Category Archives: Home Improvements

Is it Safe to Drink RO Water?

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Reverse osmosis is a water filtration technology that uses a semipermeable membrane to filter impurities from water. The technology was originally introduced to make seawater more drinkable and reduce heavy metals in water. Now, it’s commonly used for home water filtration systems.

Reverse osmosis systems are highly effective for filtration because they eliminate a wide spectrum of contaminants from water. They filter out contaminants like bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, fluorides, and hard minerals.

Reverse osmosis systems are great at what they do, but there’s a catch. The WHO says that the low mineral water produced by RO systems tends to negatively affect human health, especially after long-term consumption.

How is RO Water Harmful to Health

Since these reports, many homeowners who rely on reverse osmosis systems for clean drinking water have become concerned. People wonder if RO Water is really safe to drink and if it’s still a good investment. There are a lot of factors to consider before concluding on this.

Here we will discuss why RO water may be considered harmful. We’ll also weigh the pros against the cons to see if RO water is really worth it.

How is RO Water Harmful to Health?

Reverse osmosis removes a lot of impurities from water. Unfortunately, this includes a large percentage (90-99%) of beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium. Based on several studies conducted by the WHO, demineralized/low mineral water is harmful to health. And according to WHO reports, the effects of drinking demineralized RO water start to show very quickly.

In several weeks or a few months, people who drink demineralized water may notice symptoms that suggest acute magnesium or calcium deficiency. Other complaints like cardiovascular disorders, muscle cramps, tiredness, and weakness also surface. Intake of low mineral water has also been associated with a higher risk of fracture in children, pregnancy disorders, and certain neurodegenerative diseases.

Demineralized water causes malnutrition and leaches away existing minerals in the body (meaning that minerals gotten from food the person eats will be urinated away).

Even when used for cooking, RO water leaches away important minerals from food.

Is RO Water Still a Good Option?

Although RO systems produce demineralized water, they still have some benefits. Reverse osmosis systems are one of the most effective filters available. If you choose to ditch RO filters, you may have to deal with contaminants like lead, arsenic, chlorine, bacteria, and high amounts of total dissolved solids (TDS) that come with tap water. Compared to demineralized water, these contaminants could lead to a longer list of health problems.

Reverse osmosis filters are a lifesaver in places with poor water quality. They make the water potable and prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

Also, with a well-balanced diet, you’ll barely feel any effects of demineralized water. You can supplement some of the minerals missing from your drinking water with food. Ordinarily, water shouldn’t be your primary source of nutrients, so altering your diet to include more minerals and vitamins should sustain you.

But if you’re still worried about the demineralized water affecting your health, there are ways to go around it.

Some reverse osmosis filters have a remineralization stage where healthy minerals are added back into the water. Of course, the water will not contain the same amounts of minerals as regular water, but it’s better than having no minerals in the water at all. With some more minerals in your water, the adverse effects of RO water will reduce considerably.

Best Reverse Osmosis Filters

We listed mostly under sink filters since they are a more common type of RO filter. But if you prefer a RO filter with zero installation requirements, you can find at least 5 countertop RO filters that are just as effective.

We also tried to include filters with the remineralization feature since they are a better variety.

1. Home Master Artesian

Home Master is an under sink system with the remineralization feature. The filter adds beneficial minerals into the water at two different stages before finally dispensing it. It has easy-to-change filter cartridges and doesn’t come with a bulky filter housing. The system is also designed to reduce wastewater considerably.

2. iSpring RCC7AK

This filter is highly rated for its remineralization abilities. It works in 6 stages, with alkaline remineralization being the last stage. The alkaline filter needs to be changed twice a year, but the RO membrane can last up to 3 years before needing a change.

3. APEC Essence ROES-PH75

APEC essence also has a remineralization feature. It has a 6 stage filtration process, the last stage being an alkaline calcium filter which makes the water taste like bottled water. The filter is suitable for small cabinets. Its installation process is also simple and can be done without a plumber.

Reverse osmosis water may be deficient in a few minerals, but it’s still good to drink with the right precautions. If you have contaminants in your water, you should consider getting one. All that matters is that you take the necessary precautions to ensure that you don’t lack the nutrients you need to stay healthy.

