Understanding Your Heating System

Before delving into cost-saving measures, it’s essential to understand your current heating system. Most UK homes use a central heating system, typically powered by a gas boiler. The efficiency of your heating system plays a significant role in how much energy you consume and, consequently, your heating bills.

Regular Maintenance and Upgrades

Regular maintenance of your heating system is crucial. Ensure that your boiler and radiators are serviced annually by a qualified technician. This not only ensures efficiency but also prolongs the lifespan of your heating system.

If your boiler is old and inefficient, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. You might wonder even, how to get a boiler on finance? Many companies offer financing options to spread the cost over time, making it a viable option for many households.

Insulation: The First Line of Defence

One of the most effective ways to reduce heating costs is to improve your home’s insulation. Proper insulation keeps the warmth in and the cold out, reducing the need for continuous heating.

Loft and Wall Insulation

Investing in loft insulation can significantly reduce heat loss, as a substantial amount of heat is lost through the roof. Similarly, cavity wall insulation is another effective measure, particularly in older homes where wall insulation might be lacking.

Draught Proofing

Draught proofing is a simple yet effective way to prevent heat loss. Seal gaps around doors, windows, and floorboards. This is a relatively low-cost measure that can lead to noticeable reductions in heating bills.

Smart Heating Controls

Advancements in technology have brought forward smart heating controls, which allow for more precise management of home heating.

Programmable Thermostats

A programmable thermostat lets you set specific temperatures for different times of the day. You can lower the temperature when you’re out and program it to warm up the house before you return. This prevents unnecessary heating and can lead to significant savings.

Smart Radiator Valves

Smart radiator valves give you the control to adjust the temperature in individual rooms. This means you can heat the rooms you use most while keeping others at a lower temperature.

Alternative Heating Methods

Exploring alternative heating methods can offer cost-effective solutions while also reducing your carbon footprint.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. They work by extracting heat from the outside air or ground and are much more efficient than traditional boilers. The initial investment is higher, but they offer significant savings in the long run.

Solar Panels

Solar panels can be used to generate electricity or heat water, reducing reliance on the grid. In the UK, you can also benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), earning money back for the electricity you export to the grid.

Behavioural Changes

Simple behavioural changes can also contribute to reducing heating costs.

Reducing Thermostat Settings

Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can significantly reduce your energy consumption without impacting your comfort.

Utilising Curtains and Blinds

Closing curtains and blinds at dusk helps retain heat. Open them during the day to let in natural warmth and light.

Conclusion

Effectively heating your home without breaking the bank requires a combination of system maintenance, insulation, smart controls, alternative heating methods, and behavioural adjustments. By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home during the UK winters while keeping your heating costs under control. Remember, small changes can lead to big savings over time.

The post How to Effectively Heat Your Home Without Breaking the Bank appeared first on .

From functional to decorative models, we’ll explain what features you should look out for when making that big purchase and how these factors will influence your decision-making process. Whether it’s for single or multiple rooms, find out how to get exactly what you need with our advice!

Identify the size and type of radiators you need for your home

When it comes to finding the right radiators for your home, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll need to determine the size of your space, as well as how much heat is required to keep it comfortable.

A general rule of thumb is that larger rooms will need larger radiators, but it’s also important to consider any insulation or draft issues that may affect the amount of heat needed. Additionally, you’ll want to determine what type of radiator is best for your home.

There are several options available, including standard panel radiators, column radiators, and electric radiators, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. By taking the time to identify the size and type of radiators you need, you can ensure that your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.

Find out the average temperatures in your local area and select a radiator to match this.

Keeping your home warm during the colder months is essential for staying comfortable and healthy. However, it’s important to find the right radiator that fits your heating needs.

Before selecting a radiator, it’s crucial to determine the average temperatures in your local area. This information will help you choose the appropriate radiator to match your heating requirements. Whether you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or mild temperature fluctuations, there is a radiator that can provide you with the ideal level of warmth for your home.

So, take the time to research and find the perfect radiator for your specific climate, and enjoy a cozy home all winter long.

Choose between traditional and contemporary radiators.

Choosing the right radiator for your home can be quite a daunting task, especially with so many varieties available in the market.

Traditional Radiators

Traditional radiators are one of the most common and recognizable types of radiators. They are often found in older homes and buildings but can still be used in modern interiors for a more classic look. There are several distinct features of traditional radiators that make them a popular choice.

One of the defining characteristics of traditional radiators is their material. They are typically made from cast iron, which is a durable and strong material that can withstand high temperatures. This makes traditional radiators an excellent choice for heating large spaces, such as living areas, lobbies, and offices.

