Standards are Getting Tougher for Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems and Other Appliances

According to a March 2010 press release, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have been implementing stricter policies to improve the federal Energy Star program and to increase consumer confidence in the label. The action comes at a crucial time, when more American consumers are both struggling financially and turning to home heating and cooling equipment and home appliances that will save energy and reduce utility bills.


Strengthening Testing and Enforcement

The EPA and DOE have begun a two-part process to expand Energy Star testing:

• The DOE recently started testing on six of the most common Energy Star product types: freezers, washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters, refrigerator-freezers, and room air conditioners. The DOE will conduct testing on more than 200 models at independent laboratories over the next several months.


• The EPA and DOE are currently working on a system that will make the Energy Star qualification process more rigorous. Changes include testing by approved third-party labs, ongoing verification testing, and new manufacturer compliance cooperation procedures.

On the enforcement front, the EPA and DOE have been working to identify and resolve issues with manufacturers who fail to meet Energy Star standards. This includes actions taken against nearly three dozen manufacturers since January 2010:

• January 7, 2010: The DOE announced that freezer manufacturer Haier had signed a consent decree on four of its models that were found to consume more energy than the company reported. As part of their agreement, Haier was ordered to notify all impacted consumers, repair defective units at no cost, and pay a fine of $150,000 to the US Treasury.


• January 25, 2010: The DOE disqualified 34 compact fluorescent lightbulb models from more than two dozen manufacturers. These bulbs did not meet all Energy Star criteria for CFL.


• January 28, 2010: The DOE took action against four companies that manufacture showerheads because the products were not certified to meet federal water conservation standards.


• February 4, 2010: The DOE initiated a civil penalty against an air conditioner and heat pump manufacturer because some of its products were not certified, while other products were certified without the proper testing.


• March 7, 2010: The DOE commenced enforcement actions against two more showerhead manufacturers suspected of marketing products that did not meet federal water conservation standards.


• March 11, 2010: The EPA terminated their partnership with US Inc./US Refrigeration based on the company’s history of Energy Star logo misuse, unresponsiveness to EPA communications, and a habitual failure to comply with Energy Star guidelines.
  
  

Energy Star Brand Aims to Bolster Consumer Trust

The Energy Star program already has several systems in place to ensure consumer confidence in products that carry the Energy Star label. The requirements for certification are as follows:

• To receive the Energy Star label, companies must submit to the federal government data that shows their product(s) meets clear and quantifiable energy efficiency standards.


• The DOE and EPA conduct regular third-party laboratory and “off the shelf” testing of a range of Energy Star products to ensure continued compliance.


• Because the Energy Star label is so attractive to buyers, market competition drives compliance from manufacturers. Manufacturers frequently test competitors’ products to ensure compliance and can report violations to the EPA or DOE.


• When a manufacturer is found to be in violation of Energy Star policies, the label is removed from the affected product, corrective measures are outlined, and if changes are not made the Energy Star partnership may be terminated.
  

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Let the Season Be Your Guide to Fixing and Maintaining Your Home Heating and Air Conditioning Systems!

At some point in your homeownership, you’re going to have to call an HVAC technician to service your home’s heating and cooling system. Whether you need furnace repair, someone to take a look at your air conditioner, or a professional opinion on the state of your ventilation and ductwork, a reliable HVAC technician is your best bet.

But how do you know when it’s time to call? This handy guide gives you some suggestions for seasonally appropriate repairs and maintenance, which should help you begin the conversation. Remember; always shop around for a reputable technician even if you need immediate assistance. There are few things that feel worse than being taken for a ride by a shady contractor in times of desperation.


Spring HVAC Repair and Maintenance:
Early spring is a great time to have your HVAC system cleaned and inspected. If there are any problems or necessary repairs, you can have them completed well before the warm summer weather sets in. That way you can rest assured that your air conditioner will kick in without issue when you need it most.


Summer HVAC Repair and Maintenance:
It goes without saying that summer is one of the busiest times of year for HVAC technicians. But if you’re having trouble with your system there are a few simple do-it-yourself tricks to try before you call a pro. Make sure your air conditioner is clean from dust, dirt, and debris. Change the filter monthly. Check your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly. If you still can’t figure out the problem, call a professional HVAC technician but expect a bit of a wait, as summer schedules can fill up quickly.


