tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33312163477035358752024-02-19T19:33:12.233-05:00Farrell BrothersFarrell Brothers Inc. has been the Capital District Region's heating, plumbing and air conditioning specialists for nearly 90 years in upstate New York and knows its towns, cities and villages; its people and their homes like family. Our satisfaction comes from our commitment to making a better ~ healthier ~ safer lifestyle for each and every one of our customers.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-59933111606162486882012-04-30T17:11:00.000-04:002012-04-30T17:11:55.354-04:00Turn Down The Water<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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What happens when you set your home thermostat too high? Your furnace wastes money. And, if you set
your water heater thermostat too high, what happens? Your washing machine,
dishwasher and every faucet in the house wastes energy. But more seriously, you or
your family could suffer serious burns.<br />
<br />
There are nearly 3,800 injuries
and 34 deaths reported every year because someone is scalded in their home from excessively hot tap
water, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Here are some tips for being smarter and safer with hot water.<br />
<br />
<u><strong style="color: red;">Set it and <em>don't</em> forget it</strong></u><br />
<br />
Most water heater thermostats lack a dial that
indicates precise temperatures, so it's tempting to just pick a random
setting. But some heaters can deliver 160-degree water—10 degrees hotter
than what causes third-degree burns on adults in only 2 seconds.<br />
<br />
Instead of guessing, set the dial at the
halfway mark and allow water to reach its standby temperature (after the
burner goes off). Then run only hot water for one minute at the faucet
nearest the water heater and test the temperature using a meat or candy
thermometer. Retest and adjust the dial until water reaches about 120
degrees, which is a temperature suggested by the CPSC.<br />
<br />
<u><strong style="color: red;">Make warm the norm</strong></u><br />
<br />
That 120-degree setting handles most household
needs, such as bathing and laundry. (Few fabrics today require washing
at the "hot" setting.) Dishwashers, however, require 140-degree water to
effectively dissolve the detergent and clean dishes. When replacing
your dishwasher, consider one with a booster heater that raises the tap
water temperature. This feature pays for itself within a year if you
lower your water heater setting, according to the U.S. Department of
Energy, which offers these<a href="http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=13050" target="_blank"> tips on reducing</a> hot water use.<br />
Even water dialed down to 120 degrees can burn young children. Faucets that help keep that from happening include:<br />
<ul>
<li> Temperature-control faucets with adjustable stops that prevent turning the dial beyond a certain setting</li>
<li>Thermostatic-valve showers that monitor the mixed water and adjust the flows to maintain a constant temperature</li>
<li>Pressure-balancing shower valves, which
reduce hot water flow to compensate for the sudden loss of cold water
when a toilet is flushed or tap opened</li>
</ul>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-5757528625014218242012-04-23T12:36:00.000-04:002012-04-23T12:44:43.996-04:00Nationwide Radium Testing of Groundwater Shows Most Susceptible Regions are Central U.S. and East Coast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Groundwater in aquifers on the East Coast and in the Central U.S. has
the highest risk of contamination from radium, a naturally occurring
radioactive element and known carcinogen.<br />
<br />
According to a study conducted by the USGS, radium was detected in
concentrations that equaled or exceeded U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency drinking water standards in more than one in five wells tested in
the Mid-Continent and Ozark Plateau Cambro-Ordovician aquifer systems,
underlying parts of Ark., Ill., Ind., Iowa, Mich., Minn., Mo, and Wis.;
and the North Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system, underlying parts of
Del., Md., N.J., N.Y., N.C., and Va.<br />
<br />
Radium is generally present at low levels in all soil, water, and
rocks, including groundwater. However, the study found that if the
groundwater has low oxygen or low pH, radium is more likely to dissolve
and become present in the groundwater. Low oxygen conditions were
prevalent in the Mid-Continent and Ozark Plateau Cambro-Ordovician
aquifer systems, and low pH conditions were prevalent in the North
Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system.<br />
<br />
"Radium is a troubling contaminant in groundwater because it cannot
