Installing solar panels to generate electricity for your home is one way of moving towards conserving the planet’s resources. Solar power is not an option for every New Hampshire household, but don’t let that deter you from using energy more effectively. Reducing home energy consumption can reduce energy bills and may even help to save on NH home insurance costs.

·                 Replace lighting with energy efficient light fittings
·                 Buy a programmable thermostat so you can adjust your tempature when you are not home or sleeping.
·                 Clean your heating and cooling systems regularly for efficient operation.
·                 Wash clothes in cold water.
·                 Unplug appliances, phone chargers, and coffee makers that are not in use as they can waste 5% of your electricity.
·                 Use pressure cookers and slow cookers in preference to ovens and stove tops.
·                 Wear warm socks or put on a sweater to keep warm rather than switching on a heater to warm the whole room.
·                 Consider the Energy Star rating of any electrical appliance you are thinking of buying. A high number of Energy Stars on the label indicates that the device is energy efficient.

Some homeowners might want to consider using solar powered lighting in the garden. Exterior lights that are powered by their own solar panels operate independently of your home’s electrical installation, and solar powered security spotlights triggered by motion detectors can be an effective deterrent to intruders. Let our agency see if we can save you some money on your NH homeowners insurance.

The New Year is coming and many Americans are vowing to start saving in 2012! There are always ways to save, from clipping coupons to saving on your insurance premium. As your reliable NH insurance agency, we have a few tips to share about saving on your NH car insurance premium this year.

Here are 10 ways to save on your premium, starting now!

1.    Combine coverage with the same company. You need home, auto, and life insurance, so why not choose coverage with the same company? Bundling your policies will help you save on your premiums.

2.    Selecting the right car. Sports cars and luxury brands may look nice, but they are much more risky than just a low-profile vehicle. These risks are sure to raise your premium.

3.    Hold a clean driving record. If you are caught in fender-benders or large accidents, your premium will sky-rocket.

4.    Pay a higher deductible. If you can afford to pay a higher deductible, choose this option! The higher the deductible the lower the premium. Always compare the different deductibles to see if the saving is worth the higher deductible.

5.    Take advantage of discounts. The discounts are endless when it comes to auto insurance. Ask about good student, mature driver, safety, low-mileage and much more. Many companies now offer an advance shopping credit, where the effective date is 7 days or more in the future.

6.    Avoid paying monthly or instead choose to pay by EFT. Paying in monthly installments will tack on at least an extra $3-5 dollars a month. If possible, choose to pay every six months to a year. If you want to pay monthly, choose the EFT option, where the money comes out directly from your checking account each month. This will typically save you on the installment fees.

7.    Become a AAA member. Some agencies will give a discount to those who are AAA members or part of other professional organizations. Make sure you let your agent know of your memberships!

8.    Install safety features. Automatic seat belts, alarms, air bags and other safety features will help lower your premium.

9.    Shop around. You are not going to find the best deal by choosing the first big-name company you see on television. Independent Insurance agencies typically have 10-20 different companies that they use to quote your coverage.

10.    Keep up your credit score. Most companies now factor in your credit score when calculating your premium.

As you can see, there are many of ways to save on your NH car insurance. There is a discount for just about everyone! If you are planning to save for the New Year, it seems like a good idea to start with your NH auto insurance.

Enjoy your savings in 2012!!

Do you have an oil furnace? Do you have it serviced every year? It is getting cold outside which means it is time to use your heat again. If you have an oil furnace, you want to watch out for puff backs.

What is a puff back? Puff backs occur when an oil-burning furnace doesn't ignite when it should. Oil vapors build up in the ignition chamber, causing an explosion when the igniter finally triggers. The explosion blows soot and other debris through the furnace's exhaust system and into the heating system, which carries it into the house. If the furnace is connected to a forced air heating system, the ducts can carry the puff back to every room of the house with an open vent.

There are a few steps you can take to prevent puff backs:

·        Inspect and service your heating system yearly

·        Periodically look for oil leaks or soot in the furnace room

·        Check the flue vent connector for any debris

·        If you hear noises or see soot, call your heating company

Do you know if your NH Home Insurance covers puff backs? Call one of our NH Insurance experts at Benway-Johnston Insurance to find out and to get the right protection. Enjoy your warm house this winter knowing your are properly covered by Benway-Johnston Insurance in Derry NH.

Photo: Danilo Rizzuti's