The Energy Star Label Takes The Guesswork Out of Shopping for Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling Equipment!

With so much emphasis on improving energy-efficiency, minimizing utility bills and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, the Energy Star seal has come to the forefront of the environmentally (and fiscally) responsible homeownership movement. But what exactly is the Energy Star program and how does a product receive the Energy Star endorsement?


What is Energy Star?

Energy Star is a program sponsored by the federal government that tests, reviews, and certifies major home appliances, equipment and entertainment devices for energy efficiency -- including HVAC equipment such as furnaces and air conditioners. The main goals of the Energy Star program are to help consumers save money on utility costs and to reduce our impact on the environment.

The Energy Star program was established to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants released when fossil fuels are burned to produce energy. The Energy Star program is also aimed to make it easier for consumers to shop for and purchase products that are better for the environment without sacrificing quality, performance, and state-of-the-art features.


How Does the EPA Determine a Product’s Energy Star Eligibility?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets forth Energy Star efficiency standards and grants the label to products that meet these requirements. The EPA has developed the Energy Star specifications based on a set of key principles:

• Product categories must contribute substantial energy savings in most areas of the country.
• Products must deliver both features and performance customers want, as well as demonstrated energy efficiency.
• If the product is more expensive than comparable, less efficient models, buyers must be able to recoup the initial investment in energy efficiency through savings on utility bills in a reasonable length of time.
• Energy efficiency is achieved through readily available, non-proprietary technology offered by an array of manufacturers.
• The energy consumption and performance of the product must be able to be measured and confirmed with testing.
• Affixing the Energy Star label would effectively set products apart and make them more visible to consumers.

Does the EPA Ever Revise Energy Star Requirements?

Usually, when the market share of Energy Star rated products in a particular category -- such as refrigerators, televisions, or dishwashers -- reaches 50 percent or more, the EPA will consider revising standards in that category. Such market saturation indicates that manufacturers are easily able to comply with Energy Star specifications and that perhaps the requirements are not as stringent as they could be. This will usually prompt the EPA to take a closer look at categorical qualifications and make changes if necessary.

Some other factors that may impact a decision to revisit Energy Star specifications include:

• Adjustments in the federal government’s minimum standards for energy efficiency
• Technological advances in energy efficiency that would result in even greater energy savings if Energy Star ratings were changed
• Availability of products
• Substantial problems with consumers’ expected energy savings or inconsistencies with promised savings
• Quality or performance issues
• Problems with research or testing procedures
  

How Reliable are Energy Star Ratings?

Because the EPA reviews Energy Star specifications frequently, you can trust that purchasing an Energy Star rated appliance or other device ensures that you’re getting an efficient, money-saving product. The next time you’re in the market for an electronic device, shop the Energy Star label and you may be pleasantly surprised by your next utility bill.

This is especially true with HVAC (Heating, Ventiliating and Cooling) equipment. Today's heating and air conditioning systems are much, much more energy efficient than those made just 10 years ago. When you purchase and install heating and air conditioning equipment that carry the Energy Star seal, you can be confident that they not only meet but exceed the government's requirements and recommendations for energy efficiency ratings.

Horizon Services is proud to sell and install only Energy Star rated heating and cooling equipment furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers and water heaters. Contact Horizon Services today to discuss Energy Star rated equipment from many of the industry's most trusted HVAC manufacturers including: Lennox, Trane, Rheem, York, Comfortmaker, Janitrol, American Standard, Carrier and Bryant.


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If your home has a central heating and air conditioning system, maintaining the ductwork is essential to keeping your home comfortable and healthy. Neglected ducts can harbor high levels of air pollutants, circulating them inside your home and contributing to conditions like asthma, allergies, sinus irritation, and other respiratory problems. Inefficient ducts can also impact your energy usage and may cause a significant increase in your monthly utility bills.

