Monday, August 30, 2010
Make Sure You Have Proper Air Circulation Throughout Your Home
Going in Circles is Great for Heating & Cooling Comfort and Energy Efficiency!Uneven air circulation and distribution of both heated and cooled air is a common problem in many households. Industry experts say that improper air flow can actually reduce the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning equipment by as much as 60%! They also say that improper air flow is one of the most common causes of heating and air conditioning system breakdowns. That's because when air is not flowing smoothly through your home, it puts extra demand on your heating and cooling equipment to force warm or cool air throughout the home.
Proper air circulation is extremely important if you want to get the most out of your heating and air conditioning system. Think of each room in your home as a section of a wheel. When you don’t get air good circulation in one room, it’s like having a flat spot on a wheel; the wheel is not going to roll smoothly. With central air conditioning and heating, one room with bad circulation can keep air from circulating smoothly throughout the rest of your house.
If your heating and air conditioning system lacks even air circulation between rooms and floors of the home, temperature and humidity can differ greatly from room to room. If one or more parts of your home are too warm or too cool, the overall comfort level of your home will feel out of balance. It may also force you to run your heater or air conditioner more in certain rooms; this can put unnecessary demand on your heating and air conditioning system, which can lead to premature breakdowns and higher energy bills.
The key to consistent year-round comfort is consistent air circulation. So how do you get proper air circulation throughout your home? It starts with installing a heating and air conditioning system that designed for your home's heating and air conditioning requirements. Is your heating and air conditioning equipment sized properly so that it doesn't produce too much or too little heated or cooled air? Does it have the proper efficiency rating? A system analysis of your home including a load calculation (a mathematical estimate of the amount of air that needs to be generated to efficiently heat and cool each room) can provide great insight as to whether your system is putting out too much or too little air.
Good ductwork design is another key component to getting good air circulation and consistent heating and cooling comfort. Because the ducts in your home carry the air to each rooms, it is important that they are the correct size and length to deliver the proper amount of heating and cooling. It's also important where in your home they are located and whether or not they have any leaks or damage.
If you're thinking of installing a new heating and air conditioning system, make sure your HVAC contractor not only explains how your equipment is sized and that it is of the right efficiency for your home, but that he submits and reviews with you a copy of the ductwork design. This will help assure you that you’ll be getting the proper air circulation and won't be disappointed with the way your new heating and air conditioning system performs.
At Horizon Services, our comfort consultants and HVAC technicians are always happy to discuss with you how to get the right air circulation and most consistent heating and cooling throughout your home. Give us a call!
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
BTUs and Your Air Conditioner
A British Thermal Unit -- or BTU -- is the measure of an air conditioner’s power output and cooling capability. Normal BTU range for most air conditioners goes from around 5000 for a small window unit to 30,000 or more for a central AC system. BTU output is directly related to the size and cost of a unit—lower BTU means less power and lower cost, higher BTU means more power and higher cost. When you’re shopping for a new air conditioner, pay special attention to BTU because this is the best indicator of whether the unit is powerful enough to meet your needs.What is a BTU?
If you’re talking about air conditioners, BTU describes the power capacity of a specific unit. Generally, BTU output corresponds to the size of the space an AC can cool—a unit with more BTU can cool a larger room. About 20 BTUs are needed for each square foot of space in a room or home. Other things to consider are the height of ceilings, size and number of windows, and amount of insulation.
Still, BTU is a fairly accurate indicator of cooling capability, though it usually makes sense to adjust down. For example, if your living room is 10 feet by 15 feet and has a total area of 150 square feet, you’d multiply that by 20 BTUs to get 3000. Therefore, you’d need an air conditioner with at least 3000 BTUs to effectively cool your living room. However, when you take into account the other factors that impact the space—like cathedral ceilings, large windows, or an unusually warm climate—you may find that 3000 BTUs are not enough to keep you cool. In that case, it’s obviously best to choose a unit with higher BTU.
