3 Ways To Save This Winter

Chris, Service Technician

Three Ways To Save This Winter

In today’s world, everyone has savings on their mind. As we head into the winter months, we have a few simple suggestions for how you can save on your heating costs and still stay warm and cozy!

Conservation

Programmable and smart thermostats can make a big difference in your home energy use. You can track and manage your home’s temperature, schedule changes in the settings based on time of day and even set up geofencing to automatically adjust the thermostat when you’re a certain distance from home. According to the EPA, you can save about $180 a year just by programming your thermostat properly.

Insurance

Purchase one of our Heating Protection Plans now and save on costly repairs later. Regular maintenance can keep your equipment running efficiently, more cost effectively and extend its life. Our plans include an annual Precision Tune-Up and 15% off and repairs.

Efficiency

Save up to 40% on the fuel you use this winter with a new heating system. Replacing your repair-ridden furnace or boiler or even upgrading from an older inefficient model can make a big impact on your home’s energy bills. Over the life of this new high efficiency equipment, you’ll see big savings - and our fall savings doesn’t hurt either!


There are also other ways to stay warm this winter like closing doors to unused rooms or ensuring that doors and windows are closed tightly but switching your focus this fall to Conservation, Insurance, and Efficiency will ensure you reduce your energy use and lower your bills.


CONTACT US TODAY!

Call 203.227.5181 to schedule an appointment with a Technician or one of our Comfort Specialists to let us help you stay warm all season long. 

See-ya Summer!

See-Ya Summer!

Whether you called this spring to make sure your air conditioning was ready for the season or we heard from you on a hot summer day, our team fielded a lot of questions about R22/Freon, a refrigerant that has been used in air conditioning units for decades . Since 2010, the EPA has been phasing out R22/Freon to reduce the impact this chemical has on the environment.

If you have an air conditioning unit that uses R22/Freon, your system faces frequent repairs or you didn’t stay as comfortable as you would have liked this summer, it’s time to consider your options for a new system.

Don’t Wait for spring to come back around

Set up an appointment now with one of our Comfort Specialists to evaluate your current equipment and needs. When the first heat wave hits next year, you’ll be glad you did. And, take advantage of our end of season savings on a new air conditioning system!

A Market Update

A Fall Market Update

As we head into the winter months, energy prices are on the minds of homeowners both locally and throughout the country. For the last six months, we have all been impacted by high gasoline prices, escalating food prices, and general inflation of consumer goods, as a result of COVID, supply chain issues, war, and global energy market changes.

In the wake of Russia invading Ukraine, we experienced an immediate impact on the heating oil and diesel fuel markets resulting in dramatic price increases for these energy products. We took immediate action to try to mitigate risk for our customers by postponing many deliveries and suspended offering our price programs. We have worked tirelessly since that day to communicate with our suppliers and industry leaders to navigate the market and monitor our delivery schedules to the benefit of our valued customers.

The good news is, we have seen a steady decline in prices since its peak due primarily to removing the “fear factor” of the lack of supply from the market due to the war. Historically, when we see price spikes due to geopolitical events, we also see price declines when the dust settles a bit and the market absorbs the news. Because of these factors, we are now reopening enrollment of our Cap, Fixed, and Pre-buy oil pricing programs to our customers. What else is good news… the propane market has been extremely steady so if you are a propane user, the impact has been minimal.

A couple of comments that I can provide about heating oil pricing programs based on my 40 years in this industry: do what makes you comfortable and stick to what got you here! Trying to guess where this market will lead tends not to work, so if you normally enroll in the Cap or Fixed program, do that. Or if you normally float, do that. Continue with the program you’re comfortable with and is within your risk tolerance. Whatever program you choose, rest assured that we will support you and compliment that with the best 24-hour service to meet your heating and cooling needs.

Thank you for your loyalty and enjoy the rest of your Summer!

 

Sam Gault
Gault Family Companies
President

13 Summer HVAC Tips

13 Summer HVAC Tips for YOU!

The hottest time of the year is finally here which means enjoying the warm weather, having fun outdoors, and wanting to return to a cool home. Here are 13 ways to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently and cost effectively:

1. Change your filters

Your AC system collects dirt, dust, and other matter which can reduce efficiency, decrease your indoor air quality, and deteriorate your system. It is important to check, clean, and change your air filters for your system to work to the best of its ability.

2.  Inspect your ducts and vents

Dirty vents and ducts can lower the quality of the air circulating through your home and reduce your equipment efficiency. We recommend keeping your vents wide open for optimal airflow and having your ductwork professionally cleaned. 

