This seemingly smart summer habit could be harming your HVAC system. With another record-setting summer underway and AC units working around the clock, many of us are looking for ways to cut down on our electricity bills. While closing vents in individual rooms or spaces might seem like a reasonable way to save money this summer, it’s actually not quite that simple. Despite what you might have heard, HVAC professionals say that closing vents in unused rooms is not an effective cost-saving measure. In fact, it might be doing more harm than good to your HVAC system. Should You Close AC Vents In Unused Rooms In Summer? “No, you should never close vents in individual rooms,” says Brad Martin, Field Service Manager for Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. HVAC systems are designed to maintain a specific and balanced airflow known as CFM, or cubic feet per minute, throughout a home. Closing vents can increase pressure in the ductwork, potentially causing leaks or damage to the system. As a result, the system will not work properly or efficiently. What Role Do Vents Play In Heating And Cooling A Home? Vents act as exit and entry points for warm and/or cool air to lower or raise the temperature in your house. As the return removes the cool or hot air, Martin says, the supply vents replace this air with the opposite of what it is removing. In most homes, the furnace (forced air) and air conditioner (central air) utilize the same vents. Proper air flow is essential to the function of both systems. What Are The Risks Of Closing Vents In Unused Rooms? It might help to think of your HVAC system like your body’s cardiovascular system, and a closed vent like a blocked artery. “Closing vents in the individual rooms can cause the static pressure of the system to rise, causing issues like your blower motor failing, causing the compressor to fail,” Martin explains. “When individual vents are closed, the air still travels down that duct. Once it travels down the duct it has nowhere to go and then puts positive pressure back on the system.” Are There Any Energy Savings From Closing Vents In Unused Rooms During Summer? Closing vents in individual rooms will not help your cooling costs but actually hurt your system. “Closing vents puts a strain on the system, which in turn causes the system to work harder,” Martin says. “HVAC systems are designed for a certain CFM, so when the system’s vents are closed, the air that is still traveling through the ducts puts pressure on the system. This causes both the motor and compressor to get hot. When mechanical parts get hot, they pull higher amperage causing electricity bills to be higher and not perform at top energy efficiency.” The Correct Way To Adjust Air Flow To Different Rooms Instead of closing individual vents during the summer, Marin recommends installing (or adjusting) butterfly dampers at the main duct line. These dampers act as a block at the main duct trunk line, causing your system to function like there isn’t a vent in that particular room at all. Unless you’re experienced working with HVAC systems, it’s best to enlist a local HVAC technician to handle this for you. Source

Selecting the appropriate amount of business insurance coverage is crucial for safeguarding your company against unforeseen events. Insufficient coverage can leave your business vulnerable to financial losses, while excessive coverage may lead to unnecessary expenses. Striking the right balance ensures optimal protection without overspending. Why Insurance Coverage Matters Insurance protects your business from unexpected events—such as property damage, employee injuries, legal claims, and more. It’s more than a legal requirement; it’s a vital part of business strategy. With the appropriate coverage, you gain: • Continuity: Keep operating after a disaster. • Financial security: Avoid paying out-of-pocket for legal fees or repairs. • Confidence: Focus on growth without worrying about worst-case scenarios. Step 1: Understand Your Business Risks Every business faces unique exposures. To start: • Consider industry-specific risks, e.g., contractors have job-site hazards; retailers face theft or slip-and-fall claims. • Review past incidents or claims in your industry or business. • Factor in regional risks like severe weather or local regulations. A strong insurance plan starts with identifying what could go wrong. Step 2: Consult an Insurance Professional You don’t have to go it alone. A knowledgeable agent or broker will: • Analyze your operations: services, employees, assets, and day-to-day risks. • Explain policy options: general liability, commercial property, professional liability, workers’ comp, commercial auto, cyber coverage, etc. • Conduct a risk assessment to spot gaps and opportunities. Step 3: Catalog Your Assets and Exposure The more you possess, the more coverage you likely need: • Physical assets: buildings, tools, inventory, machinery. • Digital assets: customer or employee data—consider cyber insurance. • Intellectual property: patents, trademarks, or trade secrets. Ensure your coverage reflects full replacement value of tangible and intangible assets. Step 4: Align Insurance with Revenue and Growth Revenue often dictates risk appetite: • Current revenue: A $2M business may need higher liability limits than a smaller one. • Growth plans: Expansion, new service areas, or additional employee