Energy Saving at Home: The Things You Can Do But Didn’t Know

There are a million ways to save energy at home, but every single one of them can only be successful if done and followed the right way. There are also those who you think are way too small that you no longer think they matter at all. And finally, there are those energy saving ways that you’re not even aware of. This article is about those ways.

Going green is one effective way of saving energy during summer. (image credit: AmpSecurity.com)

In the website Energy.gov, there’s a very informative blog with the title “Top 11 Things You Didn’t Know About Saving Energy at Home: Summer Edition,” where several things are discussed on how you might be able to save energy during the summer. And surprisingly, a lot of are even new to us!

Placing lamps or TV sets near your room air-conditioning thermostat can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary because the thermostat senses heat from the appliances. Set them apart and save energy.

Lighting makes up about 10 percent of home energy costs. Save up to 75 percent of that energy by replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). They also last longer, saving money on replacements.

Running your air conditioning at 78°F instead of 72°F can save between 6 and 18 percent on your cooling bill. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be, so set your thermostat as high as possible during the summer months.

Well-planned landscaping isn’t just for aesthetics — properly placed trees around the house can save between $100 and $250 annually.

On average, households lose about 20 percent of their heated and cooled air through the duct system to the outside. To avoid wasting energy, have your ducts inspected to ensure they’re sealed properly and insulated if necessary.

If you use air conditioning, a ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting about 4°F with no reduction in comfort. Just make sure to turn it off when you leave the room (fans cool people, not rooms).

There’s more from here.

While several of the tips above talk about the biggest energy spenders in air conditioning and lighting, you definitely are surprised at how a well-planned landscape can help in saving energy. Likewise, the use of the thermostat is something that every homeowner must consider especially if there’s a complex HVAC system in place.

Meanwhile, another article we found at Telegraph.co.uk talked about two unconventional ways of saving energy that you definitely aren’t familiar with. See them below:

Install a voltage optimization device

The difference between the voltage fed into your home and what your appliances need could mean that a standard appliance takes more than 4pc more current and consumes almost 9pc more energy than necessary. This technology could save you up to 10pc on your electricity bills. A voltage optimization device will need to be installed by a professional electrician. It won’t work on ovens, hobs, showers, immersion heaters and heaters, but it works well with washing machines, tumble driers, dishwashers, televisions and lighting.

Get shower savvy

Modern high-power showers can use as much water in five minutes as it takes to fill a bath. Energy-efficient shower heads and faucet aerators can reduce the amount of water delivered from taps and shower heads by 50pc but still allow you to enjoy an invigorating shower. You save on your water bill (if you have a meter) and on the energy required to heat your water.

Read the rest of the article here.

The units of measurement used in the UK is different to that of ours in the United States, but you get the sense, right? You can go ahead and visit your nearest home improvement store and ask about those two devices above.

Finally, Green Mountain Energy, in a blog post called “Unorthodox Summer Energy-Saving Tips” recommended some simple yet unfamiliar ways to save energy for the summer season. Here’s a bunch of examples:

Cooking tips: Salad, fruit, nuts, cereal, olives and cheese are just a few types of food that do not require any cooking in the oven or stove. Eating more uncooked food will help reduce your electricity usage, and it’s easier to do in the summer since there are so many fresh fruits and vegetables available.

Lock the doors: When hot air seeps into your home through cracks in the door frame or windows, it’s working against your A/C unit. One way to avoid these leaks is to lock your doors and windows, which ensures that they’re closed as tightly as possible. It’s also a good safety measure.

Shading: Trees or shrubs growing by your home can offer enough shade to lower your electricity usage, but not everyone has such helpful landscaping. If you’re in that boat, visit your local garden store to find some large potted plants or trees that can block sunlight entering your home. Not only will they block the heat, they’re also attractive and can give you more privacy from neighbors. Think about outdoor shades, too. If you can stop direct sunlight before it strikes the outside of the window, you’ll get more benefit than you will with shades on the inside.

Savings goals: Do your kids frequently leave the lights on? How often do you see their video game consoles running unattended? One way to curb wasteful behavior like this is by implementing monthly household energy savings goals by comparing your monthly usage vs. the same period a year ago. Establish rewards for your kids to achieve if you meet your goals, and create accountability if you do not.

See all the other tips from here.

To conclude, energy saving at home can be a lot more fun if you’re really into it. It is not to be construed as a difficult responsibility or chore that you have to perform. Just think about the kind of savings you’ll get when you do all of them every year.

Energy Saving at Home: The Things You Can Do But Didn’t Know originated at Heating Oil Website

Saving on Heating Costs During Winter

The thought of winter alone brings fear to many homeowners, especially those residing in the northeast region of the United States. When the cold season arrives, it usually means spending double on heating. But you don’t have to be looking at increased heating costs every single year and just acquiesce to it. Read this article to find out how to save on heating costs in the most practical ways.

Let’s start with BankRate.com‘s article about the “6 tips to save on home heating,” wherein there’s an emphasis of how you should do the right insulation for your home.

