Folsom California is a charming little city tucked into the north-eastern corner of Sacramento County with Folsom Lake bordering the north edge.
Although Folsom was established during the Gold Rush era, the real housing boom was created when corporate giants like Intel and Aerojet came to Folsom.
For many of these homes, the time has come to update their heating systems.
Any furnace that is more than 10 years old is nowhere near as efficient as today's heating systems.
Folsom residence are blessed with three things to help with heating their homes: access to natural gas in most homes, plenty of sunny days to take advantage of solar energy, and connection to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District with better electric rates than other companies provide.
However, all energy rates are expected to climb significantly with the passage of the "Carbon cap and trade" legislation.
While many people supplement their heater with a wood burning stove, this is not as practical as it once was.
While Folsom still has a lot of open land and a country feel in many areas, it is still within Sacramento County which has strict air quality controls that prohibit burning wood on some days.
Before you can even light the fire you must check to see if the Air Quality Management District has declared a "spare the air" day.
Violators will be fined unless they are exempt because wood burning is the only means to heat the home.
Few homes in Folsom will qualify for this exemption.
In the fall, homeowners should get an inspection and tune up of their current heating system in preparation for the winter.
This will ensure proper functioning and getting the best possible efficiency from the unit.
For older units, now is the time to consider replacing rather than repairing.
The newer heating units are exceptionally high tech and replacing can be very cost effective for homeowners who plan on staying in the home for a few years.
Federal tax credits up to $1500 are available through 2010 for 30% of the cost of a high efficiency replacement unit.
In some cases, rebates from the State or the local utility company may also apply.
This can lower the overall cost of getting a premium unit to less than the price of an average quality unit.
The real savings bonanza is with solar power.
Incredible advances have been made in solar technology.
A photovoltaic system will generate power for all electrical needs, not just for heating water like the early solar systems did.
The system is tied into the power grid to balance times when more electricity is needed or excess is produced.
Federal tax credits on qualifying units are 30% of cost with no cap.
Homeowners should select a reputable Folsom heating company experienced in all facets of home heating options, even if the initial visit is just to tune up an existing system.
A professional and knowledgeable representative would counsel the homeowner on their particular needs and what options are suitable for the home's unique environment.
A great company will also assist the homeowner in qualifying for appropriate tax credits and rebates.
So if you are facing a heating repair bill or if you have an older system and think you might be staying in your home a few more years, this is an overview of existing Folsom heating choices and why the available tax credits make upgrading a wise and economical decision.
Although Folsom was established during the Gold Rush era, the real housing boom was created when corporate giants like Intel and Aerojet came to Folsom.
For many of these homes, the time has come to update their heating systems.
Any furnace that is more than 10 years old is nowhere near as efficient as today's heating systems.
Folsom residence are blessed with three things to help with heating their homes: access to natural gas in most homes, plenty of sunny days to take advantage of solar energy, and connection to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District with better electric rates than other companies provide.
However, all energy rates are expected to climb significantly with the passage of the "Carbon cap and trade" legislation.
While many people supplement their heater with a wood burning stove, this is not as practical as it once was.
While Folsom still has a lot of open land and a country feel in many areas, it is still within Sacramento County which has strict air quality controls that prohibit burning wood on some days.
Before you can even light the fire you must check to see if the Air Quality Management District has declared a "spare the air" day.
Violators will be fined unless they are exempt because wood burning is the only means to heat the home.
Few homes in Folsom will qualify for this exemption.
In the fall, homeowners should get an inspection and tune up of their current heating system in preparation for the winter.
This will ensure proper functioning and getting the best possible efficiency from the unit.
For older units, now is the time to consider replacing rather than repairing.
The newer heating units are exceptionally high tech and replacing can be very cost effective for homeowners who plan on staying in the home for a few years.
Federal tax credits up to $1500 are available through 2010 for 30% of the cost of a high efficiency replacement unit.
In some cases, rebates from the State or the local utility company may also apply.
This can lower the overall cost of getting a premium unit to less than the price of an average quality unit.
The real savings bonanza is with solar power.
Incredible advances have been made in solar technology.
A photovoltaic system will generate power for all electrical needs, not just for heating water like the early solar systems did.
The system is tied into the power grid to balance times when more electricity is needed or excess is produced.
Federal tax credits on qualifying units are 30% of cost with no cap.
Homeowners should select a reputable Folsom heating company experienced in all facets of home heating options, even if the initial visit is just to tune up an existing system.
A professional and knowledgeable representative would counsel the homeowner on their particular needs and what options are suitable for the home's unique environment.
A great company will also assist the homeowner in qualifying for appropriate tax credits and rebates.
So if you are facing a heating repair bill or if you have an older system and think you might be staying in your home a few more years, this is an overview of existing Folsom heating choices and why the available tax credits make upgrading a wise and economical decision.
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