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Get informed about propane heat with this helpful guide! Here, you will learn everything you need to know before selecting the right kind of propane heater for your needs.

Looking for advice on how to maintain a propane generator? We've got you covered! Read our five essential tips here and get your generator up and running!

Supporting local non-profit organizations that care for and protect animal welfare is something that is near and dear to the hearts of Combined Energy Services and its employees. We are grateful once again to be able to make a heating fuel donation in the amount of $5,000 to the Sullivan County SPCA.

Is your water heater more than 10 years old? Are you experiencing leaks or is the water not getting up to temperature? It may be time for a new water heater!

Let's dispel some auto delivery myths. We'll start with what autmoatic delivery entails. When you sign up for autmatic delivery, Combined Energy Services monitors your fuel consumption. We use a three-point system to determine when you need fuel. Contrary to what you may have been told, his isn’t something arbitrary.

Ever thought about converting your oil furnace to propane? It's possible and might just save you a ton of money in the first year of installation.

Combined Energy Services support several organizations throughout the Tri-State area that care for and protect animals. This year we are thankful to be able to increase our heating oil donation to the Pike County Humane Society to $5,000.

Combined Energy Services loves animals and we suppport a variety of animal rescue shelters throughout the Tri-State area. Pets Alive, located in Middletown, NY, serves both domestic and farm animals.

The Allyson Whitney Foundation held its first ever “Over the Rainbow” Gala on Saturday, October 1, 2022. AWF supports young adults battling cancer with “Life Interrupted Grants™”, distributing “HOPE Comfort Bags to oncology patients and funding MD Anderson’s Small Cell Cancer research.

Combined Energy Services makes it's 3rd van donation to PCHS.

Today, Catskills Hatzalah is a renowned Volunteer Ambulance Service that boasts lightning-quick response times, state-of-the-art dispatching technology and a wide network of trained members who are available to respond to medical emergencies throughout upstate New York.

When choosing a propane water heater, there are several factors to consider. Read on to learn more about these important considerations!

A propane generator is an important tool for emergency preparedness. But there are some things you should know about them before using one.

Everything you need to manage your CES account in one place - the CES Smartphone App. Available for the iPhone and Android phones the app is also connect to our website portal.

Life is chaotic, and your heating fuel levels are the last thing you need to be worrying about. Thankfully, Combined Energy Services has your back with our automatic  delivery service. 

A propane fireplace is an excellent choice if you're looking for a more efficient way to heat your home. Learn about these fireplaces and their benefits!

With rural and suburban living on the rise due to high housing prices and easier remote work, real estate agents have a great opportunity to educate their clients about a feature that’s more common outside of cities: propane.

Maintaining your heating system is something that is routinely forgotten. That is until something goes wrong. Get a head of the game with a heating system service contract from Combined Energy Services.

Buried oil tanks are an extreme environmental liability and can hold up the sale of your home, worse yet if it leaks which can cost tens of thousands to clean the soil and most homeowner's insurance won't cover the costs.

Levelized billing or budget billing is the process whereby your estimated energy bill is divided over the course of 12 months. This give you a set amount to pay each month.

Colorado State University has just updated it’s 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season forecast and is predicting an above average season. According to The Weather Channel, CSU is predicting 19 named storms including 9 hurricanes with 4 being a Category 3 or higher.

Spring is in the air. With the snow gone, many are ready to get outside and start working on their yards. Whoa! Where did that big white propane tank come from?

The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The CLCPA, enacted in 2019, is a comprehensive response to the climate change that mandates carbon emissions reductions from all sectors of New York's economy by 40% by 2030, and 85% by 2050. The NY State Senate Bill S6599 has set forth provisions that will significantly impact the residents of the State.

Hot Dawg Heaters by Modine offer heating solutions for garage, workspace and outbuildings. Available in 6 different models sizes, ranging from 30,000 - 125,000 BTUs.

Low profile and lightweight, Hot Dawg Heaters typically hang from the ceiling freeing up precious floor space in your garage or workshop. These heaters have safety built in with 100% shut-off with continuous retry to allow for safe ignitions in the event the unit doesn't light of the first try.

Interested in finding out how a Hot Dawg heater can improve your garage or workshop? Give us a call at 800-874-1975.

Power outages can occur during any season and can range from being a simple inconvenience to, in some cases, a lifethreatening situation. Almost any type of weather-related event can cause a power outage, ranging from snow and ice storms to thunderstorms, hurricanes, and extreme heat.

Did you know that New York State is going to force you to start converting to electric heat in 2030? Are you confident that the electric system in your neighborhood is good enough to get you through a winter storm? What happens when your gas furnace needs replacement and you are forced to switch to electric? Questions that need to be answered before the you're left without a choice.

Whether you’re a first-time user or seasoned veteran, you can always learn more about home heating oil and your oil delivery options.

Tighten supply, slowed production, and natural disasters have all contributed to higher pricing throughout the US.

It’s the season of being thankful and Combined Energy Services is thankful for all the areas’ animal shelters that care for pets that find themselves homeless. We are happy to be able to support a few that are near to our local offices.

You know that Combined Energy Services LOVES animals of all kinds. We support a variety of shelters & rescues across our service area. Last year CES decided to help Pets Alive in Orange County in a big way.

Ten Mile River Scout Camp was the proud recipient of Combined Energy Service's 30th vehicle donation in the past 9 years.

For the 6th year in a row, Combined Energy Services donates to the Pike County Humane Society. CES's donation of heating oil helps keep pets at the shelter warm throughout the winter.

There are a lot of propane companies out there. Big international conglomerates and small single truck Mom & Pop companies serve communities all over the country, but what makes a good propane supplier for you?

    Living here in the Northeast, you can’t escape running a furnace in the winter. With the exception of electric heat, most rural area residents use either propane gas or home heating oil to run their heating equipment. Burning any type of fuel requires maintenance on the dwelling owner.

There are a lot of things that you can do to your home to add both beauty and value. From painting your front door to adding landscaping.

    Combined Energy Services offers both ethanol free gasoline and off-road diesel at our Monticello gas station.

Now is time to get ready for winter and you can depend on propane to be there when you need it most. Did you know that propane appliances can save you money? Find out how!

Camp fires are a great addition to your home on a spring or summer evening… There is nothing better than sitting around the fire, enjoying a warm evening, socializing with family and friends. Everyone loves a fire but not everyone loves dealing with the effects of wood. From gathering wood, dealing with smoke constantly blowing in your face and cleaning ashes can be a pain! With a propane outdoor firepit / camp fire, these inconveniences are a thing of the past.

The Monticello Rotary Club is down to it's last $15,000 for the rebuilding of the pavilion at DeHoyos Park. Donations are requested to finish up the project.

Knowing how to safely operate your propane gas grill this summer is important. Take some tips from the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association.

CES recycles old propane BBQ cylinders. Did you know more than being illegal to throw your old propane cylinder into the garbage, more importantly someone working on that refuse collection truck, a transfer station or landfill could be injured or killed by unknowingly getting one mixed in with your throw-aways.  

Combined Energy Services offers two different pre-buy options for your home's heating fuels. These plans allow you to purchase your home's heating fuel at a fixed price that will not go up during the heating season.*

Gallon for gallon propane provides you with more hot water quicker than electric water heaters.

Combined Energy Services has a variety of payments plans to help ease the worry of high winter heating bills

It’s important to know your responsibilities if you choose to own a propane tank

Prepare for Every Possibility!

Before, during, and after a storm, there are a few key things to consider to keep your family and your home as safe as possible.

Combined Energy Services delivers more than just High Quality Home Heating Oil. We deliver piece of mind! As one of the most progressive and largest independent fuel suppliers in the region, we strive to be truly a full-service home heating & energy company.

A bit of what makes CES different includes:

CES has extended office hours to better serve our customers: Mon – Fri: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.  Sat: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

For a free no obligation quote, give us a call at 800-874-1975 or complete the form below and one of our sales professionals will reach out. Home heating oil sales are only available in New York and Pennsylvania.

How being home more often affects your energy consumption

Brought to you by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) here are some tips to keep you safe around outdoor propane heaters.

These safe, effective heaters are a great way to warm up a patio or outdoor space. Just follow these simple rules to keep you and your guests safe.

1. SMELL GAS? DON’T LIGHT IT.
Know propane’s distinct odor, and always follow manufacturer instructions for connecting a cylinder and lighting a heater.
2. NEVER USE OUTDOOR PROPANE HEATERS INDOORS.
While safe for outdoor use, these types of heaters should never be used in enclosed spaces.
3. ALWAYS SHUT A HEATER OFF BEFORE MOVING IT.
Relocating a heater while it’s in use can create a potentially unsafe situation.
4. KEEP HEATERS AWAY FROM FOOT TRAFFIC AND FIVE FEET FROM EXITS.
Lower the chances of a heater getting knocked over while in use.
5. NEVER USE HEATERS NEAR OTHER FLAMMABLES.
Paper, plastics, and other fuel sources are all things to avoid.
6. NEVER STORE PROPANE CYLINDERS INDOORS.
Store propane cylinders upright, on a level surface, in an area with plenty of ventilation.