Insulation is your home’s all-purpose force field against high energy bills. It minimizes heat transfer in winter and summer, provides ventilation to control moisture and makes your home more livable.

Bringing your attic insulation up to code for your region is one of the most cost-effective ways to winter-proof your bear cave. The Department of Energy can get you started with its ZIP Code Insulation Calculator.

But before you blow insulation, be sure to seal all ductwork, plumbing and cable TV penetrations. Leaky ducts can account for 10 percent to 30 percent of heating and cooling costs.

“Most houses leak like sieves,” says Lindstrom. “Attic access doors are one of the biggest offenders. By building an insulation dam around the scuttle opening and installing an insulated lid on it, you’ll save big.”

Cost: $500 to $1,000 to bring a typical attic up to code. Lindstrom recommends earth-friendly chopped cellulose, which is chemically treated to repel fire and insects and retains its loft better than fiberglass.

Savings: 20 percent to 30 percent off your monthly bill, with return on investment in as little as one year.

Read this article by clicking the link.

We admit that improving your home’s insulation will cost you money. But remember that you’re doing it for your benefit in the long run. It makes zero sense to have the best heating equipment at home if the heat produced by it is not ideally utilized.

(photo credit: PopularMechanics.com)

Aside from insulation, there are also several convenient ways to save on heating costs, but this time you no longer have to spend money to do them. Take this advice from ConsumerEnergyCenter.org:

Let the sunshine in. Open drapes and let the sun heat your home for free (get them closed again at sundown so they help insulate).

Rearrange your rooms. Move your furniture around so you are sitting near interior walls – exterior walls and older windows are likely to be drafty. Don’t sit in the draft.

Keep it shut. Traditional fireplaces are an energy loser – it’s best not to use them because they pull heated air out of the house and up the chimney. When not in use, make absolutely sure the damper is closed. Before closing the damper, make sure that you don’t have any smoldering embers. If you decide not to use a fireplace, then block off the chimney with a piece of rigid insulation from the hardware store that fits snugly into the space (dampers don’t shut fully without some leaking).

See the rest of this post if you click this.

Even the smallest ways of producing and trapping heat inside can give you that much needed savings in home heating. If you’re using a fireplace, then stop. When the sun shines in the morning, let it in. Simple as that, really.

And then there are those ways that are focused on those things you should have been doing right from the start, but you haven’t done them simply because you weren’t aware. See this article titled “10 Ways to Save on Energy Costs this Winter” by Niccole Schreck, for US News:

Use ceiling fans to your advantage. Homes that have better ventilation and airflow can be more energy efficient in the summer and winter months. If you have ceiling fans in your apartment, you have more control over ventilation than you know. Ceiling fans can be used strategically to achieve better airflow: counter-clockwise will push hot air up in the summer and clockwise will trap heat inside to keep your rooms warmer during cooler months. Turn your ceiling fan on a low setting to gently push hot air back down.

Adjust the thermostat at night. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save about 10 percent per year on your heating bills by turning your thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours. Consider investing in flannel sheets and a warm comforter for your bed and keeping your apartment cooler when you sleep.

Only heat the rooms you use. If you have rooms that you never use, like guest rooms or large storage areas, close and seal off the vents in those rooms to be more energy efficient and direct the flow of air to the rooms you use most. Energy bills run, on average, $183 per month. By using a space heater in the rooms where you need it and setting the thermostat to 62 degrees, you can save approximately $200 each year.

Keep your furnace clean and unblocked. Keeping your furnace and vents properly maintained will reduce energy consumption and help you save. Check your furnace filter monthly, and replace it when it gets dirty.

Get a humidifier to add moisture to the air. The air inside your home can become very dry. Moist air feels warmer and holds heat better, so a humidifier can help you feel comfortable when your thermostat is set at a lower temperature. You can also increase the humidity in your apartment with a collection of house plants.

Read more by clicking this link.

Regardless of the type of fuel you use for heating your home, all those tips above are applicable. They’re not that difficult to follow, which means you can’t find an excuse to ignore them. You might not feel the need to do them, but when winter comes and your heating bill arrives, you definitely will revisit this article.

Similar articles can be read at: heatingoil.xyz

Interesting Facts About Oil You Probably Don’t Know

Oil is no doubt the biggest source of fuel in the world today. It is so precious that conflicts arise just because of it. In the not so distant past, only a few nations had abundant sources of oil, but the tide has been slowly changing, with the most powerful nations already getting a share of the resources.

(image credit: EcoWatch.com)

You’re probably thinking why you need to know more about it when you don’t really care. You see, the thing with oil is that our life would never be like what it is right now without it. So it probably makes sense if you are to be more interested about it.

So off we go with the facts about oil that you still don’t know. Worry not, these are all interesting!

In the website DiscoverMagazine.com, there’s a hilarious post detailing some facts about oil, in the post “20 Things You Didn’t Know About… Oil.”

If you are a creationist, crude oil was formed by thousands of years of heat and pressure applied to the carcasses of plants and animals that died in the Great Flood. If you’re not, you think oil comes from dinosaurs, right?