Many homeowners think that simply cleaning their ducts will take care of any air quality problems inside their homes. This just isn’t the case. While keeping ducts clean is important, far more significant is what’s going into the ductwork. Harmful fumes from paint and cleaning supplies, tobacco smoke, and even cooking are some of the main causes of poor indoor air quality. If you are having trouble with the quality of air circulating through your home, take a closer look at any of your daily activities that could be contributing to the problem.

Still, cleaning ductwork is important. Mold and odors caused by deceased vermin behind the walls of your home can seep into ducts and interfere with air quality. When cleaning ductwork be sure to replace the air filter, remove any foreign objects, and repair any noticeable cracks, tears, or weak spots. A professional HVAC technician can thoroughly clean your system and make necessary repairs or recommendations to improve the quality of air inside your home.

An impeccable duct system is nothing without a good support team: well insulated windows, doors, attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Without the proper joints and sealants, all the warm or cool air pumped out through your home’s ductwork will be lost to the outdoors. This not only affects the efficiency of your heating and cooling system, but it also raises your monthly utility costs. Be sure that all windows and doors are properly fitted and sealed, and that your home is adequately insulated.

Perhaps the most under-appreciated part of any heating and cooling system is the air return ducts. Proper return ducts ensure consistent, comfortable heating and air conditioning which improves ventilation, air quality, and the overall temperature inside your home. If the air return ducts aren’t functioning properly it can even force your furnace or air conditioning unit to work harder; this can increase wear and tear on your equipment and may shorten the overall life of your system.

Because air return ducts are a complex part of your home’s heating and cooling system, it’s best to leave them to the professionals. If you notice that the rooms in your house with outside walls are often a different temperature than the rest of the home, or that your energy bills are going up even though you haven’t changed your usage habits, it’s a sign that you may be having trouble with your return ducts. It would be wise to call in a professional technician to check things out.

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Plumbing DIYers...Take the Time To Do It Right!

If you do any of your own simple plumbing repairs, you know that tightening plumbing fittings is not always the easiest task on your to-do list. Taking your time and following these basic tips will help you turn a wrench like a pro without damaging your plumbing fixtures.

1. Hand Tight is Right. It seems to go against common sense, but plumbing fittings don’t have to be super tight in order to function properly. In fact, pipes should only be hand tight to help aid the flow of water throughout your home. The unique construction and configuration of pipes means they are made to be tightened just enough; making them super tight can actually prevent water from flowing properly. Over-tightening will also warp the rubber fittings inside the pipes over time, which can increase the risk of leaks. Turn a plumbing fitting only until you feel it tighten, then stop. Continuing to turn past that point can lead to trouble.
   


2. No Stripping. Plumbing fittings look like extra large bolts. Inside each bolt are threads that allow the fitting to screw onto the pipes to create a tight seal. If you tighten the fittings too much, you may strip the threads inside the fitting or on the outside of the pipe. As with any household screw, once the threads are stripped it’s nearly impossible to get the fitting to tighten on the pipe. This makes it more likely that a leak will develop, and it also increases the chance of a cracked or burst pipe in extreme weather or high water pressure.
   


3. Lefty Loosey, Righty Tighty. This isn’t just a playground rhyme; it really works. Turning a screw, opening a jar or bottle, operating a faucet, and adjusting a plumbing fitting all function on the same principle. Turning to the left loosens the plumbing fitting; turning to the right tightens it. Remembering this simple rhyme can prevent a bad seal and stripped fittings. It’s also handy in a pinch if you need to shut off the water supply quickly.
   


4. Plumber’s Tape is Your Friend. One of a plumber’s most trusted secret weapons is common plumber’s tape. It is usually made from silicone and helps create a stronger, waterproof seal on pipes and fittings. Using plumber’s tape around fittings while you tighten them will prevent over-tightening, protect against leaks, and ensure a good seal. Plumber’s tape is available at most home improvement or hardware stores in the plumbing section.
   


