Ongoing Costs of Operation Are Just As Important as the Upfront Costs of Purchase and Installation

Buying a new home heating system is an important investment. The right heating system for your home will not only keep you and your family warm and safe, it will also run smoothly with minimal problems. It could significantly lower your monthly heating costs, and it can even enhance the value of your home. And, since this is an investment you’ll probably live with for years to come, you’ll want to invest wisely.

When shopping for a new heating system, you need to compare not only the initial cost to buy and install the system, but also how much it will cost you, on average, to operate your system.

Make sure you know the energy efficiency of the heating system you are getting. Older, conventional furnaces or boilers can often have an energy efficiency lower than 65%. Today’s more efficient heating systems have efficiency ratings that range from 78% to 97% for forced air systems and 80% to 95% for hot water systems. That’s why upgrading to a new, more efficient heating system has the potential for reducing your monthly heating bills by 20-40%.

The extra money you spend for a high-efficiency heater or heating system will pay you back in energy savings in a relatively short time. For example, suppose you are choosing between a heating system with an efficiency rating of 78% and one with a rating of 93%. The higher-efficiency heating system will cost $500 more, but will probably save you, on average, about $137 each year in operating costs. So you will recover the $500 additional upfront cost in less than five years. That's a big saving.

If you are not planning to stay in the home long enough to reach the payback point, you may wish to choose a lower-priced heating system. But remember, a high-efficiency heating system can be a good selling point when it comes time to sell your home.

Our Recommendation: Schedule a FREE In-Home Comfort Analysis from Horizon Services. One of our experienced Comfort Consultants will come to your home, study your house from top to bottom, get a sense of your heating requirements, then give you a complete report with recommendations on a heating system that is just right for your situation, as well as assist you in determining how much you can actually expect to save in monthly heating costs by upgrading to a more efficient heating system.

Related Heating System Installation Information...

• Horizon Services Heating Installation and Replacement
• 5 BIG Mistakes Homeowners Make When Replacing Their Heating and A/C Systems...
• How To Choose The Right Contractor
• SEER, AFUE and HSPF Ratings Explained

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.



Related Heating and Energy Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Heating Services
• 101 Ways to Save Energy and Money in Your Home
• Green Your Home...Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
• Home Energy Myths Debunked!
• Seasonal Energy Saving Tips
• 15 Ways To Stay Warm This Winter

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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• How To Choose The Right Contractor

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!

Related Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Heating Services
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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.



Related Energy Efficiency Information from Horizon Services...

• 101 Ways to Save Energy and Money in Your Home
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We all want to do our part to help the environment and cut down on rising utility costs. But for many homeowners, green alternatives and upgrades are simply too expensive to be realistic. However, now is an excellent time to consider making eco-friendly home improvements, as an array of financial incentives is bringing these alternative energy systems into the mainstream for buyers, sellers and homeowners.

If you’re in the market for a new home, you may be able to get more for your money when you consider homes with energy-efficient upgrades like solar heating or tankless water heaters. These systems mean lower utility costs every month, which leaves more room in your budget for a slightly higher mortgage payment.

If you plan to stay in your home but are looking for a way to save on monthly energy bills, you may qualify for state or federal tax credits or special financing that will help you make energy-efficient improvements. These upgrades will reduce your utility costs and benefit the environment.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, any energy-efficient upgrades you’ve added can mean a higher asking price. Eco-friendly homes are an increasingly popular segment of the real estate market and as more home buyers look for energy-efficient properties, those upgrades are becoming an appealing selling point.

If you need financing to make energy-efficient upgrades to your home, you can get the funds you need through either a government-sponsored program or a traditional lender. Certain states even provide special programs for residents who qualify, so it’s smart to begin your search with your state’s department of energy to find out what’s available in your area.

There are also special mortgage programs that can help you afford energy-efficient upgrades. Called EEMs, or energy-efficient mortgages, these programs allow both homeowners doing new construction and those making improvements to an existing structure to obtain financing. EEMs make it possible to purchase or refinance a home that’s already certified energy-efficient, or to purchase or refinance a home that will be energy efficient after certain upgrades are made. Most lenders offer both kinds of EEMs; you may also qualify for home-improvement loans that will help defer the cost of energy-efficient upgrades.