BTU Range
There’s a wide range of BTU outputs available in both commercial and residential air conditioners. Most residential units average 5000 to 30,000 BTUs. 12,000 BTUs equals one ton of air; some units are marked with a measurement in tons rather than BTU. A “2-ton” AC, for instance, means that the unit has an output of 24,000 BTUs.
Portable air conditioners average about 5000 to 12,000 BTUs. Wall and window units can reach upwards of 24,000 BTUs at the high end. Mini split systems range from 9000 to 24,000 BTUs, while multi-split systems and central air conditioners can put out 30,000 BTUs or more. Industrial air conditioning systems frequently have BTU output significantly higher than 30,000.
Not only will BTU tell you how much room an air conditioner can cool, but it can also give you an idea of how much you’ll have to pay to run it. The more BTUs a unit uses, the more it will cost to operate. To save money on utilities, look for air conditioners with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (or SEER). Additional features like programmable thermostats, timers, fans, and power-saving settings can reduce strain on your system, boost efficiency, and lower your energy costs while still keeping your home cool.
Related Air Conditioning Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, August 23, 2010
PEX Plumbing Grows in Popularity
Today’s New Plastic Piping Can Be a Smart Alternative to Traditional Plumbing Solutions!PEX piping is fast becoming one of the most widely used and affordable plumbing solutions on the market. PEX is an acronym for “cross-linked polyethylene”. It is a bendable, plastic plumbing pipe that was first developed in the 1960s but has become extremely popular in recent years for residential plumbing purposes.
PEX plumbing has many advantages over traditional plumbing and piping materials – including copper and other plastics. It is easy to install, more affordable than copper and other metals, and has a reputation for great performance. PEX pipe is made through a special chemical process that gives it great strength. PEX piping is able to withstand a wide temperature range – from sub-freezing temperatures up to 180 degrees F. PEX piping is also quieter than most traditional pipe systems. PEX connections are much simpler to make and don’t require soldering or gluing like fixed metal pipes. Plus, PEX pipes can bend around corners, reducing the need for joints – which is where most leaks and pipe failures occur.
PEX is a Great Value:
One of the biggest benefits of using PEX pipe in your home is the cost. From materials to installation, PEX is by far the most cost effective plumbing you can buy. The pipe itself is cheaper than other materials, and you’ll also save big on installation and labor costs because PEX comes in longer, flexible sections with fewer fixings. The light weight and easy fitting of PEX makes the entire installation process much shorter than traditional plumbing, so you can outfit your whole home with PEX in dramatically less time than it would take to re-plumb conventionally.
PEX Delivers Performance:
PEX pipe has so far proven more durable than traditional plumbing, too. There’s no need to worry about potable water delivery because the plastic is resistant to most of the chemicals commonly found in water systems. The smooth interior of the pipes means less corrosive build-up and mineral deposits to clog the plumbing over time. The flexible material resists freezing and bursting much better than traditional metal pipes.
PEX Provides Maintenance Savings:
The convenience of PEX installation carries over into maintenance, too. PEX is much easier to repair or replace if something goes wrong, speeding repairs and saving you money on what is often the most expensive part of plumbing repairs—hourly labor costs.
PEX Has Some Drawbacks:
The one drawback of PEX pipe is that it’s not appropriate for outdoor use. Though it does resist damage from freezing when installed indoors, it won’t stand up to harsher outdoor temperatures. UV light can also break down the plastic, which can lead to big problems.
PEX Myths Debunked:
Plastic plumbing was popular in home construction in the 1980s, and it had lots of problems. Some holdouts continue to insist that PEX plumbing hasn’t changed much in the past 30 years. This simply isn’t the case. Today’s PEX is made of completely different material and has been proven reliable and low-maintenance for many years. Plumbers all across the country use the new, innovative PEX time and again; its reputation these days is much different than that of plastic pipes in the past.
If you’d like to learn more about PEX plumbing, talk to a Horizon Services plumbing technician. You’ll be able to compare costs, get information about what installation will entail, and determine if PEX is right for your home. Chances are, no matter where you live or how your home’s plumbing is currently set up, installing PEX piping can help your plumbing system work more efficiently and can save you money on expensive plumbing service and maintenance costs.
