Q. Is it really necessary to get a pre-season tune-up on my heating system?

A. Put it this way, a pre-season tune-up on your home heating system is just as important as a tune-up on your car. This kind of maintenance extends the life of your system while ensuring it runs safely and efficiently. Pre-season tune-ups identify small problems before they become big and costly. Think of it like this: your heating system is dormant all spring, summer, and fall... a tune-up will prep it for the cold weather to come.

Q. What's the average lifespan of a heating system?

A. The average lifespan of a home heating system is fifteen years. Therefore, you can get the most out of your system by cleaning and replacing the filter as needed. And consider pre-season tune-ups to keep it running its best.

Q. We need a new heating system. What should I be looking for?

A. When it's time for a new system, we recommend models with the highest possible HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). The higher the number the more efficient the system, and the more money saved.

Q. What's the difference between a furnace and a boiler?

A. A furnace uses non-thermal energy and converts it to heat, which is generated by the combustion of a suitable fuel. On the other hand, a boiler heats and circulates water, and it turns it into hot water or steam to be used as a source of heat or power.

Q. What's best: electric, gas, or oil heat?

A. Keep in mind, 1/3 of the energy used in a typical household is from hot water. And electric heat, on average, can cost up to four times as much as natural gas, propane, or oil furnaces. Natural gas heat is very popular and is about 80% efficient. The downside: the danger. Though not a regular occurrence, a furnace leak can result in fire or explosion; a smaller leak can cause carbon monoxide problems. And lastly, oil heat. Today's oil furnaces burn efficiently and with far less pollution than years ago. Oil is also safe, but it's important to shop around for price--look into purchasing your oil off-season. And consider a "tankless" system-which means your oil burner will heat your hot water too... and maximize efficiency.