tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79390871579550266912024-02-19T00:36:50.574-08:00Home Services BlogHome Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-61270772995352543512011-11-21T04:58:00.001-08:002011-11-21T04:58:55.415-08:00Happy Monday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl_EN_S4KJuE0GqAtfhg7hon1zwA-fNES3uQTgmFz-8zZqP1cDZVua0XU18SadhpLUsvfGzV_bqNSfrxa11Ac7UocUMdnRaVeDXw2U_ac7f50IUynV1ikqGLos-cKYgLRKteJbhkIO0oq/s1600/HAPPY-MONDAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQl_EN_S4KJuE0GqAtfhg7hon1zwA-fNES3uQTgmFz-8zZqP1cDZVua0XU18SadhpLUsvfGzV_bqNSfrxa11Ac7UocUMdnRaVeDXw2U_ac7f50IUynV1ikqGLos-cKYgLRKteJbhkIO0oq/s320/HAPPY-MONDAY.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-78280025582739061832011-11-18T05:28:00.000-08:002011-11-18T05:28:18.168-08:00Solar Energy ExpansionSolar energy is becoming an increasingly popular solution for US homes and industry. While other sectors have suffered in this economy, solar is continuing to grow and expand its market. And since the technology is becoming more sophisticated, this expansion is not surprising. For some information about how much it is expanding, here is a some info from onlinetes.com:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">Solar system prices are becoming far more competitively priced as the consumer and business demand for solar power soars. It’s safe to say the solar industry is just heating up in the United States.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Today, the solar industry is one of the few bright spots in the U.S. economy. Last year, the industry grew an astounding 69%, making it one of the fastest growing sectors in the nation as noted by the Solar Energy Industries Association. In the last two years, the number of Americans working in the solar industry has doubled to more than 100,000 employed. </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Solar energy has become cost-competitive with grid-supplied electricity, helping to positively impact our domestic energy supply and the U.S. economy as a whole. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of new jobs are being created across the country. Chapel Hill’s own Strata Solar LLC is doing its part locally by creating jobs for over 60 construction and installation workers and engineers through a variety of state-wide, utility-scale solar projects just this year. Strata has installed 10MW of solar energy systems across the state this year, and forecasts an astounding 30 megawatts and an even stronger hire rate in 2012.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"> “Americans are beginning to adopt renewable energy in their own personal savings and are seeing the value it creates for our economy,” says Markus Wilhelm, CEO, Strata Solar. “The solar industry will no doubt continue to progress and remain significant to the growth of our country going forward.”</blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, click <a href="http://www.onlinetes.com/renewable-solar-energy-manufacturing-United-States-tes-111811.aspx">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-34822068321723395562011-11-17T05:22:00.000-08:002011-11-17T05:22:01.855-08:00Energy Efficient WindowsOne of the most important ways to make your home more energy efficient is to upgrade your windows. Energy Star rated windows will make sure that the warm, heated air will stay inside this winter instead of leaking to the outside. There are some additional benefits to Energy Star windows though, here are a few more from <a href="http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=windows_doors.pr_benefits">EnergyStar.gov</a>:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">Get Comfortable</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Comfort. It’s the essential quality of home. ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors, and skylights do more than just lower energy bills — they deliver comfort that other products just can’t match.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">PROTECTION FROM WINTER CHILLS</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">On cold winter nights, do you avoid seats near the window? The cold, inside surface of an inefficient window pulls heat away from your body, so you can feel chilly in a sweater with the thermostat at 70 degrees. With ENERGY STAR qualified windows, the interior glass stays warmer, so you can enjoy your window seat even when the temperature outside dips well below freezing.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">SHIELDING FROM SUMMER HEAT</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Do some of your rooms feel like a sauna in the summer? A standard double-pane window allows approximately 75 percent of the sun’s heat into your home.1 With ENERGY STAR qualified windows you can stay cool all summer long. Most ENERGY STAR qualified windows reduce the “heat gain” into your home more than typical windows do, without reducing the visible light. You get the light you need without the uncomfortable heat.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">1 Source: Residential Windows. Carmody, Selkowitz, Arasteh, and Heschong. 2007.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Protect Your Valuables</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Drapes, wood floors, a favorite photograph: all these things can fade or discolor after repeated exposure to direct sunlight. Whether their value is monetary or sentimental, you want to protect your belongings from fading and discoloring.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">ENERGY STAR qualified windows have coatings that keep out the summer heat and act like sunscreen for your house, protecting your valuables from harmful, fading ultraviolet light without noticeably reducing visible light. These special coatings reduce fading by up to 75 percent.1</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">1 Source: Residential Windows. Carmody, Selkowitz, Arasteh, and Heschong. 2007.</blockquote></blockquote><br />
For more information, visit the <a href="http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=windows_doors.pr_benefits">Energy Star website</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-19612974007932530662011-11-16T05:09:00.000-08:002011-11-16T05:09:07.228-08:00How Forced Air Heating WorksYou have probably heard the term forced air heating before, but do you really know how it works? Forced air heating is a very popular heating method that is used throughout the country. Here is an explanation from a <a href="http://www.airnationalhouston.com/blog/heating/what-is-forced-air-heating-a-question-from-katy/">Houston heating contractor</a> of how it works:<div><blockquote>The truth is that a forced air heating system is simply a heating system that distributes heat throughout your house using air to carry it. In this type of system, heated air travels through a system of ducts and is expelled through vents into the different rooms and areas of your home in order to maintain a particular temperature. That temperature, of course, is whatever you set your thermostat to, and when the desired temperature is reached, the heat will shut off until the temperature drops down again.