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Lancaster County Home Improvement Guide


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R&A Magazine: Ask the Experts » HVAC / Heating / Plumbing / Energy Efficiency

[ Click each Question for the Answer ]
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
HAJOCA CorporationAfter 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
HAJOCA CorporationAbsolutely. 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
LanChester Grill & Hearth, LLCThis 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.
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
HAJOCA CorporationWhen 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.
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
HomeTowne Realty Professionals, LLCThere'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
Groff’s Home Comfort TeamBecause 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.

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.
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
MBC Gas & FireplaceI 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

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

Steve Waller, Sales Representative, Lezzer Lumber, HarrisburgNu-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
Jim DoranAlthough 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.
Don MummaAn 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
James T. HanselmanAs 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
Vincent YoundtWhen 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.