Wrong. Almost all oil comes from pressure-cooking dead zooplankton and algae—pond scum, in other words—which are among the oldest and most abundant life forms on earth.

Don’t blame the Hummers. That pond scum ultimately produced trillions upon trillions of gallons of oil. But most of it bubbled up to the surface long ago and was consumed by greedy bacteria.

Oil companies seek the small fraction that remains, spending more than $150 billion a year hunting for new reserves.

See all the other facts in this article by clicking the link.

Since oil comes from organisms that decomposed millions of years ago, this only means one thing – that this resource is finite. It means it will eventually run out based on the frequency of how we’re using it. Oil companies and oil-producing countries know this for a fact and that’s why everyone’s scrambling to find alternatives. Let’s just hope it’s not too late.

Now there’s really no denying the fact that when we talk about oil, we talk about the price. Yes, this hot commodity can have unstable prices at times. But there’s no single factor or cause. Instead, several things are responsible for oil prices going up and down. See this article from EcoWatch.com talking about the facts related to oil prices today:

The price for all 93 mbd (million barrels of oil a day) the world consumes are set by the cost of producing the final, most expensive marginal barrels—currently from tar sands and deep ocean drilling. That price has fallen from $110 to $90 in the last year. It’s still sky-high–triple what it was a decade ago

Most global oil costs much, much less than $90 to pump. Half, mostly in Russia and OPEC, cost $40 or less. Another third, conventional oil around the world and shale oil in the U.S., costs $65 or less. Only the final 10 percent requires $75 and up.

This gap—high consumer prices for mostly low cost oil—transfers enormous wealth from the U.S., China and Europe to the governments of Russia and OPEC. These “petroleum rents” equal 3 percent of global GDP—$2.2 trillion. They drag down the world economy as much as shutting down Great Britain. (China spends most of its huge trade surplus with the US importing oil. That’s a big reason its growth has slowed.)

Source: http://ecowatch.com/2014/10/15/oil-prices-carl-pope/

While most of the terms used in the excerpt above are too technical for many of us to understand, the thing is it is quite clear that majority of oil in the world is consumed and used by the most industrialized countries in the world, including the U.S. Good thing we’re in this country because we’re a primary market for this commodity. The same thing cannot be said in third world countries.

And finally, if you’ve been wondering why oil prices have significantly gone down as of late, then see this video from Catch News explaining the trend.

 

The following post “Interesting Facts About Oil You Probably Don’t Know” is courtesy of Heating Oil

Propane Heat Saving Tips

While it is probably true that only a very small percentage of American homes use propane for heating, it does not mean that it is less effective and efficient to conventional sources for heating like oil and natural gas. One obvious reason why propane is not as popular compared to those two is because it is relatively new to home heating. But what you need to understand as a homeowner trying to figure out which one’s best for your heating needs is that propane is quite reliable and cheap.

But just like heating oil and natural gas, the price of propane can go up without any warning; which is why if you’re using it to heat your home, you must learn how to keep the costs down or even at a minimum. But how do you do that? We compiled some tips for you…

In an article titled “Tips on Saving Propane Gas” from eHow.com, there are three convenient tips to save on your costs of purchasing propane for heating.

Weatherize your home. Have an energy conservation expert come to your home to determine the biggest “leaks.” Your energy provider might do this service for free. Some of the biggest things you can do to weatherize include insulating your attic, walls and basement, installing weatherstripping on your doors, and installing storm windows. If you have a propane water heater, consider insulating your pipes to keep water warmer in transit, but never cover the top of the heater or the thermostat that goes with it.

Purchase energy-efficient appliances and home features. The federal government and many states offer tax incentives for installing more energy-efficient windows, heating systems and insulation, so check with your state’s energy department to find out if investing in the cost is worth it in energy savings and tax breaks.

Turn down your thermostat. When you are sleeping, you are most likely snuggled up under a pile of blankets, so why not turn down the thermostat to account for the extra warmth you’re already getting in bed?

Not enough? Read the entire article here.

Winterizing your home may be a laborious task, but it sure will help you minimize the costs of using propane for heating. If you think you cannot do it, you can simply ask someone like your energy provider. Every little thing about it means a lot to your hope of cutting your annual energy costs.

(image credit: BWcharity.org.uk)

Also, the Department of Energy strongly recommends using a thermostat and turning it down as often as possible. Doing so will give you the opportunity to save about 10% of your annual heating costs.

Meanwhile, when it comes to the purchase of propane, the article “How to Save Money on Propane” from Erin Huffstetler for Frugal Living, gives out the best tips.

Go Big

Get a tank that’s big enough to hold a year’s worth of fuel, and fill it in the summer when propane prices are at their lowest. Another reason to go big: a larger tank just might get you a cheaper rate.

Not sure what size tank you need? Look over your bills from previous years or ask your provider for a recommendation.

Shop Around

Prices can vary widely from one propane provider to another. Use an online comparison site like CheckPropanePrices.com to make sure you’re getting the best rate for your area.