</blockquote><blockquote>Many forced air heating systems are remarkably energy efficient and can effectively keep you home comfortable all winter long. Additionally, they are generally made to be incorporated with central air conditioning systems for year round temperature control. Heat pumps are especially convenient in this way, as they’re able to both heat and cool your home depending on the season and your home comfort needs.</blockquote>For more information, check out the <a href="http://www.airnationalhouston.com/blog/heating/what-is-forced-air-heating-a-question-from-katy/">full article</a>. </div>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-73444203457298783752011-11-15T05:07:00.000-08:002011-11-15T05:07:42.095-08:00Heating Cost by Fuel TypeHave you ever wondered exactly how much it would cost to use another heating source? For instance, would it be worth the initial expense to change for oil to gas? Or maybe it would be better to switch to a pellet stove? In order to answer these questions, an article on <a href="http://www.inspectapedia.com/heat/Current_Heating_Cost_Table.htm">InspectAPedia</a> has developed a table that compares the average cost of various fuel types:<br />
<br />
<br />
<table border="2" bordercolor="#333333" cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><tbody>
<tr><th colspan="5" scope="col">Table 1 - January 2009 Comparison of Current Energy Costs per BTU for<br />
Heating Oil, Natural Gas, Firewood, Pellet Stove Fuel, Propane, Coal</th></tr>
<tr><th scope="col" width="119">Heating Fuel</th><th scope="col" width="77">Heat Content in BTUs</th><th scope="col" width="117"><div align="CENTER">Unit Cost<br />
</div></th><th scope="col" width="125"><div align="CENTER">Cost / 1000 BTUs</div></th><th scope="col" width="241">Notes on Formulas & Fuels</th></tr>
<tr><th scope="row"><div align="LEFT">Home Heating Oil</div></th><td>140,000 BTUs/Gal<br />
<span>HC = 140</span></td><td><div align="CENTER">$2.00/gal<br />
<span><br />
UC = 2.00</span></div></td><td><div align="CENTER">1.42 cents</div></td><td>Price varies by time, season, economy, locale</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row"><div align="LEFT">Natural Gas</div></th><td>1029 BTUs/Cu. Ft.<br />
<span>HC = 1.029</span></td><td><div align="CENTER">$7.00/1000 Cu. ft.<br />
<span>UC = 0.7</span></div></td><td><div align="CENTER">0.68 cents</div></td><td>Price varies by time, season, economy, locale.</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row">Firewood</th><td>150,000 BTUs/Cu. ft.<br />
<span>HC = 150</span></td><td>$75/face cord<br />
<span><br />
UC = 6.46/Cu. ft.</span></td><td><div align="CENTER">4.30 cents</div></td><td>BTUs vary by wood type, condition, design of wood heater. A face cord is 4' x 8' x 16" of wood tightly stacked = 42.6 cu. ft.<br />
About $50./face cord in Dec 2008 in MN<br />
A full cord 4' x 4' x 8' = 128 Cu. ft.<br />
about $150. in Dec 2008 in MN, more in NYC</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row">Electricity</th><td>3413 BTUs / KWH<br />
<span>HC = 3.413</span></td><td>$0.11/KWH<br />
<span><br />
UC = 0.11</span></td><td><div align="CENTER">3.22 cents</div></td><td>1 KWH = 3413 BTUs.<br />
Cost/1000 BTUs = $0.11 / 3.413 = .032258</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row">Propane</th><td> </td><td> </td><td> </td><td>in process</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row">Pellet Stove Fuel</th><td>8200 BTUs/pound<br />
<span>HC = 8.2</span></td><td>$225 / Ton</td><td>1.4 cents</td><td>$225. per ton of pellet fuel, 70% efficient. 50 40-pound bags per ton, or 60 40-pound bags per skid. One bag of pellet fuel burns for 24 hours in a typical pellet stove. $225 / 2000 (pounds per ton) = 11.25 cents / pound. .1125 / 8.2 = .0137</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row">Coal</th><td> </td><td> </td><td> </td><td>In process<br />
Assuming xx-sized coal for use in coal stoves used as interior heat source, not coal fired furnaces or boilers which use pea coal.</td></tr>
<tr><th scope="row"><div align="LEFT">Formulas Used [1]</div></th><td><div align="CENTER">HC</div></td><td><div align="CENTER"><strong>UC</strong></div></td><td><div align="CENTER">(UC / HC)<br />
* 100</div></td><td><u><strong><span>Unit Cost (UC)__ </span></strong></u><span>x 100 = Heat Cost per 1000 BTUs<br />
Heat Content (HC)</span><br />
See notes above for specific fuels.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
For the full article and methodology, visit the <a href="http://www.inspectapedia.com/heat/Current_Heating_Cost_Table.htm">website</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-13878424146928420172011-11-14T05:06:00.000-08:002011-11-14T05:06:52.488-08:00Space Heater SafetySpace heaters are a good way to supplement your main home heating system, but they can be dangerous if not utilized properly. The main thing to remember about space heaters is to only use them occasionally and to keep them away from anything flammable. <a href="http://www.wlox.com/story/16029122/fire-officials-urge-safety-for-heating-homes">WOLX</a> had some other good suggestions:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"You have the weather coming in, and most people haven't thought about their heating devices, whatever it may be. The space heaters, or the regular heating in the house, or the fireplaces. And they haven't done the maintenance that we suggest that they do," Harrison County Fire Marshal Pat Sullivan said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Though that maintenance may seem tedious to some, it could very well save your life.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">"Those kinds of things can cause fires. If the wires are frayed on your space heaters, if you put the space heaters too close to other things it could burn, such as clothing or wood. Those things, those common sense things. Just get everything away from your space heater," Sullivan said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Making sure all the elements in the device are working is also a good idea. If you've had a space heater for several years, it might be a good idea to replace it. Still, it's not all about space heaters.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">"Using extension cords for the space heaters, using extension cords anywhere in the house is not recommended. Short term, for a few minutes, use it and then unplug it. But to leave it on all the time and use it for your heating devices, that's dangerous," Sullivan said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Naturally, you'll want to be comfortable and warm in the frigid temperatures. Just remember that safety is of the utmost importance.</blockquote>For the full article and some more safety tips, click <a href="http://www.wlox.com/story/16029122/fire-officials-urge-safety-for-heating-homes">here</a>. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"> </blockquote>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-21600823361208031802011-11-11T04:59:00.000-08:002011-11-11T04:59:38.597-08:00Are You Switching to Wood?Many Americans are turning to wood to heat their homes because of rising gas and oil fuel cost. However, many older wood stoves and fireplaces emit a lot of pollution into the air, as well as heating your home inefficiently. If you are choosing the burn wood, it is best to look into a newer wood or pellet stove that is EPA ceritified. An article in the <a href="http://tucsoncitizen.com/usa-today-news/2011/11/10/more-homes-heat-with-wood-raising-pollution-risks/">Tuscon Citizen</a> talks about this new trend:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">“The access to cheap wood made a difference,” says Walton, a carpenter who lives on heavily forested land in Keene, N.H., where he chops his own fallen or dead trees.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“It saves us a bundle,” he says, adding his wood stove can manage all winter with just two cords because he added insulation and good windows to his tidy, 1,300-square-foot home.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">As energy prices rise, and winter approaches, more Americans are turning to wood to heat their homes, some hurrying to cash in on tax credits for efficient stoves that expire next month.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">This upswing is prompting federal officials, concerned about the health and environmental impact of burning wood, to update 23-year-old certification criteria for stoves and set the first requirements for outdoor wood boilers, which heat water that’s piped into homes.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“We are not in the business of telling people how to heat their homes,” says Alison Davis of the Environmental Protection Agency, which plans to propose the new rules next year. But if they want to burn wood, Davis urges them to buy an EPA-certified stove and operate it properly so no smoke gets inside the house.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">She says boilers are “significantly more polluting” than wood or pellet stoves because they have short stacks and use 10 times as much wood. Even so, she says those meeting the EPA’s 2007 voluntary standards are 90% cleaner than older ones. “The technology has improved for wood stoves,” Davis says, as has the research on the dangers of wood burning.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wood heating’s upswing</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">The number of U.S. households heating with wood rose 34% nationwide from 1.8 million in 2000 to 2.4 million in 2010 — faster than any other heating fuel, according to Census data.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“We’re seeing a rise mainly in states with high oil and gas prices,” most notably in Michigan and Connecticut, says John Ackerly of the Alliance for Green Heat, a nonprofit group that promotes wood stoves.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“It’s a combination of rising energy prices and the economic downturn,” he says, adding low- and middle-income households are much more likely than others to use wood for primary heating. In rural areas, he says many cut their own wood and in the suburbs, they get it free when trees fall.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">He expects wood will become more popular this winter, citing the projected rise in household heating costs. Compared to last winter, heating will cost 3% more with natural gas and 8% more with oil this year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Retailers are gearing up. U.S. shipments of pellet stoves, considered the most efficient way to burn wood, jumped 59% in the second quarter of this year, compared to the same time last year, and pellet fireplace inserts rose 72%, according to Leslie Wheeler of the the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association, an industry group.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“We’re expecting those numbers to continue to increase,” Wheeler says, because of high fuel prices. She says the tax credits expiring this year — up to $300 for EPA-certified stoves — are not as generous as in 2009 and 2010 when they covered 30% of the cost, up to $1,500. She says many cost $3,000 to $4,000 with installation.</blockquote></blockquote>For more info, you can read the full article <a href="http://tucsoncitizen.com/usa-today-news/2011/11/10/more-homes-heat-with-wood-raising-pollution-risks/">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-55328486228465460472011-11-10T06:32:00.000-08:002011-11-10T06:32:00.568-08:00Stephen King Heating Things UpWhile many of us are a fan of Stephen King's writing, we don't know much about him. But with him donating $700,000 to help heat low-income home's in Maine, people are now seeing his charitable side. Here is an article from the <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/jacketcopy/2011/11/stephen-king-plans-to-donate-70000-to-maine-heat-homes.html">LA Times</a> about his donation:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">With federal budget cuts taking a bite out of a charitable fund that helps lower-income Maine residents heat their homes, author Stephen King announced plans Wednesday to help bridge the gap. His Stephen and Tabitha King Charitable Foundation will match up to $70,000 donated to Maine's heating oil fund, with hopes that they can raise $140,000 total.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">King no longer lives year-round in Bangor, Maine, but he returns there and owns three local radio stations that will spread the word about the effort, the Bangor Daily News reports. “We’ll match up to $70,000 of the amount raised,” King said. “This economy is terrible and Tabitha and I both worry so much about Bangor because it truly is a working-class town and we are always looking for ways to help, and right now this is a great need.”</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">King added, “And on top of it the price of fuel continues to rise. The cost goes up, the need goes up and the assistance goes down. That’s the bottom line. That’s what is happening.”</blockquote></blockquote>To read the full article, click <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/jacketcopy/2011/11/stephen-king-plans-to-donate-70000-to-maine-heat-homes.html">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-16519553814968561322011-11-09T06:25:00.000-08:002011-11-10T06:25:17.410-08:00Furnace FiltersWhen you think about home maintenance, many people forget changing their furnace filters. While it is a simple chore, it is easy to overlook. However, changing your furnace filter on a regular basis will improve your home's indoor air quality and help your furnace work more efficiently. To learn more about when to change your furnace filter, check out this article from <a href="http://www.carneyphc.com/">Carney Plumbing, Heating & Cooling</a>:<br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote>Just like the filter in your air conditioner, replacing your furnace filter is the key to a healthy and comfortable Willow Grove home. By keeping a good filter replacement schedule, you will reduce wear and tear to the furnace and keep your home warm, while keeping your family healthy and controlling energy costs all winter.