be readily detected by taste or smell, nor are the analytical methods
for measurement easily applied by non-experts," said USGS director
Marcia McNutt. "This new-found correlation between radium contamination
and low oxygen or low pH allows very simple tests to determine which
groundwater sources are at risk from radium, and why."<br />
<br />
Low oxygen or low pH conditions were associated with more frequent detections of radium in <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_25946898">other aquifers</a><a href="http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/trace/radium/index.html" target="_blank"> </a>as well.<br />
<br />
"This is the first nationwide study to identify geochemical factors
present in many aquifers, such as low dissolved oxygen or low pH, that
make groundwater more susceptible to radium contamination," said Jeffrey
Fischer, USGS hydrologist and a coauthor of the paper. "These simple
geochemistry measurements are good indicators of where radium is likely
to exceed a standard and can help managers and the EPA anticipate areas
where radium may be elevated."<br />
<br />
In most aquifers used for drinking water supply, radium
concentrations were below EPA standards, especially in the western
U.S.<br />
<br />
Exposure to elevated levels of radium over long periods of time can
increase the risk of cancer. Radium can enter the body in drinking
water. It behaves similarly to calcium and can replace calcium in
tissues, particularly bone. Long-term exposure to radium increases the
risk of developing diseases such as bone and sinus cancer, lymphoma, and
leukemia.<br />
<br />
Radium is derived from the common long-lived radioactive elements,
uranium and thorium, which decay slowly to produce radioactive elements
like radium. Groundwater flowing slowly through pores or cracks in
underground rocks and sediments can dissolve radium-bearing minerals as
it moves. Three commonly occurring types are radium-228, radium-226, and
radium-224.<br />
<br />
1,266 wells were sampled by the USGS <a href="http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3331216347703535875">National Water-Quality Assessment Program</a>
(NAWQA) from 1990 to 2005 and analyzed for radium-226 and radium-228
for comparison to the EPA drinking water standard. A subset of 645
water samples were analyzed for the short-lived radium radionuclide,
radium-224, which had not previously been measured in many parts of the
nation, but is a concern in drinking water. A specific drinking-water
standard has not been established for this form of radium. This study
examined untreated water from the wells, and the findings represent the
quality of water in aquifers before treatment.<br />
<br />
Approximately 50% of the nation relies on groundwater as their
primary drinking-water supply. NAWQA is the only source of nationally
consistent monitoring data and information on chemical contaminants in
groundwater. The program also conducts regional and national studies of
the susceptibility and vulnerability of the nation's most important
aquifers.<br />
<br />
The study, titled "Occurrence and Geochemistry of Radium in Water
from Principal Drinking-Water Aquifers of the United States" by By
Zoltan Szabo, Vincent T. dePaul, Jeffrey M. Fischer, Thomas F. Kraemer,
and Eric Jacobsen, is published in the journal Applied Geochemistry.<br />
<br />
The article and a USGS fact sheet about this study is available <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_263590370">online</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/trace/radium/index.html" target="_blank">.</a><br />
<br />
Learn how you can protect not only your water but your family as well with a simple water purification and treatment solution. Click <a href="http://www.easywater.com/?ac=5454" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information.<br />
<br /><a href="http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/trace/radium/index.html" target="_blank"></a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-22553780905386095812012-04-16T10:43:00.000-04:002012-04-16T10:43:57.844-04:00How To Landscape Around Your A/C Unit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div>
<span style="font-family: book Antiqua,Palatino;"> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Even though the
compressor is the workhorse of the air conditioner, it can be an eyesore
to your home and property. Here are some landscaping suggestions:</span></span></div>
<br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Decide if you want to work with edging such as rocks or a fence. </div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Choose plants that are taller than the height of the compressor (standard is 1-2 feet). </div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
If
