Carolina Fuels Acquires Kallam Oil Company

Reidsville, NC

October 17, 2017

Carolina Fuels is merging with Kallam Oil Company, a leading provider of heating oil, propane, and commercial fuels in Madison, NC, marking yet another acquisition by Berico Fuels. Carolina Fuels, a division of Berico Fuels, supplies residential and commercial fuel, propane, and HVAC services to customers in Rockingham County, and the surrounding area. This merger with Kallam Oil marks the fifth acquisition for Berico Fuels since January 2016. With each transaction, Berico expands their customer base and service area, making it more convenient for residents and businesses to receive services.

A well-respected company, Carolina Fuels offers a full range of residential and commercial services including heating oil and propane delivery, as well as heating and air conditioning repair, installation, and maintenance, fleet fueling, and other commercial fuel services. The Carolina Fuels executives have always admired Kallam Oil for its excellent reputation in the community and is proud to continue the stellar service that Kallam customers have come to expect.

The Carolina Fuels staff welcomes Kallam Oil customers with service specials such as $0.05 per gallon discount on the first residential oil or kerosene delivery and $35 off the first furnace or AC tune-up or HVAC repair service. Berico’s complete home comfort care services are now available to Kallam Oil customers as well as potential new customers in the area.

As the company grows, Berico Fuels continues to uphold their commitment to excellence in service and quality in the industry. Berico’s owner, Will Berry said, “Berico is actively looking for opportunities that will help us grow and provide customers with the best services possible.”

Affordable Services Available to New and Existing Customers

Berico is an all-in-one home comfort provider. They offer “Keep-Fill & E-Z Payment” programs to ease the burden for our fuel customers.  Going above and beyond heating fuel and propane delivery, with heating and cooling system installation, maintenance, and repair, Berico also combines home comfort into one complete package, called the Comfort and Protection Service Agreement. Berico’s services also include agricultural fuels, fleet fueling for commercial businesses that require diesel, gasoline, and kerosene delivery, as well as motor oil and lubricants. Home comfort services even extend to maintenance and installation of household equipment like gas logs and generators.

For complete information, please visit: Berico Heating & Air Conditioning
Media Contact:
Berico Heating & Air Conditioning
2200 E. Bessemer Ave
Greensboro, NC 27405
(336) 273-8663

Perks of Installing a High Efficiency Heating System

thermostatWondering if you could benefit from a new high efficiency heating system? There are certainly a lot of perks to high efficiency furnaces and other heating equipment. If your current heating system is old and starting to show signs of its age, such as higher fuel bills and insufficient heating, replacing it now is a wise choice. Planning for furnace installation in Greensboro, NC, before winter comes offers additional advantages.

Benefits of Upgrading to a High Efficiency Furnace

  1. Save money on heating fuel. Whether you have natural gas, propane, or heating oil, a high efficiency furnace will require less fuel to heat your home than your old furnace. Your monthly gas bill will be lower, and you will require fewer refills of your propane or heating oil tank.
  2. Enjoy more consistent warmth. A high efficiency furnace heats your home more evenly and offers a more lasting warmth than your old furnace. Your home will maintain its goal temperature for longer and throughout each room.
  3. Quieter operation. New furnaces, especially high efficiency ones, are designed to run much more quietly than old furnaces. Been noticing a lot of noise coming from your heating system this season? That’s another sign of an aging furnace. Gain some significant peace and quiet with new furnace installation in Greensboro, NC.

Advantages to Upgrading your Heating System Now

Even when you know replacement is needed, it may be tempting to put off this particular undertaking until it gets cold. Resist this temptation and get your new furnace installation scheduled now. Here are the reasons why:

  • If your old furnace fails on a cold winter night, you’ll find yourself in an emergency situation. Not having heat on a freezing night can become dangerous quickly. You may be forced to call your HVAC company after close of business. After-hours and emergency fees apply in these situations, meaning you’ll pay extra for the same services.
  • HVAC companies get busy during the winter and may not be available to replace your furnace when it breaks down. If your heat breaks down in winter, its highly likely that your HVAC company will be busy repairing and replacing systems for other customers. You could be waiting in the cold for days before help arrives, or even be forced to stay elsewhere until your system can be replaced.