Fall HVAC Repair and Maintenance:
Toward the end of summer and into the fall, think about calling an HVAC technician to schedule a furnace tune-up and ductwork cleaning. Postponing this crucial step can put you at the end of a long line of other customers or worse—stuck in the cold without a working furnace on that first chilly autumn morning.


Winter HVAC Repair and Maintenance:
If you need service in the winter it’s likely that your furnace has stopped working. But before you call a professional, do a few quick checks on your own. Start with the furnace pilot light and make sure it hasn’t gone out. Then check the thermostat to see that it’s working properly. Be certain that all floor and ceiling registers are open.

Sometimes, simply replacing the filter furnace can improve your system’s function. You’ll certainly have to hire a pro if none of these produce results. If you do need to call a technician, don’t delay. Putting off furnace repairs can lead to even more serious (and costly) problems like frozen or burst pipes, carbon monoxide poisoning, and system-wide damage. You can generally expect a quick response to a call for help during the winter, as HVAC professionals understand the urgency of furnace problems at this time of year.



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When if Comes to Home Heating, The Right Relationship is Everything!

Heating season is now upon us, and that means the inevitable need for heating system maintenance or repairs. Most homeowners are capable of handling the most basic heating system maintenance tasks: changing disposable filters, washing electrostatic filters, lighting or relighting the pilot light. But when it comes to more complex heating repairs or furnace tune-ups, the sheer complexity of most heating systems makes them inaccessible to even the handiest do-it-yourselfer. So it pays to have a reputable heating repair professional that you know well and can trust on-call to handle both common repairs and emergencies.

The following is a list of reasons why developing a relationship with an experienced heating repair technician is good common sense.

Stay on Top of Heating Repairs:
Your home’s heating system is only as good as its equipment. It is important to give these systems plenty of attention to help keep them functioning properly. A heating professional can inspect your heating system to prevent future issues, make sure your furnace or heater is up to code, make repairs, replace old parts, and recommend updates. These kinds of regular check-ups are especially important if your HVAC system or furnace is older, as some parts or components may be out of date or not up to current standards.

Never Too Much:
The average American takes their car in for service 4-5 time per year. Since you probably spend more time in your home, don't you think it needs at least half as much professional maintenance? Don’t worry if you see your heating repair professional at least two or three times a year; that's average for most homeowners. Having your heating system inspected and cleaned frequently can translate into significant savings on your utility bills, your safety, and your schedule.

You’ll Save Money:
Replacing your entire heating system can be very costly. And the number one reason that heaters and furnaces break down is because of neglect or deterioration. To help you avoid the expense of buying a new heating system or incurring a major heating repair, have a heating professional come to your home to inspect and clean your existing unit several times a year. You’ll actually end up saving money in the long run.

You’ll Save Time:
You don’t have the time to learn everything there is to know about heater or furnace maintenance, but a qualified technician does. Having a number you can call when your heating system breaks down means you can spend more time enjoying your life. To save even more time, do a heating system test run during the mid to late fall. Because winter is the busiest time for any repair professional, it helps to have an idea of your problem before you call.

You’ll Save Your Health:
Hiring a heating contractor to come inspect your property a few times a year helps guard against potential safety hazards like leaks, allergens, fire, and carbon monoxide poison. This can ultimately improve not only the health of your heating system but the health of your household, too.

Familiarity Breeds Success:
Every heating system is different. Heaters and furnaces have their own peculiarities. Do you want to waste time and money with a heating repairman who has little or no experience with your type of heating system or who has to learn on the job and familiarize himself with the workings of your heating unit? It pays to have a heating repairman who already knows your heating system inside and out and is familiar with your particular heating unit's performance and repair history.

How to Find a Heating Repair Professional You Can Trust

This is not something to take lightly. Choose a heating repair professional as carefully as you would choose a new doctor or dentist. Ask around to friends, family, local companies, or the Better Business Bureau to compile a list of trusted, quality heating contractors. Heater and furnace emergencies are no joke, and you want to be sure the heating professional you have on call is the best person for the job.

