Keeping your chimney clean not only ensures a cleaner burning fire, it is a safety precaution as well. If you burn a resin-y wood like pine, then creosote, a rather nasty, oily material, can accumulate on the chimney walls. When enough builds up, it becomes a fire hazard. Even if it doesn’t burst into flames, it can make for an unpleasant and smoky fire. Many people figure … [Read more...] about The basics of chimney cleaning and maintenance
Heating & Cooling
Changing direction: your ceiling fan’s heating power
If your ceiling fan only sees action during the summer months, you are not taking full advantage of this energy-saving appliance. Although a fan is mainly used to cool a room, it is also effective as a heating tool. The key to using your fan in the winter is changing its rotating direction. Instead of forcing air down to cool, it is forced up against the ceiling to drive warm … [Read more...] about Changing direction: your ceiling fan’s heating power
Insulating your windows for winter weather
Windows are supposed to be airtight, but there are times when you can’t help but feel cold air seeping in. Though most of us don’t have thousands to spend on upgrading our windows to energy-efficient models, it doesn’t mean we have to suffer. Thankfully, there are some budget-friendly items perfect for insulating your windows and keeping the winter chill … [Read more...] about Insulating your windows for winter weather
Furnace maintenance and the dangers of carbon monoxide
During winter, colder temperatures bring families indoors to enjoy the warmth of a heated home. Unfortunately, each year more than 20,000 people are sickened by carbon monoxide emitted from their furnaces. Tragically, carbon monoxide poisoning kills more than 400 people a year. Keeping your furnace in good repair will prevent the colorless and odorless gas from harming you and … [Read more...] about Furnace maintenance and the dangers of carbon monoxide
Wiring the house: how the Nest Learning Thermostat automates heat and AC
The Nest Learning Thermostat has introduced innovation to the homeowners’ arena, automating the entire house and regulating the AC and heating. The thermostat, $249, has earned the Editors’ Choice designation for home automation devices because of its state-of-the-art qualities. The Nest sports a unique design, featuring a brushed metal finish and a simple domed style that … [Read more...] about Wiring the house: how the Nest Learning Thermostat automates heat and AC
