Where the stinging winds make eyelash icicles out of your winter tears…

So, it’s your first winter in Boston?

First things first, DO NOT let your home heating system go unchecked, you’ll be freezing all the way to your bones, and your poor toes will be swimming in a glacial puddle of melted snow inside your shoes.

Now, let’s turn that winter frown upside down. 🙂

Follow this checklist to make sure that you stay 100% warm (yes, it is possible!) before this dominating season befalls on you and you’re scrambling to stay warm in a frosty blizzard. Maintain the most comfortable body temperature inside or outside your home with these helpful tips to survive your 1st winter from our energy and oil company in Boston.

Why Indoor Warmth is Mandatory for Your 1st Winter in Boston

Have you ever heard the motto, “the best offense is a good defense?”

To prevent and handle any dangerous HVAC symptoms, then understanding required heater maintenance of your home is key if you want to have protection against the cold of winter. You can always put on more layers of clothing and blankets for warmth, but it will only do so much if your heater breaks or gets clogged.

Below, learn how to fully prepare your own home for winter by identifying problems before you’re really freezing your butt off.

Boilers, Radiators, Furnaces, Oh My!

You will be kicking yourself with you frostbitten limbs if you don’t learn the first things about  boilers, radiators, or furnaces. Here’s a crash course to identify your heating system before you’re scrambling in the frigid cold to call in a heating service technician.

If you take the necessary precautions to service or maintenance your heating systems this will ensure a very warm winter by the fireside. Even if you’re pretty sure you have all your bases covered, having a professional check it out is a safe bet before the winter begins.

If you’re living in Boston, you likely have one or more of these heating devices:

• 

  Example of iron household radiator

  Boilers – Typical of older homes in Boston, this device is the scary machine in your basement of your building that converts water into steam. It is powered by heating oil deliveries, electricity, or gas.

• Radiators – Once the steam leaves the boiler, it goes into a network of radiators, located at specific parts of your home or apartment building. Be careful and don’t touch these hot potatoes! The steam makes the metal of the radiators extremely hot!
• Furnaces – These babies used pressurized hot air and a thermostat to regulate the temperature in your home. Again, ensure that your supply of heating oil, electricity, or gas receives is maintained regularly to prevent any interruption in heat production during the coldest months.

At Bigelow, we are experts for how to stay warm in the winter since we’ve operated in Boston since 1945. Not sure when your heating system was last serviced? Hearing some strange noises in the night?

To help you prepare for the upcoming months of cold, read below about proper attire for Boston winter weather.

Correct Clothing for Your First Winter in Boston

You may be asking yourself, “Ok, I’ve got my indoor heating squared away, but what do I need to be warm when I go out on the town?”

Great question!

Boston Winter Clothing 101

Layering, layering, and more layering. You will need a whole arsenal of layers to keep you warm during your 1st winter in Boston!

If you haven’t already invested in a comprehensive winter wardrobe, here is your shopping list:

• Cotton T-shirts or Long-sleeves – This is the first layer, so you won’t get sweaty under all of the other layers. Most people won’t even see this shirt, so basic colors are fine.
• Sweaters – This is your second layer and it goes over your cotton shirt or long sleeves. Get a good range from light to heavy coverage, so you can vary your internal heat.
• Boots & Socks – Don’t forget about those feet that work so hard to get you to where you are going! Invest in a good pair of boots and socks that will last you for years to come!
• One Great Winter Coat – Shirts and sweaters are a dime a dozen, but a truly effective and warm winter coat is something you should research and invest in. Goodbye, $300-$500.
• Scarf, Hat, Gloves – While these fall into the “accessories” category of clothing, make sure they are actually warm as well. A good hat, scarf, and gloves will be the difference between cold and frostbite.
• Rain Gear – Yep, it rains in the winter when it’s not below freezing. It’s called freezing rain. Waterproof boots and a durable umbrella are both must-have investments for year-round dryness, not just in the winter.
• Pet Clothing – Your dog will need a little coat too. Not all dogs are bred to withstand the fierce elements of the Boston climate. Little booties are cute and will keep their little feet clean.

There is one thing to remember. If you are dressed properly during a Boston winter, it is absolutely possible that you can feel 100% comfortable forget that it’s cold. This is our end goal.

More Tips for Combatting the Winter in Boston

Wait, there’s more! Yes, that’s right.

Here are our last minute tips to make sure that this winter in Boston is the most enjoyable it can be for you, newcomer!

Winter Activities You’ll Enjoy

There are plenty of winter activities in Newton, MA that will make you never want to leave. We hope we didn’t scare you with all these preparation for winter.