More Plumbing Information from Horizon Services...
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Room by Room Tips for Increasing Energy Efficiency at Home
Slash Your Energy Bills One Room at a Time!A home that’s energy efficient is easier on the environment and your budget. While energy efficient "green" home design is all the rage for new construction, it’s definitely not too late for existing structures to get an eco-friendly overhaul. And it’s not as hard as you may think to make the kinds of changes that can significantly reduce your family’s energy consumption, lower your utility bills and minimize your impact on the environment.
To get the most out of your next energy efficient home remodeling project, it’s important to focus on three key goals: reduce your total energy consumption, use energy to its fullest potential, and cut down on the waste your energy produces. Progress in any of these areas is fantastic, but talk to your contractor about ways to combine all three for the most energy efficient impact.
In the meantime, these simple energy efficiency tips can help you make a difference immediately if a big construction project isn’t in your near future.
Energy Efficient Kitchens:
As one of the most heavily used areas in your home, the kitchen is often the place where you consume the most energy. If the ice in your freezer is more than a 1/2 centimeter thick, defrost it. Vacuum your refrigerator condenser coil frequently; this can dramatically improve your appliance’s performance and energy efficiency. Be sure all the seals on your fridge, freezer, and oven doors are tight. Only run the dishwasher when you have a full load.
Energy Efficient Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms:
Any room in your home that uses hot water is a good place to start to improve energy efficiency. Leaky taps can waste much more water than you think over time, so tighten loose connections and fix leaks as soon as possible. Take it easy on your dryer; load it only as full as its maximum capacity will allow and try to run it only when you need to. Be sure to clean the lint trap after every use, too.
Energy Efficient Basements:
Make sure your hot water pipes are well insulated to ensure the fuel that heats your water isn’t wasted. Set your hot water heater no higher than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider upgrading your basement insulation, too, which can help keep more heat inside your home during cold months and improve energy efficiency.
Energy Efficient Bedrooms and Living Rooms:
The best way to improve energy efficiency in these areas is to replace your windows and add insulation. But if these upgrades just aren’t in your budget, you may want to do some research on zoned heating and cooling to see if it’s a good fit for your home. Zoned systems let you set temperatures to match use, turning on the furnace or air conditioner in common living spaces when everyone is home and off in bedrooms when your house is empty during the day. Solar screens, thermal curtains, and tinting film are just a few of the window treatment options that can help reduce stress on your home’s heating and cooling system.
More Energy Efficiency Information from Horizon Services...
- The System Analysis
- 101 Ways to Save Energy and Money in Your Home
- Green Your Home...Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
- Cutting Edge Solutions For Energy Efficiency
- Frugal Fridge Maintenance Can Save You Energy...and Cold Hard Cash!
- 14 Web Sites That Can Save You Energy, Money and Time
- Seasonal Energy Saving Tips
Monday, August 16, 2010
Finding a Wall Mounted Sink That Fits Your Needs
A wall mounted sink is the perfect choice for small bathroom spaces and powder rooms. These units hang right on the wall, eliminating the need for a bulky vanity or countertop. Wall mounted sinks come in a variety of sizes, styles, and textures available, with models suitable for nearly any décor or bathroom. When shopping for a wall mounted sink, consider the following questions carefully and you’ll be sure to find a fixture that matches your needs.- Where will the sink go? The first thing you will want to consider is where you intend to install the sink. There are significant differences between wall mounted sinks intended for bathrooms or powder rooms and those meant for basements or laundry rooms. If your wall mounted sink will be part of your bathroom décor, you’ll want to consider things like style, texture and material more carefully than if you just need a utility sink for an area of your home that is not generally open to visitors.
- What sink shapes and features appeal to you? This is mostly something to consider if you are thinking of putting a wall mounted sink in a bathroom. Simple white ceramic is a classic choice, but there is a rainbow of other colors to choose from and a variety of styles...everything from antique to contemporary, traditional to modern. Special features like deep basins and counter space are also important to take into account. Measure your bathroom carefully and pay attention to other fixtures so you’ll ensure a good, cohesive design scheme.
