Technician Spotlight: Joe On Generators

Technician Spotlight: Joe On Generators

“Spring is the perfect time to give your generator a little attention after a long winter. As temperatures rise, I often see mice, ants, and debris finding their way into units, so a quick inspection can make a big difference. Check for nests, clear out any buildup, and call us to schedule your annual maintenance. We want to ensure everything is ready to run smoothly before you actually need it.

If your generator was installed in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, now’s the time to start planning for an upgrade. We’re seeing more older units in the field dealing with wear, hard-to-find parts, and low reliability. There have been a lot of advances in generators over the last few years, making them even easier to maintain while delivering the same dependable performance.”

Winter Wrap Up: Things To Consider For Next Winter

Winter Wrap-Up: Things To Consider Next Winter

Coming off a bitterly cold winter, here are a few important things to consider before you jump into spring planning. Taking steps now can help ensure you’re fully prepared if next winter is anything like the last.

Gault Advantage & E-Delivery

Colder temperatures often mean more frequent deliveries, making budgeting ahead especially important. The Gault Advantage Plan helps protect you from winter bill spikes by spreading your heating costs into one predictable monthly payment, based on your average fuel usage. Pair it with E-Delivery for added convenience - no trekking through snow or ice for delivery tickets. Your delivery confirmation is sent directly to your email, making it simple and hassle-free. For truly hassle-free billing, Auto-Pay is also available, allowing payments to be automatically charged to your credit card, debit card, or bank account.

Propane Monitors

Keep a closer eye on your fuel levels with our propane monitors. You’ll soon be able to check your gauge directly on the Gault portal - a new feature coming soon - making it easier than ever to avoid run-outs and stay prepared. Add one to your tank for just $49.99!

Equipment Maintenance & Replacement

After working overtime all winter, your heating system deserves some attention. If you missed your annual maintenance, it’s never too late – heat tune-ups can be done any time of year. And if your system is showing its age, spring is the ideal time to be proactive about replacement before another winter puts it to the test.

A little planning now can make all the difference when temperatures drop again!

Getting Ready For Spring with Gault Stone

A Long Snowy Winter: A Note From Sam

A Long Snowy Winter: A Note From Sam

It’s been a long time since we’ve felt a winter this COLD! With over 25 days below freezing (and even more frigid nights!), our drivers and technicians have been working tirelessly to keep your homes warm and comfortable.

The long hours, early mornings, late nights, and dedication in tough weather do not go unnoticed. Here’s what some of our customers had to say:

• “Matt & Alex got my furnace back up and running quickly on a very cold night and did great work. Appreciate the help guys!”

• “Fantastic personable tech. Gault serviced my Generac in the midst of this snow and freezing temps. Very professional. Friendly. Great service. Thank you, Gault. Very pleased.”

• “Gault was prompt, straightforward, and efficient in getting me a new boiler when mine kicked the bucket with more than a foot of snow on the ground. Spectacular service!”

• “During a delivery of propane, the delivery person noticed that a line to our tank was becoming unsafe. He took a picture with his phone, reported it, and Gault sent a repairman to our house within a week.”

Thanks to their dedication, Gault delivers more than fuel and service – we deliver reliability, trust, and peace of mind. Our customers count on us, and we can only meet that promise because of our team’s hard work and commitment.

I’m incredibly proud of our team, and winters like this make me appreciate them even more.

If you’d like to share your experiences with our team this winter, please leave us a review or send me a note.

Sam

Did Your Air Conditioner Drive Up Your 2025 Electric Bills?

Did Your Air Conditioner Drive Up Your 2025 Electric Bills?

If your electricity bills kept climbing last summer, your air conditioner may be part of the problem. Older central AC systems use significantly more electricity to cool your home, especially during prolonged heat waves.

Many systems installed 15–20 years ago were built to much lower efficiency standards. So even if your cooling equipment still runs, its age often reduces efficiency, forcing your system to work harder and use more power to deliver the same refreshing comfort.

Cooling equipment efficiency is measured by a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, set by the U.S. Department of Energy. The higher the SEER, the less electricity your system consumes. For every increase in SEER, homeowners can see a 4–6% reduction in annual cooling costs. Over time, those savings can significantly offset the cost of a new system.

How does your system compare?

• AC systems installed before 2006 typically had a SEERof around 10

• Due to age, those systems may now operate closer to a SEER of 7 or 8

• Today’s minimum installation standard is 13.2 SEER

• Many homeowners are upgrading to systems rated 16 SEER or higher

If your cooling equipment is aging or your summer electric bills are rising, upgrading to a high-efficiency system may be one of the smartest investments you can make for long-term comfort, reliability, and savings. And don’t forget about our spring savings: Receive $500 off the purchase and installation of a new high-efficiency air conditioning system. Learn more at gaultenergy.com/ac-savings

Healthier Homes in 2026: Remove Microplastics From The Air

Healthier Homes In 2026: Remove Microplastics From The Air

Clean air isn’t a luxury - it’s essential to your family’s health. New research shows that indoor air can contain significantly more microplastics than outdoor air, and adults may inhale tens of thousands of these particles daily. Common household items like carpets, clothing, furniture, paint, and flooring all shed microplastics that float in the air you breathe, leading to inflammation and immune system reactions.