It’s not that bad! To mention a few, there’s ice skating, sledding, and building snowmen! Try them all to see what you like.

Food Delivery on Speed Dial

That’s right, you don’t even have to leave your home. Get groceries and food delivered straight to your doorstep.

Research all kinds of (very successful) Boston businesses that make their living on people like you that really don’t want to leave their homes during inclement weather.

Seasonal Depression is a Real Issue

If you are new to seasonal depression or you have always been subject to it, it may be time to invest in a UV lamp.

Being out of the sun and indoors is a great way to get a Vitamin D deficiency, causing feelings of doom and gloom.

Having a UV lamp on hand will really raise your spirits, as it imitates the happy influence of the sun during our darker Bostonian days.

Also, make friends so you won’t be lonely all locked up indoors.

Winter Preparation For A Warmer Season

Bigelow Oil and Energy is here to help you prepare for the winter season, so you won’t be left out in the cold.

While prices are low, contact us for the best heating oil prices at a fixed rate. This is a limited time offer to ensure that your heating oil will stay the same price until April of next year, awesome!

Related Winter Topics

• 4 Heater Maintenance and Tune Up Tips
• When should I have maintenance performed on my heating and cooling systems?
• 3 Ways To Prevent Furnace Failure During Winter
• 3 Ways to Save Money On Heating Prices
• How long does it take to receive an Oil Delivery?

The post Surviving Your First Winter in Boston, MA – Tips For Warmth appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

Most people are consciously trying to save on energy costs. We have great intentions, but they don’t always translate into a proactive plan.

Here are some practical energy efficient tips that go beyond saving money will change how you think about energy use in your home.

Preventative Maintenance Is Key To Lower Future Costs

The equipment that is used to heat and cool your home can only provide maximum efficiency when it is maintained, and everyone knows that regular heater maintenance is much more cost-effective than repairing it every year.

Your home itself also needs some tending on a regular basis. Think about it. As winter approaches, you will start looking in the closet and evaluating jackets to make sure that they are serviceable and will keep you warm for another season.

You wouldn’t send your children out in the Massachusetts weather in a threadbare hoodie. Treat your home the same way. Use the warmer months to check things like the insulation around windows and doors. Make sure that your heating unit is serviced and ready to handle that first cold snap.

You’ve got a busy life, we get it. The cost of servicing a heater system in Boston is often recouped in the time you save by letting Bigelow manage the little details in keeping your home efficient.

A great way to manage preventative maintenance is Bigelow’s Total Comfort Plan. With benefits like free replacement and repair for basic parts, this service plan takes the hassle out of preventative maintenance.

Automate Your Home Whenever Possible

We live in a mobile society. Here is a big secret to saving money on energy costs: practice efficiency in your life as well as in your use of energy. There are many ways to automate energy saving practices.

A great example of this is a WiFi thermostat, where you can have your HVAC system automated.

Do you prefer the interior temperature of your home to be a little bit cooler at night when you sleep? That’s great…until you wake up to a cold Massachusetts morning and stamp around the kitchen in your heavy robe, a blanket, and thermal shirt while you wait for the coffee to brew and the furnace to do its job.

A WiFi thermostat actually learns your schedule and cools or heats your home accordingly. Couple a smartphone app with a WiFi thermostat and you’ve got energy saving power in the palm of your hand. Even works from your WiFi flight.

With an app you can make real-time adjustments to your heating and cooling so your home is nice and cozy when you get home from work, and you can even connect it to the lighting and other energy-dependent items in your home.

Create an Energy Saving Routine

Okay, routines are boring and tedious…

Maybe, but your teeth sure benefit from one. An energy saving routine is just as valuable as flossing after you brush, and, like taking care of your health, it only takes a few minutes a day to implement.

Get in the habit of looking at the insulation around doors and windows. When you’re tidying up the bedrooms, check those vents to make sure they are clear and functioning properly. When your heating bill goes down, you’ll feel almost as good as you do when the dentist praises your oral health.

Use Your Home’s Natural Resources

This is a big one that many people overlook. Window treatments aren’t something you necessarily associate with saving energy, but day lighting can make a difference.

Closing the blinds in the summer to help shield against the heat and opening them in the winter to let the sun in are examples of how little things can contribute to big savings.

You must make your home an ally in the battle to reduce energy costs. Make it work for you instead of against you. This also applies to how well you maintain your heating and cooling units.

Think of your appliances as soldiers on the front line. No general is happy sending ill-prepared soldiers into battle. Things like taking the time to tune up your heater with maintenance will go a long way toward preventing costly repairs.

Never Underestimate the Importance of Filters

How often do you defrag the hard drive on your computer, do a disk cleanup, or clean the computer’s fan with compressed air? Once a month? Now ask yourself why you do these things.

