These Home Appliances Suck Up a Surprising Amount of Electricity!

When we think of energy consuming appliances, big ticket items such as refrigerators, air conditioners and washing machines tend to top the list. However, some of the most costly appliances in your home are actually the smallest. Small devices like cell phone chargers and computer printers use lots of energy, and as these gadgets become more common in our homes the amount of energy they use grows exponentially.

What is the main reason so many of these small appliances use so much power? It is because they are almost always plugged into electrical outlets, even when they are not in use. They draw energy constantly, even when they are turned off or the devices they power have been disconnected.

Check out our list of the most energy inefficient small appliances. How many do you have in your home?


Plasma TVs:
You know you want one. Plasma televisions are on most of our home entertainment wish lists, but these hot items are quite literally hot. They use a lot of energy and throw off a significant amount of heat, too. The average 42-inch plasma screen uses as much as 325 watts of electricity; that old-fashioned CRT TV you have lying around uses just 120 watts. LCD TVs are a good compromise, using about 200 watts of electricity.

Digital Photo Frames:
Once a novelty item, digital picture frames are quickly becoming more commonplace as they become more affordable. However, according to a recent estimate from the Electric Power Research Institute, if every home in the US had one of these frames operating 24 hours a day it would take five entire power plants to keep them all running.

Video Game Consoles:
Video games have come a long way since Pac Man and Pong. Today’s games require high level digital processors to control all of those stunning graphics, and those processors require tons of energy. Compounding the problem is that energy-efficiency standards have yet to catch up to video game consoles like Sony’s PlayStation and Microsoft’s Xbox 360. The Natural Resources Defense Council estimates that game consoles consume around 16 billion kilowatt hours of electricity each year. This is roughly the same amount of yearly energy usage as the entire city of San Diego.

Set-Top Boxes:
Cable and digital converter boxes for your television may seem like pretty innocuous devices. While they only draw about 30 watts of energy, these boxes are always on—even when the TV is turned off. A single box can use as much as 265 kilowatt hours of electricity in a year. This is equal to the annual energy consumption of a 28-inch tube television.

Battery Chargers:
It seems that everything that rings, beeps or clicks now comes with its very own battery charger. Although these small devices do not use much energy—only about 10 watts—most of us simply plug them into the wall and leave them there, connecting them to the phone, camera or portable DVD player only when we need a charge. Even when there is nothing attached to them, battery chargers continuously draw power if they are plugged in. Consider the fact that most American homes have at least half a dozen chargers, and our total energy consumption adds up to the output of several large power plants.



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Insulated Window Treatments Conserve Energy, Increase Comfort

If rising fuel and heating prices have you searching this winter for energy-saving alternatives that are easy on your already tight budget, consider insulated window treatments. No matter where you live, these specialty drapes will help cut your energy and heating costs while adding a little style to any room.

One of the biggest areas of heat loss in most homes is drafty old windows and doors. Even tiny openings can suck out a significant amount of heat, forcing your home’s heating and cooling system to work harder and costing you more money on utilities. Fortunately, it is pretty easy to remedy the situation without spending thousands of dollars on new windows.

First, be sure your windows and doors are sealed as well as possible. Re-caulk and replace worn weather stripping to fix drafts. After all, putting up insulated window treatments won’t do much to combat ill-fitting widow sashes and door seals.

Once you have ensured that all the windows in your house are sealed up tight, there are lots of options for insulating your home with window treatments.


Cellular Shades:
Many of the industry’s top manufacturers now market cellular shades that incorporate single, double, and triple layers of cells to absorb drafts and stop heating or cooling loss. These shades are available in a variety of light control strengths, from semi-opaque to blackout. In terms of style, there is a wide range and you should not have any trouble finding something to complement your décor.


Insulated Drapes:
This is another great way to insulate your home without sacrificing style. Choose a heavy fabric to ensure the best possible result, or consider combining an insulated shade with coordinating traditional curtains for a more customized look. For the ultimate energy savings, pair insulated drapes with cellular shades to restrict heating and cooling loss nearly completely.