If you live in Delaware, Pennsylvania or Maryland, you can't go wrong by choosing Horizon Services for your heating service needs. Our heating technicians provide a level of quality and professionalism that is unequaled in the industry. Friendly, accountable, experienced technicians with a personal touch. It's a relationship that you'll treasure for years.


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What You Can't See CAN Harm You!

Refrigerant gases used in HVAC systems have long been linked to environmental risks and depletion of the ozone layer. For nearly 20 years, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has pushed for legislation regarding the proper use, repair and disposal of refrigerant systems in order to minimize the harmful effects on the environment.

There are several different classes of refrigerant gases, each with specific uses in both commercial and residential situations. Generally speaking, refrigerants are used in temperature control systems in homes and businesses. The most common types of gases used in these HVAC systems are hydrofluorocarbons (HCFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Each of these gases has elements that can cause harm to the ozone layer and can have other adverse effects on the environment. This is why the EPA strictly measures, monitors and regulates their use.

HCFCs, PFCs and CFCs are classified as ozone depleting substances and have a very high potential for contributing to global warming. Also known as destructive greenhouse gases, these chemicals are a factor in the destruction of the upper ozone layer and release pollutants into the atmosphere. In the United States, The Clean Air Act defines the EPA’s role in preserving our air quality and limiting further damage to the ozone. There are similar laws in several other countries throughout the world.

The main job of the Clean Air Act is to set forth proper procedures for dealing with refrigerant gases. This involves intense, detailed materials management and tracking. EPA officials, federal regulators and local agents are all partners in monitoring and inspecting commercial and residential heating and air conditioning systems. They may perform random spot checks of locations, audit service records and purchase orders, or periodically review transport logs of gas delivery and removal. This is meant to ensure that harmful greenhouse gases are used and disposed of in accordance with federal regulations in order to minimize environmental impact. The current law also mandates that technicians be EPA certified before performing any maintenance work on an HVAC system containing refrigerant gases.

In 2009, the Clean Air Act was amended to include specific regulations that will allow HVAC system owners and service professionals to monitor leaks more accurately and make sure that refrigerants are recycled, recovered and documented properly. Anyone who is in contact with systems that have 50 pounds or more of refrigerant gas—either through ownership or service profession—will now be required to keep thorough service records, regularly monitor systems for leaks, log all refrigerant purchases, and present yearly reports of use and disposal of gases. These more detailed reports will make it easier for the EPA to gauge the effects these gases have on the environment and their impact on global climate change.

While the Clean Air Act has long been a means of protecting the environment by limiting the release of harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, these amended regulations will go one step further by empowering consumers and service professionals to take a more active role in environmental protection.



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Quick and Easy Toilet Repairs That Anyone Can Do!

Even if you’re less than handy when it comes to home plumbing repairs, the following toilet tricks are simple enough for you to tackle on your own.


Phantom Toilet Flushes:

If your toilet frequently refills spontaneously, as though somebody has just flushed it, you’ve got a phantom flush. No, your house probably isn’t haunted, but that sporadic running is caused by a slow leak from the toilet tank into the toilet bowl. The problem is likely a bad flapper or flapper seat. To fix it, drain the toilet tank and the toilet bowl, and check the flapper. Clean the seat if necessary or replace the flapper mechanism if it appears cracked, worn or damaged. Flappers and flapper parts are available at any hardware store.


Toilet Bowl Emptying Too Slowly:

A weak flush, or a toilet bowl that empties too slowly, usually means the flush holes under the rim of the bowl are clogged. Using a curved piece of wire, gently poke each hole to clear away debris. A wire coat hanger works well for this, and you can use a small mirror to help you find the holes inside the toilet rim.


Ugly Toilet Clogs:

By far the most common—and frequently most unpleasant—toilet problem is a clog. To clear a clogged toilet drain, try a force-cup plunger instead of the standard type. A force-cup plunger has a small rubber extension at the bottom that fits into the bowl drain for better suction. Put the bulb into the drain and pump straight up and down with force. Slowly lift the handle and let some water in to see if the clog is cleared.

If you’ve got a really serious toilet clog, you may need something a little stronger than a plunger. Try a closet auger, which you can purchase at any home improvement or plumbing supply store. Insert the auger into the toilet drain and twist the handle as you push the rotor down. Be careful not to scratch the bowl.