The real reason you do them is probably the fear of a crash and having to buy a new system.

Well, the filters on your heating and cooling units do the exact same job. They trap nasty particles that can impair performance and impact a unit’s livelihood as well as future costs.

When you think about the time and expense of changing your filters compared to the cost of a new unit, you’ll start taking the time for maintenance. If you think three or four days without Facebook is bad, try a week in the cruel New England winters without heat.

Rethink Solar For Your Home

Gone are the days when solar energy was simply too expensive to incorporate into the home.

You can even receive a tax credit if you install an Energy Star-approved solar device. Up to 30% of the cost of the device can be claimed, and since it’s a credit, the amount is applied directly to your tax payment.

When you think about solar, sometimes it helps to think small. Many people only think about solar energy in terms of powering the entire home, and that can be overwhelming to consider.

The fact is that individual appliances like a solar water heaters are more affordable than you might think and provide a good introduction to solar energy and how it is used.

Consider Replacing Older Units

If you have an older heating or cooling unit, it may be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model. There are practical considerations here. If you are settled and plan to own your current home for the long haul, it pays to think about the cost of a new unit versus how much you will save.

The important thing is to put considerations of energy efficiency above other modifications. The extra bedroom you want to build isn’t going to put more money in your pocket. However, you sure can apply the money you save on energy costs to adding that bedroom at a later time.

Prioritize your home maintenance obligations and desired modifications. Remember what we said about making your home an ally? You wouldn’t spring for a new paint job on that classic Impala if the engine is shot. Let practicality trump aesthetics and use the money you save to make the other improvements you desire.

Use a Combination of Natural and Electric Lighting

This is an area where you can get very creative. Do you really need that night light in the bathroom, or will a nice pillar candle do the trick? You might even consider a candlelit dinner every now. Perhaps you could enjoy that book on the patio in the afternoon sun, instead of inside under a lamp.

Sometimes, we get into a way of thinking that turning off a light or two now and then really doesn’t make a difference. Well it does! Try it for a month and you might be surprised how much electric lighting you are using that serves no practical purpose.

Educate Yourself About Energy Use

Energy is something we take for granted.

We really don’t want to know how a power grid works. We just want to flip a switch and have everything turn on. That’s okay, but it pays to inform yourself about how energy efficiency impacts you as well as future generations.

Try to separate thoughts of energy efficiency from the hoopla around climate change, carbon footprints, and such. Being responsible and trying to conserve isn’t political, it’s just good common sense.

Think of yourself as a steward, a caretaker of the resources you use. Are you being a good steward? No one is asking you to become the next Ralph Nader. Just be informed.

The post Energy Efficient Tips To Help Lower Your Bills appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

When it’s not unbearably hot or cold outside and you don’t want to stay in your comfortable, temperature controlled home, there are plenty of educational and fun things to do in this historic city.

In this post, explore 10 options for family friendly activities to do in Newton no matter what the weather is outside. We’ve separated the suggestions into year round activities and specifically summer/fall family fun!

Year Round Family Activities in Newton

No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something happening in Newton. Below are activities for any weather. For year round fun, be sure to check in with the Newton Community Pride group for a list of events or festivals!

1. Newton Free Library

The Newton Free Library has a large children’s reading area with audio and video selections and a toddler room for those not yet at the reading age. Parents can also inquire about the library’s museum pass offerings.

2. New Philharmonia Orchestra

Newton’s New Philharmonia Orchestra typically performs six concerts a season, so look for tickets ahead of time.

The orchestra also has a family series of short concerts for ages two to ten. What’s really fun is the instrument “petting zoo” where kids can try out the instruments.

3. Local History: Underground Railroad, Civil War, and More!

History buffs will enjoy the war-themed dioramas in Newton City Hall. Kids who play with toy soldiers will love looking at the miniature figures depicting scenes from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and World War I.

Here are three well-known historical sites suitable for family excursions:

• The Jackson Homestead – A stop on the Underground Railway.
• The Durant-Kenrick House – Dates from 1732. Families can enjoy historical-themed games and puzzles.
• Hemlock Gorge – This is the site of Echo Bridge. From under the bridge, your kid’s voice will echo across the gorge. The bridge’s remarkable acoustical properties even allow for a whisper to be answered several times over.

Summer Family Activities in Newton

Although you can cool off on a hot summer’s day by jumping in a lake, don’t neglect any needed repairs for your air conditioner. Here are some ways to enjoy the outdoors in the summer.

4. Playgrounds: Discover A New One!

What makes Newton unique is also what makes it so family friendly. You see, Newton was composed of 13 separate villages that merged together, so you can be sure to find at least 13 separate playgrounds for year round fun.