 Call Berico for High Efficiency Furnace Installation in Greensboro, NC

Now is the time to take advantage of the current specials being offered by Berico. If you’ve been thinking about furnace replacement, it’s likely your air conditioning was installed at the same time in one complete HVAC system. If your furnace needs to be replaced, your air conditioning surely does too as AC systems typically don’t last as long as furnaces. Berico is offering a free furnace installation with any air conditioning installation. Been thinking about switching to heating oil? You can get a $500 rebate for installing a new oil furnace or tank.  So don’t wait any longer. Start gaining all the perks that come with new high efficiency furnace installation in Greensboro, NC. Call Berico (336)273-8663.

Tips on Switching from Electric to Propane Heat

Carolina Fuels Propane TankDoes your home have an electric heating system? Have you ever wondered if there’s another, possibly better, way to heat your home? There is. It’s called propane, and it has many advantages over electric heat. Switching is easy. It only requires a new furnace and propane tank installation in Reidsville, NC. If your furnace is getting old or requires frequent repairs, now is the time to consider switching to propane.

Advantages of Heating with Propane

  • Efficiency. Propane is a high-efficiency heating fuel. Less propane is required to heat your home than electricity.
  • Affordability. Propane is an affordable source of energy for home heating when compared to electricity, heating oil, and natural gas.
  • Versatility. In addition to heating your home, propane can be used for appliances like stoves, ovens, clothes dryers, and water heaters.
  • Safety. Propane is a non-toxic, non-poisonous gas that has a very low volatility (requires extremely high temperatures to ignite).
  • Reliability. When the power goes out you will still have heat if you have a propane fireplace. Your electric furnace wouldn’t be much help in a severe snow storm if trees fall on power lines and cause outages.
  • Environmentally friendly. Propane is not itself a greenhouse gas and is a low-carbon, clean-burning fuel. It does not harm the earth or ground water if a tank leaks.

How To Switch from Electric to Propane Heat

Convinced you’re ready to make the switch? Follow these steps to switch your electric heat over to propane as easily as possible.

  1. Call your HVAC company (Carolina Fuels). Your heating and air conditioning company can help you get started on your conversion. A technician can evaluate your system and determine the best course of action for switching.
  2. Schedule propane tank installation in Reidsville, NC. Your propane supplier will need to install a propane tank on your property. Your tank can be buried underground if you would prefer to conceal it and save space.
  3. Have a propane furnace installed. Your HVAC technician can recommend a new propane furnace for your home. If your electric heat was a forced air system you will already have ductwork in place, which would lower your installation cost.
  4. Convert other appliances or purchase new. Any appliance you wish to run on propane will either have to be converted if possible or replaced.

Carolina Fuels Can Help You Save Money by Switching to Propane

If you’re ready to save money and enjoy the other benefits of heating with propane, contact Carolina Fuels. Propane tank installation in Reidsville, NC, and furnace installation can be handled by one company this fall before the weather gets cold. Be prepared for winter like never before and plan to spend less on heating your home this year and in the years to come. Carolina Fuels offers free tank swap outs for new customers as well as other propane specials and discounts. Call (336) 623-9741 today and see how easy it is to switch.

Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Furnace Repair in EdenAs fall approaches and the weather begins to cool, you should start thinking about home maintenance. With winter coming soon there are some checks that need to be done and possibly some adjustments made to prepare your home for the season ahead. Not sure what to do? Follow this checklist to get your home ready for winter.