5. Keep Pipe Fittings Warm. If you’re working on exterior pipes located outside your home, it’s wise to keep plumbing fittings wrapped in magnetic insulation. Water that is allowed to leak or spray from loose fittings outside in cold weather increases the likelihood of freezing, cracking, and bursting—which means big trouble inside your home, too. Wrapping outdoor fittings to protect them from harsh weather will help maintain a constant temperature and ensure your pipes stay in good repair. You can also find pipe insulation at home improvement, hardware, or plumbing supply stores.
   

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According to HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) industry data, the average American homeowner spends approximately $1300 a year on heating and cooling bills. While green overhauls are all the rage in the home improvement and construction industry, it’s not necessary to gut your home’s existing heating and cooling system. There are many ways to make your home more energy efficient without breaking the bank. Making a few simple changes and taking the time to maintain your current HVAC system can result in hundreds or thousands of dollars saved on utilities.

One of the best ways to ensure your home’s energy-efficiency is to choose Energy Star appliances. These machines have been certified by the government’s Energy Star program, which assures they meet high standards of efficiency and reliability. If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, air conditioner, television, microwave, or other major appliance, look for the Energy Star label to guarantee you’re getting the most efficient device with a low operating cost.

Maintenance is the best way to prevent undue wear and tear on your home’s heating and cooling system. Not only will regular maintenance keep your HVAC system running at optimum performance, but it will detect problems or malfunctions before they become major issues.

To keep your HVAC system running as it should, follow these basic tips:

There IS Sump-thing You Can Do About Your Sump Pump!

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Improved Air Flow Saves Energy, Saves Money, Improves Comfort

Environmentally responsible home improvements not only save the planet and leave more cash in your wallet, but they can also help improve the health of your home. If you’re overwhelmed by green home improvement options, keep it simple by installing or upgrading your home ventilation system and fans.

Proper ventilation is one of the best ways to improve your home’s indoor air quality. This can make a big difference if anyone in your family suffers from allergies, asthma, or other breathing conditions. Plus...vents and fans keep air circulating through your home so that warm and cold air are more evenly distributed; your heating and air conditioning systems don't have to work as hard or as often.


Green Fan Options

Install a Ceiling Fan: Ceiling fans are one of the easiest, most affordable options if you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency. They move warm air throughout your house during the winter and take some of the work load off your air conditioner in the summer.

Install a Whole House Fan: Whole house fans are another affordable option. These powerful fans are installed near the attic, and cool your home by moving hot air up and out through the attic. Cooler air is drawn in through open windows. In warm climates, whole house fans can effectively supplement air conditioning; in cooler climates they can eliminate the need for an air conditioner altogether.


Green Ventilation

Install a Kitchen Hood Vented to the Outdoors: A kitchen range hood helps remove cooking odors, exhaust, and excess moisture from your home. While some range hoods vent to the attic, a hood that vents to the outdoors is better for your home’s structural integrity and indoor air quality.

Install a Bathroom Fan Vented to the Outdoors: Bathrooms are obviously the number one source of harmful mold and airborne bacteria that can infect the air you breathe. A bathroom exhaust fan, vented to the outdoors, will remove moisture from your home, cutting down on mold and mildew growth.

Install a Clothes Dryer Vent: Clothes dryers release tons of moisture into the air as they dry your clothes. This air circulates around your home, carrying chemicals from laundry detergents, toxins from synthetic fabrics, and deadly carbon monoxide. A properly vented dryer releases air outdoors, removing these harmful and potentially dangerous airborne pollutants from your home. To compliment a vented dryer, you may also want to consider installing an exhaust fan in your laundry or utility room.


Natural, Energy-Efficient Ventilation is Healthy Ventilation!

Anytime you can infuse your home with fresh outdoor air you are helping to improve the quality of the air you breathe. Here are more green ways to improve the health of air inside your home:

Install Windows and Skylights: Even more effective than fans are operable windows and skylights. Improve your home’s ventilation by simply opening a window. When you open windows on both sides of your home you can create a cross breeze that allows air to flow through your home more easily.

Design Green: If possible, consider the direction of wind against your home and the local weather conditions when designing the structure or replacing windows and doors. Aligning windows and doors to prevailing breezes lets you make the most of natural ventilation.