5. Walking: Burn Off Those Calories

Newton is a great place for family walks. Here are just a few suggestions:

• Stroll among the mansions on Commonwealth Avenue.
• Walk, jog or bike along paved, easy-to-navigate paths at the edge of the Charles River.
• Run, jog or just stroll along the banks of the Chestnut Hill Reservoir.
• Follow the shoreline paths around Crystal Lake or Norumbega Park.
• Walk up Heartbreak Hill, part of the Boston Marathon.

6. Water Sports: Swimming, Canoeing, Kayaking

Crystal Lake is just one of many swimming spots in Newton. There is a friendly crew of young lifeguards and summer swim lessons for kids.

As for canoeing and kayaking – You can take to the water and your child can learn to paddle on the Charles River. An outfitter on the river will rent you a canoe or kayak.

7. Rock Climbing

Hammond Pond Reservation includes some large geographical formations popular with rock climbers. You can also fish, hike, or study nature and geology.

Winter Family Activities in Newton

Before the onset of cold weather, don’t neglect your heating system service. Regular heater maintenance and tune up can save you from the unpleasant surprise of your heater breaking down on the coldest day of the year.

Here are some Newton locales to provide you with some family winter fun.

8. Skating

The indoor Daly Rink or, if the temperature cooperates, skate outdoors at one of several locations including the Cove in Auburndale, Crystal Lake, and Bullough’s Pond.

9. Sledding and Snowboarding

Popular sledding spots include the grounds of the Fessenden School and Bobby Braceland Park.

10. Going to the Movies

The West Newton Cinema has a rotation of many classic films that are showing year round. Be sure to check the roster to see if there are any Disney classics that the kids would enjoy.

The post 10 Fun Family Activities To Do in Newton appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

Amazingly refreshing air conditioning and comfortingly warm heaters make being at home that much more satisfying.

However, no HVAC system is failsafe, and occasionally things can go wrong, disastrously wrong – resulting in dangerous HVAC problems.

Understanding The Signs Of Dangerous HVAC Problems

Dangerous HVAC problems can be caused by a number of things – incompetent installation, an aging system, lack of sufficient maintenance, and failing components.

All of these factors can lead to potentially dangerous malfunctions needing immediate attention by HVAC install technicians. The following is a list of danger HVAC problems that should be regarded as red flags and never ignored.

For immediately assistance with a dangerous HVAC problem, please give us a call at (617) 964-1600 right away!

Problem #1 – A Smell of Rotten Eggs

Your furnace naturally emits a slight odor that you don’t even notice. But, a strong smell of rotten eggs is an indication that there is a gas leak somewhere in your home possibly coming from your furnace.

You should immediately call the gas company and leave your house until the leak has been safely repaired.

After safety has been restored, your heating service repair technician will give your system a thorough going over. Gas leaks are dangerous HVAC problems causing explosions & several deaths each year.

Problem #2 – A Smell of Overheating

If something smells as if it’s overheating, then it probably is. A motor could be burning out or electrical wiring could be damaged or badly frayed.

Whatever the underlying cause, an electrical smell means there is a danger of the problem escalating and causing burns or a fire.

If you experience any kind of electricity-related dangerous HVAC problem, you should turn your unit off at the master switch and contact your local HVAC professional immediately.

Problem #3 – A Smell of Burning

All furnaces emit a burning smell within the first twenty-four hours after startup – caused by applied oil to ensure smooth operation.

However, if the odor lasts longer than twenty-four hours or returns at some later point this could be a sign of a dangerous HVAC problem.

You should use the shutoff valve to turn off the furnace and also shut off the oil supply. Contact your local heater maintenance service professional immediately.

Problem  #4 – A Musty Smell

An air conditioning system is prone to a buildup of condensation that generates a significant amount of moisture inside the unit.

This moisture can migrate into the air ducts and cause a buildup of mold which will make its presence known by its musty smell.

Mold, one of the dangerous HVAC problems that can affect your system, is unsafe to breathe because it can cause respiratory problems.

An air conditioning repair technician can easily and quickly remedy this situation by a thorough air duct cleaning and can also determine where the moisture is coming from.

Problem #5 – Leaks

Visible leaks or a small pool of accumulated moisture from your HVAC unit are common HVAC problems.

However, a leak could be an indication of more dangerous HVAC problems that you may need an expert to find, and puddles can cause mold buildup.

If you can’t trace the leak yourself, contact your local HVAC professional.

The post 5 Common HVAC Problems That Are Dangerous appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

Since we bought our first oil truck in 1945, Newton, MA, has been the cornerstone of our family business.

