Blog / Make Your Home More Energy EfficientHeating & Cooling Service ChecklistImportant Information All Homeowners Should KnowHomeowner Plumbing TipsEnergy Efficient Guide to Heating & CoolingMaximize Your Home ComfortThe Cost of a Leak7 Home Repairs You Don’t Want to Ignore!Homeowner Tips for Your Cooling SystemCommon Air Conditioner ProblemsSummer Plumbing TipsShop Smart - Find Rebates and Other IncentivesHumidity – a major factor in indoor home comfort!Why do I need to Change My Air Filter and How do I do it?Signs That You Should Call a Professional PlumberGet the Most Out of Your Air Conditioning System this SummerSpring Plumbing TipsHow Your A/C Works . . .Water Meters, An Important Ally in Leak DetectionIs the Air in Your Home Healthy?Low Water Pressure CausesWhat Does An Air Conditioning Tune-Up Actually Do?Garbage Disposal TipsLandscaping Do’s and Don’tsHeating & Cooling Service ChecklistThe True Value of HVAC CareDo you have water damage in your home?Duct Cleaning – MoistureDuct Cleaning – Dirt, Dust and & Other ContaminantsEnergy Saving TipsAdvantages of a Programmable ThermostatCSI (“Comfort Service Investigators”)Fix that Leak!GE Hybrid GeoSpringHome Energy Myths Busted!Bathroom Water Damage Prevention TipsValue of Maintenance AgreementsMoney, Energy and Time Saving WebsitesEasy Water Heater MaintenanceMaximizing Your Hot Water HeaterDryer Vent SafetyPreventative Drain MaintenanceIncrease Efficiency and Reduce Use of Your Air ConditioningBe Prepared – Plumbing Service CallsWater Conservation and Heating TipsInstant Hot Water and Energy SavingsConducting Your Own Energy AuditDo I have Mold Growing in My Home?Heating System Replacement and Money-Saving TipsWater & Energy Saving Tips

Making your home more energy efficient can save you money while helping conserve natural resources. Most of us are willing to perform energy efficient practices we just don’t always know which ones can actually make the biggest difference. Below is a list of problem areas around your home and solutions that can have a huge affect on the energy efficiency of your home.

• Lack of maintenance on your cooling system. If you are not having your cooling system maintained and cleaned by a professional at least once a year you are wasting energy. Your system can work up to 40% less efficiently when it is not serviced. This not only wastes energy, but also costs you more in higher utility bills.
   
• Cooling costs are wasted by drafts at door and windows. Apply weather stripping or replace weather stripping that is worn out. If you cannot weather strip for whatever reason, at least try to block off the drafts as best you can. Heavy drapes at all windows and the patio door can help. Also blockers such as the bean bag snakes at the bottom of outside doors.
   
• Programmable thermostats are a good investment. These can be programmed to adjust the temperature setting in your home to conserve energy when you are asleep or away from home. Then, before you return home, they adjust the setting again to make sure that when you arrive back home you arrive to comfortable temperatures.
   
• Replace standard bulbs with fluorescent ones. Although these are more expensive than regular ones, they use less energy and last longer, so over time they will more than pay for themselves.
   
• Water heaters in most homes are set too high. This is not only unnecessary, but can pose a hazard in homes where there are young children. Having tap water delivered that is scalding hot wastes energy – twice. First, the energy needed to bring the water to temperature is wasted, because it is too hot. Then, before it can be used for baths or showers, cold water has to be added to cool it down. Although some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140ºF, most households only require them set at 120ºF.
   
• Check your attic insulation, especially if you have an older home. Insulation products of today have greatly improved over what they were 20 to 30 years ago. You should check to see not only what type of insulation is present but also how much there is. If it is not adequate, replace or supplement it.
   
• How you use your energy is also important. Turn lights off when you are leaving a room, whether you are going out of the room or leaving for the evening. Don’t run partial loads of dishes or clothing. Skip the preheat cycle on the oven, except where food requires it. During hot weather, use fans for additional cooling.

You can help the technician accurately and quickly diagnose your heating and/or cooling unit’s problem by having some crucial information handy.  When the service technician arrives at your home you should be prepared to provide certain important facts to him/her.  You know the “behavior” of your heating and cooling unit better than anyone else.  Remember, no fact is insignificant and it may help your technician diagnose and fix the problem.

Be prepared to provide your technician with the following information:

• Installation records – very valuable information your technician would not be able to get on his/her own!
• The age of your air conditioner or heat pump.
• Service records - When your unit was last serviced and who last serviced it.
• When the filters were last changed.
• Did you check your circuit breakers to make sure none were “tripped”?
• When you first noticed that the unit was not working properly.
• Was it making any unusual noises?
• Are there any unusual odors?
• Was there any unusual weather activity before the equipment acted up?
• If you saw unusual fluids or leakage around the unit.

By providing detailed information you’ll speed up the diagnosis and service to your equipment, and will be able to return your home to a comfortable level faster!

We all try to take care of our homes as best we can, but most of us are not experts in home repair and maintenance. Busy lives and schedules make it all too easy to neglect certain areas of our homes. Unfortunately, neglect can lead to increased repair, decreased efficiency of appliances, and in some circumstances, life-threatening situations.

Below is a list of important information all homeowners should know:

• NEVER store flammables close to your furnace, boiler or water heater, especially one with a standing pilot light. Basements or utility rooms tend to be where we store a lot of our stuff, but if it comes in contact with heat or flames it could be a very dangerous situation. Rule of thumb, keep a wide path around combustion appliances.
   
• Furnace filters should ideally be changed every other month, or monthly during high use seasons (summer & winter). Filters need to be changed on a regular basis to insure efficient and safe operation of your equipment, nonetheless, technicians routinely encounter furnaces in which filters have not been changed in years.
  
  
• According to Energy Star, a division of the EPA, 20 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. The result is higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set. Make sure that the connections at vents and registers are well sealed where they meet the floors, walls, and ceiling. These are common locations to find leaks and disconnected ductwork.
  
  
• According to the National Fire Protection Association (between 2003-2006) more than 66 percent of home fire deaths occurred in homes without a working smoke alarm. Studies show that one working smoke alarm can reduce your chances of dying in a home fire by almost 50%. In this same study, a quarter to one-third of smoke alarms in homes didn’t work due to dead or missing batteries. Inspect and install new batteries once a year, pick a significant date that you will remember (i.e. daylight savings, birthday, anniversary).
   
• Water pressure enters your home at about 40-60 pounds per square inch. That’s enough to cause weak piping joints to burst. If you notice a noisy condition, known as water hammer, or your water pressure seems too high, things probably aren’t right in your plumbing system and you need to call a plumber.
   
• One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your water heater is to drain and refill it once a year. Sediment will build up in your tank and in turn decreases the life of your water heater. The build up of sediment in your tank leads to corrosion, which eventually rusts the bottom of your water heater out. Flushing this sediment once per year, also improves the efficiency of your hot water heater, saving you money.
  
  
• Any water heater without a working temperature and pressure relief valve is a time bomb waiting to explode. Schedule water heater maintenance once a year to prevent this dangerous situation.
   
• Corrosive drain cleaners, such as those sold on supermarket shelves, frequently cause injury to plumbers or homeowners when they open up pipes or sink traps to do repairs. Non-corrosive drain cleaners are a much better choice. Check with your plumber for options on environmentally safe drain cleaners.
   
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters are simple, inexpensive devices that need to be installed in bathroom outlets or any outlets near water. This is a necessary, inexpensive safety feature in any home. If you’re comfortable you can install them yourself, if not, call an electrician.
   
• More and more homes are installing carbon monoxide detectors, which is good! However, many are installed near CO-emitting appliances, and they need to be installed near bedrooms. The biggest risk from CO occurs when people are sleeping.
   
• A programmable (or setback) thermostat is one of the best investments any homeowner can make. These devices can be programmed to adjust your household temperature for maximum comfort when occupants are present, but conserve energy when everyone is away at school and/or work.

 

Sources: www.Energystar.gov
               www.usfa.dhs.gov
               www.nfpa.org

 Homeownership means not only understanding the different systems in your home but also knowing what regular maintenance is necessary to ensure safe, efficient operation of these systems. One of the most important systems in your home is your plumbing. Understanding your plumbing and what maintenance is necessary will save you a lot of time, money and effort in the long run.

Below are some tips that can help you avoid major repairs, help extend life expectancy, and in some cases even reduce energy consumption.

• Most people are astounded at the impact of even tiny leaks in faucets or toilets. Leaks that are barely perceptible to the naked eye can waste thousands of gallons of fresh water a year, costing you hundreds of dollars in excess water bills. (If the leak is hot water, you’ll lose energy dollars as well!) If you have a leak that you know of, get it fixed before all that money goes down the drain. It’s a good idea to have a professional plumber do a complete household check-up to find leaks that escape casual notice.
   
• Your water heater is one of the most important household appliances. Over time sediment builds at the bottom of the heater, which can hamper performance. This sediment if left unchecked, will cause corrosion in the tank that will eventually lead to premature failure of your water heater. You should have a professional plumber check this on an annual basis. During this check the tank should be drained and refilled in order to get rid of this sediment. Your technician should also check the drain valve for signs of leakage, and the anode rods for corrosion.
   
• Also important is a water heater burner inspection. A good way of telling is to check the flame under the water heater. It should appear blue with yellow tips. If it’s mostly yellow or if you see a layer of soot and carbon, the flue ways may be clogged. DO NOT try anything yourself at this point. Call a professional to investigate the situation.
   
• Once a water heater springs a leak in its housing, it is beyond repair and must be replaced. Many units will last 15-20 years or even longer before this happens. (And it always seems to happen at the most inconvenient times, like when the family is coming over for the holidays!) If you have an ancient water heater, it may pay off for you to get it replaced even before it breaks down. Units made in the last 10-15 years have much higher operating efficiencies than older models. Savings in fuel costs often will pay for the new installation in just a few years.
   
• Lawn sprinklers often spring leaks over the winter. If puddles form on your lawn, you probably have seepage in some of the lines.
   
• Check your sump pump to make sure it’s in working order before the heavy spring/summer rains fall. Watch for build-up of sand or other debris in the sump pit. This can jam the pump and burn out its motor. Also, make sure the pump’s discharge pipe is not clogged.
  
  
• Consider getting a battery-operated back-up sump pump if your pump has been overloaded in the past from heavy rains.
   
• Keep rain gutters and downspouts clear of leaves and other debris. Water overflowing from blocked gutters collects around your home’s foundation and seeps into your basement.
   
• If your home is equipped with a flood control device such as an ejector pump, have it checked by your plumbing contractor to make sure it is working properly before the heavy rains hit.

As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills – and on your comfort! Take these steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

• Change your filter regularly. We’re having a very hot summer and our air conditioners are getting a workout! In Florida, we recommend that you change your filters every 30 days. A dirty filter will slow down airflow and make your system work harder to keep you warm or cool, essentially wasting energy. A clean filter will help prevent dust and dirt build-up in the system, which if left unchecked can lead to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
   
• Yearly HVAC maintenance. Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort.
   
• Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs according to Energy Star.
   
• Seal your heating and cooling ducts. Ducts that move air to and from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent – and sometimes much more.
   
• Consider installing high efficiency heating and cooling equipment. If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 year old or not keeping your home comfortable, you should have it looked at by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading, consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the Energy Star rating. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency heating and cooling units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

 

 

Source: www.energystar.gov

Did you know that by adjusting your thermostat a few degrees when you are away from home or in bed at night can save you money in your monthly utility bills? You can save as much as 1% on your utility bills for each degree if the setback period is eight hours long. But there is a certain amount of inconvenience that results from manually controlling the temperature on your thermostat. This includes waking up in a cooler than normal house in the winter and possibly forgetting to adjust the thermostat (during any season) when you leave the house or go to bed.


Installing a programmable thermostat in your home is the easiest way to save money and energy without sacrificing comfort. A programmable thermostat helps make it easy for you to save by regulating your home's temperature in both summer and winter - when you are asleep or away. It’s ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs, according to EnergyStar, a division of the EPA.

The pre-programmed settings that come with programmable thermostats are intended to deliver savings without sacrificing comfort. Depending on your family's schedule, you can see significant savings by sticking with those settings or adjust them as appropriate for your family.

Below is a chart created by EnergyStar that gives you an example of suggested temperature settings for both summer and winter:

Maximize your energy savings without sacrificing comfort when you install a programmable thermostat!