  • Furnace inspection and maintenance. It is wise to have your furnace inspected every year to make sure it is in good working order and will run efficiently. You can save money on energy costs with yearly maintenance and avoid unexpected furnace problems in cold weather.
  • Heating system installation Eden, NC. If your furnace is old or is found to be faulty upon inspection, it may be in your best interest to replace it. Your HVAC technician can give you a recommendation on its condition and the best course of action. It is much easier to have your furnace replaced in the fall if replacement is necessary.
  • Install a programmable thermostat. Save money this winter with a programmable thermostat. You can keep your home warmer when you’re home and cooler when you’re not at home to save energy and heating fuel.
  • Roof inspection/repair/replacement. Have a professional roofer check the condition of your roof and do any repairs that may be necessary to keep cold air and moisture from seeping in. If your roof needs to be replaced, it’s best to get it done in the fall before winter weather sets in.
  • Seal up cracks around windows and doors. If you notice cracks, seal them to keep cold air out and warm air in. Not sure how to handle this? Have a professional home insulator come and seal your home.
  • Clean out gutters. Before frost, snow, and ice begin to form, clean out your gutters so that the water has plenty of space to drain properly away from your home.
  • Divert water away from the house. Once your gutters are clean, consider extending your drain pipes further away from your home. This keeps water away from your foundation to prevent sinking or a flooded basement. Also, make sure your yard drains properly away from your home. Add a drainage system if necessary.
  • Turn off exterior faucets and drain hoses. Keep water from freezing in pipes and hoses and causing damage by turning off all faucets and draining all water from hoses and sprinkler systems.

Reliable Heating System Installation in Eden, NC

The most important part of fall home maintenance is preparing your furnace. If your furnace is old, not working correctly, or requires expensive repairs, it may be in your best interest to replace it. Carolina Fuels provides reliable heating system installation in Eden, NC. An experienced technician can evaluate your heating system and determine if a replacement is necessary or recommended. If you are in need of a replacement, Carolina Fuels offers specials and discounts to make it more affordable. Call (336) 623-9741 to schedule a furnace inspection today.

Winterizing Your Home this Fall

cozy houseColder weather is on the horizon. Is your home ready for winter? Freezing temperatures and snow can take their toll on your house, but you can avoid many household problems that can occur during winter by properly winterizing your home. Follow these steps and keep your eye out for propane specials in Greensboro, NC, that can save you money this year.

  1. Schedule furnace maintenance. The sooner the better on this one. HVAC companies tend to get busy performing furnace tune-ups in this time of year, so make your appointment now. Furnace maintenance ensures your system is in good shape and will run smoothly and efficiently throughout the winter.
  2. Have your propane or heating oil tank refilled. If your household heats with propane or heating oil, fall is a good time to make sure your tank is full. You definitely want to avoid running out on a cold winter night. Fall is a good time to find propane specials in Greensboro, NC, to help you save a little money on your heating fuel.
  3. Seal up cracks or leaks in your home. Insulating your home to keep the warm air in and the cold air out will go a long way in making sure your home stays comfortable, your furnace works efficiently, and you save money. Seal up cracks in the walls or around doors and windows. For best results you can have a professional fully inspect your home for air leaks and improve your insulation before it gets cold.
  4. Check the condition of your roof (or have it checked by a professional). If your roof has any weak spots or missing shingles, just one layer of snow can cause it to leak. Even a heavy frost might be all it takes for moisture to seep in. Your roof may also be letting cold air into your home and causing your furnace to work overtime. With experience, you can inspect and repair your own roof, but your safest bet is to have a professional roofer come out and take a look. They can make their recommendation for repair or replacement.

Berico Helps You Save Money with Propane Specials in Greensboro, NC

Looking for the best price on propane this fall? Hoping to save a little on your heating costs this year? Berico offers some promotional propane specials in Greensboro, NC, for new and existing customers that can make it more affordable to heat your home this fall and winter. New propane customers can enjoy their first 75 gallons of propane for free, as well as a free tank swap out. Sign up for automatic refills and get $20 off your next fill up. Refer a friend to Berico and get credits toward your services. And even without specials, Berico offers competitive prices on propane, heating oil, and other fuels as well as HVAC services like maintenance. Take advantage of these discounts and schedule a fall furnace tune-up and fuel delivery today. Call (336) 273-8663.