Leaky Toilet Seals:

There are at least five seals on a standard toilet, and all of them can leak. Before you can fix it, you have to figure out which seal is leaking. The largest seal is between the toilet tank and the toilet bowl; if you’ve got a leak here, water will shoot out from under the tank every time the toilet is flushed. The smaller seals at the bolts that mount the toilet to the floor and the one at the base of the ballcock will cause smaller leaks. To replace one of these faulty seals, drain the water from the toilet tank first. Then simply take off the damaged seal and put on a new one. If you suspect a leak at one of the smaller seals, you might also try tightening the bolts or nuts; this can often stop a minor leak.

The fifth seal is the wax seal mounted underneath the base of the toilet. If this seal is damaged, you’ll have water leaking from the toilet onto the floor. This can cause the floor to rot, which means big trouble. If you simply caulk the seal without repairing the leak, water will be trapped under the base of the toilet, making the situation worse. You’ll have to remove the entire toilet and replace the wax seal. If you don’t feel up to it, this would be the time to call in a plumbing professional.



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Energy Efficient Home Improvements Can Help Your Bottom Line at Tax Time!

As you probably know, the Federal Government has been offering tax credits up to $1,500 for homeowners who make energy-efficient improvements to their homes -- everything from installing energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems to new water heaters to new windows, doors and roofs. Not only are these incentives a great way to save cash now and in the future, they're stimulative to the economy and help improve our environment.

But there are some things about these tax breaks you probably don't know. For one thing, the $1,500 tax credit is currently set to expire on December 31, 2010--and that deadline is rapidly approaching. Some people think that means they only need to purchase a new energy-efficient improvement by that date to get the tax credit. NOPE. In order to get the tax credit, you not only need to make the purchase, but you need to have it INSTALLED by December 31, 2010. So if you've been thinking of investing in a new energy-efficient heating system, air conditioning system, hot water heater or any green home improvement, TIME IS REALLY RUNNING OUT. Act now!

Another little known fact is that for higher-end renewable energy sources like solar or geothermal power, you can claim a tax credit of up to 30% of your cost. Since these alternative systems are usually much more expensive to install, these credits can seriously offset your costs. Furthermore, this high-end credit can be used toward the Alternative Minimum Tax liability and unused credits can be carried over to the next tax year.

Naturally, not every heater, air conditioner or other piece of equipment qualifies for the $1,500 tax credit and other green tax breaks; there are restrictions. So before you buy, make sure you have all the facts. You can find a complete list of all the federal green tax credits as well as full details and qualifications for each at http://www.energytaxincentives.org/.



Green Tax Breaks in YOUR State

In addition, most states now offer their own green tax credits on top of the federal program. Unfortunately, the current economic climate has dramatically affected many state green programs. Because, unlike the federal government, states are not allowed to operate with a budget deficit, many states are having to make spending cuts that are likely to impact or even eliminate state tax credits altogether. This has made several state programs very selective about when and how credits are offered.

If your state does offer a generous green tax break, be sure to do your homework to make sure you’ll qualify before undertaking a big project. Some states, like New York and California, limit green credits based on project completion dates and other qualifying criteria.

A comprehensive list of green tax credits organized by state is available at http://www.dsireusa.org/.



Additional Considerations About Green Tax Breaks:

Don’t assume anything. Not all green improvements are subjected to federal or state tax breaks and there are certain qualifications—like purchasing approved equipment or using a certified contractor—that have to be met. Get all the facts before you begin a project.

Many green tax credits are available only to contractors, not homeowners or do-it-yourselfers. Talk to a trusted professional about your options and shop around to find someone willing to pass along their tax break to you in the form of lower costs.

Get out your calculator and figure how state and federal credits will work together to impact your project’s bottom line. A renovation that seems completely out of reach for your budget may cost significantly less when you combine both state and federal incentives. On the other hand, you may not be getting as much of a break as you think if your project only qualifies for one and not the other.



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How to Make Sure You Are Hiring the Right Plumber for the Job!