 

Sources: www.energystar.gov

The average family of four uses 600 gallons of water a day, 18,000 gallons of water per month, and approximately 216,000 gallons a year [1&2]. The cost of water varies for U.S. households from state to state and city to city, however, on average Americans spend around $2.00 per 1000 gallons of water, which averages out to around $612 on water and sewage per year [2], plus there is the cost of heating water, on average, an additional $230 per year [3].

American homes waste, on average, more than 10,000 gallons of water every year due to running toilets, dripping faucets or other household leaks [5]. Nationwide, more than 1 trillion gallons of water leak from U.S. homes each year [5]. Homeowners still have to pay for water that is lost through leaking fixtures or pipes, not to mention the energy dollars lost if it is a hot water leak! Even a small drip can waste up to 50-100 gallons of water a week and this small leak can cost you in higher utility bills. You could literally be throwing money down the drain!

You should be aware of signs that you have a leak including a sudden increase in your water bill or a noticeable dampness on your walls or floor. Sometimes, however, you may have a “silent leak” and may not even be aware. Having a plumber come out to your home to perform an audit can help you locate and fix leaks in your home. If you suspect a leak, call a plumber and get it fixed immediately. Leaks cost you money in wasted water, not to mention the potential damage they could cause to your home.

Below is a list of potential areas to look for leaks:

• A leaky pipe is usually pretty obvious. Visually inspect all pipes in your home and look for telltale watermarks on walls or ceilings. In the yard, the ground above the water line may stay wet continuously or water may actually flow on the surface. If a pipe is leaking, have it repaired or replaced.
   
• A leaking faucet is easily identified, but do you know how much water can be wasted from what seems like an insignificant drip? Leaky faucets that drip at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year. What seems like an insignificant, annoying leak that you learn to tune out can add up, wasting a precious natural resource while increasing your water bill.
   
• Leaking toilets are common and can be large sources of water loss. A leaking toilet can waste anywhere from several gallons to more than 100 gallons per day (that’s over a quarter million gallons per year!). Leaking toilets are not as easily identifiable as leaking faucets. The following are clues that you may have a leak:
  
  • If you have to jiggle the handle to make a toilet stop running;
  • If you regularly hear sounds from a toilet that is not being used; or
  • If a toilet periodically turns the water on (runs) for 15 seconds or so without anyone touching the handle.

Even if your toilet does not display any of the above symptoms, it could still be leaking. These “silent leaks” can go undetected for long periods of time, potentially wasting thousands of gallons of water.

Fix leaks right away; don’t wait until they become expensive problems. Fixing a leaking faucet will lower energy bills, lower your water bill and help conserve water for future use. Fix that leak, so you don’t let your water and your money go down the drain.

 

Sources:

[1] Mayer, P.W.; DeOreo, W.B. et al. (1999). "Residential End Uses of Water". American Water Works Association Research Foundation, Denver, CO. Retrieved 2009-02-24.; The study covered 1,188 households in 14 cities over 3 years.

[2] www.Leakbird.com

[3] www.water.org

[4] http://www.mde.state.md.us

[5] www.epa.gov/watersense/

Home ownership is a big investment for most of us. Because it’s expensive many of us put off repairs. Some repairs, however, should not be ignored or delayed because they can lead to even more costly repairs in the future.

Below is a list of repairs you don’t want to ignore:

• Dirty or missing a/c filter. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system. The build-up of dust and dirt leads to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
   
• High utility bills. High utility bills can result from a variety of reasons. A major reason, however, is if you have not had your heating and/or cooling system serviced in a while this will cause your system to run inefficiently, resulting in higher bills. Regular maintenance will help prevent expensive repairs and helps insure that your system is running at its most efficient.
   
• Water Leaks. Slow drips can add up quickly and can cause extensive damage to your home before it’s even noticed. The EPA estimates that more than more than 1 trillion gallons of water leak from homes nationwide each year. That’s over 3,000 gallons for every person in the U.S. every year! Fix leaks as soon as you can.
   
• Flickering Lights. The flickering lights in your house are your home's way of saying that you’ve got an electrical problem. Consider yourself lucky that you're getting such a heads up. Always hire a licensed electrician to evaluate your home and never try to solve the problem yourself. Electricity can be very dangerous.
   
• Dryer vents. Excess lint in your dryer and dryer venting builds up slowly and gradually – you don’t even realize it’s happening. A full load of wet clothes contains about a half gallon of water. Lint is created from the clothes as the water is removed during the drying process. This lint will build up in the crevices deep down inside the lint filter trap, and all along the dryer vent hose. When your lint filter becomes plugged, it restricts the outflow of heated air, which can cause your dryer to become overheated. As a result of this build up, your dryer is the # 1 source of fire in your home. Cleaning the lint filter after each load should be part of your regular maintenance on your dryer.
   
• Flexible gas connectors. If you detect any kind of gas leak in your home, immediately evacuate everyone, call 911 from cell phone or neighbor’s phone and then contact the gas company. Think safety first and then call to get the problem fixed.
   
• Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). A GFCI is an outlet is designed to protect you from electrical shock. If an appliance is working properly, all electricity that the appliance uses will flow from hot to neutral. A GFCI monitors the amount of current flowing from hot to neutral. If there is any imbalance, it trips the circuit. It is able to sense a mismatch as small as 4 or 5 milliamps, and it can react as quickly as one-thirtieth of a second. You should periodically test and reset your GFCIs. If they are not working correctly don’t wait to replace them. This is a safety feature you can’t afford to ignore!

 

Sources: www.energystar.gov
               www.epa.gov
               www.howstuffworks.com

Being an educated homeowner is one of the best ways to maintain value in your home and to keep your home running smoothly and efficiently, especially with regards to your central air conditioning system. As we all know your home is normally one of the single biggest investments you will ever make and your cooling system is one of the most expensive pieces of equipment in your home, so we want to take good care of it.

Preventative maintenance does take some time and may consume some money, but regular maintenance will help avoid major repairs, helps extend life expectancy, and can even reduce energy consumption. Below are some good tips for your heating and cooling system:

• Clean and/or replace filters so that they will be fresh when you turn the air conditioning on for the first time this summer or your furnace in the fall. Dirty filters not only restrict air flow, they can also contribute to equipment breakdown.
   
• One of the most important things you can do to get ready for the heavy summer workout is to clear the area around the outdoor condenser of dirt, leaves and other debris that have accumulated over the winter. Also, periodically throughout the summer check for shrubbery growth around the outside condenser and keep it trimmed.
   
• Check closely for air leaks in ductwork, especially at connection points. Ductwork exposed to outside or attic air must be insulated for additional reduction of heat transfer.
   
• Central air conditioning units should be inspected, cleaned and tuned by a professional technician once a year to extend the life of the unit and cut down on energy consumption.
   

Central air conditioning systems are built pretty rugged to withstand tough conditions, however, there are several reasons why they might fail. If your system fails, first begin by checking any fuses or circuit breakers. Let the unit cool down for 5-10 minutes before resetting the breakers. If your air conditioner’s compressor stops on a hot day, the high-pressure limit switch may have been tripped; rest this by pushing the button, located in the compressor’s access panel. Below are some common reasons for air conditioner failure:

• Refrigerant leaks. If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, either it was undercharged at installation or it leaks. If it leaks, simply adding refrigerant is not the solution. A trained technician should fix any leak, test the repair, and then charge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant. Remember that the performance and efficiency of your air conditioner is greatest when the refrigerant charge exactly matches the manufacturer’s specification, and is neither undercharged nor overcharged. Refrigerant leaks can also be harmful to the environment.
• Inadequate Maintenance. If you allow filters and air conditioning coils to become dirty, the air conditioner will not work properly, and the compressor or fans are likely to fail prematurely.
• Frozen inside coil. A frozen coil may indicate a problem with the airflow, such as restrictions caused by dirty air filters or blocked return air ductwork. Frozen indoor coils could also be caused by low refrigerant.
• Electric control failure. The compressor and fan controls wear out, especially when the air conditioner turns on and off frequently, as is common when a system is oversized. Because corrosion of wire and terminals is also a problem in many systems, electrical connections and contacts should be checked during a professional service call.
• Faulty wiring. Improper or uncertified wiring is dangerous and a potential fire hazard. Bad wiring often prevents the system from getting power or can trip the circuit breaker.
• Drainage problems. When it’s humid outside, check the condensate drain to make sure it isn’t clogged and is draining properly.

 

Source: US Department of Energy
 

Warm, summer days bring out many homebuyers in search of their dream home. Often new homebuyers find out too late that the home of their dreams is actually the stuff of nightmares, riddled with water leakages and/or poor plumbing systems. To avoid problems carefully inspect any potential home for damage, using the tips below. (These tips are also helpful just to make sure your own home is in good shape and is maintaining its value!)

• Check to see how fast the toilet(s) flushes.
• Check around the base of the toilet(s) for signs of water damage (i.e.; rolled vinyl, black or white stains).
• To check for a "soft floor," stand straddled over the toilet(s) and rock back and forth on each foot. If the floor feels spongy, it is probably rotting or weakened.
• Check for leaky or loose tiles by pressing on the walls where they come in contact with the bathtub. If the walls are soft, water may have created damage behind the tiles.
• Turn on water in bathtub and in the kitchen sink. If there is a noticeable reduction in water volume, the piping in the house may need to be replaced because of calcium and mineral deposits.
• Find the main line cleanout and ensure that it is accessible.
• Check the date of the water heater. The first four numbers of the serial number on the water heater are the month and year. Any heater over 15 years old is a candidate to be replaced.
• Keep in mind, a rusty water heater tank is a sign of pending problems.
• Check to make sure that the garbage disposer and dishwasher connections are tight and leak free.
• Survey the inside of cabinets (with a flashlight) for signs of water damage, warped cabinet bottom or stains. Make sure that traps and supply tubes are not leaking.
• Check washing machine hoses for rupture. Turn valves on and off to test for leaks.
• Standing water is another common problem resulting from leaky or broken pipes. Excess water in a yard may be coming from a damaged sewer line and may contain waste from the home. Standing water is not healthy for children or pets, and is a breeding ground for insects and germs.

Whether it’s your current home or your potential dream home, any serious plumbing problems should be looked at by a professional plumber.
 

Buying energy efficient appliances these days is just plain smart! You’re not only saving the environment by using fewer natural resources, but you’re also saving money in your pocket through lower utility bills.

Keep in mind, you can increase the economic benefits of buying more energy efficient appliances by checking for rebates offered by your local energy and water utilities or tax incentives available from your state or federal government. Rebates are most common for high efficiency refrigerators, clothes washers, lighting products and cooling equipment. Rebate programs are much more common among electric companies than gas, although some gas utilities offer rebates for high efficiency furnaces and boilers.

• Research available tax credits on the Tax Incentives Awareness Project (TIAP) or DSIRE, an online database of state and federal incentives for efficiency and renewables.
• If you are in the market to buy a major appliance soon, call your utility or state energy office to see if rebates are offered for efficient models. Don’t forget to check with the water utility if you are purchasing a dishwasher, washing machine or water heater.

 

Source: http://www.aceee.org/consumerguide/intro.htm - rebates
 

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system not only heats and cools your home but it can also keep the humidity at comfortable levels in summer and winter. This is a delicate balance: if it’s too low, you’ll feel the effects of colds, respiratory infections, and asthma more, and some of the furnishings in your home can literally dry out. If it’s too high, you’ll be uncomfortable and mold and mildew will flourish. The ideal humidity for humans is 55 percent, according to both the ALA (American Lung Association) and the IAQA (Indoor Air Quality Association). Proper humidity levels keep you healthier and more comfortable.

Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor in the air. Warm air holds more water vapor than cold air. This explains why you will experience high humidity in the summer and low humidity in the winter.

Problems with high humidity:
When the temperatures warm up outside you can experience too much humidity in your home. Too much humidity can cause condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, moldy bathrooms, musty odor, and/or clammy feel to the air. Rot and structural damage can also result from extended periods of high humidity in your home.

High humidity can be especially dangerous when combined with high temperatures, as it will disrupt the body's ability to cool itself, which can lead to heat stroke. People with heart problems or asthma are advised to be extremely careful during such conditions. Drier air provides comfort at higher temperatures, so homeowners can raise the setting on their central air conditioners thereby reducing their energy usage.

High humidity can even trigger allergic reactions, contribute to ongoing allergies, and fuel dust mite problems. High humidity makes it easier for molds to reproduce, and they can appear virtually anywhere, damaging whatever they grow upon. Mold spores pose a threat for allergy and asthma sufferers. Dust mites will thrive when the humidity is high. Present in almost every home, these tiny pests are yet another nuisance for people with allergies and asthma.