It’s been an amazing experience to have worked together with small businesses, families, friends, and customers in our historic town. In honor of our roots, we researched the history of the beautiful neighborhood that inspired us to start an oil company in Boston.

If you have any stories to add, please send us an email or submit a comment as we learn together about the city of Newton’s history.

Tell Us About Your Family’s Newton History

Though we have done extensive research, there are still many pages missing from the storybook of Newton.

This is where we need your help! Together, we can tell the story of our parents and their parents’ parents. Here is your opportunity to share what you know!

Comment below with your own personal stories of family and the growth of this community. We hope you will take a few minutes to tell us the history you know. Tell us what you think makes Newton such a special place to live.

A Brief History of Newton

Newton is similar to a thoughtfully crafted patchwork quilt. Each of the original 13 villages that make up the present-day Newton were formed separately based on the access to nearby rivers, railroads, or mills.

Even while the villages agreed to become a unified community, each neighborhood maintained an individual personality.

Our Bigelow family history is tied to the Upper Falls village. The village was originally dependent on mills because of its location along the Charles River.

The remaining villages were also built at optimal places along the railroads, rivers, and roads. During the industrial revolution, this strong New England town was a hive of productivity.

As it stands today, Newton continues to be an industrial network, especially being within 45 minutes from the center of Boston. We here at Bigelow Oil and Energy are grateful for the community that this beautiful city has fostered. We look forward to furthering economic growth for many generations to come as our local heating oil delivery service expands.

Fun Facts about Newton
, MA

• The delicious Fig Newton snack was named after Newton. Nabisco, formerly known as the Kennedy Biscuit Company, named several of its products after towns in Massachusetts.

• In 2014, Newton was named #15 of the best places to live in the U.S. by Money Magazine.

•  Based on the U.S. Census, Newton is the 11th largest city in the state.

• Newton is currently listed as the #1 safest place to live in the U.S. on Aneki.com.

• Newton is home to Boston Marathon’s infamous “Heartbreak Hill.” The heartbreak happened when marathon champion, Johnny Kelley, was defeated by an underdog, Tarzan Brown, after they crossed the 4th and final hill before the race’s end.

The post History of Newton: 13 Villages, One Community appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

Now you get home from work, your place is freezing, and all you have are leftovers from the night before.

Before you get down on yourself, we want to know, do you have a WiFi thermostat? No? Hm, seeing any connection here?

Bigelow WiFi Thermostats

Obviously having a WiFi thermostat translates to a warm, cozy place?to come home to. Although it doesn?t cook for you, it pretty much does everything else.

Follow us as you walk you through your new life with a WiFi thermostat. You be the judge.

Benefits of a WiFi Thermostat

Let?s be frank. Owning a WiFi Thermostat makes life so much easy. At first, you have to pay attention to it more than you did your previous thermostat. But, after a few weeks, it starts to take care of itself.

Benefit #1: It Remembers & Adjusts To Your Schedule

Imagine waking up to a warm, cozy home every morning, without having the heat on all night. Your WiFi thermostat learns your schedule and
knows when to turn on or off.

Every day, when you wake up for work at 6 am, it will turn on at 5:45 to make sure your wake up to the perfect temperature.

It feels nice to be able to walk around in your pajamas and not have to carry around a blanket, huh?

Coffee pots on. Time to jump in the shower and get the day started!

Benefit #2: You Can Control It From Your Smartphone

No matter where you are in the world, you?ll be able to control and monitor the temperatures of your home in Boston.

Pretty much every WiFi thermostat has an app you can use to turn it on or off. Use this handy tool to see energy usage reports, or even receive notifications when you need heating system service.

When you integrate the smart thermostat with other Home Automation tools, you can control everything in your house – from cooling and heating?to door locks and security cameras.

Wow. Say goodbye to the days of forgetting to turn off the heat or AC.

Benefit #3: Motion Sensors Alert Thermostat To Turn On

This is the best benefit for large homeowners. That’s owners of large homes not? you know what we mean. With sensors scattered throughout the house, WiFi thermostat will be notified when there are people in the room.

Think about it. Everyone is home, but they are all in the living room watching movies.

The smart sensors will turn off the heating or cooling on the entire second floor, registering that there is no one upstairs.

This perk ensures that your home is as energy efficient and comfortable as possible.

Then there’s less impact on the environment because of the decreased energy usage. That’s how you kill two birds with one stone!

Benefit #4: It Saves You Money On Your Energy Bill

It will only cool or heat where necessary and when necessary. Most of these WiFi thermostats are designed specifically to save you money.

As your thermostat utilizes motion sensors and learns your schedule at home, your bills will slowly diminish.

