By Joel Wensley Having an old furnace conk out on you in the middle of the winter isn’t any fun at all. Aside from being cold, your pipes could freeze, and that can lead to a whole other set of problems. This week, I’ll share how to be prepared, save money and make that old furnace last a few years more. The process I’m referring to is called a furnace reconditioning. This is designed to help restore older furnaces to like-new operating condition. During a regular furnace cleaning process, you may find a technician with a … [Read more...] about Now’s the time to make your old furnace like new and save money
Mechanical H-C
Talking to your thermostat reveals ways to save money
I’m trying to adjust a thermostat without my glasses to prove a point … Well, not really, but today I would like to tell you about what I think is a GREAT product for those who are seeing impaired or just need a little help when it comes to today’s modern technology. What I’m referring to is a talking thermostat. Not only does it announce the temperature when you press the adjustment buttons, it also verbally walks you through how to program it so that you can lower your temperature at night and save money all winter long this … [Read more...] about Talking to your thermostat reveals ways to save money
Mastering ins and outs helps disposal to go with the flow
Garbage disposals are handy for getting rid of food waste. But do you know what types of food to avoid putting into a disposal? How about mak-ing it smell better? This week, “How To” expert Jeff Lee offers some insight on the ins and outs of the garbage disposal. While they’re great for get-ting rid of unwanted kitch-en refuse, there are some things that shouldn’t be ground up, and certain ways you’ll want to operate your disposal for the best trouble-free operation. First off, before throw-ing anything into the dis-posal, … [Read more...] about Mastering ins and outs helps disposal to go with the flow
State of Michigan offers rebates for saving energy
Michigan Energy Options has been awarded a grant from the state of Michigan to provide appliance rebates for natural gas furnaces, propane furnaces, heating oil furnaces, natural gas water heaters, propane water heaters, solar water heaters and electronically controlled motors / variable -speed blower motors. This program is available for units installed after July 31 and will run through Dec. 31 or until rebate funds have been exhausted. These rebates, along with the federal tax credits, mean that you could be saving in excess … [Read more...] about State of Michigan offers rebates for saving energy
Whole-house dehumidifier a cool idea in summer heat
You’ve heard it a million times before: It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity. Excess humidity can have a big impact on your home’s comfort and the health of your family. We all know that excessive moisture can be a bad thing, causing mold growth, breathing problems and even damage to the windows and wood in our homes. But other than running a single-room de-humidifier, what can be done? Your healthy solution is a whole-house dehumidifier. You heard right. This unit actually removes excessive humidity not just from one … [Read more...] about Whole-house dehumidifier a cool idea in summer heat
Innovation aids in preventing air conditioning theft
With copper and aluminum prices at an all-time high, it’s no wonder we’re seeing a rash of stolen air conditioning units around our communities … even the best of neighborhoods. In less than two minutes time, thieves can literally remove an entire air conditioning unit or “de-bone” a unit. Depending on whether or not you have home insurance, the deductable is usually enough to keep many people from even being able to get a replacement unit. What a shame. Recently, I came across what appears to be the answer to an ever growing … [Read more...] about Innovation aids in preventing air conditioning theft
Know how to detect and handle a natural gas leak
The gas we use to cook with, heat our homes and even warm our water is nothing to be afraid of. But it is necessary to be aware of the dangers it can present if there’s a leak, or if the piping that carries the gas is worn or damaged. Here are some danger signs to watch for that indicate you may have a natural or propane gas leak. • If you smell a rotten-egg- or sulfur-type smell coming from inside or outside your home. • A blowing or hissing sound that may be coming from a busted or damaged pipe. • Dirt or dust … [Read more...] about Know how to detect and handle a natural gas leak
System can forestall costly damage from high water
Water damage not only can be extremely costly, but it can also have devastating effects, leaving a trail of mold and bacteria in your home. Cleanup and repair can easily run into thousands of dollars. Here’s a great product to help keep you informed in case of just such an emergency. It’s called a high water warning system. Now there’s more to this than one might think. At first glance, you’d think that if this unit senses water, it lets out an ear-piercing alarm, right? Well … right. But did you know it can also call you on … [Read more...] about System can forestall costly damage from high water
Great indoors: Air cleaners can purify and kill viruses
Is the air in your home making you sick? It’s been said that indoor air can be up to 12 times more polluted than outdoor air, and since that’s where we are most of the time, well, you get the picture. But don’t worry, we can fix that. Today, I’m going to show you how to clean up the air in your entire home — and not just one room at a time. One of the newest advancements for air purification is the twopart air purifier and cleaner. It has a replaceable filter that you only change once a year, but it’s also electronic. But … [Read more...] about Great indoors: Air cleaners can purify and kill viruses
Regular maintenance saves money, wear and tear on refrigerator
Today we’re going to share a few tips on maintaining your refrigerator for longer life and a more efficient operation. Considering that it’s is running 24 hours a day, a refrigerator has the potential to waste a lot of energy if not properly maintained. We’ll start at the door by checking the seals and the gaskets. Found on the refrigerator and freezer doors, gaskets are designed to seal in cool air and to keep out warm air, which is vital to the efficiency of your fridge. So it’s important to make sure that the seals are clean … [Read more...] about Regular maintenance saves money, wear and tear on refrigerator