drivers affect coverage needs. • Contract stipulations: Some clients require specific policy limits before working together. Step 5: Analyze Your Liability Exposure Liability claims pose major risks: • General liability covers bodily injury and property damage from operations. • Professional liability (E&O) protects against mistakes in advice or services. • Product liability is essential if you manufacture or sell products. • Employment practices liability addresses HR-related lawsuits like wrongful termination. Your agent can help assess what types of liability are most relevant. Step 6: Know Legal and Contractual Requirements Every location and industry has standards: • Workers’ compensation: Usually mandated if you have employees. • Commercial auto insurance: Required if your business uses vehicles. • Surety bonds: Often needed to legally bid on contracts in industries like construction. Step 7: Set Appropriate Coverage Limits After assessing risks and assets, establish coverage limits: • Property insurance should cover full replacement value—not just depreciated worth. • General liability: Most small to mid-sized businesses choose $1M per-occurrence and $2M aggregate; higher-risk industries may need more. • Umbrella/excess liability: Adds extra protection above standard limits. • Deductibles: Higher deductibles lower premiums but require readiness to cover costs up-front. Step 8: Review and Adjust Regularly Insurance isn’t a set-and-forget decision: • Annual reviews: Reassess when staffing, services, revenue, or assets change. • After incidents: Post-claim or near-miss, update your policy to prevent future issues. • Triggers for change: New locations, equipment, or revenue targets should prompt a review. Determining the right amount of business insurance means balancing your exposure, assets, revenue, and regulatory requirements. Work with a trusted agent, evaluate your liability exposure, and choose coverage limits that align with your industry and size. By following these steps, identify risks, consult professionals, value your assets, match coverage to revenue, evaluate liability, meet requirements, set limits, and review regularly—you build a protection plan that grows with your business and safeguards what you’ve worked hard to build.

Building a business involves making countless vital decisions, including hiring the right team, buying the right software, and finding a suitable space. Understanding the basics of insurance coverage may be glossed over during day-to-day operations. Insurance is one of the behind-the-scenes essentials that can make or break financial stability when the unexpected occurs. It is vital that you fully understand your policy limits and deductibles. Insurance Limits: Your Business’s Safety Net An insurance limit is the maximum amount your policy will pay out in the event of a claim. When you think of insurance as a safety net beneath a tightrope walker, the higher the limit, the more protection you have in a fall. If coverage limits are too low, you could face severe financial losses. For example, when a business is hit by a natural disaster or is named in a high-value lawsuit with damages over $1 million when the policy limit is $500,000, the business will be responsible for paying the remaining $500,000. Choose your limits carefully to reflect the actual value of your business, the risks involved, and the potential recovery costs. Deductibles: Lower Is Not Always Better A deductible is what is paid out of pocket toward a covered claim before insurance coverage kicks in. It is a common misconception that it is always better to have a lower deductible. Of course, it means you pay less upfront, but lower deductibles often come with higher premiums. A higher deductible can save you more on monthly premiums, but you must be prepared to cover more in case of a disaster. This is a classic case of “you get what you pay for.” Consider your cash flow and risk tolerance carefully when choosing a deductible. General vs. Specific Limits Insurance limits are not all created equal. While general limits apply to the entire policy, specific limits can be tied to individual categories of coverage. For example, a commercial liability policy with a general limit of $1 million may have specific limits within the policy for product liability, employee injury, and other types of coverage. It is essential to know what each limit covers so you are not left high and dry if you need to file a claim. When Raising Your Limits Is a Smart Move Ultimately, understanding insurance limits and deductibles comes down to two questions: What is the worst-case scenario, and can your business survive it? As your business grows, so do your risks, and your insurance limits should grow with it. If you are expanding, launching new products, or taking on larger contracts, it is time to reassess the policy limits. Adjusting coverage to match the new reality could save you headaches down the road. Business insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It should match your unique business needs, and limits and deductibles should be re-visited as the business evolves. The right coverage gives you peace of mind to focus on what matters most – running your business. Our agents are licensed professionals who can review your business policies and help ensure you have the right coverage, including limits and deductibles. Source: www.insuranceneighbor.com/5-things-business-owners-should-know-about-insurance-limits-deductibles/