Snag Every Discount You Can

Propane companies frequently offer discounts for senior citizens and large fill orders. Talk to your provider to see if you qualify for these discounts or any others.

Join a Co-Op

Join a propane co-op, and start taking advantage of the special rates that they’ve negotiated with suppliers in your area. You may spend $25-$30 on your membership, but that membership could easily save you hundreds of dollars a year.

To find a co-op near you, just type “propane co-op” and your state into a search engine.

Avoid Fees

Propane companies love to tack on extra fees. When you call to schedule your next delivery, ask for a break down of all related charges. Then, question anything that seems excessive to you.

Source: http://frugalliving.about.com/od/energyandutilities/tp/How-To-Save-Money-On-Propane.htm

She also adds that propane users must be wary of other hidden fees and charges like fuel surcharges and extra charge for delivery. Some companies actually charge more if the delivery is carried out on bad weather or after hours, weekends, or during emergencies.

Choose a reliable propane gas provider.

So there you have it; the key to making life easier for you when it comes to heating your home using propane is learning the ways to go around the price. By using discipline, you also get to cut on your consumption while maintaining the level of comfort you need during the cold season.

Propane Heat Saving Tips originated at Heating Oil Blog

The Obvious Advantages of Heating Oil

One of the latest trends in heating oil is using it as fuel for a radiant heating equipment.

Heating oil is used in millions of homes in the U.S. to keep living spaces warm and comfortable. The heat produced by oil is considered both in the residential and commercial setting as the safest and most efficient. While natural gas and propane heating loyalists say that the back end costs of heating a home using oil are greater, the fact remains that oil is stable, abundant, and most importantly, completely safe.

It may be true that there are other modern ways of heating these days and each one of them will try to discredit the reliability of oil. However, there is still no denying the fact that it is irreplaceable. If you ask why, learn these advantages we compiled for different sources online:

Take for instance these three advantages given to us by LykinsEnergy.com, in one of its articles on its website:

Efficient – modern Oilheat systems perform at 85-95% efficiency or higher. This means that for every dollar you spend on heating oil 85-95 cents worth of heat and hot water is delivered to your home. Oilheat is the efficiency leader.

Clean – Today’s Oilheat is 95% cleaner than it was in 1970. Modern Oilheat systems create absolutely no soot, dirt, or odors in the home. It is as environmentally friendly as gas.

Economical – annual heating costs for Oilheat are consistently lower than natural gas or electricity, especially if your heating supplier offers a price cap or guaranteed price program. The Department of Ecology studies indicate that oil heats 16% more efficiently than natural gas.

See more of this post by clicking the link.

In the concept of modern heating, efficiency is the name of the game. That’s because when you use an efficient source, it means you’re saving money in the process because the heating equipment no longer will have to work doubly hard just to provide an ideal and comfortable atmosphere.

Oil is abundant in the U.S.

Aside from being clean, efficient, and economical, heating oil offers more advantages and benefits. According to Ehow.com, there are two notable P’s that can be considered as advantages you obtain if you opt for oil heat. These are:

Performance

An advantage of home heating oil involves performance. Oil burns 400 degrees hotter than natural gas or electricity, so oil-heated homes warm quickly. Current oil-heat systems burn cleaner than past designs, minimizing the release of soot into the surrounding area, known as a puffback. Caused by faulty ignition switches, puffbacks happen when oil fumes gather during an ignition stall. A small explosion occurs when the switch is finally lit, releasing dust and fumes. The potential for puffbacks has been reduced, but not eliminated, creating a disadvantage for home heating oil.

Portability

Builders list portability as an advantage of home heating oil. Homes located in areas deemed inaccessible by other heating methods utilize oil heat. Pipes direct oil from a nearby containment unit to the residence. Ships transport large quantities of oil on a regular basis, creating situations deemed a disadvantage of oil. Spilled home heating oil does not create a fire hazard.

Do you want to see the rest of the article? Go to the link.

Those who were convinced to switch to electricity or natural gas after using oil for years have certainly regretted their decision, at least in terms of performance. That’s because no other fuel or energy source can surpass or even duplicate the performance of oil. You just have to burn a minimum amount of it to produce ideal heat.

And last but certainly not the least; heating oil is simply the most practical choice economically speaking. To explain that, StephensOnOil.com gives the most detailed reasoning from its article “Advantages of Oil Heat.”

Did you know that oil is actually less expensive than it was ten years ago? That’s right. As time moves on, nearly everything we use goes up in price. Yet oil heat remains a constant, incredible bargain over the higher prices of natural gas, proving to be the most affordable heating option available.

Heating oil prices are 2.5 to 5.5 times lower than electricity. Converting from gas to oil heat can substantially reduce energy costs as older gas heaters frequently operate at less than 70% efficiency.

While the installed cost of an electric heat system may look attractive, the annual operating costs quickly exceed any first time savings. In the majority of cases, converting to efficient oil heat offers a very good payback.

Continue reading the rest of the post here.

