Of course, winter isn’t always a time of doom and gloom. “Wintertime on PEI has always been my favourite,” says MacAulay. “I love taking my kids to hockey, spending time outside, and seeing just how pretty the Island looks after a nice snowfall.”
cold home with you. I find, with hydronic heat, it warms you to the bone.”
"Most people will want to change out fixtures or remodel that kitchen or bathroom," says MacAulay, who thinks the wintertime is really a great time to renovate. “You’re not missing the hot days outside, and you are avoiding the busy new build season!” When MacAulay heads up a renovation, he organizes it from start to finish, including the design (if required), handling the initial first steps and all details related to project management, as well as recommendations on sub- trades for clients. “What people need to grasp about winter renos is making sure all your trades are ready,” he says. “There’s nothing worse than having a renovation booked, and a certain amount of time allotted for it, and have a trade ‘no show.’ That’s why it’s nice to have a set group of trades working together and knowing each other’s schedules, so they can make the timeline on the project.” Winter is also prime time for stepping up the heating in your residence. After all, no one wants to feel that winter chill while in the comfort of their own home. High Valley offers a variety of heating products, including high-efficiency steel and cast-iron boilers, electric water heaters, smart controls, and thermostats. Being a part of the Island’s “Network of Excellence Contractors” means that, not only does High Valley meet provincial regulations and standards, they also sell energy efficiency products supported by the efficiencyPEI Rebate Program. “I often recommend that, if you’re going to switch out your boiler, to go with a cast-iron cold start for many reasons,” says MacAulay. “Efficiency being one, run time being another, and savings on oil, as well.” However, MacAulay’s personal favorite is hydronic heat. “I love in-floor and other hot water heating products. We live in a very wet, cold, and damp part of the world, and I always say you ‘wear’ the
Another common household issue that MacAulay tends to during the winter months is plumbing problems. “I advise people, you should always keep a good plumber as a friend. Especially on PEI,” MacAulay says with a laugh. “We deal with a lot of frozen homes, busted pipes, and very confusing heating systems.” Although MacAulay keeps a busy schedule in the winter, he says it’s rewarding helping out Islanders. “We have been there for many families on a frigid PEI night. We just love what we do!”
High Valley Heating & Plumbing Inc. 26A Myrtle St, Stratford 902.569.5212
After Hours: 902.940.6547 www.highvalleypandh.com
WINTER 2020 www.pei-living.ca
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