Plantation Shutters:
Often used simply for aesthetic purposes on a home’s exterior, plantation shutters actually do a fairly decent job insulating windows and preventing heat and energy loss. Composite or vinyl shutters are particularly effective for insulation. While plantation shutters cannot quite compare to cellular shades or insulated drapes, they do offer a decent amount of insulation when fully closed.


Additional Winter Window and Heating Tips:
No matter which kind of insulated window treatment you choose, be sure to install it as flush with the panes as possible. This will ensure the treatment is able to perform as effectively as possible.

Budget and style preferences will typically dictate which kind of insulated window treatment you select for your home heating and comfort needs. Though the most expensive, triple layer cellular shades are the most efficient and may be especially helpful if you live in a really cold climate.

Over time, any investment in insulated window treatments will pay for itself in a relatively short time thanks to heating savings and general comfort. You will pay less on your heating and energy bills and will be able to enjoy the perfect indoor temperature throughout your home.

Insulated window treatments can be found at most retailers including home improvement stores, discount stores, department stores, and specialty home interiors stores.



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See Areas Where You Can Improve Your Energy Efficiency...and Slash Your Utility Bills!

For many homeowners feeling the economic pinch, any unnecessary home spending is to be avoided at all costs. If you fall into this category, a home energy audit can be a great way to show you if you are using energy efficiently in heating, cooling, lighting and powering your home...and show you where you may be wasting valuable energy dollars.

According to industry research, a home energy audit can reveal savings as much as 30 percent off your monthly utility bills. With utility prices expected to SKYROCKET in the coming months and years, those savings can be ENORMOUS.


How Home Energy Audits Work
A professional home energy auditor will come to your home and examine your property. He or she will look over your energy bills and analyze your energy usage. The enegy auditor will also inspect your home floor to roof -- including your heating and cooling system -- and do a number of special tests to see if energy is being consumed efficiently or wasted.

Two tests that any reputable home energy auditor will perform are the blower door test and a thermographic scan. The blower door test helps identify leaks and drafts around doors and windows, while the thermographic scan finds areas where you home is letting in cold or losing heat.

When all this data is compiled, the home energy auditor will create a detailed plan of ways you can improve the energy efficiency of your home. Some of the most common suggestions include upgrading appliances, increasing insulation, and installing weather-stripping or a programmable thermostat.


How Much do Home Energy Audits Cost?
A residential home energy audit will likely cost several hundred dollars, but you may have to pay much more than that to implement all the auditor’s suggestions, especially if you live in an older home. If your home is newer or you’ve recently updated your major appliances, you’ll spend less to get the most energy efficient features.

A home energy audit is completely useless if you don’t follow the auditor’s suggestions, but the good part is that you’ll get a detailed plan that you can follow as time and budget allow. You have the freedom to make changes little by little, shop around for deals, or wait for sales and rebate programs to kick in. There are usually several small changes you can make on your own for very little money, too, while some many need to be reserved for professionals. Remember, though, that even small home improvements can translate into pretty significant energy savings.


Is a Home Energy Audit Right for You?
Nearly every residential property can be made more energy efficient in some way. However, if your home is less than 10 years old, was designed to be energy efficient, or is a certified green home there’s probably not much an auditor will be able to tell you that isn’t already in place on your property. But if your home is decades old, a fixer-upper, hasn’t been updated with a new HVAC system in more than 20 years, or if it seems like your monthly utility bills just keep getting higher and higher, an energy audit could make a real difference for your peace of mind and your pocketbook.

In 2011, Delaware residents can take part in a new program called Energize Delaware. Under this program, Delaware homeowners can qualify for cash rebates up to $8,250 in eligible home improvements ranging from sealing air leaks to adding installation to upgrading or replacing heating and cooling systems. To qualify, you must be a registered owner of a detached, single-family residence, you must received a home energy audit and install qualified Energy Star equipment. Contact Horizon Services for more information on this program.



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Clean Furnace Filters Deliver Better Indoor Air Quality and Energy Efficiency!

It’s winter and most of us have already begun to feel the effects of poor indoor air quality: dry skin, dry sinuses, stale air, etc. The average person inhales about 32,000 pints of air in a single day. Every one of those pints contains billions and billions of tiny particles of dust, pollen, dirt, and other microscopic debris. In fact, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Yuck!

Spending lots of time inside during the cold winter months can really do a number on your respiratory system, but there is a way to significantly improve the quality of the air inside your home. It is simple, inexpensive, and really effective. So what is it? Clean or change your furnace air filter!

In order to create the healthiest indoor environment possible, you have to keep the air clean. The best way to accomplish this is to select a furnace air filter that meets the needs of you and your family. Sounds simple, right? Unfortunately, the furnace air filter is a frequently overlooked source of poor indoor air quality, especially during the winter when heating systems run almost constantly.

As air passes through your home’s heating system, the furnace air filter traps dust and other particles and prevents them from entering your home. After several months, most furnace filters become so dirty that they can no longer effectively remove these pollutants from the air. What’s more, a dirty furnace air filter prevents your heating system from working at its peak so you could see an increase in your utility bills. Cleaning or changing the furnace filter regularly will not only improve the air inside your home, but it will also help you save money.

There are many different kinds of furnace air filters available. The key to choosing the right furnace filter is to decide which best suits your needs and your particular system. Each type of furnace filter has a different efficiency rating, different strengths and weaknesses, and different features that make them desirable for certain customers.

Generally, furnace air filters fall into one of several categories:

• Electrostatic furnace filters: Use an electric charge to attract particles; are washable and reusable
• Media furnace filters: Most frequently used in commercial applications; trap particles in thick layers of disposable material and need to be changed less frequently than other types
• Pleated furnace filters: Most common type; large surface area traps particles before they reach system interior
• HEPA furnace filters: Capture 99.9% of particles; good for allergy sufferers or environments where good air quality is essential (i.e. hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, etc.)
• Activated carbon furnace filters: Good for removing unpleasant odors from air (ex. cigarette smoke, gases, chemical smells, cooking odors, etc.)
• Fiberglass furnace filters: Durable; sometimes coated with special adhesive to trap dust and dirt particles

Improving your indoor air quality is not the only reason to replace your furnace air filter. Dirty furnace filters are one of the primary causes of furnace breakdowns and high heating costs. The more dust and debris that accumulates on your furnace filter, the harder your furnace has to work. Your furnace air filter should be changed every three months to maintain optimum performance. Always be sure to select the right size and type of filter for your heating system. Your Horizon Services Heating Technician can advise you on the best furnace filter for your system.


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Get In On This "Ground" Floor Opportunity!

With the growing interest in "green" technologies and energy-efficiency in the home, one of the most popular environmentally and energy conscious innovations in the last several years is geothermal heating and cooling. Geothermal heating and cooling is a process that uses the natural heat storage capacity of the earth or ground water as a source of energy efficient heating and cooling.

