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.

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 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.**

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**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

Electrification: Is it Feasible?

Electrification: Is it feasible?

Climate policy and reducing carbon emissions continues to be a hot topic amongst policymakers and community leaders. The discussions are good ones but is widespread electrification feasible?

Up for debate is electrification of home heating in New England with the thought that this electricity would be generated from renewable resources in order to achieve net-zero emissions. This plan seems simple and straightforward, but it most definitely makes a lot of inaccurate assumptions.

Currently, renewable fuels generate only 9% of New England’s electricity. During heightened demand periods like now, this percentage decreases as the grid relies on backup fuel from oil, coal, and liquid natural gas. Coupled with the fragile state of the electric grid and the fact that more than 85% of homes are currently not heated with electricity, an electric only plan is problematic. *

Former US Secretary of Energy, Ernest J. Moniz, stated in a recent Boston Globe piece: “[New England’s decarbonization] success would come earlier if the oil and gas industry uses its capabilities and workforce to advance net-zero solutions while avoiding stranded workers, stranded communities, and stranded assets.”

And this is exactly what our industry is doing! We have Bioheat which continues to get cleaner every year AND a commitment to reaching a net zero carbon footprint by 2050; a goal that is not attainable for electricity. If you haven’t heard about our industry’s initiative, learn more here.

*Sources: Page 3, Page 2-3

The Strength of Bioheat

The Strength of Bioheat®

As an industry, we have been working for the past two decades to forge our own path to net-zero emissions. The fuel we deliver today is called BioHeat®, a blend of ultra-low sulfur heating oil with biodiesel, a domestic, sustainable and renewable energy source. Currently, we deliver a 5 to 7% biodiesel blend to your homes. As an industry, we have committed to increasing that blend to 20% by 2023, 50% by 2030 and to have a net-zero carbon footprint by 2050!

To further this goal, a coalition of US energy fuel dealers and Midwest farmers have established Project Carbon Freedom to support the mission of advancing liquid biofuels as a solution to quickly, safely and affordably transition the country to a carbon-free way of life.

The economics of moving towards a 100% biodiesel blend have a long reach for many sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, service and transportation. Today, the biodiesel industry supports over 62,000 domestic jobs and billions in paid wages; as biodiesel consumption continues to ramp up, so will the economic benefits.

For consumers, the benefits are two-fold: a transition to higher biodiesel blends can occur with little to no impact on the consumer, and it will not only reduce their carbon footprint but higher levels of biodiesel have been proven to reduce service-related issues in heating equipment.

To learn more about electrification, Project Carbon Freedom and BioHeat®, visit ProjectCarbonFreedom.com

Reflections & Recognition

Reflections from our Annual Meeting

Every March for over a decade, we have gotten the entire Gault Family Companies team together for an Annual Meeting. It’s a time to share information about company goals and objectives and make sure every team member knows the direction we’re headed. We take it seriously - so much so that attendance is mandatory!

With a little creativity and safety precautions, we recently held our first Annual Meeting since 2019! There was A LOT to share; with Covid, hurricanes, and a real estate boom… we’ve been busy and our team has grown.

But most importantly, we focused on recognition: recognizing teams and departments that have shined over the last 18 months and recognizing individuals that have gone above and beyond during these difficult times. It’s what my grandfather always said, ‘we are only as good as the people we have working with us.’ This couldn’t be any truer than in today’s world - it’s what matters the most.

So, if you happened to be driving down 95 through Bridgeport that night, you may have noticed a sea of red trucks and vans out your window. Our entire team was socially distanced enjoying the beautiful new outdoor Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater!

Be well!

Sam Gault
President
Gault Family Companies

Heading South for the Winter

Heading South for the Winter?

If you have a seasonal home or you’re taking advantage of some great travel deals, it is important to proactively prepare and protect your home when away for an extended period of time this winter.

Monitor your heat:

No matter how you heat your home, maintaining your heat to a certain level is critical. Make sure your heating system is working properly prior to departing and set your thermostat to 55 degrees or higher.

Monitor your home:

Asking family, friends or neighbors to regularly check on your home in your absence can help prevent costly damage in freezing conditions. Flooding, freeze-ups and ice damns leads to millions in insurance claims annually. Water from broken pipes can flood an empty or unoccupied home in a matter of hours, causing structural damage to the house and loss of personal property.

And don’t forget…

Utilize the technology already in your home while away: program your smart thermostat, set up additional alerts, and adjust the cameras on your home security system to capture potential problem areas.

Interested in upgrading your home technology? Check out Winston, our smart home technology that provides solutions for your thermostat, water detection, energy use and more!

Gault Cares Returns in 2021!

Gault Cares Returned in 2021!

Planting at the Beardsley Zoo’s remodeled New England Farm Yard

Since its launch in 2018, our Gault Cares program has supported the many neighborhoods we serve by participating in service projects and events throughout the year. Like so many other programs, Gault Cares went virtual in 2020 with take-home volunteer projects, but as we look back on this year, we are happy that we found a way to bring our team back together for outdoor large-scale service projects this summer.

In addition, through our philanthropic partnership with Make-A-Wish Connecticut, we granted Wish-Kid Bella’s wish: to meet with the US Women’s Soccer Team. While Make-A-Wish works to schedule Bella’s wish, she joined us at our Annual Meeting to share this exciting moment with the Gault team. As we head into the season of giving, we encourage all our customers to consider donating to Make-A-Wish Connecticut to help makes dreams come true. Donate along with us at: GaultFamilyCo.com/makeawish

Follow along with us on our Instagram @GaultEnergy - we regularly post stories from our Gault Cares projects!

Take home service projects included seasonal card making

Granting Bella’s wish to meet the US Women’s Soccer team!

Prepare Now & Avoid Delays

Prepare Now & Avoid Delays

Prepare, prepare, prepare! That’s our mantra this season and we think it should be yours too!

Products and services simply aren’t as available now as in the past. We’re seeing longer lines in stories, lengthier timelines for home projects and limited availability of everyday goods. Even the US Postal Service asked that consumers start preparing in October for holiday deliveries!

Before the doldrums of winter hit, now’s the time to be proactive regarding your heating equipment and Bioheat tank. Availability remains a challenge for manufacturers facing staffing shortages and supply-chain disruptions resulting in delays that are passed on to the end consumer. So, the further in advance we can start planning your heating installation, the more options you will have when selecting equipment.

We always want to provide our customers the best equipment that fits their home and comfort needs. Now through November 30, enjoy up to $500 in savings on the purchase installation of a new heating system.

For more information visit www.gaultenergy.com/heat2021 or call 203.227.5181 to schedule an appointment with one of our Comfort Specialists.