Does a Hot Summer Mean a Very Cold Winter?

furnace maintenance GreensboroThis summer has been a real scorcher. We’ve had temperatures in the upper 90s, not much rain, burned out grass, and even leaves falling from trees prematurely. But does a hot summer mean we’re in for a bitterly cold winter? You could say it’s one of those “old wives’ tales” that a hot summer proceeds a colder winter, but is there any actual science behind the theory? And what does that mean for HVAC companies performing heating repair in Greensboro, NC, in the upcoming season?

Research Does Not Support this Theory

Meteorologists have done extensive studies to test this theory, and have found that summer weather is in no way a predictor of winter weather. A hot summer could be followed up by a milder winter just as readily as a colder winter. Really, the only predictable aspect of weather is its unpredictability. The experts study the trends and attempt to predict the weather as accurately as possible, but as you’ve probably experienced on many occasion, they are not always right.

Be Prepared for Any Weather This Winter with Heating Repair in Greensboro, NC

Since we’ve determined that we can’t predict the weather for the upcoming winter, it’s best to be prepared for anything. Is your furnace ready to handle a cold winter? Do you have enough propane or heating oil to last you through the season? If you’re not sure of your answer to either of those questions, you need to call Berico right away.

Heating repair in Greensboro, NC, is best taken care of before the start of cold weather. Once the first chilly night hits and everyone starts turning their furnaces on, you may be one of many who find out that their furnace was not ready for winter. When that happens, your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) company will be busy responding to all the calls that come in and you may find yourself waiting in the cold for a technician to come out and repair your furnace.

Avoid a Major Mishap: Get your Propane or Oil Tank Refilled Before it Runs Out

The first touch of cold weather is also an unfortunate time to find out your propane or oil tank is empty. Not only will you have to wait for a refill, but you will be stuck paying whatever the current price is for heating fuel. And if your propane tank is completely emptied it is at risk for damage. Leaks can occur during refill and air and moisture can seep into the tank which may cause the inside of the tank to rust. If your oil tank runs dry it can cause damage to your furnace, such as failure to start up again once the oil is replenished.

Berico Can Help You Stay Warm this Winter, Whatever the Future Holds

We may not know if this winter will be frigid or mild, but making sure your heating system is ready well in advance is always best. Find out how you can be prepared for any weather and save money at the same time with a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement from Berico. A furnace tune-up and fuel discount is the winning combination. Call (336) 273-8663.

Saving Money on Your Heating Bills This Winter

fuel deliveryAre you looking for ways to lower your utility costs this winter? When the weather gets cold it is necessary to heat your home in some way. Whether you use propane, natural gas, electricity, heating oil, or another energy source for home heat, there are ways to reduce the cost. From furnace maintenance to propane deals in Burlington, NC, there are plenty of ways to save.

  1. Schedule a furnace tune up. You may have heard that your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system needs regular maintenance. This not only prevents your system from breaking down, but it improves the efficiency of your furnace. An efficient furnace uses less energy, whether that’s electricity, propane, heating oil, or gas. When less energy is used, you pay less on your utility bills.
  2. Improve your insulation. Do you have some rooms that are too cold or perhaps near doors and windows? Does it seem that your furnace is running constantly? You may have cracks or leaks that cold air can get through. Sealing up cracks around windows and doors can really reduce your heating costs. For further cost reduction, consider having a specialist come in and better insulate your home. You may pay the cost up front for this service, but the money you save will make it worth your while.
  3. Switch from electric heat to propane or heating oil. If you’re using electricity to heat your home, you may find that propane or heating oil is much more affordable. Switching is easy and new customers often receive promotional discounts. You can also find propane deals in Burlington, NC, quite easily at certain times of the year. Paying for propane or oil at one time means you avoid rising monthly bills.
  4. Install a new furnace. Is your furnace getting old? If it’s 10 or 15 years old you could definitely save energy by purchasing a new furnace. New heating systems are much more efficient than systems that were made even 7 years ago. A high-efficiency furnace uses significantly less electricity, propane, oil, or gas, which saves you money on home heating bills. The cost of a new furnace can be recouped in just a few years of lower energy bills.