4 Ways to Make Your Next Home Greener

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There is a huge spotlight on the construction industry when it comes to green initiatives – and rightly so. After all, this is one of the biggest contributors to all of the sustainable problems that the world faces. However, this increased focus does prompt some problems. It can make some people believe that going green in the home is out of the question – and is only going to be achieved through some really costly implementations.

Granted, there are some major infrastructure projects you can invest in if you are building a home, with solar power and ground source heat pumps tending to grab the headlines. At the same time, there are smaller wins – and these shouldn’t be underestimated, such as solid wood flooring. In fact, if everyone was to invest in these, we’d suggest that the typical carbon footprint across cities such as San Diego would drop substantially.

Taking this into account, let’s now take a look at some of the quick, green wins you can succeed with as you bid to make your next home greener and more sustainable.

1. It starts with the placement of your windows

As we work with our architect in the initial design phase of our project, many of us are more concerned about the size of our bedrooms and so on.

A common afterthought is the placement of windows. Sure, some people might think about this as they consider natural light implications – but it’s time to think bigger.

Let’s not forget that as well as allowing rooms to heat naturally, windows are something that lets warm air escape. It means that their position is crucial, and treating them as an afterthought is asking for a completely inefficient dwelling.

2. Never forget insulation

In some ways, we were almost tempted not to include this next point. After all, insulation is an old classic when it comes to energy efficiency. It is something that has been suggested for years, mainly because it is incredibly cheap to implement whilst also being very effective.

Of course, it’s always easier to install insulation during the early phases of a project. Try and remember to focus on the roof and walls; this is where most of your heat is lost and is where you can make the biggest difference.

3. It’s not just about energy; think water as well

A lot of today’s guide has looked at energy, and rightly so. We are also going to dip into a point about water consumption, though.

This is something that often gets forgotten about, but the benefits are substantial. A lot of older, traditional bathroom fittings are anything but efficient – they deliver water at a ridiculous rate, and ultimately waste it.

If you turn to modern-day solutions, you’ll find that you can save gallons every year. Suffice to say, this isn’t just going to benefit your environment, but your pocket as well.

4. Your roof is crucial

Finally, if there was just one area of your next home to concentrate on, your roof should be up there as a priority. Nowadays, there are all sorts of materials that can help your plight. For example, for those of you who reside in hot countries, you can turn to roofs with reflective paint to deal with the heat somewhat. Green roofs are another solution which are surging in popularity but in truth, the list could go on.

Recommended Green Resources:

How To Get Money For Your Home Improvement Project

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A home improvement project can be a cakewalk for you if you have access to reliable funding resources.  However, many people don’t have the money to pay for a home improvement project. This article will look at the top 10 ways to raise funds for your home improvement project. Keep reading for some useful information!

how to finance your home improvement project

1. Personal Savings

One way to get money for your home improvement project is to save up for it. Savings can take some time, but it’ll be totally worth it in the end.

2. Cash-Out Refinance

Converting the equity in your home into cash by taking a mortgage refinance loan and using that extra cash to finance your home improvement project is also a great strategy. This is what is known as cash-out refinance.

3. Government Financial Assistance

There are government programs that offer financial assistance for home improvement projects. For instance, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program provides low-income households with funds to make energy-efficient home improvements. To see if you qualify, visit the program’s website and enter your state of residence.

4. Non-financial Aid

Do you know someone who is handy with tools? You could ask them to help you with your project. Non-financial aid is one of the best alternatives to fund your home improvement project.

5. Financial Help from Friends and Relatives

Family and friends are a great option to help finance your home improvement project. Just be sure to sign a contract, so everyone is clear on the loan terms.

6. Sponsorships from Companies

Check if you qualify for sponsorships from companies selling products or services you would need for your project. For example, if you’re doing a kitchen remodel, you could contact companies that make appliances and countertops and see if they would be interested in sponsoring your project.

7. Home Equity Loans

Another way to finance your home improvement project is to take out a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). Home equity loans can be a good option if you have equity in your home and need a relatively large amount of money for your project.

how to save money on moving costs

8. Loans from Lending Institutions

You might not have much equity in your home, or you could be looking for a smaller loan. In that case, you could consider a personal loan from a lending institution like SoFi, LendingClub, or Prosper. Personal loans typically have shorter repayment periods than other types of loans, so they can be a good option if you need money for a smaller home improvement project. Of course, before you take out any loan, be sure to do your research and compare interest rates, fees, and terms from different lenders. This way, you’ll be sure to get the best deal possible on your loan.

9. Use of Credit Cards

Consider using credit cards as a source of funding for your home improvement project. Many cards offer 0% APR financing for a limited time, which can help you save on interest if you can pay off the balance before the end of the intro period. Just be sure to read the fine print and ensure you understand the card’s terms and conditions before applying. It’s essential always to remember to pay your bills right on time to avoid damaging your credit score.

10. Veterans Affairs

You may be eligible for a Veterans Affairs (VA) loan for your home improvement project if you’re a veteran. VA loans are available to eligible service members and veterans and can be used to finance up to 100% of the cost of eligible improvements. If you’d like to learn more about VA loans and the application process, visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website.

Conclusion

No matter how you choose to finance your home improvement project, always start first with the readily available funds. First, consider using your savings, then explore financial and non-financial help from your family and friends or leveraging your credit cards, sponsorships from companies, and government financial help, before you think of acquiring loans. Also, compare the rates and terms of loans from multiple lenders before moving forward with the loan.

Your project is sure to be 100 percent successful with strategic planning and execution.

Good luck!

The Impact of Smart Homes on Generations

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America is already feeling the impact of smart homes. A large industry based on this technology is forming. But, what is the effect of it on the different generations? Here you can find a brief discussion of the impact of smart homes on generations.

What is a Smart Home?

Smart homes consist of all the different smart products owned by the user. These products are interconnected. It makes use of the internet to connect to other products. This technical feature is called the Internet of Things (IoT).

There are all kinds of products. Every room or space in a home can be automated by smart home products. You can even install smart devices into your backyard like smart lawnmowers and irrigation systems.

Benefits for all generations

Smart home products are designed to benefit its users. The technology is developed for all generations. So there are benefits to its use that applies to everyone.

These benefits include:

  • An increase in comfort of the user’s lifestyle.
  • Increased life expectancy caused by the usage of these products (i.e. smart security products).

Impacts on different generations

Three larger generation groups have been defined for the purpose of this discussion. It’s been split into the retirees, the working force, and the youth.

Retirees

Smart home products can connect to all kinds of services and devices. Elderly people can enjoy minor medical check-ups from the comfort of their homes. Video calls and domestic smart medical equipment can supply all the information a doctor needs. Doctors can keep an eye on patients that are too far from their offices.

Retired people can make use of smart home technology to automate simple tasks. Grocery shopping and other basic services are accessible through these products. Retirees will enjoy the improved elderly care and greater access to basic services caused by smart homes. Stairlifts install will make life easier for the elderly.

The working force

Smart home products like smart thermostats have been known to save its users an average of 20% in yearly warming and cooling costs. According to a study conducted by SafeAtLast, 57% of American smart home owners save about 30 minutes per day. Automating your home will save you lots of time and effort in the process.

The working force who owns smart home products will be more productive. They will also have more cash on hand due to extra savings. Smart homes can help to create a wealthier economy by assisting the working force.

The youth

The youth of today is the promise for tomorrow. Smart home technology is indirectly designed to increase the life expectancy of its user. All these benefits will help to cultivate a better tomorrow. The youth who grow up with smart home technology will have an advantage over their lesser privileged youths. Though, the psychological effects of this technology (over the long term) is yet to be studied.

Conclusion

This technology wants to make your life better. It will benefit every generation. Give it a try to experience the benefits yourself. Read on to for interesting facts on smart homes.

3 Ways to Make the Most of Your AC Unit

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Without a doubt, one of the reasons why so many homeowners are hesitant about the use of their air conditioning unit is due to the potential spike in the utility bills. While it is understandable to want to save money on an AC unit, it makes no sense to have an AC and never use it. It can be challenging to be comfortable in a warmer climate without the help of air conditioning, but a rising utility bill should not deter you from using it when you want to.

That said, there are some ways to help ensure that you are making the most of the AC unit you have. While services such as Elite AC Repair Austin are there for the more severe issues that can pop up, here are a few methods to help you save money by treating your AC unit right.

1. How you handle the ventilation in your home can make all the difference

For example, there are plenty of houses with furniture that ends up blocking the vents, stopping air from effectively moving freely around the home. While it might not be such a big deal, when you are trying to utilize your AC unit to cool things down, it can result in an uneven experience. Before starting, it would be a good idea to check and ensure that the vents in your house are not blocked or clogged in any way.

2. Purposefully blocking ventilation can have its advantages

Once you are confident that everything is in order, there is still the question of which vents to block when the AC is on. After all, there are areas of the home that do not need to be cooled down – such as the basement. By blocking the ventilation in certain areas, you can cool other rooms much faster and save money at the same time.

3. Understand exactly when to have your AC serviced

There are plenty of situations where it seems like the best course of action would be to use a service such as eliteaustinac.com. That said, understanding which situations merit the intervention of a professional can save you plenty of money in the long run. For example, a leak might not be so bad, but it could end up leading to mold as time goes on, eventually turning into a health hazard for you and your family. Clean dirty HVAC air filters regularly to decrease HVAC energy consumption.

clogged-filter-AC

There is also the issue of odd smells, as well as the lack of cold air. If you want to save money, it would be a good idea to have your unit serviced by an expert as soon as possible.

Aside from the tips above, ensure that you keep the condenser clean by washing it with a garden hose every now and then. If you are curious about where to find quality AC units, Trane can help provide you with the best air conditioning units around. The tips above will help you save money while simultaneously giving your AC the treatment it deserves!

4 Attractive Beds with Storage Options

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If you have a job that keeps you on the move, then you should invest in compact furniture that is portable and easy to maintain. But even if you are staying somewhere on a permanent basis, it is a pretty good idea to invest in a bed with storage. It is very true that once you have owned a storage bed, you aren’t going to go back to the normal model anymore. Here are some attractive bed designs for you to discuss with your family members on your coffee table:

storage-bed

1. Lined Bed Frame

Upholstered beds are all the rage right now, which is why you should look into the gorgeous models that are available in furniture stores everywhere. These beds with storage have a strong and compact bed frame. At the same time, they also offer you plenty of space to store all of your sheets, pillows and belongings.

2. Velvet Bed Frame

If you are looking for something luxurious and regal, then you should go for the upholstered bed frame that is done in high quality velvet fabric. A bed like this is a very good investment, as you will be able to use it for many years. It’s easy to assemble and has lots of storage space. Make an eco-conscious statement by using bamboo sheets to cover the bed.

3. Trundle Bed Frame

If you are someone who frequently has friends or relatives over to visit and stay the night, then you should consider investing in a trundle bed frame. The best trundle bed options will provide you with plenty of space. It also folds up into a compact shape when not in use, which is ideal for Apartments for rent in Colorado Springs.

4. Bunk Bed Frame

Another space saving and multipurpose arrangement that you can use is a bunk bed frame, which is just great if you have multiple kids. Even if you have a very compact living arrangement, there are bunk beds where the top bed is a single and the lower bed is a double. It’s great for small families.

Benefits of Storage Beds

These are the bed designs that offer storage options to those who are dealing with the issue of inadequate storage space. Here are some benefits storage bed owners can enjoy.

1. Easy to Clean

One major advantage of a storage bed unit is the ease of cleaning and maintenance. There is no unwanted dust accumulation so you know that there is no extra cleaning that you have to keep doing.

2. More Storage Space

A storage bed is a really good idea if you have limited storage space. It will provide you with an inexpensive space that is actually very large. You can clean and declutter your home very well.

In today’s world, extra space is a luxury, and investing in a bed with storage from Interiorbeat allows you to take advantage of that luxury without breaking the bank. Whether or not space is limited in the bedroom, a bed with storage space proves to be both practical and stylish. With storage beds, people with allergies won’t have to worry about dust collecting inside their bedrooms.

3. Stability for Mattress

Another major advantage of a storage bed is the stability that it will give your bed and your mattress. You won’t have to worry about back pain any more as the frame will give ample support.

Another thing that many people don’t realize is that a storage bed has a very classy appearance that will lend a lot of character to your bedroom. A bed with storage can accentuate your bedroom’s overall aesthetic.

3 Ways To Improve Your Bathroom

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Both the first place we visit in the morning as well as the last stop before we go to bed, bathrooms are used as regularly, if not more so, than any other room in the house. So why don’t we dedicate the same amount of time and resources to making it as aesthetically and practically successful as, say, our kitchens? Besides helping you re-evaluate the importance of the bathroom within the home, we are here to help you enact some changes that will not only improve the appearance of your bathroom but its utility too.

bathroom improvement tips

 

2. Boost water pressure and flow with a shower pump

A shower is an almost inviolable component of the daily routine and ensuring that it works as efficiently and effectively as possible is imperative. There are a number of different ways this can be achieved. The one change you should be prioritising is the addition of a shower pump. Without sufficient water flow and water pressure, a shower fails to be enjoyable. A shower pump can remedy this.

The kind of shower pump you will need however depends on the positioning of the water tank in relation to the pump. Efficient negative head shower pumps have the ability to act against gravity and will work regardless of their relative position to the accompanying water tank while positive head shower pumps will only work when positioned above or equal to the water tank.

Similarly, you need to determine whether your home is better served by a single or twin impeller pump – the difference being that twin impeller pumps are more adept at propelling water from far apart cold water and hot water tanks.

2. Ventilate your bathroom and ward off threat of damp

Bathrooms are invariably seen as somewhat of an afterthought when it comes to allocating space within a home. Often, but not always, cramped and confined, small bathrooms do little to hamper the presence of moisture in the air that will eventually condense to form water droplets on the cooler tiled or even wallpapered walls which can lead to host of damp problems.

The best way to impede the appearance and advance of damp is to properly ventilate your bathroom. Outside of taking a hammer to the walls to create a custom-made window, your options are relatively limited. The most inexpensive and practical solution is to install an extractor fan or purchase a dehumidifier. Either will help to remove excess moisture – preventing the development of damp and mold in the process. If your bathroom is facing mold infestation, make use of eco-friendly mold removal techniques.

3. Lighten up your bathroom

A complete bathroom décor overhaul can be expensive and time-consuming. Sometimes small alterations can be just as transformative. Electing to lighten up the room is one such example.

Going for lighter hues and tones throughout your bathroom creates the illusion of space, leading to a more spacious and airier-feeling room. This modification doesn’t necessarily require a top-to-bottom repainting; putting up posters, investing in a new and expansive mirror, and altering existing cabinets with fresh exteriors can elicit the same kind of response.

Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency While Adding Value

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You’ve spent the past year furnishing your home, selecting hand-crafted decor, and mixing and matching perfectly balanced wall colors. Everything appears perfect. But your utility bills tell a different story about your home. Your heating bill is through the roof and your electric bill never seems to come down no matter how good a job you do of turning off lights in rooms that aren’t occupied. Sound familiar? If it does, you’re not alone.

Of the $2,000 the average American spends paying for energy each year, $200 to $400 could be going to waste from drafts, air leaks, and outdated heating and cooling systems. If you are interested in reducing energy waste you should begin with a home energy evaluation. Also known as an energy audit, an energy evaluation will assess the way that your home consumes energy and identify what measures you can take to improve energy efficiency. From there, you will be able to choose which upgrades you would like to make.

how to improve the energy efficiency of your home

Upgrade Your Windows

The number one way to add value to your home while increasing the energy efficiency of your home is to upgrade your windows to double-pane Energy Star-rated windows. If you are going to make one feature of your home energy efficient you should prioritize your windows according to over 60% of real estate agents.

New energy-efficient windows help maintain a consistent temperature inside your home year-round. This alone can reduce your energy bills by as much as 15%. When it is time for you to sell your home, new Energy Star-rated windows will help you sell your home for a great price. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 89% of home buyers classified Energy Star windows as either an essential or desirable feature. A bonus that comes with installing Energy Star windows is the visual appeal that new windows add to both the interior and exterior of your home.

Insulate the Attic

Most homes have a layer of insulation in the attic, however, over time more insulation may need to be added. Heat loss through the attic is around 25% for most houses. Reducing that heat loss can save you money and create a less drafty home. To save approximately 15% on heating and cooling costs you can add spray foam insulation to your attic. A relatively affordable improvement that costs around $1,000 to $3,600 spray foam insulation recoups the majority of project costs with an average return on investment of 117%.

