School’s back in session, football season is underway, and the leaves are crackling underfoot – which means cooler New England weather (and heating bills) are right around the corner. Here are 6 things you can do to prepare your home for the cooler weather – and save a few bucks along the way.
Remove window air conditioners – Window air conditioners are a huge source of air leakage – if it’s possible, it’s well worth the effort to remove them for the season (or permanently – ductless systems are a MUCH better option anyway). If window units must stay in place, seal them with caulking or tape and cover them with an airtight, insulated jacket.
Weatherize! – If you’re not sealing air leaks around your house, 20 percent of your heat could literally be going out the window (or your door, electrical outlet, light switch or lighting fixture…you get the idea). A small investment (as little as $30) in weather sealing and caulking materials could save you hundreds of dollars in heating bills this fall and winter.
Sign up for a Service Plan for your home comfort systems – Routine maintenance keeps your equipment running better for longer – especially when you need it most. That means a small investment in maintenance will pay off now (lower monthly bills, greater comfort) and later (fewer repairs). PGagnon & Sons offers service plans for your propane and heating oil-based heating systems – contact us to learn more.
Sign up for Automatic Delivery – Running out of heating oil or propane isn’t fun in the winter – and to make matters worse, it will cost you money, too (every time you have to shut down your propane system down, for example, it has to be tested – on your dime – in accordance with propane handling laws). But you don’t have to worry about any of those hassles that with FREE Automatic Delivery of propane and heating oil from PGagnon & Sons. Just sign up and let us worry about getting the fuel you need when you need it.
Insulate your water heater – If you touch your water heater and it’s warm or hot, some of the energy it’s using to heat water is being wasted. Avoid this by wrapping the heater in an insulating blanket (just make sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions). If you’re thinking about replacing your water heater, consider a tankless model to save even more money every month.
Consider replacing your older furnace or boiler – Investing in a new, high-efficiency furnace or boiler can save you 30 percent or more on your monthly heating bill. The unit will likely pay for itself in as little as three years.
