Truth Behind Energy Kinetics Heating Equipment

Truth Behind Energy Kinetics Heating Equipment

We get asked all the time if we sell or service certain brands. The truth is, we’re pretty selective. We only work with equipment that meets our standards for quality, technical support, and reliability. This is a big reason why we stand behind Energy Kinetics (EK) heating equipment.

Our Comfort Specialists often hear customers refer to them as “that bright yellow one” - and for good reason. EK is a family-owned manufacturer we’re proud to recommend, and here’s why:

• Strong Product Support – Direct access to EK engineers and their full parts inventory

• Technical Expertise – Our team is trained and certified to service and install EK

• Made in US – Their New Jersey factory uses locally sourced steel

• One of the best Warranties in the business – lifetime protection!

• Equipment Longevity – EKs perform well over 30 years with proper maintenance

More importantly, we really like Energy Kinetics’ efficiency. EK systems are designed to help homeowners save big on fuel use and heating costs. You can see the proof in two real-life case studies at gaultenergy.com/heat-savings.

And one more thing to keep in mind… It’s the final month of our heating equipment promotion; we’re offering over $600 in savings when you purchase and install a new heating system with us!

Stay warm this fall!

Sam Gault

Generators: Just As Important In Winter

Generators: Just As Important In Winter

When most people think of generators, they picture summer storms and hurricanes - and for good reason. But more and more homeowners are realizing that winter is when a generator can make the biggest difference.

A power outage in cold weather isn’t just inconvenient, but damaging and dangerous. Without heat, pipes can freeze and burst, causing thousands of dollars in repairs and water damage. Food spoils quickly, sump pumps stop working, and the cold itself can make your home unsafe to stay in.

This is why a standby generator is an important addition to any home. A whole-home generator automatically powers on when the electricity goes out - keeping your heat running, your lights on, and your household safe and comfortable until service is restored.

Instead of worrying about the next nor’easter or ice storm, you’ll know your home is protected. As we head into colder months, it’s the perfect time to prepare. Because while we can’t stop the snow and ice, we can make sure we’re never left in the cold.

Call 203.227.5181 to request a FREE GENERATOR QUOTE.

Prep Your Home For A Warm & Worry-Free Holiday

Prep Your Home For A Warm & Worry-Free Holiday

Everyone seems to have a Holiday Prep Checklist this time of year, and so do we! Here are five things to help your holidays go a little smoother.

• Switch to a smart thermostat: With extra people visiting, a smart thermostat will help you better regulate the temperature and save energy while you’re at home, work, or on vacation.

• Add a propane tank monitor for $49: If cooking, baking, and entertaining by the fire are on your holiday agenda, make sure you don’t run out mid-recipe! A propane tank monitor gives you peace of mind, so you can focus on creating delicious meals instead of tracking fuel levels. Contact us to get yours installed today!

• Schedule an Electrical Safety Check at 50% off: This time of year can place extra stress on your home’s electrical system. From holiday decorations, increased usage, and the drop in temperatures, it’s essential to have your electrical panel, outlets, and wiring checked. Offer valid December 2025.

• Check your indoor air quality: Dry winter air and seasonal colds can make your home feel less than ideal. We offer solutions to improve your indoor air quality, from humidifiers to filtration systems, so everyone in your household can breathe easier and enjoy a healthier winter.

• Switch to e-delivery tickets: The holiday season means plenty of deliveries to your doorstep. Save some paper and reduce clutter by opting for e-delivery tickets on the Gault Online customer portal. You’ll get all the info you need electronically, leaving more time to focus on holiday shopping, cooking, and celebrations.

Guest Spotlight: Harry, Field Supervisor

Guest Spotlight: Harry, Field Supervisor

Q: What’s one thing you wish more homeowners knew?

A: Know where their emergency switches are!

Emergency Switches shut off the burner in your heating system. Most homes have at least two: one located at the top of the basement stairs and another on or near their heating equipment. Both should have a red switch plate for easy identification.

Know where your main water shut-off valve is located in case you need to shut off the water. And make sure you know where your electrical panel is located and that the breakers are properly marked!

Is your home ready for the colder months ahead?

Is your home ready for Fall and the cold winter months ahead?