</blockquote><blockquote>But when does your furnace filter need to be changed? Well, each system is different, but there are some general guidelines and recommendations to follow that can help you keep it all straight and stay on top of your furnace filter situation.</blockquote><blockquote>Conventional Wisdom</blockquote><blockquote>The long-standing rule of thumb on furnace filters is to change them every month. This is good practice if you are using older fiberglass filters, but for newer, more efficient filters, you should do it a little differently. These should be inspected and cleaned at least once a month, but you may need to replace them that frequently also.</blockquote><blockquote>Sometimes it is a little more complicated than these general guidelines, so it pays to be aware of some factors and conditions in your home that may affect how frequently you need to change your filter.</blockquote><blockquote>Things to Consider</blockquote><blockquote>As mentioned above, the first thing to consider is the efficiency of the filter. Because new filters are so efficient, when they get dirty or clogged with dust and debris, they actually restrict airflow, making your furnace bog down and work harder. So, it is important to stay on top of a monthly inspection and cleaning schedule with these filters.</blockquote><blockquote>Also take into account air quality and sources of allergens both inside and outside your home. If you live in an area with a lot of pollutants in the air, you’ll want to replace your filters often to keep those out of your home. If you own a lot of pets, the dander and hair will wind up in your furnace filter and you may have to replace it more often.</blockquote><br />
To learn more, visit their <a href="http://www.carneyphc.com/blog/heating/how-often-should-i-replace-my-furnace-filter-a-question-from-willow-grove/">plumbing and heating blog</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-9004928148772682782011-11-08T06:20:00.000-08:002011-11-10T06:20:34.488-08:00Cut Your Heating BillHeating your house can get expensive, so many people look for ways to lower their heating bills. Upgrading your heating system is a good investment; many of today's equipment is much more energy efficient than systems even bought as recently as ten years ago. You can also make sure that you have good insulation, energy efficient windows, and no leaks in your house. If you have done all that and still think your heating bills are too high, an energy audit would be a good choice. A professional could assess your house and give you some new suggestions. In Atlanta, the state require that Georgia power help's homes become more energy efficient:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">ATLANTA -- State regulators require Georgia Power to help its customers improve energy efficiency, so if you make an appointment, they'll send an expert to your home or business to do a lot of the dirty work for you.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Efficiency Expert Rodney Welch says a few quick fixes can cut your bill in half, starting in the attic. "You want to make sure you have at least 10 to 12 inches of attic insulation," he said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Welch said a programmable thermostat prevents you from heating an empty house. He said for optimum efficiency it should be set at 68 degrees in the winter. "Any temperature above 68 will increase the bill anywhere from three to five percent per degree," he said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">On a recent audit of a Craftsman style bungalow in Atlanta, Welch found a lot of ways the homeowner was saving energy but also a few ways she was wasting it. </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">The fireplace damper was open, allowing cold air in, and the stripping was starting to peel away from the front door. Outside, the HVAC unit had some tree branches starting to creep around it.</blockquote></blockquote>To learn more suggestions, check out the full article: <a href="http://www.11alive.com/news/article/211968/3/Cut-your-heating-bill-by-up-to-60-percent-">http://www.11alive.com/news/article/211968/3/Cut-your-heating-bill-by-up-to-60-percent-</a>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-77582995836963031462011-11-07T05:24:00.000-08:002011-11-07T05:24:22.890-08:00Replacing Oil for GeothermalIf you are thinking about upgrading your heating system, geothermal is a good way to go. You will not need to spend money during the year for oil or gas to heat your home, and those savings can really build up over time. Here is an example of one family who decided that upgrading to geothermal was the right choice for their home:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">“We knew we had to replace our old oil heat system, and we were looking around for options,” said Hanson, a retired Duluth, Winnipeg and Pacific Railway clerk. “At first this seemed too expensive. But, when you throw in the rebates and tax incentives, and the fact we’ll never have to buy oil or gas again, it really makes sense for us.”</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Hanson has a bit of a green side as well, and he’s happy to stop burning fossil fuel to heat his home.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">The U.S. Department of Energy says 40 percent of all carbon dioxide emissions in the nation come from burning gas, coal and oil to heat and cool homes and buildings. Heat-pump systems already in place are cutting more than 3 million tons of carbon dioxide each year, the equivalent of taking 650,000 cars and trucks off the road.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">If the term geothermal conjures images of bubbling hot springs in Iceland, that’s only half right. In the Northland, geothermal heat in the ground actually comes from the sun and is stored below the surface in the ground or water.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Hanson’s system uses water from an old well on his lot that’s at a nearly constant 45 degrees as the source of heat energy. While the science is hard to explain, the heat pump transfers energy from that 45-degree water and converts it into 130-degree hot air to heat the house. In the summer, the same system can create cold air to cool the home.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">The basement unit is about the same size as a traditional furnace.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">In Hanson’s open loop system, after the well water is run over coils of antifreeze, the water, about four gallons per minute while it’s operating, is discharged back into the ground to percolate through a gravel field. Closed loop systems use a finite amount of fluid running through large coil systems buried to absorb warmth in the ground. Closed loop systems, buried about 8 feet under the surface, generally require a footprint about twice the size as the main floor of the building, so a larger lot is required.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“This (open loop) type of system was more attractive for us because we didn’t have to tear up the entire yard,” Hanson said.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Hanson’s system, including work to expand his well’s capacity and install a new electric service board in his home, will cost about $20,000. But rebates from Minnesota Power and the state of Minnesota, along with a 30 percent credit for the system off his federal income taxes, will bring the price way down.