Upgrade to Energy Star Appliances

Outdated appliances that are over ten years old use up to 40% more energy than newer energy-efficient models. If you plan to upgrade your appliances you can begin in the kitchen. Appliance upgrades that are the most popular are refrigerators, dishwashers, stove/ovens, and microwaves. When you are looking for appliances choose ones that are stainless steel. According to 75% of real estate agents, stainless steel is the most popular finish among home buyers.

Add Solar Panels

When solar panels first became available to homeowners they were extremely expensive. Now, over a decade later the prices of solar panels have fallen by about 70%. On average, solar panels for residential homes cost between $15,000 and $25,000. Though the initial price tag of solar panels is high, so is their addition to your home’s value.

solar-leasing

For every $1 reduction in your annual energy cost, your home’s value increases by $20. So not only are you saving on your energy bills you are increasing your home’s value. Solar panel purchases are different in every area and so are the rebates and tax credits that may be available to you.

Upgrade Your Heating and Cooling Unit

In general, 43% of your home’s utility bill goes to heating and cooling. Keep your HVAC working efficiently by properly maintaining the unit and upgrading to a new one when it is time. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 15 to 20 years. As HVAC ages, especially in the last five to ten years of its life, the system becomes less energy efficient. An older HVAC system will require more maintenance and will need repairs for parts of the system that are no longer functional.

air conditioner benefits

While installing an entirely new HVAC system will take extra money, it will benefit you when you are in your home and when you sell your home. A new HVAC unit with appropriate insulation can cut your energy use for heating and cooling by 20%. Houses with a new HVAC system have a home value increase of approximately 5-10% of the total value of the home.

Invest in a Smart Thermostat

A basic home thermostat will read and adjust the output of heat or cooling to match your desired temperature. If your thermostat is old or malfunctioning it may not read the temperature of your room correctly and wreak havoc on your heating and cooling costs. You can purchase and have a new thermostat installed or you can invest in a smart thermostat. Going a step beyond simply turning on and off your heating and cooling, a smart thermostat comes with remote sensors that are placed in different rooms around your house. These will ensure that your home can stay at a consistent temperature throughout your entire house.

Advanced smart thermostats will monitor your heating and cooling preference and after one week automatically set up a schedule to meet all your personalized needs. A smart thermostat will save homeowners anywhere from 8%-12% annually on their heating and cooling bills. They are also very popular among young homebuyers who are always interested in adding smart technology to their home.

Bottom Line

Small changes to your home can have a big impact on your energy consumption and your home’s overall value. Take the time to speak to a local real estate agent who can point you toward the best home improvements that will save you money on your monthly bills and add money to your home’s value.

Save Energy and Money – With a Heat Pump Water Heater

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With the high cost of living today, everyone’s looking for a way to save money and if they can also save energy in the process and help the environment, even better. Installing a heat pump hot water heater is one way to do both at the same time. Here’s how:

benefits of heat pump water heater

What are Heat Pump Water Heaters?

Before you can understand how heat pump water heaters save money and energy, you need to know how they work and what makes them different from other types of water heaters.

Typical water heaters work by generating their own heat through electricity, which means they have to expend energy creating the heat that is then transferred to the water. Conversely, a heat pump water heater uses electricity to move heat from one place to another. Since it doesn’t have to create the heat, it’s up to three times more efficient than a traditional water heater.

A heat pump water heater draws in heat from the air around it, heats it to a higher temperature, and transfers it to the water in the storage tank. Heat pump water heaters come in various models, including standalone units, integrated units that include a storage tank, and retrofit units that can be added to a traditional storage water heater.

Saving Energy, Saving Money

The way in which heat pump water heaters save homeowners money is simple: they require less electricity to operate than traditional models. When you use less electricity, you spend less money on your energy bills. With a unit that is up to three times as efficient as a traditional electric water heater, you can save some serious cash each year.

Of course, this benefits the environment as well. When you use less electricity, you effectively reduce the demand for fossil fuels, which are a finite resource. While it might not seem like you’re doing a lot to help the environment just by changing the type of water heater you use, you are actually making a big difference. The more homeowners who make this switch, the better off the surrounding environment will be.