3.  Clean the outdoor areas

Your exterior AC condenser needs a good once over; clear at least a 2-foot perimeter from leaves, branches, and other debris that may impede on the unit’s ability to perform.

4.  Improve your cooling power

Programmable thermostats allow you to have more control over the temperature inside your home and a smart thermostat can be managed from your smartphone.

5. Shop energy efficient

Invest in energy-efficient accessories like window coverings and appliances so your cooling equipment doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.

6. Check the electrical

Every AC system has a wiring system that needs to be checked occasionally. Ensure that the wiring has no scorching and if it does, you should set up an appointment with one of our technicians ASAP!

7.  Clean Condenser Coils

Cleaning your condenser coils is another way to make sure that your AC system is running smoothly. All you have to do is turn off the power and spray the coils with water to remove any dirt and debris!

8. Listen for noise

As your AC unit is running, do you hear any grinding, hissing, rapid vibration, or other strange noises? If you hear any unusual noises, give us a call to schedule a technician to come find out the cause!

9. Check for leaks

Visually check the drain lines from your AC system and ductwork for any leaks, holes, or tears. If you see any cause for concern, call us right away to send a technician out.

10. Consider an upgrade

If you have an older unit (greater than 15 years old or an R22 unit), you are at risk for a break down that won’t be fun in the middle of summer. Upgraded systems are more energy efficient and will help you save money in the long run!

11. Maximize air flow with fans

Positioning fans like ceiling fans, tabletop fans, and floor fans throughout your home can make a huge difference in your overall comfort while helping your AC system not work so hard on hot days.

12. Reduce Heat from other appliances

Avoid using heat from large appliances; for example, instead of using your oven consider using your grill or move your clothes outside to dry on a line rather than the dryer.

13. Schedule a professional tune up

Give your AC system some TLC to make sure your home stays cool all summer long.


WE’RE HERE FOR YOU!

Please contact us at 203-227-5181 or info@gaultenergy.com if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our Technicians or Comfort Specialists.

Powering Through Hurricane Season

Powering through Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are in the forecast and even when they’re not expected to make landfall here in Connecticut, it’s always important that you plan ahead. Last year, over 1 billion hours were lost to power outages affecting almost 52 million customers.

Keep your generator maintained

Your generator should be set to automatically ‘exercise’ once a week. These 5-10 minutes of run time act as a system check to make sure your generator is ready to go when you need it. In addition, annual maintenance by a certified technician is important to keep your equipment in top shape; learn about our maintenance plans at gaultenergy.com/generators.

plan for your generator in advance

Generators are frequently thought of during a power outage, but don’t wait until you’ve lost power to give us a call. Our Comfort Specialists will guide you through our turn-key generator solution from calculating the power you need, selecting the best location and managing your installation.

keep synthetic 5w-30 oil on hand

If your generator is serviced by Gault, we use Synthetic 5W-30 oil in your generator. Keep oil with other emergency supplies in the event it needs to be added during an extended power outage. It can be purchased at a car parts store or any major gas station.

visit and save gaultenergy.com/storm

We’ve compiled resources, tips, and videos to help you weather a storm, from how to check the level of propane in your tank to generator best practices during an outage.


Meet josh - our generator expert

Since joining Gault in 2014, Josh has reinvented our generator practice and is a critical part of our storm response plans. His prior experience as an electrician gives Josh an expert view of each generator project’s installation and usage needs. You might be surprised to know that before he became an electrician, Josh went to school for audio recording; he maintains a strong passion for music and recording and continues to pursue it as a hobby.

If you’re interested in adding a generator to your home’s energy portfolio, give us a call at 203.227.5181 or visit GaultEnergy.com/generator-info.

Is Ductless AC Right for Your Home?

Is Ductless AC Right for Your Home?

There are no ifs ands or buts about it – everyone wants to stay cool in the summer. And while central air conditioning and window units are the most common, these cooling solutions might not be the best fit for your home. One energy efficient alternative you should consider are ductless mini split air conditioners.

How do they work?

Ductless air conditioners have an outdoor condenser and an indoor air handler that is mounted to the wall. Also called a ductless heat pump, during the summer the unit takes the warm air from inside your home and deposits it outside to leave your home cool. These systems are a great option for older homes, additions or other areas of the home without ductwork, and homes with non-ducted heating systems like hot water or radiators.

How efficient are they?