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">And Hanson will never need to write another check for gas or oil again.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">“The payback is generally about five years compared to a heating oil system or propane, maybe a little more, eight years, for a natural gas system,” said Jeff Aili, estimator and project manager for Summit Mechanical Systems of Duluth that installed Hanson’s system. “Think of it as an investment, and the rate of return is about 20 percent per year. How’s your IRA compare to that?”</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">For Hanson, the new system will eliminate last year’s $1,700 fuel oil bill and trim heating costs to about $550 for this winter, all for electricity. Heat pumps generally use more electricity than traditional systems, although the water-heating savings often help make up that difference. </blockquote></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">Moreover, Hanson’s system will provide cheap central air conditioning in the summer. By a quirk of physical science, many systems actually use less energy in the summer if they are producing cold air for air conditioning, Aili said.</blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, visit the <a href="http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/214043/">Duluth News Tribune</a>. <br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><br />
</blockquote>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-16230521874246462172011-11-01T05:15:00.000-07:002011-11-01T05:15:23.206-07:00Save Money on Your HeatingWith the big storm that hit many in the Northeast, most have had to turn on their heat a little early. And with oil and gas pricing rising, that can be a little expensive. Here are some tips from <a href="http://www.smartmoney.com/spend/family-money/how-to-beat-winter-heating-bills-1320090426399/">Smart Money</a> on how you can cut down on those expensive utility bills:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">For consumers looking to cut costs this winter and beyond, experts recommend looking into financial assistance from the government while it lasts. Federal tax credits worth up to $500 for energy efficiency home improvements, in place most years since '05, may expire at the end of the year, says Ronnie Kweller, a spokeswoman for the Alliance to Save Energy. Eligible projects include new insulation (10% of the cost, up to $500), biomass stoves ($300) and energy-efficient windows (10% of the cost, up to $200) -- so long as the items meet federal guidelines.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">A handful of states also have rebate cash lingering from the "cash for clunker" appliance program of 2010 and more recent initiatives, according to the Department of Energy. Oregon, for example, still offers 70% of the cost for a qualifying gas furnace, up to $2,000. Ohio reimburses 100% of the price for an Energy-Star-qualified gas, oil or propane furnace. The government estimates the more efficient products could cut your energy bill by as much as 15%, to boot.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">It's not too late to shop around for deals on fuel, either, says Gamson. Providers' rates largely depend on when they purchase their fuel supply, so calling around or joining cooperative buying groups that locked in prices months ago could yield a better price.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Consumers can also cut their energy costs by making smaller home improvements , says Dayle Zatlin, a spokeswoman for the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. A home energy audit, available for free in many states, can help pinpoint problems -- including too-thin insulation and drafty areas. Spending as little as $30 for some caulk and sealing kits can cut your energy bill by up to 20%, a savings of as much as $1,000 a year. Actually programming your programmable thermostat so that the house is 10- to 15-degree cooler while you're out at work and asleep can save you up to another 15%, Zatlin says.</blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, click <a href="http://www.smartmoney.com/spend/family-money/how-to-beat-winter-heating-bills-1320090426399/">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-9106311075523246822011-10-31T05:00:00.000-07:002011-10-31T05:01:44.351-07:00Happy Halloween!Happy Halloween Everyone!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/DOtEdhKOMgQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-91801935013832315052011-10-28T05:08:00.000-07:002011-10-28T05:08:21.241-07:00Plumbing BasicsEveryone has plumbing in their house, but most people ignore it until something goes wrong. However, if you know some basic information about your plumbing, you will know some basics on how to take care of it. And if you know how to take care of your plumbing, plumbing disasters will come along a lot less frequently. Here are some basics about plumbing from <a href="http://www.acepelizon.com/blog/">Ace Pelizon</a>:<br />
<blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Fundamental Plumbing</span></blockquote><blockquote>Plumbing is based entirely on the properties of gravity and water pressure. A plumbing system has two basic systems – one that brings water in and one that removes that water once you’ve used it. To bring water into your home, it is pressurized. With enough pressure, it can travel against gravity, rising in the pipes to your fixtures.</blockquote><blockquote>Every fixture in your home has a valve on it that allows you to shut off the flow of water when making repairs or if there is an emergency. If the emergency is big enough, you can turn the main water supply valve off outside your home as well.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Drainage Systems</span></blockquote><blockquote>While the water coming into your home is relatively simple – pressurized cold water goes directly to the fixtures and hot water comes from your hot water heater – the drainage system is slightly more complicated.</blockquote><blockquote>Once water has exited the faucets in your fixtures, it is no longer pressurized so gravity is needed to remove it. Each drain consists of a few basic parts – the flange, tail piece, trap, and drain extension. When you put water down a drain it goes into the trap and flows into the drain extension, eventually to the sewer line.</blockquote><blockquote>The trap is designed to always hold a small amount of water so that sewer gasses cannot back up into your fixtures. Vents are installed in your home as well to ensure there is always air in the plumbing system. That air ensures a vacuum doesn’t generate. If it did, water couldn’t flow out of the house. It’s the same as pouring from a small hole in a can – if you poke a hole in the opposite side, it flows much faster because air enters the can to displace the liquid.</blockquote><br />