Solutions for high humidity:

• Air conditioners pull moisture from the air as they cool it, which is one reason you feel better in an air conditioned home
• Install a dehumidifier directly to your heating and cooling system or purchase individual units for rooms or areas in your home *
• Whole house dehumifiders and some heating and cooling systems come with thermostats designed to target and rectify humidity levels
• Turn down or stop using your humidifier
• Vent areas that create moist air, like the shower or bathroom
• Use range and bathroom exhaust fans while cooking and bathing
• Cook with pans covered
• Take shorter showers with cooler water
• Install fresh air intake duct
• Reduce number of plants in your home
• Vent clothes drier to outside
• Add carpet – this will actually trap moisture
• Air conditioning– make sure your air conditioner is sized correctly. When it runs, it may run a little longer, but it will be pulling out moisture and will have an easier time cooling so it’s not costing you any more.

If you would like to have a current load calculation on your home, please feel free to contact us. We always perform a heat load calculation prior to retrofitting an air conditioning system, as all contractors should. It is a standard part of our estimate process.

Problems with low humidity:
When the temperature outside falls, your furnace runs more. In extreme cold conditions, your home humidity level can drop as low as 10 percent. By comparison, the Sahara Desert has an average relative humidity of 25 percent. When you consider that people generally are most comfortable when the relative humidity is approximately 40 percent, you can see how dry indoor air can take a toll on your family.

Low humidity causes static electricity, dry skin, lips and hair, scratchy throats and noses, and itching and chapping. Mucous membranes in nose and throat dry out, increasing your discomfort and susceptibility to colds and respiratory illness. With low humidity levels, body moisture evaporates so quickly that you feel chilled even at higher thermostat settings.

Your home suffers, too. Low humidity can cause havoc with woodwork and furniture. You'll notice shrinkage, hardwood floor separation and warping, your piano will go out of tune, wallpaper peels at the edges, drawers loosen and molding gaps start to appear.

Solutions for low humidity:

• Install a humidifier directly to your heating and cooling system or purchase individual units for rooms or areas in your home *
• Boiling or cooking with the lids off the pans
• Moisture from the shower or bathroom
• Keep houseplants

 

*A humidifier/dehumidifier built into your heating and cooling system is the best long-term solution. The water supply is constant and it can be controlled by a humidistat mounted on your wall, properly regulating the humidity in your home. With the right amount of humidity, you’ll find that you can be comfortable at a lower thermostat setting. And that will increase your comfort as well as save you money on your energy bills.
 

Why do I need to change my air filter?
Regularly changing the air filter in your air conditioning unit is essential to not only for the continued efficiency of your system but also affects indoor air quality and the longevity of your system.

A clogged, dirty filter affects the efficiency of your system because it reduces the air flow into your home, thereby reducing the cooling effects. As you feel less of the cooling effects, your system has to work harder and longer to try to meet the temperature settings you’ve set on your thermostat. The harder the system works, the less efficient and the higher your utility bills will be.

A dirty filter also passes dust and other particles from the filter into your system and then distributes them back into your home. Your air supply as a result will be full of impurities and allergens that reduce the quality of air inside your home.

The result of a dirty filter is also a decrease in the lifespan of your system. The build-up of dirt and dust can cause damage to parts like the blowing fan. A system that is working longer and harder also has a greater probably of breakdowns.

When and How to change my air filter?
In general, air filters should be changed every 30-60 days, if they are in regular use. You may also want to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific needs of your system.

NOTE: If you have a washable filter check it on a regular basis and clean it as needed, following manufacture’s recommendations.

Locate your furnace and the filter compartment. A strip of metal that slides in and out of place normally covers this compartment.

Once you locate the air filter, check its size, which may be noted on the side of the device. You can also call the manufacturer for details or contact the HVAC technician that installed your system.

Get the dimensions of your air filter and make sure to purchase the same size. You may even want to bring the old filter to the store with you to make sure you buy the correct replacement.

There are a variety of filters available, ranging from inexpensive spun glass filters to pricier synthetic polyester fibers. You may want to consider high efficiency filters if you live in warmer, dustier climates, as they will capture more dust particles. If allergies are a concern for your family, you may want to consider Hepa filters and filters coated with chemicals to kill bacteria.

Use a black permanent marker when you change your filter. When you slide up the metal guard, note the direction of the air flow marked on the side of the old filter and draw arrows in the same direction on the metal guard. This way you will have no question which direction to insert the new filter.

According to the EnergyStar, a division of the EPA, dirt and neglect are the top causes for cooling system inefficiency and failure. Changing the air filter on your air conditioning system is the least expensive thing you can do to maintain your cooling system.

Our homes are compromised of a series of complex systems. These systems all require special care and maintenance. One system in particular, the plumbing system, requires particular care if there is a problem. While you may be able to complete some minor fixes yourself, most repairs require a professional plumber.

Identified below are some situations that will require the services of a professional plumber.

• Flooded basement. If you have a flooded basement, it may be the result of a blocked pipe or your pipes could have busted or cracked. This is a problem that only a professional will have the knowledge and tools to address. If you try to fix this yourself, you could cause additional damage and add to your expense.
• Septic tank or sewer line damage. Both septic tank and sewer line damage can be serious and very messy problems, and will require a trained professional. This is especially true if the sewer lines run out to the street. Special training is required for such a complicated job. The repair may also involve digging up property to get to the sewer line or septic tank.
• Clogged drain or toilet. If you have either a clogged drain or toilet, and they don’t become unclogged after trying a number of methods, the problem may be that the clog is further down in the drain. A professional plumber will have the right tools to snake the line and clear the clog. The pipes in your home are fragile so it is important that you are not rough on them and cause further damage.
• Problems with gas line, water pump, and water heater. Certain devices and components are best left to a professional plumber to handle and repair. Gas lines can be particularly dangerous so you should not fiddle with the lines. A plumber will have the correct equipment to safely locate the problem and repair it.

When it comes to plumbing problems, the system can be tricky, so if you have a serious problem, contact a plumber who will be able to diagnose and repair the problem safely and correctly the first time.

During the hot days of summer your air conditioning system works extra hard to keep up with your comfort demands. There are several ways that you can help take some of the stress off your system and help it work more efficiency. Less energy means lower utility bills, too!

• Keep your air conditioning system maintained on a regular basis. A preseason maintenance check will ensure that your system is working at its most efficient.
• Check and change your air filters regularly. Clogged, dirty filters can cause your unit to work harder and will affect the efficiency of your whole system.
• Consider adding a dehumidifier to your air conditioning system. Too much humidity in the air reduces comfort, whereas less humidity makes the air feel cooler. When your air feels cooler you can turn down the thermostat and not run your air conditioner as much.
• Keep doors between rooms open to promote air flow. This flow of air makes it easier for your system to cool your entire home.
• Keep outside doors and windows shut while running your conditioner. Make sure they are properly sealed so that your cooled air is not escaping through the cracks.
• Leave your themostat on AUTO setting. Leaving your fan in a constant "on" position can actually increase the humidity levels in your home in our hot climate.
• Don’t overuse exhaust fans. If left on too long they’ll start to expel the air-conditioned air in your home.
• Use shades, blinds, or curtains to block the radiant heat from the sun during the day.
• Avoid using heat generating appliances during the day. Wait to use your oven, dishwasher, and clothes washer and dryer in the evening when it’s cooler.
• Utilize ceiling fans to help circulate air conditioned air. Ceiling fans push the hot air down and help circulate cooled air. They make it easier for your air conditioning system to maintain your temperature settings.
• Consider shading your outdoor air conditioning unit. A unit that is hot is proven to run harder and use more energy. However, make sure to keep the area around your outside unit free of debris and accessible for maintenance.

Each new season brings its own set of home care tasks. When it comes to plumbing projects you are best to leave these tasks to the professionals. If you don’t know what you’re doing, messing with a plumbing system can result in not only serious damage and expensive repair bills, but potential health hazards.



Below are some good “spring cleaning” tips:

• Check faucets for drips or leaks. Make repairs to save water.
• Check toilets for hidden leaks. Add six drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes
• Ensure that all drains have strainers to prevent hair, soap and debris from clogging the drain lines.
• Inspect tank and bowl for cracks or leaks.
• Exercise water supply valves under sinks and toilets to prevent them from sticking.
• Make sure toilets flush properly. If the handle must be held down for a thorough flush or jiggled to stop the water from running you may need to replace worn tank parts. They're inexpensive and you'll notice a lower water bill.
• Check the temperature setting on the water heater. It should be set no higher than 120°F to prevent scalding and reduce energy use.
• Carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank to flush out corrosion causing sediment, which reduces heating efficiency and shortens the life of the heater.
• Consider replacing a water heater more than 15 years old. (The first four numbers of the serial number represent the month and year it was made.) Newer water heaters are more energy efficient
• Pour a gallon of water into infrequently used drains (including floor drains) to fill the trap and prevent odors from entering the house. Slow floor drains should be snaked to ensure they will carry away water quickly in the event of a flood.
• Check exposed pipes under sinks and in the basement for signs of leaks.
• If your home has a sump pump, make sure it operates properly by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water then shut off without any problems.
• Install a backflow valve in the floor drain if you live in an area where sewers sometimes back up into homes. This device will prevent future backups
• Make sure yard drains, gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, open, and free of debris.
• Check for bird nests in plumbing vent pipes.
• Check faucets and hose bibs to make sure water flows freely. If an outdoor faucet drips or if there is leakage inside your home the first time the hose is turned on, you may have had a frozen pipe that cracked and needs to be replaced.

SOURCE: http://www.plumbersofamerica.com/safety-tips.aspx

How Does Your Air Conditioner “Cool” The Air?

Central air conditioning systems are split systems: an outdoor and an indoor unit. The function of an air conditioner is to transport heat from one station to another. It doesn’t actually cool the air, but rather creates cool air by removing heat from the air. The vehicle your system uses to carry the heat is called a refrigerant.

• The compressor in your unit changes the refrigerant into a gas. As the gas flows through the outdoor coil, it loses heat and condenses into a liquid. This liquid travels into the evaporator coil. There the refrigerant expands into a gas. It then absorbs heat circulating in the duct work. The cool air is redistributed through your house. Meanwhile, the heat absorbed by the refrigerant is carried back outside.
• Dirty coils and improper refrigerant levels can cause your system to cool less efficiently. An inefficient system means higher bills. It forces your compressor to work harder and shortens the life span of your unit. An annual inspection includes an assessment of the coils and refrigerant charge, to insure that your system is efficient.

How Does Your Air Conditioner Dehumidify The Air?

• As the warm air circulating through your ducts passes over the evaporator coil, it is cooled and can no longer hold as much moisture. The excess moisture condenses, similar to what happens when moisture condenses on the outside of a glass.
• Occasionally, the drain lines become clogged. This can result in an overflow, leading to water leaks in your ceilings or calls. An annual inspection should include an assessment of your drain lines and an algaecide treatment. Consider having a cut-off float switch installed, this will shut off your unit before water overflows.

 

Source:
www.consumerenergycenter.org

By understanding how to read your water heater you can be a better monitor your usage, conserve water and detect possible leaks in your home before they become major disasters.

Location of Water Meter
Your water meter is located outside of your home in a covered box with a curb-stop and a consumer-valve located with it. The curb-stop is what the public water suppliers regulate and the consumer-valve gives homeowners the ability to shut off water availability to the house.

Meter Features
On the face of the water meter you will find a sweep handle, meter-register and a leak detector. The meter-register is composed of white and black numbers recording water passing through. The leak detector is a triangle or star shaped appliance that revolves to indicate water usage.

Leak Detection
You meter is a great mechanism for detecting leaks. Unusually high register digits represent water loss. If you take regular readings of this meter, you might be able to identify concealed leaks quickly and prevent the loss of gallons of water literally going down the drain. High costs, ongoing noise of running water when water flow is switched off, warm blots on floors or fractured walls all represent water leaks inside or outside your home.

Meter assessment
Confirm or rule out water wastage. In the evening before you go to bed, record the figures displayed on the register of the meter. Make sure to avoid any water consumption overnight, no running washing machines or dishwashers, no flushing toilets, no showering or switching on of faucets. The next morning reread your main meter. Higher digits on the meter register indicate leakage inside or outside your home.

Act quickly in the situation of a leak and contact your plumber. You want to resolve whatever is causing the leak as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage from occurring to your home.

Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the problems with indoor air quality and are looking for solutions. According to the American Lung Association, we spend on average 70% of our time indoors and the quality of the air indoors can be up to FIVE TIMES worse than the air outside! Our current focus on energy efficiency and saving money has resulted in adding insulation in our homes, vapor barriers, caulk and weather stripping, all of which effectively retains the heated or cooled air but also reduces air infiltration from outside of our house. This results in air remaining inside longer along with the pollutants in the air.

Below are some of the problems that poor indoor air quality causes:

• Asthma
• Rhinitis
• Bacteria
• Sinusitis
• Allergic respiratory disease
• Dust and dirt buildup
• Excessive mold and mildew
• Increased utility bills (due to decreased air flow)
• Unpleasant fumes and odors

*50% of illnesses (such as colds and flu, allergies and asthma) are caused or aggravated by mold, mildew, bacteria and fungi, according to the American College for Allergists.

Here are some solutions to your indoor air quality problems:

Air Cleaners
Air cleaners can improve your health by keeping your entire house cleaner, and also protects your furnishings and saves you time and the aggravation of continuous dusting and cleaning. A whole-house cleaner can help provide relief from irritants – up to 40 times more efficiently than standard furnace filters. Air cleaners also prevent the buildup of dust and dirt in your heating and cooling equipment, which can reduce the efficiency of your system by as much as 25%.

Air Purifiers
An air purifier whole-house filtration system is the most effective air cleaning system available. It cleanses the air in your home better than any other single system you can buy. An air purifier will deliver cleaner air, and more of it!

Filters
You can switch from a standard 1” filter to a higher quality HEPA filter to increase the filtration of particles in the air in your home. Also just by changing or cleaning (depending upon the filter type) your filter monthly will help cut down on the amount of dust and pollutants in your air. Filters remove dust and other particles from the air such as pollen, bacteria, smoke, smog, pet dander, and plant and mold spores. Keeping a clean air filter in your system also helps increase the energy efficiency and prolongs the life of your heating and cooling system.

Duct cleaning
A whole-house duct cleaning will dislodge dirt and debris in the airflow system of your home and then is followed by a thorough cleaning. This cleaning will kill germs and bacteria, remove dust in your home, improve the efficiency of your system, and make your home smell clean and fresh. Doctors and allergists also recommend duct cleaning.

UV Germicidal Lamps
UltraViolet (UV) Germicidal Lamps works to destroy airborne contaminants. Mold and bacteria can easily grow on air conditioning coils as a result of normal condensation that takes place during the cooling process. A UV Germicidal Lamp is designed to kill that mold and bacteria by breaking down its DNA. The elimination of mold and bacteria will reduce your family’s risk of allergic reactions and illnesses as well as get rid of foul odors. It also allows your home comfort system to run less often, for shorter periods of time at peak efficiency. As a result, this will save you money on your utility bills.
 

Low water pressure can occur for a number of reasons.  The most common is when you have multiple plumbing fixtures running at the same time, i.e. outside hose, shower and/or dishwasher, which lowers your water pressure to each fixture.  There are other problems, however, that can cause low water pressure. 

Below is a list of typical problems that can lead to low water pressure:

Pressure Regulators.  The water pressure regulator is a bell-shaped device generally found below the front hose connection of your home.  The regulators are typically preset by the manufacturer at about 45 – 60 psi, and in most cases, don’t need to be adjusted.  Sometimes a pressure regulator goes bad and needs to be replaced.  This is something a professional plumber should be called in to take care of, doing this incorrectly can lead to even more water flow problems.  A licensed plumber can easily fix and replace a pressure regulator at a reasonable cost.

Home Valves.  Sometimes valves are partially or completely turned off by accident.  There are two main vales that you should make certain are in the “on” position and the water valve inside your home and the main water valve located outside your home.  The main valve is located at the meter box and the home valve is located near the hose bib, which is the exterior water hose faucet at the front of the residence.  Even if slightly turned from the “on” position, these valves can cause a decrease in water flow.

Water Leaks.  Any damage to the pipe that results in a leak, whether large or small, will result in a lower water pressure.  The issue here is how to determine if you have a leak or not.  Read the meter and not your bill.  To do this, you should shut off all water taps inside and outside your home.  Read the meter after doing this and return two hours later.  If your water usage has increased, changes are you have a leak and need to contact a plumber as soon as possible.

Peak Periods.  Although you might not realize it, most of us operate during the same hours during the day.  So, low water pressure could be the result of the majority of your neighborhood using the shower at the same time every morning or watering the lawn at the same time every evening.  If that’s the case, you might look at altering your schedule a bit.

Mineral Deposits.  In older homes or homes built with galvanized iron pipes, mineral deposits are unavoidable over time and it doesn’t help that not water and horizontal pipe speed up the process.  But if you believe the problem to be a result of mineral deposits, the best thing to do is get a reputable plumber to the house for an estimate so you can gauge the extent of repairs that may need to be made.

Hire a Pro.  The bottom line when you need to increase water pressure is that you can check the simple things yourself.  By checking the valves and monitoring water usage amounts and schedules you can either eliminate the problem or identify the need to call in reinforcements.  When it comes to the bigger issues like pipe erosion, blockage, or leaks, it’s best to consult a professional.  The last thing you want to do is to make any problem bigger than it already is, so call in a professional plumber and leave your worries behind!
 

Your air conditioning system has many moving parts and just like your car needs to be serviced on a regular basis to keep it working reliably, safely and efficiently. You don’t want to be stuck on the hottest day this summer waiting for the service technician (during their busiest time) to come fix your air conditioning unit, when a simple tune-up could have prevented the need for this emergency service call.

Below are some important checks that we make during an Air Conditioner Service call and how they benefit you:

• Check thermostat.  An improperly calibrated thermostat affects not only your comfort but your operating costs as well.
• Start unit.  We start your unit to verify that it is operational before the hot weather hits.
• Check return air filter.  If your air filter is restricted it causes your unit to waste energy and shortens the life of your compressor.  (Compressors are very expensive to replace!)
• Check and replace air filters.  Dirty filters decrease the efficiency of your system and reduce the comfort your system can provide.
• Clean evaporator coil.  Dirty evaporator coils decrease system efficiency and can lead to compressor failure.  (Remember, compressors are expensive to replace!)
• Check condensate drain.  A plugged condensate drain can cause expensive water damage.
• Check condensate pan and fittings for leaks.  A cracked pan or loose fitting can cause expensive water damage.
• Check blower wheel.  Dirty blowers reduce airflow, increase operating costs and can lead to compressor failure (compressors = expensive!).
• Check blower motor amp draw.  Ensures optimum performance and protects your equipment.
• Lube motors & bearings.  Improperly lubricated rotating equipment will eventually fail.
• Check belt, pulleys and alignment.  Avoids costly service calls and save money on utility costs.
• Examine parts for visible wear.  This check helps avoid costly service calls.
• Examine all electrical connections.  Extends life of your system and ensures safety.
• Remove debris around outside unit.  Promotes efficiency and prevents damage to equipment.
• Clean condenser coil.  Dirty condenser coils raise refrigerant pressures Increasing electrical costs.
• Check condenser fan and motor amp draw.  Ensures optimum performance and protects your equipment.
• Check all safety devices.  Keeps unit in safe operating condition.
• Test refrigeration metering device.  Blockage or improper operations of metering device reduces cooling capacity, increases fuel costs, and shortens system life.
• Check compressor amp draw.  Ensures optimum performance and protects equipment.
• Wax outdoor unit.  For weather protection and extended life.

Garbage disposals are great appliances to have.  But if you don’t operate or maintain it properly, it can require expensive repairs and cause drain nightmares.

Here are a few dos and don’ts to extend its life and prevent plumbing and drain mishaps:

DO’S:

• Use a strong flow of cold water (never hot) when you grind food.
• Grind peelings of citrus fruits to freshen up drain smells.
• Grind some ice cubes up in the disposal.  The scouring action created will help clean the disposal walls.
• Pour a little dish soap in the disposal after washing dishes and let the cold water run for a minute or so.

DON’TS:

• Pour grease or fat into your garbage disposal.  It will impede its grinding ability and eventually clog the drain.
• Use hot water with your disposal.  Hot water will cause grease to liquefy and clog the disposal.
• Put expandable foods like rice in the disposal.  These food expand like t hey do in a pot and will clog your drain.
• Grind fibrous materials like corn husks or onion skins.  These fibers can tangle and jam the disposal.

If you do have a clogged disposal or drain, call a professional plumber to fix it before it becomes a major problem.

 

Proper landscaping is a natural and beautiful way to keep your home more comfortable and reduce energy bills.  A shaded air conditioning unit is one way in particular that you can reduce your energy bills.  Shading your outdoor unit allows it to cool your home easier, increases the efficiency of the unit and reduces your energy consumption.  A shaded unit requires up to 10 percent less energy to operate than an unshaded unit and shaded air can be up to six degrees cooler than air in direct sun.

Here are some helpful tips when landscaping around your air conditioning unit:

• Do keep your a/c unit out of direct sunlight.  If it gets too hot your a/c unit will have to work harder and this eventually results in a shortened life on your compressor.  A cooler unit is also more efficient.
• Don’t plant anything that will block the access panel where the unit needs to be serviced.
• Do keep 2-3 feet between whatever shading you have and your unit so that it is accessible for maintenance and repair.
• Don’t build anything above your air conditioning unit, like a deck or porch. 
• Do take care when shading your air conditioning unit to allow enough space around it so that the hot air emitted from the condenser can flow away from the unit easily.
• Don’t plant shrubs or trees so thick that they block the flow of air to the unit.
• Do leave at least two feet clearance around the equipment and at least five feet above it.
• Do keep area around a/c unit free of any loose dirt or sand.  This debris can splatter on your unit when it rains, and when it’s dry outside, the unit will be sucking up all the dust around it.
• Do plant trees near your unit.  Trees will provide shading and cooling.  Just three trees, properly placed around a house can save between $100 and $250 annually in cooling and heating costs.  Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides will keep your house cool in the summer. (Note:  Daytime air temperature can be 3º – 6º cooler in tree-shaded neighborhoods.)

Heating & Cooling Service Checklist

You can help the technician accurately and quickly diagnose your heating and cooling unit’s problem by having some crucial information handy.  When the service technician arrives at your home you should be prepared to provide certain important facts to him/her.  You know the “behavior” of your heating and cooling unit better than anyone else.  Remember, no fact is insignificant and it may help your technician diagnose and fix the problem.

Be prepared to provide your technician with the following information:

• The brand and/or model number of your unit.
• The age of your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner.
• When your unit was last serviced and who last serviced it.
• When the filters were last changed.
• Did you check your circuit breakers to make sure none were “tripped”?
• When you first noticed that the unit was not working properly.
• Was it making any unusual noises?
• Are there any unusual odors?
• Was there any unusual weather activity before the equipment acted up?
• If you saw unusual fluids or leakage around the unit.

By providing detailed information you’ll speed up the diagnosis and service your equipment, thus returning your home to a comfortable level faster!
 

The True Value of HVAC Care

Dirt and dust are the leading causes for air conditioning system failure according to the EPA. 

Stay comfortable and save money by keeping your central air conditioner in tip-top shape. When your air conditioner is running well it uses less energy to cool your home, and lower energy use means bigger savings for you on your monthly utility bills.  Air conditioners at peak efficiency will use up to 20% less electricity and last years longer (requiring less repair).

Early air conditioner maintenance will reveal most small problems that can lead to major, more expensive problems if left unattended.  Home air conditioning repair is something you can legitimately put off for a long time – IF you schedule a tune-up every year. 

The average home’s central air conditioning system runs about 3,300 hours per year.  That’s the equivalent of driving your car 65 miles per hour for 214,000 miles, non-stop!  You can’t run your car, and you shouldn’t run your air conditioner that long without maintenance.

Keeping your air conditioner in good working order helps reduce the amount of electricity it needs to keep your house cool, saving you money on your electricity bill.  It will also save you money in the long run with fewer repairs and a longer service life for your air conditioner.  And last, but not least, a well-managed system means a more comfortable home for you and your family.