you choose immature plants, keep in mind how tall and wide they will
be when they reach maturity. Mixing and matching shrubs with bushy
perennials will help fill in the area and provide continuing color and
greenery throughout the year. </div>
<br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Select perennial plants or shrubs that require little to no maintenance and will stay or return each year. </div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Astilbe grows in most plant hardiness zones. The plant reaches up to
29 inches in height and has a lush green foliage lasting throughout
spring in summer. Puffy plumes of color in your choice of pinks, reds
and whites appear throughout the summer. </div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Hydrangea
that reaches up to four feet in height. The hydrangea blooms in your
choice of bright colored pink, white or blue spheres -- throughout the
summer into early fall.</div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-bottom: 0px;">
Place plants at least 3 feet away from the compressor. Overcrowding
of plants and shrubs will block air flow in and out of the compressor
-- leading to overheating and permanent damage to your central air
system. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-78998401315486712492012-04-10T10:36:00.000-04:002012-04-10T10:36:52.301-04:00Going Green With Your Plumbing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5P1hBXcDr5kKUMvlanHbpHpNTJRPIoWOJQd0TgCVXk9m933G4xXBZg06gclmWDE82g4JFuWiTOhRg3Qa5fg72ZcKl-X9YZ15BJU0yNolQMa4rcvVmZBTkdtyBm4AWQdhXvSMoDjZXSw/s1600/going+green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5P1hBXcDr5kKUMvlanHbpHpNTJRPIoWOJQd0TgCVXk9m933G4xXBZg06gclmWDE82g4JFuWiTOhRg3Qa5fg72ZcKl-X9YZ15BJU0yNolQMa4rcvVmZBTkdtyBm4AWQdhXvSMoDjZXSw/s200/going+green.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Times are changing as the idea of “Going
Green” becomes more and more popular and prevalent throughout the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing what footprint you are leaving upon our
environment is not only important but consciously doing something to help preserve
our natural resources for future generations, is the responsibility of us all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can begin in your home.</span><br />
<br />
<b>1. Install low flow shower heads to cut back on the amount of water that
is used while showering.</b><br />
<br />
These are called energy efficient shower heads because
they decrease energy consumption due to less water being heated.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Install low flow toilets.</b><br />
<br />
They use less water per flush than a more traditional setup, roughly 1.6 gallons of water per flush. Older models
use as much as 3.6 gallons. A low flow toilet can save thousands of gallons of
water per year, per household.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Install faucet aerators.</b><br />
<br />
They break down the flow of water into small drops, allowing usage of less water while still maintaining effectiveness for
washing your hands, etc.<br />
<br />
<b>4.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Install
an efficient hot water circulator during your remodel.</b><br />
<b> </b> <br />
Tankless water heaters are great for endless hot water but think about including a circulator as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nobody wants to siphon water from their hot water lines when flushing
their toilet or watering their lawn. So do your research and ask questions
because your families comfort and lifestyle will be affected for years to come.<br />
<br />
Don’t do it because you don’t want to pay a plumber to install the proper
equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do it because you’ll be doing
your part to help save on a natural resource that is being depleted
insurmountably. <br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-55491637850293154752012-04-03T19:22:00.000-04:002012-04-03T19:22:39.584-04:00Should You Replace A Working A/C System?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2eTyQ7Jy96CMfRAEHde0DwDL7cJCThf3VaLxx16o1l37TRMLLChL7X227HPPSw5UrRHqhyphenhyphenLrnxw330FaDYB9C8SU3n81Lo4BKQaHjN7YNoiEd1zAALVJ80HoSK3HX-PTAbCTLu0Tzho/s1600/air+conditioning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2eTyQ7Jy96CMfRAEHde0DwDL7cJCThf3VaLxx16o1l37TRMLLChL7X227HPPSw5UrRHqhyphenhyphenLrnxw330FaDYB9C8SU3n81Lo4BKQaHjN7YNoiEd1zAALVJ80HoSK3HX-PTAbCTLu0Tzho/s1600/air+conditioning.jpg" /></a></div>
Now that Spring has officially arrived and we know the temperatures will <span style="text-decoration: underline;">stay</span>
warm, we'll begin the task of making sure the lawn is mowed and
fertilized, the vegetable garden is weeded and hoed and our landscapes
are adorned with beautiful flowers and pruned shrubs.<br /><br />Don't