For more information about <a href="http://www.acepelizon.com/blog/">plumbing</a>, visit their website.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-16657728543806528342011-10-27T05:13:00.000-07:002011-10-27T05:13:38.898-07:00Americans and Solar HeatingAmericans are becoming more and more energy conscious every year. This is leading to increased interest in alternative energy solutions for residential homes. One of these is solar heating. As almost everybody knows, solar power (and solar heating) uses the sun's rays and converts them into energy. This is very easy to implement in the case of water heaters, which are a large percentage of any home's heating cost. An article from <a href="http://www.earthtechling.com/2011/10/americans-warm-to-solar-water-heating/">Earth Techling</a> explains how Americans are taking advanatage of this technology:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">“Solar heating and cooling technologies” is an umbrella term used to describe solar energy technologies that capture the sun’s heat, providing energy for water and pool heating as well as space heating and cooling. These technologies save homes and businesses money by offsetting the use of electricity, natural gas and home heating fuels. Today, there are enough solar water heating systems installed in the United States to serve 1.5 million homes.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">A recent study by Gotham Research Group, conducted on behalf of the Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA), found that public support for solar water heating remains unsullied by the the bankruptcy of Solyndra (a cutting-edge photovoltaic company, after all). The poll found that three out of four respondents (74 percent) agreed that “the growth of the solar water heating industry will produce jobs and help the American economy.” Positive perceptions of solar water heating systems exceeded negative perceptions by more than 10 to one.</blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, click <a href="http://www.earthtechling.com/2011/10/americans-warm-to-solar-water-heating/">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-9844963492116331942011-10-26T05:26:00.000-07:002011-10-26T05:26:58.360-07:00Fall is here!Happy Fall! How is the foliage where you live? Here is a great picture from <a href="http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/fallfoliage/slideshow/fall_foliage_09.html">Weather.com</a> that really shows how beautiful fall can be!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIUmDeG0MoWgyhLzSaDwixlPwAiuQrErpSIKH9tsPXZmhiOaGqf8MuY-rLx-PPKtB6zRbdSj61TEOggM4JrlQTJSWDsuPGZIsXhB5Th1kfEJtwS73C43xZwboPHUORV23Wydq-lz7MsYL/s1600/fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIUmDeG0MoWgyhLzSaDwixlPwAiuQrErpSIKH9tsPXZmhiOaGqf8MuY-rLx-PPKtB6zRbdSj61TEOggM4JrlQTJSWDsuPGZIsXhB5Th1kfEJtwS73C43xZwboPHUORV23Wydq-lz7MsYL/s320/fall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Taken In Bethlehem, CT By FineArtVideo<br />
The sun shines brilliantly through a panorama of red maples. </blockquote>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-23472343681386810212011-10-25T05:05:00.000-07:002011-10-25T05:05:28.249-07:00Nest ThermostatsNot a lot of us worry about the thermostats in our house. Even if you have a programmable thermostat, only a few homeowners will utilize its full, energy saving potential. But there are lots of savings available if your thermostat is able to adjust your heat accurately; you will save money without having to feel uncomfortable. In order to pursue this end, the Nest Thermostat was developed. Here is some of what it is capable of:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><blockquote class="tr_bq">However, Nest reckons it’s the Learning Thermostat’s intelligence that will be giving you chills, not the temperature. The system observes your normal heating/cooling routines – using movement sensors, humidity and temperature sensors, and proximity control – and can mimic them itself, as well as automatically tweaking the settings when there’s nobody home. That takes about a week, Rogers claims. It can even pull in weather forecasts over WiFi to adjust temperatures automatically based on conditions outdoors: cranking up the aircon if the sun makes an appearance, for instance.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">The Nest Learning Thermostat will go on sale priced at $249 in Best Buy midway through November, and is intended to be easily installed by the home owner (rather than demanding professional help). If that seems a lot for a fancy thermometer, Nest reckons that in a year it will pay for itself: saving 20- to 30-percent of the average $1,000 energy bill for the American home.</blockquote></blockquote>To learn more, check out the full article here: <a href="http://www.slashgear.com/nest-learning-thermostat-makes-heating-ipod-sexy-25190536/">http://www.slashgear.com/nest-learning-thermostat-makes-heating-ipod-sexy-25190536/</a>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-87225357258080518002011-10-24T12:32:00.000-07:002011-10-24T12:32:51.570-07:00Happy MondayA customer’s new, computerized furnace stops working. But each time the technician shows up, it works flawlessly. <br />
<br />
The exasperated technician tells the customer: <br />
<br />
“I had a car just like that. Every time I drove it past the junk yard, it ran just fine”. <br />
<br />
<br />
HVAC tech to homeowner: <br />
<br />
“Your furnace has a few problems. But things could be a lot worse.” <br />
<br />
Somewhat, relieved, the homeowner replies: “Oh, that’s good news.” <br />
<br />
HVAC tech: <br />
<br />
“I know. It could be my furnace instead of yours.” <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And I have no idea how to describe this, but it is definitely worth watching: <a href="http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=02a_1307119966">http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=02a_1307119966</a>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-24573880847890951132011-10-21T05:25:00.000-07:002011-10-21T05:26:13.871-07:00Fall MaintenanceNo one likes to think about maintenance, it often seems like a lot of trouble for no immediate cause. But when your heating system breaks down in the middle of a cold night because you neglected it's fall checkup, you can quickly regret not taking the time to maintain it. Here is some great advice from <a href="http://www.designcomfortco.com/">Design Comfort</a> about fall maintenance:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote>Most heating and cooling contractors offer service or maintenance agreements, which lock in at least one or two visits a year for furnace or air conditioner inspection. It is rare to find a contractor who will schedule a furnace inspection during the cold winter months. They know that time is usually saved for people with real emergencies. If you don’t have a service agreement with a contractor, you may want to consider signing up for one and avoid the risk of waiting in line for a furnace repair in the dead of winter.</blockquote><blockquote>During fall maintenance, your heating equipment will be switched on and inspected. That may sound routine but by running your heating system early, you may be spared the expense of repairing your system when it fails to operate or run smoothly during the cold months. If there is a problem, it is better to fix it ahead of time.</blockquote><blockquote>There is no guarantee that a furnace that is tuned up in the fall will last throughout the winter without needing service. But a little preventive maintenance ahead of time will save a lot of heartache – and dollars – when a real emergency comes up.</blockquote></blockquote><br />