- Do you need or want a vanity? To further maximize space and storage, you may wish to purchase a wall mounted sink with a vanity. A vanity sink not only provides additional counter space in your bathroom, but also often has storage space underneath where you can store toiletries and cleaning supplies. Usually, these attached cabinets are made of wood. If you want something a bit more unusual, consider a stone or granite floating countertop with an under-mount sink basin. The most important considerations here are the size and layout of your bathroom—if you have no other place to store bath items, you may need a vanity. But if the layout of your bathroom is such that installing a vanity or countertop would prohibit use of other features, like toilets or showers, it may be best to bypass a bulky cabinet and stick with a simple wall mounted sink.
Wall mounted sinks can integrate with your existing bathroom décor seamlessly, as long as you take the time to really think about what is best for your room. For saving space and reducing remodeling costs, fewer plumbing fixtures are more attractive or economical than a classic wall mounted sink. Take your time, shop carefully, and you’re sure to find a model that will complete your bathroom renovation project.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Keep Cooling Costs Down This Summer
Energy Conservation Tips for Your Air ConditionerWith summer in full swing, you are probably tempted to run your air conditioner as frequently as you can. But while your air conditioner can take the edge off of the sweltering heat, it can also take a significant bite out of your wallet. If you find that you can't do without air conditioning, here are some very important things that Horizon's air conditioning technicians suggest that you can do to maximize your comfort while minimizing your energy use and cooling costs .
Raise Your Thermostat Setting
Be sure to increase the thermostat if you’re going to be out of the house during the day. Every degree you raise the thermostat can results in a 5%-8% savings on the cost of cooling your home. And when you are at home, try setting the thermostat a degree or two higher than you normally would. Chances are you won't even notice the diffence in your comfort...but you will in your energy savings!
Often, when people first come into their house from being outside in the hot weather, they turn on their air conditioners at a colder than normal setting, thinking this will cool the house off faster. But guess what...it doesn't work. Your house will not cool any faster...but your air conditioner will work much harder. This will result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense. Doing this overtime can also lead to frequent air conditioner breakdowns or reduce your air conditioner's life span.
A great idea is to install a programmable thermostat which will automatically raise or lower temperatures at preset times to allow for times when you won’t be at home. These items are inexpensive and they can save you about $100 every year in energy costs.
Join the Fan Club
Combining a ceiling fan with a central air conditioning system is a great way to maximize yor cooling comfort. While it won't actually reduce the room temperature, a ceiling fan creates enough air movement in a room to make it feel about four degrees cooler -- just like the wind chill factor makes the outdoor winter air feel colder to your skin. This allows you to to set the thermostat a little lower than you normally would and feel just as cool. Also, the average ceiling fan only uses about as much electricity as a 100-watt light bulb; so it only costs pennies per day to run.
If you're going to use a ceiling fan, make sure that it is set for summertime operation: the high edge of the blade should go forward first, to force the air downward. You should feel the air blowing down on you when you stand beneath the fan when it’s on. And only run the fan when you’re in the room! It doesn’t actually make the room cooler; it just feels cooler when you’re in the breeze.
Apply Some Sun Block
Direct sunlight can really do a number on your ouside air conditioner by making it work significantly harder. In fact, an air conditioning unit operating in the sun uses as much as 10% more electricity than the same one operating in the shade. Do your air conditioner a favor: planting trees or shrubs nearby to shade the unit. You can also purchase and install canopies that you can place over your air conditioner unit to shield it from the sun's rays.
In addition, it is important to keep unnecessary sunlight and heat from getting inside your house. Direct sunlight streaming through windows and baking through walls during the summer months can significantly increase your air conditioning costs. Be sure to look for ways to shade sun-exposed windows and exterior walls of your house. Be sure to draw shades and curtains during the brightest hours of the day. Consider using exterior window coverings or awnings. Plant trees or bushes in front of walls or windows. You can even apply reflective film on windows that prevents much of the sun's rays from entering your home's interior.
Other Ways to Keep Cool Around the House
This may sound obvious, but be sure that all windows and outside doors are shut when the air conditioner is on. After all, you don’t want to “cool the whole neighborhood.”