forget your air conditioning system as well. We've already experienced
how crazy Mother Nature has been lately. One never knows what the
Summer has in store for us. While most might think, "If it ain't broke,
don't fix it," there are still "fixes" that don't have anything to do
with being broken. They are called <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>upgrades</b></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>improvements.</b></span><br /><br />If your system is <b>over 8 years old</b>,
you have an energy hog on your hands. Air conditioners always go out
at the worst time possible, so be sure to schedule a checkup before the
summer swings into full gear. Even if you don't need to buy a new
unit, you'll be comfortable during the hot months knowing your unit
isn't about to kick the bucket.<br /><br />If you do need to replace your unit, consider this fancy little acronym <b>SEER</b>,
which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the
number, the more energy efficient the unit is, which means the more
money you will save on your energy bill. The number to look for is
16-23. They have a higher upfront cost, but will save you $$$$ in the
long run.<br /><br />If you live in the Capital District Region in upstate New York, give us a call today. We'll be happy to inspect your system for you. <span style="font-size: 14pt;">518- 462-5454</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-3753159420194314902012-03-26T16:08:00.003-04:002012-03-26T16:08:52.185-04:0010 Ways To Get "Green" Tax Breaks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lqu7V5R5SX3IUhSvHFv1HQt4ZLM1BFEwGTGNWqEw5SApNSjHv6QXw987igd5awVet6AS-iZXTTROkdfDM04mk-RHpdaoUqVJ_C3BGVI69eGUR5k0CL2TlMqtfeQBPDVEjAx9Q2r37tE/s1600/green+energy+savings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lqu7V5R5SX3IUhSvHFv1HQt4ZLM1BFEwGTGNWqEw5SApNSjHv6QXw987igd5awVet6AS-iZXTTROkdfDM04mk-RHpdaoUqVJ_C3BGVI69eGUR5k0CL2TlMqtfeQBPDVEjAx9Q2r37tE/s200/green+energy+savings.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Uncle Sam wants you to green up your act! The United States government is offering tax incentives and credits to people who renovate their homes
with energy-saving technologies and/or buy hybrid vehicles. These
technologies usually save money, and with an added tax break, you'll be
raking in the dough. Here are ten ways to claim federal tax credits and incentives by doing eco friendly stuff:<br />
<br />
1.
Buying a hybrid, a car that runs on alternative power, or a lean-burn
diesel vehicle can net you a tax break of $250-$3,400. This refund is
dependent on the amount of gas saved by the engine and the overall
weight of the vehicle. If you buy two hybrids, you get two tax breaks.<br />
<br />
2.
People who buy and install energy-efficient windows, insulation, roofs,
doors, air conditioners and central-heating units can receive a $500
tax credit.<br />
<br />
3. If you have a swimming pool or hot tub heated by
solar power, you can recoup thirty percent of your expenditures, unless
it exceeds $2,000. In those cases, you would just get a refund of 2k.<br />
<br />
4. You can recoup 10% or $200 from a green exterior window or skylight installation as long as they meet IECC standards.<br />
<br />
5. Replacing exterior doors with eco-friendly ones will net you 10% or $500 dollars back.<br />
<br />
6. With a metal, Energy-Star roof you can reclaim 10% or $500.<br />
<br />
7. Certain types of insulation will allow you to recoup 10% or $500.<br />
<br />
8.
Greening up your central air-conditioning unit, utilizing geothermal
heat pumps, installing air source heat pumps, putting in a gas, oil or
propane water heater or an electric heat pump water heater will entitle
you to garner a $300 dollar tax credit for each qualifying improvement.<br />
<br />
9. A gas, oil, propane furnace or hot water boiler installed in your
home will make you eligible for a $150 tax credit.<br />
<br />
10. An advanced
main air circulating fan allows you to claim a $50 refund. Every
state has its own <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1283058262">tax breaks</a><a href="http://energy.gov/savings">.</a> Make sure to utilize those as well. If you plan to go green, check the<a href="http://energy.gov/savings" target=""> tax code</a> first.<br />
<br />
Made available through <a href="http://money.howstuffworks.com/personal-finance/personal-income-taxes/green-tax-breaks.htm" target="_blank">http://money.howstuffworks.com/personal-finance/personal-income-taxes/green-tax-breaks.htm</a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-27860269334299343852012-03-12T09:13:00.000-04:002012-03-12T09:13:45.428-04:00Sump-Pumps ~ Are They Necessary?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Spring time means melting snow, heavy rain and whatever else Mother Nature decides to throw our way. Weather patterns have changed dramatically over the years, which leads homeowners never knowing what to expect. Flooding is damaging and once it begins, there is little you can do to hold it back.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Even if your basement