In order to qualify for these special mortgage programs, most lenders require homes to have an energy-efficiency rating. These ratings are based on an inspection by a certified professional and tell lenders how energy efficient your home is.

The energy rater will check all the features of your home that relate to its energy consumption. This includes windows, insulation, heating and cooling systems, water heaters, and ductwork. You will receive a report that includes your home’s energy rating, as well as an estimate of your yearly energy usage and spending. The report sometimes includes suggestions for improvements you can make to boost your home’s energy-efficiency and the costs of those upgrades, along with an estimate of the annual savings and return on investment of making changes.

Check Out These Resources from the Federal Government:

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - Energy Efficient Mortgage
  Home Owner Guide
• Energy Star - Energy Efficient Mortgages
  

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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.


Related Air Conditioning and Energy Saving Information from Horizon Services...

Summer is the time of year when most homeowners' electric bills hit the roof. Air conditioning is the primary culprit in causing summer electric bills to rise, but other appliances in your home also get heavy usage in the summer and can cause your electric bill to skyrocket. In honor of today being the first day of summer, here are 52 easy tips that you can do all summer long to keep your electric bill in check, stay cool and still enjoy the summer season to its fullest.

1. The ideal thermostat setting is between 75 and 78 degrees in the summertime. Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature when using your air conditioning. Moving the thermostat up just one degree could lower your electric bill as much as 3 to 5 percent.


2. Keep air conditioner filters clean. Aluminum mesh filters may be washed; fiberglass filters should be replaced, usually on a monthly basis.


3. Get an air conditioning tune-up. Your air conditioner will run more efficiently with a lower risk of breaking down.


4. Keep air vents and ducts clear of obstructions.


5. Use duct tape to seal cracks and leaks on any sections of air duct on your central air conditioning system.


6. Close the drapes on the sunny side of the house during the day.


7. Leave storm windows and doors in place when the air conditioner is running.


8. If you leave your home for vacation or extended period, leave your air conditioner off.


9. If you cool your home with window air conditioning units, place them on the north side of the house. Keep window air conditioner vents free from obstructions.


10. Keep lamps, TV sets and appliances away from your thermostat. Heat from these devices can cause your air conditioning system to run longer or unnecessarily.


11. When you turn on your air conditioner, do not set the thermostat at a lower than normal temperature. It will not cool the room any faster, but it will use more electricity.


12. Clean your outside condenser coil once a year by spraying with a hose at low pressure.


13. Plant shade trees and shrubs around your home to shield from sunlight and heat.


14. Apply reflective film on all south facing windows to reduce solar heating of your home's interior.


15. Use window or whole house fans to ventilate your home. Use ceiling fans to cool kitchens and other hot indoor rooms and to evenly distribute conditioned air.


16. Take brief, cool showers with minimal hot water. Showers use less water and energy than baths.


17. Install a low-flow shower head; it can reduce water usage by 50-70 percent.


18. Set your hot water heater thermostat to 120 degrees.


19. Insulate the pipes going into and out of the hot water heater tank. Add an insulated blanket around your water heater if it's an older model.


20. Turn the water heater off when you're gone longer than a weekend.


21. Run your dishwasher only when it's full.


22. Replace conventional light bulbs with Compact Fluorescent lLght (CFL) bulbs. This will save up to 75 percent in lighting energy, produce more light and last up to 10 times longer.


23. Use one large light bulb rather than several small ones. A 100-watt bulb produces more indoor light and uses less energy than two 60-watt bulbs.


24. Switch to tungsten-halogen incandescent bulbs; they cut lighting costs by about 15 percent.


25. Use low-watt bulbs where lighting is not critical.


26. Use dimmer switches in as many rooms as possible.


27. Dust your light bulbs. Dust on bulbs can reduce light output by up to 50%.


28. Place floor lamps and hanging lamps in corners. The reflection off the walls will give you more light.


29. Turn off all lights, TVs, stereos and radios if no one will be in the room.


30. Set your refrigerator temperature between 36 degrees and 40 degrees. Set freezer temperature between 0 degrees and 5 degrees. Use a refrigerator/freezer thermometer to check the settings.


