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Magazine: Ask the Experts » HVAC / Heating / Plumbing / Energy Efficiency
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As a first-time homeowner, I freely admit that
I know little, VERY little about homeownership
and the various household responsibilities
that go along with it. For instance, I know
absolutely nothing about plumbing let alone
heating, cooling and the other mechanical
stuff that can go on the fritz . I don't even
know what I don't know. Do you have any
words of wisdom to share?
Answer provided by: Joe Ranck,
Partner,
Robert H. Ranck
Plumbing, Heating &
Air Conditioning
After 35 years in the plumbing and HVAC
service business I guess it's about time for
me to divulge some of our insider closely
held secrets with all of you.
1. Lancaster County is blessed with an
abundance of superior plumbing and HVAC
service businesses who deliver exceptional
customer service. It takes a lot of effort for
any company to remain in the top tier and
that competition benefits you the consumer.
Websites, Facebook, and Twitter are great
but talking with your neighbor or a friend
is still the best way to choose a company
to work in your home on your mechanical
systems.
2. Anode Rods. Although you may not have
ever heard of an anode rod it is the "sacrificial
lamb" that prevents your water heater
from leaking. Having it checked every 2–3 years and replaced as needed can double the life of your
water heater. Water heater manufacturers don't spend a lot
of marketing dollars promoting the lowly anode rod as they
depend on leaking water heaters to stay in business.
3. Yearly Maintenance. Having a professional thoroughly
check your heating and cooling system on an annual basis
can lengthen the life of your system, lower your energy bills,
and prevent costly repairs. Although our business has grown
over the years the emergency service calls have drastically
decreased among customers who maintain their equipment.
A small investment can result in huge savings, added comfort,
and peace of mind over the years. A yearly check up for
your plumbing systems can also yield big savings.
4. Low Flush/Comfort Height Toilets. Low flush toilets finally
flush better than the older ones and use less than half the
water. "Going Green" at its best. Low flush/Comfort height
toilets are 2" higher for greater comfort and are the only way
to go when replacing your existing toilet.
5. Indoor Air Quality. If your house is not the healthiest place
to live because of high humidity, mold, dust mites, dust, or
dry air in the winter, there are many solutions available. Lancaster
County is one of the worst places to live with allergies.
There are various solutions to make your life healthier and
less stressful.
6. Dry and Itchy Skin. The hard water that is so prevalent in
our area may be the cause of the problem. A water softener
that removes the calcium in the water will curtail the itching.
7. Preseason Deals. February through mid May is a SLOW
time in the HVAC service business. If you have the foresight
to get your work done during this time period, you can save a
lot of money. Our goal during this time period is just to keep
our employees working. We have even been known to beg
on occasion. We can skimp on price to get work because we
know that profit will come later when the weather gets hot.
For more information, please don't hesitate to give us a call
at 717.397.2577.
In closing, a BIG THANK YOU to our wonderful customer base
in Lancaster County who are for the most part (98%) fair,
appreciative, and loyal.
My husband and I are planning to replace our boiler and
would like to know if a high efficiency gas boiler would
be a good investment?
Answer provided by: Harry Whittaker,
Heating Department
Manager,
HAJOCA Corporation
 Absolutely. With rising fuel costs and the availability of condensing, high
efficiency gas products, the installation of a Burnham Alpine 95% gas
boiler is a VERY wise choice.
Unlike boilers that have been around for more than 100 years, the new
condensing technology that uses modulating firing can now match the
load requirement based on outdoor air temperature. In the past, a typical
cast iron boiler would come up to the temperature of the high limit control,
which in most cases would be 180 degrees. A waste of fuel and energy to
satisfy the thermostat setting on days when the temperature outside isn't
that cold. Today with modulating step firing, the boiler can now fire in five
stages, using less fuel to satisfy the thermostat.
For instance, a boiler with a 100,000 btu capacity would fire in 20,000 btu
increments, based on the outdoor air temp. For example, on a 40-degree
day, it may only fire at 20,000 btu's to provide a lower water temperature
to satisfy the thermostat. As the temperature drops outside, the water
temperature is increased inside, therefore maximizing the efficiency of the
boiler. This technology is the latest in gas boilers and is proven to reduce
fuel consumption. One thing to keep in mind is the importance of annual
service. This not only keeps the equipment operating at its highest efficiency,
but will also extend the life of the product. In most cases, this is
overlooked and becomes a problem in time with lower efficiency and possibly,
product failure.
In addition to providing heat at a high rate of efficiency, you can also
include an indirect water heater such as the Burnham Alliance to maximize
efficiency of your domestic water. These indirect tanks provide abundant
water that's stored in an insulated tank that holds the hot water temperature
for a very long time. Most sizes will only lose Y, degree in temperature
per hour, using less fuel to produce your domestic water. In addition, these
tanks come with a ten-year warranty as standard, and Burnham offers an
extended "lifetime" warranty to the homeowner for an additional $100.
Peace of mind for very little additional cost.
Hot water heating with a boiler is very flexible. You can heat multiple areas,
at different temperatures. You could use it for producing domestic water,
radiant heating, and snow melting. If you were having problems heating an
area in your home, such as the kitchen, radiant heat would be a very good
option. If you have access to the floor joists below, you could add radiant
tubing in the joist bay, and circulate hot water through the tubing, warming
the floors above. A great option, especially if you have hard wood or tile
floors.
Whatever you decide on, keep in mind that you'll be supporting a local
company by choosing Burnham. A company with a long history of producing
high quality reliable products. Visit their website@www.burnham.com.
You can also find a listing there for local contractors in your area.
With fall upon us and the
cold wintery days not far
behind, I am dreading the
thought of my upcoming
heating bills. What alternative,
energy-efficient heating
sources are available?