For the full article, visit their <a href="http://www.designcomfortco.com/blog/heating/why-fall-maintenance-is-important-for-your-heating-system-a-tip-from-utah/">website</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-41253741557897164242011-10-19T05:12:00.000-07:002011-10-20T05:12:56.257-07:00High Tech Heat GearIf you want to try something a little different this fall, try purchasing some high tech heat gear instead of cranking up the thermostat. A whole new wave of clothing with heating features is being developed, many of which are very stylish. The <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/19/fashion/19HotClothes.html?adxnnl=1&ref=heating&adxnnlx=1319112191-gIcxOlX4Cwv2b/yw4gTkdQ">New York Times</a> had a great article about it:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote>“In the wintertime, generally people like to warm up more and more, and as a result, people become really bulky,” said Aoi Matsumoto, Uniqlo’s manager for global marketing and communications, explaining how the idea for its Heattech line was born. “We thought we’d like to make people feel comfortable. If we warm up closer to the skin, people can actually enjoy fashion.”</blockquote><blockquote>Uniqlo has sold 100 million Heattech items globally since sales began in 2003. The company started with basic tops and tights, but this year has expanded to leggings, mufflers, hats and, yes, even skinny jeans.</blockquote><blockquote>It is not alone. Brookstone offers its own line of “Cold Weather Gear,” which includes jackets and fleeces with “built-in heating” — basically thin, battery-powered heat bundles that can reach up to 113 degrees and last up to five hours, according to the company Web site. There are also heated sock liners, complete with a battery strap that seems disconcertingly like an ankle bracelet Lindsay Lohan might wear.</blockquote><blockquote>And then there is WarmX, the family-run, Germany-based business that stumbled upon its heating line after “some experimentation with fabrics for the German government,” said Keith McCoy, the company’s distributor for the United States and Canada. Their clothes have silver threads woven into the fabric that, when hooked up to a battery pack, create a current that runs along the threads and into the clothes. “It’s like your whole body is immersed in a warm bath,” Mr. McCoy said.</blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/19/fashion/19HotClothes.html?adxnnl=1&ref=heating&adxnnlx=1319112191-gIcxOlX4Cwv2b/yw4gTkdQ">click here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-87021301674426080442011-10-18T05:22:00.000-07:002011-10-18T05:22:20.366-07:00New Cooling Tower TechnologyWe often wonder if it is better to replace our old systems or get a new one. This is the same for commercial buildings, whose HVAC systems are huge investments that can require a lot of time, money and manpower to replace. But the people in the LAX Airport Center office were grateful that they decided to upgrade their cooling tower. They upgraded to engineered plastic cooling towers from their old galvanized metal towers, which was great for them when the heat wave hit. Here is more info from <a href="http://hvacnews.com/">HVAC News</a>:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>"We felt that a newer type of cooling tower, designed with a shell of engineered plastic, would be more efficient and less maintenance-intensive for the application than simply replacing the old injector system with a new one," McGuire says.</blockquote><blockquote> The engineered plastic cooling tower, innovated by Delta Cooling Towers (Rockaway, NJ), has been used in industrial and commercial applications of many types because of its inherent resistance to corrosives as well as high-efficiency features.</blockquote><blockquote>Because the 5777 West Century Boulevard building was located near Los Angeles International Airport , it was exposed to the corrosive effects of industrial effluents, jet fuels and the nearby Pacific salt air. Those corrosive effects as well as prevailing high humidity no doubt were contributing to the increasingly waning performance of the building's old injector cooling tower system. McGuire was convinced that the Delta plastic model would be best for this application.</blockquote><blockquote>"I like the Delta design," he says. "The double-wall plastic shell is impervious to UV light, pH or corrosives, so it's very low in maintenance. The tower operates well in high humidity. The shell has a 15-year warranty, which is unique in the cooling tower industry. Also, I think it's got strong price advantages."</blockquote><blockquote>The model that McGuire recommended was a single, 500-ton Delta TM series cooling tower to replace the old injector tower. The high-efficiency TM Series is an induced draft, counter flow design that is modular, and capable of providing from 250 to over 2,000 cooling tons.</blockquote><blockquote> The cooling tower fan runs off a variable-speed drive, so the fan runs slower, consumes less energy and creates less wear and tear on the motors. In office building applications, the variable-speed fan gradually starts in the morning as the weather warms, typically running at 30 percent until it shuts off in the evening.</blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>For the full article, click <a href="http://news.hvacnews.com/2011/01/new-engineered-plastic-cooling-tower-helps-keep-tenants-fresh-in-broiling-la-heat-wave.html">here</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-86803006878946604852011-10-17T05:15:00.000-07:002011-10-17T05:15:37.395-07:00Radiant HeatingHave you heard of radiant heating? It has been used for centuries to heat house without needing a furnace or air ducts, it warms people and objects directly instead of heating the air around them. Here is what <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radiant_heating">Wikipedia</a> has to say: <br />
<blockquote><blockquote>Radiant heating heats a building through radiant heat, rather than other conventional methods such as radiators (mostly convection heating). The technology has existed since the Roman use of hypocaust heating. Underfloor radiant heating has long been widespread in China and Korea. The heat energy is emitted from a warm element, such as a floor, wall or overhead panel, and warms people and other objects in rooms rather than directly heating the air. The internal air temperature for radiant heated buildings may be lower than for a conventionally heated building to achieve the same level of body comfort, when adjusted so the perceived temperature is actually the same.</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>The radiant heating systems can be divided into:</blockquote><blockquote><ul><li>Underfloor heating systems—electric or hydronic</li>
<li>Wall heating systems</li>