So if you’re thinking of switching to another source of heating other than oil one of these days, remember this article and think thoroughly. And put this in mind – there has to be a very good reason why oil used for heating is still around after a century or more. That’s likely because most people find it effective.

The following post, The Obvious Advantages of Heating Oil, was first seen on Heating Oil Website

Basic Guide in Propane Heating

(photo credit: TheTinyLife.com)

In terms of heating, the most popular sources are electric, oil, and natural gas. But with the help of technology, both residential and business settings have benefited from the emergence of other heating sources, including geothermal, solar, and propane.

Also called as liquefied petroleum gas, propane is the new breed of convenient and cheap home heating source. You already might be familiar with it as being used for cooking, but it’s actually more than that. In this post, we’ll give you useful information as to how propane heating works and how it compares to other sources of heating.

First up, let’s take a simple definition of how propane heating works, courtesy of eHow.com:

A simple propane torch that is lit with a match will produce heat but since that’s not its primary purpose the torch is not an efficient heater. A number of features are incorporated into a propane heater that direct the flame into a more efficient pattern for heating purposes and make the heater more convenient to use.

Fuel

Propane is a clean-burning and efficient heating fuel. It is normally a gas but is compressed into a liquid for use in heaters and grills. Commercial propane is a designation based on grades, and the fuel we call propane includes other compounds, like propylene and butane. But the majority of the overall composition is propane, a hydrocarbon with a chemical formula of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms.

Igniter

Many propane heaters employ a so-called piezoelectric igniter. A material, often quartz crystal, that has the property of developing an electrical potential when pressure is applied is housed in a mechanism that allows a spring-loaded hammer to strike. This action generates a spark, igniting the propane.

Element

Propane heaters feature some sort of an element, often porcelain, that spreads the flame out in a pattern and helps to distribute the fuel’s heat.

Pilot

A pilot light is a small flame that uses very little fuel and is designed to burn more or less continuously. Its purpose is to be ready to light the main burner relatively quickly rather than having to light the heater from scratch with the igniter each time.

Control

Some means of regulating temperature is a desirable feature in a heater. An automatic thermostat is a standard way of achieving this and some of the more sophisticated heaters may have a thermostat while others may simply have a manual flame control of high and low with a range in between.

Article source: http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4895344_propane-heater-work.html

If you’re completely new to propane, then you must understand that it is a combustible type of material. With that in mind, it can produce a carbon monoxide hazard when used in closed spaces. Carbon monoxide is a direct product of incomplete combustion and when it occurs,it can get into the blood and deprive a person’s brain of oxygen. The thing with propane heaters is that you should choose one that is approved to be used in enclosed places, provided you’ll use it inside your home.

If you are still curious as to the advantages of using propane instead of other traditional fuel sources for heating, take this excerpt in an article we found online called “The Advantages of Keeping Warm with a Propane Gas Heater.”

Why Should You Choose to Use a Propane Gas Heater?

Now you know the benefits of using a propane gas heater – plus where, when, and why to use them. Propane gas heaters are perfect for a variety of settings. They’re capable of heating large spaces and providing enough warmth to keep you comfortable.

They’re protective of the ozone layer, making them environmentally friendly, and they’re easy to use.

Remember to always use a propane gas heater in a well-ventilated area. It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions at all times. Following the guidelines for safe use, you can benefit from a propane gas heater. Many models offer adjustable heat settings for personalized comfort and because they’re compact they take up very little space.

These gas heaters are lightweight and easily transportable. They’re practical too, meaning they are a great option for a variety of situations. Gas heaters spread warmth evenly and offer safety features for added security.

Read the complete article by clicking this link.

Well, there seems to be more than enough reasons for you to choose propane, especially if you’re looking at having something that mobile and lightweight. Also, heating with propane does not necessarily require you to spend a lot of money upfront because there really is no installation involved.

Finally, if you are currently using electric heat or is contemplating on using electricity to heat your home, then you first should read this very interesting post from Petro.com titled “Propane vs. Electric Heat: Comparing Cost & Efficiency.”

Compared with electric heat, propane is better in so many ways:

Propane is cheaper than electric: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating a home in the U.S. with propane in recent years has cost far less than heating with electricity. In addition, over time, propane water heaters can cost one-third less to operate and recover water twice as quickly as electric water heaters.

Propane is warmer than electric: A propane gas furnace heats air to about 130°F to 140°F and operates in short intervals to minimize operating costs. An electric heat pump produces heat below body temperature (98.6°F), so the air actually feels cool when placing your hand in front of a vent.

Propane furnaces last longer than electric heat pumps: Propane-fueled furnaces last 5 to 10 years longer than electric heat pumps, on average.

Propane is more dependable than electric: Propane can be stored safely in a tank on your property, while electricity is subject to power outages. Reliable propane works when and where other energy sources don’t – which makes it quite versatile.

Propane is clean: Propane has long been recognized as the “green” energy. By using this exceptional energy, homeowners can help cut emissions and protect the environment. Propane is an approved alternative fuel listed in both the Clean Air Act of 1990 and the National Energy Policy Act of 1992. Moreover, because it is released as a gas, propane doesn’t spill, pool, or leave a residue.