Answer provided by: Sam Jay Stoltzfus,
Owner,
LanChester Grill &
Hearth, LLC
 This is a timely question—one that
we hear often this time of year. The
fact is, there are several alternatives
that would help cut your home
heating expense while adding a
cozy feel to your home. Here are
some things to consider.
Can a gas stove or fireplace lower
my heating cost? Today's gas
stoves and fireplaces are easy to
use, appealing to the eyes and can
help lower your energy bills as much
as 25% and are controlled with
either a wall switch or remote. The
Mantis by Empire Comfort Systems
is an outstanding 93% efficient and
uses pvc pipe for the exhaust! Our
Mendota line of gas fire places with
the Burn Green System is the most
realistic and beautiful flame on the
market today and all exceed 86%
efficiency! Our Avalon fireplace with
the Green Smart remote system
come in right with the leading
brands with efficiency ratings up to
86% and many beautiful and unique
styles to choose from. Most of these
gas fireplaces do not require electricity
to operate and will operate
even in power outages.
Why would I choose a pellet stove? If you are looking for an alternative
source of heat without the hassle
of cutting wood, hauling it into the
house, and needing a full fledged
chimney which limits where you
can install it, then a pellet stove
may be the perfect solution for you.
Wood pellets are made from left
over wood scraps from manufacturing
plants and certain fast growing
trees making them a 100% Green
Product! *Minimal storage space
needed (packed in 40lb bags or
available in bulk) * easy to use
control panel and some even have
an automatic thermostat. * Even
available in a window unit just like
your air conditioner! Stop in and see
it!) With efficiency ratings as high as
85% you may be able to slash your
heating bill in half!
When is a wood stove the right
choice? If you are looking for financial
freedom in heating your home
at a fraction of the cost of oil, gas,
or electric, a wood stove may be the
answer for you. Beyond their cozy
romantic glow and homey crackle,
today's wood stoves produce low
cost heat, burn clean and efficient,
producing minimal ash and smoke.
Today's wood stoves are becoming
increasingly more efficient and
easier to use. Vermont Castings
has a wood stove with an 86% efficiency
rating . In the near future
we expect ratings over 90% and
even having an electronic ignition
system. Stay Tuned! Remember:
when you choose the most efficient
stove available, sized correctly for
your home, it will pay for itself many
times over and provide years of
enjoyment and satisfaction.
For more information, please don't
hesitate to give us a call. Better yet,
come visit us and browse through
our showroom for a first hand look
at the numerous (and beautiful)
options.
We just moved into a new house and I'm
noticing white spots on my dishes when they
come out of the dishwasher, what's a treatment
to fix this home ailment?
Answer provided by: John Michel, President, Haller Enterprises, Inc.
 Spotty dishes, low lather and buildup around plumbing
fixtures are typical symptoms of hard water. Hard water is a
common malady in many homes in the Central Pennsylvania
area, however there is an easy remedy—a new water treatment
system. Whether you have municipally treated water or
well water, the first thing you'll want to do is get your water
tested. There are many places in the area that can test your
home's water for pH levels, iron, total dissolved solids and
hardness. The test results will help determine what sort of
treatment will work best in your home.
Because of the minerals found in Central PA, one solution for
many issues is water softening. Water softening counteracts
the hardness in water to prevent a build-up of lime scale.
Not only does hard water make lathering up in the shower
difficult, it also has a tendency to build up around plumbing
fixtures and create hard water stains in your toilet, sinks and
bathtub. Water softening equipment can eliminate the white
build-up on fixtures, prevent hard water stains and soap
scum, as well as extend the life of appliances and your water
heater. In fact, softened water is 20-40% more efficient to
heat, making it one more way to save money through energy
efficiency.
If the taste of your water bothers you, one solution is a
Reverse Osmosis (RO) water system. An RO system provides
fresh, clean and better tasting water by reducing minerals
and contaminants found in tap water. This system works by
forcing water molecules through a semi-permanent membrane,
where the contaminants are rinsed down the drain.
Following this process the refined water is then routed to a
special holding tank. An RO water system is one of the more
convenient and economical methods of purifying water.
Bacteria and microorganisms can be another concern, especially
in well water. An independent laboratory can perform a
test for these organisms, and if they are found, an Ultraviolet
Water Purifier can be installed. This piece of equipment helps eliminate harmful bacteria and organisms in your
water, providing you with better tasting, healthy water. UV
Energy destroys many forms of potentially harmful bacteria
and viruses, such as E. coli, cholera, mold, algae and polio.
By using a UV Purifier you will enjoy water free of toxins and
viruses, leaving your water fresh every time you take a drink.
These are simple steps to ensure that the water you are
drinking is safe and free of harmful bacteria. You and your
family will be enjoying better tasting water in your new home.
You will also notice that you are using less soap, because it's
easier to create lather in the shower and your glassware will
look new each time you take them out of the dishwasher.
Contact Haller Enterprises today to find out what water
conditioning product is ideal for your home to help eliminate
hardness and enjoy refreshing water right from the tap.
Haller Enterprises — One Call... Handles It All! 717.625.1500
or online at www.HallerEnterprises.com.
Help! I want my home to be more energy efficient heading into winter,
particularly after a summer of high cooling bills. When it comes to high efficiency heating and cooling, where do I start?
Answer provided by: Brent Hess, Sales & Marketing
Manager, Groff's Home Comfort Team
 When
approaching energy savings, addressing heating and cooling costs
is the natural
first consideration. When you look at how much homeowners spend on energy
bills each year (on average, around $2,200), nearly half the expense goes toward
maintaining a comfortable, temperate environment.
The first step in creating your energy plan is conducting a home inspection of
your own. Identify rooms that simply aren't comfortable and track your own habits. For
example, are you constantly adjusting the thermostat? Programmable thermostats
can provide significant energy savings by lowering the setting overnight or during
the day while you're at work.