Not only will your home be prepared, you might even see long term savings on your home expenses!

Secure your heating oil and propane for winter

Make sure you have your Bioheat® Home Heating Oil and Propane pricing secured before the first cold snap! We offer various price protection programs to suit your budget and ensure the fairest prices.

• Fixed Price Program: Lock in a set price per gallon for the entire heating season, protecting you from market fluctuations.

• Floating Price Program: Benefit from market prices with the flexibility to adjust as rates change.

• Cap Price Program: Price is locked at a ceiling, but allows movement downward if market price declines. Requires an enrollment fee.

Inspect your home heating system for age and needed maintenance

No one likes to be surprised by aging, poorly maintained or failing heating equipment! If your heat was struggling to keep up last winter, there’s no time to wait… schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists to review your equipment options and enjoy savings through November 30th.

And don’t forget, it takes a lot of energy to heat water – in fact, it’s the second highest source of energy usage. If you set your water heater to a couple of degrees cooler, it will save you some money on your energy bill and you’ll still enjoy all the hot water you like.

IMPROVE YOUR TEMPERATURE CONTROL

There are lots of ways to impact the temperature in your home and save money. A smart thermostat will let you preset your preferred temperatures, so it turns down or up automatically based on your schedule. Knocking down your thermostat a degree or two can save you over the course of the heating season, sometimes up to 10% on your fuel usage. And you might be surprised to hear it but turning your ceiling fan clockwise will create an updraft, moving warm air downward into the rest of the room.

stop air leaks and drafts in their tracks

There are lots of places where cold air can seep into your home: doors, windows, attics, basements, and fireplaces. To prevent drafts, consider installing weather strips where possible to stop the cold air from getting in. We know there’s something special about a fire on a cold night, but when it’s not in use, make sure you close the damper. Warm air circulating through your home can escape through the chimney and make your heating system work harder.

Winterize your yard and outdoor accessories before planning for spring

Consult with Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies to expand your livable space outside with cozy fire pits, versatile patios, and more! Visit gaultstone.com for inspiration and to get started!

Schedule your safety checks

Propane Safety Check: Whether you use propane for heating, cooking, or hot water, ensuring your system is in top condition is crucial. Our propane safety checks include inspecting your tank, lines, and appliances for leaks or other issues. It’s the best way to prevent costly repairs and ensure safe operation throughout the winter. Click here to schedule your propane safety check.

Electrical Safety Check: Winter weather can place extra stress on your home’s electrical system. From heavy snow to power outages, it's essential to have your electrical panel, outlets, and wiring checked. Our licensed electricians will ensure everything is safe and functioning properly, reducing the risk of electrical fires or breakdowns. Click here to schedule your electrical safety check.

Free Oil Tank Inspection: Your oil tank may be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind! As part of our heating system tune-up, we offer a free oil tank inspection to check for signs of wear and tear, leaks, or corrosion. Catching issues early can save you from an emergency breakdown or costly cleanup.

Cut Heating Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

Cut Heating Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort

If your heating system is more than 10-15 years old, chances are you’re spending more than you should to stay warm! Older equipment tends to run less efficiently, requiring more fuel to heat your home, so upgrading to a high-efficiency heating system is one of the smartest ways to reduce your energy expenses.

High-efficiency systems are designed to do more with less. They convert a greater percentage of fuel into usable heat, which means less waste and more savings for you. In fact, many homeowners see their heating bills drop by up to 30% or more after an upgrade!

If you’ve been putting off replacing your old furnace or boiler, now is the perfect time to consider an upgrade. No more chilly corners or constantly adjusting the thermostat. And on top of our fall savings on new heating equipment, many models qualify for energy rebates, making the initial investment even more manageable.

Talk to one of our Comfort Specialists to learn how much you could save by switching to high-efficiency equipment — and start enjoying a warmer home for less.

Double The Renewables, Zero The Hassle: Bioheat Gets Greener

Double The Renewables, Zero The Hassle: Bioheat Gets Greener

Back in 2021, the State of Connecticut mandated that heating oil sold in the state be a low-carbon fuel blend: ultra-low sulfur heating oil (ULSHO) with biodiesel, a fuel made from 100% renewable resources. The law specified the percentage of biodiesel fuel to be blended as 5% in 2022, then 10% by July 1, 2025, and ultimately 50% by 2035.