Get Propane Deals in Burlington, NC, through Alamance Oil

If you’re looking to save money this winter, you should already be looking for propane deals in Burlington, NC, this fall. Being prepared early is another great way to save money on heating costs. Alamance Oil offers $20 off a propane delivery when you become an automatic fill customer for the first time. If you’re not an Alamance Oil Customer, switching means your first 75 gallons of propane is free, along with a free tank swap out. Check out other specials and find so many ways to save. Don’t pay too much for home heat this winter. Save through Alamance Oil. Call (336) 226-9371.

Best Types of Furnaces for Your Home

furnace repair BurlingtonAre you in the market for a new furnace? Maybe your old one is starting to fail, or perhaps you are building a new home and need to install a furnace for the first time. Whatever the reason you are considering a furnace installation in Burlington, NC, there are many different types to choose from. Finding the furnace that is best for you depends on a few different factors.

  • Do you have allergies? If dust is an allergy irritant for you, forced air systems with ductwork may exacerbate that issue. Try an air purification systems that can be added to help filter out allergens.
  • Does your home have ductwork? If there is already ductwork in place in your home, installing any type of forced air furnace is much easier and cost effective. Ductwork is necessary for furnaces and heat pumps. If it doesn’t have ductwork and you wish to avoid installing ducts, try a radiant heating option or a ductless mini-split system, though this type of system is rare in this region.
  • How cold does it get where you live? If you experience extremely cold temperatures, avoid a heat pump which does not perform well in those conditions. Consider a boiler or furnace that uses propane or oil. Propane and oil are said to offer a cozier heat that radiates longer.
  • Do you want the lowest possible heating costs? To keep heating costs as low as possible, propane, heating oil, and gas furnaces are very cost effective. Heat pumps are a very energy efficient and cost effective option as they transfer warmth more than they create it using heating fuel. However, when it does get very cold, a heat pump would need to be supplemented with another source of heat.
  • Do you want to save on installation costs? If you want to keep installation costs down, consider a ductless system such as a mini-split HVAC system. These are wall-mounted units that are installed in each room that connect to a very small outdoor unit. Installation is quick and not at all invasive. These systems are very visible and many homeowners opt for other options for aesthetic reasons.
  • Is it necessary to heat each room separately? If you want individualized heat and air conditioning for each room of your home, the ductless mini-split system is the best way to achieve this. Each room can be set to a different desired temperature. Each person can heat their room to their preference and parts of the home that don’t need to be heated can do without a unit. These systems do require more upkeep, such as monthly filter cleaning, so be sure to consult an HVAC professional to ensure you pick the right system for your home and climate.

 

Alamance Oil Offers Reliable, Affordable Furnace Installation in Burlington, NC

Trust your home comfort to Alamance Oil. Proper installation is key to the successful operation of the furnace you are getting now, as well as any future furnace you will have installed. Ductwork, vents, and the system itself must all be configured accurately. Once you choose the right heating system for your home, be sure to have your furnace installation in Burlington, NC, done by Alamance Oil. Call (336) 226-9371 for a free estimate today.

Why is My Furnace Leaking?

Picture of a Leaky FurnaceUh oh. There’s water puddled around your furnace. You’re thinking, “This can’t be good.” There are a few possible causes for a leaky furnace from normal wear and tear to faulty installation. Some of the causes can be easily repaired. Others may mean you need a new furnace. Before you worry too much or start Googling new furnace installation in Greensboro, NC, consider the possible reasons for the leak.