31. Wash full loads of clothes in the coolest water possible. Rinse clothes in cold water.


32. Toss a dry towel into your dryer to absorb moisture from the load of moist clothes. Your dryer won't have to run as long.


33. Be sure to clean your dryer's lint filter after every load


34. Place full loads of clothing in the dryer, but don't overload.


35. Don't over-dry clothes. Stop running the dryer as soon as clothes are dry, or use the moisture sensor control to automatically shut ohe dryer off.


36. Dry multiple loads of clothing one right after another. The dryer is already heated so, you'll use less energy because the dryer is already heated.


37. Skip the dryer altogether. Hang your clothes on a clothes line to dry in the sun.


38. Let warm foods cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator.


39. Place the refrigerator away from the stove, dishwasher, heat vents and direct sunlight.


40. Keep refrigerator door closed as much as possible. Don't make unnecessary trips to the fridge.


41. Keep the freezer full. A full freezer loses less cold air when you open the door.


42. Defrost freezers when the frost builds up to 1/4" thick.


43. Vacuum dust and dirt from refrigerator coils so refrigerator runs more efficiently.


44. Try to cook several items in the oven at the same time.


45. Avoid pre-heating your oven whenever possible.


46. Use the microwave for items that need a quick cooking or reheating.


47. Use crockpots and slow cookers whenever possible.


48. Defrost foods before baking or microwaving; it will use 1/3 less energy than starting with frozen food.


49. If you're going to clean your oven, use the self-cleaning cycle right after you finish baking. That will give the self-cleaning cycle a head start in heating the oven.


50. Give your oven and stove a vacation. Barbecue or grill outdoors whenever possible.


51. Switch from a desktop to a laptop computer. Laptops use much less electricity and throw off much less heat.


52. Go outside! Take advantage of the warm weather and extended sunlight. Eat, read, talk and have fun outside as much as you can!

• Horizon Air Conditioning Services
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• Seasonal Energy Saving Tips

Save Energy with Insulated Drapes and Curtains!

In these tough economic times, we’re all looking for ways to tighten our budgets and save a little money. At home, one of the most effective ways to cut your energy costs is also one of the least expensive: insulated curtains.

Insulated curtains keep drafts out and cut down on heat exchange -- the process by which heated or cooled air leaves your home and warm or cold air comes in. This is the number one cause of energy loss in most homes. By reducing heat exchange, insulated curtains help keep the temperature inside your home constant without taxing your heating and air conditioning system. You’ll save on electricity usage and monthly utility costs.

There are various types of insulated curtains, each with a different degree of protection against warm or cool air loss. However, most include several layers meant to help regulate your home’s temperature. There’s an outer decorative layer to match the décor in your room, an inner lining, a layer of high-density foam that blocks sound and heat exchange, a reflective vapor barrier that prevents moisture build-up, and another reflective layer that holds air in the room. Many insulated curtains also have a magnetic strip sewn into the edge seams that help form a tighter seal around the window, adding another layer of protection against heat exchange.

There are many benefits to using insulated curtains.

In warm weather, keeping insulated curtains closed during the day blocks the sun’s heat. You’ll use less air conditioning because you’ll be letting less heat into the house. In winter, keeping the curtains open during the day will let in heat from the sun. Closing curtains at night traps that heat in your home, and you’ll be able to turn the thermostat down and use less heating. Both of these methods reduce the strain on your home’s heating and air conditioning system, saving significant energy and money.

Another benefit of insulated curtains is that they provide superior soundproofing for your home. Outside noises stay out, and inside noises stay in. Though they probably won’t prevent the neighbor’s blasting stereo noise from entering your home, for annoying ambient sounds like lawn mowers, barking dogs and loud passing vehicles they do make a great addition. You’ll find insulated curtains especially useful in bedrooms or kids’ rooms where a little extra quiet tends to come in very handy.