Hiring a plumber can be an intimidating task. It’s hard to find a plumbing contractor you can trust, who will do quality work at a reasonable price. Narrowing down the list of plumbers in your local area is sure to take some time, but the following checklist will help you make that all-important final decision before you contract someone to work on your home’s plumbing.


Questions about the Plumber:

1. How long have you been a plumber? While it’s nice to give “the new guy” a chance, your kitchen or bathroom may not be an appropriate place to do it. If experience is important to you, ask this question first. Be suspicious of anyone working alone who’s been doing plumbing work less than three years.


2. How did you receive your professional plumbing training? Most plumbers learn their trade through formal schooling or through an apprenticeship with an established professional. They also receive on-going training to keep their plumbing skills sharp and learn new plumbing techniques and technologies. If you can find a plumber who is certified through a formal program such as NATE, even better.


3. Do you belong to any professional organizations? There are several professional plumbing organizations and associations. A plumber who is a member in any of these is likely to be bound by a code of ethics that may help protect you in case something goes wrong with your project.


4. Are you licensed and registered? This is another way to protect yourself from unscrupulous plumbing contractors. Never hire a plumber or any other home improvement professional that cannot produce a state license and certificate of registration.


5. Are you insured? It is essential that any plumber you ask into your home to perform work carried adequate insurance. Hiring an uninsured plumber is like driving a car without automobile insurance.


6. Can you give me a list of references? Good plumbers rely on past clients to spread the word about their business; bad plumbers consider references a major liability. Always ask for references and end the interview if the plumber can’t or won’t give you at least a few names and phone numbers. Make sure you follow up, too.

Questions About the Plumber’s Work:

1. Will you give me a written warranty? Reliable plumbers should have no problem backing up their work with a warranty. And don’t take your plumber’s word—even if he seems like a great guy, get the guarantee in writing.


2. Will you need a permit? Many bath and plumbing projects require local permits, which can be obtained from your county or municipal offices. Your plumber should be able to answer this question quickly or leave you with the impression that he knows how to go about obtaining the necessary permissions. If you get the sense that the plumber is very unsure or doesn’t understand what you’re asking, show him the door.


3. How long will this project take? An experienced plumber has seen it all before and should be able to give you a reasonable estimate of how long it will take to complete your project. If he’s vague or tells you there’s no way to know how long the job will take, keep looking.

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Alternative Home Heating Systems Offer Exceptional Energy Efficiency

The green movement has spawned an entire industry full of products and services designed to help homeowners make upgrades and improvements that will benefit the environment and reduce their monthly utility bills. One of the best and most effective ways to green your home is with a quality, energy-efficient heating system.

Traditional furnace or boiler systems start with cold air and cold water that have to be heated up to comfortable levels and are then distributed throughout your home. Alternative units simply reuse air and water that has already been heated, circulating it through your home over and over.

There are several different types of energy-efficient home heating systems to choose from. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, but a qualified professional can help you decide which is right for your home.

Solar heating uses specially-designed cells to collect energy from the sun that is then transferred to a holding tank. Water is heated in the tank and is then distributed throughout your home, providing heat.

Radiant floor heating is an increasingly popular option for many homeowners. Water is heated and circulated through special pipes below the floor. As the floor warms, heat rises and makes your entire home more comfortable.

Geothermal and recirculating hot water heating systems use warm water and energy-efficient pumps to distribute heat throughout your home.

Traditional heating systems require huge amounts of energy and the burning of fossil fuels to function properly. Alternative heating systems actually conserve energy by redistributing it through your home again and again. By capturing and reusing warm air and hot water, these eco-friendly heating systems don’t have to work as hard to warm the air and water inside your house. This results in substantial energy savings, reduced dependence on limited natural resources, and more money in your pocket.

While it’s true that these green heating systems cost a bit more than traditional forced air, boiler or furnace units, they bring a valuable return on your initial investment in just a few short years. Paying more up-front will result in major savings on your monthly utilities over time, and alternative heating systems generally last longer than traditional models, which saves on repair and replacement costs. And as the green building movement continues to gain momentum and utility costs continue to rise, homes with alternative heat sources are increasingly hot commodities for buyers. For current homeowners, that could mean more money for you when it comes time to sell.