Propane is safe: Propane has quite a remarkable safety record, due in large part to the stringent codes and regulations developed by the propane industry and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Propane also has built-in safety properties: It won’t ignite when combined with air unless the source of ignition reaches 940°F. Propane gas is nontoxic and produces minimal emissions, and is not harmful to soil or water. With propane, what you see is what you get. While electricity is measured in hard-to-understand “kilowatt hours,” propane is measured in familiar “gallons.”

Propane is customer-friendly: With propane, you get 24/7 customer service and support from your local Petro team, – who all live and work where you do – not from the big power companies.

If you wish to read the rest of this article, go to this link.

Need we say more? The truth is no one, including you, should be afraid to try using propane as an alternative source of warmth and comfort during the cold season. It is relatively cheaper, safe, and won’t harm the environment. It is the future.

Similar content can be found at: Heating Oil Blog

Benefits Of Properly Maintaining Your Heating System

Having your heating system inspected can save you money. It ensures that your system is running properly and saves energy. It will also increase the life span of your heating system. This article will discuss why it is important to have your heating system inspected each year. In the following article by Angie’s List, they discuss some of the benefits associated with heating system maintenance:

HVAC experts say an annual furnace inspection and service will prolong the life of the system, save energy and decrease health risks.

Not maintaining your furnace — whether it’s gas or electric — can cause it to run less efficiently, making it work even harder, therefore increasing your monthly energy bills, experts say.

If you have a company out to do an inspection only, you may have to pay a small trip charge or service fee. Ask if that amount will come off your bill, if you have work done. If your inspection includes a furnace tune up, sometimes known as a furnace cleaning, that typically costs an average of about $60 to $85.

Click here to see the full article.

This article discusses the importance of having your heating system maintained. Many HVAC experts claim that homeowners need to see their heating system the same way that they see their cars. You wouldn’t go without a oil change if you wanted your car to last a long time. This is equivalent to the maintenance of your heating system. It is absolutely necessary to maintain your heating system if you want it to last a long time.

 

There are also some steps that you can take around the house to ensure that your heating system is running at its best. Homeowners who live in especially cold climates, such as Vermont, need to be aware of maintaining their heating systems. The cold winters in these areas are long and so a heating system that is properly maintained will run more efficiently and will last longer. In the following article by Green Building Advisor, they discuss some maintenance that you can do yourself:

Check and adjust your thermostats. If you have programmable thermostats in your house, take advantage of their convenience and savings potential by properly setting them. Most provide multiple time-periods during weekdays, with potential for separate settings on weekends.

Replace air filters. If you have a forced-air distribution system with a furnace or heat pump, replace the primary air filter at the start of the heating season and then every month or two throughout the heating season, depending on how dirty it gets.

Inspect and clean air registers or baseboard radiators. Efficient heating depends on warm air rising into your rooms from hot-air registers or baseboard radiators (convectors). Make sure these aren’t blocked by carpets or furniture, and vacuum them at the start of the heating season to improve heat transfer.

Click here to see the rest of this article.

These are some useful tips that you can do yourself to ensure that your system is running properly. However, even if you do preventative maintenance yourself, it is always important to have a professional HVAC technician to conduct an annual inspection of your heating equipment. It will greatly decrease the chance of a breakdown. It increases the longevity of your system. Lastly, it cuts on energy costs. Sandy Summer, a resident from Altoona, PA claims that she used to skip out on having a professional inspect her heating system. A friend suggested that she would save on her home energy costs and Sally has been having an annual inspection for the past three years. She says that she noticed a significant difference on her home heating costs once she started and that paying for an annual inspection is worth the money. In the following article by Eco Environments, they discuss what to expect from an annual inspection:

The reason I have given you this scenario is because most HVAC professionals would equate preventative maintenance for your heating and cooling system to be equally as important as regular oil changes for your vehicle! Much like your vehicle, your heating and cooing system is a mechanical system with moving parts and pieces that need to be cleaned, inspected and adjusted. Sure, you don’t have spark plugs in your furnace like you do your vehicle, but you do have things like: valves, pumps, motors, belts etc… Just like your vehicle, all of these parts and pieces will wear out with use and age!

So, what exactly are you paying for when it comes to a tune-up or maintenance visit for your furnace? Here is a general list of things your HVAC professional is expected to do during a tune-up or fall maintenance. This list may vary from contractor to contractor, but in general you should make sure that whomever you hire is doing the following things:
1. Check furnace or boiler for the presence of CO at the time the check is performed
2. Check combustion chamber/heat exchanger condition
3. Check burner flame for proper characteristics including gas and air adjustment; clean burner, as necessary
4. Check pilot/igniter operation; clean pilot as necessary
5. Check motors, oil as needed (oil pump if boiler); check belts
6. Check condition of vent pipe to chimney and draft intensity
7. Remove dust and scale from the burner compartment and other key parts as needed
8. Check flame sensor or pilot safety timing and replace thermocouple, as necessary
9. Check condition of blower wheel 10. Check furnace filters
11. Restart furnace or boiler 12. Check operational control sequence, including safety controls and thermostat.