Avoid placing lamps, TVs, appliances or other heat sources near the air conditioner thermostat. Heat from these items may cause the air conditioner unit to run longer than it should.
Make sure that no furniture or large objects are obstructing ducts or fans. You want to allow the cool air to circulate freely.
Cut back on indoor activities that generate heat such as laundry, cooking and dishwashing. If you must do these chores, wait until later in the evening when it is cooler.
If you have any unused rooms, turn off the cooling in these areas and keep the doors closed.
Related Air Conditioning and Energy Saving Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, August 9, 2010
Energy Star Homes Get New Set of Guidelines
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has managed the Energy Star labeling program for nearly twenty years, and has helped Americans cut greenhouse gas emissions and save billions on utility costs. In 2009 alone, Energy Star partners helped consumers avoid greenhouse gases in an amount equal to that of the output of 30 million cars and save more than $17 billion on utilities.The EPA recently announced a new set of more stringent guidelines for Energy Star-certified home construction. These new conditions will raise the bar of energy efficiency for qualified homes, making them at least 20 percent more efficient than homes built to the previous standards. Homeowners will likely see at least a 15 percent drop in their utility bills, as well.
The EPA’s updated guidelines will further solidify the Energy Star brand as it’s applied to new home construction. Energy Star homes will continue to represent significant increases in energy efficiency over homes that are built to standard builder practices and codes. The new regulations will go into effect as of January 2011, though many builders and contractors are likely to start implementing the changes much earlier than that.
If you’re interested in learning more about Energy Star new home construction and how the new guidelines may affect your project, the key components of the revised plan are as follows:
- Homes must have a complete thermal enclosure system. This includes complete air sealing around windows and doors, adequate insulation around all assemblies, and high performance windows. This not only makes the home more comfortable, but also helps lower utility costs.
- Comprehensive central heating and cooling systems must meet Energy Star standards and be installed by qualified professionals. Energy efficient heating and cooling systems are designed to increase comfort, offer better moisture control, and operate quietly. They are also outfitted with fresh air ventilation to improve the quality of air inside the home.
- Because Energy Star homes are so tightly sealed and insulated, they must be equipped with a total water management system. Flashing, moisture barriers, and durable membrane details are all crucial elements in keeping water away from roofs, walls, and foundations. This reduces mold growth, which improves indoor air quality, and extends the durability of these structures.
- With energy efficient lighting and appliances certified by Energy Star, homeowners can enjoy even more energy savings without sacrificing performance quality.
- Energy Star and the EPA will now require all new construction to be third party verified by an independent home energy rater. These inspectors will conduct thorough, detailed examinations using specially designed diagnostic tools to measure performance of key systems.
The new EPA guidelines should come as no surprise to those who make their living building green homes. The revised regulations certainly don’t break much new ground, but they are solid, relatively simple changes that should translate into substantial utility savings while further reducing homeowner’s energy dependence.
If you are a homeowner considering an Energy Star certified new home construction, you can find out more about the program by visiting http://www.energystar.gov/ or by speaking with an experienced HVAC or home contractor in your area.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Friday, August 6, 2010
When it Comes to Central Air Conditioning, Size Matters!
Two of the most common mistakes people make when purchasing central air conditioning are 1). Getting a system that is too large for the size and style of their house, or 2). Getting a system that is too small. This usually happens when an air conditioning contractor recommends an oversized unit, telling you that “bigger is better.” Or when a contractor tries to sell you a smaller unit so that they can underbid other contractors and make sure they get the job by offering you a bargain.Here's the truth: When it comes to central air conditioning systems, bigger isn't better; it’s just more expensive. And smaller may save you some money upfront, but you almost always get what you pay for.
Consider some of the problems you can get into from buying an oversized or undersized air conditioner...
Air Conditioner Too Big:
An oversized central air condtioning system will turn on and off much too frequently, which will wear down your equipment and waste electricity. Plus, the larger system will cost you more upfront and more to operate.