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Before the Mercury Plummets, Take Some Preventive Plumbing Action!

Winter time can wreak havoc on your home's pipes and plumbing system, especially in Horizon Services' service area of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland where temperatures can yo-yo between moderate to sub-zero and back all within a week...and often do. Freezing and fluctuating temperatures can cause pipes to crack. Melting snow and ice can lead to leaks, flooding and structural damage all over your house.

Fortunately, there are many things that homeowners can do themselves to prevent damage and ensure that their home plumbing systems continue to work as efficiently as possible. A regular round of checks that can be easily carried out will help maintain the long-term optimal working of the plumbing system and save on costly plumbing repair bills.

Especially as winter approaches, make sure that any outside hose pipes are disconnected from faucets and that the water leading out to these faucets is turned off. If water in the pipes or hoses freezes, it will expand, causing hoses and pipes to crack or even burst. This can lead to very serious leaks and flooding. This can happen to plastic pipes as well as metal.

The shut-down of external pipes can be made easier if your home has shut-off valves installed, which will close them down and drain the water off. Once effectively disconnects, the exterior faucets can then be protected from the cold weather with lagging.

If you have pipes situated in areas of the home that are not heated, such as basements, attics or garages, these can be insulated from temperature extremes using heat tape or foam insulated sleeves. These materials are available at most hardware stores.

It's also important to keep as much heat inside your home to prevent pipes from freezing, especially in those cold rooms. To increase energy efficiency, seal doors and windows from drafts using materials you can buy in any home centers.

Water heaters work extra hard during the winter, so check yours to make sure that it is performing up to speed. Flushing it out periodically to get rid of any build-up of sediments, as these cause corrosion and greatly effect efficiency and longevity of the unit. Drain off a few gallons using the faucet situated near the base of the unit. Also check the pressure release valve, which should snap smartly back into place when lifted after allowing a spurt of water to the drain. If it is slack, get somebody in to replace it.

The water heater’s thermostatic control should be set according to the season. In winter you’ll want optimum performance, of course, at about 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Going away for a couple days over the winter? If you're not regularly running water, it can collect in pipes and freeze, especially if you lose power or the temperature takes a nosedive. It's a good idea to leave some warm water running at a slow drip...just so it keeps moving through your pipes. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set it to turn on periodically while you are away to make sure that no room gets too cold.

In addition, you may also have to clean debris such as dead leaves from gutters and around the downspouts to allow for better drainage after the coming thaw. Clear ice and snow away from outside walls to prevent snow melt from getting inside your home. Make sure snow doesn't accumulate near vents. And if you can, try clearing ice and snow from roofs before it accumulaes too heavily. Many hardware stores carry telescoping rakes that can reach rooftops without having to use a ladder. You can also toss a few thermal cakes up onto your roof to chemically stimulate snow and ice melt.

To winterize your plumbing, you need only a very basic set of tools to maintain your home plumbing system, available from any home center. A pipe wrench is probably the most important, enabling you to get a good grip on pipes and fittings. A pair of pliers will help you to adjust nuts and bolts, but these can damage fittings if you slip up, so get some smooth sleeves to fit. These tools are fine for the small maintenance jobs you’re likely to be carrying out, but for bigger home plumbing jobs it’s best to get the professionals in, otherwise things could take a turn for the worse.


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Be Heat Vigilant and Observant This Fall and Winter!

We tend to take our hot water and home heating for granted, but when something goes wrong with our home heating systems, we can easily go into panic mode. The professionals need to be contacted in some cases, but for a lot of smaller matters it’s possible with a few basic tools and some elementary knowledge of how the system works to fix the problem ourselves and save time as well as money. Here are the some of the things you need to be aware of and be prepared for before and during heating season.

The main components of any home heating system are the heat source, the system for distributing the heat and finally the thermostat which controls the temperature. A breakdown of any of these three will seriously interfere with your comfort and convenience.

