There was an article yesterday in the Cape Cod Times about Cape Codders who signed up for oil heat while the rate was at its zenith late this past summer and now regret that decision. Here at Chez Sven we were fortunate to have avoided being locked into a contract because of a credit, accumulated due to closing down for renovation a year ago. For innkeepers in economic hard times, heating is a definite concern. How much does one heat an inn? Should the temperature reflect personal preferences or be adjusted on a case by case basis? I have discovered that guests have varying temperature preferences, making it impossible to please everyone. This is not a problem for our Seagull Cottage guests, as stated in yesterday’s blog. They can program their own heat, using the thermostat, and do. Our Green Room also has its own thermostat. Sven prefers cooler indoor temperatures, and, over the years, I have learned to turn the heat down. I would like to suggest that in these tough economic times, turning down the heat might be a good idea for everyone, both at home and during holiday. People need to learn to wear sweaters, the new green fashion statement. Designers should stop showing skimpy clothing for fall, winter and spring. I advise guests who like hot rooms not to book Liberty Coin Suite in winter. This magnificent space was once a loft and has no heat, although we did install good insulation a few years back. We provide warm duvets and wool blankets.
There is also an electric radiator, which can be turned on if necessary. It is old and sturdy. “The Incredible Heat Machine” by DeLonghi was probably NOT made in China. I make this offhand guess because the newer electric Holmes heaters, which we have had over the years for the cottage bedroom, have all broken, one after the other. Just this weekend we discovered the latest purchase no longer worked and carted it off to the dump. And yes, the radiator was Made in China. I have gotten so I truly dislike goods from China. Unfortunately, almost everything is now imported from that Asian country. The American media needs to turn up the heat on this problem. Shoddy goods mean replacing objects more frequently, bad for the wallet and the environment …