For the full brochure, click here.

Statements & Invoices Now Available Through the Online Portal

Our online portal just received another update – Statements/Invoices will begin appearing online! That means moving forward you will begin to see these items available for download and print on our online portal via our CES website.

Where to find these items? Go to myaccount.combinedenergyservices.com. If you are already registered, please login. If not, please register your account.

To register first, make sure that we have an email account associated with your account. This is a key part to registering for the online portal. If you do not have an email on your account, you can call, and we will add one or you can complete the form at the bottom. You will also need your account number and the street number of the delivery address. Then click on register and complete the process.

Once logged into the summary page, you will see a drop down on the top left called My Account. Hover over the downward arrow and towards the middle you will see a link for My Documents. Click on this. If there are documents available, you will be able to see the date, type, amount and click on view to see the bill. They can be downloaded and printed directly from the screen.

No bills available? It means that there haven’t been any uploaded to your account yet. Over time, your account history will begin to build. Unfortunately, this is option is not available through the CES app.

Have questions, please give us a call, or send an email to info@combinedenergyservices.com.

There's a saying that not everything that glitters is gold. That saying can be applied to home energy buying clubs. They may look like a best buy but when the going gets tough, they may not be able to deliver.

Seasons are changing and so should your air filters

Virtual Event – August 2020

Another Combined Energy Services van has found a new life helping seniors at the Pike County Area Agency on Aging (pikeaaa.org). With almost 30 serviceable vehicles donated to local non-profit agencies over the last 8 years, CES is pleased to be able to give back to the communities we serve.

Thinking of installing a generator? Don’t wait too long!

Nothing can replicate the warmth and comfort of a fireplace or stove. Coming inside after a long day of working or playing in the cold weather and sitting in front of the fire with a beverage of choice can be priceless. And then you think about the mess…wood chips and back all over the carpet, soot, ash on your favorite collectibles, the shrieking of the smoke alarms when you "accidentally" forget to open the damper.

Propane gas or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a convenient, readily accessible energy product that is available for your home or business. It is a powerhouse for all the comforts and necessities you need to operate, and it does its workload effectively and efficiently.

Delivery & Service Safety

CES Donates Van to Pets Alive in Middletown, New York

How working from home affects your energy consumption

CES Donates All Heating Propane to Pets Alive in Middletown, New York

Former Wechsler Pool Service truck to become mobile wood shop

Convert from Home Heating Oil to Propane –

You gain more than just efficiency, you gain Space!

We’ve helped hundreds, if not thousands, of area residents make the switch from home heating oil to clean energy efficient propane gas.

Many times, a switch in heating fuels comes when a furnace or boiler breaks down or is getting towards the end of its functional life. Other times, it’s when there’s an issue with the fuel tanks either age or leaking.

If you have home heating oil tanks in your home, do you realize how much space they take? Two 275-gallon tanks alongside each other consume a whopping 44″ X 60 X 54″. If they are set up end to end, you’re looking at approximately 44″ X 120+" X 27″!

No one has ever said "I have enough storage in my garage or basement". Gaining all this space back means there might be room for that motorcycle or craft room.

While no one really likes the thought of replacing their heating system, let alone changing fuel type. The pros at Combined Energy Services make the process as easy as possible. From scoping out a place to set a propane tank to sizing and installing a new heating system, the procedure is seamless. Give us a call today at 800-874-1975 or complete the form below and we’ll get you started on gaining back all the useful space.

 If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com

Act quick – these rebates won’t last!

New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA) has continued the conversion-replacement rebate program for 2020, using PERC funds to support retention and growth of safe, efficient propane appliances in New York.

The available rebates for New York State residents are:

• Water Heater​​
  $250 for converting from another fuel
  $100 for replacing an existing propane unit
• Boiler/Furnace
  $350 for converting from another fuel
  $200 for replacing an existing propane unit
• Note: Maximum combined rebate is $450

In order to access these funds, the propane customer must submit their documentation through a propane marketer (CES). The rebate form is no longer available. This form needs to be completed and returned to Combined Energy Services for processing. All required documentation must accompany the form. Customers of Combined Energy Services receive a copy of all of the required paperwork including a copy of their leak test (typically a yellow copy) along with their equipment bill. The safety inspection is provided free of charge if you’re a customer of Combined Energy Services and purchase their propane through CES. Rebate checks are issued directly from the New York Propane Gas Association to the customer.

Changing your furnace or water heater to clean, high efficiency propane gas with Combined Energy Services before 09/30/2020 and you will get…

• Rebate*
• Free oil tank removal 
• Free propane tank install
• Free underground gas line up to 50 ft with pressure regulators
• Free leak / safety check**

Whether’s it’s home heating fuel or service – you can count on us!

I’m on auto pay! You are actually receiving a copy of your invoice, not another bill.

Customers that are on auto pay, either with a credit card or ACH, still receive a copy of the invoice for their records. That invoice is either mailed or emailed after the delivery AND payment has been made.

Please look in 3 places:

1. On the top right side of the invoice. The account balance due will say $0.00 if your automatic payment was processed;
2. Also in the top right, next to INVOICE it will begin to say -COPY. We have recently had our software company add "copy" to the statement.
3. On the bottom left side of the invoice. It will read "Please do not remit payment. The amount due for this delivery/service will be automatically deducted from the Checking/Savings or Credit Card that you have listed with us."

If something didn’t process correctly, you will receive a call from one of our customer service representatives and the invoice will show an account balance due.

Interested in becoming an auto pay customer, call our office at 800-874-1975. If you wish to use a bank account (checking/savings) download the form here, complete the form and return via the method on the form.

 If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

How the pandemic affects your energy consumption

Lower prices for BBQ Tank Refills – Prices dropped even lower!

Recent world events are giving us an opportunity to purchase the lowest capped pricing on home heating oil in YEARS! Call today and purchase your next heating searson’s capped price home heating fuel & sign up for budget billing. 12 equal payments – no surprises!

We’ve been hearing about all kinds of offers from competing propane gas or heating oil companies that sound just too good to be true. Most are claiming below going market rates for a fixed term, such as a year or two. When these "introductory" rates expire you are stuck with their "market rate".

Budget Billing Levelizes Heating Bills

Enjoy an Early Bird Discount for Furnace/Boiler Service

Well that depends. Lately, we’ve been seeing quite a few bad tanks come in for refill. What makes a tank bad or unsafe for refill? A few things.

What you need to know

Propane is a GREAT choice for your generator, but it can do so much more! 

Propane can be your fuel source for heat, cook your food, warm up your water and light up your fireplace. If you already have a propane tank in your yard for a generator, why not take advantage of everything it can do.

You can use propane for:

• Furnaces & Boilers – you can even convert an oil unit to propane!
• Fireplaces & Stoves – loose the mess that wood creates and enjoy the efficiency of gas.
• Water Heaters – on-demand tankless and tank styles water heaters work in most situations.
• Space Heaters – direct vent, vent free and garage heaters are all available.
• Pool Heaters – enjoy your swimming pool longer with a propane heater.
• Firepits – there is nothing like sitting around a firepit after a long day of work! No ash, no mess.

So when it comes time to replace an appliance, add some energy efficiency to your home, or some simple beauty in a log-set or fireplace – don’t overlook the propane that’s already at your home for your generator. Propane can do that!

Call 800-874-1975 or complete the form below for a FREE quote.

 If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

CES offered an incentive to sign up for automatic delivery by giving away a snowblower to one random winner. The winner was selected from Combined Energy Services automatic delivery customers on Wednesday, January 22, and the lucky customer was Ken & Alissa Geringer of Rock Hill.

Is it time to retire your heating oil system?

How often do you use your wood burning fireplace?  All the time as supplemental heat or rarely because of the mess and hassle? Maybe you’re somewhere in between. What if you could use it as often as you wanted for both supplemental heat AND atmosphere but not have to deal with wood? Intrigued? Read on!

Combined Energy Services loves pets and the people who help them! That’s why the Pike County Humane Society was the recipient of a $2,000 fuel oil donation. Chris Roberts (left) and Dan Driscoll (right) presented Barry Heim, executive director PCHS, a symbolic check for fuel oil that the shelter uses to heat their buildings.

Who wants the unnecessary hassle of constantly checking gauges and scheduling deliveries before running out of gas? Why risk losing heat or hot water when you can avoid it? Sign up for automatic deliveries and let CES worry about the fuel level in your tanks.

Knowing the neighborhood business community is part of being a local family-owned business and helping groups that help animals is meaningful to Combined Energy Services.  That’s why for over 6 years CES has donated to the Sullivan County SPCA. This year’s $4,000 fuel donation will warm both hearts and paws during this holiday season. Pictured are Ariana holding one of their available puppies and shelter manager Debbie cuddling one of her adopted pups.

