Tough Winters Mean a Tough Heating Bill
The winters in Augusta, Maine can be brutal not only outside, but on one’s monthly heating budget as well. In February 2013, Jacob Michaud had had enough. He and his wife were burning through 200 gallons of fuel oil each month to heat their 3,500 square foot home. That translated into a monthly heating bill of $700 or more. The thermostat was set to a modest 69 degrees, with every degree fluctuation translating into serious dollars. Jacob admits that they were hyper-aware of even opening the front door too long or warming the house another degree, in fear of what it would cost them.
Jacob grew up in a house that used traditional oil, with a supplemental wood stove. He was aware of the savings associated with burning wood, but definitely didn’t want the hassle. When several of his friends and co-workers switched to pellet stove heat, Jacob was intrigued. “I would go over to my friend’s house and see how warm and toasty they all were. I kept hearing how much people liked their pellet stoves, and what other people were spending. I did the math, and it really was a logical choice.”
Jacob continues, “I found a great deal on a Magnum Countryside display unit, and did my homework. I called American Energy Systems and the heating technician knew exactly what I needed to help me get the pellet stove home, installed, and pumping out heat. I can’t speak highly enough about their customer service. This company is personable, very helpful, and their follow-up is impeccable. I know there are other pellet stove manufacturers out there, but I’m certain I wouldn’t get the same level of care and concern I get from the staff at American Energy Systems.”
Jacob’s first year owning and using a pellet stove, he experimented with several kinds of wood pellets. He’s found he prefers a quality wood pellet with a 35% soft wood content to generate the most heat in his stove. He’s considering giving corn a try, but is quite happy with the heat he’s getting now. Jacob estimated it saved him hundreds of dollars in the first few months alone! Imagine the savings after many years.
His advice for others considering a pellet stove? “Do the math. Spend a few minutes in someone’s home who has a pellet stove, and you’ll understand how much heat is generated for considerably less money. This Magnum Countryside pellet stove is minimal work, but the payoff is big!”