In addition, understanding heating and cooling lingo empowers homeowners when
it comes to making decisions on upgrading or replacing existing systems:
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient a
cooling unit will be during a typical season. Residential air conditioners currently being manufactured
must have a SEER rating of at least 13, but to qualify for Federal Tax Credit must be 16 SEER.
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio): Measure of how efficiently a cooling system will operate at peak day
operations (95°F). To qualify for tax credits, an AC system needs an EER rating of 13. Heat pumps
must have an EER rating of 12.5. Both SEER and EER are important when choosing a product.
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): Rating used for heat pumps. Again, the higher the
HSPF number, the greater the efficiency and energy savings during a season. While models must
have an HSPF of at least 6.8, an 8.5 is required to qualify for Federal Tax Credits.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): This percentage/measurement identifies how much fuel
is being used to heat your home, and ultimately, how much is being wasted in the effort. While the
minimum industry standard requires an AFUE of at least 78%, to qualify for Federal Tax Credit gas
furnaces must be 95%, while oil furnaces and gas and oil boilers must be at least 90%.
Why do these ratings matter? If you have an older furnace, for instance, you may be running below
the AFUE industry standard of 78%. Upgrading your system to at least meet the new standard will
improve your savings. Updating to an even higher efficiency system (95%) will increase your savings
even more.
Armed with a better understanding of your own home, as well as improvements necessary, it's time
to seek out a reputable, licensed HVAC contractor, who has a good understanding of your community
and will work with you to develop the right plan for improving your home's energy efficiency. They
will provide advice on how to maximize what works and will recommend upgrades that will keep you
comfortable, no matter the season.
Any investment requires some ongoing maintenance, not only to keep it in good working order,
but also to encourage a longer life and greater efficiency. Something as simple as a dirty air filter,
regardless of your SEER rating, will affect performance. Ignored for too long, dirt may build up and
lead to the need for a more costly intervention. Best practices are to maintain a relationship with
your HVAC contractor. Also, consider an annual service and maintenance contract, which covers the
twice-yearly recommended service checks while offering additional benefits and discounts on future
calls and parts.
Finally, the cost. While the initial investment
may be more expensive than
typical models or systems, the savings
in reduced energy bills and long-term
performance make up the difference.
Ultimately, the EPA suggests that
through a combination of the right systems,
proper installation and regular
maintenance, homeowners can expect
to cut their energy bills from 20% to
50%. Also, talk with your HVAC contractor
about potential tax credits (which
are currently set to expire December
31, 2010), as well as possible manufacturer
and utility rebates.
For more than 20 years, Groff's has
been helping families in Lancaster,
Chester and York counties live better
with high efficiency heating and cooling,
plumbing, and electric service and
repair, along with bathroom remodeling.
Call 717-464-9446 or visit www.
groffs.com for more information.
I am planning to replace my
water heater with a more
efficient model, but we have
an all-electric home. I've
been hearing a lot about Heat
Pump Water Heaters. What
are they and will they help
me save money on my electric
bill?
Answer provided by: John Michel, Vice President - Service/Remodel, Haller Enterprises, Inc.
 It's a great idea to consider efficiency
levels when replacing your home's
mechanical systems. According to
www.energystar.gov, water heating
can account for a whopping 14-25%
of the energy consumed in your home.
The water heater market has been
known over the last several years
for improving efficiencies in gas and
propane models. Many homeowners
have been reaping the benefits with
lower utility bills. But homeowners
without access to natural gas or propane
have had to watch in frustration
while their electric bills rise.
Electric water heaters differ from
their fossil fuel burning counterparts,
because they are already highly efficient.
Fuel burning water heaters gain
efficiency by reducing the amount of
energy lost during the fuel burning
process. Electric water heaters are
closed systems and the only way to
increase their efficiency has been to
increase the amount of insulation...
UNTIL NOW.
Introduced into the market in 2009
is the Electric Heat Pump Water
Heater. It looks much like a standard
electric water heater, except for the
small heat pump attached to the top.
It works by extracting heat from the
ambient air in the room, intensifying
it with a condenser and transferring it
to the water. The important part about
this product is that it takes much less
energy (aka money) to run the heat
pump than the direct heating element
in the water heater. So the more the
heat pump portion is used, the lower
the electric bill.
Each unit comes with a control panel
that gives you the ability to decide
what mode fits your lifestyle at any
given time. If you have overnight
guests and have an unusually large
demand for hot water, you have the
ability to change to electric only mode
or a hybrid mode that will use both
heating methods. Energy saver mode
(heat pump only) will give you the biggest
savings.
There are other bonuses to a heat
pump water heater. As part of the
heat pump feature, the area around
the water heater will experience a
cooling effect...which may help with
overall cooling costs of your home
in the summer. Dehumidification is
another byproduct which is perfect for
most basements.
Savings. The Department of Energy
estimates that the average household
can save almost $300 per year on its
electric bill compared to a standard
water heater. In addition, the only
electric water heaters that may qualify
for the Federal Tax Credit of 30% up to
$1,500 are solar and the heat pump
water heaters! PECO and PPL Electric
Utilities customers may qualify for additional
rebates.
here couldn't be a better time—take
advantage of the rebates and tax
credits to start saving today. Don't delay—
the tax credits for energy efficiency
expire at the end of 2010. If you are
interested in more information on this
product or other ways to improve your
home's energy efficiency, call Haller
Enterprises today at 717.625.1500.
I keep hearing about federal
tax credits for energy-efficient
HVAC equipment. Is the financial
payback worth the
up-front investment? Who
can help me make an informed
decision?
