Replacing your old heating and cooling system with a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system is a challenging decision for most homeowners. Heating and cooling can account for nearly half of the energy used in your home. You want to maximize your comfort, but you don't want to pay through the nose. The right system may cost more upfront, but save money and reduce utility bills over time. The wrong system may need constant repair, under perform or die before its time. So much to consider!

When it's time to install a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, make an educated decision with the help of these simple suggestions:


Find the Right HVAC Contractor
Getting the right contractor is key to getting a quality installation. Make sure the contractor you choose has at least several years of experience and can provide references. Make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured. Be sure to ask for a written contract of all work in advance. And always choose a contractor’s whose service and installation technicians are certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE). NATE is an industry-supported certification for heating and air conditioning technicians. NATE-certified HVAC technicians have met the nation's highest standards for HVAC training and knowledge.

Here are some additional things your heating and air conditioning contractor should do BEFORE you sign a contract:

• Measure existing ductwork to be sure it can handle the increased air flow of a new system
• Do a complete Load Calculation that will take into consideration window and vent locations as well as existing hot or cold areas of your home.
• Discuss with you any indoor air quality issues such as allergies, humidity levels in your home and any additional features you would like in your new home comfort system.
• Present you with several system options, not just one.
• Give you a written guarantee that your new heating and air conditioning system will perform as promised.

Bottom line: all heating and air conditioning contractors are not alike. In the end, it’s the contractor who will make the biggest difference in how the installation or replacement goes.


Properly Size Your Heating and Air Conditioning System
When installing or replacing heating and air conditioning cooling equipment, bigger isn’t always better and one-size does not fit all. Oversized HVAC equipment will cost more up front, consume more energy, provide inadequate cooling and humidification, and ultimately, need to be replaced prematurely. And don’t assume your current heating and air conditioning system is the right size either; today’s HVAC equipment is more efficient than those 10 years or older and your original system may have been sized improperly. Efficiency, not size is what you're after. Ask your HVAC contractor to thoroughly measure your home and calculate the "size" of the system using Manual J, or an equivalent industry-acceptable calculation tool.


Proper Installation is Crucial
One of the biggest factors in getting the best performance out of your new heating or air conditioning system depends on how well it is installed. Shoddy installation accounts for over half of the HVAC service calls and most customer dissatisfaction during the first year of operation. At a minimum, make sure your HVAC installation technician performs the following:

• Installs equipment in easily accessible areas for easy maintenance.
• Tests for adequate airflow and verifies that the cooling system has been charged with the correct amount of refrigerant.
• Conducts a combustion safety test after ducts are sealed to be sure all gas or oil-burning appliances are working properly.
• Replaces indoor and outdoor coils for maximum efficiency.

Sealing and Insulation
Central air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces rely on a system of ducts to circulate air throughout your home. Heated and cooled air can easily escape through gaps between duct joints. Ask your contractor to seal and insulate ducts throughout your home; this can improve your heating and cooling system’s efficiency by up to 20 percent!


Heating and Air Conditioning System Maintenance
Your contractor should be available to do annual check-ups and tune-ups of your heating and cooling system to help prevent future problems and keep your system in fine working order. If your contractor offers a Service Partner Plan or other kind of maintenance contract, sign up for it! It will keep you on a schedule of regular and proper maintenance, save you money over time and give you peace of mind.

Also be sure to keep your system clean and free from dust, dirt and debris. Accumulated dust and other impediments can block the flow of air and that can drastically reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Be sure to check your air conditioner or furnace filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it or clean it. Never go longer than 3 months without replacing or cleaning a filter.

Look for the ENERGY STAR Label
When deciding on a heating or air conditioning system, insist on it being an Energy Star qualified system. The Energy Star designation is your best assurance that you are are buying an energy-efficient system. Be sure to ask your HVAC contractor to estimate your utility costs of purchasing an Energy Star qualified system. Although Energy Star heating and air condition equipment may cost more initially, they will cost much less to operate over time. In fact, most Energy Star qualified heating and air conditioning products can yield annual returns of 15–30 percent in lower energy bills. That translates into hundreds of dollars in annual savings.

More About Heating & Air Conditioning Installation...

• Choosing the Right Heating and Air Conditioning Contractor
• Making the Right Decision about Heating and Air Conditioning
• Heating and Air Conditioning System Analysis
• The Heating and Air Conditioning Installation Process
• 5 BIG Mistakes Homeowners Make When Replacing Their Heating and A/C Systems

This Year, Buy Heaters, Air Conditioners and Other Products That Make a Difference!

