Don't Overlook Your Thermostat

service check of every furnace to ensure proper and safe operation during the heating season.
Anyone contemplating replacement of a furnace should deal with reputable contractors. Bids should include manufacturer’s data sheets. Careful comparisons should be made between manufactures of similar operating efficiencies and also between the mid- and high-range of equipment efficiency. A handy website for this purpose is furnacecompare.com.

From the Desk of Robert Montiel
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type mortar are all critical. Flagstone work requires that type I or Type II mortar be used. By using a mortar type of less strength, the mortar mix will not be sufficiently strong to hold the stonework together. But by following all of the installation techniques described above, a flagstone structure can last for many, many years.

Thermostats are obviously intended to control temperatures, but they also are the key to controlling heating costs. Recent news reports suggest that the cost of heating this coming winter will be higher than ever, with both natural gas and oil prices sky high. For every two degrees the thermostat is lowered, the cost of heating a home is reduced approximately 5%.
Although this is not recommended for heat pump homes, thermostats in homes with gas or oil heating should be turned down (or off, weather permitting) at night while you are sleeping. All thermostats should have the fan setting placed in the “ON” position. Running the fan full time prevents the air from becoming stratified, keeping you comfortable longer without burning more energy.
Electricity costs for a continuously running fan are negligible.
Modern thermostats facilitate these adjustments. For the best control of your heating system, replace an older thermostat with an electronic, programmable model.
A thermostat is no more than an intelligent “on/off” switch. Older thermostats are set at a desired temperature and maintain that temperature by running the system until it is achieved. Programmable thermostats can lower temperatures during the day when the occupants are at school and work and automatically raise the temperature at a preset time. Nighttime temperatures are likewise easily controlled. Care for your thermostat and it will save you money.