Having a home with a fenced yard can help with security and privacy concerns and increase your home’s value. That’s why it’s essential to keep up with fence maintenance. Proper fence maintenance Whether it’s a vinyl, wood, or metal, if not properly maintained, a fence can deteriorate, making it more prone to damage. While wear and tear to your fence from lack of maintenance won’t be covered by your homeowners policy, there are things you can do to properly maintain it. Inspect fence regularly Check your fence often for damage like rot, loose boards, cracks, or rust. Clean fence A fence should regularly be cleaned with a hose or power washer to remove dirt, grime, and mold. If it’s metal and showing signs of rust, use sandpaper or rust remover. Repair damage After you have inspected and cleaned your fence, look for any spots that need to be repaired. Broken, warped, or rotted boards should be replaced, and any loose screws or nails should be tightened. For metal or vinyl fences, cracks or dents should be repaired as they may indicate deterioration or instability. Apply protective coating To protect your fence from water damage, rot, UV rays, and insects, apply a sealant, paint, or wood stain to touch up minor chips and cracks. Maintain vegetation Trees surrounding your fence should be trimmed to prevent limbs from falling on top. Plants, vines, flowers, and weeds should also be cut and maintained to decrease the chance of overgrowth, which can damage your fence. Keep sprinklers pointed away Because water can damage wood and rust metal, sprinklers should be pointed away from your fence to maintain longevity. Homeowners insurance and fence damage A standard homeowner’s policy with MAPFRE Insurance will usually cover losses should certain events like a major fire, windstorm, or heavy snow damage your home’s interior or exterior. The Other Structures portion of your policy may pay for damage to structures on your property that aren’t attached to your house, like a fence. Some examples of damage may include: • Fire or lightning • Vandalism • Snow or ice damage • Damage caused by a vehicle The type of fence damage your policy would not cover would be general wear and tear, damage from a lack of maintenance, or damage from an earthquake or flood. If your fence was damaged by a neighbor’s tree, you might be covered, but it could depend on the property line. In some cases, both you and the neighbor could be equally responsible for the fence’s replacement or repair. Keeping your fence in good condition not only enhances the appearance and value of your property—it also helps protect it. By taking time to perform regular inspections and simple maintenance tasks, you can extend the life of your fence and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Remember, while homeowners insurance may cover sudden and accidental damage caused by certain events, it won’t cover neglect or lack of upkeep. If you’re unsure whether your current policy offers the right protection for your fence or other structures on your property, reach out to us. We can help you understand what’s covered, what isn’t, and whether additional coverage might be right for you. A little maintenance now, paired with the right insurance coverage, can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Source: www.mapfreinsurance.com/blog/proper-fence-maintenance/

Agostinelli Teller & Ryan Insurance, AT&R Insurance, Ashland MA Insurance, Ashland Insurance, Massachusetts Insurance, Auto Insurance Ashland, Home Insurance Ashland, Business Insurance Ashland, Insurance Agency Ashland, Insurance Coverage Massachusetts, Marriage, Massachusetts, Newlyweds, Marriage Certificate, Name Change, Identification, Driver’s License, RMV, Spousal Coverage, Employer Benefits, Massachusetts Health Connector, Filing Taxes, Married Filing Joint, Married Filing Separate, Auto Insurance, Home Insurance, Insurance, Policy Update, Beneficiaries, Coverage Review, Financial Planning, Liability Coverage, Insurance Discounts

When it comes to home insurance, one of the most pressing questions homeowners have is, “Are natural disasters covered?” After all, the unexpected can happen at any time, and the impact of natural disasters can be devastating. Understanding what your home insurance policy covers—and what it doesn’t—is essential for protecting your home and belongings. In this blog, we’ll explore various natural disasters, how they are treated by standard home insurance policies, and whether you need additional coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected. The Basics of Home Insurance Coverage What Does Home Insurance Typically Cover? Home insurance is designed to protect your home and personal belongings from a range of risks. Most standard policies cover a variety of perils, including: Fire and Smoke Damage: Damage caused by fire or smoke is typically covered, allowing you to repair or rebuild your home. Theft and Vandalism: If someone breaks into your home and steals your possessions, your policy can help reimburse you for those losses. Wind and Hail Damage: Damage from windstorms or hail is usually covered under a standard policy, including damage to your roof, siding, and windows. Liability Protection: Home insurance also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property