Answer provided by: Susan Moyer, Owner, Cocalico Plumbing & Heating
 There's lots of promotion surrounding
incentives for energy-efficient HVAC
equipment such as furnaces and
heat pumps. The tax credit created
under the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act expires December
31, 2010. Many contractors are pushing
the program as a means to spur
replacement equipment sales before a
year-end rush. But selecting equipment
that qualifies for the credit also means
selecting a product with a higher price
point.
Why? The federal program does
not provide a credit for all energy efficient
HVAC equipment. Instead, it has selected specific SEER/AFUE.
A homeowner with an old unit at the
10 SEER level would see a comfort
and financial benefit from upgrading
to a 12 SEER. Often, these are in the
middle of a price range. They do not,
however, qualify for a federal tax credit.
That means selecting a product with a
higher, up front price point.
So is it worth it? For HVAC equipment,
the tax credit is set at 30% of cost up
to $1,500.00. The equipment must be
installed in an existing home and in
your principal residence. New construction
and rentals do not qualify.
Equipment at 14-SEER or higher range
in price. In Central Pennsylvania, you
may find a qualifying product beginning
at $4,900.00 for a heat pump,
$2,600.00 cost for a furnace and
$4,700.00 for a central air unit. (These
are ranges only.) SEER, the manufacturer's
brand, installation issues and
your selected contractor all may impact
price so you will want to factor these
things into the equation when answering
the question, "Is it worth it?"
When determining if your HVAC replacement
equipment should fall within the
energy-efficiency guidelines in order to
benefit from the tax credit, you can also
consider your monthly energy savings.
Some manufacturers provide energy savings
calculators on their web sites,
which allows you to input variables
related to your equipment and regular
energy usage and then calculate the
projected savings of certain equipment
upgrades. Some contractors can help
you identify savings as well. Also consider
your long-term goals such as how
long you plan to live in the home.
For the second question: Where can
I turn for accurate information about
this type of purchase? There are plenty
of unbiased resources online that can
help. Start with www.energystar.gov for
FAQ's and credit information. As mentioned
before, product manufacturers
have valuable information, but remember
that this may be skewed toward
their own product line.
You should also speak to your accountant
prior to making a purchase. While
some contractors and manufacturers
instruct you on how to apply for the tax
credit, it's always a good idea to seek
professional accounting advice before
making a purchase that will impact
your tax filing.
At Cocalico, we council homeowners to
take their time when selecting an HVAC
contractor. Interview up to three contractors.
Ask your family and friends
for referrals. When buying replacement
HVAC equipment, it's important to
purchase a unit that is right-sized for
your home. A unit that is too large or
too small will not provide the comfort
you need. That means your decision
should be based on more than just the
tax credit and your projected monthly
savings. Now is a good time to upgrade
your HVAC unit. The current program
may not be extended beyond 2010.
But it's important to select a unit that
meets your budget today as much as one that lowers your cost tomorrow.
Choose wisely.
There has been a lot of publicity lately regarding Federal Tax Credits for the replacement of residential home heating and air conditioning equipment. We are considering upgrading our
older system, but as we read through the tax credit guidelines, we've noticed that there are minimum efficiency requirements
with terms such as AFUE, EER, SEER, and HSPF. What does all this mean?
Answer provided by: Larry Libonati, Branch Manager, Conestoga
Heating Supply
That's a great question! If you're going to make the investment in a new heating/
cooling system for your home, understanding this terminology is critical for making
proper equipment comparisons. This way, you'll know exactly what you're buying!
Let's examine the four ratings that commonly apply to air conditioners, air source
heat pumps, and fossil fuel (gas or oil) furnaces and boilers: AFUE, EER, SEER, and
HSPF.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) — This is a percentage rating (applicable
to gas or oil fired equipment) that shows the amount of heat that is actually delivered
to the home compared to the amount of fuel that is supplied to the furnace
or boiler. In simple terms, a unit that is rated at 95% AFUE converts 95% of the
supplied fuel into actual heat. The other 5% is lost during the combustion process
(out the vent).The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is: 90% for gas and oil
boilers, 90% for oil furnaces, and 95% for gas furnaces.
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) — This number represents a measure of performance
for air conditioning equipment and heat pumps in the cooling mode, but
is often emphasized less than the more commonly known SEER rating. The difference
between EER and SEER is that EER is calculated at maximum air conditioning
load (95 degrees). That's why it is necessary to know both the SEER and EER
ratings when comparing air conditioners or heat pumps. The minimum requirement
for the Tax Credit is 13 EER for split air conditioners and 12.5 EER for split
heat pumps.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) — This is another measure of performance
for air conditioning equipment and heat pumps in the cooling mode. It
is the ratio of the total cooling output divided by the total energy input over the
course of the season. It is important to note that this number is calculated using
an outdoor temperature of 85 degrees. The minimum requirement for the Tax
Credit is 16 SEER for split air conditioners and 15 SEER for split heat pumps.
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) — This is the measure of performance
for heat pumps in the heating mode. It is calculated in a similar fashion to
SEER and is divided to regions based on winter temperatures (we are considered
Region 4). The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is 8.5 HSPF for split heat
pumps.
One factor that all of these ratings have in common: The higher the number, the
more efficiently the equipment operates. Keep this in mind as you compare!
If you have any questions, or would like to be connected with a qualified HVAC professional,
please call us at Conestoga Supply (717) 569-3246.
I have been hearing a lot
about the benefits of geothermal
for heating and cooling
my home, but I am still unsure
if geothermal is right for
me. What's the best way to
evaluate the investment?
Answer provided by: Brent Hess, Sales & Marketing Manager, Groff's Home Comfort Team
Because geothermal systems take
heat from the earth to heat your home
and transfer heat to the earth to cool
your home, the system offers extremely
high levels of efficiency. In fact, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) calls geothermal the most energy-
efficient, environmentally clean and
cost-effective system available today.