One benefit of ductless air conditioners is their flexibility in zoning. Because they operate independently from other cooling systems in your home, you can more effectively manage the temperature. Also, they are not subject to energy loss that typically occurs from unmaintained ductwork in a central AC system.

If you think a ductless mini split air conditioner is right for your home, give us a call at 203.227.5181 to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists or learn more at GaultEnergy.com/ductless.

Running through Spring with Gault Cares

Fun Run

Spring Activities at Gault

Walking Challenge Winners

We’ve hit the ground running… or at least walking through the various activities developed by our Wellness Committee and Gault Cares lately. April saw the Westport Minute Man Race and MS Walk, the Make-A-Wish Connecticut Walk for Wishes and Fairfield County 5k Fun Run came in May along with a team walking challenge to coincide with National Employee Health & Fitness Day!

In April, we completed our spring volunteer project through our Gault Cares program. We worked with Full Court Peace, an organization that fosters community and unity through basketball in Connecticut and NYC. We repaired a basketball court in Norwalk by cleaning, taping and repainting for the neighborhood to continue enjoying years into the future.

Happy Summer!

 

Sam Gault
President
Gault Family Companies

Spring is Gault Stone’s Time to Shine

Spring is Gault Stone’s Time to Shine

For those new to the area or new to the Gault family of customers, you may not have heard of our sister company Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies. With the weather warming up and everyone getting outside, it seems like the opportune time to introduce you!

Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies has one of the largest selections of natural stone in New England and we cater to a variety of clients from homeowners and masons to architects and interior designers. From backyard BBQs to patios and pool surrounds all the way to full house veneer, we supply stone to projects all across Fairfield County.

Since pictures speak a thousand words, we invite you to visit our website to get inspiration for your next home project or visit us in our Westport showroom at 11 Ferry Lane W. And in the meantime, if you are in need of gravel and mulch to spruce up your outdoor spaces for Spring, give us a call at 203.227.5181.

Visit www.gaultstone.com to learn more more!

Generators & The Electric Grid

 

Generators & The Electric Grid

If you stay up on domestic energy news, you’ve likely noticed that the electric grid continues to get a lot of attention. With some of the proposals to reach net-zero emissions, the demand on the electric grid will increase 60% by 2050.

Even now, power outages happen daily across the US – on average between 250,000- 500,000 outages per day. More homeowners are turning to stand-by generators in preparation for longer and more frequent loss of power.

With the need for careful installation in both the planning and installation process, we’ve become known for our turn-key generator solution. Our Comfort Specialists visit your home, review your needs and determine the best size and location for your generator. From there, our team of installers, technicians, and electricians will be onsite to get your generator up and running, backed by our commitment to be a You First company.

If you’re interested in adding a generator to your home’s energy portfolio, give us a call at 203.227.5181 or visit GaultEnergy.com/generators.

5 Steps to Prepare for a Hurricane

 

5 Steps to Prepare for a Hurricane

It's Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 1-7) and the 2022 hurricane season is predicted to be slightly above-average with a projected 13-16 named storms, 6-8 hurricanes and 2-3 major (Category 3 or above) hurricanes. 

Hurricane season officially starts June 1st so now is the time to prepare your home and family. With the supply of equipment ramping back up post COVID, there is no better time to get peace of mind for your family and home with an automatic standby generator from Gault Energy & Home Solutions.

We are known for our turnkey generator solution, coordinating every step of the process including:   

  • Sizing the proper generator for your needs

  • Coordinating all necessary electrical work and permitting

  • Installing the generator and all necessary fuel piping

  • Providing service and maintenance agreements to ensure your generator runs at peak performance

Review our 5 Steps to Prepare for a Hurricane below and reach out to us to find out more about installing an automatic standby generator at sales@gaultgenerator.com or gaultenergy.com/generator-info to get started!

When the next big storm hits, you’ll be glad you didn’t delay.

The R22 Phaseout & Your AC

R22 Refrigerant Phaseout: What You Need to Know

R22 aka Freon is a very common refrigerant used in air conditioning units across the United States. Due to its negative environmental impact, the EPA has been phasing out residential use of R22 for over a decade and it is no longer being produced or imported. With many systems still using R22 today, here’s a brief overview of what you need to know:

What is R22?

R22 (HCFC-22) is a chemical used in both air conditioning units and heat pumps. The liquid refrigerant runs through the system continuously, absorbing and releasing heat in order to provide cool air to the home. 

Why did the EPA phase out R22?

When released into the air, R22 contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer. In an effort to protect the ozone layer and slow climate change, the EPA is phasing out production of many ozone-depleting substances.