In the market for a new heater, air conditioner or any kind of electric appliance for your home? If so, why not get paid for your energy-efficient purchase? Throughout 2010 the federal government’s Energy Star program is offering all kinds of rebates and incentives to purchasers of new, Energy Star-rated appliances.

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (President Obama's economic stimulus program), states and U.S. territories have been authorized to use funds from the $300 million stimulus payout to provide compensation to consumers who choose to replace old appliances with new, more energy efficient models that carry the Energy Star rating.

More than 70 percent of the energy we use in our homes comes from the operation of heating and cooling systems, appliances and electronic devices. Energy Star appliances can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills while diminishing your impact on the environment.

While the rebate program will vary from state to state, participants have been instructed to choose from the following list of qualified appliances in deciding which products to include:

• Boilers
• Washing machines and dryers
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Dishwashers
• Air conditioners
• Furnaces
• Heat pumps
• Water heaters

Not every state in the union has chosen to participate in this program. Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland are among the states that are participating. In addition, your state energy office many have chosen all or just a few of these appliances to qualify in your local program.

Consumers can expect rebates of around $50 to $250 depending on the type of appliance purchased, the purchase price and other factors. Most states plan to offer refunds at the point of purchase in the form of cash returns, product discounts or credits, while some states may require a form submission before a check can be mailed to the purchaser. More specific information about how each state will handle the Energy Star rebates should be available very soon.

Energy Star rebate programs will be fully functional in most locations by early 2010—if not sooner—and will last as long as states can support them with the Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds. The stimulus legislation says that all monies must be spent by February 2012, but it is probable that funds will run out well before then.

Only new appliances purchased during the program’s duration qualify for rebates. Energy Star-rated appliances cannot be included retroactively so if you’re in the market for a new refrigerator or washing machine, best to wait until your state’s rebate program begins.

The federal government is also offering other incentives to citizens who make a commitment to reducing their energy consumption at home. These incentives come in the form of tax breaks for things like energy efficient new home construction, home improvement projects, new windows and doors, water heaters, and heating and cooling systems. Consumers are permitted to benefit from all of the incentives they qualify for, even if the benefits are related to the same product purchase or service. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency can provide more details about particular programs in your area.

For more information about the Energy Star rebate offers available in your state, check with your state’s department of energy or visit Energy Star's list of Approved Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Programs.


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Low water pressure is certainly an annoyance for many homeowners. Not only can it increase the time it takes to do things like shower, wash dishes, and water outdoor plants, but it also significantly increases how much water is used doing these simple tasks. There are many things that can cause low water pressure, but there are several things you can do to resolve the problem on your own.

Most homes have two main water supply valves—the customer valve, located in your water meter box, and the home valve, located on the exterior hose faucet at the front of your house. If either of these valves is even slightly turned away from the “on” position it can drastically decrease water pressure.

Leaking pipes will also decrease water pressure noticeably. It can be difficult to determine if you have a leak, but the best way to check is to look at your water meter. To read your meter, shut off all faucets both inside and outside your home. Read the meter and leave the water off for at least two hours. Go back and read the meter again. If your usage has gone up, there’s a good chance you’ve got a leaking pipe somewhere. Call a licensed plumber right away to prevent extensive damage.

Low water pressure could be the result of something as simple as the time of day you’re using your water. Most of us operate on the same daily schedule—lots of activity early in the morning as we get ready for work and school, less usage throughout the day as we are out of the house, then things pick up again in the evening when everyone returns home. If you notice changes in your water pressure only at certain times of day or specific days of the week, it could mean that you and your neighbors are on a similar schedule. Try varying your water usage by showering at night, running the dishwasher right before bed, or putting in a load of laundry as you leave for work in the morning.

Pressure regulators are small, bell-shaped devices that are usually located just below the front hose connection on your house. Most builders preset these regulators between 45 and 60 psi, and this is usually more than sufficient to maintain water pressure throughout the home. However, sometimes a pressure regulator just wears out or goes bad and needs to be replaced. If you suspect your water pressure troubles lie with the regulator, it’s best to consult a plumber. It’s an easy, inexpensive fix and you’ll save yourself the trouble of causing more damage by trying to repair or replace it yourself.

Older homes or those with galvanized iron pipes are prone to mineral deposits that build up over time. These are unavoidable, but can cause structural damage and make pipes more prone to cracking and leaking. If you know your house is old or has iron pipes, it’s best to consult a professional plumber who can assess the extent of the problem and estimate the cost of repairs.

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• Horizon Plumbing Services

“Green living” is a growing trend across the nation. Homeowners are looking to take proactive steps to reduce their impact on the environment and to combat the rising cost of household utilities at the same time. Initiatives like energy efficient lighting, solar power, and water conservation are a big part of new home construction and are increasingly attractive upgrades for existing homeowners.