A big draw of geothermal is the ultimate
cost savings. Nearly half of the
energy used in your home will come
out of the ground for free! In addition
to the energy savings, geothermal
systems are incredibly green. Heating
your home with a geothermal system
is up to 70 percent less expensive
than heating your home with electric,
oil or gas. If you plan on living in your
home for the next 5 to 10 years, the
monthly energy savings will easily pay
for the cost of the system. If a move is
in the near future, you will not realize
a significant return on your investment,
but it may help your resale value.
What's involved in the installation? The geothermal system is made up
of underground pipes and a heat
pump. Installing the pipes involves
drilling wells and digging trenches
underground in your yard. The pipes,
which form a closed loop, are filled
with water that acts as a heat transfer
agent—transferring heat to and from
your home.
Because the piping needs to be underground,
digging the trenches are a
must. Before scheduling the installation
consider the following:
• How you use your yard. Plan the
geothermal installation for a time
when you typically spend less time outdoors. For some, the installation
is best mid-fall or during the
warmer winter months.
• Consider your 3-to-5 year plan. If a
landscaping project is planned for
the future, schedule the geothermal
installation to coincide with
that work.
• The type and size of your yard. Geothermal
installation is most ideal
for flat or gently sloped lots with
accessibility. Properties with a lot
of trees, severe slopes or limited
space between neighboring homes
make installation difficult due to
the size of the equipment needed
to move in and out of your yard.
Costs and tax credits
While the cost of a geothermal system
can range between $15,000 and
$30,000, government tax credits and
utility rebates are making the investment
much more attractive and affordable.
In fact, over the course of
five years the energy savings realized
make geothermal more affordable
than purchasing a high efficiency gas
furnace or heat pump.
Homeowners who install a geothermal
system qualify for a federal tax credit
of 30 percent of the total installation
cost through the residential renewable
tax credit program, valid on systems
installed before December 31, 2016.
This credit generally offsets the cost
of well drilling, and is separate from
the $1500 tax credit for other high efficiency
upgrades such as water heaters,
windows, doors and roofs.
Groff's has been installing geothermal
systems since 1993. For more information
on geothermal systems or to
learn if geothermal is right for you,
contact Groff's Home Comfort Team at
717-464-9446 or email Brent Hess at brent@Groffs.com.
What is the one thing that a homeowner can do to reduce
energy costs and increase value in their home?
Answer provided by: Tad Shepherd, Regional Remodeling, Representative, Andersen Windows, Inc.
They can replace their patio door. This is usually one area of the home that has
one of the highest traffic uses and can also be one of the homes biggest energy
losers depending on the type of door they have.
After years of use these doors have a tendency to warp, stick, and deteriorate
due to water damage or everyday use. And let's not forget the daily excessive
heat gain or loss caused by early insulating glass panels. If your patio door falls
into this category, replacing it is a sure and simple way to improve your home.
The latest designs deliver both style and performance especially when it comes
to energy efficiency. Choosing the right one will not only save you money in
heating and cooling bills, but also enhance the architecture of your room, let
in natural light, and open the space to any exterior views. If your current door
happens to be unusual in size, that shouldn't be a problem either since most
manufacturers have custom capabilities now as well.
First Step
With such a wide range of options out there how does one go about picking “the
right one”? Start by choosing a manufacturer with a brand name you can trust;
one that offers time-tested, quality products and lasting warranty. Since patio
doors are used often and subjected to inclement weather conditions, they experience
a lot more wear and tear compared to other doors in the house. Before
buying, make sure the manufacturer includes a good warranty and service
network in case it's ever needed.
What To Look For
• The type of glass used in a patio door can make an enormous difference in
your energy bill. For example: installing patio doors with low-e glass, a transparent
heat-reflective metal coating on glass, can reduce energy loss by 30 to
50 percent. Low-e glass also blocks UV rays that can fade fabrics and damage
furniture.
• Invest in products made from quality materials like clad wood panels and
frames that provide strength and low-maintenance, and can resist the worst
Mother Nature can throw at it.
• For an added level of security, choose a hinged patio door that offers a
multiple-point lock system that locks the top, bottom and center of the door in
one motion. Look for manufacturers that feature hardware with adjustable door
hinges, easy locking mechanisms and a wide choice in hardware styles and
finishes including fashion options such as satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, bright
brass and polished chrome.
• Ideal for seasonal operation, retractable insect screens installed on the interior
of hinged doors can, when not in use, neatly hide away into a small canister
on the side of the door.
Creating A Look
Next, decide on a design. Regardless of whether you are updating your current doors or going with a completely different
look, a patio door should reflect
the style of the house while addressing
a few practical concerns. It not only
needs to be scaled to its surroundings,
but should also be constructed of
materials that are in keeping with the
overall ambiance of the room.
Types of Doors
Gliding patio doors are a good choice
when a projecting door would interfere
with interior or exterior furnishings.
Unlike the aluminum frames of
yesteryear, today's gliding patio doors
are available in a wide variety of contemporary
styles in sleek thin frames,
or for more traditional homes, space saving
sliding French-styled doors in a
classic wood design. When shopping
for this type of door look for products
with adjustable ball bearing rollers
which help gliding patio doors feel like
they’re floating, not sliding.
Hinged or “French-style” patio doors
are derived from an original 18th
century French design called the
casement door. Manufacturers have
combined traditional craftsmanship
with modern energy efficient technology
to come up with a timeless classic,
designed to fit into a wide range of
architectural styles.
These doors have framed panels, with
at least one panel capable of swinging
in or out like a conventional door.
