lake shawnee community conversion project, jefferson township NJ
As reported in The Jefferson Chronicle last month, Mayor Russell Felter noted the town is “working diligently” with NJNG to offer services in Jefferson. During a Chamber of Commerce dinner, he said the gas company would be coming to Lake Shawnee this year. “The goal is to reach up to Route 181 by Weldon Quarry,” he stated, adding that “approximately 2,600 to 2,800 homes are expected to convert to natural gas this area.” (Related Story: Mayor Felter Addresses the State of Jefferson)
Residents who dreaded installation costs of natural gas were pleased to find there are only minimal start-up charges, which include a $100 road opening permit fee and a $15 account opening fee. Monthly fees are $8.62 plus gas usage.
NJNG will install pipe up to 200 feet to the front of the house. If additional footage is needed or the location differs, there might be an additional fee of $20 per foot.
To dispel some rumors, the company consultant said there are no “per day” labor charges. Whether it takes NJNG one or three days to install, it is the same cost, he told residents.
Additionally, NJNG will ensure that any public utilities, such as water, are marked out prior to digging. However, he added, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure any non-public items are marked out (e.g. electric dog fences, septic or leech fields, sprinklers). Any blacktop torn up by installation will be repaired.
State of the Township report ; http://www.thejeffersonchronicle.com/mayor-felter-addresses-state-jefferson/
The town is working diligently with New Jersey Natural Gas to offer services in Jefferson. The gas company is coming to Lake Shawnee this year and the goal is to reach up to Route 181 by Weldon Quarry. Approximately 2,600 to 2,800 homes are expected to convert to natural gas in this area. On the Milton side, the township looks to install gas lines from White Rock to the high school, which should result in significant savings in heating costs.
Q&A: Converting from Oil to Natural Gas (Lake Shawnee)
Is there a difference in monthly utility costs?
According to the US Energy Information Administration, since 2002, the cost of Heating Oil has averaged 30% to 50% more than Natural Gas every year.
What fuel types are available in the area?
The majority of homes in this region use oil fired heating systems. This is due to the area’s proximity to the ports where oil barges deliver their loads and because oil was a cheaper option back when these houses were built. Natural Gas has not been offered in many parts of this region until now. The Lake Shawnee Community Conversion Project is scheduled to be completed in 2021, after which time they will repave the streets and that window to convert will close for a period of 5 years.
“The town is working diligently with New Jersey Natural Gas to offer services in Jefferson. The gas company is coming to Lake Shawnee this year and the goal is to reach up to Route 181 by Weldon Quarry. Approximately 2,600 to 2,800 homes are expected to convert to natural gas in this area. On the Milton side, the township looks to install gas lines from White Rock to the high school, which should result in significant savings in heating costs.” [State of the Township report ; http://www.thejeffersonchronicle.com/mayor-felter-addresses-state-jefferson/ ]
How is it Delivered and Stored?
Oil is delivered by truck where it is stored in an oil tank located on your property. Natural gas gets piped right into your house by NJNG. So making the switch requires having a gas main placed under your street and routed to a meter on your property.
How Much Will the Equipment Cost?
Gas-fired equipment typically costs less than oil-fired equipment depending on the specifications of the unit. Call Us at (973) 936-2017 for a FREE ESTIMATE. Also, a high-efficiency unit may be eligible for tax credits, rebates and/or financing options. (We have provided links below)
How Much Will the Hookup Cost?
Residents will benefit from minimal start-up charges, which include a $100 road opening permit fee and a $15 account opening fee. Monthly fees are $8.62 plus gas usage.There are two aspects to the connection process for gas: outside the house and inside. The utility company will run an underground pipe from the gas main to your house, where it will install a meter. Zip Air, or whichever contractor you choose to use, would then pipe the gas from the meter into your home and connect it to the heating unit.
What Other Expenses Are Involved?
Switching to gas may require you to line your chimney because the moisture in gas exhaust can damage the masonry. However, a liner may not be necessary with a high-efficiency gas system. You may also choose to remove your oil tank, costs vary depending whether it is located above or below ground.
Is Natural Gas Better for the Environment?
Natural gas has lower carbon emissions than oil which is better for the environment. However, if an Oil Fired System is properly maintained it will burn cleanly and efficiently. Zip Air provides annual Maintenance Services for all residential heating and cooling equipment. Give us a call to schedule a service and/or ask about our Maintenance contracts which can be found on our website.
How to choose a Contractor…
Selecting a qualified, reputable contractor who has an established business, that not only sells and installs the equipment but also provides 24 hour emergency service and offers maintenance contracts to keep your new equipment running efficiently. Confirm that your contractor is licensed, bonded and insured in New Jersey. Lastly, it is a good idea to get several estimates to compare from other local competitors.
Call us for a FREE ESTIMATE – We are happy to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. (973) 936-2017.
Are there any other benefits to switch?
Having Natural Gas allows for appliances such as a gas stoves, dryers, fireplaces, water heaters, grills, and generators. Also, natural gas heated homes are typically more appealing to homebuyers and may increase the resale value of your home.