How do I know if my unit uses R22?

If your air conditioning unit is more than 10 years old, it most likely uses R22. There are a few ways to know for sure: You can check the owner’s manual or look for the data plate located on the outside condensing unit; both will be labeled with HCFC-22 if the unit uses R22. Or, you can give us a call to have one of our technicians or Comfort Specialists come take a look.

What are my options if I have an R22 unit?

Most R22 units are nearing the end of their lifespan so it is only a matter of time before they will need to be replaced. Because R22 is not longer in production, the cost of this refrigerant has increased based on supply and demand.

We strongly encourage homeowners to start budgeting now for a replacement unit as R22 supply decreases in availability each year.


 We’re here for you!

Please contact us at 203-227-5181 or info@gaultenergy.com if you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists or Technicians.

AC Myths Debunked: Why you should upgrade this year

Air Conditioning Myths Debunked

Making a big purchase for your home is not always the easiest decision. And with lots of information available at our fingertips, it’s easy to end up in a research wormhole. With our team of Comfort Specialists and Technicians, we’ve spotted the top AC myths we hear from customers:

i don’t need to swap my r-22 freon unit.

False. The EPA has phased out the use of R22 Freon for residential air conditioning systems. Because R22 is not longer in production, the cost of this refrigerant has increased based on supply and demand. We strongly encourage you to start budgeting for your replacement unit as the R22 supply decreases each year.

If it still works, I don’t need to replace my unit.

Not always true. Even if your unit still works, there are other factors that can impact the need to replace it, in particular the unit’s age, efficiency and maintenance/repair history.

Central air systems are one size fits all.

Maybe your unit was sized for your home and needs when it was first installed but over time occupancy changes and renovations can impact how effectively it works to cool down your home.

Air filters only need to be changed once a year.

False. We recommend changing your air filter every 60-90 days with a filter rated MERV 10 or higher. Air filters can easily get clogged reducing your system’s efficiency to keep your home cool. This is especially important if you have pets, children, or family members with allergies or asthma. And changing your air filter is easy! Next time our technician visits your home, be sure to ask how to replace it and what type to keep on hand for your unit. Learn more about air filters in our Indoor Air Quality Guide.

Special Savings with Gault

From March 1st to May 31st, receive $500 in savings when you purchase & install a new central AC system.*

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 and let us help you stay cool call summer long.**


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

Is it Time to Change your AC Equipment?


Is It Time To Change Your Air Conditioning Equipment?

Replacing your air conditioning unit is no small decision, but our Comfort Specialists and technicians can guide you through the process from start to finish. Here are a few questions to get you started:

DOES YOUR AIR CONDITIONING UNIT USE FREON/R-22?

It’s been phased out by the EPA and is much harder and more expensive to acquire.

HOW OLD IS YOUR UNIT

If it’s pushing the ten-year mark, it’s time to start planning for an upgrade before a breakdown or failure during a heatwave.

has your living situation changed?

From home renovations to additional occupants, your cooling equipment needs to be right sized for your needs to work efficiently.

Don’t wait to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists!

Enjoy up to $500 in savings on the purchase and installation of a new central air conditioning from March 1st to May 31st! For more information and to get started, visit GaultEnergy.com/ac-savings or call us at 203.227.5181.

Let Propane Power Your Spring


Let Propane Power Your Spring

Birds are chirping, days are getting longer, and we’re more than ready to get back outside. Now’s the perfect time to tackle your spring-cleaning checklist. And make sure you include your propane amenities on that list!


Remove debris around your propane tank

When doing your spring yard clean up, anything that might damage the tank during a storm or may burn within a 10ft radius of the tank should be removed.

Test your detectors

Safety first! Change the batteries and test all the various detectors in your home: propane leak, carbon monoxide, and smoke/fire


Clean your outdoor grill

With over 25% of all grill fires in the U.S. caused by improper grill cleaning*, it’s time to put a little elbow grease into getting it ready for lots of use.

clear your propane clothes dryer

Use a dryer brush to clean your clothes dryer’s exhaust fan and vent to improve airflow, reduce dry time, lower bills and reduce the risk of sparking a fire.

schedule your heating system tune up

Visit Gault Online at GaultEnergy.com/MyAccount to make your appointment so you’ll be confident your equipment will be ready to go next heating season


open your pool

It’s almost time to jump in! Make sure you schedule your pool opening and notify us of the date you plan to turn your heater on so we can provide uninterrupted propane deliveries all season long. Visit GaultEnergy.com/Pool-Open


prep for a storm

Now’s the time to think about hurricane season and prepare. Visit our Storm Center at GaultEnergy.com/Storm to learn important propane safety tips such as how to check the level of propane in your tank and how to turn your tank off in an emergency.