Climate Matters — Somewhat

Homeowners should be aware that heat pump hot water heaters don’t work as well in all climates. The year-round temperature should be between 40°F and 90°F so the pump has heat in the air that it can transfer to the water. In cold climates that dip below 40°F at least part of the year, heat pumps will not do a great job of heating the water.

In fact, by installing a heat pump in a space that has excess heat, such as in a furnace room or a stuffy attic, will increase its efficiency, since it has more heat to work with from the start. This doesn’t mean you can’t install a heat pump in a cooler climate because they will still work. They just won’t be as efficient as they are in a hot environment.

Conclusion

The next time you find yourself in the market for a new hot water heater, give a heat pump model a shot. You’ll be pleased with the savings you gain, both in money and in energy

The Function of Central Heating Radiators

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Regular furnace tune-ups and maintenance just before the cold weather will help maintain your furnace and your HVAC system at top condition during the winter months. There are some common tips you can follow that will help ensure your furnace runs at peak efficiency through the long cold winter months:

heating-radiator

Help ensure your furnace runs

It is suggested that all of your HVAC equipment be cleaned and maintained before winter arrives. Beginning in early fall, have all of your cooling and heating equipment checked over thoroughly. Have a professional come out and check the furnace’s blower and ducts as well. In addition to ensuring that these are running smoothly, this will also help to prevent an increase in your home’s utility bills. If there is a problem in any of these components, you’ll need to replace them before winter fully sets in.

Finally, once your furnace has been turned back on, you’ll need to check your heat exchanger and duct for leaks. If the duct is leaking, then you may need to call a professional to take care of the leak or replace it with new ductwork. If your heater is not properly vented, then there’s a good chance that mold is growing behind the burner or behind the ductwork. You may actually be causing a foul smell from your furnace. Instead of calling a furnace service technician to come out and make you a furnace filter replacement, why not do it yourself?

First, get a flashlight and inspect your furnace’s ducts for blockages or clogs. A regular flashlight with disinfectant should work just fine. Take note of any spots that seem unusual where the air flows through. The spot could be a filter or the blower, depending on which system the furnace uses. If you see any areas with a thick black stain or smell, that’s a good indicator to clean or change the filter.

Getting furnace repairs

Once the furnace is checked and cleaned, you should conduct furnace service at least once a year. If you think you can’t do it yourself, call a reputable company in your area to get the job done. The costs for getting furnace repairs will vary depending on the make and model of your furnace and even the age of it. If you have an older model, you will probably spend more money than if you have a newer one. There are different ways to save on furnace service costs, so make sure to ask a professional about any suggestions you might have.

Remember that the experts say it is important to have regular maintenance on your furnace. However, this is not something you should take for granted. It is important to remember that the malfunctioning of your furnace could be due to the fact that there is a dirty duct where the oil or air gap gets filled up and causes the furnace to work hard to push out the air. In this case, hiring the services of a skilled and experienced furnace repairman in Calgary is essential so you don’t have to worry too much about the furnace’s condition.

If the problem with the burner is due to the presence of mold and mildew on the exterior portion of the heat exchanger, you can safely clean it yourself using a disinfectant spray made of chlorine and water. The spray must be used carefully so as not to damage the internal components of the heat exchanger and the burner. You should wear protective gloves so that you don’t spray the chemicals directly into the eyes. You can spray the area in a circular motion to avoid leaving streaks. This may also help in keeping the lining of the heat exchanger clear and free from dust, which is a common cause of friction.

Cleaning of heat exchangers by furnace service technicians is often recommended by manufacturers as an additional measure to prevent loss of refrigerant gas and to keep temperatures constant. A clean line allows for easier access when maintenance is necessary and prevents potential damage to the heating system itself. The cleaning process can take place during the summer, at night, or on days when there is little else that should be done.

Central heating radiators are available in a wide variety of styles to match any decor and to meet any budget. Whether a radiator is new or old, its function should be the first thing to be considered before buying. The more that the space heated by the radiator is heated by electricity, the more efficient the unit will be. Radiators will also heat the entire room, which could be a major plus depending on your budget.