Efficiency Matters in Massachusetts - Fall 2018
News You can Use: Heating Oil Leads the Way in Massachusetts
The Bay State has a long and storied history of leading the way. From the founding of our country more than 240 years ago to the advancements in technology today, Massachusetts has been and remains at the forefront.
Bioheat:
When it comes to energy efficiency, Massachusetts continues to be a leader. In 2008, our state passed the Global Warming Solutions Act, with the goal of hitting a 25% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2020. We are thrilled to report that Massachusetts is on track to meet this goal and the heating oil industry has played a big part in this success!
Thanks to advancements in our fuel, like the introduction of clean, green, environmentally friendly Bioheat® a few years ago and the transition to ultra-low-sulfur fuel this year, our industry gas made a sizable contribution to the statewide effort. And while we’re proud of what we’ve already accomplished, we’re excited for what the future has in store!
The Ultra-Low Revolution is Here:
On July 1, 2018, Massachusetts made the full and complete switch to ultra-low-sulfur heating oil (ULSHO). It was a big day for the more than 700,00 Massachusetts homeowners who heat with oil.
This commitment by the oil industry, in partnership with the state government, means that homeowners will realize some very significant benefits right away:
- Decreased Particulate Emissions: While heating oil has had low emissions for years, ULSHO takes it to another level. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions will be virtually eliminated.
- Increased Systems Efficiency: ULSHO will result in far fewer deposits of materials like ash, which means that boilers and furnaces will turn more heating oil into heat for your home.
- Reduced Maintenance Requirements: Because ULSHO is a cleaner-burning fuel, heating systems using it require less maintenance. Rest assured; your heating system needs no modifications for ULSHO.
Combining the benefits of ultra-low-sulfur heating oil with already-present Bioheat® results in a truly super fuel. For more information about the heating oil revolution in Massachusetts, visit DiscoverHeatingOilMass.com
Local Experts Make All the Difference:
There are many ways to improve energy efficiency and save money at the same time. Sometimes a combination of solutions has the greatest impact. That’s what Anthony and Colleen S., from Deerfield, experienced after working with their local heating oil company.
“After the cold spell last January, my wife and I agreed to gets serious and upgrade our 30-year-old equipment so that we wouldn’t be living in fear of losing our heat this winter. We called in our heating oil company and spoke to them about our options.” said Anthony.
“Their home comfort specialist was fantastic! He made recommendations that we wouldn’t have though about. We decided to replace our system and try to save as much as we could.” shared Collen.
When all was said and done, the Deerfield couple installed a new high-efficiency boiler and followed their energy expert’s recommendations.
“We installed a new programmable thermostat that connects to our iPhones, added some insulation in our attic and caulked our windows. According to our expert, we’re going to save at least 30% a year on our bills.” said Colleen.
“I’m thrilled! I can see a new fishing boat in my future, thanks to the savings!” said Anthony.
For more information about the best options for your heating system and ways to save the most energy and money, visit DiscoverHeatingOilMass.com or contact your heating oil dealer!
Tank Goodness! What You Should Know:
Heating systems aren’t the only pieces of equipment that have improved substantially over the years. There have been major advancements in heating oil storage tanks too! Here are a few tips that will help you make a good decision about your tank:
Keep it current. Go modern: Today’s tanks are truly impressive. They are double-walled to give homeowners complete peace of mind. Some tanks even come with 20-year and 30-year warranties. Plus, they look a lot more attractive!
Aboveground is the way to go: If you’re like the vast majority of Massachusetts oilheat customers, your tank is located above the ground, either in your basement or outside your home. As a result, your tank is smaller, easier to work with and is more easily protected. If your tank is currently located underground, it’s a good idea to think about replacing it with a new generation aboveground model.
Storage tanks are strong, sturdy and durable. But like any other piece of equipment, they won’t last forever. So, if you have a 25- or 30-year old tank on your property, talk to your local heating oil company about your options. You won’t be disappointed!