Not all eco-friendly heating systems are the same, and not every system is right for every home. A trustworthy professional certified in alternative heating systems can help you navigate the complex world of circulating pumps, solar panels, geothermal heat exchangers, and radiant heat units. An experienced contractor will explain the types of systems that will work best for your home, help you locate the best quality equipment and supplies, and will see your project through from design to installation to teaching you how to use it properly. Taking your time with the process will ensure that you and your family can enjoy affordable, environmentally responsible home heating for years to come.




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A Heating Alternative You May Want to Consider

For some homeowners, electric baseboard heaters are the perfect solution to high utility costs and inefficient home heating. Like radiators, baseboard heaters warm surrounding air my emitting heat, but they can be controlled by a thermostat like central air and heating systems. Baseboard heaters sit along the bottom of a wall, using convection to take in cold air by the floor, heat it with electricity, then release the warmed air into the room. This cycle continues until the air along the floor is the same temperature as the rest of the room. The heater then shuts off until it’s needed again.

Many homeowners shy away from baseboard heaters because they’re just not that attractive. They are clearly visible along walls and can’t be hidden behind decorative grates or coverings. However, baseboard heaters are protected by a closed metal casing, which means they can be painted virtually any color imaginable with specially formulated metal and heat-safe paint. You can easily camouflage a baseboard heater so it blends in with the room’s décor. Plus, these units sit just a few inches off the ground and out from the wall, so they actually save more space than a portable heater and don’t require as much room as a traditional furnace.

Although baseboard heaters often take longer than other methods to reach the thermostat’s pre-set temperature, once a room is warmed it stays heated consistently. This makes baseboard heating very cost-effective, much more so than natural gas or other kinds of heating units.

There are many other benefits to baseboard heating over other home heating methods:

• A baseboard heater simply mounts along the bottom of any wall. There’s no ductwork, insulation, or maintenance required.


• Baseboard units are low-cost and don’t need seasonal repairs. They can be installed quickly and affordably in any room you want, eliminating the expense of whole-house installation.


• While furnaces are designed to heat an entire home -- even rooms that don’t get used every day -- baseboard heaters provide heat only where you want it, conserving energy and saving you money on utility bills.


• Baseboard heaters are safer than space heaters. They are covered with a protective metal guard that keeps the heating core mechanism out of sight and out of reach. Children, pets, dirt, dust, and debris can’t get at the dangerous heating unit.


• Baseboard heaters are a breeze to maintain. Aside from setting your desired thermostat temperature, the only maintenance they require is an occasional cleaning with a vacuum or dry mop and regular dusting of the metal guard.


• Baseboard heaters eliminate drafts. Because these systems don’t rely on vents or ducts to deliver heat, there’s less chance of heat loss from the source to your room.


• Baseboard heaters make your home more comfortable. They aren’t as noisy as a furnace and don’t dry out the air. You won’t have to worry about dry skin, chapped lips, and dried out sinuses.
  
  

Horizon Services Can Answer Your Baseboard Heating Questions

Horizon's heating technicians are available 24/7 in Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland to service and repair your baseboard heater. And our experienced Comfort Consultants can perform a FREE, no-obligation In-Home Energy Analysis to help you decide whether baseboard heating or some other heating system is best for your heating needs.



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A Little Preventive Medicine for Your Heating and Air Conditioning System Can Go a Long Way!

As summer is coming to an end and winter's cold weather is just around the corner, you'll definitely want to make sure your home’s heating system is functioning properly for the winter ahead...and that your air conditioner has successfully survived the long, hot summer without any damage or problems. The following checklist can help you decide if you need to make some improvements, replace equipment, or consult a professional about more extensive repairs.

If your heater, heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it with an Energy Star rated system. When installed by an expert, these units will improve your home’s energy efficiency and can help you save up to 20% on your utility bills.

If your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old, you may want to research Energy Star certified units. These newer systems are almost 15% more energy efficient than older furnaces, while an Energy Star boiler is about 5% more efficient than an older model.

If you’ve noticed a dramatic increase in the number of times you have to call in a professional to repair your heating and cooling system, or your utility bills keep rising no matter what you try to do to save energy, your current system is not working as efficiently as it should and it may be time to replace your unit.