 The Sullivan County SPCA is a local non for profit organization which is not affiliated with any national or governmental organizations. The mission of the shelter is to rescue and find forever homes for abandoned dogs and cats. Please keep the Sullivan County SPCA in mind during this season of giving!"  They are currently in the process of fund-raising to help build new dog kennels. Check out their website: http://www.sullivanspca.org/ and please make a donation.

 If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Tank Monitors for Propane & Fuel Oil

Yes, but…

Frost Valley YMCA was delighted to receive an in-kind donation of a pre-owned box truck from Combined Energy Services (CES) in Monticello. For the past 15 years, CES has been donating vehicles they are retiring from their fleet to local non-profit organizations.

What to know when switching propane companies

Switching propane companies shouldn’t be difficult. A couple of phone calls, schedule an appointment and voilà, new propane company! Unfortunately, the big internationally corporate giants don’t play by the same rules as your local, family owned propane suppliers. The big guys make up the rules as they go along.

One of the oldest tricks in the book: A customer calls propane company 1 to let them know they are going to discontinue service. They are switching to propane company 2. Company 1 – a super big greedy international propane corporation – decides to FILL YOUR TANK the day you call to say, "please stop deliveries". They say you didn’t give enough notice, the delivery order was already dispatched, big pump out fee, etc. The easiest way to prevent this is to mark the tank with a big sign and take photos as proof in-case they filled it anyway.

Many consumers stay with their current propane supplier simply out of the ‘unknowns’ with how-to change regardless of how much that company may be overcharging or how bad their service has become.

We’ve also seen where some of the big Wall Street owned national propane corporations have scare tactics and hidden fees they want to charge if a customer attempts to change providers. If you’re looking to possibly change companies – here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Is changing to Combined Energy Services a simple process?

A: Yes. It all starts with a call to our customer service reps who may be able to set it all up on the phone or we can have a field customer service / sales rep stop by your property for a no-obligation consultation. Very often it’s easier to have a rep look to see what you currently have, what we can do and any recommended changes. We make it all very simple and painless!

Q: My current tank belongs to another supplier. Does CES provide loaned tanks or do I have to buy one?

A: Yes! We have tanks of every size and even offer a variety of colors to choose from. No, we do not sell tanks. Find out why we prefer to lease tanks by reading this article.

Q:  I have a buried propane tank owned by another supplier; can I still change to CES?

A: Certainly! We lease buried propane tanks (500 & 1000 gal common sizes) for $1 per year when used for central heating. We swap out your existing tank from another supplier at no cost to you. CES has our own fleet of excavation equipment and your new tank will be protected from corrosion with new sacrificial magnesium anode bags as required by code.

Q: What does it cost to change to CES?

A: Nothing. We install our loaned tank at no cost and typically provide the pressure regulator on the tank and any outside connections.  If you’re heating with propane, we often can install the tank up to 100 feet from your home at no cost using buried plastic propane piping that will never deteriorate, the same that’s used for natural propane.

Q: Do I need to wait until my propane tank is empty before changing to CES?

A: Normally no. Depending on the jurisdiction we’re able to pump your propane over from the existing tank into our newly installed one. Some of propane companies have a "cancellation fee" or "tank pump out fee" for any propane remaining in your old tank so it’s best to consult with one of our sales professionals to see how best we can assist you. The one thing we’ve learned is make sure you put a big sign inside the tank lid of your old tank if you don’t want a refill since it’s a common trick for the super-big nationwide companies to immediately FILL YOUR TANK the day you call to say stop deliveries. It’s often a tactic to keep you as a customer by adding expense to the switch. If you’re making a move – put a sign under the lid and even take a photo of it. This way if they come and fill it, you don’t have to pay for the propane and they then must remove a full tank.

Q: Does CES have repair service for my propane burning appliances & heating system and are they available after hours?

A: Absolutely! Our service staff is available 24/7 so any time you have a problem we’re just a phone call away any time night or day!

Q: How can I be sure you’re not just like the other companies and I’m going to hate you as well?

A: This is the great part about dealing with a local, family owned & operated company. We’ve been servicing propane customers in the region since 1968 and have thousands of satisfied, long time customers. To read some of what our customers have to say -click HERE.

To learn more about becoming a CES customer, to find out what we offer, pricing plans and what makes us different from all the competition, feel free to give us a call at 800-874-1975 or complete the form below.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

As you know, winter weather can be a major inconvenience to anyone driving or working outside.  In many situations the snow, ice, and cold temperatures make it nearly impossible to get around. Our delivery drivers work, sometimes 24/7, outside and need access to fuel tanks in order to make necessary deliveries.

This coming weekend is suppose to bring the first blast of temperatures in the 20’s to our service areas. There are a ton of construction projects in the works that cold temperatures could really put a damper on. From pouring concrete to finishing interiors, cold weather does its job of slowing things down.

Let’s start with what automatic delivery entails. When you sign up for automatic delivery, Combined Energy Services monitors your fuel consumption. We use a three-point system to determine when you need fuel. This isn’t something arbitrary. We don’t just stop by when we’re in the neighborhood or wait until fuel prices are the highest, hoping that you’ll be empty. A lot of planning goes into automatically scheduling your delivery.

Instead of a pot of gold, you’ve got service from CES!

You might already know that Combined Energy Services offers competitive pricing on propane and home heating fuel, but did you know that we also offer amazing 24/7 HVAC services to our customers?

By choosing Combined Energy Services for your HVAC services, you get:

• Quick response times
• Professional, experienced technicians
• Comprehensive recommendations for your home’s requirements
• Fixed price quotes for all work; no hidden fees
• Service Contracts for both Propane & Fuel Oilsystems

Free estimates are available, energy consumption analysis are performed and heat loss design plans performed on every installation to make sure your system operates at peak efficiency for heating and / or cooling applications.

Find out more by visiting our HVAC Services page.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Selecting a propane company comes down to some very personal ideas. Is price the only deciding factor? Do you need services? Examine everything the company has to offer before making your choice.

Wait, you’re trying to tell me that propane is more efficient than fuel oil? How is that even possible? Well let’s do the math!

If you’re talking straight Btu’s (British Thermal Units), you’re right, fuel oil has about 50% more Btu’s than propane.

1 Gallon* – Fuel Oil = 138,000 Btu

1 Gallon* – Propane = 91,333 Btu

If this was the only story, the win would go to fuel oil. Fortunately for propane, it’s not. If you speak with any heating system service tech, they’ll tell you the best efficiency you can get out of an oil-fired furnace is about 85% and that’s on a good day. Propane boilers can achieve efficiencies of up to 98%.

Propane boilers are typically less expensive to maintain and replace than oil fired boilers. Their cleaner burning characteristics also means that you don’t need a designated flue to exhaust fumes and rarely must worry about "puffbacks" if something happens when the boiler doesn’t ignite correctly.

Another clear advantage for propane is that you can cook with it. Ask anyone who does a lot of cooking and they’ll pick gas every time over any other fuel source. Propane can also be supplied from the same storage tank used for cooking, heating, water heating, clothes drying, swimming pool heating, fireplaces, etc.

Another issue with fuel oil is the tank. Many homeowners are finding out that their insurance companies are requiring the removal of tanks from the ground. This leaves you with few options of where to put the fuel oil tank. It can go in the basement, garage or outside but should that tank leak, you’ll still have an environmental nightmare! This is not the case with propane.

So, are you thinking about switching to propane? Time to get that environmental ticking time bomb out of the ground? CES will remove your fuel oil tank FREE when you convert to gas.

Tired of messing with an old, unreliable, service intensive and dirty fuel oil burner in your heating system? One easy solution is the installation of the Carlin Gas Conversion Burner that can be installed in almost any oil-fired boiler, furnace or water heater.

CES OFFERS:

• FREE Removal of your underground oil tank (up to a $7,500 value) when you switch from fuel oil to propane gas with CES.
• To convert to propane gas heating, CES will provide a free estimate or you can use another contractor.
• Want to stay with fuel oil?  No worries, we offer great low prices for above ground tank replacements.

TERMS:

• Credit approval required
• Must be CES Customer – Must purchase propane / fuel oil from CES
• 5-year agreement required
• Valid for homeowners (renters not eligible)
• Valid for year-round users (seasonal users not eligible)

*U.S. Energy Information Administration (https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/index.php?page=about_btu)

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Being a local family-owned business means that you know the businesses you support. Helping organizations that help animals is meaningful to Combined Energy Services. Pictured are PCHS Executive Director Barry Heim, Marla Donald & Paul Checkur from CES along with Andrew O’Brien. Barry brought along a few furry friends to supervise the handing over of the keys! 

What’s a company to do when you’ve tried every method known to find CDL drivers, but no one shows up? If you’re Combined Energy Services, you train your own drivers.

On Tuesday, July 2, 2019 Combined Energy Services held an info session for individuals who might be interested in becoming CDL drivers. Over 40 people signed up for the info session and the attendees were given the low down on our program.

