Dan Zarrow’s Insights: Keep Your Home Warm & Healthy Despite Rising Energy Costs

New Jersey residents face some of the highest energy costs in the nation, and I won't even hazard a prediction on when they might stop climbing.

I'll stick to the weather, thanks!

But, like everyone else, I want my home to keep my family warm and healthy while being economical where possible. So, I turned to my friends at Meyer & Depew, a family-owned business with more than seven decades of providing superior service.

They actually installed my current furnace 7 years ago when it died unexpectedly at an inopportune time. They handled everything in a timely and professional manner, and I can't recommend them enough.

Meyer & Depew

Of course, they have some thoughts on minimizing energy bills without sacrificing comfort. Here are the main points:

1) You need to know when to replace, repair, and maintain your HVAC system. In general, you should have your HVAC system serviced every six months or so, but if you have an older system or one that needs frequent repairs, a trusted HVAC professional can help you determine if it makes sense to replace your system now. Don't skip service or repairs to save money — it will make your system less efficient in the long run and could cause a host of other problems, too.

2) You might be able to save on energy bills with a new, efficient system. More recent designs include smart thermostats and variable-speed blowers that are proven to use less energy than older designs.

3) Look beyond the HVAC system. Leaky windows, leaky ductwork, and poor insulation can reduce efficiency, and you might find yourself just as comfortable if you lower your thermostat and add another layer of clothing. (Though, Amy certainly wouldn’t tolerate that solution in our house - LOL!)

4) Think about air quality and safety. Something as simple as changing the furnace filter regularly not only improves system performance but also limits allergens in the air, and can reduce run time, saving energy. The Meyer & Depew team can explore other factors that could improve air quality, ventilation, and more.

Some of these ideas you can tackle with your family, but for regular maintenance and evaluating whether a new system makes sense for your home, I suggest calling the team at Meyer & Depew. To get started, call 908-257-8075 or visit meyer-depew.com.

Oh, and be sure to check their website for their latest specials and financing deals. They have a few that expire Dec. 31!