Say goodbye to wasting your hard earned paycheck on your energy bill.

Have You Already Installed Home Automation?

The new you is saying,?Yes, I have!? Yet, did you know you can control more than just your WiFi thermostat in your home?

Using your smartphone, you can connect your lights, door locks, and security cameras. You can even program all of them to turn on and off whenever you want.

So next time you?re getting crazy in Panama City Beach, your house is taking care of itself.

If you have answered this question with ?No, I haven?t already installed home automation.? Well, what are you waiting for?!

Actually, it would probably help if we filled you in on the different types of smart & WiFi thermostats, huh?

Different Types of Smart & WiFi Thermostats

Having trouble deciding which thermostat is the best for your situation??

What you need to look at and think about are: energy savings, home size, functionalities, and home automation integration.

Best For Saving Money On Energy Bills – Nest

The Nest 3rd Generation is the best of the best, no questions asked.

This thermostat learns your cooling and heating habits and adapts automatically to your schedule.

The more you use the Nest thermostat, the more it learns about you, and the more money you save.

There is no better thermostat out there, exclusively designed to save you money and reduce your impact on the environment.

Best Bang For Your Buck – Honeywell

The Honeywell is the best thermostat for small and medium sized homeowners.

It has a simple design, touch screen, and matching application.

That?s right – you can control it when you aren?t even home. It will even send you notifications when you need air conditioning repairs?as well as monitoring the temperature and humidity levels outdoors.

The Honeymoon is everything you need in a thermostat. No doubt, it is the best value for your money.

Best If You?re Ballin? A Budget – Emerson Sensi

Let?s face it. There are other things you could spend your money on, but you still want an awesome thermostat!

You can control it from the Wink app, it saves you money on your energy bills, and you can program it.

The only difference with Emerson Sensi is the price.?This is, without a doubt, the best thermostat for when you?re ballin? on a budget.

Best For Large Homes – ecobee3

Dang, check you out in your 2 story house. Must be working pretty hard….too hard in fact to be paying that much to cool and heat your home.

We want to introduce you to an old friend, ecobee3. The most unique feature of the ecobee3 is the remote motion sensors.

Place them throughout the house, especially in the rooms you are in the most, and let them do their magic.

The sensors let the ecobee3 know you are all downstairs getting your party on and to turn the heater off upstairs. Get jiggy wid? it and save on them bills. The ecobee3 has your back.

If you haven?t figured it out already, Home Automation is the way of the future. It?s time to let go of the past and start embracing the now.

 

WiFi Thermostats Need Professional Installation

While it’s easy to automate your life, we don’t recommend doing it by yourself.

There is a very high chance you will lose your WiFi forever and will never be able to watch Netflix again? JUST KIDDING! ?But seriously – don?t install it by yourself.

If a HVAC service?technician doesn?t analyze your thermostat set-up before installation, there is a greater chance of a more costly visit. If you want to try, our Boston Oil Company?is pleased to come help you fix your incorrect installation, too.

In summation, we have the tools, knowledge, and resources to ensure that your ideal smart thermostat is compatible with the voltage in your home. Take it easy and let us do the dirty work.

Honestly, just become a new customer.?We will?handle it so you don?t even have to worry about it. Just to help you picture it, our installation and total comfort plan will go something like this.

Bigelow Installs WiFi Thermostats

After hearing about your thermostat issues (don?t worry we wanted to) we will show you a few different options for WiFi Thermostat.

We will then review the features briefly and explain how to maximize your savings on your energy bill.

Thirty minutes later, we will install the fixture, help you download the app, and watch you take a load off.

After a quick demo of how the WiFi thermostat works, we will leave you two alone to get to know each other.

Now look at you! Work off early, drinking with some old friends on a glorious Friday night, all while your home is waiting for you to come home so it can warm you up.

The post Wifi Thermostat appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

We are pleased to announce the opening of our new bulk plant!

This high capacity bulk distribution facility will reduce our impact on the environment and further prevent delivery delays for heating oil in Newton and surrounding areas.

Upgraded Oil Distribution Facility

This newly opened bulk distribution plant in MA, is located on site at our headquarters in Newton, Massachusetts and features double-walled oil tanks with reinforced protection for the environment.

New protective double-walled tanks with advanced leak monitoring at our facility.

We have taken every precaution necessary to ensure safe functioning of this new facility for many years to come. We are proud to feature new advancements in leak-proof and fire resistant technology.

These new protective double-walled tanks with advanced leak monitoring are the cutting edge of the oil distribution industry, eliminating the possibility of spills.

With this new functional upgrade, our family business will continue to stay environmentally friendly, while maintaining a consistent supply of heating oil for the surrounding communities.