The good news is that adding indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions can help remove microplastics from your air to create a healthier home environment. Air purifiers, whole-home ventilation systems, high-efficiency media filters, electronic cleaners, and HEPA-equipped systems are all designed to capture airborne particles - including microplastics as small as 0.3 microns.

When IAQ systems operate continuously, they help filter the air throughout your home, reduce particle buildup, and support cleaner breathing every day. It’s an often-overlooked benefit of modern IAQ equipment and one of the most effective ways to reduce microplastics indoors.

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If you’re looking to improve the air your family breathes, let our team help you choose the right Indoor Air Quality products for your home.

Call 203.227.5181 for a FREE consultation and explore our full line of IAQ solutions. Your family deserves cleaner, healthier air, and we’re here to help you achieve it.

Never Too Soon To Think Cool

Never Too Soon To Think Cool

Anyone else looking forward to warmer weather? It’s hard not to when January rolls around. So, this year we have already started thinking about sunny days and the simple joy of air conditioning, and you should too!

Meet with a Comfort Specialist for a new cooling system and receive $500 off + $100 account credit if you sign your AC contract before March 1st!

Why purchase cooling equipment in winter?

• You’re first on the list for installations once the weather improves.

• Extra off-season savings!

• No chance for hot, sticky days with a poor-performing system.

Schedule your free quote at 203.227.5181 or visit gaultenergy.com/ac-savings to learn more about high-efficiency cooling equipment.

Keep The Heat Flowing

Keep The Heat Flowing

After a colder than normal December, you might be wondering about your next Bioheat or propane delivery. But rest assured, our system has got your home covered! Setting up our weekly delivery schedule relies on a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Computer systems, weather calculations, and lots of geography are used to build out the most efficient routes that get fuel to our customers when they need it.

We look at Degree Days

Degree days are a weather measurement of how hot or cold a day is by comparing the average outdoor temperature recorded for a location to a standard indoor temperature (usually 65°F in the United States). The more extreme the outside temperature, the higher the number of degree days.

What does that mean for you?

The colder the weather = higher the number of degree days = more energy used to heat your home = more frequent Bioheat or Propane deliveries.

We calculate a K-Factor

The number of degree days is then part of a bigger equation to determine how long one gallon of fuel will keep a specific home at 65°F. This number rarely changes and is based on your home’s square footage, insulation, windows, furnace efficiency, thermostat settings, hot water setting, etc.

What does that mean for you?

When we track your K-Factor, we can more accurately predict how quickly you’ll use the gallons in your tank. If you’re an auto-delivery customer, we can then get you on our delivery schedule before you risk running low on Bioheat or Propane.

Our industry has been around a long time, and we’re fortunate that it continues to adopt technology to make serving customers even better!

Setting up our weekly delivery schedule relies on a lot of behind-the-scenes work – computer systems, weather calculations, and lots of geography to build out the most efficient routes that get fuel to our customers when they need it.  It’s one of the main reasons why we encourage you to sign up for auto-delivery. You won’t need to worry about how fast you can get on our delivery schedule – you’ll already be on it!

If you’re interested in switching to automatic delivery, give us a call at 203.227.5181, and our Customer Care team will talk you through all the benefits of making the move!

A Note From Sam

What’s your New Year’s Resolution?

Ours is to keep your home efficient, prevent costly breakdowns, and ensure year-round comfort.

We suggest a few simple safety checks that can make a big difference in keeping your home safe, comfortable, and worry-free.

1. Electrical Safety Check: Our licensed electricians will inspect your home’s electrical panels, outlets, and wiring to ensure everything is operating safely and efficiently. This check can enhance safety, improve energy efficiency, and help keep your system up to code. Starting February 1st, save 50% on your electrical safety check - now is the perfect time to protect your home and prevent unexpected issues all year long.

2. Propane Safety Check: For customers using propane, our Propane Safety Check includes inspecting your tank, lines, and appliances for leaks or issues. We’ll help you avoid unexpected repairs… or maybe just ensure your gas fireplace doesn’t go out!

3. Oil Tank Inspections: Our technicians perform an Oil Tank Inspection as part of your Bioheat system tune-up to spot wear and tear before it becomes an emergency. And with a Heating Equipment Check, our technicians will make sure your furnace or boiler is clean, efficient, and ready for action.

Winter weather puts added stress on your electrical, heating, and fuel systems, so now is the perfect time to schedule these essential inspections.

Wishing you a safe, warm, and happy 2026!

Sam Gault

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.