Sealing Homes After Winter's Wrath
(NewsUSA) - The winter weather trifecta of ice, snow and wind can leave a house full of new cracks and openings, rendering it defenseless when spring brings rain and unexpected pests. Unfortunately, the total damage left by winter's wrath may not be known until after pests have already invaded your home. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), more than half of homeowners are concerned about pest damage to their homes and property -- and rightfully so. "Increased moisture from melting ice and snow can create cracks and holes in roofs and foundations, allowing pests easy access," said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association. "Ice dams, which form on roofs and prevent snow from melting, are especially problematic as they can damage walls, ceilings, insulation and drywall, with resulting moisture attracting pests such as termites and carpenter ants." If pests have already found their way indoors, immediate action is recommended. "Homeowners should deal with a pest problem right away since household pests breed relatively quickly. A small pest problem can result in a full-blown infestation in a matter of weeks, posing serious health risks to homeowners and their families," advised Henriksen. The first step toward keeping spring pests outdoors is to repair any obvious damage. The NPMA recommends the following advice: * Look for missing roof shingles, ripped window screens and clogged gutters, all of which are as inviting as a "Pests welcome" vacancy sign. * Seal cracks and holes, including entry points for utilities and pipes. * Replace weather-stripping, and repair loose mortar around basement foundations and windows. * Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry. * Vacuum around doors and windows, as these are key entry points for eager pests. Frequent vacuuming can catch invaders like spiders, silverfish, earwigs and beetles. * Inspect garages and outbuildings for rodent tenants. Organize cluttered debris, boxes and random items along the walls where mice may hide or nest. Does spring cleaning call for a new shelving unit? * Partner with a local pest professional to treat existing infestations, and consider a quarterly maintenance plan to keep pests out for good. For more information about pest maintenance, tips on identifying an infestation and locating a qualified and licensed pest professional, visit www.pestworld.org.

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Programming Thermostats for Energy Savings and Comfort
(NewsUSA) - From smart phones to programmable thermostats, today's electronics come equipped with advanced operating systems that make life easier and more efficient. The challenge is knowing how to take full advantage of the capabilities of these devices. Consider indoor environment devices like programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats are capable of controlling the entire heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system -- from heating to indoor air quality and energy management. "Adjusting the temperature up and down doesn't equate to savings or even comfort in the home," said Jonathan Payne, product manager of programmable controls at Carrier. "The key to total comfort is the homeowner's ability to control the temperature, humidity, air circulation and energy use." Although many homes have programmable thermostats, they may not be programmed or used properly. To truly realize the advantages of a programmable thermostat, consider these tips: 1. Choose a thermostat that manages your system properly and efficiently. Select a thermostat that is not only easy for you to understand and program, but one that controls all of the equipment in your HVAC system, including an air purifier, humidifier, air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump. 2. Have the HVAC control or thermostat installed by a Carrier authorized dealer or other HVAC expert to ensure the wiring and settings are configured to match the needs of your specific system. 3. Choose a program that fits well with your lifestyle, and stick with it. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), energy can be saved if you keep energy-saving set points activated for longer timeframes. So, you could leave home energy-saving set points on during the work/school day, or at night when family members are asleep, for instance. 4. Avoid overuse of the temporary "hold" feature. If you consistently "hold" or over-ride the pre-programmed settings, you could be wasting energy. The EPA suggests that the "hold" and "vacation" settings should be set several degrees warmer and cooler in the summer and winter months, respectively, and only used when you're away from home for an extended stay. 5. Try not to achieve a quick fix. The EPA's Proper Use Guidelines for Programmable Controls indicates that you will not heat or cool your house faster by adjusting the temperature on your thermostat to the extremes -- up to 80 degrees or down to 30 degrees. To learn more about Carrier programmable thermostats, call 1-800-CARRIER or visit www.residential.carrier.com.

Thu, 5 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Energy-Efficient Heating Keeps Cost-Conscious Homes Cozy
(NewsUSA) - With many Americans watching their budgets, heating homes has become an unwanted, though necessary, expense. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, many American homes will experience higher heating costs this winter due to increased fuel prices. Thankfully, simple behavior changes and energy-efficient appliances can help homeowners cut their heating bills and still enjoy the same level of comfort. "Energy-efficient heating means that you use less energy to heat the same space," said Phil Weeks, chief operating officer of Rinnai America Corporation, a company that manufactures gas heating appliances. "This saved energy translates into reduced utility costs for homeowners." Some energy-efficient heating devices, like Rinnai's hydronic furnace, which works in conjunction with the company's tankless water heater, can heat a home while still conserving energy. Featuring a high-efficiency motor that offers up to 48 percent better efficiency than a comparable traditional motor, the hydronic furnace is powered by Rinnai's gas-modulating tankless technology, so it uses only the energy needed to maintain a room's desired temperature. Because the unit utilizes hot water from the tankless water heater to heat air, the heat it provides is less dry than that of a typical forced-air furnace. Another efficient heating option is to forego a traditional furnace in favor of a direct vent wall furnace. These ductless units are capable of comfortably heating whole homes or specific zones, depending on the need, and save energy by constantly adjusting heat output and blower speed to meet current demand. Rinnai's gas-modulating direct vent wall furnace also can serve as a supplementary heat source for basements, guest rooms, room additions and generally hard-to-heat areas, thus reducing the demand placed on a home's central heating system. Of course, homeowners can take steps to help their current heating units operate on less energy. Consider the following efforts: * Seal and weather strip doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping the home. * Reverse the direction of ceiling fans (so they turn clockwise) to push warm air down from the ceiling. * Minimize the use of bathroom and kitchen hood fans as they can quickly remove heat from the air. For more information, visit www.rinnai.us.