Geothermal heating and cooling systems use a special kind of heat pump -- very similar to the air source heat pumps many homes use today -- to draw warm or cool air from below the earth's surface. Long considered prohibitively expensive, this eco-friendly type of home heating unit is becoming more and more affordable while still offering a clean, natural source of heat that can significantly lower utility bills. If you think it might be time to take a closer look at geothermal heating for your home, here are some things you should know.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling is Not Science Fiction
While many green technologies might seem like something out of a futuristic adventure movie, the reality of geothermal heating and cooling is here. Not only is this alternative heating/cooling method widely available all over the country, but its popularity is spreading. According to one source, requests for geothermal heating and cooling systems installation rose more than 266% in one year alone. The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) estimates that roughly 50,000 geothermal heat pumps are installed in American homes each year.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Won’t Break the Bank
You will absolutely pay more up front for a geothermal heat pump than you would for a conventional heat pump or furnace. But the money you’ll save on home heating and cooling costs will add up so quickly that the device will more than pay for itself in just a few years. The EERE says that a geothermal heat pump allows owners to recoup additional costs in about 5 to 10 years. Furthermore, with so many homeowners—and home buyers—looking for environmentally responsible amenities, having a geothermal heat pump installed could be a major selling point when it comes time to sell your home.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Can Go the Distance
The internal components of a geothermal heat pump will last about 25 years. The outdoor and underground mechanisms can last twice as long. Not even a high end furnace will keep running that long.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling is Versatile
Geothermal systems can also cool your home in the summer using the same ductwork you use to circulate heat in the winter. You’ll help reduce pollution and your monthly energy bills with a simple flip of the switch. You can also find geothermal heat systems are capable of heating your hot water, which can save you even more money.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling Can Save You Even More
Modern geothermal heat systems are easy to install, energy efficient, and more affordable than ever before. Many state governments are still offering rebates and discounts for homeowners who choose to install these environmentally-friendly systems in their homes. You could save thousands of dollars off the cost of a geothermal heat pump by taking advantage of these programs. And you may still qualify for federal credits if your system was installed after December 2007 and you have not yet applied for the incentives. A quick search of the Internet will reveal much more information about discounts, incentives, rebates, tax credits and programs available in your state or from the federal government.

As demand for alternative energy and home products continue to increase, it’s obvious that geothermal heating will maintain a pattern of growth for some time. Wait long enough, and there’s a good chance that the high initial cost will come down enough to make this heating system an affordable option for a majority of homeowners. But whether you decide to take the plunge or wait it out, there’s no denying that geothermal heating is a significant step toward environmental responsibility that doesn’t require a sacrifice of performance or lifestyle.

Contact Horizon Services

If you are interested in learning more about Geothermal Heating and Cooling contact Horizon Services today!

DE (302) 250-4043
PA (610) 616-4265

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Important Considerations BEFORE You Make the Green Plunge!

By now, we’re all pretty familiar with the term “going green.” When it comes to home improvments and remodeling, however, there are a few facts that you may not have considered. Before you decide to undertake a green home upgrade, it’s important to have all the information.


Protected Trees and Tree Farms

The phrase “tree-hugger” has long been used as a slightly derogatory description of an individual who is environmentally conscious. The implication is that people who care about the natural world are against any practice or industry that disrupts organic processes—like cutting down trees. It’s sort of ironic, then, that one of the greenest construction materials you can buy is wood harvested from tree farms. Farmed trees are cultivated and grown specifically to supply American construction demand; this means that indigenous, protected, or endangered trees are left alone.


Think Global, Buy Local

This mantra has been associated with eco-consciousness for some time, but when it comes to home remodeling it’s an important consideration. You may spend months researching the most environmentally responsible building materials, but if those items have to travel by ship, train, and truck over thousands of miles to get to you, what have you really accomplished? The greater the distance a product has to travel, the more energy it takes to get it to its final destination. Measuring the impact of transport is difficult, so it makes sense to shop as close to home as possible.

What’s the easiest way to do this? Compare prices. It seems simple, but often the price of materials is a good indication of how far it’s had to go to get to your local supplier. You’ll pay more for items that have be shipped all over the globe during the manufacturing process, while materials produced and fabricated closer to home will usually cost less.


Green Today, Green Tomorrow?

Maintenance is an important consideration if you’re thinking about green remodeling. While that natural marble countertop you’ve chosen may seem like the most eco-friendly choice now, you’ll have to frequently reapply sealant that contains high levels of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) to keep it looking great. You can buy zero-VOC marble sealant, but it’s significantly less effective than the nasty stuff. Artificially engineered stone, on the other hand, may seem like an “un-green” choice, but it requires no sealant and minimal upkeep, making it the more environmentally responsible option in the long run.

Residential fencing is another area where the greenest choice is not always apparent at the outset. Based on information we provided earlier, it may seem like wooden fencing is the best option. However, wood exposed to the elements has to receive yearly treatments with high VOC sealants to keep it looking presentable; this means you’re releasing harmful toxins into the air year after year. It may seem that aluminum or vinyl fencing takes a bigger toll on the environment initially, but when you consider how little maintenance they need (a spray with the garden hose or a high pressure wash every couple of years) there’s really no comparison.