For more homeowner tips and additional guidance, our FAQs page GaultEnergy.com/FAQS is a great resource for insight on your home’s systems and fuel use!

*National Fire Prevention Agency

National Biodiesel Day

National Biodiesel Day

March 18th is National Biodiesel Day! It’s an important day in our industry as it celebrates the evolution of our product and the future of our industry. If you didn’t know, every gallon of heating oil in Connecticut is blended with biodiesel, a renewable, biodegradable fuel manufactured domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats and recycled grease. The biodiesel industry supports over 62,000 jobs in the United States and billions in paid wages.

As an industry, we have been working hard for decades to push this product forward. I personally have sat on the executive board of our industry association for over 8 years and continually advocate to legislators in Hartford. We have committed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 by setting biodiesel blending benchmarks: a 20% blend by 2023, 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050

As a company, we have continually evolved over our 160-year history to meet the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve, and I believe biodiesel is what will bring us into the future. I am passionate about our fuel and optimistic about the future; if you ever want to chat about it, drop me a line at asksam@gaultfamilyco.com.

Happy Spring!

 

Sam Gault
President
Gault Family Companies

HVAC Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Common HVAC Problems

  1. No Power: If your HVAC system is not turning on, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure there is power to the unit. Reset or replace any tripped breakers or blown fuses.

  2. Uneven Heating or Cooling: If some areas in your home feel significantly warmer or cooler than others, check if the vents and registers are open and unblocked. Ensure that there are no obstructions impeding airflow.

  3. Airflow Issues: If you notice weak airflow from your vents, check the air filters. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, reducing system efficiency. Clean or replace filters as needed.

  4. No Cooling or Heating: If your HVAC system is running, but no cool or warm air is coming out, check the thermostat settings. Ensure it is set to the appropriate mode (cooling or heating) and at the desired temperature.

  5. Frozen Evaporator Coil: If the evaporator coil inside the air handler becomes frozen, it could be due to restricted airflow or low refrigerant levels. Clean the filters and check for any blockages. If the issue persists, give us a call to inspect for refrigerant leaks.

  6. Unusual Noises: Strange noises, such as grinding, rattling, or banging, could indicate a problem with your HVAC system. Turn off the system and contact our office for an appointment to diagnose and repair the issue.

  7. Strange Odors: Foul or burning smells coming from your HVAC system may be a sign of mold, electrical problems, or a malfunctioning component. Turn off the system and schedule an appointment with one of our technicians to investigate and resolve the issue.

  8. High Energy Bills: If you notice a sudden increase in energy bills, it could be due to an inefficient HVAC system. Check the air filters, ensure proper insulation, and consider scheduling regular maintenance to improve efficiency.

  9. Thermostat Problems: If your HVAC system is not responding to thermostat adjustments or is not accurately maintaining the set temperature, check the thermostat batteries, and ensure it is properly calibrated.

  10. Short Cycling: If your HVAC system turns on and off frequently, it may be short cycling, which can waste energy and put strain on the components. Check the air filters, thermostat settings, and ensure proper ventilation.

IF YOU’D LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICE AND INSTALLATION OPTIONS,
PLEASE
CLICK HERE OR CALL 203.227.5181.

Heating Maintenance Tips

Preventable HVAC Maintenance Tips: Heating Equipment

  1. Regular Inspection: Schedule an annual inspection by one of our qualified HVAC technicians. They will check for any issues, clean the system, and perform necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance.

  2. Change Air Filters: Regularly change or clean the air filters in your heating system. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Depending on the type of filter, this may need to be done every one to three months.

  3. Keep Vents and Registers Clean: Make sure that vents, ducts, and registers are clean and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or other items. Blocked vents can disrupt airflow and reduce heating efficiency.

  4. Check for Leaks: Inspect your heating system for any signs of leaks, especially if you have a boiler or a furnace that uses fuel. Leaks can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately by one of our technicians.

  5. Test Safety Features: Make sure safety features, such as carbon monoxide detectors, are working correctly. Carbon monoxide leaks can be extremely dangerous, so having functioning detectors is vital.

  6. Insulate and Seal: Properly insulate your home to reduce heat loss and seal any air leaks in windows, doors, and walls to maintain a more consistent indoor temperature.