"You need to invest in your permit and CDL physical," said Mike Taylor, manager of CES. "Once you’ve taken care of that, you would schedule an interview and if selected, we’ll get you hooked up with our trainer."

CES is offering their trainer, their truck and their fuel at your convenience, all in the hopes of gaining some full or part time drivers. Evening and weekend training are available because CES understands that some people might already work and can’t take the time off, which a typical CDL school would require.

What’s the catch? Work for the company for 3 days per month for 9 months. You pick the days. That’s 24 hours per month. If decide to leave, which they hope you won’t, there is a fee that would be required to compensate CES for their time and investment.

It seems that the hazmat endorsement is the real problem in finding new drivers. "People are afraid of the hazmat portion of the CDL", quips Taylor. "A lot of the questions are common sense, and truly don’t apply to the energy business."

Russell Reeves, deputy county clerk, along with a representative (Tina) from DMV, spoke to the group about the requirements for obtaining the CDL permit. Tina, reminded everyone to have all of the correct documents to make the process go smoother. There are significant changes coming to the CDL license next October that will impact the hauling industry. The group was encouraged that if they want to make this move to do it sooner rather than later.

Combined Energy Services is unique in that it offers year round employment, something many fuel service companies don’t.  They are busy with fuel deliveries in the summer with influx of seasonal customers in the Catskills. This along with their three other businesses – Tri-State Carbonation Service, Wechsler Pool & Supply and All Gas – there are always deliveries to be made.

Only time will tell if any of the participants take CES up on their offer. "We have a great group of employees," mentioned Taylor, "and we’re looking to add to our team."

For more information on our CDL program, click here.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

The 2019 Allyson Whitney Run for Love 5k is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser, and this year it is the PEACE LOVE RUN even honoring the roots of our community with the Woodstock 50^th celebration. Combined Energy Services is proud to have donated $5,000 to their cause!

Clean, Convenient Fuel for your backyard get-a-way: PROPANE!

Propane is for more than heat and hot water. Propane can fuel a variety of outdoor entertainment appliances. From fireplaces to firepits and outdoor kitchens, propane is the fuel for everyone.

Combined Energy Services donated a GMC 7500 to 10 Mile River Scout Camp today. Mike Taylor hands the keys over to TMR Ranger Lou Farragher. The camp is going to turn it into a dump truck. "CES is happy to help such a great local non-profit such as TMR," Taylor said. " Tens of thousands of scouts over the last 90+ years have created life long memories at the camp," he continued. 

The CES App was already great for mobile account management. We just added another convenient process that you can do from your phone: Order home heating oil or kerosene. If you are a will call customer (meaning you call CES when your tank reading is at 30% tank), you can now process that order on our mobile app without calling the office.

Log into your CES account on your Apple or android phone. Don’t have the app? Get it here:

Apple products: click here   

You will immediately see the option in the bottom right corner to Order Fuel. Click on the link. If you have more than one account​, you will see several list on the first screen. Otherwise, click on the opposing arrows in the top right and select the tank or account.

On the next screen verify that this is the correct account and click on Order. In the event that you’ve already placed an order or have a payment pending, you will get a pop up that asks if this is a new order or if you would like to make a payment. Select the appropriate response for your situation and continue to the next screen.

Once on this screen you can fill the tank or select the number of gallons you would like to order by sliding the fill tank button to the left. You can then either type the number of gallons in the box or use the slide bar to adjust your quantity. Please remember there are fees associated with short fills. Visit here to review charges.

When you are satisfied with the quantity of fuel you are ordering click in the top right on Next. A pop up box will appear. If you want to proceed with your order, select Yes. Otherwise return to the previous screen by selecting No.

At this point you select how you would like to pay for your order. There are two options: Credit/Debit Card or eCheck. Complete the required information and press Continue on the bottom of the page. You will then receive a confirmation of your order if everything went through or you will be propmpted to return to the previous screen and re-enter your payment information.

CES is making ordering your next delivery of fuel easier. Whether you are looking for the convenience associated with a few clicks and swipes or if you would prefer to call and speak with one of our Customer Services Reps, we’ve got you covered. Don’t forget if you want a really simple option, sign up for automatic delivery, and totally take the worry out of fuel ordering! Contact us today at 800-874-1975 if you have questions.

 If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Did you know that giant Canadian Superior Propane bought Porco Energy, Yankee Propane & Eastern Propane? 3 great family owned local businesses sucked up by a monster corporation that has a duty to it’s stockholders to make lots of money and funnel profits out of not out of the local economy – they take it out of the USA. 

If the time has come to "buy local" or American again — Combined Energy Services would love to be your trusted supplier. Local, family owned for over 50 years, 135 team members strong working hard to deliver the BEST service at affordable prices…and we’re 100% American owned! Call CES at 800-874-1975 for a free quote or visit our website at combinedenergyservices.com

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Don’t visit your vacation home in the Catskills, Poconos or Northern New Jersey often in the winter? Too busy to keep an eye on your propane gauge? Afraid you’re going to run out of propane and have your pipes freeze? We have several options that can help alleviate your stress and make you winter visits more relaxing.

First and foremost: SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC DELIVERY! With auto delivery, CES takes on the responsibility of making sure your tank stays full. We pay attention to degree days and schedule deliveries at the optimal fill time when your tank is at 30%.

Second – DOWNLOAD THE SMART PHONE APP! With both Apple & Android applications, the CES app is a great way to manage your account. You can view the estimated amount remaining in your tank, look at historical data (both payments & deliveries) and pay your bill. All with just a few swipes on the phone. Get the app from the Apple Store or the Google Play Store. You do need to know your account number to register (Located on a delivery receipt or bill). To use the app to pay your bill, you will also need to set up a billing profile. Don’t forget you can also use our website and both the app & the website use the same login credentials.

Finally – CONSIDER A REMOTE TANK MONITOR! CES offers our customers that heat with propane a cellular monitor that tells us how much propane is in your tank all times. Therefore, there’s no need to have to worry about calling for gas again. These monitors are especially great for weekend homes and those with sporadic heating schedules. Effectively eliminating the fear of running out of gas.

The tank monitor is available for FREE if you use 600 gallons of propane per year. Otherwise, there is a $139/year fee. Look at this as $11.58 per month for peace of mind. Frozen pipes caused by running out of propane and the cost of repairing the damage could go well into the thousands of dollars. For less than 40 cents per day, you can take that worry off your plate.

Contact any Combined Energy Services office and find out how you can take advantage of our cutting-edge technology. CES moving forward, remembering our history – 50+ years of serving local families & businesses. A trusted community partner.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

The NYPGA 2019 equipment rebates program has ended. Due to the overwhelming interest in the program, funds were exhausted by April 30. Over 125 rebates from 40 companies, totaling $40,700+, were awarded.

New York Propane Gas Association (NYPGA) has continued the conversion-replacement rebate program for 2019, using PERC funds to support retention and growth of safe, efficient propane appliances in New York.

The available rebates for New York State residents were:

• Water Heater​​
  $300 for converting from another fuel
  $150 for replacing an existing propane unit
• Boiler/Furnace
  $400 for converting from another fuel
  $250 for replacing an existing propane unit

In order to access these funds, the propane customer must submit their documentation through a propane marketer (CES). The rebate form is available here. This form needs to be completed and returned to Combined Energy Services for processing. All required documentation must accompany the form. Customers of Combined Energy Services receive a copy of all of the required paperwork including a copy of their leak test (typically a yellow copy) along with their equipment bill. The safety inspection is provided free of charge if you’re a customer of Combined Energy Services and purchase their propane through CES. Rebate checks are issued directly from the New York Propane Gas Association to the customer.

Changing your furnace or water heater to clean, high efficiency propane gas with Combined Energy Services before 12/31/19 and you will get…

• Rebate*
• Free oil tank removal 
• Free propane tank install
• Free underground gas line up to 50 ft with pressure regulators
• Free leak / safety check**

One of most important things to ask your home heating fuel provider is NOT what’s the price per gallon. The real question should be what does your supply look like in the likelihood of a crisis? Will your current energy provider be able to deliver to your home in case of an emergency or natural disaster?

Introducing the Combined Energy Services App!

Everyone loves a day of grilling outside with family and friends in the summertime. Although this may be a refresher for some, CES wants to give out some important information a s Labor Day approaches – here are some propane safety tips to keep in mind when firing up your gas grill:

The hot weather is back and its finally time to make the most out of our backyards! 

 A Grand Opening Event You Won’t Want To Miss!

July 17, 2018 – Earlier this month Combined Energy Services and AllGas Welding Supply opened the doors of our new location in Andover, New Jersey.

After much hard work, we are happy to say we will be offering our customers propane gas, welding supplies & safety equipment, BBQ tank fills, exceptional service and MORE!

As many other gas companies sell-out to large national and international corporations – CES is happy to bring 50 years of family-owned business back to Northern NJ.

