From all of us at Boston Connect Real Estate
CONGRATULATIONS To The Kane Family on the purchase of their new home in Hanover.

Sharon McNamara & Trish Flynn worked togetheras Team Members
and represented the Kanes as their personal Buyer’s Agents.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

You Can Reach Sharon McNamara, Realtor & Trish Flynn, Realtor Directly:
Sharon@BostonConnect.com & TFlynn@BostonConnect.com
Office:  781-826-7300

Talk Real Estate With Sharon McNamara
Wood Boring Insects In Massachusetts
Stephen Cook, Imperial Home Inspections

Listen To This Week’s Show – April 21, 2012

Talk Real Estate With Sharon McNamara
Plumbing & Heating
Mark McNamara, Owner – McNamara Plumbing Compnay

Listen To This Week’s Show – April 14, 2012

Home Maintenance 101: Purchasing a Hot Water Heater

The water heater is the second biggest energy drain in the home behind the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system—also known as the HVAC system. Yet when it comes to understanding the requirements and
specifications for water heaters, most homeowners don’t know the basics.

According to GE, almost 80 percent of consumers purchase a water heater only when their current unit breaks or leaks and they are forced to look for a quick replacement. But it’s important to know the facts about water heaters and
consider different options before making such an important purchase. The following tips will help you choose the best model for your home:

Look to energy guides and rebates
Pay attention to how much energy each water heating unit uses and pay special attention to those models that are Energy Star-qualified. By selecting an Energy Star-qualified appliance, you’ll not only gain the best energy savings, but these water heaters may also qualify for utility rebates, which can lead to a savings between $100 and $1,000 depending on your region. This savings often means replacing your water heater can be relatively inexpensive, allowing you to invest in a more energy-efficient model that will help with continued savings down the road.  Check the rebate finder at www.EnergyStar.gov for a list of rebates in your area.

Don’t purchase based on price alone
If you’re looking to save money, a moderately priced unit may seem appealing. But the truth of the matter is that water heating systems aren’t all created with efficiency in mind, and a cheaper unit up front may end up costing you more over
time.

Study fuel source and size
Before purchasing your replacement water heater, make sure to study the size and fuel source of your previous heater. You don’t want to downgrade to a smaller system, and you want to make sure you have plenty of space for your new appliance. In addition, make sure to replace an electric water heater with an electric model, and a gas heater with a gas model. Also, look for models with a heat pump, which helps with efficiency.

When in doubt, call the plumber
While some models boast of do-it-yourself capabilities, others require a plumber’s expertise. Plumbers can also provide recommendations for purchasing water heaters and can help ensure you choose a model with the proper connections.

Source:  RISMedia

For more information, visit www.familyfeatures.com.