Insulated curtains come in a variety of patterns, fabrics, colors, thicknesses, and durability. They can be easily purchased at most home goods, discount or department stores or from online specialty shops. With so many options it’s easy to find a style that’s sure to suit your taste and room décor. Most can be hung from any standard curtain rod, though heavier curtains may call for a sturdier hanging device. Taking care of insulated curtains is no more difficult than caring for regular window treatments. Regular light vacuuming will keep them free of dust and looking like new. Tough stains wear may require occasional dry cleaning.

For significant energy savings without the substantial investment of replacing or upgrading your home’s heating and air conditioning system, give insulated curtains a try. You'll have it made in the shade!


Related Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Air Conditioning Services
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• Seasonal Energy Savings Tips
• Home Energy Myths Debunked
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• Green Your Home...Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

We all want to save money during these challenging economic times, and making green plumbing improvements is one of the best money-saving changes you can make. But in addition to saving you a lot of green in your wallet, green plumbing solutions around the home are some of the most effective and easy things you can do to reduce energy consumption, to improve your health and to help the environment.


Green Plumbing and Energy Reduction
When it comes to your energy bills, most people focus on their furnaces or air conditioners. But your plumbing system also has a big impact on how much energy you consume.

• Unprotected pipes, especially ones in exterior walls, are responsible for a huge amount of heat loss as water flows from your hot water tank to a faucet. Insulating pipes keeps more of this heat in, significantly cutting into your energy usage and saving you money on your utility bill.

• If you are considering a plumbing remodel, upgrade or new home construction, keeping pipes out of exterior walls altogether will eliminate unnecessary heat loss. Instead, run pipes through insulated and interior spaces where temperature is more regulated.

• Invest in an on-demand hot water pump. These devices send hot water to fixtures in seconds, eliminating costs that arise when hot water is left to sit unused in your pipes and reducing water usage overall.

• Hot water heaters constitute up to 15 percent of your home’s total energy usage. A new, energy-efficient water heater can cut a big chunk out of high utility bills.

Green Plumbing and Your Health
It’s true-—improving the efficiency of your home’s plumbing can have a positive impact on the health of everyone in your household.

• Request a copy of your town’s most recent water report or hire an independent tester to analyze your water. Before you can do anything, you need to know what kinds of substances may be in your water.

• Install a chlorine filter on your showerheads. Eliminating chlorine from your water can ease symptoms of chlorine sensitivity, which include dry skin, itchiness, flaking, rashes and tightness.

• Look into a whole house filtration system that will get rid of chemicals, heavy metals and micro organisms that may be present in the water you use for cooking, bathing, cleaning and drinking. A comprehensive filtration system will also prevent staining and corrosion caused by hard water, and will extend the life of appliances that use water.

• If you live in an area with particularly poor water quality, install an activated charcoal filter or reverse osmosis system. These water purifiers filter out contaminants and make water safer to use.

Green Plumbing and the Environment
Many of us are looking for ways to reduce our impact on the environment. Green plumbing solutions help you do just that. Coincidentally, many of these initiatives can save you money, too.

• Install low-flow fixtures, which can reduce your water consumption by about 60 percent.

• Low-flush toilets are also a great way to restrict unnecessary water usage, saving about 28 gallons of water per person every day.

• Purchase a leak monitoring device that will notify you of leaky faucets, pipes and toilets so you can have the problem taken care of before too much water is wasted.

• Faucet flow reducers are easy to install and can cut water usage by more than 40 percent.

• Replace old appliances with energy efficient models. Dishwashers and washing machines with an Energy Star rating can reduce water use by more than 50 percent.

• Energy-Efficient, Green Plumbing Services for the 21st Century and Today’s Economy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

• Peco Energy
• Delmarva Power

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The average American home spends about 20 percent of total household energy bills on running electronic devices and appliances; things like computers, refrigerators, washing machines and dryers, televisions, stereos, and dishwashers comprise the bulk of most home energy usage. Coincidentally, many of the most common—and most heavily used—household appliances are in the kitchen. The following tips will help you boost your kitchen’s energy efficiency, reduce your monthly utility bills, and trim down your family’s carbon footprint.

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"Going green" is an inescapable buzz-phrase these days, and we’re all looking for ways to reduce our impact on the environment. And in today's economic climate, "saving green" -- ie. cash -- is just as important. When it comes to energy usage and savings in your home, "waste not, want not" should be your mantra. Thus, it's imperative that you become aware of those items, areas and behaviors that are causing you to needlessly waste energy.

• PECO Energy Estimator Tools
• Delmarva Power Online Energy Audit Tool

Some of the most common recommendations that result from energy audits are really simple changes you can make almost immediately that can have a significant impact on your home’s energy consumption.

• Inspect lamps and light fixtures. Consider using traditional bulbs with lower wattage or switching to compact florescent bulbs. These last longer than regular light bulbs and can save more than 3% on your electric bill.


• Take a look at your heating and cooling equipment regularly. Look for problem areas, replace filters often, repair tears in ductwork right away, and have units professionally cleaned at least once a year. It’s also a good idea to thoroughly insulate pipes that pass exposed through unheated places.


• In older homes, inspect insulation levels in basements, attics and walls. Check for any signs of deterioration, animal activity, gapping, or moisture accumulation. Damaged or insufficient insulation can increase your energy usage and cost you money.

Horizon Can Help You With Your Energy Audit Needs!

Contact Horizon Services to schedule a FREE, no-obligation In-Home Energy Analysis and Consultation. An experienced Horizon Comfort Advisor will come to your home to discuss with you your energy-saving needs. He/she will inspect and measure your home, assess your current heating and air conditioning system (including ductwork) and review heating and cooling options that will use energy more efficiently and can save up to 35% off your utility bills!

• Schedule Your FREE In-Home Energy Analysis and Consultation Now!

Properly maintaining your home’s heating and cooling systems can improve energy efficiency, reduce your utility bills, and prevent the need for costly repairs. The best time to check your systems is in the spring and fall, before a heating and air conditioning contractors’ busy summer and winter seasons.

You can do many general maintenance checks yourself and then report potential problems to a trusted heating and air conditioning professional. It’s also a good idea to hire a professional to do a thorough inspection once or twice a year. A typical checklist should include:

• Reviewing your thermostat settings to make sure the temperature inside your home makes things comfortable when you’re there and saves energy when you’re not.


• Tightening electrical connections to make sure your appliances are running safely and to prolong the life of system components.


• Lubricating moving parts to reduce damaging friction and strain on your home’s electrical supply.


• Inspecting condensation drains if your home has central air, a furnace or a heat pump. Blocked drains can lead to water damage and mold infestation.


• Checking system controls to make sure everything is working properly. Be sure systems start, run and shut down as they should.


• Cleaning and changing air filters on your furnace, air conditioner and heat pump regularly. Dirty filters increase utility costs and can damage equipment. Most filter manufacturers have recommended replacement schedules clearly printed on product packaging.

If your home has central air conditioning or if you use portable window air conditioners, the following are some routine maintenance issues you should be aware of. (If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to consult a certified professional heating and air conditioning contractor such as Horizon Services):

• Clean the evaporator mechanism and condenser coils. Dirty coils will restrict the air conditioner’s effectiveness in cooling your home, making the system work overtime to compensate. This will cost you more on your utilities and can significantly shorten the life of your system.


• Check refrigerant levels and adjust fluids as necessary. The wrong amount of refrigerant chemicals circulating through a system can cause irreparable damage and will increase your energy usage.


• Have blower components cleaned and adjusted if needed. This ensures that the proper amount of air is flowing through the system at all times, which makes for more comfortable temperatures. Airflow restriction can decrease your energy efficiency by as much as 15 percent.

Heating systems require regular inspection and maintenance, too. No matter what kind of heat source you use, the following checklist can help your system work as effectively and efficiently as possible:

• Check all connections, especially if your heat is supplied by oil or natural gas. Loose or malfunctioning connections create a fire hazard and can lead to serious health risks like carbon monoxide poisoning.


