Shopping for a dishwasher? Think about one with a stainless-steel tub. Many dishwasher manufacturers now make–or are introducing–models that have durable stainless-steel tubs. These can’t compete in price with models utilizing plastic tubs, but they are quieter, easier to maintain and more efficient during drying cycles because the metal...
energy saving tip
Ice Dams
They may make for a pretty winter scene, but ice dams are damaging. Ice dams occur when a snow-covered roof over the attic is warmer than the eaves—the overhang of a roof. If the roof is warm, it will cause the snow to melt and run under snow along...
Energy Savings Checklist
This is a great check list to help with home energy savings. Consider that you can save $300-$500 per year by addressing these simple items. Does my attic scuttle have weatherstripping to create an air seal? Does my shower head output less than 2 gallons of water per minute?...
Energy-Saving Compact Flourescent Light Bulbs
Change a light bulb, save energy. Simply by using one 13-Watt Compact Fluorescent Light bulb (CFL) in replacement of one 60-Watt incandescent light bulb, not only would you have prevented a significant amount of toxins from pouring into our environment, you will save money. Even though they are often...
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Are geothermal heat pump worth the cost? Short answer: YES. Recently a client of mine asked me about the basics of Geothermal Heat Pumps (also known as ground source heat pumps). While the initial expense associated with the installation is about twice (or more) than a typical air to...
Inspecting a Home for Water Damage
Small nuisance or major home damage? From broken pipes to leaking appliances, water damage can wreak havoc, destroying a home, personal property, and irreplaceable family heirlooms. In many cases significant water damage can be avoided with routine maintenance and assistance from qualified contractors. Early detection could mean the difference...
Single Stage vs. Two Stage Furnace
Most furnaces either have all of their burners lit or all turned off. However, over 80% of the time, it is not necessary to have all of the burners of the furnace lit to meet the heat demands. Having all of the burners lit when it is not necessary...
Furnace Energy Saving Tip
Today, new furnaces are generally between 80-96% efficient. If a furnace is 96% efficient, it simply means that 96% of the energy that goes into the furnace is converted into heat. Older furnaces in 15+-year-old homes, can be as low as 60% efficient. Thus, upgrading to a 96% efficient...
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