Here are some helpful A/C tips for homeowners:

• Before turning on your unit make sure the condensing unit located outside is not covered up.  This unit needs to draw air into the system in order to have something to cool and blow out inside, but the process will be hindered if it cannot pull enough air from the outside.
• Clean obvious obstructions such as newspaper, leaves, etc. from around the exterior of the unit.
• A thoroughly cleaned air conditioning unit will operate at top efficiency.  Homeowners are strongly discouraged from using a hose and water to try to clean it themselves because of the very serious risk of electrical shock and possible shorting of electrical components.  You should contact a licensed HVAC professional.
• Run your air conditioner for a few minutes now, before you need it.  If you wait until the first hot day to discover it isn’t working, you’ll find yourself on a waiting list, sweltering sometimes for days before an air conditioning specialist can come to fix it.
• Change the filters regularly.  Dirty filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and worse case, can cause the evaporator to ice up.  Disposable fiberglass filters should be replaced.  Electrostatic or electronic filters need to be washed regularly.
• Be sure all access panels are secure, with the screws in place.
• Be sure the thermostat is set in the cooling mode.  Just setting the dial below room temperature will not activate the air conditioning if it is set in the heat mode.

Water damage accounts for 25% of all home-insurance claims in the U.S. and 37% of homeowners claim to loss of property due to water damage.  That is, more than one out of three homeowners has experienced water damage!  Checking for signs of water damage around your home can help you avoid becoming one of the statistics.

Below are some signs to observe that can help prevent water damage.  Regular maintenance and observation against water damage will result in lesser costs and a greater peace of mind.

• Visual Signs
  Some obvious signs of moisture build-up are dampness, dripping, leaking and flooding.  A drippy faucet or shower should not be ignored.  Get it fixed! (Hint:  It also costs you money in higher utility bills and wastes a precious natural resource, water.)  A drippy faucet or shower can lead to excessive humidity that can escalate to water damage.
   
• Water Stains
  These stains can be seen on the ceiling or walls and indicate dripping from the roof, or a leaking behind a wall.  Both types of stains will have browning around the edges, however, a ceiling stain tends to be more circular and a water stain on a wall will be wide where the leakage starts and thin out as it moves downward.
   
• Coolness in the Air
  Humidity and coolness in the air are indicators of the presence of moisture.  If a room or a basement is unusually cool, somewhere moisture is evaporating.  Find the source, fix it, and keep your living space dry. This will make a huge difference in the preservation of your home.
   
• Damp Surfaces
  If a surface in your home, like a wall, feels damp, you can be sure there is a source causing that dampness.  Whether you have dripping from a loose pipe connection, a pinhole leak, water flow from drainage or a loosely sealed window during rain, repair the fault immediately.  Make maintenance of the home against water damage a year-round practice.
   
• Musty Smell
  A rank, musty smell can indicate the presence of moisture and molds.  Toxic molds give off a distinct odor.  If your place smells of molds, look where they are hiding and perform mold remediation.  This includes getting rid of the moisture that molds need to survive.
   
• Listening for Leaks
  If you hear unexplainable water movement during the dead of the night, whether it’s tiny dripping or a gushing noise that sounds far-off, it could be that a leakage is present.  In some rare cases, seepage is quickly absorbed by the ground or by material behind the wall leaving no trace of dampness from above or the outside.  If you ears tell you something is not right, investigate! 

• Spiking Water Bills
  If you see a sudden escalation in your water bill and you have made no changes in water usage, it’s a sign that you’ve got a water problem.  Did you know an 1/8th of an inch crack in a water pipe can yield 250 gallons of water a day?  Have it checked out by a qualified plumber.

The duct system in your home is the vehicle through which your heated and cooled air is distributed throughout your home.  Moisture should never be present in ducts. Controlling moisture is the most effective way to prevent biological growth in air ducts.

Moisture can enter the duct system through leaks or if the system has been improperly installed or serviced. Research suggests that condensation (which occurs when a surface temperature is lower than the dew point temperature of the surrounding air) on or near cooling coils of air conditioning units is a major factor in moisture contamination of the system. The presence of condensation or high relative humidity is an important indicator of the potential for mold growth on any type of duct. Controlling moisture can often be difficult, but here are some steps you can take.

To prevent ducts from becoming wet:

• Promptly and properly have any leaks or water damage repaired.
• Pay particular attention to cooling coils, which are designed to remove water from the air and can be a major source of moisture contamination of the system that can lead to mold growth.  Regular maintenance on your cooling system can prevent this.
• Make sure the condensate pan drains properly. The presence of substantial standing water and/or debris indicates a problem requiring immediate attention.
• Check any insulation near cooling coils for wet spots.
• Make sure ducts are properly sealed and insulated in all non-air-conditioned spaces (e.g., attics and crawl spaces). This will help to prevent moisture due to condensation from entering the system and is important to make the system work as intended. To prevent water condensation, the heating and cooling system must be properly insulated.
• If you are replacing your air conditioning system, make sure that the unit is properly sized for your needs and that all ducts are sealed at the joints. A unit that is too big will cycle on and off frequently, resulting in poor moisture removal, particularly in areas with high humidity. Also make sure that your new system is designed to manage condensation effectively.

The duct system in your home is the vehicle through which your heated and cooled air is distributed throughout your home.  Air passes through your duct system at an average speed of 1000 feet per minute.  Air moving at that speed kicks up harmful contamination and sends it back into your living and breathing space.  So it stands to reasons that if your duct system is dirty that the air you are breathing will be dirty also. 

According to the EPA, the indoor air we are exposed to is 70% more polluted than the outdoor air.  Keeping your ducts free of contaminates will help you and your family breath easier.  Good preventative maintenance is essential to minimize duct contamination.  Below are some preventative maintenance tips.

Prevent dirt from entering your system:

• Use the highest efficiency air filter recommended by the manufacturer of your heating and cooling system.
• Change filters regularly.
• If your filters become clogged, change them more frequently.
• Be sure you do not have any missing filters and that air cannot bypass filters through gaps around the filter holder.
• When having your heating and cooling system maintained or checked for other reasons, be sure to ask the service provider to clean cooling coils and drain pans.
• During construction or renovation work that produces dust in your home, seal off supply and return registers and do not operate the heating and cooling system until after cleaning up the dust.
• Remove dust and vacuum your home regularly. (Use a high efficiency vacuum (HEPA) cleaner or the highest efficiency filter bags your vacuum cleaner can take. Vacuuming can increase the amount of dust in the air during and after vacuuming as well as in your ducts).
• If your heating system includes in-duct humidification equipment, be sure to operate and maintain the humidifier strictly as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Whether of not you decide to have the air ducts in your home cleaned, committing to a good preventive maintenance program is essential to minimize duct contamination.

Heating and cooling your home uses more energy and drains more energy dollars than any other system in your home. Typically, 43% of your utility bill goes for heating and cooling systems.

No matter what kind of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system you have in your house, you can save money and increase your comfort by properly maintaining and upgrading your equipment. Here are some simple tips to help you save energy in your home.

• Combine proper equipment maintenance and upgrades with appropriate insulation, air sealing and thermostat settings, and you can cut your energy use for heating and cooling.
•  
• Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the cooler winter months and as high as comfortable in the summer months. Invest in a programmable thermostat.
•  
• Clean or replace furnace or a/c filters once a month or as needed.
•  
• Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure they’re not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
•  
• Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing; when replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models.
•  
• During cool days, keep draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from the cold windows.
•  
• During hot days, keep window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain.
•  
• Long-Term Saving Tips. Select energy-efficient products when you buy new heating and cooling equipment. For air conditioners, look for a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The current minimum is 13 SEER for air conditioners. ENERGY STAR models are 14 SEER or more.

Adjusting your thermostat a few degrees when you are away from home or during the night can save you money in your monthly utility bills. You can save as much as 1% on your utility bills for each degree if the setback period is eight hours long. In this economy, who isn’t looking for ways to cut back on bills! Unfortunately there is a certain amount of inconvenience when you have to manually control the temperature on your thermostat. Forgetting to adjust the thermostat can result in uncomfortable temperatures or loss of these savings. You can maximize your energy savings without sacrificing comfort by installing a programmable thermostat.

Programmable Thermostat- Benefits

• Accurate temperature control
• Easy to use
• Menu-driven programming is functional and user-friendly
• Set-it-forget-it programming makes energy saving automatic
• Maximize energy saving while providing complete comfort control
• Contribute to overall system performance
• Saves wear and tear on high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment by properly cycling the equipment
• Programmable fan controls for air circulation
• Lifestyle programming (including vacation controls)
• Certain programmable thermostats qualify as an Energy Star product with the U.S. Department of Energy

Before you buy a programmable thermostat, chart your weekly habits including wake up and departure times, return home times, and bedtimes, and the temperatures that are comfortable during those times. This will help you decide what type of thermostat will best serve your needs. Do you need a CSI? Is your water bill suddenly a lot higher? Are some rooms in your home just not as comfortable as you would like them to be, too hot or too cold? Are you concerned about the quality of air you are breathing? Is your home too dry this winter? Is your heating system not working? Our qualified “Comfort Service Investigators” can investigate all of these issues.

We don’t really call them CSI’s, more like technicians, plumbers and comfort consultants; but together we can find solutions to all of your home comfort issues.

Too Hot or Too Cold Areas in Your Home: A Bayonet professional can assess your home and help determine the causes. A zoning system may be a helpful solution to your problem. A forced air zoning system uses multiple thermostats and automatic dampers in your home’s ductwork, to intelligently control the airflow to every register in your home.  It directs the heated or cooled air only to the areas that require it.  Since one thermostat is not “smart” enough to adequately sense your comfort needs everywhere throughout your home, a zoning system puts a thermostat in all the different areas of your home to guide the air exactly where it needs to be and stop it from going where it is no longer needed. 

Another possibility is that your home is not insulated well enough. Insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow and is essential to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. A well-insulated and well-designed home will provide year-round comfort and can cut cooling and heating bills in half.

Plumbing Leaks: If your water bill suddenly increases over what you paid last month there is a very good chance you have a water leak. If you haven’t noticed anything unusual it may be hard to locate. A Bayonet plumber can investigate the source of your leak and fix it, preventing any further damage to your home.

Air Quality: Indoor air quality is a growing concern in our society today. Americans on average spend 70% of their time indoors and according to the American Lung Association the quality of our indoor air can be up to FIVE TIMES worse than the outside air. That’s a pretty scary statistic! One of our Bayonet professionals can test, assess and remediate your indoor air quality problems.

Air too dry: Controlling the humidity levels in your home greatly influences the comfort you will experience. Your home will feel most comfortable at humidity levels between 30 - 50%. We need humidity for our comfort and health but too much or too little can produce many difficulties for homeowners. You can call a Bayonet professional to test, assess and remediate your indoor air quality problems and they will recommend a solution that works best for you.

Heating/Cooling: If your heating and cooling system suddenly doesn’t work or is not cooling or heating as well as it should, contact a Bayonet professional and put them on the case. They can determine if your system just needs to be cleaned and serviced or if repair is necessary. If it looks like your system is at the end of its life, a Bayonet professional can let you know what system replacement options are available. (Hint: Right now the Federal Government is offering some great Tax Credits for installing energy efficient heating systems).

Remember, if you’re having any home comfort issues contact the professionals at Bayonet today, our technicians will investigate your problem and find a solution that works for you!
Slow drips of water can add up quickly and can cause extensive damage to your home before it is even noticed. The EPA estimates that more than 1 trillion gallons of water leak from homes nationwide every year. That’s over 3,000 gallons for every person in the U.S. every year!

Fix leaks as soon as you find them. Leaks left unchecked won’t go away on their own. If the leak is hot water, you’re not only paying for wasted water but also for wasted energy. Leaks generally get worse over time and the best course of action is to fix a leak when it’s first noticed.

How do you know if you have a water leak?

• If you see an increase in your monthly water bill that is an indication of a water leak. You may need to compare past water bills to see a change.
• If you suspect a water leak follow the below steps to check or confirm where the leak is. If you are not sure how to proceed contact a plumber.

How can you check for a water leak?

• First, locate the water meter. I should be near the street under a metal, plastic or concrete lid. This meter is an indicator of water use. When water is not being used, nothing on the meter should be moving. (Water meters have numbers or spinning dials to record usage). Most meters also have a small “leak detector” arrow, which senses the lower volumes of water common with leaks.
• Next, turn off every water-using item inside and outside the home. This means turning off showers, sinks, washing machines and any appliance that uses water. If you have a sprinkler irrigation system, make sure to turn it off as well.
• Now check the meter. Watch the meter for a minute or longer. If the leak detector dial or arrow is moving, that is an indication you have a leak. In some cases, it may move back and forth very slightly, as water pressure from the street fluctuates. If it moves, even as a slow rate, you have a leak. You may also want to check the main meter at a set time, and then come back an hour later, after you know no water has been used.
• If you can’t locate the leak use the shut-off valve in your home to turn off the water.
• Confirm the location of the leak. If the main shut-off is closed and the meter has stopped, the leak is not between the meter and your home. If the meter still runs with the main water shut off, your leak is between the meter and your home. Contact a plumber to fix underground outdoor leaks or any water leaks that occur along a pipe. This is a difficult fix and should not be attempted by anyone who is not a professional.