Common Causes of Furnace Leaks:

  • Condensation. If the water is from condensation, the first question to ask is whether you have a high-efficiency furnace (90% or higher AFUE—Annual Fuel Efficiency Ratio). The easiest way to tell is that HE furnaces typically have a white PVC pipe for ventilation. High-efficiency furnaces do produce condensation due to their cool exhaust feature. That moisture is typically drained out unless the drainage tube is blocked or leaking. A standard efficiency furnace (with a metal exhaust pipe) would only have condensation if the flue pipe is the wrong size due to faulty installation.
  • Furnace humidifier issues. If the internal furnace humidifier isn’t working properly it can cause condensation to form. Moisture inside your furnace can cause damage, so it’s important that this be repaired as soon as possible.
  • Internal drain clog. Has your air conditioner been running? Does it share a drain system with your furnace? If so, it could be condensation from your air conditioner. An internal drain blockage could cause water from your AC to back up into your furnace.
  • Faulty secondary heat exchanger. This is the big one, the problem that could result in whole furnace replacement. If the water is not due to condensation, it could be coming from the secondary heat exchanger. This is a significant part and it may not be worthwhile or possible to repair it without a furnace replacement in Greensboro, NC.

When to Call your HVAC Service for Repairs

If you see moisture around or under your furnace, the best thing to do is call a professional HVAC service. Whether the water is from condensation that is not properly draining or from a problem with an internal part, the situation should not be ignored. Letting a moisture problem go on too long can cause significant damage to your furnace or to your home. Excessive moisture in your home can lead to mold and mildew growth that can permanently damage your home and aggravate allergy sufferers. Too much moisture in your furnace can do irreparable damage to the system itself, resulting in the need for replacement.

Don’t Wait. Call Berico and Save Yourself from Expensive Repairs or Replacement

At the first sign of a problem, especially when excess water appears where it shouldn’t, it’s best to contact your heating and cooling company. Your expert technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace, locate the problem, and repair it if possible. If replacement is necessary, you won’t find a more reliable company to do your furnace installation in Greensboro, NC. Call Berico at (336) 273-8663.

The Best Time to Buy Propane in 2017

Photo of the amount of money you save with furnace repairDoes your household run on propane? Propane can fuel many appliances in your home from your furnace to your hot water heater to your clothing dryer. If you use propane, you will need your tank refilled from time to time. Wondering when is the best time of year to buy propane in Greensboro, NC? That depends on a few different factors:

  • The season you use the most propane. Do you use propane primarily to heat your home? If so, buying propane in the fall before the weather cools is a wise decision. If you use it all year for various purposes, then you may want to watch the prices and wait for the best time. You can also sign up for regular refills from your propane to supplier who can put you on a schedule for deliveries to ensure you never run out.
  • The size of your tank. Depending on the size of your tank and how much propane you use, you may need refills multiple times a year. Your propane supplier can help you find a delivery schedule that works for you, or swap out your tank for a bigger one.
  • Your budget. If getting the lowest price possible on propane is your top priority, one option is to watch the prices and order propane when you see the lowest price. Typically that will be during the summer or early fall when the demand for propane is low. If you wait until winter time when propane is in high demand, you will likely find that prices are higher. Be cautious with this method to be sure you don’t run out. A cold winter day is not a good time to suddenly find yourself with an empty tank. Then you will have to wait in the cold for a delivery, possibly pay emergency delivery fees, and accept whatever price you are offered. Regular refills from your supplier is a much less risky option.
  • How much propane you use. Depending on the amount of propane your household uses, the right time for a refill may not always be the same time each year. You may need it in the fall this year, and find that you don’t need another delivery until the following spring. If the winter is particularly cold, you may go through propane more quickly as your furnace battles the extreme temperatures.

Be Proactive and Buy Propane in Greensboro, NC, this Summer or Early Fall

It is always wise to be prepared. If you use the bulk of your propane for home heat in the winter, having your tank refilled in the summer or early fall gives you peace of mind. You can sit back and relax as the cool weather rolls in, knowing you are ready for whatever fall and winter brings. Late summer or early fall is also a great time to have your furnace tuned up and cleaned to make sure it will run efficiently when needed. A Berico Comfort and Protection Service Plan combines HVAC system maintenance and propane delivery at a discount. In one affordable package, you can keep your home comfortable all year. Call (336) 273-8663 to schedule furnace maintenance and purchase propane in Greensboro, NC.