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Make Energy Efficiency a Top Priority in 2011

Each year around this time, millions of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking, and other things to improve their health. But how many of us make New Year's resolutions to improve their homes...or save money on their heating and cooling costs? Not many.

The Horizon Comfort Zone doesn't want you to give up those health-related New Year’s Resolutions -- they're great! But why not sweeten the mix by focusing on your home heating and cooling system and overall energy usage, too? Energy-Efficient New Year's Resolutions are not only good for the environment, they're good for your wallet. PLUS -- they're pretty easy resolutions to do and keep...a lot easier than avoiding food, cigarettes and alcohol!

Here are some great energy efficient New Year's resolutions you should consider making for 2011:

• Change Your Furnace or Air Conditioning Filter: Dirty filters impede air flow and make your furnace or air conditioner work harder. This increases your energy consumption, as well as the likelihood of furnace or air conditioner breakdowns. Be sure to check your filters monthly. Replace or clean them according to the schedule recommended by your HVAC service technician or by the manufacturer -- for most heating and air conditioning systems during peak season, that's about once a month.

• Go Digital with a Programmable Thermostat: Why waste energy heating or cooling your home when you are not there? With a programmable thermostat, you can pre-set the times and temperatures in which your heater or air conditioner will run. According to industry experts, a programmable thermostat can save you as much as $200 per year in energy costs.

• Buy a Fan: Fans can help circulate warm or cool air evenly throughout rooms or even entire floors of your house. This reduces a lot of wear and tear on your heater or air conditioner.

• Consider Zoned Heating: Why heat or cool rooms or floors if you're not in them? With a zoned heating/cooling system, you can send heated or cooled air where you want it. No heat or air conditioning is wasted. And the energy savings can be huge.

• Seal Air Leaks: Feel a draft around doors, windows or vents? If so, you could be leaking warm or cool air. That's money out the door for nothing. And as a result of the leak, you are probably running your heater or air conditioner more than you need to; that's adding wear and tear to your heating and cooling system. Check out your local hardware store for caulk, tape and other sealants that you can use to seal leaks around your house. It's a very quick, easy and inexpensive fix and it can save you big bucks in energy costs.

• Stop Blocking Registers and Vents: Check around your house to see if your registers and vents are blocked by furniture and other obstructions If so, you are wasting heat and air conditioning. Move these items aways from vents and registers so you can fill your rooms with more warm air in winter and more cool, air conditioned air in summer.

• Get a Tune-Up: It makes sense to get your car tuned up periodically and inspected once a year. Doesn't it make sense to do the same for your heating and cooling system? Regular tune ups and maintenance are the easiest and most important things you can do to guarantee that your heater or air conditioner performs at peak efficiency and doesn't break down at an inopportune time. Tune ups can extend the life of your heater or air conditioner, too. Don't be one of those procrastinators who say they'll wait till next year to get a tune up...have your HVAC system checked at least annually...starting THIS YEAR!

• Upgrade to a More Modern Heating & Cooling System: Make this the year you get rid of that old clunker of a heater and that rusty bucket-of-bolts you call an air conditioner! Today's technologically advanced heating and cooling systems are a far cry better than the heaters and air conditioners made just a decade ago. They perform at much higher energy efficiency levels. They provide more comfortable heating and cooling. The last longer. They require fewer repairs. And they're a better value: they generally pay for themselves in energy savings in just a few years. Tax breaks, rebates, manufacturer discounts and other incentives make them a better buy today than ever before.

Happy New Year from The Horizon Comfort Zone!

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Give the Gift of Energy Efficiency This Holiday Season!

It is gift-giving season once again, and many of us are struggling to find those last-minute, one-of-a-kind gifts. If a blanket with sleeves or a fruit of the month club membership is not exactly what you are looking for, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants you to shop Energy Star to help round out your holiday shopping list.

The average American household produces nearly twice as much greenhouse gas emissions as an automobile. By purchasing Energy Star rated products, you can reduce these emissions by as much as one-third and dramatically cut energy costs. It is a simple, easy way to help your family and friends save money and fight global climate change.


Home Entertainment

Home entertainment is always a winner when it comes to gift giving. Energy Star puts its label on just about anything you will find in the home entertainment aisle, from surround sound systems to TVs to Blu-ray disc players to stereos.


Office Products

If you are shopping for computers, printers, scanners, laptops, multi-purpose devices or other home office equipment this year, look for the Energy Star label. Your gift of Energy Star home office equipment can save the recipient up to $350 over the lifetime of some products. These devices also have built-in power management features that can help users save even more.


Energy Star Battery-Charged Devices

Energy Star even lends its seal to products that require battery chargers. These items – like digital cameras, electric shavers, power tools, hand vacuums, video game controls, and mobile phones – use 35 percent less energy compared to similar devices that use traditional chargers.
Remind the recipient that old battery chargers are accepted by most electronics recycling programs or, better yet, offer to turn in their old charger for them as part of the gift.


Other Ways to Save This Holiday Season

• Holiday Decorating: Look for the Energy Star seal on LED holiday lights and lighted décor. Qualified strings of LED lights use 75 percent less electricity than traditional lights and are available in a wide range of colors, shapes and sizes. They are also cooler to the touch, last longer than traditional bulbs, stand up to the elements better, and are more shock-resistant.
  


• Recycle Outdated Electronics: When old electronics are replaced by new Energy Star products, it is always a good idea to recycle the outdated items. Recycling electronics allows the valuable parts of these items to find new life, while the potentially harmful elements are disposed of safely. If you need more information about programs in your area, check out the EPA website for the Plug-In to eCycling initiative.
  


• Unplug Unused Electronics: Most of us don’t realize that electronics continue to draw energy – and cost us money – as long as they are turned on or plugged in. If you aren’t using something, turn it off; if your battery-operated device is fully charged, unplug it. Using power strips makes it easy to manage multiple devices at once, and you can turn them all off with the flip of a single switch.
  
  

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How to Make a Big Impact in Small Places!

If you rent an apartment or condo, you may feel pretty powerless when it comes to controlling your energy consumption. After all, most tenants are at the mercy of their landlords when it comes to things like selecting an HVAC system, water heater, or appliances. There are simple ways to change how much energy you use and reduce the cost of your utilities, though, regardless of your landlord’s choices.

The easiest place to start is with electricity. Figure out where and how you use electric power. This will help you evaluate your actual energy needs—Does your laptop really need to be plugged in and turned on all the time if you only use it to check email once a day? From there you can figure out ways to reduce your usage and increase efficiency. Whenever possible, purchase energy efficient appliances like washing machines, dryers, microwaves, TVs, stereos and computers. Look for the government’s Energy Star seal to help you identify brands that qualify. Use daylight as much as possible and only turn on lamps when absolutely necessary. Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with compact florescent ones, and turn off lights when you’re not using them.

You probably don’t have much of a voice when it comes to the type of heating or cooling system your landlord has installed in your building, but you do have complete control over when and how much to use these units. In cold weather, turn your heat down a degree or two lower than what’s comfortable; raise the temperature of your air conditioner a few degrees higher in the summer. Use fans or open up windows in warm weather, and consider purchasing an energy efficient space heater to help supplement your apartments heating system in winter. Hanging thermal drapes can also help you save significant energy and money.

Another area that you may not have much control over is the kind of water heater that’s connected to your apartment, but you can try to reduce your hot water consumption. Take quick showers rather than long baths, run the dishwasher or washing machine only when you have a full load, and use cold water to wash clothes (it will get your stuff just as clean as hot water and is actually easier on the fabric). Turn off the water when you’re not using it, and be sure to notify your landlord or superintendent if you have a leaky faucet, running toilet, or other plumbing problem you aren’t able to fix yourself. If you do have access to your apartment’s hot water heater, turn the thermostat down to 120 degrees. Water at this temperature is hot enough to clean and to prevent bacteria from forming in the tank, but is more cost effective.