What types of leaks should you look for?

• Faucets. A leaking faucet is usually the result of a bad rubber washer. The washer on a sink is typically located under the handle. A washer is relatively easy to replace, if you have the right tools. It does require shutting off the water under the faucet and removing the handle. If you don’t feel comfortable doing the repair yourself, contact a plumber.
• Toilets. These are by far the most common type of leak. There is an easy test to determine if your toilet leaks. Put several drops of food coloring in the toilet tank and wait 15 minutes. If the colored water appears in the bowl, you have a leak. In most cases, you will need to replace the toilet flapper (the rubber thing at the bottom of the tank that keeps water in the tank) and/or the filling mechanism. If you don’t feel comfortable doing the repair yourself, contact a plumber.
• Outdoor leaks. This most commonly occurs where the garden hose connects to the spigot. If it leaks while you run your hose, try tightening the connection between the hose and the spigot. If this does not work, replace the rubber washer inside the hose connection.

New Water Heater Technology

Hybrid water heaters can save you money without sacrificing hot water. The new industry-exclusive GE Hybrid Electric Water Heater is designed to provide the same hot water homeowners are accustomed to, but requires only about half the energy to produce it. This type of water heater combines the traditional electronic elements with heat pump technology. It actually takes heat out of the air surrounding the water heater and using a sealed system injects that heat into the tank to heat your water. This adds up to significant savings and you won’t have to give up a single drop of hot water!

Below are some of the benefits of a Hybrid Water Heating system.

Cost. Pays for itself in reduced operating costs, up to 62% per year. This will dramatically impact our monthly utility bills for years to come.

Energy Star Rated. Currently, the GE Hybrid Water Heater is the only electric water heater on the market to qualify for the Energy Star rating. Homeowners are now eligible for a Federal Tax Credit of up to 30% on the installation of this product for the 2009-2010 tax years.

Multiple setting. This allows a homeowner to meet a variety of needs. Whether you are having guests stay over, going on vacation or just looking to maximize your energy savings, this water heater has a variety of settings to meet all of your needs while maximizing your efficiencies and reducing your costs.

Next to heating and cooling, water heating is the second largest energy user in your home.  If you are in the market for a new water heater or just looking to cut costs you owe it to yourself to investigate all of your options, traditional, tankless or hybrid water heaters, and pick the one that best fits your needs.


Many of us are looking for ways to be more energy efficient around our homes in addition to saving money on utility bills. With this increased concern for energy conservation and cost cutting, a lot of tips are circulating on how to accomplish this. Some of these tips date back to what our grandparents told us to do. These myths are so ingrained in us because we were told by so and so that we don’t even realize they may actually be having the opposite affect … wasting energy and costing money!

Below is a list of myths and the actual facts behind them.

Myth: Closing off vents and registers will reduce your heating costs.

Fact: In a modern forced air heating system, the pressure load is balanced throughout your home. Blocking the vent will impact how the system inhales and exhales air; it can throw the system out of balance, causing it to have to work harder or even break down. The most energy efficient practice you can do is to have heat evenly distributed throughout your home. Blocking vents in certain rooms will make those rooms colder. Because heat moves from greater concentrations to lesser concentrations, the colder rooms will draw heat from the other rooms in the house, making the whole house feel colder and causing you to raise the thermostat.

Myth: Fluorescent lighting is unhealthy.

Fact: Fluorescent lighting has changed a lot in the past few years. Today they have greatly improved color quality and that annoying flicker and hum have been eliminated from fluorescent lighting. Because they require less electricity, they generate less power plant pollution, which has many known health effects. Fluorescent lights do contain small amounts of mercury and must be disposed of properly. The claim of fluorescent lights “sapping people’s vitamins” and the like have no basis in fact.

Myth: Leaving a ceiling fan on will cool a room … even when you’re not there.

Fact: Fans cool your skin, not the air; they do not lower room temperature. A fan works by circulating the air in a space; when the air moves across the skin, we feel cooler even though the air temperature in the room remains the same. If a fan runs in a room when no one is there, no one is feeling its benefits. So it’s just wasting electricity.

Myth: Duct tape is good for sealing ducts.

Fact: Although duct tape has many good uses, it actually does a pretty lousy job of sealing ducts (contrary to its name). It doesn’t work well in dusty or dirty conditions (you can’t get any dirtier or dustier than an air duct!). Also, the tape tends to fall off as it ages and the adhesive dries out. Mastic tape sticks, seals and insulates much better.

Myth: The higher you set your thermostat; the faster your furnace will heat up your home.

Fact: Furnaces will deliver heat at the same rate no matter how high the temperature is set. If you set your thermostat at the desired temperature, it will reach that point just as quickly as if you set it higher. Since you’ll probably end up having to move the temperature down a few degrees anyway, you’ll wind up using more energy than you intended in the long run.

Myth: There is no benefit in adjusting your thermostat when you don’t need heating or cooling, such as at night or when nobody’s home.

Fact: Research shows that the longer your house stays at a reduced temperature when heating or at an increased temperature when cooling, the more energy and money you will save. This is because heating and cooling cost depends mostly on the difference between indoor and outdoor temperature. When you adjust the temperature down in the winter or up in the summer, you simply reduce this temperature difference. In fact, setting your temperature back 10 or more degrees for 8 hours while you sleep or go to work can reduce your energy bill by 5-15%. A programmable thermostat can adjust temperatures automatically for you.

Myth: Leaving lights, computers and appliances on uses less energy than turning them off and on repeatedly and makes them last longer.

Fact: The small surge of power created when lights, computers or appliances are turned on is infinitely smaller than the energy used by running the device when it’s not needed. Rule of thumb: any time you can turn a device off, it will save money.

Myth: A dripping faucet is not a big deal.

Fact: Not true! Put a bucket underneath and see how quickly those drips add up. A single dripping faucet can add up to 300 or more gallons of water per month. That’s a big chunk on your water bill!


Below are some easy tips to follow to help prevent water damage from occurring in your bathroom.

Toilets. This is a very vulnerable water junction. Check water lines and search for leaks around the toilet seat, in the hose and under the water tank. If you detect any signs of moisture on the floor or around the toilet, check for leaks in the toilet rim and tank seals. Be aware that hanging toilet bowl deodorants increase the chances for clogs.

Sinks & Cabinets. These are exposed to moisture and humidity daily and are often overlooked by homeowners. You should inspect these regularly under the sink and on the countertop above it. Make sure to repair any drip in the trap as it may suggest drain problems. Look around the sink, a slow draining pipe may indicate a blocked drain. Replace sink seals if they are cracked or loose.

Bathtubs & Showers. These require special attention and maintenance. Check the tiles and replace them if they are cracked. Also make sure that there is no missing grout between the tiles. Inspect and replace cracked caulking at joints where the walls meet the floor or the bathtub. Clogged drains and pipe problems will prevent the bathtub from drying and may indicate a serious problem beneath the bathtub. Call a professional plumber immediately to prevent structural damage. Pay special attention to soft areas or discoloration around the bathtub walls as they may indicate an internal leak.

Plumbing. Oftentimes water damage is hard to detect because most pipes are installed inside the walls. Pay special attention to flooring and moisture or stains on the walls as they may indicate an invisible plumbing problem. Also check the moisture levels in adjoining rooms as well.

Preventative Maintenance. An excellent way to prevent water damage is to have a plumber come out and inspect all of your plumbing. They will check your toilets, tighten all of the pipes under the sink, and check for any potential problems that might lead to water damage. Some plumbing services will even offer maintenance agreements. These agreements, just as with your heating and cooling agreements, will often offer priority service over non-plan customers, service that will reduce risks of costly water damage, extended appointment times and emergency service.

Below is a list of benefits that a Maintenance Agreement can provide:

Preferential Service: Go to the front of the line. Many maintenance agreements will allow you to receive service before non-service agreement customers.
Certified Technicians: You will not get an out sourced contractor.
Peace of Mind: You will have the peace of mind knowing that your heating and/or cooling system is protected and maintained for the comfort and safety of your family.
Fewer Repair Bills: A system that is maintained annually experiences considerably fewer breakdowns. It will reduce the risk of costly breakdowns.
Increased Equipment Life: Properly maintained equipment lasts longer - saving you money!
Save Money on Utilities: Properly maintained equipment is more efficient and has a much lower operating cost, which saves you money!
Ensures Safety: You will have the comfort of knowing that your properly maintained and serviced equipment is safe and secure around you and your family.
Receive Documentation: Your home will be more attractive to a potential buyer because you can supply documentation that your HVAC equipment has been maintained properly.
Improved comfort and reliability of your equipment
Extra Benefits: Some maintenance agreements will offer you other benefits as well –
Extended appointment times to fit your schedule
Warranty on repairs
Emergency service
Discounted services and repairs
Maintain and validate manufacturer’s warranties

The best investment to protect your investment!

US Department of Energy
Energy Savers provides homeowners with tips for saving energy and money at home and on the road. By following just a few of the simple tips found on this Energy Savers Web site, you can make your home more comfortable and easier to heat and cool—while you save money. This site has the latest information on energy-saving, efficient technologies.

ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. Energy efficient choices can save families about a third on their energy bill with similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features, style or comfort. ENERGY STAR helps you make the energy efficient choice.

Alliance to Save Energy
The Alliance to Save Energy promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment and greater energy security. The Alliance to Save Energy supports energy efficiency as a cost-effective energy resource under existing market conditions and advocates energy-efficiency policies that minimize costs to society and individual consumers, and that lessen greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on the global climate.

American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting economic prosperity, energy security, and environmental protection.

Home Energy Saver
The Home Energy SaverTM calculator is designed to help consumers identify the best ways to save energy in their homes, and find the resources to make the savings happen. The Home Energy SaverTM calculator was the first Internet-based tool for calculating energy use in residential buildings. The Home Energy SaverTM calculator quickly computes a home's energy use on-line based on methods developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Users can estimate how much energy and money can be saved and how much emissions can be reduced by implementing energy-efficiency improvements.

FuelFrog
FuelFrog lets you create a free account, input how much you paid for your last tank of gas and how many miles you traveled. Over time, you can gain insight into how gas prices change in your city and how your car's gas mileage changes. What's more, FuelFrog is integrated with Twitter. You can use Twitter to tell FuelFrog about your fuel usage and check the FuelFrog feed to see what's going on in the world of gas.

GasBuddy
It happens to all of us-we top off our tank only to drive away and find that just a few block further down there's a station selling the same gas for 20% less. GasBuddy can save you money on gas by showing you the lowest prices for gas in your city. With gas prices changing daily, that's a big incentive for checking this web site before you fill up.

Here are a few of great websites I came across in my own web search!

Dollar Stretcher
This website has many great tips and practical ideas on how to cut corners and live well on a budget. Living better for less.

Google Tip Jar
The Google Tip Jar is filled with tips that readers leave, and you can contribute your frugal tips to the site as well. The tips are simple and a great place to start saving money!

Restraurants.com
This site has cheap gift certificates to all types of restaurants. You can search for restaurants in your area and it will pull up what restaurants are offering deals. Just pay attention to their restrictions, like minimums and alcohol exclusions.

Here are some things you can do on your own however having a plumber periodically check your water heater is also an important part of maintenance.

Check your water heater temperature setting.

• Check the temperature setting on your water heater. On a gas heater there will be a knob on the gas valve. On an electric water heater look for the thermostat behind a panel.
• Keep the temperature between 115 to 120 degrees F.
• By lowering the temperature setting you will protect the tank from overheating, protect your family from any scalding injuries and reduce the energy used to heat the water.
  
  

Check the temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve.

• This valve is critical to the safety and proper operation of your water heater.
• Test the T&P valve by lifting upon the lever part way then let go and allow it to rapidly snap back.
• You should hear a gurgling sound as the valve allows some water to be released into the drain tube.
• If the T&P valve does nothing then it is bad and you need to contact a plumber to have it replaced.

Remove sediment from the bottom of the tank with a “mini flush”

• This is important to prevent rust, corrosion and also improves the efficiency of the water heater.
• This mini-flush is not as beneficial as a full-flush, but a full-flush requires shutting down the water heater. Your plumber should perform a full-flush during a regular yearly maintenance inspection.
• For a mini-flush, place a bucket under the drain valve found near the bottom of the tank.
• Drain valve may have a handle or a short handle-less stem with a slot for a flat blade screwdriver.
• Close the valve by turning it clockwise and drain the bucket.

By utilizing a simple maintenance program you can lengthen the life and efficiency of your water heater. Below are some tips to help you get the most out of your water heater.

Use an insulation blanket. This will make your water heater more energy-efficient. It will keep the hot water hot longer and keep your hot water heater from having to reheat the water as often. This will save you money!

Regularly clean your water heater. This means cleaning all of the major components of the water heater; the enclosure, the water tank assembly, and the burner and control assembly. If you are unfamiliar with a water heater contact your plumber to do this.

Inspect the condition of the anode rod in order to prevent leaks from developing. If it is worn down you will need to have it replaced.

The burner assembly should be cleaned once a year. You can simply brush away cobwebs, dust and remove other debris that build up.

Flush the tank regularly to remove built up sediment.

Frequently check your water heater for leaks. It’s important to check the pipe connections, the valves, and underneath the unit.

Test the temperature/pressure relief valve once a year to make sure it is working. If you do not know how to do this, have a professional plumber test this valve. A pressure valve that is not functioning correctly can be very dangerous to you and your family.

Protect the floor under the water heater from water damage. You can do this by painting the area with water sealant. Also, you can install a specially designed drip pan that sits under the water heater to catch extra water, just make sure you select one that has drain out of the bottom.

Excess lint in your dryer and dryer venting builds up slowly and gradually – you don’t even realize it’s happening. Many homeowners think that by cleaning out the lint filter after each load that you are doing your job of maintaining your dryer. This is not the case! Cleaning out the lint filter is a very important part of dryer maintenance but to insure the safety of your family and home you need to clean out the drying venting as well.

A full load of wet clothes contains about a half gallon of water. Lint is created from the clothes as the water is removed during the drying process. This lint will build up in the crevices deep down inside the lint filter trap, and all along the dryer vent hose. When your lint filter becomes plugged, it restricts the outflow of heated air, which can cause your dryer to become overheated. As a result of this build up, your dryer is the # 1 source of fire in your home.

Importance of cleaning the lint filter. Cleaning the lint filter after each load should be part of your regular maintenance on your dryer.

• Insures optimum performance
• Reduces risk of fire in your home
• Cleaning the lint filter saves you money. Lint build-up in your dryer causes it to work longer and harder to dry your clothes, using more energy and costing you more money on your utility bills.

Warning signs that you have dangerous lint build-up.

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• Clothes won’t fully dry
• Clothes take longer and longer to dry
• Clothes are hotter than normal after a drying cycle
• The outside of the dryer gets very hot
• The outside exhaust vent flapper does not open very much. This indicates low exhaust velocity.
• Laundry room is feels humid than it usually does
• A burnt smell is noticeable in the laundry room

Prevention Tips

• Fires originate most often from two places, dryer venting and the lint trap/filter.
• Know where your lint filter is and clean it out after every load of laundry you do.
• Vacuum the lint trap housing cavity monthly.
• Clean behind the dryer where lint can build up.
• Check the outside dryer vent while the dryer is operating to make sure exhaust is escaping. You should feel a strong discharge of moist air. If you do not have a strong discharge of air you may have a blockage in the exhaust path and need to disconnect the ducting and inspect it for blockage.
• Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter.
• Once every couple years, have a qualified service person clean the interior of the dryer structure to minimize the amount of lint accumulation.
• Make sure to replace any plastic or metal foil, accordion-type ducting material as plastic is not approved for dryer use and some metal foil ducts may not be approved either. Only use flexible ductwork meeting UL 2158A for dryer venting.
• Take special care when laundering clothes containing VOC’s (volatile organic compound), such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils or stains. Wash heavily soiled clothing more than once to minimize the amount of volatile chemicals on clothes and if possible, hang to dry. If you have to use the dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a dry cycle with a cool down period. To prevent clothes from igniting after drying, do not leave the dried clothes in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket.

**Special Warnings

• Electric dryers are 2.5 times more likely to be the cause of fire than gas dryers. This is due to the higher heat discharge from an electric dryer that exacerbates the lint buildup problem.
• Even though the lint has been removed and the filter appears to be clean, certain fabric sheets used in the drying cycle, can cause a thin clear film to develop on the filter, forming a barrier which restricts the air from properly exhausting from your dryer. A quick test to see whether this film exists, is to take your filter to a sink and run water into it, while observing whether the flow can easily pass through the mesh, or just pools in the filter. If the flow is unable to pass through - a thorough filter cleaning is required. Use a very soft nylon brush and warm soapy water to clean your filter, and repeat the above test - the flow should no longer be restricted. Repeat this cleaning every six months.

These helpful tips will keep your family safe from a dangerous fire hazard, insure that your dryer continues to work at its optimal capacity, and helps extend the life of your dryer. Clearing a clogged drain can be a major hassle and one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. If there's a total blockage of the drain, then the sink, toilet, shower, or tub will be filled with water and the blockage will have to be removed through that. The chances of the homeowner being able to clear it themselves using household remedies diminishes.  Also, the more stubborn the blockage, the more likely that your plumbing expense is going to be bigger. The best bet is to avoid a clogged drain altogether!

Common causes of clogged drains.

The most common reason for clogged drains is neglect.  In the kitchen, drain problems often come from failing to use the drain strainer to prevent food from falling into the pipes, or from grease that accumulates in the drainpipes.  In the bathroom, using excessive toilet paper, flushing inappropriate paper items (like paper towels) or flushing tampons down the toilet, often results in a stoppage. In the bathroom sink and bathtubs, hair, hair gel, toothpaste, dental floss and other items can all cause drain problems.

Prevention is key.

• First, try not to let hair, dental floss, soap scum, oils, grease, food particles, paper, plastic or any foreign materials to enter your drain.
• Don't comb or brush hair in the shower or bath.
• Avoid styling hair over the sink to prevent hair clogged drains.
• Do not pour any grease down any drain. Pour leftover grease into cans and throw them into the garbage.
• When using a garbage disposal, run plenty of cold water to flush food particles that stick to the sides of the pipe.
• Don’t empty coffee grounds into the sink.
• Never dump any types of chemicals, such as paint or paint thinner down the drain.
• Use strainers in all bathroom drains to intercept hair before it enters the drain.
• Clean sink stoppers regularly.
• Make it a practice to pour a pot of boiling water down each drain once a month.
• Periodically empty one half cup of baking soda down each drain, followed by one half cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and let it stand for a few minutes; then pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. The baking soda and vinegar mixture dissolves fatty acids, which may be starting to collect.
• By using baking soda and vinegar it will also give your drain a fresh and clean smell.
• Do NOT put boiling water in your toilet or bidet. This fixture will crack and/or break.
• Do not flush excessive toilet paper, inappropriate paper items (like paper towels) or tampons down the toilet.
• Keep sewer pipes free of tree roots. If you have roots in your drain line it is best to hire a professional.

Whatever the cause, once a drain is thoroughly blocked, calling a plumber is the best solution. At this point, the expense of clearing your drain will depend on the cause.  A simple hairball or grease clog can often be cleared by using a local drain snake or rooter as long as the blockage isn't too far from a drain outlet. On the other hand if the blockage is deep in the main stack, or between the house and the city sewer line, power rooting or other measures may be needed.
Energy consumption for home air conditioning accounts for almost 5% of all the electricity produced in the U.S., at a cost to homeowners of over $15 billion, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). With the current state of the economy most of us are trying to cut costs in any way we can. You can cut your energy costs by increasing the efficiency of your system and decreasing your need for air conditioning.

Increase the Efficiency of Your System

• Have a professional technician inspect, clean, and tune your system every year.
  The condenser on your unit needs to be cleaned yearly by a professional. During a service call the refrigerant may need recharging. This correction can improve your system’s efficiency by as much as 20%. A technician will also measure airflow over the indoor coil. Correcting airflow rates can improve your efficiency by another 5-10%. Your duct system needs to be in good shape also. If it is in poor shape, proper sealing and insulation can reduce cooling energy by 10-15%.
   
• Change the air filter in your air conditioning unit monthly.
  The filter in you unit should never be allowed to get dirty enough to impede airflow. This will cause damage to the unit. You should at least check your filter monthly and follow the recommendations of the manufacturer for your particular model.
   
• Increase your comfort by using fans.
  With a ceiling fan you can be comfortable with your thermostat set higher (78° F). Each degree you are able to raise the thermostat can save you as much as 3-5% on your air conditioning costs.
   
• Reduce excessive use.
  Set the temperature on your thermostat up when you are not home. With a programmable thermostat you can do this easily and have it resume to a comfortable temperature before you return home. Always keep doors and windows closed when your air conditioner is operating. Minimize indoor humidity by running hot-water appliances in the evening and shower with the exhaust fan on.

Reduce Your Use of A/C

• Improve insulation and air sealing.
  This will prevent heat from entering your house and cool air from leaving. You should especially check the insulation levels and air leaks between your living space and the attic.
  
  
• Dispose of inefficient appliances. Appliances that are inefficient give off a lot of heat. Consider getting rid of old refrigerators, replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescents, and unplug electronic equipment when not in use.
   
• Increase air movement and ventilation.
  Use ceiling or house fans. A fan uses less energy than air conditioning and can increase the comfort level in your home by helping circulate air through your home.
   
• Use light exterior finishes.
  Using light-colored or other “cool” roofing and siding products can reduce your peak cooling demand by as much as 10-15%.
   
• Update or shade windows.
  If you are considering new windows, have a low-e glazing put on the windows that get the most summer sun. This will help block unwanted heat gain. Also use shades to protect against the hot summer sun. Consider horizontal trellises for your east and west-facing windows to keep the high-angle summer sun out. Protect south-facing windows with deciduous tress or climbing foliage. This will enable you to take advantage of the low-angle sun in the winter.

If you are a homeowner, at some point you are probably going to have a plumbing problem. Being prepared before, during and after a plumbing service call can help you save time and money!

Before you call a plumber. Have a list of any problems you are experiencing before you call. If you can group several plumbing problems together in one service call you’ll also save money. Try to reproduce the problem so you can show the plumber when he/she arrives. Also try to locate any original paperwork that can identify model or part numbers of the products involved.

Calling for service. Be very specific when talking to the plumber on the phone. Don’t tell them you have a leak in the bathroom if in actuality the toilet is where the leak is. Provide as much information over the phone that you can, such as size, part, model numbers or any previous history of this problem. Since there are so many brands and parts it helps the plumber to come prepared and allows them to complete your job quicker.

Before plumber arrives. If you have a pet it helps to remove or restrain them before the plumber arrives. Empty any cabinets or sinks where work will be performed. And also make sure to clear a path if work is being done on a water heater or in a crawl space.

During a service call. Explain as best you can what the problem is. Include in this conversation any previous work that has been done on this problem. This may help lower the plumbing bill and will certainly speed up the amount of time to complete the job.

Before plumber leaves. Make sure you inspect the work and that your expectations are met. Also don’t forget to ask any questions you may have on this or any future projects.

Water heating is the second highest energy cost in your house next to heating and cooling, not to mention a precious natural resource. Although the cost of water itself may not seem like much, if you have a leak you could be spending more money out of pocket than you realize and wasting gallons of water each day. With some simple tasks you can avoid both of these expenses and keep your home running smoothly while protecting one of our most valuable resources – water.

Below are some simple tips that are easy to do and help conserve resources and save money.