This frequent cycling on and off will also make your indoor temperatures fluctuate up and down more, resulting in a less comfortable environment. The oversize unit will lower temperature too quickly and then turn off before removing the appropriate amount of humidity. This is another reason why homes with oversize units feel cold and damp -- the humidity is never removed!
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) estimates that nearly half of all existing air conditioning equipment is over-sized They estimate that this costs homeowners 20% each year in wasted energy!
Air Conditioner Too Small:
An undersized central air conditioning system will cause your air conditioner to overwork and may fail to keep your home adequately cool. A small air conditioning unit will lower humidity, but will not lower the temperature enough, so the air will feel dry but warm. Pluse the air conditoning system will run constantly; over-running your central air conditioning equipment will lead to premature breakdowns and a short lifespan.
And even if you get the right size air conditioning equipment, you also have to beware of “buying too small” when it comes to your air duct or airflow system. According to the National Comfort Institute states, it’s not unusual to see return air systems undersized by 30-50%. In fact, many common central air conditioning equipment problems including compressor burnout, frozen indoor air conditioning coils -- are often a result of improperly placed and installed air distribution systems.
Be Like Goldilocks!
The central air conditioning system that is ideal for your home comfort and budget is neither “too big” nor “too small,” but is “just right”. When shopping for a new central air conditioning system, be sure that your air conditioning contractor performs a thorough analysis and measurement of your home from top to bottom -- including your air ducts and air flow system.
Also, as part of this analysis, make sure that your central air conditioning contractor performs a load calculation. This is a mathematical computation that allows a contrcator to precisely estimate the performance needed to adequately cool your home and the capacity that will be required for your new air conditioning equipment to deliver that performance. A load calculation is good way for you to make sure that the central air conditioning equipment you’re buying is not over-sized or under-sized. Be sure to ask for a copy of the load calculation to be submitted with the proposal; this will assure you that the contractor takes capacity design seriously and that he’s not just going through the motions.
Related Air Conditioning Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Clog Prevention 101
Tips on Avoiding Common Household Drain ProblemsClogs in toilets, sinks, tubs and other fixtures and appliances may seem to come out of the blue, but they just don't happen without a reason. Nine times out of ten, they were caused by you and your family not paying attention to what or how much you are putting down your drains. But by staying alert and following these incredibly easy tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a clogged drain in your home.
Avoiding Clogged Toilets:
To help prevent clogged toilets, keep in mind that the toilet is not a trash can. Food is never to be flushed down a toilet -- especially greasy or fibrous foods. Cigarette butts are another major no-no; they can easily get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your drain system.
Think paper products are OK? With the exception of toilet paper, the anwer is NO. Soap wrappers or women’s sanitary products should never be put into the toilet because they will expand and create blockage. Even paper towels and facial tissue should be avoided because they do not dissolve as easily as toilet paper. Keep a wastebasket in the bathroom for items like this.
If you have small children, keep toys out of the bathroom and the lid down. A child may decide that the toilet makes a good “swimming pool” for their toys, and the next thing you know you have a clogged toilet.
Eliminating Clogs in Showers and Sinks:
The most common clogging culprits in bathroom showers and sinks are soap scraps and human hair.
Hair is a real problem. It doesn’t deteriorate, and, in fact, it coils up like a spring and builds up to lodge in the drainpipe. Check the strainers at the sink or tub drain outlets to make sure they are in proper condition and not worn Good strainers will help keep hair from going into the drain and then lodging in clumps and blocking the drains. However, remember to remove the hair the strainer catches after each use, otherwise hair will work its way into the drain.
The problem with soap is when you get down to that last sliver, and it ends up down the drain and contributing to the clog. You can prevent this by remembering to throw the soap in the wastebasket before it becomes a tiny sliver.
Keeping Clogs Out of the Kitchen:
Of course, kitchen sinks are usually equipped with a strainer to keep food particles or other things from getting into the drain. If your sink doesn’t have a strainer, by all means buy one; it could be one of the best investments you ever made!