• Make sure pilot burners and heat exchangers are functioning properly. Dirty, damaged or malfunctioning burners and exchangers can impede the operation of your system and may cause heating quipment to run less safely and less efficiently.
  

More Info About Heating and Air Conditioning Maintenance...

• Seasonal Energy Saving Tips
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• Horizon's Furnace Tune-Up

With so much media coverage of green initiatives these days, you may find yourself feeling guilty just flipping on a light switch in your home or turning on your heating or air conditioning system. For many people, "going green" is an overwhelming and intimidating prospect; but there is one simple thing we can all do to make a significant difference.

• Learn More About Energy-Efficient Heating and Air Conditoning Systems from Horizon Services!
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• Home Energy Myths Debunked!

Here’s one of the most common heating problems we see at Horizon Services: people who never or rarely change their furnace filters. Far too many homeowners underestimate the importance of regular filter replacement. Others are under the erroneous impression that all furnace filters are the same; sorry, folks…but that’s not the case.

Cold Hard Fact: Selecting the right filter for your furnace and replacing your filters according to a recommended maintenance schedule is the smartest thing you can do to keep your furnace working at peak efficiency, prevent furnace breakdowns and to guarantee that your furnace has a long and productive life.

Here are some important things you need to know about filters and your furnace:

Furnace filters work to remove dust and particles from the air that circulate around your home. When the filter is dirty or clogged with debris, the furnace has to work much harder to push warm air through the blower. This means higher energy costs and increased wear and tear on the furnace.

Clogged filters can also have a negative impact on the air quality inside your home. Dust and pollutants plugging your furnace’s filter are pushed out when air blows through it. This releases mold spores, pollen, dust mites, dander, bacteria and other invisible nasties into the air inside your home. You may notice increased sensitivity like burning, itchy eyes, coughing, sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing or more acute allergic reactions.

What’s more, since many Americans spend the majority of their time indoors—some of us as much as 90 percent—most of the air we breathe is recycled. Sealing doors and windows may help reduce energy costs and restrict the release of harmful chemicals into the environment, but it also sentences us to a life of breathing the same air over and over. None of the trapped air gets out, no fresh air gets in.

A dirty furnace filter can actually help contribute to chronic conditions like asthma and allergies, as well as increase frequency of illnesses like bronchitis and the flu.

One of the best ways to maintain a healthy home is to replace your furnace filter regularly. Once a month, inspect your furnace’s filter for dirt and dust. If it looks dirty, replace it—no matter when you changed it last. More dust can accumulate at certain times of the year, like in winter when the furnace is most often used, so you may need to change the filter more frequently during these seasons.

As for types of filters, there are several options to choose from:

• Standard furnace filters are made from fiberglass threads, cloth or open cell foam in a cardboard frame. They can be purchased at most home improvement stores for less than $5. Standard filters remove as much as 10 percent of the large dust particles in the air and should be changed monthly.
  


• Reusable or washable filters are more durable and more effective in removing particles from the air. However, they do require regular cleaning and the trapped debris can be difficult to remove.
  


• Pleated disposable filters have a larger capture area thanks to their folded structure. The filtering material is usually quite dense and because the surface area is bigger, these kinds of filters are more effective than other kinds—removing up to 40 percent of pollutants. They can cost as much as $10 but only need to be replaced a few times a year.
  


• High efficiency pleated filters are the top of the line. They use electrostatic charges to remove debris from the air, capturing about 30 times more allergens and small particles than standard filters. They can cost upwards of $25 but are so highly regarded that they have received the endorsement of the American and Canadian Lung Associations.
  

If you’ve got questions about furnace filters, contact Horizon Services. One of our experienced heating service technicians can help you select the right filter for your heating system and help design the optimal filter replacement schedule. He can also show you the proper way to remove and install a filter on your furnace so that you can become a true do-it-yourselfer!

• Learn More About Horizon's Heating Services!