Starting this summer, the Bioheat® Heating Oil we deliver to your home is now a 10% biodiesel blend, but what does this mean for you?

• Your home now receives double the amount of renewables in your low-carbon heating oil.

• No equipment modifications are needed for the higher percentage.

• The new Bioheat® is even more environmentally friendly

• More renewables mean fewer greenhouse gas emissions

• Bioheat® continues to reduce our reliance on foreign oil

We’re proud to continue delivering a better, cleaner fuel to our customers. By using more renewable fuel in every delivery, we’re not just heating homes; we’re helping build a more sustainable Connecticut for years to come.

EPA's Refrigerant Regulations

EPA's Refrigerant Regulations

This summer has felt like the tropics at times – hot, humid, and rainy! That hasn’t stopped our team, who have been on the road servicing and installing cooling equipment all season.

Earlier this year, there was a lot of buzz in the industry about the EPA’s latest refrigerant regulations. Starting January 1, 2025, all newly manufactured air conditioning equipment must use R454B refrigerant. This marks our second major refrigerant phase-out in the last 15 years — first R22, and now R410A — all part of the ongoing effort to reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency.

While R410A systems, refrigerant, and parts are still readily available, the same can’t be said for older R22 systems. Parts are scarce or unavailable for repairs, and the refrigerant itself (Freon) is both hard to find and prohibitively expensive, meaning we can’t continue refilling systems like we used to.

This fall and winter, our team will be reaching out to our R22 customers to discuss the condition of their equipment and options to keep cool. I always find it’s better to plan ahead than be caught by surprise!

Spotlight: Joe On Customer FAQs

SPOTLIGHT: JOE ON CUSTOMER FAQS

It’s truly impressive how many calls and emails our Customer Care team fields in a day! They’re always happy to help, and Joe, Customer Care Manager, shared these top questions they hear every fall.

Should I lock in my oil or propane price protection plan now?

It’s always difficult to predict if a commodity will rise or fall. We always suggest you consider:

1. Budget Fit: Can you afford the locked-in rate comfortably? Does it give you predictable bills that make financial planning easier?

2. Risk Tolerance: If prices rise, a locked rate protects you, but if prices fall, you may pay more than the market. Ask yourself: would you rather pay a little extra for peace of mind, or take the chance of saving if prices drop?

Can I change my air filters myself?

Yes — you can absolutely change your air filters yourself, and it’s encouraged, especially if you have pets or you are doing work around the house. If the filters are easily accessible, you can simply replace them with the correct size (printed on the filter itself). If you’re unsure, give us a call and we can check if we have the information in our files.

Should I do my preventative maintenance on the heating system in the spring or summer?

Actually, we perform preventative maintenance on heating systems year-round. Many customers schedule it in the spring or summer, since it’s easier to find a convenient appointment before the busy heating season begins.

Fun Fact: We like to call Joe the Voice of Gault. If you’ve ever heard one of our radio ads or listened to our hold messages when you call the office, that’s Joe’s voice!

Top Five Reasons You Need an Electrical Safety Check

Top Five Reasons You Need An Electrical Safety Check

Zach, one of our licensed electricians, visits dozens of homes each month to perform electrical safety checks and ensure everything is up to code. We asked Zach: What are you finding the most during these safety checks? He shared the top five issues he sees most often - and why they matter:

1. Missing GFCI Protection: Many homes lack Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, basements, garages, and outdoor spaces. These outlets are critical anywhere moisture is present, as they prevent electrical shocks. Without GFCIs, you could be putting your family at risk.

2. Rusty Meter Boxes and Panels: Rust or corrosion on your meter box or electrical panel is a red flag for past or current water damage. Left unaddressed, this can deteriorate electrical connections and potentially lead to a costly electrical fire. If you see rust, act fast.

3. Outdated Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Panels: If your home has a Federal Pacific Stab-Lok electrical panel, it’s important to replace it immediately. These panels have been linked to safety issues, including fires and many recall scenarios.

4. Overloaded Circuits and Wiring Issues: Overloaded circuits - caused by too many appliances plugged into one outlet, rodent damage, incorrect circuit breakers, and more - are more common than you'd think. These issues often trip breakers or damage wiring, leading to costly repairs.

