In fact, we spend so much money on staying warm that some homeowners will try uncomfortable tactics to save a few bucks — like manually turning down a thermostat more than 10 degrees every night so they wake up in an ice box. But there are legitimate ways to save money and stay comfortable while […]
heating
Local expert talks about heating choices
The need for supplemental heating solutions has become more prevalent in recent years, primarily due to the rising and unstable costs of fossil fuels such as oil and gas. Although natural gas remains a relatively inexpensive way to supplement the heating expense in our homes or businesses, Maine continues to painstakingly limit accessibility to natural […]
Programming thermostats for energy savings and comfort
(NewsUSA) — From smart phones to programmable thermostats, today’s electronics come equipped with advanced operating systems that make life easier and more efficient. The challenge is knowing how to take full advantage of the capabilities of these devices. Consider indoor environment devices like programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats are capable of controlling the entire heating, ventilation […]
Energy-efficient heating keeps cost-conscious homes cozy
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, many American homes will experience higher heating costs this winter due to increased fuel prices. Thankfully, simple behavior changes and energy-efficient appliances can help homeowners cut their heating bills and still enjoy the same level of comfort. “Energy-efficient heating means that you use less energy to heat the […]
Hybrid heat: An efficient way to warm your home this winter
Hybrid heat or dual fuel systems deliver exceptional performance by using a heating source that provides its most energy-efficient comfort during moderate heating conditions. As the temperature drops outside, the system automatically switches to your second heating source when that becomes the most economical way to keep your family comfortable. For instance, the Carrier Infinity […]
Furnace maintenance: Keep Old Man Winter at bay
One of the most overlooked — yet most essential — items in your home is the furnace, and there are some simple steps you can take to avoid being left in the cold. According to Lori Boyce, manager of heating and indoor air quality products for Carrier’s Residential Systems, it is important to perform a […]
Insulating window treatments save energy and look good doing it
There are a lot of window-fashion options out there, but one product in particular, cellular window shades, was designed specifically to help a homeowner save money — and it looks good doing it without impeding all the benefits of the window. The right window shades can pay for themselves in five to eight years through […]
Not all hot water heaters are created equal
We are all concerned about the high cost of heating our home, but heating hot water is often an area we overlook. In some homes, heating hot water can be even higher that the cost of heating a home. Today, there are a large number of options a home owner has to create hot water. […]
Heating solutions from local homeowners and experts
For Galway and her husband, Steve, that season can easily run from November through April or May depending on how cool or damp the weather is during the heating season. As the seasons change, Galway varies her heating sources. “The pellet stove is not our only heat source, but it is our primary heat source. […]
Wood pellet central heating: Savings made simple
Other residential solutions for using the abundant wood resources available to us here in Maine have been limited to wood stoves, wood boilers and other stove-like solutions. Wood pellets have always been appealing because of their clean burning qualities and low cost. However, many homeowners were put off by the necessity of using wood pellets […]