Do-it-yourself plumbing generally falls into three basic categories: drips, clogs and leaks. Even if the only tools you own are a flimsy plunger and a rusty wrench there are a few easy bathroom repairs you can handle on your own.

A dripping faucet is one of the easiest plumbing problems to recognize because it can drive you crazy. The simplest fix for a drip is to first make sure the faucet has been turned off completely. It sounds obvious, but over time the washer that seals off the water that flows through the pipes and out of the faucet can wear and will become less effective. Start small by replacing the washer, a small, round piece of rubber located just inside the faucet. You can find replacement washers at any hardware or home improvement store in the plumbing section. If a new washer doesn’t stop the drip the problem may be a broken seat, the piece of brass that rests directly behind the washer. In this case, you’d be wise to have a professional plumber to take a look. The worst thing you can do for a dripping faucet is try to pull the fixture handle tighter. You could end up causing more damage or breaking the fixture itself.

Simple clogs make standing water in sinks, tubs or showers drain more slowly or prevent drainage altogether. First, try running hot water from the tap for five to ten minutes. This can clear small bits of debris that have collected in the pipes. If the drain is still clogged, fill the sink or tub with a couple inches of hot water and use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Be sure the plunger is covering the drain completely and push straight down and pull straight up several times.

If a plunger doesn’t work, try a liquid or powder drain cleaner. You can purchase these at any supermarket, hardware, discount, or home improvement retailer; there are even “green” options that contain natural substances and fewer harsh chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and flush pipes with scalding water following treatment. For really stubborn clogs, you may need to take apart a section of the pipe assembly to get at the blockage. If you don’t have the right equipment to do this, if the problem area is not easily accessible, or if water is backing up or won’t drain at all, call a pro.

Leaks are the most potentially dangerous kind of plumbing problem because they can indicate much more serious trouble. Signs that you have a water leak include staining on walls or ceilings, pooling water under sinks or around fixtures, and suddenly poor water pressure. For visible leaks, try tightening plumbing fittings or replacing washers. If you notice water damage on your walls or ceilings, you should probably consult a plumber. Whatever you do, address leaks as soon as you notice them; leaving a leak too long can cause severe water damage, staining, mold and mildew build-up that may require extensive repairs or renovation.


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The energy industry is changing steadily. Consumers concerned about the environment and their own bottom line are looking for newer, more efficient, more economical energy sources. Nowhere is this more apparent than with electricity.

Today, almost 50 percent of electric customers have the ability to buy renewable energy straight from their power distributor, and every consumer has the option to purchase green energy certificates.

Most states offer at least one of several different programs that let consumers buy green energy.

Green pricing programs require customers to pay a small fee in exchange for electricity produced by green energy sources. This optional service is offered through many traditional power companies; the premium fee helps offset costs for the supplier that come from increased expenses related to renewable energy generation.

Competitive electricity markets give customers a lot of choice when it comes to energy efficiency and low environmental impact. Through competitive markets, customers can select to have their power delivered by an independent green energy supplier rather than buy it from the traditional provider active in their area.

The competitive market model works a lot like the restructured long distance telephone call system of years ago. Instead of allowing a single default supplier to provide power to all consumers in a specific geographic area, some states have allowed alternative energy producers in to market green energy products and services to customers. This has increased competition among service providers in these markets, giving consumers renewable energy options and in some cases even lowering prices for traditional electric customers.

Green certificates can be purchased by anyone, regardless of their access to green pricing or competitive markets. Sometimes called green tags, renewable energy certificates, or tradable renewable certificates, green certificates are essentially the environmental benefits that come from producing clean energy. In buying green certificates, consumers are able to help alternative providers produce clean, renewable energy no matter where they are. These contributions make it possible for companies producing green power to generate more of it, thereby feeding more renewable energy into the country’s electricity supply.

The process starts with clean power companies that separate the power they sell to suppliers from the environmental attributes associated with that energy. These attributes are the green certificates. The certificates are then sold to both businesses and individual consumers who want to help increase the amount of green energy entering the power grid.

The separation makes it possible for alternative energy suppliers to sell their products to traditional suppliers at competitive prices. Selling the green certificates helps cover the additional costs associated with producing renewable energy, as well as stimulating the research and development of more green energy initiatives.

There are many organizations that offer renewable energy certificates. No matter where you live, you have the opportunity to contribute to these alternative providers and, in turn, increase the amount of green energy that circulates through our nation’s electric systems.

For more information about buying green electricity or participating in renewable energy initiatives in your area, contact your local electric company or your state’s Department of Environmental Protection.



Links to Local Electric Utilities in DE, PA and MD:

• Peco Energy
• Delmarva Power

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