Keep Energy Costs Down in Your Boston Home!

Can you believe it’s almost May? We’ve enjoyed pretty mild temperatures in Boston so far this spring, but summer and its scorching hot days will be here before you know it. If you’re like most Boston homeowners, you notice your pocketbook tends to get thinner as the temperatures rise and energy costs peak during June, July and August. However, there are some simple ways to keep your utility bills low and your bank account happy if you start preparing for the steamy summer months ahead of time. You’ll also be doing your part to help save the environment, as it is estimated that half of the energy used in your Boston home goes towards maintaining a comfortable temperature. Ready to save a few hundred dollars on your cooling costs this summer? Here are some tips and tricks to try.

Keep the cool air inside

If cool air is escaping your Boston home, you’re throwing money out the window – quite literally! Make sure your window-unit air conditioners fit tightly so that cold air cannot leak back outside. If you have central air, be sure to insulate any drafty windows.

Keep your filters clean

To keep your air conditioning performing at its peak, it is advised that you clean your air filters once per month. This usually just involves rinsing them with water and letting them air dry before putting them back.

Program your thermostat

If you have central air and a programmable thermostat, you can save up to 30% on your energy costs annually. Set the temperature a few degrees higher while you’re gone during the day and program the air conditioning to kick on just before you get home.

Avoid using the oven

Finally, the perfect excuse not to cook tonight! Turning on the oven heats up your entire Boston home, forcing your air conditioner to work harder than it needs to. It’s time to fire up the grill and do your cooking outdoors.

Turn off and unplug electronics

Even when your television or stereo in the off position, it’s still sucking power out of the outlet. Unplug your electronics when you’re not using them and you’ll be surprised at the savings on your energy bill.

We had quite a snowy winter this year and many of us are looking forward to shedding our layers and soaking up some vitamin D. Take these steps to lower your energy costs as the temperatures start rising and you’ll find that you have some extra cash to spend on all of the fun festivals and events going on in Boston this summer. If you’re planning to buy or sell a home this spring, please let me know! The Boston real estate market is sizzling this season and I’d love to help you through your home buying or home selling process.

Lucas Garafalo
Keller Williams Realty
(617) 861-3631
Lucas@LucasBostonHomes.com

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How to Help Boston Marathon Victims

Whether you were participating, cheering on a family member or friend, or just taking part in the festivities, each and every one of us in Boston was affected by the senseless tragedy that rattled our city at this year’s Boston Marathon. In the wake of this heart-wrenching catastrophe, Boston residents have shown an astounding amount of charity and compassion, banding together to form a closely-knit support system for victims and their loved ones. If you’ve been looking for a way to give back and help those who were directly impacted by the attacks at the Boston Marathon, read on for how you can get involved.

The One Fund Boston

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino have announced the formation of The One Fund Boston, Inc. The organization will be a central fund to receive much needed financial support for those most affected by the tragic events that unfolded on Monday at the Boston Marathon. 

The Richard Family Fund

Among the three individuals killed as a result of the Boston Marathon bombings was 8-year-old Martin Richard. The Richard Family Fund has been set up at Meetinghouse Bank to help his mother and sister who were injured. To donate to the Richard Family Fund, please call 617-298-2250 and ask for customer service.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army disaster services teams have set up mobile kitchens to provide sustenance to those in need, and officers trained in crisis counseling will be providing support to victims and first responders. The Salvation Army is seeking donations to help those impacted by the Boston Marathon bombings and for future emergency situations.

Send Photos, Videos or Tips to Officials

If you were at the Boston Marathon and have any photos or videos of Boylston Street, email them to boston@ic.fbi.gov. Additionally, anyone with information about the bombings is encouraged to call the Boston Police Department’s tip line at 1-800-494-TIPS or email boston@ic.fbi.gov.

In times of tragedy, communities have an unbelievable way of coming together to reestablish a sense of trust and security. Boston residents have put forth a tremendous amount of effort the past few days whether it’s been donating blood, donating money, or offering a bed in their home for stranded runners. Despite the tragic start to the week, the Boston real estatemarket is business as usual. I am available to all of my clients, so please contact me if you are in the area and need any assistance!

Lucas Garafalo
Keller Williams Realty
(617) 861-3631
Lucas@LucasBostonHomes.com

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