Click here to see the rest of this article.

Doing preventative maintenance on your house yourself is just as important as making sure that you have a pro do an inspection once a year. This article discusses what you can do to help keep your heating system working at it’s best and what to expect when a professional HVAC tech. conducts an inspection.

If your home is heated with heating oil, then click here to find the best prices in your area.

The article Benefits Of Properly Maintaining Your Heating System is available on Heating Oil Articles

Energy Saving Tips During The Winter

Even though weather forecasters are predicting a warm winter, homeowners are always looking for ways to cut down on home heating costs even more. This year’s home heating costs will be significantly lower compared to last year’s harsh winter due to the warm weather. However, as a homeowner, there are many things that you can do in order to reduce your home heating costs by following some energy saving tips.

All homeowners should have a process of preparing your home for winter each and every year. Even if it is going to be a warm winter, you can cut down on costs by winterizing your home. Homeowners in Connecticut have benefited from using these energy saving tips and have seen these tips working in their favor when they receive their utility bills at a lowered price. This means that you can put weather stripping on your doors or on warm and sunny days, open your curtains to let the sunshine naturally warm your house. In the following article by Energy Saver, they offer some useful suggestions for saving energy during the winter:

FALL AND WINTER ENERGY-SAVING TIPS

COVER DRAFTY WINDOWS

• Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration. 
• Install tight-fitting, insulating drapes or shades on windows that feel drafty after weatherizing.
• Find out about other window treatments and coverings that can improve energy efficiency.

ADJUST THE TEMPERATURE

• When you are home and awake, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable.
• When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10° to 15° for eight hours and save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.

FIND AND SEAL LEAKS

• Seal the air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes (“plumbing penetrations”), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
• Find out how to detect air leaks.
• Learn more about air sealing new and existing homes.
• Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.
• Find out how to select and apply the appropriate caulk.
• Learn how to select and apply weatherstripping.

As this article suggests, turn down you thermostat when you are away from home. A programmable thermostat can really make a difference and with most models, you can control your home’s temperature setting with your smartphone. This means that you can lower the temperature if you forgot before you left the house for the day and you can can turn up the temperature before you get home after a day’s work. Make sure that you cover drafty windows because a small draft can make the heater run more and increase your heating costs. Art McNartney, a resident of Winchester, Massachusetts, claims that he winterizes his home before the cold season each year and he can see a significant difference on his electric bills.

The above tips can really make a difference on your utility bills. There are also some additional things that you can do around the house to save even more energy during the winter. In the following article by U.S. News, they discuss some helpful tips to follow:

Bundle up with warm accessories.

This is one of the easiest ways to save on your heating bill. Instead of turning the heat up, put on a cozy winter sweater and warm socks. Keep throw blankets on your couch, and add an area rug to insulate the floor.

Use ceiling fans to your advantage.

Homes that have better ventilation and airflow can be more energy efficient in the summer and winter months. If you have ceiling fans in your apartment, you have more control over ventilation than you know. Ceiling fans can be used strategically to achieve better airflow: counter-clockwise will push hot air up in the summer and clockwise will trap heat inside to keep your rooms warmer during cooler months. Turn your ceiling fan on a low setting to gently push hot air back down.

Only heat the rooms you use.

If you have rooms that you never use, like guest rooms or large storage areas, close and seal off the vents in those rooms to be more energy efficient and direct the flow of air to the rooms you use most. Energy bills run, on average, $183 per month. By using a space heater in the rooms where you need it and setting the thermostat to 62 degrees, you can save approximately $200 each year.

This article originally was posted on the “U.S. News” website and can be found here.

Dressing appropriately even while indoors can lower your heating costs since you will not have to run your heating system as much. Dress in winter sweaters and cover up with blankets instead of turning up the heat. If you have ceiling fans, be sure to put them to work for you. These tips can majorly make a difference on your home heating costs.

Not only can you do things around the house to reduce costs but you can also upgrade to energy-efficient systems. Investing in an energy efficient system really pays you back in the energy costs that you won’t have to spend. Furthermore, even if you don’t want to invest in a new energy-efficient heating system for your home, you can properly maintain the one that you have to make sure that it is running properly. Be sure to change out your filters so that your heater doesn’t have to work as hard and be sure that a technician comes out to your home to give your system a tune-up. The following article by Energy.Gov, discusses some additional step that you can take:

Set your programmable thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and as high as is comfortable in the summer, and — depending on the season — raise or lower the setpoint when you’re sleeping or away from home.

Clean or replace filters on furnaces and air conditioners once a month or as recommended.

Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure they’re not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.

Eliminate trapped air from hot-water radiators once or twice a season; if unsure about how to perform this task, contact a professional.

Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and the radiators.

Select energy-efficient products when you buy new heating and cooling equipment. Your contractor should be able to give you energy fact sheets for different types, models, and designs to help you compare energy usage.

