Off the beaten track in Kenmore – Saving Money on Utility Bills

James Colver and his service truck
Photo by Victoria Rhoades

By Victoria Rhoades, ND

Allied Complete Furnace and AC Repair, owned and operated by James Colver, 206-604-0092, has been in operation for five years. Not only does Mr. Colver repair furnaces and air conditioning units, but he also can help you with saving money on your utility bills by the targeted use of newer and evolving technology.

With autumn coming soon, we are all considering how to save money on heating this winter, and Mr. Colver can help.

He first became interested in helping with the fundamental needs for heating, air conditioning, and hot water, when he was working in Africa while his wife was doing a residency.

He saw how simple changes could make for profound economic and quality of life results.  Hence, he has a huge interest in helping us here in the US, to reduce what’s called our ‘carbon footprint.’ 

That footprint reflects the energy consumption for individuals and families. The smaller the footprint, the less energy consumed – translating into not just reduced carbon emissions, but into very real cost savings with bills. Additionally, the more people who take advantage of newer technologies, the greater the overall energy consumption in the US – a savings for us all.

James Colver, right, and friend with a solar panel

Whether advising or installing on your household energy use, his top three priorities are reliability, efficiency, and simplicity.

These three priorities combine to reduce home service calls, repair costs, and decrease energy needs, and thus save on utility bills.  

Furthermore, Mr. Colver knows which systems allow for tax credits and PSE tax credits, realizing yet another savings.

Mr. Colver also evaluates systems when repairs are needed, and repairs systems as needed.  He looks to simple solutions, such as checking ductwork for leaks, or checking insulation. Many times, you can save money on bills by fixing simple things, rather than replacing a furnace that may actually still be in good operating condition.

If you are investigating newer technologies, consider calling him before making a final decision.

While technology is continually being perfected, there are several specific items that you may want to consider for your own home, including heat pumps, tankless water heaters, solar panels, and drain waste heat recovery systems. He is knowledgeable regarding energy efficiency of different types of products, and can help you make the right decision for you. He installs these systems at rates that are competitive with much larger companies.

What did I learn just from sitting with him for this interview? Well, our tankless hot water heater should really be serviced annually to keep it working well. Also, solar panels can (and do) work well in the Pacific Northwest, if you know what you are doing. He has them, and sells his excess energy back to the utility company, which I’ve heard of others doing.  More money in the bank!

On a personal note, Mr. Colver is married with two children, and lives in Kenmore.