5. Melted Outlets and Hidden Damage: Melted outlets and wires often go unnoticed until it’s too late. This damage hidden beyond the walls poses serious risks!

DIY fixes can be dangerous – leave the electrical work to our professionals! If you haven’t had your home checked recently, now’s the time! An Electrical Safety Check is a quick and easy way to protect your home, avoid future issues, and enjoy peace of mind.

Go Ductless This Summer

Go Ductless This Summer!

Are you rethinking your cooling setup in the summer heat? Whether you’re upgrading a single room or ditching old window units, ductless air conditioning (including mini-splits and heat pumps) can offer a sleek, energy-efficient solution that heats and cools your home with no ductwork required.

BENEFITS OF GOING DUCTLESS

1. Easy Non-Invasive Installation: No ductwork means faster installation, often completed in just one day! You’ll enjoy upgraded comfort with minimal disruption to your home.

2. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Equipped with multi-stage filtration, ductless units help reduce dust, allergens, and airborne particles and deliver cleaner, healthier air.

3. Year-Round Comfort: Don’t be fooled by the name “heat pump.” These systems cool your home in the summer and can supplement your heat in the winter.

Whether it’s your home office, attic, or sunroom, ductless systems deliver targeted relief without the hassle of major renovations. For efficient, year-round comfort, consider going ductless with Gault Energy & Home Solutions.

The Best Ways to Monitor Your Home This Summer

The Best Ways to Monitor Your Home This Summer

Summer is the season for travel, thunderstorms, and rising temperatures, which makes it the perfect time to get serious about home monitoring. With the right tools in place, you can keep your home protected, comfortable, and energy-efficient all summer long.

Generator Monitor

It’s officially hurricane season, and that means your Generac standby generator is more important than ever. Thanks to Generac’s Mobile Link monitoring, we can remotely assess the status of your system and even diagnose many issues over the phone, saving you time and unnecessary service calls. If there is a change in the status of your generator, Mobile Link will send an alert to ensure you are aware of your power status.

Propane Monitor

Never worry about running out of propane again. Our wireless propane monitor gives us real-time tank level readings to ensure timely deliveries. For just $49.99/year, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we are keeping an eye on your fuel supply when you’re busy summer grilling, heating the pool, or running backup systems. It’s a small investment that adds convenience and confidence all year long.

Smart Thermostat

Heading out on vacation? A smart thermostat, like the Ecobee, lets you control your home’s temperature from anywhere in the Ecobee app. Whether you want to reduce energy bills while you’re away or cool the house down before you return, it’s a must-have for summer comfort. Ask us how to get started with a smart thermostat and stay in control of your climate, even from the beach.

Going Beyond the Basics: Inside Gault’s Hurricane Season Prep

Going Beyond the Basics: Inside Gault’s Hurricane Season Prep

What sets you apart from your competition? is a common question any business owner gets asked, and one that I can proudly reply with quite a long list. One answer that I am pleased to share is the way we respond to and prepare for emergencies. It’s a timely topic as we sit in the middle of hurricane season.

The month of June has become our unofficial (but actually very official) storm prep month, where we review, train, and prep for the upcoming hurricane season. And what sets us apart from our competition? We include everyone! Our Customer Care team has completed hands on generator troubleshooting, our back-office team is prepped on answering customer phone calls and emails, we’ve had 6 additional techs certified in generators within the last year (bringing our total to 19!), our IT team has tested our backup systems and the list goes on….

It’s a big undertaking every year to ensure we’re ready to serve our customers regardless of the weather. Five years ago this summer, we lived through a turbulent few weeks due to Tropical Storm Isaias. We got through that time by coming together to make thousands of propane deliveries and hundreds of service calls to keep generators running. Rest assured, we’re prepared to do it again when the next big storm hits.

Have a safe summer,

Sam Gault

Before Summer Vacation Starts…

Before Summer Vacations Start…

1. Protect Yourself with the Portal

Since 2023, the US Postal Service has seen a significant increase in mail-related check fraud. It is more important than ever to protect your payments. Our online portal is a secure, convenient way to manage your account, and it is packed with features to make your life easier.