<li>Radiant ceiling panels</li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote>Underfloor and wall heating systems often are called low-temperature systems. Since their heating surface is much larger than with other systems, a much lower temperature is required to achieve the same level of heat transfer. The maximum temperature of the heating surface can vary from 29–35 °C (84–95 °F) depending on the room type. Radiant overhead panels are mostly used in production and warehousing facilities or sports centers; they hang a few meters above the floor and their surface temperature is much higher.</blockquote></blockquote><br />
Do you have radiant heating in your house? Have you ever been in a house that has? Share your experiences!Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-69747531719679267762011-10-14T05:07:00.000-07:002011-10-14T05:07:34.421-07:00Space HeaterSpace heaters are a great way to supplement a main heating system for rooms that are inadequately heated. It can also be a way to zone your heating, only have space heaters for rooms that need to warmer than the rest of the house. However, safety is an important concern for space heaters, the government estimates that more than 25,000 fires each year are associated with their use! With that frightening statistic, it is important to understand some of the safety precautions you can take. Here are some guidelines from <a href="http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/index.cfm/mytopic=12600">Energy Savers</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><blockquote>Only purchase newer model heaters that have all of the current safety features. Make sure the heater has the Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) label attached to it.</blockquote><blockquote>Choose a thermostatically controlled heaters, since they avoid the energy waste of overheating a room.</blockquote><blockquote>Select a heater of the proper size for the room you wish to heat. Do not purchase oversized heaters. Most heaters come with a general sizing table.</blockquote><blockquote>Locate the heater on a level surface away from foot traffic. Be especially careful to keep children and pets away from the heater.</blockquote></blockquote>For more information about space heater safety, check out more the Energy Saver's <a href="http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/index.cfm/mytopic=12600">website</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-83522258751441037942011-10-13T04:59:00.000-07:002011-10-14T04:59:24.580-07:00Solar Heating SavingsAs we mentioned a few days ago, solar heating is a new trend that can save you a lot of money. You simply capture the radiation from the sun and use it to heat water to use in your house. Here are some great statistics from <a href="http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5hqSNBqoDAHuXvKd93NQApOsfE42A?docId=N0036541318430565325A">The Press Association</a> on how much money it can save you:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote>Solar water-heating systems can provide as much as 60% of a home's hot water if they are properly installed and used, research into the technology has shown.</blockquote><blockquote>On average, the systems provide 39% of a household's hot water, a study of 88 homes which had solar thermal panels installed found, but there was a wide variation in how well they performed.</blockquote><blockquote>While the best systems were able to deliver 60% of the hot water demands of the home, some were providing as little as 9%, the study for the Energy Saving Trust said.</blockquote><blockquote>With most solar hot water systems retro-fitted into existing homes and heating units, good quality installation and insulation, for example of hot water tanks, was key to delivering a high performance.</blockquote><blockquote>And the way people use their hot water will also affect how much benefit they get from the technology.</blockquote><blockquote>For more information about how solar water heating can help you (and how to utilize it efficiently), check out the <a href="http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5hqSNBqoDAHuXvKd93NQApOsfE42A?docId=N0036541318430565325A">full article</a>. </blockquote></blockquote>Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7939087157955026691.post-54440040060952483532011-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:002011-10-12T10:35:06.610-07:00Energy Saving the Easy WayWe are all looking for ways to cut down on our energy bills and save some money this fall. Actually, there are quite a few simple chores you can do to make your house more energy efficient and save you money on your utility bills. I promise that you can perform almost all of these energy saving tips yourself, and you will very grateful for the added heat (and the lower bills) when winter really sets in. Here is a list from <a href="http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2C+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Home+Heating&L3=Home+Heating+Consumer+Assistance&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_pub_info_winter_heating&csid=Eoeea">mass.gov</a>:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Windows and Doors</span></blockquote><blockquote>Repair broken or cracked glass and putty older windows; check to see that windows close properly and window locks pull sashes together.</blockquote><blockquote>Make sure doors close properly; repair or replace non-working doorknobs, latches and striker plates.</blockquote><blockquote>Weatherstrip windows, doors and attic accesses; caulk the frames around windows and doors from the inside using a clear, pliable caulk.</blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Other Air Leaks</span></blockquote><blockquote>If you have a fireplace, be sure it is fitted with a tight sealing damper that is closed when the fireplace is not in use. If the fireplace is used infrequently, use a chimney block to eliminate heat loss.</blockquote><blockquote>Caulk foundation cracks and openings. Make sure kitchen and bathroom vent dampers close properly.</blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Lights and Hot Water</span></blockquote><blockquote>Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient fluorescent lights. Over its lifetime, a fluorescent bulb will save $30 - $50. Look for rebates from utilities to save you even more. Today's new compact fluorescent bulbs perform even better than the models of a few years ago.</blockquote><blockquote>Install low flow showerheads and faucet aerators to save energy and water.</blockquote><blockquote>Reduce your hot water heater temperature to 120°.</blockquote><blockquote>Repair leaking hot water faucets, tanks and pipes.</blockquote></blockquote>All of these tips are easy to do and they make sense, why waste money heating air that escapes outside? For more information, check out the <a href="http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=eoeeaterminal&L=4&L0=Home&L1=Energy%2C+Utilities+%26+Clean+Technologies&L2=Home+Heating&L3=Home+Heating+Consumer+Assistance&sid=Eoeea&b=terminalcontent&f=doer_pub_info_winter_heating&csid=Eoeea">Massachusetts State website</a>.Home Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07156257798204557103noreply@blogger.com0