When the door is designed to swing
out of the room, this style can save up
to 28 square feet of interior space. As
with all doors, this design should be
positioned within the natural flow of
traffic in and out of your home.
The Green Factor
With more and more homeowners
concerned about energy, going green
is no longer for old hippies and tree
huggers. That's why before you buy,
it's important to do a little homework
regarding a company's environmental
commitment. Look for products that
have a Green Seal certification, proving
that energy savings can be a beautiful
thing.
If you’re in the market for a new patio
door then go to www.andersenwindows.
com where Andersen can help
you choose a door that is right for your
home. You can also contact me at
Tad.Shepherd@andersencorp.com.
Everyone is talking about hybrid cars and saving gas. Is there a
hybrid heating and air conditioning system for my home?
Answer provided by: Dave Ressler,
Sales Consultant-Partner, Ressler & Matteer, Inc.
Yes, there is a hybrid system for your home or business. It involves a combination
of an electric heat pump and an alternate heat source like gas or oil. Most
homes built in the last 20 years have a central heating and cooling system that
operates on gas or oil for heat and electric for air conditioning.
An air conditioner absorbs heat from the air in your home and moves it to the
outdoors through a refrigeration cycle. A heat pump can reverse the process and
absorb heat from outside and bring it inside. It's hard to imagine winter air heating
your home, but the refrigerant is very cold as a gas and can absorb heat from
air well into the teens.
Heat pumps have gotten a bad reputation in the past as being uncomfortable
and inefficient. That is no longer the case. For example, at my house I have a
gas/electric hybrid system. The heat pump heats the house until the outdoor air
temperature reaches about 28 degrees. When the temperature outside goes below
28 degrees my thermostat automatically switches over to gas heating without
me doing anything.
When I adjusted the change over temperature to a higher set point (36 degrees)
my wife saw a spike in the gas bill and asked why. I explained the change and
she didn't even know we had a heat pump. Our first home had an old inefficient
heat pump which was not a good experience, so when she was happy with a heat
pump instead of gas that is proof of comfort.
A heat pump can be added to an existing oil or gas hot air furnace in place of the
air conditioner very reasonably. The system will need a new thermostat for dual
fuel change over and will include an outdoor sensor which gives you the outside
temperature at all times.
A completely new system is more expensive but hard to beat for efficiency and
comfort. Carrier offers the Infinity system with a two stage heat pump and a
modulating variable speed gas furnace coupled with an Infinity Control (thermostat)
that operates the equipment in response to indoor and outdoor conditions
to maintain temperature within ½ degree.
If you want to know if a hybrid system is right for your home, call Ressler and
Mateer, Inc. at 627-2627 and ask for Dave and I’ll give you suggestions on hybrid
comfort and a free estimate.
How do I know what is the
right hearth product for my home? With everyone worried about the costs of heating, should I run out and buy something
for supplementary heat?
Answer provided by: Beth Carr, Owner, MBC Gas & Fireplace
I would like to address the second
question first. Everyone is worried, and with some good reasons. The
price of gas and oil is going up, much
more than what we are used to causing
everyone to panic. I have people
coming in almost shaking from their
last heating bill. Does that mean you
should run right out and purchase a
bio-fuelor alternative heat source?
Not necessarily.
First lets talk about the propane and
natural gas units. Most units are
between 78 - 87% efficient. That
means for every dollar you are spending
in heating fuel, 78 to 87 cents is
coming back into your home as heat.
They can also be thermostatically controlled,
which means you can set the
unit for 70 degrees which will allow
the unit to cycle on and off, maintaining
that temperature. An additional
blower allows you to push the heat
into other rooms, or even installing
flow thru registers in the ceiling above
the unit and into the rooms above
allowing the heat to flow upstairs. A
more controlled heat, especially in
your living area, will allow you to control
your costs, and give you the heat
where you need it. The other benefit
to a natural gas or propane unit is
the fact that you do not have to carry
wood in and out, clean out ash, worry
about keeping it running. There are
storage issues and delivery issues with
alternative fuel that can also cause a
great deal of thinking and planning.
Does this mean I am anti-wood or
pellet? NO! I think pellet is a great
source of heat, and I use a pellet
stove to heat both of my showrooms.
However, this being said pellet is not
for everyone, there is a great deal of
management with pellet, you need
to be mindful of the quality of pellet
product you purchase. Make sure
that it burns as clean as possible in
your home. The lesser amount of
pollutants you put in your air the better.
Also, wood stoves are wonderful,
and I love the smell. Nothing like
the smell of burning wood on a cold
day. Efficient wood burning stoves or
fireplace inserts can add a wonderful
addition to a home that needs
extra heat. The newer wood burning
units, can be dampered to run smoothly and burn up to 8 or more
hours a day. One cord of wood can
provide almost 22,000,000 BTU's!!!
Wow! The BTU's (which stands for
British Thermal Units) is the amount of
heat required to raise the temperature
of 1 lb. of water by 1 degree fahrenheit.
Whew! To make it easier, its a
great way to compare the amount of
heat output you can expect from your
fireplace or stove. I have a worksheet
that is from a government web site,
that I will be glad to send to anyone
that emails me at bcarr@mbcfireplace.
net. It sounds very complicated,
but its not. The amount of heat you
would like to get from any unit, should
also be weighed with the cost of the
fuel, and the time it takes to prepare
the unit or keep it running.
It is very important to research the
products and ask lots of questions
before you make the purchase. This
leads me to the first question, How
do you pick the right product for your
home? There are many things to keep
in mind when purchasing a stove or
fireplace. What are you really expecting
from this product? Are you looking
for a focal point to increase the design
element of your home? Do you
need something that will provide you
with more warmth this winter? How
busy is your lifestyle? Are there small
children in the home? Is there concern with Asthma or other breathing
problems? These are just some questions
I always ask clients when they
first meet with me to help choose their
fireplace. Most people do not know
exactly what they want, and that's ok.