By signing up for autopay through the portal, you can ensure your bills are paid on time without the risk of mailing checks. Plus, the portal lets you:

• View your account history

• Receive your e-delivery tickets

• Schedule appointments

• And much more!

Take advantage of these tools to stay safe and save time. Get started here!

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2. Get Pool-Season Ready

Pool season is around the corner - let us know when you plan to start heating your pool so we can make sure your propane supply is ready!

Want peace of mind all season long? Add a propane tank monitor to your existing tank for just $49.99. With a monitor, you will:

• Get real-time tank level updates.

• Avoid unexpected runouts.

• Enjoy more convenience and fewer check-ins.

This simple upgrade helps keep your summer swimming smooth and stress-free.

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3. Create the Perfect Summer Setting with Gault Stone

Whether you are planning cozy backyard nights or sprucing up your landscape, Gault Stone has everything you need:

• Fireplace Kits – Perfect for gathering around with family and friends during cool summer evenings for making s’mores.

• Gravel & Mulch – A fresh delivery can instantly enhance your curb appeal and garden beds.

Call or stop by our Westport showroom - we will help you choose the perfect materials for your next outdoor project!

Special Feature: Josh on Generators

Special Feature: Josh on Generators

Josh, our generator expert, visits dozens of homeowners every month, guiding them through our turn-key generator solutions. So we were curious… what questions do you frequently get from homeowners? He shared several, but we narrowed it down to the top three questions he receives regarding automatic standby generators.

1. How long do the generators typically last?

It depends on how often it is used, so anywhere from 12-15 years on average.

2. Do you need to service them, and if so, does Gault service?

Yes, like all engines, generators need to be serviced once a year. Each installation comes with a free service plan for one year, which includes your annual tune-up. Our in-house Generator Team is certified to service both Generac and Kohler models.

3. Can generators run on propane and natural gas?

Generators can run on either. During our appointment, we’ll discuss fuel source and what model is best for your home.

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Don’t miss out on a FREE 7-year Warranty when you purchase and install a new automatic standby generator with us!

Should You Repair or Replace Your AC System?

Should You Repair or Replace Your AC System?

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R-454B refrigerant.

R-454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing. Learn more here!

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or whether it is time to replace it.

While reading the Repair List and Replace List, make a note of which statements apply to your AC system or unit(s).

Repair:

• Active warranty; some repairs may be covered.

• The system’s age is less than its life expectancy.

• Your unit had 0-2 repairs in the last 3 years.

• The unit’s performance generally functions well.

• You plan to live in your home for less than 7 years.

• Newer models, less than 10 years old, run more efficiently and keep monthly costs down.

• If you meet the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost < $5,000

• The SEER is over 13.

Replace:

• Expired warranty; you are responsible for all repair costs.

• The system is at or has surpassed its life expectancy.

• Your unit has had 3+ repairs in the last 3 years.

• Your unit’s performance has gone down. Look for: Lessened airflow strength, difficulty with full room or house coverage, more time to change the temperature, and its ability to reach the desired temperature.

• You plan to live in your home for 7 years or more.

• The system is 10+ years old, or you want to optimize energy efficiency.

• You exceed the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost > $5,000.

• Your equipment uses R-22 refrigerant.

If more statements in the Repair column apply to you, calling our experts for a repair makes sense. If more statements in the Replace column apply, then you are in luck…

Gault Energy’s Spring Community Involvement

2024 Touch-A-Truck with our Make-A-Wish Propane Truck

Gault Energy’s Spring Community Involvement

As the warm weather rolls in, we are excited to get out in the community with two events we’re looking forward to this spring.

We’re jumping right into the Annual Touch-A-Truck hosted by the Westport Weston Co-Op Nursery School on May 3rd. This year, we’re bringing one of our big dump trucks and will host a coloring station at our booth. Personally, Touch-A-Trucks are some of my favorite events. The kids have so much joy and wonder when seeing the inspiration behind their toy trucks for the first time.

Our Stone division is sponsoring the Ridgefield Garden Tour on June 8th. Held for the first time in 30 years, this tour features seven private gardens in Ridgefield and will support the Ridgefield Historical Society and Garden Club.

It’s wonderful to support our community just as the community supports us. These activities are just a few we’ll be participating in and we hope to see you out and about with us enjoying the festivities.