• Repair a leaky faucet immediately! A leaky faucet wastes gallons of water in a short period of time.
• Insulate your electric hot-water storage tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the thermostat.
• Insulate your gas or oil hot-water storage tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the water heater’s top, bottom, thermostat, or burner compartment; when in doubt, call a professional.
• Install non-aerating low-flow faucets and showerheads.
• Install a new GE heat pump integrated water heater. With its patented eHeat technology a family of four can save an average of $400 annually. It has a state-of-the-art digital control that allows homeowners to set the water temperature to an exact degree set point and offers a vacation mode. The byproduct of this water heater is a little cool air – who doesn’t want a cooler, drier garage? If you install the new GE heat pump integrated water heater before the end of 2010, you will also qualify for a Federal Tax Credit of 30 percent of the installation costs.
• Buy a new gas tankless water heater. While it may cost more initially than a standard water heater, the energy savings will continue during the lifetime of the appliance and pay for itself.
• Although most water heaters last 10-15 years, it’s best to start shopping for a new one if yours is more than 7 years old. Doing some research before your water heater fails will enable you to select one that most appropriately meets your needs.
• Lower the thermostat on your water heater; water heaters sometimes come from the factory with high temperature settings, but a setting of 115º F provides comfortable hot water for most uses.
• Drain a quart of water from your water tank every 3 months to remove sediment that impedes heat transfer and lowers the efficiency of your heater. The type of water tank you have determines the steps to take, so follow the manufacturer’s advice.
• Water heaters need to be drained once a year and serviced by a professional to ensure the water heater is functioning properly, efficiently and safely.
• If you heat with electricity and live in a warm and sunny climate, consider installing a solar water heater. The solar units are environmentally friendly and can now be installed on your roof to blend with the architecture of your house.
• Take more showers than baths. Bathing uses the most hot water in the average household. You use 15-25 gallons of hot water for a bath, but less than 10 gallons during a 5-minute shower.

Next to heating and cooling, heating water is the highest energy user in your home. On average, households will spend $400-600 per year on heating water. New technology enables homes to have instant hot water and decrease water heating costs by up to 50% by installing a Tankless Gas Water Heater.

Differences between Traditional and Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional Water Heaters. This type of water heater will heat and reheat the same water. A traditional water heater will heat and store water in a tank, usually 40-50 gallons at a time. If the temperature of the water in the tank drops below a certain point the water heater will turn on and heat it up again. This means that even when you don’t need hot water (at night when you’re sleeping) your water heater is still working (using energy) to help maintain the temperature of the water.

Tankless Water Heaters. This type of water heater only heats water when it is needed. A tankless water heater does not use a tank to store water, but rather “flash” heats the water when needed and provides it to you instantly. This hot water by demand system avoids the standby heat losses associated with tank storage water heaters while providing you with an endless supply of water.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

Save Money and Energy. With a traditional water heater you are paying to heat water 24 hours a day, even though you’re not using it all day. It consumes energy constantly in order to keep the water in the tank hot. A tankless water heater only heats the water you need - when you need it! Many tankless gas water heaters qualify for the Energy Star™ program and can save a typical family upwards of $100 per year on gas bills.

Endless Hot Water. A tankless water heater provides a continuous supply of hot water, even if you are the last one out of bed for a shower. The hot water is an endless supply and will be there when you need it with as much as you need.

Space Saving Design. Tankless water heaters are wall-mounted and do not take up any floor space. This saves you a whole closet’s worth of space!

Leave your worries behind! Tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of 20 years. This is much longer than a traditional water heater. And with a tankless water heater, you won’t have to worry about water damage from tank leakage anymore.

RIGHT NOW YOU ARE ELEGIBLE FOR A 30% TAX CREDIT (UP TO $1500), THROUGH THE FEDERAL STIMULUS PACKAGE, FOR INSTALLING A QUALIFIED HIGH EFFICIENCY TANKLESS WATER HEATER IN THE TAX YEARS OF 2009 AND 2010. For more information on federal tax benefits, go to: http://www.energystar.gov.

For more information about tankless water heaters, go to: www.bayonet-inc.com or www.rinnai.us.

A do-it-yourself energy audit is something easy you can do yourself. You’ll be saving energy and money by performing a few easy checks. When you perform an energy audit make sure to keep a checklist of areas you have inspected and any problems you have found. This list will help you to prioritize any tasks or upgrades you may be considering.

The main areas of an audit involve evaluating and upkeep of your heating and cooling system, evaluating your home’s current lighting, locating air leaks, and checking insulation.

Heating & Cooling Equipment – regular maintenance is key!

• Inspect your heating & cooling equipment annually. Contact a service technician.
• In a forced-air furnace, check your filters and replace them every month or two. They will need to be changed more frequently during times of high usage in summer & winter.
• If you have a unit that is more than 15 years old, you should consider replacing your system with a newer, energy efficient unit. This can greatly reduce your energy consumption.
• Check ductwork for dirt streaks, especially near the seams. This indicates air leaks that should be sealed. Contact a professional technician.
• Insulate any ducts or pipes that travel through unheated spaces.

Lighting – energy for lighting accounts for about 10% of your electric bill.

• Examine the wattage and size of light bulbs in your house. You may have 100-watt (or larger) bulbs where 60 or 75 watts would suffice.
• Consider replacing regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs in areas where lights are on for hours at a time.

Locating Inside Air Leaks – First make a list of potential air leaks. You can potentially save 5-30% per year by reducing drafts in your home, and your home will be more comfortable after!

• Gaps along baseboards
• Edge of flooring
• Junctures of the walls and ceilings
• Electrical outlets
• Switch plates
• Window frames
• Weather stripping around doors
• Fireplace dampers
• Attic hatches
• Wall- and window-mounted air conditioners
• Gaps around pipes an wires
• Windows and doors

If you have difficulty locating leaks, you can conduct a “basic building pressurization test”. First, close all exterior doors, windows and fireplace flues. Make sure to turn off any combustion appliances; this would include gas burning furnaces and water heaters. Turn on all exhaust fans (located in kitchen and bathrooms) or use a large window fan to suck the air out of the rooms. This will increase the infiltration of air through crack and leaks, making them easier to detect. You can use an incense stick whereby the moving air will cause the smoke to waver or a damp hand which will make any drafts feel cool on your hand.

Locating Outside Air Leaks – Inspect all areas where two different building materials meet. Plug or caulk holes or penetrations for faucets, pipes, electric outlets and wiring. Seal cracks and holes in mortar, foundation and siding.

• All exterior corners
• Where siding and chimneys meet
• Areas where the foundation and bottom of exterior brick and siding meet
• Exterior windows and doors

Insulation – Heat loss through the ceiling and walls of your home can be very large if the insulation levels are less than the recommended minimum.

• Attic hatch – make sure it is as insulated as rest of attic and is weather-stripped and closed tightly.
• Attic – make sure opening for items like pipes, ductwork, and chimneys are sealed.
• Vapor Barrier – reduces the amount of water vapor that can pass through the ceiling. If one doesn’t exist you may consider painting the interior ceilings with vapor barrier paint.
• Wall insulation – check an outlet on an exterior wall. Make sure the circuit breaker to the outlet is turned off. Determine the plug is not “hot” by plugging in a lamp or radio. Once this outlet is not getting any electricity, remove the cover plate from the outlet and gently probe into the wall with a screwdriver. If you get resistance you have insulation there.
• Water heater, hot water pipes and furnace dusts – should all be insulated.

Here is a helpful site when you are conducting your audit:

Energy Star Do I have Mold Growing in My Home?
Outdoors molds play a part in the natural environment by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves or dead trees. Inside, however, mold growth should be avoided! Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores, which are invisible to the naked eye as they float through the indoor and outdoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. Molds only grow when there is moisture present.

The interior of your ductwork and air conditioning equipment provides the perfect environment for mold growth, especially in an air conditioner’s drain-pan where it is dark, damp, and filled with nutrients. As mold and bacteria grow on coils and in drain pans, they are distributed through the ducts to occupied spaces. The result can be like blowing air through a sewer and then into your home. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 60% of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) problems and allergies may be mold-related.

Below are the affects of mold in your home and some tips and techniques if you suspect you have a mold problem.

Affects of Mold in Your Home
Health. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Allergic reactions to mold are common. They can be immediate or delayed. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people.

Maintenance Problems. Molds create a troublesome maintenance problem. Its activity in your heating, cooling and ventilating (HVAC )system results in dirty coils, a loss of airflow, loss of heat exchange efficiency, dirty and sometimes plugged drain pans, and excessive energy use.

Tips & Techniques

• Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
   
• If you suspect that the (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold (it is part of an identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold near the intake system) contact a HVAC technician.
   
• Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can greatly reduce the possibility of mold. During regular maintenance the places where mold grows, the coils and the drain pans are cleaned out.
   
• If you have mold on the coils of your HVAC system or drain pan then chances are it is spreading through your duct system. Contact a HVAC technician to do a thorough cleaning of your ducts.
   
• Scrub mold off of hard surfaces with detergent and water and dry completely.
   
• Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away is they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so it can be very difficult if not impossible to remove completely.
   
• Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold.
   
• Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surface before painting, otherwise the paint is likely to peel.
   
• If you are unsure about an area where mold is present, consult an expert.

Heating a home is the largest energy expense in most homes, and it accounts for two-thirds of annual energy bills in cold climates. Experts are predicting the cost of heating your home, both with electricity and natural gas, to rise again just as it did this past winter. In anticipation of this, even if your older furnace runs, from an economic standpoint it would be wise to replace it. If your furnace is in good shape there are some tips that might help you save some extra money on your utility bills.

Below are some tips for buying a new furnace/boiler as well as tips to help lower your monthly heating bills.

Tips for Buying a New Furnace/Boiler
If you live in a cold climate, it usually makes sense to invest in the highest efficiency system available. In milder climates with lower annual heating costs, the extra investment required to go from 80% to 90%-95% efficiency may be hard to justify. When shopping for high-efficiency furnaces and boilers, look for dependability. Buy a system with a good warranty and a reputable company to back it up. When buying gas and oil systems, specify sealed combustion. Sealed-combustion appliances bring outside air directly into the burner and exhaust flue gases (combustion products) directly to the outside, without the need for a draft hood or damper. They generally burn more efficiently and pose no risk of introducing dangerous combustion gases into your house. With nonsealed-combustion appliances, back-drafting of combustion gases can be a big problem, especially in tightly-sealed modern homes.

Tips for Lowering Your Monthly Utility Bill

• Set your thermostat as low as it is comfortable.
   
• Keep the temperature fairly constant. Frequent temperature changes cause the unit to cycle on and off and utilize more energy. Setting back the temperature at night, however, is recommended.
   
• Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as needed.
   
• Oil-fired boilers and gas-fire equipment should be professionally cleaned and tuned once a year.
   
• Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters and radiators as needed; make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
   
• Use kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans wisely; in just one hour, these fans can pull out a houseful of warmed or cooled air. Turn fans off as soon as they have done the job.
   
• Keep draperies and shades open on south-facing windows during the heating season to allow sunlight to enter your home; close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.
   
• Check your ducts for air leaks. First look for sections that should be joined but have separated and then look for obvious holes.
   
• Do not use duct tape to repair leaky ducts. Standard duct tape has been shown unreliable in sealing duct leaks. Various mastics or non-cloth-backed tapes are preferable. Contact a professional to help with any duct issues.

 

Water & Energy Saving Tips
Next to heating and cooling, water heating is typically the largest energy user in the home. As homes have become more and more energy efficient during the last 20 years, the percentage of energy used for water heating has steadily increased.

Conserving water can extend the life of your septic system by reducing soil saturation, and reducing any pollution due to leaks. Overloading municipal sewer systems can also cause untreated sewage to flow to lakes and rivers. The smaller the amount of water flowing through these systems, the lower the likelihood of pollution. In addition to saving money on your utility bill, water conservation helps prevent water pollution in nearby lakes, rivers and local watersheds.


Below are some helpful tips:

• Repair leaky faucets promptly; a leaky faucet wastes gallons of water in a short period.
   
• Insulate your electric hot-water storage tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the thermostat.
   
• Insulate your gas or oil hot-water storage tank and pipes, but be careful not to cover the water heater's top, bottom, thermostat, or burner compartment; when in doubt, contact a professional.
   
• Install non-aerating low-flow faucets and showerheads.
   
• Buy a new water heater. While it may cost more initially than a standard water heater, the energy savings will continue during the lifetime of the appliance.
   
• Although most water heaters last 10-15 years, it's best to start shopping for a new one if yours is more than 7 years old. Doing some research before your heater fails will enable you to select one that most appropriately meets your needs.
   
• Lower the thermostat on your water heater; water heaters sometimes come from the factory with high temperature settings, but a setting of 115°F provides comfortable hot water for most uses.
   
• Drain a quart of water from your water tank every 3 months to remove sediment that impedes heat transfer and lowers the efficiency of your heater. The type of water tank you have determines the steps to take, so follow the manufacturer's advice or contact a professional.
   
• If you heat with electricity and live in a warm and sunny climate, consider installing a solar water heater. The solar units are environmentally friendly and can now be installed on your roof to blend with the architecture of your house.
   
• Take more showers than baths. Bathing uses the most hot water in the average household. You use 15-25 gallons of hot water for a bath, but less than 10 gallons during a 5-minute shower.