isn't prone to flooding, it would be wise to make sure your sump pump
is operating at maximum effectiveness.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Do you have a sump
pump? Do you have it tested annually by a plumbing professional in
order to ensure it is and will run properly when you need it?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
If you don't have one and uncertain how it works - well, it's used to extract
accumulated water and generally installed in the basement just under the
ground in a hole referred to as the Sump Pit. When the sensor in the
pit (often known as the "float") fills with water above a certain
level, the sump pump automatically turns on and drains out the water. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Homeowners often opt to
install an emergency backup sump pump just in case the main sump pump
runs out of power or breaks down for any reason. Emergency backup sump
pumps are used not only in the event of power outages or when the main
sump pump fails, but when the water load is too big for your main sump
pump to handle as well. Emergency backup sump pumps run on batteries
and can be real lifesavers during power outages. These specific types
of emergency backup pumps are used only for backup purposes and come
with rechargeable batteries which last as much as 6 to 7 hours.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy099FJ8yQVgaAtFcop7ibeLEYQtFK1H3ntwmhl1Ih5zDo3s7HMH-QKiHV3h1KJlt2qWticEsoygWUlTe7R5GRyKRqIjBqwnnm2V0b693a206Gt6v_bvJUktT9Fqs6Ew5oGtrtKUZhT4/s1600/flooded+basement2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy099FJ8yQVgaAtFcop7ibeLEYQtFK1H3ntwmhl1Ih5zDo3s7HMH-QKiHV3h1KJlt2qWticEsoygWUlTe7R5GRyKRqIjBqwnnm2V0b693a206Gt6v_bvJUktT9Fqs6Ew5oGtrtKUZhT4/s200/flooded+basement2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
What's the big deal?
Besides the damage a flooded basement can do to flooring, drywall, and
framing in the basement, mechanical systems such as electrical panels,
water heaters and heating systems are at risk in the event of a flood. A
sump pump can literally save you thousands of dollars in repairs, not
to mention the loss of personal property you may store in the basement.
If structural damage isn't enough to convince you of the importance
of a properly functioning sump pump and an emergency back-up system, be
aware that excessive moisture may contribute to serious health
problems. Moisture leads to mold, which can be extremely hazardous to
your health. Additionally, extreme moisture can cause fungus to build
up and destroy the wood in your home leading to the infestation of wood
destroying insects such as termites.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Often times, sump pumps
and backup pumps are not something you think about until it's too late.
Therefore, be proactive. If you are considering purchasing and
installing a sump pump, we recommend you consult advice from a plumbing
professional who can show you how a small investment today can
literally save you hundreds of dollars down the road.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-37280885534577062422012-02-25T11:24:00.000-05:002012-02-25T11:24:56.811-05:00What To Look For When Hiring A Plumber<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RGDaRTSgvtKmc0ftTTEACILo0weLos2YFsjHs2U1Q6L-8V213km4gU1xPTwRlj_dIjJ_dXQjMr2h9V2ukuOoNutykuu10sltDWrurkcDS1JxtnroNWMgWKV3_oGR4DyNYgTi1L8A9c8/s1600/plumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RGDaRTSgvtKmc0ftTTEACILo0weLos2YFsjHs2U1Q6L-8V213km4gU1xPTwRlj_dIjJ_dXQjMr2h9V2ukuOoNutykuu10sltDWrurkcDS1JxtnroNWMgWKV3_oGR4DyNYgTi1L8A9c8/s200/plumber.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
Hiring a plumber for any job, big or small, can make even the most confident consumer shrivel with fear.<br />
<code></code><br />
The fact of the matter is that hiring a plumber is not always as easy as
it sounds. You may think that everything is okay just to learn that you
either spent too much money, or hired the wrong person for the job.<br />
<code></code><br />
The following tips may not be well known, but they can help you hire the right plumber for the job:<br />
<span id="more-625"></span><br />
1. Group together all of your repairs so the plumber only has to visit
your home one time. You can save a lot of money by doing this, while
also ensuring that all of the repairs are made without delay.<br />
<code></code><br />2. Request a written estimate before the work starts. Many consumers never do this because they take the plumber’s word for it.