A simple loss of power may be the cause of a failure in the furnace or boiler which supplies the heat in the first place. The fuel needed by the unit for it to work may not be reaching it. Even if it is reaching it, ignition may be the problem in the case of gas or oil. Or everything may be fine with the heat source but the heat itself is not reaching its destination, which would point to a problem either with the blower that gets the heat from the source or else the distribution system that carries it around the house. A fault in the thermostat will cause the unit not to switch itself off and on as it should in the heating cycle to control the level of heat in the house. So isolating the problem is the first step to solving it.

First off, check the power source for any blown fuses, and then try resetting the furnace or boiler using the reset button near the motor. The thermostat may not be set to the proper adjustment, so try raising or lowering it to see whether the unit will then activate. Check whether the pilot light is lit and that the gas supply is on, or in the case of oil that there is an adequate supply of it.

With gas heating systems you need to be especially careful, as the air quality is a major factor when these are replaced or undergo maintenance. By-products from the combustion process can damage your health, and ensuring that the chimney is unblocked and that there is proper ventilation for the gas heating system can help ensure no leakage of these harmful products into the home environment.

Keep an eye on the vent connection pipe and the condition of your chimney, as there is inevitable deterioration as time passes and repairs can be costly. In the case of the boiler or furnace, check the control settings for their provision of optimal temperature and water levels, and check for any cracks in the combustion chamber. Clean the blower and remove any debris such as soot that may have accumulated.

Just making a few regular checks to your boiler or furnace, and the distribution system of vents or pipes, will help maintain their condition and ensure a longer effective life.


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Chemical drain cleaners are useful for clearing all sorts of tough clogs. However there are a variety of risks and dangers with using these chemicals to clear your drains. Many of these chemicals emit harsh fumes that can be harmful if they are inhaled. Many can burn and scar if they come in contact with your skin. And they can damage clothing, floors, counters...even your pipes themselves if not used properly. The following tips will help you use these drain cleaners safely.


Avoid the Most Harmful Cleaners

Some chemical drain de-clogging agents use lye or acid. These harsh chemicals are not only harmful to your health, but they can also contaminate waste water and cause damage to PVC piping. If you must use a cleaner with acid or lye, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask. Ventilate the room as much as possible, and store them properly when you’re finished—opt for cleaners with a child-proof safety cap or put them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.


Always Read the Label

Not all drain cleaners are created equal, and using the wrong cleaner can cause major headaches. Some cleaners can eat through your plumbing, some can damage your septic system, and some can cause serious burns if they come in contact with your skin. Before you use a cleaner, read the label thoroughly to ensure that the cleaner is safe for your intended usage. You’ll also want to look for any label recommendations about safety and cleanup in case of an accidental spill.


Prevent Clog Build-Up

Do your best to keep grease and debris out of your drains and you won’t have to rely on a chemical drain cleaner to remove clogs quite so often. You’ll also cut down on unpleasant odors and help your pipes work more efficiently. A simple salt water solution, poured down the drain every couple of weeks, will flush out grease and eliminate odors from showers, sinks, and garbage disposals.


Consider These Drain Cleaning Alternatives

Harsh chemical cleaners are not the only option you have to cure a clogged drain. There are several alternatives that are just as effective without the potentially harmful side effects.

A sewer jetter sprays an adjustable, high-pressure stream of water down your drains, powering away clogs quickly and without harsh chemicals. Because you’re only using water, there’s no chance of damaging pipes or fixtures or of contaminating your home with noxious fumes. You can purchase a sewer jetter at most plumbing supply stores or large home improvement warehouses. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before use.

There are also plenty of natural drain cleaning methods. One of the most effective uses plain baking soda and white vinegar. First, remove any standing water in the basin or around the drain. Pour about ½ cup of ordinary baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. The two substances will react inside the pipes, dissolving clogs and allowing water to flow freely again. You can repeat these steps as many times as necessary to remove the clog. While the smell of vinegar might not be the most pleasant, it’s certainly non-toxic and much better for your plumbing, your home, and your health than any harsh chemical drain cleaner.


Your Best Bet: Call a Drain Cleaning Professional

Are you a chemist? Do you really know what happens when this chemical comes in contact with that substance? The thing about chemicals is that they produce chemical reactions. You've seen enough mad scientist movies to know that chemical reactions are almost never mild!

Plumbers and drain cleaning professionals aren't chemists either. That's why they generally only go the chemical route as a last resort.

If you have a clogged drain that's so bad that you need to resort to chemicals, the problem is probably beyond your scope. At this point, call a plumbing and drain contractor such as Horizon Services. We have an arsenal of non-chemical tools and means at our disposal that can safely remove virtually any clog. And in that rare instance when chemicals are required, our highly trained drain cleaning pros know how to safely and cleanly mix and pour the chemical without harming your pipes, kitchens or bathrooms.


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It's Not Just On Your Bread...It Could Be Growing in Your House!

Take a close look at your walls, floors and vents or inside closets. Especially in basements or areas that are out of the way and more prone to moisture exposure. See some streaks, spots or unusual coloration? Could be yellow, green, brown or black in color? If so, there just may be a fungus among us...mold.

Most of us know that old food can get moldy. And we've all seen what mold can do to an old pair of sneakers. But not everyone knows that these freaky fungi can get into and take root inside your home. And the results of mold infestation can be devastating.

Mold is certainly unsightly. It can even smell bad. Aww...let face it: mold is downright gross! But more importantly, mold is bad for your health. When mold grows excessively inside your home, it can seriously affect air quality. Airborne mold spores float through your home and are inhaled. This can lead to a variety of respiratory illnesses like bronchitis and persistent cough, as well as chronic conditions like allergies and asthma. The more mold you have in your home, the more likely it is that you or someone in your family will develop one of these health issues.


Mold Growth is Widespread

There are hundreds of different mold varieties, and these can be found virtually anywhere. Even if your home is spotless, mold could be growing in unseen places like behind walls, under floors, inside insulation, in ductwork, or along window sills. In these cases, you may not know about the mold for months, or even years. This allows growth to steadily increase over time; once you are aware of the problem it could mean thousands of dollars in cleaning and repairs.

Obviously, widespread mold growth is a problem that should be handled as soon as possible. However, even small amounts of mold can lead to breathing problems and illnesses for everyone in your home—pets, too.

Mold thrives in warm, moist, dark environments. Old or faulty HVAC systems can produce an environment where mold can grow. So can leaky pipes, poor drainage or any problem that allows water and moisture to accumulate.


Why Mold is So Harmful

• Volatile Organic Compounds: All types of mold produce substances called volatile organic compounds (VOC). These are naturally-occurring chemicals that are found in a variety of things used in the home. Some of the most common volatile organic compounds are generated by paints, household cleaners, and adhesives. The VOC in mold creates that distinct, musty odor that we usually associate with mold or mildew growth. The smell alone can decrease the quality of air inside your home and will gradually worsen if the problem is not eliminated. Research has shown that humans who are exposed to a high concentration of indoor mold growth experience a wide range of symptoms, from allergic reactions to issues with the central nervous system including nausea, headaches, and diminished mental capacity.


• Allergens: Every type of mold also produces allergens. Mold grows in tiny clusters called spores. These spores release invisible toxins that travel through the air inside your home and can trigger allergic reactions when they are inhaled. These reactions are the same as you might experience with any other environmental allergy: itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; coughing; nasal congestion and sinus pressure; and even skin rashes.

Prevent Mold Growth

For visible mold, clean the area with an antibacterial cleaner or a common bleach and water solution. This will get rid of existing mold and will prevent new growth. Remember that mold and mildew thrive in warm, moist places so be sure that your bathrooms are vented properly, open windows whenever possible to allow fresh air into your home, and never leave damp clothing or linens lying around.

If you suspect mold is growing in unseen areas of your home, hire a professional to perform a thorough assessment. You may need to contract with a professional cleaning service or make some repairs if the problem is serious.



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