Providing for Our Massachusetts Communities Since 1945

As one of the only independent heating oil companies in the Metro West / Greater Boston Areas, this bulk plant acts as a local supply source, not only our own customers but for all heated homes in the community.

Before reaching our bulk plant, the oil is transported many miles from oil tankers on the coast. Tough winters and snowfall make transport more difficult when roads are not as manageable – whether it be for oil supply or heating system service and repair.  This oil distribution facility will make it much easier to maintain an autonomous, steady supply of oil.

While some companies have come and gone, Bigelow Oil & Energy has made conscious decisions for the planet for over 70 years. As an integral part of the supply chain, we take our supplier responsibilities very seriously around Newton and surrounding communities.

The commitment to consistently deliver for our customers & provide a reliable supply of heating oil has always been the true fuel of our passions.

Proud to Protect the Environment in Newton

As we continue to deliver safely moving into the future, we are proud of the investments that we have made to help the community and to protect our planet.

Here’s to a new, eco-friendly facility so we can continue providing heating oil deliveries without delay in 2016 and beyond.

The post New Oil Distribution Facility for a Safer Environment appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

This month we would like to honor our lead service technician, Tim, for going above and beyond to deliver for our customers and team members.

A Couple of Weeks Turned into 16 Years

A special fan favorite of all the customers, Tim has been installing heating systems in Boston with Bigelow for over 16 years.

When we say we treat our employees like family, we mean it.

Tim is a second generation employee, following in his father’s footsteps, and began working at Bigelow while attending high school.

“I was only supposed to be here for a couple of weeks, and now it’s been 16 years,” Tim said with a laugh.

When asked how working for Bigelow for a couple weeks turned into a total comfort plan, Tim explained that he really enjoys his work. “I love the fact that Bigelow is a family business. It’s low stress and the concern is not with the numbers, but it’s all about the people,” Tim explained.

Unlike other companies, Bigelow gives him the opportunity to succeed without imposing strict hours on his work schedule. Not only that, but it’s only 5 minutes from his house. “I do most of the installs,” he says, “point me in the direction and I’ll go and do it.”

Bigelow Energy is a Family Business

Tim’s father, Tony, began working at Bigelow in 1982 when Tim was only 2 years old. At that time, Bigelow was the only oil company around.

As the son of a senior employee, Tim was trained in heater maintenance by his father, who is now Service Manager. Tim’s father still spends most of his days mentoring and training the new hires.

When asked what position Tim desired of any role within the company, he chose his own job again.

Since he loves his work so much, Tim plans to continue working with Bigelow for many years to come – but he admits it would be nice to be Vice President.

More About Tim

Tim is a Newtonville native and still resides there with his wife, Alexandra, and their beautiful daughter, Kylie, 11.

When he is not working as qualified technician, Tim enjoys the outdoor life and often goes on long hikes through the countryside.

When asked what makes Tim a good employee, Nick Nicolazzo III, head honcho at Bigelow Oil & Energy says, “Any positive spin you can put on my friend, Tim, is deserving. He is a wonderful guy.”

The post Employee Spotlight: Lead Service Technician appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

Prevention is really the best policy and knowing the signs of a furnace about to go on the fritz will prevent your family from experiencing an uncomfortable surprise this winter.

However, if you haven’t maintained your furnace and the temperature is dropping, it’s not too late to ask for some professional help.

Regular maintenance visits from your oil company will preserve your investment, prevent furnace failure, and keep your family warm for many winter seasons to come.

This article describes three ways to prevent furnace failure in your home.

For help with your heating system in Boston, please contact us at 617.964.1600

1. Prevention, Extend the Lifespan of your Furnace

The worst time for your furnace to malfunction is in the middle of this coming winter’s first snow storm.

Prevention, prevention, prevention!

Last year’s heavy snows should have lodged in your memory prompting you to arrange for heater maintenance and cleaning of your heating system.

The hidden cost of neglect

Your neglected furnace will have been silently paying you back by steadily collecting debris, dust, and dead insects.

Over time, grime from the air filter can migrate to the blower motor causing it to overheat and burn out the fuse. When the fuse itself becomes encrusted with soot and debris, the connection will break, causing the fuse to fail.

Dealing with an old furnace

If your furnace is aging, and particularly if it’s more than fifteen years old, it’s time to consider replacing it before it begins to turn into a fossil.

2. Know the Signs of a Failing Furnace

So, the cold season has arrived, and your furnace is busy trying to keep frigid nights from invading your home.

If your furnace is trying to tell you that it’s in need of repairs, ignoring the following warning signs could deliver a cold and expensive surprise to you and your family.