Its important to sift thru ideas and see
what would work. Exploring all your
ideas and possible designs, helps us to
put you in the right hearth product for
your home. There are so many options
and styles now, luckily the hearth
industry has stopped and listened,
they make a fireplace or stove to fit
almost everyone's budget or style.
I believe that researching, talking, and
planning is going to be the best way to
save this winter. Whatever product you
choose to use, make sure it fits your
lifestyle. Don't purchase something
without thinking it through the next
years. It should be a unit that you enjoy
for the next 10-20 years. The best
place to start is with a local hearth specialty
retailer, one that is willing to work
with you and guide you to the product
that best fits your needs.
How do I know when I
should have my indoor air quality tested? I hear a lot about the value of “cleaner” indoor air. But I don't know if I need a test. And how can I make sure I don't buy equipment i really don't need?
Answer provided by: Susan Moyer, Owner, Cocalico Plumbing & Heating
Good questions. Because you can't really see many of the ugly side effects associated with “contaminated” indoor air, it's hard to know when you need to have a test done. If you or your family members have allergies, get a test. If you take the “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” approach to staying healthy, get a test. But there are other reasons to have your air tested as well.
The quality of your home's air is directly tied to health. It's natural for allergens, pollutants, dust and other particles to enter the air in our homes. And air circulation or heating/cooling systems can do a lot to filter harmful particles out of the air. But there are many factors that dictate taking extra steps toward purifying your home's air, beyond relying on the filtration systems included in your heating/cooling system.
Taking a close look at your personal or family's health is one way to determine whether or not you need an indoor air quality (IAQ) test. Common symptoms of contamination include: fatigue, headaches, nausea, scratchy throat, nasal irritation and some allergies. When these symptoms are ongoing, you may want to examine what's circulating through your home. And if you find your health deteriorating each winter, shortly after you winter proof your home and turn on your heating system, that may be another signal that it's time to analyze your air quality.
There's one other way to know you need your ducts cleaned and your air quality tested. Simply look up at your vents (if you have them). If they are dusty inside and out, it's probably time to take action. This dust is being blasted into your home – and your lungs – each time your home is being heated or cooled!
Improving your family's health is a major reason to ACT NOW and have an IAQ test done. But there are other benefits as well. Improving your IAQ can reduce utility bills by allowing your HVAC systems to work at higher efficiencies. And you’ll experience improved whole-house comfort. Rooms will feel more temper-ate and you’re more likely to resolve humidity issues.
As for the final part of your question: How do you ensure that you don't buy equipment you don't need? Here's what the Cocalico Plumbing and Heating team tells customers who call for this service:
1. Hire a contractor that uses unbiased, third parties to conduct its testing. Independent assessments help guarantee accurate results and trustworthy recommendations. Not a sales pitch for equipment you don't need from the contractor who will handle equipment sales, installation and service. At Cocalico, we use AirAdvice, a leading Indoor Air Quality testing company.
2. If your test results indicate a problem, ask your contractor if servicing existing equipment is a viable option vs. buying new equipment. Some HVAC contractors that specialize in IAQ offer service for existing systems in addition to new system sales.
3. Ask for customer testimonials. How many repeat customers does your contractor have? And how many happy buyers evangelize on their behalf?
Nine out of 10 homes have a problem with their indoor air quality. Chances are, you can make some improvements. If you’re ready to improve your family's health, cut utility bills and just feel more comfortable all year round, schedule an unbiased test today.
My wife and I are adding an addition to our home. For insulation, we want efficiency as well as an environmentally-friendly product. Why is this NuWool product better than the others
and what about its cost?
Answer provided by: Steve Waller, Sales Representative, Lezzer Lumber, Harrisburg
Nu-Wool Engineered Cellulose
Insulation is made from recycled newspapers. This environmentally friendly green insulation provides up to 40% savings on energy bills when compared to conventional insulation materials. According to the Department of Energy, between 50% and 70% of the energy consumed in the typical American home goes toward heating and cooling, accounting for a large chunk of the total energy bill.
Often too much air leakage means that a lot of this energy is being wasted. The density of Nu-Wool Insulation eliminates the voids and air pockets common with conventional insulation. Annual heating and cooling bills will be lower with Nu-Wool. So, while conventional insulation can sometimes cost less initially, Nu-Wool Engineered Cellulose Insulation not only saves on energy costs, it makes your house more comfortable. Walls, ceilings, and floors stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, which helps maintain a uniform temperature throughout the house. For more information, call Lezzer Lumber in Lancaster at 717.393.3605 or in Harrisburg at 717.526.4781 or e-mail Steve Waller at stevewaller@lezzer.com.
With heating and cooling costs increasing, we are looking for ways to save energy in our home. Can window blinds and shades really make a difference?
Answer provided by: Jim Doran, Owner, Phillips Paint & Decorating Center
Although most homeowners don't buy them for this reason, there is no doubt that the use of window coverings can help make your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Not to mention the substantial reduction in ultraviolet rays which can cause your furnishings to fade.
Let's first consider some arresting numbers: 40% of the heat that escapes from your home leaves through the windows. And 50% of the solar heat that enters a room comes in through—you guessed it—the windows. Obviously, energy efficient treatments can translate into considerable utility bill savings, especially if your windows are on a cold north exposure in the winter or a sun-saturated west wall in the summer.
The most energy efficient treatments feature a honeycomb fabric construction. The cells actually trap the hot or cold air, decreasing the intensity of the temperature as it enters the room. A honeycomb shade with a triple cell construction will increase the energy efficiency of a single pane of glass by five times and more than double the energy efficiency of a double-glazed window.