and decides to sue you. However, when it comes to natural disasters, coverage can vary significantly based on the type of disaster and your specific policy. Let’s break down some of the most common natural disasters and how they are typically treated in home insurance policies. Floods: Not So Easy to Cover Understanding Flood Insurance Floods can be incredibly destructive, and unfortunately, they are not covered by standard home insurance policies. This is a crucial point for homeowners to understand. If you live in a flood-prone area or near a body of water, it’s essential to consider obtaining separate flood insurance. Here are some key points to keep in mind: National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): The NFIP is a federal program that offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and businesses. If you live in a participating community, you can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP. Coverage Limits: Flood insurance policies generally have specific coverage limits for both the structure and personal property. It’s important to review these limits to ensure they meet your needs. Waiting Period: Most flood insurance policies have a waiting period of 30 days before coverage takes effect. Be sure to plan ahead and secure your policy well in advance of any potential flooding. Understand Your Risk: Even if you don’t live in a high-risk flood zone, floods can occur anywhere. Consider your risk level and discuss flood insurance options with your insurance agent. Earthquakes: A Different Kind of Risk Earthquake Insurance Explained Like floods, earthquake damage is typically not covered by standard home insurance policies. If you live in an area prone to seismic activity, you may want to consider purchasing earthquake insurance. Here’s what you should know: Separate Policies: Earthquake insurance is usually sold as a separate policy or endorsement to your standard home insurance. Check with your insurer to see what options are available. Coverage Limits and Deductibles: Earthquake insurance policies often come with higher deductibles than standard home insurance. It’s essential to review your policy terms and understand what is and isn’t covered. Types of Coverage: Earthquake insurance typically covers damage to your home’s structure, personal belongings, and additional living expenses if you need to temporarily relocate due to damage. Evaluate Your Risk: If you live in a seismic zone, consider the likelihood of an earthquake and the potential damage it could cause. Investing in earthquake insurance can provide security and financial protection. Hurricanes: Coverage Can Vary Navigating Hurricane Coverage Hurricanes can cause severe damage, so understanding how your home insurance policy handles hurricanes is vital. Here are some key points to consider: Wind Damage Coverage: Most standard home insurance policies cover wind damage caused by hurricanes. This includes damage to your roof, siding, and windows. However, it’s important to review your policy for specific limits and exclusions. Flooding from Hurricanes: While wind damage may be covered, flooding caused by a hurricane is not. If your home is at risk of flooding during a hurricane, you will need a separate flood insurance policy, as mentioned earlier. Hurricane Deductibles: Some states with a high risk of hurricanes may have specific hurricane deductibles. These deductibles can be a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a flat dollar amount. Be sure to understand how your deductible works in the event of a hurricane. Prepare for the Worst: If you live in a hurricane-prone area, consider taking proactive steps to protect your home, such as reinforcing your roof, installing storm shutters, and securing loose outdoor items. Tornadoes: What You Need to Know Tornado Coverage Basics Tornadoes can strike quickly and cause significant damage to homes. Fortunately, most standard home insurance policies cover tornado damage, but there are key considerations: Wind Damage Coverage: Tornadoes are classified as windstorms, so damage from tornadoes is typically covered under most home insurance policies. Debris Removal: Many policies also cover the cost of debris removal after a tornado, which can help you manage cleanup efforts. Additional Living Expenses: If your home is severely damaged and you need to temporarily relocate, your policy may cover additional living expenses, such as hotel stays and food costs. Review Your Policy: As with any natural disaster, it’s important to review your policy to understand your coverage limits and any exclusions that may apply. Wildfires: Coverage Considerations Wildfire Insurance Insights In areas prone to wildfires, homeowners need to be aware of how their insurance policy handles fire damage. Here are some key points: Fire Damage Coverage: Most standard home insurance policies cover fire damage, including damage caused by wildfires. However, the extent of coverage may vary based on your specific policy and location. Risk Assessment: If you live in a high-risk wildfire area, your insurer may assess your property’s risk and adjust your premium accordingly. Homes in fire-prone areas may face higher premiums due to the increased risk. Mitigation Measures: Taking steps to reduce wildfire risk—such as creating defensible space around your home, using fire-resistant materials, and maintaining a