If you notice that certain rooms in your house are always too hot or too cold, your heating or cooling system may be malfunctioning or your ductwork or insulation could need some attention.

If you spend the better part of the day away from home and you don’t have a programmable thermostat, you could be wasting energy—and money. An Energy Star certified programmable thermostat lets you control the temperature of your home when you’re not there, saving energy and money.

If you notice condensation on windows and sills or the humidity in your home is never quite right, your system could need work and an overhaul. Leaky ducts can also make your home too humid in summer and overly dry in winter.

If you find it nearly impossible to keep up with the dust inside your home, it could mean that your ductwork is leaking. Improperly sealed ducts pull air and dust particles from attics, basements and crawl spaces, circulating them throughout your home.

If your heating or cooling system makes a lot of noise, your ducts could be too small or one of the key components of your system could be malfunctioning.

Use the Home Energy Yardstick found on the EPA's Energy Star website to determine your home’s energy health. To complete the survey, you’ll need to gather your utility bills from the last 12 months or request a 12-month summary of charges from your energy provider, information about your home’s energy sources—natural gas, oil, electricity, propane, kerosene—and the total square footage of your home. Simply enter this information in the right places and let the yardstick calculate your home’s energy efficiency rating. If you score lower than five, your home is using more energy than average and you are likely paying more than you have to on your utility bills.

Finally, it's always a great idea to give your heating and air conditioning system a tune-up and cleaning before the start of the summer or winter season. A tune-up will make sure that your heater or air conditioner starts the season in optimal working condition and will operate at peak energy-efficiency. It will also extend the life of your heating and air conditioning system and is your best assurance that your heater or air conditioner won't break down at an inopportune time -- like right in the middle of a heatwave or cold snap!



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All Hot Water Heaters are Not Alike!

If you’re like most Americans, you probably take your hot water for granted. It’s there when you need it, and the only time you notice it is when it’s gone. The following is an overview of hot water heaters with some simple tips to help you figure out your home’s hot water needs to ensure you’re never left standing in the cold (water).


Hot Water Heater Sizes
Residential hot water heaters come in three basic sizes: 30-, 40-, or 50-gallon capacity. If you look at the nameplate on your water heater, it will tell you how large the unit is. Should you need to replace your heater, it’s best to choose a new one with the same capacity as the old one unless you’ve just added a dishwasher, washing machine, or bathroom, or plan to make these changes soon.

A good rule of thumb for calculating your home’s hot water needs is to count the number of bathrooms in the house. For single bathroom homes, a 30- or 40-gallon unit is sufficient; for homes with 1 ½ baths, a 40-gallon tank is the minimum; for homes with two or more bathrooms, you’ll need at least a 50-gallon capacity.


Gas vs. Electric Hot Water Heaters
The type of fuel used to power a hot water heater can have a significant impact on the device’s capacity. A water heater’s capacity depends on two factors: its total storage and its recover time, or how quickly it can warm a full tank of water. Both gas and electric water heaters are rated based on how many gallons they can heat to 90 degrees F in an hour.

For example, a 40-gallon gas water heater with 40,000 BTU can heat its entire capacity in an hour. A 40-gallon electric heater using 240 volts is only able to heat half its capacity in that time.
Electric water heaters take longer to warm up than most gas-powered models, so if you’re planning to buy an electric system it should be larger than its gas counterpart. This is especially true if you have a large family or use more hot water than the average household. Residential electric hot water heaters can be purchased with capacities as large as 100 gallons or more.


Tankless Hot Water Heaters
An emerging trend in hot water heaters is the tankless unit. Tankless heaters heat only the water that is needed in the moment; they don’t store heated water for future use. These devices are more energy efficient because they require less power than conventional water heaters that must constantly heat and reheat water stored in the tank to keep it ready for use. Though a tankless water heater will likely cost significantly more to purchase than a traditional hot water heater, it will more than pay for itself in monthly energy savings, and you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water. There are electric tankless models, but gas-powered units are generally more effective.


Need Help With Your Hot Water Heater?
Horizon Services is always available fix or help you maintain your hot water heater. We also sell and install hot water heaters from leading brands such as Rheem, Bradford White, A.O. Smith and others.



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