These super efficient shades can also be specially manufactured for use in skylight windows. They will allow a soft filtered light to enter the room while keeping out the scorching heat all summer long.
Plantation shutters are extremely popular right now and they also do a great job of keeping out cool drafts from windows and sliding doors. Since wood is naturally insulating, they also can help keep rooms much cooler in the summer as well.
If honeycomb shades or plantation shutters don't suit your taste, many other window coverings also protect from the heat and cold. Vertical blinds, woven wood shades, and Silhouette® Window Shadings are some of the many other energy saving products to choose from. And they too can help filter out over 95% of the sun's damaging UV rays which means your furniture and flooring will last much longer without fading. An experienced window coverings dealer can help guide you to the products that will maximize energy efficiency
while beautifying your windows.
I just received information about purchasing an extended
warranty for my new heating/cooling system. Is it really worth the investment or just a scam to get more money out of
me?
Answer provided by: Don Mumma,
Service Manager, Haller Enterprises, Inc.
An extended warranty protects your investment for the long run. It's a small price to pay for your peace of mind. It covers parts and labor for any repairs that you could face as your equipment ages. Major parts are typically covered under the manufacturer's limited warranty, which is packaged with your equipment, but the labor for replacement is not. This is where an extended warranty can more than pay for itself— in fact, it can save you a bundle of money.
Parts can be cheap in relation to the actual time it takes a skilled technician to make the repair. And as you know, these rates will only increase as time marches on, so think long and hard before you pass up the opportunity to purchase an extended warranty.
Please note that routine maintenance is required as a part of any extended warranty program for your heating/cooling system. Repairs that are required due to lack of routine maintenance are not covered and will be rejected by the manufacturer. If you decide to invest in an extended warranty, don't stop short by neglecting the required maintenance to keep the program intact. Check out our Haller Preferred Customer Programs (PCPs) which allow you to select a maintenance agreement that fits your needs. For more information about extended warranty coverage for your home heating/cooling equipment, please call the Haller Service Department or contact us via email at svcreq@hallerent.com.
What can I do to survive
global warming?
Answer provided by: Joe Ranck,
Partner, Robert H. Ranck Plumbing, Heating & Air
Conditioning
As I write this on March 14th, the temperature is 78 degrees and threatens to be a record high for this date. If it is 78 in March, how will I ever survive
the upcoming summer? Before you go for the Prozac, breathe in deeply
and try to relax. Al Gore has been told by his scientist's friends to back off
a bit, because weather as we know it will remain about the same, plus or
minus a ½ degree. But on the other hand, even if Al Gore is wrong, there
will be many hot and uncomfortable days ahead of us this summer.
It is interesting that people panic more with the hot weather then they
do with the cold weather. Thirty years ago few homes had central AC, but today we demand comfort year round.
The delivery of AC has leap frogged ahead in its technology. Not only is
the equipment light years ahead of the existing units, but the science of
delivering the conditioned air to the desired space has been perfected.
Today there is no excuse for having an uncomfortable room. Humidity control
has reduced mold concerns to nil, systems are so efficient they can cut your
utility bills in half, and dust, dust mites, and spores that cause allergies can be
removed from the air. Your house can be cleaner and healthier then the great
outdoors, if your system (equipment and ductwork) is installed and sealed
properly. On the other hand, if the best equipment is installed by an untrained
professional, that same house can become a victim of sick building syndrome
and be a detriment to your family's health.
Choose carefully the contractor that services, installs, and creates your
indoor living environment. The make of the equipment is the least important
factor to consider. The contractor you choose is the key. Make all the right
moves and surviving this aspect of global warming will be a piece of cake.
I am considering upgrading my HVAC system. With so many options available today, how do I know which system is best for my home?
Answer provided by: Vincent Youndt, President,
Vertex Mechanical
When choosing the right HVAC system, you’ll need to consider both the
construction and condition of your home. Even before choosing your
heating and cooling system, you will need to examine two important
factors: insulation and infiltration. If you have a very old home, you
most likely have very little insulation, if any, and your windows may be
very leaky—allowing for outside air infiltration. Adding proper insulation
and replacing windows in your home will greatly improve the heating
and cooling efficiency of any HVAC system and will be worth the investment
in the long run. Now let's consider the different HVAC system
types and the pros and cons of each.
Heat Pumps. The most economical way of heating a home is with a heat pump. However,
these systems have what i consider an unmerited reputation of being cold and drafty. I am
convinced that this ill repute is due to faulty installation and bad duct design. Today, most
contractors perform precise duct design calculations which make a heat pump system feel
just about as comfortable as any other heat. The cost of a Super High Efficiency System such
as 15+ SEER may not be worth the additional expense over a 13 SEER system. Ask your HVAC
salesperson to do a cost of operation comparison between the two systems to see how long
it would take to pay off the additional expense. If the payback is under 8-9 years, you should
consider it. Anything over 10 years is probably not worth the additional cost, considering the
average 12-year life span of most air-to-air heat pump systems.
Fueloilor Gas. Either of these fuel systems are good choices if you have a large home with insulation
and/or infiltration issues. They have potentially fast recovery if you want to use a set
back/programmable thermostat. The cost of operation is about the same between oil and LP
because LP is a bi-product of oil. If you have the availability of natural gas, it is hard to beat.
It is the most economical way to heat and you never need to refuel a tank. Gas furnaces are
also very efficient, very reliable and require very minimal maintenance. Oil furnaces provide
you with a lot of BTU's per gallon, however most fuel burners are only running at 83%-87%
efficiency and require maintenance and cleaning on a regular basis.
Geothermal and Radiant In-Floor Heat. These two heating options are ideal in certain applications.
Since an explanation would require a much lengthier description than this column
allows, I suggest that you consult with your heating and cooling professional for more information.
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