well-kept landscape—can help lower your insurance costs and improve your safety. Review Your Policy: As with other natural disasters, be sure to review your policy to understand your coverage for fire damage and any specific exclusions or limitations. Additional Coverage Options Exploring Endorsements and Riders If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, you may want to consider additional coverage options to enhance your protection. Here are some options to explore: Endorsements: Many insurance companies offer endorsements that can be added to your policy to provide additional coverage for specific risks, such as earthquakes or floods. Riders: Riders are similar to endorsements and can provide additional coverage for personal belongings or specific types of damage. For example, you might consider a rider for valuable items like jewelry or art that may not be fully covered under a standard policy. Comprehensive Coverage: Some insurers offer comprehensive policies that provide broader coverage for natural disasters and other perils. Be sure to discuss your options with your insurance agent to find a policy that meets your needs. Stay Informed: Regularly review your coverage and stay informed about changes in your area’s risk of natural disasters. This will help you make informed decisions about your insurance needs. Preparing for Natural Disasters Act Before Disaster Strikes Preparation is key when it comes to natural disasters. Here are some proactive steps you can take to protect your home and belongings: 1. Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that outlines how to respond in the event of a natural disaster. Ensure everyone in your household knows what to do and where to go. 2. Inventory Your Belongings: Keep a detailed inventory of your home’s contents, including photos and receipts. This will help expedite the claims process if you need to file a claim for damaged or lost items. 3. Secure Important Documents: Store important documents, such as insurance policies, identification, and financial records, in a safe place. Consider keeping digital copies in a secure cloud storage service. 4. Stay Informed: Stay informed about weather forecasts and potential natural disasters in your area. Sign up for local alerts and warnings to stay updated on any imminent threats. Understanding whether natural disasters are covered by your home insurance policy is crucial for protecting your property. While standard policies cover many perils, specific disasters like floods and earthquakes often require additional coverage. By familiarizing yourself with your policy, exploring endorsements, and taking proactive steps, you can ensure that you’re adequately protected against the unexpected. Home insurance is not just a policy; it’s a vital safety net that provides security during uncertain times. By proactively addressing your coverage needs and staying informed about natural disaster risks, you can feel confident in your ability to protect your home and loved ones. Remember, preparation is key, and having the right insurance in place can make all the difference when disaster strikes. Your home is your sanctuary, and with the right coverage, you can safeguard it against life’s unpredictable moments.

Agostinelli Teller & Ryan Insurance, AT&R Insurance, Ashland MA Insurance, Ashland Insurance, Massachusetts Insurance, Auto Insurance Ashland, Home Insurance Ashland, Business Insurance Ashland, Insurance Agency Ashland, Insurance Coverage Massachusetts, Auto insurance premiums, insurance cost factors, driving history impact, vehicle insurance rates, auto coverage options, deductible and premium, credit score insurance, location and insurance, car insurance discounts, safe driver savings, multi-policy discount, good student discount, low mileage insurance, insurance risk assessment, premium calculation process, car insurance tips, lowering insurance costs, choosing coverage wisely, high vs low deductible, vehicle safety ratings, accident risk factors, policy review benefits, insurance savings strategies, understanding auto premiums, tailored insurance coverage

Agostinelli Teller & Ryan Insurance, AT&R Insurance, Ashland MA Insurance, Ashland Insurance, Massachusetts Insurance, Auto Insurance Ashland, Home Insurance Ashland, Business Insurance Ashland, Insurance Agency Ashland, Insurance Coverage Massachusetts, social media presence, brand awareness, customer engagement, website traffic, search engines, competitive advantage, cost-effective marketing, digital age, targeted advertising, active users, loyal following, online community, customer retention, valuable feedback, increased conversions, SEO improvement, social media platforms, industry leader, traditional marketing, content creation, targeted ads, audience engagement, brand visibility, online branding, business growth, business insurance, commercial insurance, small business coverage, business liability, risk management

Agostinelli, Teller & Ryan Insurance, Ryan Insurance, Teller Insurance, Insurance in Ashland, Ashland, MA, Ashland MA, MA, Winterize, frozen pipes, plumbing tips, protect pipes, pipe prevention, winter guide, pipe insulation, drain faucets, prevent bursts, energy savings, repair prevention, sprinkler winterizing, seal drafts, winter safety, pipe winterizing, leak detectors, winter maintenance, thermostat settings, irrigation care, outdoor faucets,