add comfort.
Call Wilson Brothers today at 978-433-5373 to learn more about Aprilaire whole-home humidifiers and Mitsubishi Heat Pump Systems. Visit our website to find out how dehumidification means comfortable and healthy indoor air.