We hope you can join us!

Sam

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

Call us today at 203.227.5181 or visit gaultenergy.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

If you haven’t read our last blog, here is a recap….

Another Refrigerant Change Is Here.

Over 15 years ago, the EPA began phasing out R-22 refrigerant, which is commonly used in air conditioning systems. This year, the EPA has added to that banned refrigerant list - R-410A, which was the EPA’s recommended refrigerant to replace R-22.

Now, the industry is being directed to manufacture systems that only use R-454B, a refrigerant with a significantly smaller impact on global warming than the previous two, and has increased energy efficiency.

Should I repair or replace?

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or it’s time to replace it.

Here are some things to consider:

Repair

Less than 2 repairs in the last 3 years
System worked great last year
Less than 10 years old
Refrigerant & parts readily available

REPLACE

Annual refrigerant refills
Poor cooling performance
More than 10 years old
It’s an R-22 system

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*Offer ends 5/31/2025. Offer limited to one per household. Does not apply to previously quoted AC units. Offers cannot be redeemed as a cash payout. Purchase must be a complete AC system including a condenser, air handler or cooling coil, and refrigeration line.

Important Information For All Air Conditioning Equipment!

Important Information For All Air Conditioning Equipment!

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R454B refrigerant.

This new refrigerant and equipment should be more readily available later this year.

R454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing.

FAQs on The EPA’s Latest Refrigerant Change

Can I still buy a R410A system?

Yes, but only for a limited time. HVAC manufacturers are shifting production to R-454B systems, and R-410A models will no longer be available after the transition. If you buy an R-410A system now, you may face limited availability for equipment and servicing in the future.

Do I need to replace my current system?

No, you do not need to replace your current system as long as it still runs efficiently.

• If you still have an R22 system, we no longer provide this refrigerant due to this phase-out being complete.

• If you have an R410A system, replacement parts and the refrigerant are currently available.

In either case, as your system ages and nears replacement or begins to require costly repairs, you will need to consider your options.

Can you retrofit my current system?

Most systems currently installed do not meet the system requirements for R-454B, so retrofitting is highly unlikely.

Installation changes with R454B systems

Due to the EPA’s guidelines regarding R-454B, installation of your air conditioning equipment will look a bit different.

• System piping (lines) – different sizes required

• Concealed lines can no longer be used (hidden in wall cavities)

• Additional leak sensors required

• Permitting may be required

• Carpenters may be necessary to gain access to run new lines

Servicing a R454B system

Maintenance recommendations on R-454B systems remain the same as existing systems and will be available under our current Cooling Protection Plan. For our technicians, they will be required to utilize some new tools and procedures to work with the refrigerant.

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Have additional questions?

Our Comfort Specialists are here to guide you through this transition. Please contact our office at 203.227.5181 to begin the conversation.

Upgrade Your Cooling Equipment & SAVE!

Upgrade Your Cooling Equipment & SAVE!

As the weather warms up, it’s time to think about your central AC system - soon, it will be more essential than ever! No one wants to be stuck in a humid home with an outdated cooling system that won’t make it through the dog days of summer.

Before it’s time to switch the thermostat over to COOL, upgrade your AC system and save $500 on new high-efficiency central AC equipment! Investing in a new system pays off in the long run, especially with the improved energy efficiency that will result in lower electric bills. New systems come with a higher SEER rating, meaning they use less energy to cool your home.

Consider these stats:

• If your AC was installed before 2006, the average SEER was 10. Now due to age, that same piece of equipment has a SEER of 7 or 8.

• The minimum SEER allowed to be installed today is 13.2. According to our Comfort Specialists, customers have been upgrading to a minimum of 16 SEERs for the last two years.

• For every increase in SEER, you should see a 4-6% decrease in your electricity costs.

And don’t forget, if your AC unit is more than 10 years old, it's likely using R22 refrigerant, which has been phased out due to its environmental impact. Not only is R22 becoming increasingly difficult to find, but it's also time to replace it to ensure your home stays cool and eco-friendly. Stay tuned for more information on additional industry-wide changes to the refrigerant used in your AC systems.

Call us today at 203.227.5181 or visit gaultenergy.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.