If you are hunting for a new apartment here are some very important items to consider:

Does your apartment building have multiple floors? If so, those who live on the upper floors usually save a little more money on heating bills in the winter months. That's because they can take advantage of the residual heat that rises from the apartment units beneath them so they can lower their own thermostats a few degrees. The flip side of course is that apartment on top floors also tend to be warmer in the summertime due to both rising heat and to receiving more direct sunlight.

Most apartment hunters prefer a unit which faces south because they will get more sunlight over the course of a day. That's fine in the winter time when you want your apartment to be as warm as possible...but in summer, watch out: that extra sunlight means that you will probably run your air conditioner much more than your neighbors who face east, west or north.

Apartment buildings with stone or brick facades tend to be much warmer than buildings with siding. They hold in much more heat generated by both your heating system and from the sun. That can be a blessing in the winter time; but in summer, these buildings can often bake like a brick oven.

One trick that you can do to save on both your heating and cooling costs is to keep your apartment door open whenever you can. Chances are that your landlord heats and cools the lobby and hallways. If you have neighbors who like to run their heaters and air conditoners at full blast, a lot of their warm and cool air is going to wind up out in the hallways. If you can bring in some of this wasted or little used air into your apartment, you can really cut back on your own usage.

Discuss your energy efficiency concerns with your landlord and find out if there’s anything he or she can do to help make your apartment or your building more energy and cost efficient. A nice little reminder to sneak into that conversation: Tenant savings = landlord savings.



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

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

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

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

The Future is Now for Home Furnaces and Heating Systems!

As our world continues to contemplate the efficiency of existing heating technologies and more and more homeowners become concerned about depleting natural resources, especially fossil fuels, there have been several new innovations in home heating. Here we outline three of the leading alternative heating technologies.


Solar Panels:

Solar panels use photovoltaic cells to change sunlight to electricity. To use this technology effectively, a home needs a south-facing roof with a precise pitch so that the cells are exposed to maximum sunlight. While other heating sources like traditional furnaces and hybrid heating systems are still cheaper for most homeowners, solar panel heating systems are growing in popularity every year thanks to government subsidies and enthusiastic advocates.

According to one source, solar panel installation has increased nearly ten-fold since this time last year. For most homeowners, however, the cost of solar panel installation remains prohibitive. From start to finish, installation costs can run anywhere from $25,000 to more than $75,000 depending on geographical location and the size of the home. Even with government incentives and credits—which can often supplement almost half of the installation cost—it will take years for most homeowners to recoup the cost of initial installation.


Solar Furnaces:

Like solar panel heating systems, solar furnaces harness the power of the sun to heat your home. These devices work like a giant magnifying glass, concentrating sunlight on a single point to generate powerful heat. Highly reflective mirrors reflect the sun’s rays, creating temperatures up to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit for a standard furnace and more than 3000 degrees Fahrenheit for larger units. This heat can be converted to energy capable of powering a variety of other applications. Surprisingly, solar panels provide more efficient heating for residential furnaces, and solar furnaces are more effective at powering other things like ovens and other electric appliances.

The cost of a solar furnace is hard to pin down exactly. A crude solar furnace can be put together for as little as $10, while large commercial systems can cost millions. At this point, there are few middle-of-the-road options for homeowners who want to explore solar furnace heating, though there are several solar-powered oven ranges currently on the market. It is expected that this technology will experience rapid growth and development over the next five to ten years.


Geothermal Heating Systems:

The most tangible and efficient source of alternative home heating comes from the ground. More than half of the sun’s energy is absorbed into the ground, where it creates a nearly constant temperature that can be transferred to your home. Currently, geothermal heating has a much brighter future than most solar heating options available right now. Geothermal heating is an attractive choice for new home construction and green renovations, as it is much more affordable initially than solar options and pays for itself in just a few years with increased utility savings.

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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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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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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.



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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.


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Energy Conservation Tips for Your Air Conditioner

With 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.


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