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Orange & Rockland Gas Conversion Rebate

Introduction

Orange & Rockland and Pike County Light & Power Co. are offering a $500 rebate to qualifying residential customers who convert their oil or propane heating system to natural gas by December 31, 2010.

You are eligible if you use oil or propane for your heating needs; or you're already using natural gas for water heating, clothes drying or cooking, but not for heating needs.

This $500 rebate offer does not apply to new residential construction. To get your $500 rebate, make the switch by the end of the year and turn in your completed appliction form. We'll send you a $500 check* within 45 days of receiving your application.

Call Vinny Galligan III at 845-783-5506 if you have questions

*Orange & Rockland reserves the right to either issue a check to the rebate applicant or apply rebate monies as a credit to the applicant's account if it is delinquent.

Submittal Process

When you contact us to discuss this offer, we'll send you a one-page rebate application form. When your heating system is installed, complete the application and send it back to us right away. Within 45 days of receipt of your completed application, we'll mail your $500 check.

The $500 rebate offer expires on December 31, 2010.

Questions and Answers

What are the benefits of using natural gas?
- Natural gas is a clean, efficient energy source.
- It's always there when you need it.
- There's no need for fuel deliveries and unsightly storage tanks.
- You pay only for the fuel you use after you use it.
- It's a plentiful and reliable North American resource, so prices are generally more stable than oil.

How much does it cost to convert my oil heating system to natural gas?
Each heating system is different, but depending on the size of the boiler and/or furnace, the piping requirements in your home or business, the efficiency of the boiler you select, contractor labor costs and other factors, a typical conversion project is likely to cost between $2,500 and $3,500.

What is the typical payback period for my investment?
With the $500 rebate and installation of a high-efficiency gas heating system, your payback period could be anywhere from 24-30 months. Your old oil heating system is probably inefficient. In fact, depending on its age, it's probably operating at an efficiency level that could be as low as 60%. In contrast, a new gas heating system can operate at an efficiency level that's as high as 92%. Therefore, it's not unheard of to achieve between 20–25% in energy savings when you install a high-efficiency gas heating system.

Does my meter have to be changed if I convert my heating system to natural gas?
As long as you have gas service and you're already using natural gas for water heating, clothes drying or cooking, we usually don't have to change a gas meter for the typical O&R or PLC&P customer.

Who's eligible for this $500 rebate offer?
If you're an O&R or PCL&P residential or small business customer and you're currently heating with oil, have had gas service to your home or business for at least one year, and are already using natural gas for water heating, clothes drying or cooking, you're eligible for this offer.

This offer seems too good to be true. What's the catch?
There is no catch and no gimmick. Simply put, O&R and PCL&P want you to convert to natural gas heat. Since you already have gas service and you're using it for some of your needs, you're a perfect candidate for a conversion project.

Have more questions
Call Vinny Galligan III at 845-783-5506 or use our convenient online form. Vinny will be glad to talk to you about the different heating systems available, discuss the benefits of using natural gas, give you tips on obtaining free estimates and answer any questions you may have. If necessary, he'll even schedule an appointment and come to your home or business.

Select a Right Contractor

When you convert to natural gas, you'll want equipment that is dependable, economical and long lasting. With O&R and PCL&P's reliable gas delivery system, plus a quality home heating appliance installed by a qualified contractor, you'll have the winning combination.

As manufacturers incorporate more technology into their processes, many top furnace and boiler brands are similar in overall performance. The one variable, therefore, is how well the system is installed. If a system is correctly sized, installed and maintained, it will perform at peak efficiency for many years.

Tips for Selecting a Right Contractor

  • • Get estimates from at least 3 contractors who have done an onsite audit of your home or business to assess your specific needs.

  • • weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows.

  • • Before final selection, get written proposals clearly describing work to be done, equipment price and labor costs.

  • • Ask contractors to do a heat loss analysis to determine the right equipment size.

  • • Ask about manufacturer and contractor warranties; know what's covered and for how long.

  • • Make sure estimates are all for the same things: same size system, same efficiency and same accessories, such as thermostats and wiring.
  • • Ask how long you have to cancel a contract and find out if there's a penalty for doing so.

  • • Ask for at least three references and check customers' satisfaction with the contractor's services.

  • • Find out if the contractor offers annual maintenance service. This is recommended.

  • • Make certain the contractor is insured and bonded. Verify workers' compensation and liability coverage.

  • • Other questions to ask: Is a permit required from your local government? Who will be supervising the work? Will the contractor clean up and remove your old equipment? What is the timeline for the work? Will you be without heat or hot water for any length of time?

  • • Find out if a contractor is affiliated with a manufacturer. You may want to select a contractor who is factory-trained in working with a particular brand of heating system.

  • • Lastly, get a written contract. Understand payment terms and financing options before the job begins. This is in the best interest of you and your contractor.