  7. Boiler/furnace clean-out: Before the start of the winter season, you should get an inspection and the recommended annual maintenance on your boiler or furnace. Give us a call to schedule your annual tune up.

If you’d like to learn more about our service and installation options for heating equipment,
please click here or call 203.227.5181.

Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

Preventable HVAC Maintenance Tips: Cooling Equipment

  1. Change your filters: Your AC system collects dirt, dust, and other matter which can reduce efficiency, decrease your indoor air quality, and deteriorate your system. It is important to check, clean, and change your air filters for your system to work to the best of its ability.

  2. Clean the outdoor areas: Your exterior AC condenser needs a good once over; clear at least a 2-foot perimeter from leaves, branches, and other debris that may impede on the unit’s ability to perform.

  3. Improve your cooling power: Programmable thermostats allow you to have more control over the temperature inside your home and a smart thermostat can be managed from your smartphone.

  4. Shop energy efficient: Invest in energy-efficient accessories like window coverings and appliances so your cooling equipment doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home cool.

  5. Clean condenser coils: Cleaning your condenser coils is another way to make sure that your AC system is running smoothly. All you have to do is turn off the power and spray the coils with water to remove any dirt and debris!

  6. Listen for noise: As your AC unit is running, do you hear any grinding, hissing, rapid vibration, or other strange noises? If you hear any unusual noises, give us a call to schedule a technician to come find out the cause!

  7. Consider an upgrade: If you have an older unit (greater than 15 years old or an R22 unit), you are at risk for a break down that won’t be fun in the middle of summer. Upgraded systems are more energy efficient and will help you save money in the long run!

  8. Schedule a professional tune up: Give your AC system some TLC by calling to schedule your annual maintenance to make sure your home stays cool all summer long.

If you’d like to learn more about our service and installation options for cooling equipment,
please click here or call 203.227.5181.

Tips For Maintaining Your IAQ

Tips For Maintaining Your IAQ

  • Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your home to remove dust, dirt, and allergens. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery, and dust surfaces with a microfiber cloth to trap particles effectively.

  • Air Purifiers: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne pollutants such as dust, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. Air purifiers can help improve indoor air quality, especially in rooms where you spend a lot of time.

  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining fresh indoor air. Open windows and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to allow for air circulation and reduce humidity levels.

  • Control Humidity: High humidity levels can lead to mold growth and worsen allergies. Use a dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% to 50% to discourage mold and dust mites.

  • Avoid Smoking Indoors: Smoking indoors releases harmful chemicals and pollutants into the air, affecting both smokers and non-smokers. Encourage smoking outside to maintain cleaner indoor air.

  • Monitor Indoor Plants: While indoor plants can improve air quality, overwatering can lead to mold growth. Monitor and care for your indoor plants appropriately.

  • Use Natural Cleaning Products: Choose natural, non-toxic cleaning products to avoid introducing harmful chemicals into the air.

  • Change Air Filters: Regularly change air filters in your HVAC system to prevent dust and debris buildup and ensure proper airflow.

  • Keep Pets Groomed: Regularly groom your pets to reduce shedding and dander, which can contribute to airborne allergens.

  • Test for Radon: Radon is a radioactive gas that can enter homes through the ground and affect indoor air quality. Consider testing your home for radon and take necessary measures to mitigate it if detected.

IF YOU’D LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR products,
service AND INSTALLATION OPTIONS,
PLEASE
CLICK HERE OR CALL 203.227.5181.

Reflections on 2021

Reflecting on a Successful Year

January might be known for resolutions but I’m starting off by focusing on another ‘R’ - reflection. A lot of great things happened in 2021 for both the business and the Gault family.

We conducted our biannual employee survey that measures how engaged our team is and I’m pretty proud of our score! It’s something I’m focused on every day; the more engaged our team is, the better customer service we can give. Our team has grown by 20% since the beginning of the pandemic making this initiative more important than ever!

Equipment has been off the charts. I’m so thankful for the continued patience and understanding of our customers relying on us for their standby power needs. We work hard to leverage our purchasing relationships to reduce supply chain disruption as much as possible. Our HVAC installations certainly haven’t declined either, experiencing 15% growth this year with everyone continuing to spend more time at home.

There was a lot to celebrate within the family as well. My daughter Jill returned to Ithaca’s theater program after a gap year and my son Ben graduated high school and is launching his car detailing business. Our family grew with my niece Meredith’s wedding; it was great to finally get everyone together to celebrate. My Dad turned 87 last August and still stops by the office every day to make sure we’re still working hard for all of you!

Happy New Year!

Sam