Click here to see the full article.

 

Making sure that your system is in tip-top shape will prevent it from working harder and using more resources. By changing out the filters, you will also ensure that you system is working properly. By using all of the tips found in this article, you will definitely see a difference in your heating bill and be able to use that money elsewhere.

To get the best oil price quotes in your region, click here to find a professional dealer .

The following blog post “Energy Saving Tips During The Winter” is republished from heatingoil.xyz

Heating Oil Prices For 2016 in the Northeast

As the winter progresses, many homeowners in the Northeast who use heating oil to heat their homes are questioning what the heating oil industry will project for this year. Naturally, homeowners have to budget when it comes to home heating costs especially for winters that are expected to be colder than others. Since the prices of heating oil constantly fluctuate, it is always a good idea to know what this industry will project and plan accordingly. This article will discuss what to expect for the year of 2016.

How Weather Affects Home Heating Costs

The cost of heating oil is at an all time low and consumers are enjoying the the savings associated with these low prices. In the following article by EIA, they discuss the expected prices for heating oil:

Expected temperatures based on the latest forecasts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are much warmer than last winter east of the Rocky Mountains, with the Northeast 13% warmer, the Midwest 11% warmer, and the South 8% warmer. Given the current indicators signaling a strong El Nino/Southern
Oscillation, forecast temperatures across much of the United States are projected to be warmer than the 10-year average.

EIA expects households heating primarily with heating oil to spend an average of $459 (25%) less this winter than last winter, reflecting retail prices that are 47 cents/gal (15%) lower and consumption that is 11% lower. In the 10%-colder-weather scenario, projected expenditures are $288 lower than last winter, with prices that are 39 cents/gal lower than last winter.

Heating oil prices are expected to be lower than last winter because of lower forecast crude oil prices and a relatively soft global distillate market compared with recent years. The Brent crude oil price is forecast to average $52/b this winter, which would be $13/b (32 cents per gallon) lower than last winter. Brent crude oil prices are forecast to remain below levels in recent years as the global oil market continues to experience an excess of supply to consumption.

Click here to read the rest of this article.

This article mentions that not only are heating oil prices the lowest that they have been in years but the forecast predictions of a warm winter will also make a big difference with home heating costs. The predictions for 2016 is that heating oil prices will remain low because of the excess of supply. Many homeowners are rejoicing because these prices are significantly lower to last year. Furthermore, last winter was extremely harsh and cold and so home heating costs were more expensive.

Consumers in New Jersey have seen this year’s oil prices decline substantially. NJ oil prices are continuing to decrease which is great news for consumers since the temperatures in January 2016 are finally feeling like a real winter.

Maine is no exception, oil prices have been dropping over the past 12 months. Maine oil prices are forecasted to continue to drop, again great news for homeowners that heat their houses with oil. Sally Panepresso, a homeowner in Biddeford, Maine was quoted as saying, “My husband and I are extremely happy to see that our heating bills are significantly lower this year than they have been in the past 6 years that we’ve been living in this home.”

What Does This Mean For This Upcoming Year?

The price of crude oil is approximately $54/barrel and is expected to be $59/barrel for 2016. Not much a difference in price. However, according to heating oil industry experts, they do not believe that homeowners will see heating oil priced at $100/barrel again. The reason being is that the fracking process has become extremely efficient. In the following article by Fuel Oil News, they discuss expected heating oil prices:

He noted that producers now have a lower breakeven price because of the growing efficiency of current shale production. “They only have to drill one hole and then a bunch of horizontal lines from that point, and it’s more like a manufacturing process,” Levine said. “You can turn the thing on and off and you’re not hostage to traditional things like well pressure, I don’t think the Saudi’s thought much about that. So I think when the prices get up to where they are now in the $40s or low $50s [dollars per barrel] a lot of folks are going to say it’s time to start the rigs. So, I don’t think the oil price is going to be anything like $100 per barrel again.”
And that is particularly unlikely in the short term.
“We have a ton of crude oil supply globally and domestically, and we’re seeing product supply inventory–especially distillates–climbing as well,” Milne said. “Domestically we have crude stocks 25% over a year ago we have distillate fuel supply 22% so these are bearish fundamentals.”
However, that does not mean that there will be no volatility, or that prices are not capable of going higher. There was a significant rally in prices in late August where prices shot up nearly 30%, with Brent topping out at above $54 per barrel. Prices have since dropped but remain in the mid-$40 range.

Click here to read more.

Therefore, not only will the warm winter weather create an impact on heating oil prices, the excessive supply will as well. Homeowners can plan for reduced budgeting when it comes to their home heating costs for the year of 2016.

To get oil price quotes for your region, click here to access our service map.

 

 

Read more on: Heating Oil Website

How To Save Energy At Home

It is easy to loose track of the amount of energy you are using in your home. Sometimes it may even seem like you energy usage is skyrocketing. Many people pare unaware of the amount of energy they are using in their homes. Saving energy at home is good for both your wallet and the […]

The post How To Save Energy At Home appeared first on Heating Oil Delivery.