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• Recycle Outdated Electronics: When old electronics are replaced by new Energy Star products, it is always a good idea to recycle the outdated items.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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The Energy Star Label Takes The Guesswork Out of Shopping for Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling Equipment!

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


What is Energy Star?

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

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


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

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

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

Does the EPA Ever Revise Energy Star Requirements?

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

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

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

How Reliable are Energy Star Ratings?

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

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

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


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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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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has managed the Energy Star labeling program for nearly twenty years, and has helped Americans cut greenhouse gas emissions and save billions on utility costs. In 2009 alone, Energy Star partners helped consumers avoid greenhouse gases in an amount equal to that of the output of 30 million cars and save more than $17 billion on utilities.

The EPA recently announced a new set of more stringent guidelines for Energy Star-certified home construction. These new conditions will raise the bar of energy efficiency for qualified homes, making them at least 20 percent more efficient than homes built to the previous standards. Homeowners will likely see at least a 15 percent drop in their utility bills, as well.

The EPA’s updated guidelines will further solidify the Energy Star brand as it’s applied to new home construction. Energy Star homes will continue to represent significant increases in energy efficiency over homes that are built to standard builder practices and codes. The new regulations will go into effect as of January 2011, though many builders and contractors are likely to start implementing the changes much earlier than that.

If you’re interested in learning more about Energy Star new home construction and how the new guidelines may affect your project, the key components of the revised plan are as follows:

• Homes must have a complete thermal enclosure system. This includes complete air sealing around windows and doors, adequate insulation around all assemblies, and high performance windows. This not only makes the home more comfortable, but also helps lower utility costs.


• Comprehensive central heating and cooling systems must meet Energy Star standards and be installed by qualified professionals. Energy efficient heating and cooling systems are designed to increase comfort, offer better moisture control, and operate quietly. They are also outfitted with fresh air ventilation to improve the quality of air inside the home.


• Because Energy Star homes are so tightly sealed and insulated, they must be equipped with a total water management system. Flashing, moisture barriers, and durable membrane details are all crucial elements in keeping water away from roofs, walls, and foundations. This reduces mold growth, which improves indoor air quality, and extends the durability of these structures.


• With energy efficient lighting and appliances certified by Energy Star, homeowners can enjoy even more energy savings without sacrificing performance quality.


• Energy Star and the EPA will now require all new construction to be third party verified by an independent home energy rater. These inspectors will conduct thorough, detailed examinations using specially designed diagnostic tools to measure performance of key systems.

The new EPA guidelines should come as no surprise to those who make their living building green homes. The revised regulations certainly don’t break much new ground, but they are solid, relatively simple changes that should translate into substantial utility savings while further reducing homeowner’s energy dependence.

If you are a homeowner considering an Energy Star certified new home construction, you can find out more about the program by visiting http://www.energystar.gov/ or by speaking with an experienced HVAC or home contractor in your area.


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Great Ways to Beat the Heat and Save Some Bucks!

The average American home spends about 20 percent of its total utility bill on cooling and air conditioning, yet with some simple, inexpensive changes it’s possible to save money and make your home more environmentally friendly while staying cool and comfortable. Here are some simple cooling and air conditioning tips from the Environmental Protection Agency and Energy Star that will cost you no or little money.


No Cost Cooling and Air Conditioning Options

Program your thermostat according to your summer activities. If you spend most of the day away from home, set your cooling system a few degrees higher than normal when the house is empty. You can then set the thermostat to a lower temperature shortly before you return home. Using a programmable thermostat properly can save nearly $200 a year on energy costs.

Check the filter on your home’s HVAC system once a month. If the air filter appears dirty or worn, change it. The filter should be changed at least once every three months anyway. A dirty filter inhibits air flow, forcing your system to work harder and driving up utility costs.

If you have ceiling fans, use them along with your air conditioner to create a cool breeze. Running a ceiling fan makes it possible to raise the thermostat—just two degrees higher can lower energy costs by as much as 14 percent. Don’t forget to turn the fans off when you leave the room, though.

Close curtains, blinds, and shades against the sun’s powerful rays. Blocking out the sun during the heat of the day can prevent the interior of your home from overheating. You can also try moving indoor plants and trees in front of windows to create shade.


Low Cost Cooling and Air Conditioning Options

Have your cooling system inspected by a professional once a year. Hiring a technician to clean and service your unit regularly will cost significantly less than replacing or repairing a neglected unit that has become damaged.

Change incandescent light bulbs for more energy-efficient options, like compact fluorescents (CFLs). Look for the Energy Star label to identify lighting that uses less energy and emits 75 percent less heat than traditional bulbs. This can help lower your cooling bill.

Make sure air ducts are sealed tightly using mastic sealant or metal tape. Insulate ducts in attics, crawlspaces, basements, and garages, too. About 20 percent of the cool air moving inside your home is lost through gaps and loosened connections in ductwork.

Check vent and register connections at walls, floors, and ceilings to ensure that all the ducts are fastened and sealed tight.

Other Cooling and Air Conditioning Considerations

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, look for the EPA’s Energy Star label. We could keep about 900 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions out of the air every year if each single room air conditioner in the country was Energy Star rated.

Insulate your attic. If every American household did it we could save more than $1.8 billion in energy costs every year.

Replace an air conditioning unit that’s more than 12 years old with an Energy Star rated system; you could cut your cooling costs by as much as 30 percent.



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