There is nothing wrong with trusting your plumber, but to protect both
parties this is something you definitely want to do. Every reputable
plumber will offer to give a written estimate before getting their hands
wet.<br />
<code></code><br />3. Select a plumber that is insured and licensed. When you choose a
plumber on a whim, such as by an ad in a local paper, you never know
what you are going to get.
During your initial conversation, ask the plumber if they are insured
and licensed. This can go a long way in easing your stress.<br />
<code></code><br />
4. Ask how their rate is calculated. Are you being charged a flat rate
for the entire project? Or will you be paying an hourly rate? This is an
important question, but one that many forget to ask. <br />
<br />
5. Don't be afraid to ask for references or inquire if they're part of a consumer organization that provides them. This can be helpful in your selection especially if they are A+ rated.<br />
<code></code><br />
These four tips may not be discussed all the time, but they can help you
immensely when hiring a plumber. If you implement these tips, while
also using your common sense, you will hire the right plumber and have
all your problems fixed in no time at all.<br />
<code></code><br />
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-62065617444201715522012-02-23T11:25:00.000-05:002012-02-25T11:03:00.812-05:00Is Bacteria Your Body Can't Resist In Your Water?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMwpT-spiIahqo0VEB3yOWyO-24H3GY0aAWYSp2qoRpTL_iJDo33FFPb55WtFrSVEgeFivGGaUDOzQrJa2HoMz4PjuzQyz4m7ma31Aet1JcJStcT4YLldAvgtJ-F76aGJl1DksVvHDlI/s1600/bacteria_&_viruses_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW2oVLNpCLIGlMcRLkUuM23iD9eGmh4fPh6DrQDjc0aPywlnVtkjwt_cuPd96W9gm_DSOttwO_snIq8voESLc0H7jpILb2LUOyG201JDhz0qblbzc7fUIGUydgiYCeDi_u4RbdmOEzP8/s1600/bacteria_&_viruses_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAW2oVLNpCLIGlMcRLkUuM23iD9eGmh4fPh6DrQDjc0aPywlnVtkjwt_cuPd96W9gm_DSOttwO_snIq8voESLc0H7jpILb2LUOyG201JDhz0qblbzc7fUIGUydgiYCeDi_u4RbdmOEzP8/s1600/bacteria_&_viruses_.jpg" /></a></div>
In some cities, residents are turning up with unexplained antibiotic
resistant infections. <a href="http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/02/09/antibiotic-resistance-wastewater/" target="_blank">Researchers</a> have discovered that these infections
may be caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria in their water supply.
Unfortunately, the problem only worsens at the water treatment plant.<br />
<br />
Water treatment plants typically will use “good” bacteria to digest
waste, as part of the treatment process. Antibiotic resistant bacteria
enters the water supply due to the misuse of medications, agricultural
chemicals or cleaning products, and generally die off as part of
the water treatment process. Sadly, the genetic material for
these “bad” bacteria will mingle with that of the “good” bacteria,
forming an entire reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in water.<br />
<br />
While multi-stage filtration by water treatment plants will capture
much of the antibiotic resistant genetic material, researchers have been
able to detect enough of the harmful bacteria in water to warrant
further research. In the meantime, if you’re concerned about the effects
of antibiotic resistant bacteria in your water, think about installing a system that will protect your home and family and assure that the water you're drinking isn't harmful. Our <a href="http://www.easywater.com/?ac=5454" target="_blank">whole-home system</a> is the solution and our <a href="http://www.easywater.com/products/bacteria-shield/" target="_blank">Easy Water Bacteria Shield</a> uses the natural power of UV light to deactivate bacteria, viruses, cysts and other dangers in your water.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-56173473888583616152012-02-15T12:40:00.000-05:002012-02-15T12:57:45.113-05:00What Is HVAC?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHhR0-B2PDlxD-zQFJJ2t7b4Ej0dAU39nIGp2W8D1t1x6CTGTEJ1FDzWsrTLv10LpM-Td58yo0RBWjAxjl3HxeSvzx_nXz9RdkvBsPRkDN1aqv1DDqbBAkRJthBpVseXE_beDeXd0XEk/s1600/Air+Conditioning+Unit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHhR0-B2PDlxD-zQFJJ2t7b4Ej0dAU39nIGp2W8D1t1x6CTGTEJ1FDzWsrTLv10LpM-Td58yo0RBWjAxjl3HxeSvzx_nXz9RdkvBsPRkDN1aqv1DDqbBAkRJthBpVseXE_beDeXd0XEk/s200/Air+Conditioning+Unit.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