However, grease, which will pass through the strainer, is a common cause for kitchen sink clogs. When cooking fatty foods, try to capture the grease and poor it into a cup or bowl rather than letting it go into the drain when you clean up. When the grease hardens in the cup you can scrape it into the garbage. Also, after cleaning up greasy pots and plates, fill the sink with warm water and let it drain. This will help reduce grease build up.
And special care should be exercised in using a garbage disposal, if you have one. First, check the manual and make sure you know which food materials the disposal is designed to handle without becoming clogged. Second, when you put food scraps in the disposal, put them in loosely; tightly packed scraps can clog the machine. Third, make sure you’re running cold water (not hot) when you’re operating the disposal, and let the water keep running for a minute or two after you turn the disposal off to flush food residue out of the drainpipe. Also, when you’re not using the disposal, it’s a good idea to keep the cover on it so that stray kitchen items don’t fall in and either clog or damage the machine.
Minimizing Lint Clogs in the Laundry:
To prevent clogs in laundry machines, clean out the lint trap in the washing machine after each use. Additionally, you can install a nylon mesh lint trap over the washing machine’s discharge hose, to catch excess lint and keep it from entering the drain.
Also, after you’ve done your laundry, it’s a good idea to turn off the shutoff valves on the hot and cold water lines that bring water into your machine. This is an especially good idea if you’re going to be away from home for a while. Here’s why: when you leave the water on, these water hoses will be under constant pressure, and if the water hoses happen to burst when you’re away from home, you’ll come home to a flooded laundry area.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, August 2, 2010
Take Control of Home Heating and Cooling With an Internet Thermostat
Monitor and Set Temperatures Anytime, Anywhere!You've probably seen or heard of people using the Internet to monitor their home's security or to keep tabs on nannies and babysitters. These days, many homeowners are using the power of the Internet to remotely monitor something else in their homes -- their thermostat.
An internet thermostat in your home can be programmed and controlled remotely through a computer network system. Like other programmable thermostat controls, these units have a keypad unit which allows you to set a schedule for temperature adjustments, but internet thermostats let you make changes to the schedule from anyplace outside the home with an internet signal. No matter how far from home you are, and no matter how long you plan to be away, you can have complete access to your heating and cooling system.
How an Internet Thermostat Works:
The internet thermostat is connected to your home or office computer network. Home networks are generally wired using Ethernet cables or wireless connections, or some combination of the two.
An internet thermostat is linked to your home’s network through an Ethernet cord, and therefore connects to the internet in the same way that your computer or web-ready video game device does. Once the unit has been set up, you simply log on to a special website where you’ll have full access to your temperature settings.
To ensure the security and stability of your system, most internet thermostats must be hard wired —- meaning they have to hook up to the internet using a physical connection like a cord or cable. Though wireless internet thermostats do exist, these are generally more vulnerable to outside interference. For added security, you’ll be asked to set up a username and password to access your internet thermostat. This prevents unauthorized use of the thermostat.
The Benefits of an Internet Thermostat:
The most obvious benefit of a remotely programmable internet thermostat is that you have complete control over the temperature in your home no matter where you are. It's perfect for those who work out of the home -- you can adjust the temperature before you leave the house for the day and turn it back to a comfortable level just before you return home. This makes your home more comfortable and helps save energy and money on utility costs.
You can also monitor the temperature in your home or office at any time. This is an invaluable resource if you travel frequently, have a vacation home you use only during certain times of year, or are away from home for long periods. Having the ability to monitor your HVAC system lets you see if there are problems with the unit, and makes it possible to adjust the indoor temperature if the weather changes unexpectedly.
Another benefit of an internet thermostat is that you no longer have to worry about temperature settings. If you forget to adjust the thermostat before you leave for work or vacation, simply log on to your system from any internet device and change the settings.
What You Need to Set Up an Internet Thermostat:
If an internet thermostat seems like a good fit for your home, you’ll need a fully operational home computer network. Generally, home networking requires a gateway, a modem or wireless router, a computer, and access to the internet. Most of us have all of these items in our homes already, even if we don’t have a network configured. A certified HVAC contractor can help you determine which components you need to complete your network, and will assist you in connecting the internet thermostat to the other devices in your home.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
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