Compared to other fossil fuels, natural gas is “relatively clean burning,” according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). It produces less than 60% of the carbon dioxide from burning coal, and just over 75% of the CO2 of fuel oil.
But that doesn’t mean that natural gas is a completely safe and environmentally friendly energy source to use in your North Shore, Massachusetts or Seacoast, New Hampshire home. Let’s take a look at the history of natural gas leaks and safety issues—one of which happened right in our backyard—and consider safer, more environmentally friendly energy options homeowners have to heat their home.
Is Natural Gas Safe?
While natural gas may not be the worst fossil fuel offender when it comes to safety issues and environmental damage, a look at natural gas explosion statistics shows that it has a far from perfect track record.
A study of fossil fuel pipeline incidents occurring between January 2010 and November 2018 found that, of the more than 5,500 total incidents causing more than 800 fires, almost 300 explosions, nearly 600 injuries, and over 125 fatalities, that natural gas distribution lines (the pipes that deliver gas directly to your homes) accounted for the “most injuries (79%), deaths (73%), evacuees (62%), fires (71%), and explosions (78%).”
Perhaps most well known to North Shore residents is a 2018 natural gas emergency in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover resulting from overpressurized gas lines operated by Columbia Gas. The Merrimack Valley gas explosions caused 40 home fires, one person’s death, and the evacuation of over 30,000 people.
What’s the Best Home Alternative to Natural Gas Energy?
Given recent history, many homeowners in our service area are understandably concerned about how safe their homes might be with natural gas pipelines installed, and are looking for other options.
Enter — heat pump installation. Kearney HVAC, working with Mitsubishi Electric heat pumps, has been leading the way for North Shore and Seacoast homeowners looking for a clean, year-round HVAC solution that will cut down on energy costs and reduce the risk of heating system fires and explosions.
All-electric heat pumps offer a number of advantages to homeowners, including:
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Ultra-efficient operation that lowers energy costs
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Heating and cooling settings for year-round service
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All electric-operation eliminates fossil fuel energy usage
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Ductless mini-split units offer customizable “zone heating”
Save More When You Upgrade to Heat Pumps With Mass Save Rebates
Transforming your home with a new safe and clean-energy heating and cooling solution has never been more affordable. Not only will you lower your monthly utility bills by upgrading to the all-year HVAC solution of heat pumps, but Kearney customers can also save up to $10,000 in Mass Save rebates. And, as a Mitsubishi Electric Diamond contractor, you’ll get exclusive benefits like a 12 year product warranty and extended service warranty.