Some rooms are hotter than others

If you are sweating in one room and freezing in another, this is a sign that warm air is not being distributed efficiently.

You are hearing popping, rattling, groaning, whining, or banging

If your furnace is providing you with a symphony of odd noises, this is your furnace’s cry for help!

The only acceptable sound from your furnace is that of the blower turning on and off.

However, if the blower is doing this constantly, your furnace is not running efficiently. If you constantly have to press “reset,” this also is not a good sign.

You are experiencing rising energy bills

You have complained to your wife about saving money on heating with rising utility bills, but have laid the blame on the price of energy. However, the increased expense may be because your furnace is having to work harder to provide the same amount of heat.

Your burner flame is yellow

This is not a matter of aesthetics – it should be blue. If it’s yellow, this is a sign that your furnace may be leaking carbon monoxide. Other omens include sooty streaks around the furnace, moisture on cold surfaces such as walls or windows, and rust on the flue pipes.

Your family has increased health problems

Members of your family have seen a rise in breathing-related health issues such as allergies and asthma. A poorly functioning heating system may be putting mold, dust, and other irritants into the air circulating through your house.

3. Keep Your Vents and Pipes Clear of Snow for Oil Deliveries

A weekend storm has dumped more than a foot of snow on your property, and your kids are in a high state of excitement. However, before joining them in a snowball fight, it’s more important to keep their safety in mind.

Blocked vents and pipes can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide inside your home.

So, pull on your high boots, put on your down jacket, grab your shovel, and get out there to clear snow drifts and ice away from your furnace intake and exhaust pipes. Make sure that all vents coming out of your house are clear.

Sign up for a total comfort plan, which, as the name implies, will provide your family with just that. It will keep your furnace running without interruption of oil delivery.

Think of Your Oil Company

As the white stuff piles up outside your door make sure that your access pipes are clear and accessible for any needed delivery of heating oil to keep your family warm and cozy. So, enlist your teenagers to help, and get out there in the winter wonderland before the deliverers arrive.

Tip – You can help prevent snow buildup on your venting pipes by constructing a plywood A-frame over the pipe and up against the side of the house.

The post 3 Ways To Prevent Furnace Failure During Winter appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.

In this post, we will explain the advantages of heater maintenance as well as define the common heating issues you will come across if left unchecked by a professional.

From over running your heating system during the holidays to shutting it off for the summer season, there are many problems your heating system faces year round.

Your heating system is very complex in structure and operation, which is why it’s always a good idea to get a routine heater maintenance and tune up inspection completed by a trained professional.

Did you know?

9 out of 10 heating and cooling system fail as a result of dirt and/or dust.

Importance of Routine Heater Maintenance Tune Up

We recommend a heating system service inspection done at least twice a year, once towards the end of the summer and once after the heating season, to avoid any unnecessary worries.

When the “heating system usage” season is over and the system is shut off for months, the system can run into some operational problems that can lead to some pretty costly maintenance issues.

These issues can cause spikes in your energy bill, uncomfortable temperatures in your home, and costly repairs when you can’t spare losing your heating system.

Never have to worry about your heater or air conditioner breaking down by signing up for our Total Comfort Service Plan for preventative maintenance ALL year around.

Advantages to Heater Maintenance and Tune Up Issues You May Experience:

1. Increase the health and safety of the people living in your home

When fossil fuels are burned they omit harmful gases. Your furnace is designed to properly exhaust these gases outside and NOT in your home. However, without a routine heater maintenance and tune up, your furnace could be cracked or malfunction and not properly exhaust these gases outside your home.

2. Decrease the chances of a full system breakdown

Your heating system works extra hard to maintain the indoor temperature, especially during the holiday season. After being off for months during the summer, the high increase in usage could result in a system failure.

Take advantage of oil prices being the lowest in 10 years by signing up for our Fixed Price Program or Budget Plan to help you Save Money On Heating this winter.

3. Increase the lifespan of your system

According to Department of Energy, “proper maintenance extends the life of your furnace or boiler and saves you money.” A system that runs regularly is a system that saves the most money and the average furnace replacement can range from $3,000.00 – $10,000.00! Yikes!

4. Validate your heating system warranty

Some warranties can become voided if equipment is not regularly inspected by an HVAC technician. By getting a heater maintenance and tune up, you validate your warranty and if any major issues do occur, you won’t be paying for a new system out of your own pocket.

Remember that each system is unique in the type of fuel it uses, so make sure to only use the recommended fuel type. Let us help on those especially cold days with our timely heating oil delivery service to all the surrounding Boston areas.

The post 4 Heater Maintenance and Tune Up Tips appeared first on Bigelow Oil & Energy.