Keep Warm and Save Money

Significant financial savings begin with an upgrade, and then improved air quality and personal comfort follow.

Upgrading your home’s energy components is anything but hot air. According to real world examples from installations completed by Kings Park-based Flynn Aire, most oil-to-gas burner upgrades are worth an average thirty-percent reduction in fuel prices.

But even homes that can’t connect to gas service can still benefit. In this case, company president Bob Von Hagen recommends a dual-fuel system consisting of a new, efficient oil burner and a heat pump. During the extremely cold months of the year—November through February—the heating system performs by burning traditional fuel oil, albeit more efficiently. Then, in the “shoulder months,” say in late-September and October, and again in March and April, the oil burner turns off and the heat pump moves warm air through the house. Since no oil is being consumed, that is money left in the tank. Add add a solar panel to power the heat pump, and even more savings can be realized.

“We do both oil and gas conversions,” says Von Hagen. “There is a lot of interest right now because there is a sense of stability with natural gas prices. But there is a time and place for both. Not all parts of Long Island have gas, and oil equipment has gotten much better in efficiency.”

Von Hagen says a perfect use of a dual-fuel system is for a home with an older air conditioning unit and baseboard radiator heat. Instead of opting just for a new air conditioning system, for approximately $500 additional, a heat pump can provide cool air in the summer and heat during those shoulder months.

Another benefit of the heat pump is that air filters can be added into the ductwork system. “If you talk with an allergist, most problems are linked to environmental factors. So many homes use cleaning chemicals that effect air quality,” says Von Hagen.

“People should be aware that filtering helps respiratory problems, and so does humidifying or dehumidifying the air when needed. When choosing a system, don’t just look at the efficiency number. That’s only part of a cost savings package that effects your whole health.”

Photo: Lennox

Connect with Flynn-Aire – Air Conditioning and Heating: www.flynnaire.com

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