For questions regarding our new location or the grand opening call us at (973) 948-0090

As spring and summer come upon us, the weather will gradually become warmer, more people will go outside and the smell of BBQ will begin to fill the air.

If you use propane grills, at some point, the propane cylinder tank will come to the end of its life cycle and no longer be serviceable. When it’s time to get rid of your old propane cylinder, it’s important to know how to properly dispose of a propane tank cylinder. Proper disposal is a matter of environmental safety, as well as personal and home safety.

Since many of these cylinders are portable, customers can take the tank to their local propane company where they know how to properly dispose of them.  This is the safest and best option. Residual propane may be left in the tank, and the propane company has the knowledge and equipment to safely remove the product.  After the product is safely removed, the tank is depressurized, all the valves and fittings are removed and the tank is scrapped.

Unlicensed individuals attempting to remove gas from a cylinder or any propane tank prior to disposal can result in fire, injury or death.

Leave it to the professionals. Combined Energy Services accepts cylinders at their office locations at NO COST (1 lb. camping type cylinders cost $2 each).  The decision is safety and environmentally driven – to keep cylinders out of the waste stream, keep them from being thrown roadside since they cannot be discarded, and protect area fire fighters since if they, they will accumulate on properties. 

To find a Combined Energy Services location, click here.

Don’t Fill up – Hook up!!

Connect your home propane tank to your BBQ that already supplies gas to appliance.  CES will connect your grill through a propane grill connection to your propane tank. 

Eliminate the need for tanks! Installation is easy!

Contact us today!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Tired of huge winter heating bills?  Tired of fluctuating heating prices?  Don’t like calling for deliveries of propane or fuel oil?  

When choosing a propane or fuel oil, it’s important to go with a company you can trust!   You want to put your home or business in the hands of a company you can feel comfortable with. Large companies view their customers as a number, a dollar sign at the end of the month.

Think about the process involved with paying bills! First, you need to open the bills and sort through them.  Second, you have to write a check, fill out the payment forms, and write your address on the return envelope.  Third, you need to dispose of the actual bill safely and securely, which requires a shredder or scissors and time.  And finally, you need to drive to the post office or to a secure public mailbox, purchase a stamp and drop the bill in the mail.

March 3, 2017 – Combined Energy Services is expanding their signature products, services and exceptional customer service to fuel oil customers in Central and Western Orange County, NY!

The family owned and locally operated propane & fuel oil company that serves the Hudson Valley and Catskills, is excited to announce their new fuel oil distribution center at their Goshen, NY location!

What does this mean for you?

If you’re a fuel oil user and live in Central and Western Orange County, NY –  you can now get your fuel oil from a long standing, reputable company who treats their customers like people… and not a number!!

Having a local fuel storage will ensure CES provides better service to their growing customer base in Central and Western Orange County NY vs. the method where many other "fuel oil companies" simply drive to the terminals on the Hudson River to refill – CES eliminates that and can focue their energy on better serving their local customer base instead of driving long distances. 

This helps CES’ efficiencies and allows them to deliver fuel oil to local consumers at a savings, since they’re buying bulk via their own tractor trailers then refilling their smaller delivery trucks in Goshen.

That savings is passed along to the consumers!!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Over time, a tankless water heater may accumulate mineral build up which can erode the walls inside your tank’s heating chamber. To properly maintain and clean your tankless water heater, it’s important to flush those mineral deposits at least once a year. Follow this simple 12-step process to ensure optimal tankless water heater performance and efficiency. Please read all of the instructions before beginning, as you’ll want to have all of the necessary supplies ready for the process. If you’re not comfortable doing this process yourself, please contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionally trained service technicians.

Did you know that Combined Energy Services sells more than just propane gas & fuel oil?  

CES is part of a diverse family of energy-related companies – making us your one-stop shop for fuel products, services & more!

1. Combined Energy Services

Combined Energy Services, a locally owned & operated propane gas and fuel oil company that proudly serves the Catskills, Lower Hudson Valley, Eastern Pennsylvania and Northern New Jersey with propane, fuel oil service and more! 

• Propane Gas & Fuel Oil
• Unleaded & Ethanol Free Gasoline
• On-Road & Off-Road Diesel
• Builder’s Program
• Meter Systems for Builders & Developments
• Propane Autogas 

2. All Gas & Welding Supply Co

All Gas & Welding Supply Co. proudly serves Catskills, Lower Hudson Valley, Eastern Pennsylvania and Northern New Jersey marketplaces since 1980 with welding supplies & equipment as well as high quality industrial and specialty gases.

• Highest quality industrial & special gases
• Welding equipment & supplies
• Industrial supplies
• Filler metals
• Safety equipment
• Helium Tanks & Balloon fillers 

3. Tri-State Carbonation Service

Tri-State Carbonation Service offers complete, quality-driven carbonation solutions for the restaurant and beverage-dispensing industries supplying & servicing compressed gas customers for over 35 years. 

• Bulk CO2 Systems
• Mixed Gas Generators / Nitrogen Generators
• Growhouse Gas

4. Wechsler Pool & Supply Co.

Wechsler Pool & Supply Co. services commercial swimming pool owners in the Catskills & Lower Hudson Valley since 1934. Proudly serving resorts, religious camps, summer camps, water parks, college & universities, municipalities & more! 

• Liquid chlorine
• pH control
• Commercial pool service
• Pool heat

We are One Big, Happy Family – Ready & Able to Serve Your Needs!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Combined Energy Services does its best to help reduce the environmental impact gasoline or diesel run automobiles can have on the atmosphere. We do our part by converting our fleet of vehicles to run on propane autogas!  Propane is clean, safe and efficient. Running automobiles on propane can reduce emissions by 30 – 90% (according to the USEPA)!

Combined Energy Services is going green with propane autogas fleets!

Propane gas was approved as an alternative fuel in the U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992.

Educate Yourself on Propane Gas Conversions from Combined Energy Services

For more than 80 years, commercial engine fleets have been running on propane autogas. Nearly 4 million vehicles worldwide are fueled by propane. Tested by the US EPA, vehicles powered by propane gas can produce 30 – 90% less toxins and smog-producing carbon monoxide, and produce approximately 50% less toxins and smog-producing emissions than compared to gasoline engines.

Propane is the third more popular engine fuel after gasoline and diesel.  It’s a clean, safe and efficient alternative fuel. Visit the US Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center to learn more about propane vehicle emissions. Propane gas in an approved alternative fuel powering more than 4 million vehicles worldwide, resulting in reduced emssions being absored into the atmosphere.

Combined Energy Services is proud to be on the forefront of helping reduce negative environmental issues by having a propane autogas fleet!

Read: "A High Mileage Fleet Vehicle Running on Propane Autogas Can Save Over $5,000 Each Year."

Interested in being part of the fight to protect the environment? Consider converting your vehicle fleet to propane gas today!

Contact the experts at Combined Energy Services to get started!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Is your water heater more than 10 years old? Are you experiencing leaks or is the water not getting up to temperature? It may be time for a new water heater!

Industry studies consistently show that water damage from washing machines and water heaters are the leading sources of water damage insurance claims. 

Typical water heater problems include a leaking tank, not enough hot water, water that is too hot or not hot enough, strange noises in the tank and discolored or smelly water.

Is it time for a new water heater? Take this simple quiz below and see!

According to Consumer Affairs, a leak in the water heater in Union County, PA Government Center unleashed 2,000 gallons of water in July of 2015, affecting 12,000 sq ft of the building and estimated repair costs of $100,000.  

This damage was not caused by a large water heater, it was caused by a leak in a 30-gallon water heater, smaller than ones found in many homes.

Here are the top signs that it may be time to replace your unit:

Leaks

Leaks are not something to play around with. Leaks can cause major structural damage to your home unleashing thousands of gallons of water in a matter of hours.

Signs include corrosion, moisture or mold around the base or the pipes into it. 

Age and Usage

If you heater is over 10 years old and gets used regularly, it’s already reach its life expectancy.  Once your warranty expires, it’s a good idea to begin looking into a new unit or increase your maintenance schedule.

If you have no idea how old your heater is, it’s probably time to replace it!

Water Temperature Issues

If your heater is only producing lukewarm water or takes a long time to heat the water, the heating element or burner may be failing due to age. These parts can be replaced but it may be worth getting a new unit, depending on the age.

Metallic Taste or Visible Rust

How water that smells or taste like iron, or has a reddish-brown color, indicates the inner tank is corroding. This process is impossible to reverse.

Steady Stream of Repairs

If you’ve already made repairs and new issues keep popping up, it may be time to consider replacing it. Several minor issues can indicate a major failure is likely to occur in the near future.

Don’t wait for your water heater to break and cause possible irreparable damages that can cost thousands of dollars! Learn the signs of a failing water heater – age, leaks, water temp issues, rust and more! 

A new water heater may only be a phone call away! Contact the experts at Combined Energy Services to discuss your water heater options!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

What is the Propane Energy Pod?  The Propane Energy Pod is a home energy package that delivers superior comfort and efficiency compared with all-electric homes.  It combines space heating, water heating, cooking, clothes drying and fireplaces – into an integrated, whole-home energy package.