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

A Mouse in the House? Tips for Finding a Qualified Pest Professional
(NewsUSA) - Have you grown accustomed to the sight of gnawed-on package corners, bread crumb trails or mouse droppings? Are your Frosted Flakes littered with meal moth wings and larvae? Have you noticed several connect-the-dot piles of sawdust from hungry termites or beetles? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you have a pest problem, and not the kind to be solved by a trip to the hardware store. Pest problems are best left to licensed and qualified pest professionals. "Pests, such as mice and insects, can transmit diseases and cause severe allergic reactions. Inhaling fumes from dead mice or their droppings can cause headaches, fever, nausea and diarrhea. That's why we strongly encourage people to call an expert at the first sign of a pest infestation," says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). However, weeding through the list of pest-control professionals can be a challenge. Some door-to-door pest experts will offer a free home inspection that leads to all sorts of costly treatments and lengthy procedures. Henriksen offers the following tips on finding a trustworthy professional control agent: * Always deal with a qualified and licensed pest management company. Consider asking to see the license or other credentials of the pest control professional who comes to solve your pest problem. * Ask friends and neighbors to recommend pest control companies, and find out how satisfied they were with the service. * If large sums of money are required, get bids from several pest control companies to get the best deal. * Look into professionals that are members of national, state or local pest management associations like the NPMA. * Ask plenty of questions about the extent of your pest problem, how it's to be treated and the work needed so there aren't any unwelcome surprises on your bill. * Find out if the pest management company has liability insurance to cover any damages to your house or furnishings during the extermination process. * If your purchase comes with a guarantee, know explicitly what it covers, how long it lasts and whether any action is required to keep it in effect. Get more information about pest management issues at www.pestworld.org -- including pest prevention, identifying an infestation and how to find a pest professional.

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Take a Break From Home Improvement, Chores
(NewsUSA) - For the young homeowner, each year presents a new set of home improvement projects. The year 2012 is no different. As each task -- from kitchen remodeling to hardwood floor installation -- is completed, you can feel the momentum building. Inching your way ever closer to the ultimate dream-home goal, you keep pressing. But as any doctor will tell you, too much of one thing is rarely good. That's why 2012 is the year to supplement your home improvement pace with some fun filled activities designed to reduce stress and reinvigorate that designer spirit. Here are five ideas that can help you feel renewed while you continue your home improvement dream: 1. Get out of the house. Whether you are simply going for a walk or taking a weekend camping trip with the family, some time away from your canvas can rejuvenate those creative juices. Trips to art galleries can be especially helpful as new themes spark creative ideas that make your home improvement job more enjoyable. 2. Watch a funny movie. Sometimes all you need is a good laugh to rebuild your spirits and relax your tired brain. The latest comedy from Seven Arts, "The Pool Boys," stars Matthew Lillard ("Scream," "The Descendants"), Brett Davern (MTV's "Awkward."), Efren Ramirez ("Napoleon Dynamite," "Eastbound & Down"), Rachel Lefevre ("Twilight, New Moon," CBS's "A Gifted Man"), and Hollywood's favorite comedian, Tom Arnold. Learn more about "The Pool Boys" movie and see the R-rated trailer at www.ThePoolBoysMovie.com. The movie is currently playing "On Demand" from your local cable provider and premieres on computers, mobile phones, tablet computers and DVD. 3. Start a weekly game night. If you have a family, board games are a great way to strengthen that bond. If you are a single bachelor, grab some cards and poker chips. A Texas hold 'em poker night will be a great way to ease some stresses and can also bring some buddies who can help with larger projects in your house. 4. Keep up with your favorite hobby. Even if you think that your home improvement project is your hobby, you need to find something else to take your mind off of it for a while. 5. Have a party. Break up your home improvement projects into weekly tasks. As each task is completed, throw yourself a small bash to celebrate. When the festivities subside, regroup and refocus.

Mon, 5 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST