With the first day of autumn well behind us, it’s time for all of us to begin planning for the heating season. No matter how you heat your home, Rhoads Energy has developed a list of simple steps that can add up to big savings, and peace of mind, during the coming winter.
Do a basic system check.The first time you start your system, be sure it’s running and operating properly. Homeowners who use oil heat should do a quick visual inspection of their tanks to identify any rust or seepage. Check to see that your system is warming all rooms in your home evenly. If not, or if you notice the room that houses your furnace or boiler feels hot even when the system is not in operation, contact a qualified HVAC professional for a thorough system check.
Arrange annual maintenance.Yearly service uncovers minor problems before they become major expenses. Plus, regular maintenance ensures your heating system will operate at peak efficiency, which saves you money. For example, a properly maintained oil heat system can cut 10 percent or more from your heating bills. Research also shows that regular maintenance can extend the life of an oil heat system by up to 50 percent.
Lock in your pricing.Another key to savings is enrolling in “pre-buy” or “capped price” programs. Even though oil prices are currently low, they are still subject to volatility. With capped pricing, your cost-per-gallon will never go above a set level. Also note: some suppliers, including Rhoads Energy, will give you the lower cost-per-gallon if heating oil prices wind up falling during the winter. Read the fine print to be sure your provider offers a similar guarantee.
Protect yourself and save.A service plan can safeguard against the significant expense of a major repair. The plan you choose should include annual maintenance, which you should schedule anyway. Research a service plan that gives you the level of coverage you need, and be sure it includes 24 hour emergency service.
Stretch out your payments.Don’t pay for your winter heating costs in big, unmanageable chunks. Many providers offer a budget plan or payment plan that stretches your costs over several months. Be sure to find a provider who doesn’t charge a fee for this service.
Get an estimate.If you’ve had your heating system for 10 years or longer, the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy recommends an evaluation by a qualified contractor. Why? Because newer equipment is far more efficient than older equipment, which can save you hundreds in heating costs.
Whether we like it or not, the cold weather is coming. These basic steps will help protect your heating system, and your household budget.