As the weather gets colder, people across the country are starting to turn on their heating systems for the first time for the year. Improper use of such equipment can be incredibly dangerous and can lead to death.

There are a high number of older houses in the Northeast that have buried fuel oil tanks. "Until the 1960’s people were generally un-aware of the risks to the environment and a lot of oil tanks went into the ground," said Stuart Lieberman, a former NJ deputy attorney general who now practices real estate and environmental law.

Combined Energy Services’ understands every customer is different and that it’s not always easy to budget gas expenses. 

You spend thousands of dollars on a swimming pool heater to enjoy the benefits of a warm swimming pool all summer long. Ensure your investment lasts for years to come by properly winterizing your propane pool heater!

Farmers have used controlled burning to improve crops for centuries!  But it hasn’t been until recently that home owners are using mechanical torches, or flamers, around the home to kill unwanted weeds.  

With the choice of energy sources for most of your home heating systems and heating appliances such as water heaters, you may be wondering which is better – propane or electricity?  

August 17, 2016 – This past weekend, Combined Energy Services attended the 17th Annual Ellenville Wawarsing Chamber of Commerce Blueberry Festival in Ellenville, NY.

The Blueberry Festival is an annual family fun festival.  It gives reference to the Blueberry Industry that once was an important part of our area and culture.  The Blueberry Festival also gives our community the opportunity to showcase itself to those from outside our area.  

It is a "give-back" for all the hard work each and every one of us contributes to making our community what it is. Even though the theme is Blueberry, the vendors offered much more… From arts, crafts, hand-mades, clothing, jewelry and more!

CES wanted to give back, show support and represent their propane and fuel oil services in Ulster County by having a booth at the festival.    

Combined Energy Services believes strongly in giving back to the community whenever possible.  

Whether it’s:

• Donating service vans to local animal shelters
• Donating a percent of fuel sold to local hospitals for breast cancer awareness
• Sponsoring local non-profits foundations
• Donating ToughBooks to local fire departments, EMS and police stations
• Donating propane to churches and synagogues

CES is constantly helping out the communities they serve!   

Are you planning home improvements?  Are you installing a deck or fence?  Are you installing a new heating system?

What is Dig Safe and why do you have to call them before you dig?

Dig-Safe is a not-for-profit clearinghouse that notifies participating utility companies of your plans to dig.  In return, these utilities respond to mark out the location of their underground facilities.  This is a FREE service, funded entirely by its member utility companies. 

It’s important to understand the state laws that require you to notify Dig Safe for even small projects.  Even if you’re installing a mailbox or planting shrubs, the depth of utility lines vary, and there may be multiple utility lines in a common area.

How does it work?

1. "Pre-Mark" where you plan to dig before calling 811 – Pre-marking means to mark out the area on the ground where the work will take place, using white stakes, paint or flags.  Note: Pre-marking requirements vary slightly from state to state. Take the time to learn the requirements for the state you live in.
2. Gather the information needed to process a Location Request:
   1. New York
   2. Pennsylvania
   3. New Jersey
       
3. Call 811 in advance – State law requires a minimum number of hours to be notified.  Learn the time frame required for your state.
4. Notify non-member facility owners – Non-member companies are not notified by Dig Safe.  Check your states website to learn the types of utilities companies are required to be members of Dig Safe.  
5. Wait the required time – After notifying, you must wait a certain numbers of hours for utility representatives to respond to mark their lines within your pre-marked area.  Uniform colored code systems are used to identify the type of facility identified. 
6. Respect the marks – Remember that pipes, cables and wires can be buried at any depth, so it can be risky to dig in close proximity of a buried line.  
7. Maintain the marks – Make sure the utility marks stay in place during your project.  If the marks are compromised, call Dig Safe back to re-intact. 

Take the time to learn what’s required from your state BEFORE you plan to dig on your property!

Contact the Dig Safe in your State:

New York: Dig Safely New York

Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania 811

New Jersey: New Jersey One Call

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Summer, especially the month of August, is vacation time for many.  This is the perfect time to get away, enjoy beautiful weather and get back in time to prepare the kids for the next school year. 

Propane home heating systems are becoming increasingly popular throughout the Northeast region. Propane heat is an affordable, cleaner alternative to fuel oil. As well as being as efficient as natural gas.  

Living the Northeast, we are subject to a variety of emergency weather situations and natural disasters that we must prepare for such as: 

• Wildfire
• Flooding
• Severe Storms & Hurricanes
• Other Storm Concerns

By taking some simple propane-related safety precautions to prepare propane tanks for emergency situations, and discussing them with your family, you can reduce the potential for property loss, personal injury and even death.

There are several things you can do if you anticipate severe weather:

• Have your propane tank filled when rainy weather is on the way.  The tank will not float if the water level is below the propane level.
• Know how and where to shut off propane supply and appliances.  For more information, contact your propane supplier.
• Never store or place cylinder indoors or in an enclosed area such as basement, garage or shed.

Propane and Wildfires

Wildfires and out of control grass fires make the news almost daily.  Fueled by dry weather, drought and other factors, these fires can spread quickly and threaten homes and businesses.  Rural areas, with continuous acres of natural vegetation, are highly susceptible to wildfires.

Be aware of droughts, fire weather watches and warnings such as burn bans.  Keeping the area around your tank free of debris and anything flammable goes a long way.  

A good rule of thumb is to keep a clear 10′ radius around tanks.  Additional steps can be followed:

• Cut grass / weeds around the tank exposing bare ground
• Use weed/grass killer around tank after cutting vegetation
• Spread base material or gravel around to prevent growth

Read about Keeping your Family Safe – Important Information about Propane Safety and Wildfires

Floods & High Waters

Severe flooding can result in damage to your propane equipment.  A large tank can become dislodged from its service lines and float away.

Also, water and debris can find their way inside the regulators and controls, which cause potential safety issues. Securing the tank can help prevent a bad situation from becoming worse:

• Ensure the tank is not in a location prone to flooding and high water such as dry creek beds
• Secure the tank with anchoring cables on a solid foundation, if needed
• In the event of flooding, turn off the gas tank’s valve before leaving the home.

If you believe severe weather is approaching pay attention to weather forecasts.  Turn off the gas tank’s valves before leaving the home.  And always listen to emergency response personnel and follow evacuation orders exactly as given.

Read more about Keeping your Family Safe – Important Information about Propane Safety and Floods.

Severe Storms & Hurricanes

Severe storms and hurricanes can cause the most damage.  Thankfully they can also be tracked by the weather services and planned for in advance.  

No matter the amount of preparation, these storms can take unpredictable turns quickly.  Propane tanks are at the mercy of these storms.  While there are some precautions, they should be planned and executed well in advance of hurricane season.

Make sure you secure your tank before the storm months!

With severe storms & hurricanes, the high force of winds can pick above ground tanks off their blocks.  For this reason, underground tanks have the advantage of being able to sustain the forceful winds and will remain if the structure is destroyed.  

It is NOT recommended to attempt to secure your tank when an emergency storm situation is approaching.  Good judgment and concern for life is far more important than securing the tank and propane related issues.  

Read more about Keeping your Family – Important Information about Propane Safety and Hurricanes

Other Storm Concerns

Other storm related concerns can arise; such as hail, debris, falling limbs and trees.  These may not affect the exterior or shell but could possibly damage the fittings or valves under the tank dome.  Be sure to have a tank dome and properly secure it closed to prevent damage to the fittings.

Like in any weather emergency, using common sense, good judgment and heeding the advice of local authorities supersedes any information found here!

If you suspect any of your propane appliances, equipment, or vehicles have been under water or they have been damaged, or you turned off your gas supply; contact us to schedule a time for a trained service technician to perform a complete inspection of your propane system. 

Review Combined Energy Services’ Safety pages (propane & heating oil) to further educate yourself on what to do in case of emergency weather situations.

If you have questions or safety concerns, ALWAYS contact your propane company!

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

The decision of using a home owned vs supplier loaned propane tank is dependent on many factors, such as personal preference, equipment usage and budget. Additionally, propane companies have different policies that factor into the decision of whether to buy or use a supplier loaned tank. Most propane customers in the U.S. loan / lease their tank(s) from a supplier.  However, some users own their tanks.  

June 14, 2016 – Fun, food, family and all to support a worthy cause!  

Get ready for one of the largest poker runs & one day event in the North East.  On Sunday, July 17th, the 8th Annual BAER’S MS Poker Run to Benefit Multiple Sclerosis.  

Registration is from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at the following locations:

• Baer’s Sports Center – 330 Grandview Avenue, Honesdale, PA
• Harmony Lodge No. 8 – 519 Route 206, Andover, NJ 

The 2015 MS Poker Run had tremendous outpouring of generosity and raised over $12,000.  This was one of their best years.

Combined Energy Services has been a proud sponsor of the MS Poker Run for many years!  Our Dingmans Ferry, PA office staff hits the pavement with great excitement to participate in this event and help fight Multiple Sclerosis! 

For more information, contact: Baer Sports Center – 570-253-2000.

June 14, 2016 – Nana’s House Child Care Center wanted to do something meaningful for the community, and they achieved that on June 4th with their inaugural Children’s Expo in Rock Hill, NY.

Going camping this weekend?!?!  

According to the National Fire Protection Association, a Propane System Leak Test must be performed "Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be tested for leakage.  If leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made." (NFPA 54 (2006) 8.2.3. 

The two main goals of any restaurant owner: keep operating costs down while keep customers coming back! 

The profit margin in restaurants paired with high electric and heating costs make taking a look at propane worth it.  And the risk can’t be taken lightly when it comes to any downtime or impact on operations from an unreliable source of energy.

In addition to fueling the energy-efficient appliances that keep your utility bills low and your guests comfortable and satisfied, building with propane provides an opportunity to offer delightful amenities that turn your guests in regulars.  

Benefits of Propane: Here are a few reasons using propane in your restaurant could be beneficial for your operation and your customers.

1. Outdoor Upgrades – Outdoor propane appliances provide your customers with an unique ambiance that they will not forget.  Outdoor lighting, patio heaters, fire pits, hearths, and decorative flame features provide decorative surroundings as well as extend your seating areas to the outdoors and extends your outdoor seating season. On the other hand, when the weather is colder, having radiant snow-melting systems installed in walkways, stairways, entrances provide additional amenities, as well as safety functions.  
2. Inside Benefits – Restaurants are filled with kitchenware and appliances utilized for cooking that could easily be converted to propane. The advantage is clear as propane’s main perk is its efficiency.  A variety of equipment such as buffets, stoves, ovens, fryers or rice cookers would be powered with propane. In addition to kitchen appliances, higher efficiency propane furnaces, water heaters and cooling appliances are an affordable, efficient and environmentally-friendly heating option that is economical to operate.  
3. Cooking is More Precise – Cooking with propane provides instant heat and precise control.  The elements instantly start to produce heat which means less time wasted waiting to heat up.  When the stove is turned off, the flame goes out, which means the elements also cools faster.  This causes less ambient heat to be created, and more control over your cooking. 
4. Safer – The characteristics and regulations applied to propane makes it one of the safest fuels when compared to others such as gasoline, diesel and natural gas.
5. More Reliability – There is always a risk of power disruption to your restaurant due to various reasons.  You can’t afford any downtime from a power outage.  Standby Generators, powered by propane, provide insurance against any power disruption.  For businesses with refrigerated food, uninterrupted power supply is critical. While storms, unpredictable weather, and unreliable power grids create uncertain supply of electricity, propane is safe and dependable energy source that won’t fail in a storm. 

Every restaurant owner cares about the quality of service that is provided.  Building and renovating with propane appliances can help slash energy costs and deliver key performance abilities that are vital to their business. Contact CES at 800-874-1975 for details or click here for a no obligation quote.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

With the rise of interest to "go green," geothermal heating has entered the race as one of the best ways to heat your home and your appliances.  Deciding between geothermal heating vs propane heating can be a tough choice. 

With geothermal, there are talks of low energy costs through the utilization of the earth’s thermal energy.  However, you don’t install a heating system just for financial reasons, you do it to keep you and your family warm during long, cold winter months.  

And that’s just it, more comfortable heat and lower upfront installation costs of propane make it the best choice for most projects!  

What is Geothermal Heating?

Geothermal heating is the direct use of geothermal energy for heating some applications.  This energy originates from the heat retained within the earth.  

Most high temperature geothermal heat is harvested in regions close to tectonic plate boundaries.  Even cold ground contains heat, but may need to be extracted with the assistance of a heat pump or Ground-source heat pumps (GSHP).  

A warmer source allows higher efficiency and, in contrast, colder sources does not provide that same high efficiency heat. 

Geothermal systems use a ground loop – pipes buried a few feet underground – to help transfer the energy from the earth to warm a home in winter.  

How Efficiency Works?

The efficiency rating, for any type of heating system, reveals how much of the energy consumed by the device is transferred into heat for the home.  

For example, if you purchase a 90% efficient furnace, you can expect that 90% of the fuel used by the furnace is transformed into heat.  The remaining 10% escapes through the flue during the combustion process.

Is Geothermal Viable?

Before choosing to go with geothermal, you must decide if a GSHP is feasible for the project.  The system requires wells, or "loop fields," to utilize the ground as a heat source.

Space constraints are a significant issue in existing properties and urban areas.  Higher heating and cooling loads may require deeper wells, more wells, or more trenches in limited spaces. 

By comparison, propane furnaces are easily installed in basements, attics, equipment closets and other locations.

Propane vs. Geothermal Comfort

Geothermal has a dirty little secret… it can’t deliver the same warm, comfortable heat as a modern propane furnace.  Saving money is great, but customers will not be happy with their heating systems if they are uncomfortable.  

Stand alone geothermal systems deliver heat in the 90 – 120 degree Fahrenheit range. This may appear acceptable, but when the air temperature falls below body temperature customers are likely to become uncomfortable. 

Geothermal systems are typically paired with electronic heat systems to supplement the comfort gap during extreme cold weather.  When the electric heat is running, there is a significant increase in monthly costs, and also increase in carbon footprint.  Thus negating the benefits of the geothermal system.  

Compared to propane heating systems that deliver heat in the 120 – 140 degree Fahrenheit range, well above the cold threshold.  

Propane vs. Geothermal Costs

According to research by Newport Partners, LLC, geothermal does have the lowest annual energy costs of any type of heating system studied.  However, other costs associated with geothermal are NOT the cheapest:

• Upfront costs of geothermal are significant
• Costs include ground source heat pump, plus digging, installing, and burying ground loops
• This leads to the longest payback period of any heating system – up to 15 years in some cases

In contrast, a high-efficiency propane furnace was the most affordable to purchase and install of all the heating systems studies.  

Because propane is a clean, efficient energy source, you can count on affordable annual energy costs, as well. 

Propane: More Than Just Home Heating

Here’s some more good news!  Once you’ve installed propane, you can use it for more than just home heating:

• Water Heating
• Cooking
• Clothes Drying
• Fireplaces
• BBQ’s
• Standby Generators
• And More!

Contact CES today for a no obligation quote at 800-874-1975 or click here.

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

Builders and contractors are increasingly choosing propane over fuel oil and electricity as their fuel of choice.

Why? That’s because propane is a clean, reliable, portable energy that goes anywhere and powers almost anything. It’s a great way for home builders to accommodate a home buyer’s desire for gas when natural gas isn’t available.

What are the reasons to consider propane? By recommending propane gas when natural gas is not available, home owners are getting what they really want!

Propane is:

1. Efficient – Propane furnaces have an efficiency of 90% of above, compared to oil which comes in at around 60% efficiency.  In addition, it requires much more maintenance to maintain the efficiency levels in oil furnaces than compared to propane furnaces.  If you want to save money, choose propane!
2. Environmentally Friendly – If you want your home to be low-emission and green, propane is the way to go.  It’s non-toxic, non-caustic and clean burning.  On top of that, it will not cause damage to the environment if spilled, which is not the case for oil.  The by-products of combustion are not considered to be even nearly as damaging as currently used fuels.
3. Versatile – Propane does it all!  Most appliances in your home can be run on propane.  From your kitchen appliances, outdoor barbecues and fire pits, cozy fireplaces, efficient furnaces and water heaters, and back up generators…  
4. Safe – Propane is one of the safest fuels. Subject to strict manufacturing standards, propane and their tanks are created to ensure they are durable and safe to use. Propane can’t be ingested, like gasoline and alcohol fuels.  It won’t ignite when combined with air (unless the source of ignition reaches at least 940 degrees Fahrenheit).  
5. Contractors Love Propane! Customers expect creativity, practicality and economical efficiency in the homes they want built. Propane supports today’s life style!  It provides home owners with the modern amenities they want, including on-demand water, energy for outdoor living spaces and back up generators for emergency situations. It gives the contractor a better opportunity to build a home that a home buyer will love.

Check out some Builder’s Case Studies that explains the reasons why builder’s prefer propane over other energy sources. If you’re considering using propane in your new home, please contact us!  

If you have questions about your service or products we offer, please email info@combinedenergyservices.com Do not leave a service or product question in the comments.

May 11, 2016 – CES Donated $4,000 to the 5th Annual AWF 5K

Energy can heat up a lot more than hot dogs and hamburgers during the summer in the Northeast where the heat and humidity make it difficult to stay comfortable.

Automatic delivery says you time by having us take care of scheduling you home heating fuel deliveries.

On Saturday, May 9, 2015 – Combined Energy Services was proud to be able to donate $5000 to the Allyson Whitney Foundation at their annual 5k race / run which this year raised over $90,000 which is used to support young people with rare cancers. 

In 2010 after graduating from graduate school with a degree in speech pathology, Monticello NY native Allyson Whitney Strong was diagnosed with a rare form of aggressive cancer that put her future dreams on hold.  Determine, courageous and valiant do not even begin to describe her character as she battled with Small Cell Cervical Cancer (SCCC) and raised awareness about rare diseases.  As the unthinkable had happened, she wanted to be a voice on a billboard, yelling to young adults, "this can happen to anyone at anytime!".  Her intellect was trying to figure why this happened to her and others,  Cancer is a word, where we all stop and hold our breath, but what about rare cancer with no protocol, where do you turn?  Ally turned into a self-reliant warrior.  She traveled in and out of the country searching for a protocol to defeat her cancer.  She was tough and fought hard, but the war ended on November 24, 2011.  

The work of the Allyson Whitney Foundation’s pursuit is to continue Ally’s wishes and aspirations.  In honor of her memory the organization awards "Life Interrupted grants" for young adult patients battling a rare cancer.  In Ally’s blog, she vowed when well she would, "…help others in this situation whether it’s finacially, physically or most importantly, mentally".  Her words inspire us and remind us about the power of gratitude:  "At night, I try to think of at least three things I’m grateful for that day – and I truly think that it helps when I wake up… I wake up and smile and say thank you for another day".  Her desire to find out "why" leads us to further innovative research.  

Combined Energy Services has known the Strong family for many years and stands behind the Foundation’s efforts, proud to be a sponsor and play a small part in their worthy mission.

To find out more, check them out here:   Allyson Whitney Foundation  

More and more we’re hearing nightmare stories of old buried steel fuel oil tanks rotting through, causing oil to leak into the soil that result in huge cleanup bills for the unsuspecting home owners.  

As the price of gasoline continues to rise, the cost savings from converting fleet vehicles to PROPANE AUTOGAS increases.   That’s because propane is cheaper than conventional gasoline, ethanol based gasoline and by far – diesel fuel on a net fuel cost basis.   In fact, the fuel savings for a high mileage vehicle can offset the cost of the conversion usually in less than 12-18 months, saving the owner $30,000 – $36,000 over a 6 year life span of this vehicle.   This savings can practically PAY FOR THE VEHICLE in fuel cost savings. 

Maintenance costs do not increase for converted vehicles.  In fact, by converting to clean burning propane, it may be feasible to extend oil changes which reduces fleet maintenance costs.  

Go Green!   Propane Autogas offers the lowest overall life-cycle fuel costs to high consumption vehicles while reducing Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions and improving air quality.  Great PR to tell your customers and the public that you care about the environment and your fleet is ‘going green’!  

Fuel injection technology & bi-fuel ability  (propane OR gasoline):   Today’s fuel injected engines are significantly improved over the old carbureted technologies used in the 1980s and 90s.  Typically, these modern fuel injected systems with sophisticated computer controls work directly with your vehicle’s OEM computer system to "trick" the engine to think it’s on gasoline.  Your engine today can often run on straight gasoline, E5, E10, E85 or propane gas and it won’t know the difference due to the fuel injection and computer systems that regulate all engine controls.   This means no driver involvement, runs seamlessly and if you run  out of propane on your route, the vehicle switches back to gasoline with no involvement of the driver.  This doubles your vehicle’s distance they can travel essentially – but you’d rather get back full of propane for the $$ savings!   

Refueling can be done AT YOUR FACILITY since CES can install tank & dispensing equipment and train your staff.  No more wasted time at C-Stores, no risk of employees filling an extra gas can in the back or topping off the spouse’s car – not that this happens with your fleet, but we’ve seen it many times before.  With a refueler tank at your facility – your fleet can fill right in your own yard as needed. 

If you have a high mileage fleet — feel free to contact Combined Energy Services today for more information and to arrange a test drive at your facility.   As of May 2014, CES has the one of the largest privates fleets of "hybrids" in the tri-state region with 19 vehicles running on propane autogas.  We’d be happy to let you drive one to prove to yourself that there is zero performance difference, same MPG, same acceleration.  Just big $$ savings.  

Fill out the request form below or call us today:   800-874-1975  

To learn more check out our autogas page:  www.autogasnewyork.com  

Or download our full brochure here 

Combined Energy Services automatic delivery home heating customers love the savings everytime they fill up their car at our gasoline station in Monticello, NY with our Customer Loyalty Card program.   Just slide your card and our already low price drops another 10 cents per gallon just for our Loyalty Program customers.  

How can I get one?   Here’s how the program works: 

• purchase your central home heating fuel oil or propane gas from CES on automatic delivery 
• use at least 500 gallons of heating oil or propane per year for heating
• each household can get two Customer Loyalty cards, each allowing up to 100 gals discount per month
• home heating fuel account must be kept with agreed upon credit limits
• may be combined with our Budget Payment Plan, Price Capped Budget Payment Plan or Pre-Pay Cap Plan.  Payments must be kept up to date
• not to be combined with any other promotion or special pricing program

We’ve been told for years that we have the lowest priced gasoline in Sullivan County, so when you save another 10 cents per gallon off that….mixed with full service from 8 am – 5 pm and the convenience of being open 24 hours, it can’t get much better!  

With CES home heating – you get competitive pricing, amazing cap plans that really save you money and that can be spread out over 12 monthly, lower payments to keep home heating costs affordable and predictable during the unpredictable winter months.  We have saved customers millions of dollars over the last 30 years with our price capped budget plans, give us a call for more information.  Save on home heating, spread the payments to heat your home out over 12 months, save an extra 10 cents per gallon on your gasoline — CES is truly the way to save!

Call today to sign up or to get more information – 800-874-1975 or fill out the form below. 

How Hard is it to Change Propane Suppliers? 

Many consumers stay with their current propane supplier simply out of the ‘unknowns’ with how-to change regardless of how much that company may be overcharging or how bad their service has become.  

We’ve also seen where some of the big Wall Street owned national propane corporations have scare tactics and hidden fees they want to charge if a customer attempts to change providers.   If you’re looking to possibly change companies – here are some frequently asked questions:  

Q:   Is changing to Combined Energy Services (CES) a simple process?  

A:   Yes.  It all starts with a call to our customer service reps who may be able to set it all up on the phone or we can have a field customer service / sales rep stop by your property for a no-obligation consultation.  Very often it’s easier to have a rep take a look with you to see what you currently have, what we can do and any recommended changes.  We make it all very simple and painless! 

Q:  My current tank belongs to another supplier.  Does CES provide loaned tanks?  

A:  Yes!   We have tanks of every size and even offer a variety of colors to choose from.

Q:  I have a buried propane tank owned by another supplier, can I still change to CES? 

A:  Certainly!  We lease buried propane tanks (500 & 1000 gal common sizes) for $1 per year when used for central heating and will swap out your existing tank from another supplier at no cost to you at all.  We have our own fleet of excavation equipment and your new tank will be protected from corrosion with new sacrificial magnesium anode bags as required by code.

Q:  What does it cost to change to CES?

A:  Nothing.  We install our loaned tank at no cost, normally provide the pressure regulator on the tank and any outside connections.  If you’re heating with gas we often can install the tank up to 100 feet from your home at no cost using buried plastic gas piping that will never deteriorate, the same that’s used for natural gas.  

Q:  Do I need to wait until my propane tank is empty before changing to CES?  

 A:  Normally no. Depending on the jurisdiction we’re able to pump your gas over from the existing tank into our newly installed one.  Some of gas companies have a "cancellation fee" or "tank pump out fee" for any gas remaining in your old tank so it’s best to consult with one of our sales professionals to see how best we can assist you.  The one thing we’ve learned is make sure you put a big sign inside the tank lid of your old tank if you don’t want a refill since it’s a common trick for the super-big nationwide companies to immediately FILL YOUR TANK the day you call to say stop deliveries or the very next day.  It’s often a tactic to keep you as a customer by adding expense to the switch.  If you’re making a move – put a sign under the lid and even take a photo of it so when they want to get paid, you can say go pound salt and come pick up your fill tank crooks!  

Q:  Does CES have repair service for my gas burning appliances & heating system and are they available after hours? 

A:  Absolutely!  Our service staff is available 24/7 so any time you have a problem we’re just a phone call away any time night or day!

Q:  How can I be sure you’re not just like the other companies and I’m going to hate you as well?

A:  This is the great part about dealing with a local, family owned & operated company.  We’ve been servicing propane customers in the region since 1968 and have thousands of satisified, long time customers.  To read some of what our customers have to say – click HERE.   

To learn more about becoming a CES customer, to find out what we offer, pricing plans and what makes us different from all the competition, feel free to give us a call at 800-874-1975 or complete the form below.

To own or to lease? That is the question. But the answer might actually surprise you. Most propane customers in the U.S.  lease their tank(s) from a supplier. There are a variety of valid reasons for this. Still there are individuals who desire to own their tanks. This article will explain the pros and cons of leasing vs. ownership.