Enjoying a finished attic space in the summer sounds like a nice
idea, but the room is like a sauna. Can anything be done to make the top
floor as cool as the first and not cause the utility bills to
skyrocket? Yes! Choosing an efficient system and making sure that ducts
are well sealed are critical steps to keeping every room of the house
cool.<br />
<br />
Air conditioning is a component of the HVAC (heating,
ventilating and air conditioning) system. The air-conditioning unit sits
outside of the home and pumps liquid refrigerant (a liquid that cools
something -- often referred to as "Freon") into the air-handling unit
(AHU), the unit inside the home that generates heated or cooled air. The
AHU generates cool air and forces it through the home via supply ducts
and into rooms. (Ducts are passageways, usually tubular and made from
sheet metal, flexible material or rigid insulation, that deliver air
from the AHU throughout the home, and also return air from the rooms
back into the AHU for re-circulation.) Meanwhile, the slightly warmed
refrigerant travels back outside to the air conditioner, where it's
cooled and re-circulated.<br />
<br />
It's important to note, however, that
even a high SEER unit may not perform well if the overall HVAC system,
including how the air is distributed through the home, hasn't been well
planned. As part of the HVAC system, duct work plays a critical role in
delivering cool air to the rooms. A state-of-the-art air conditioner is
only effective if the air it cools reaches the family. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3331216347703535875.post-48579029024315705792012-02-09T13:43:00.000-05:002012-02-10T12:19:28.673-05:00The Silent Killer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_YGMNfej_q6ApE0s0EiCe58MCVY68YBEViV6p57fuK8MVbkliEZHNyREKL3IPkMt2CWxFIuKSKkz1RNNylKyOKF3y9K9-iFKHp_-KXy0oKAChyZkDmmakzY65OJutmsIKQxtnR4GGgE/s1600/77574528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz_YGMNfej_q6ApE0s0EiCe58MCVY68YBEViV6p57fuK8MVbkliEZHNyREKL3IPkMt2CWxFIuKSKkz1RNNylKyOKF3y9K9-iFKHp_-KXy0oKAChyZkDmmakzY65OJutmsIKQxtnR4GGgE/s200/77574528.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Defective furnaces,
fireplaces, flues, space heaters, ovens, oil heaters and any
gasoline-powered engines are most frequently responsible for accidental
carbon monoxide (CO) poisonings. When improperly vented, malfunctioning systems and
appliances like furnaces and air-conditioners can slowly fill your home
with CO.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
In
the United States, CO leaks are known as the "silent killer" responsible for an estimated 500
deaths a year and more than 15,000 trips to the emergency room. However,
as CO poisoning often goes unreported, the number of instances is most
likely much higher. <br />
<br />
<u><b>What Can You Look For?</b></u><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
CO
is dangerous because there tend to be no noticeable symptoms if an
individual's CO levels are at less than 10 percent in the bloodstream.
Above 10 percent, CO poisoning symptoms may mimic the flu or a cold. At
that level, symptoms may include:</div>
<ul>
<li>Headache</li>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Mild confusion</li>
<li>Irregular breathing and heartbeat</li>
<li>Nausea</li>
<li>Coughing </li>
</ul>
Take
note especially if everyone in the home is experiencing at least some
of the symptoms, and pay particular attention if pets exhibit symptoms,
since animals cannot get the flu. <br />
When CO levels exceed 20 percent, the poisoning can be fatal.<br />
<br />
<u><b>What Should You Do?</b></u><br />
<u><b> </b></u><br />
If you suspect that you or members of your family are suffering from CO poisoning: <br />
<ul>
<li>Evacuate your home; get everyone outdoors immediately.</li>
<li>Call 9-1-1 from another location.</li>
<li>Report it to the fire department, even if everyone is feeling better.</li>
</ul>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Be prepared. Be safe. </div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15984579615891583154noreply@blogger.com0