In terms of appearance, traditional radiators have a classic and elegant aesthetic. They are often quite ornate, with intricate details and a vintage feel. This makes them a great addition to period homes, as well as homes that are trying to create a more traditional look and feel.

Traditional radiators can be painted in any desired color, making them versatile and complementary to various interior design styles. It’s also possible to customize the finish of the radiator to fit in with the overall aesthetic of the room.

Overall, traditional radiators offer a classic, elegant, and practical heating option for any home or building. With their high-quality materials, ornate design, and even heat distribution, they are an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a warm and welcoming environment in their space.

Contemporary Radiators

Contemporary radiators are designed with modern aesthetics and engineering in mind. They are a great choice for those looking for a functional and unique take on heating solutions and are gaining popularity in many homes and commercial properties.

One of the key features of modern designer radiators is the use of materials that are more modern than cast iron, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or glass. These materials are lightweight and durable and offer sleek finishes that are perfect for modern decor styles.

In terms of design, contemporary radiators often emphasize sleek lines and geometric shapes, which can create an interesting visual impact in any room. They also come in various styles such as vertical, horizontal, and slimline, making it easy to find one that fits the specific space’s requirements. While traditional radiators can be painted to match a particular color scheme, contemporary radiators usually come in a variety of finishes, such as brushed, polished, or matte, which gives them their distinctive look and feel.

Contemporary radiators are a popular choice not only for their style but also for their functionality. Advanced engineering and technology mean that contemporary radiators can be highly efficient, offering energy savings while still providing excellent heating performance. Many contemporary radiators are also designed to be eco-friendly, making them a great choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability.

Like traditional radiators, contemporary radiators can be used in a variety of settings, such as homes, offices, apartments, and larger commercial spaces. Because of their size and shape options, they can fit seamlessly into a room and be installed in a variety of configurations.

Consider the energy efficiency rating of each radiator

When it comes to choosing the perfect radiator for your space, it’s important to consider the energy efficiency rating of each option. This rating will give you a good indication of how much energy the radiator will use and how much it will cost you in the long run.

While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, a higher energy efficiency rating will actually save you money on your energy bill over time. Plus, choosing an eco-friendly option can also help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

So, take the time to research and compare the energy efficiency ratings of different radiators to find the perfect one for your home or office.

Measure the available space for radiators and purchase accordingly

Choosing the right radiators for your home is essential to keeping your space warm and cozy. One important factor to consider is the amount of space available for the radiators. It’s important to measure the space accurately to ensure that you purchase radiators that will fit properly and efficiently heat the room.

A cramped or crowded radiator can hinder its ability to function adequately, while a radiator that is too small for the space may not provide enough warmth. By taking the time to measure your available space and selecting appropriately sized radiators, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable and toasty home all winter long.

Get professional advice about installation to save time and energy trying to do it yourself.

When it comes to installing something new in your home, it can be tempting to try and tackle the project on your own. However, the truth is that DIY projects can quickly become overwhelming and time-consuming. That’s why it’s important to get professional advice and guidance when it comes to installation. Not only will this save you time and energy, but it will also ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.

Whether you’re adding a new fixture to your bathroom or installing a new appliance in your kitchen, consulting with an expert can make all the difference. So why waste your precious time and energy when you can trust a professional to handle the job for you?

Conclusion

Radiators can be a great way to heat your house and save money on energy bills. You can get the perfect radiator for your home by assessing the size and type you need, checking the average temperatures in your area, picking either traditional or contemporary designs, considering their energy efficiency rating, measuring how much space they will take up and finally taking professional advice before installing them.

All of these steps will make sure you get the most cost effective and aesthetically pleasing radiators for your home!

The post Choosing the Right Radiators For Your Home appeared first on .

Major Leaks Repair

While water leaks may appear to be a minor issue, they can quickly become something much more serious that can cause extensive damage to property and even potential health hazards. DIY enthusiasts should always contact a professional plumbing company for major leaks. The experts have the tools and expertise to quickly identify the source of a leak, repair any broken pipes, or replace faulty valves. If a major water leak is left for a long time, it can cause unwanted flooding in the home, leading to costly repair bills and potentially hazardous mold growth.

Gas Line Installations or Repairs

Installing gas lines requires accuracy and precision, since even a tiny mistake could lead to serious consequences such as leaks or explosions. Gas lines must be installed according to local codes to pass inspection by your city or county government. For this reason, any installation or repairs on gas lines should only be performed by licensed professionals who know what they’re doing when working with this type of material safely and accurately.

Dewatering

Dewatering involves removing excess water from clogged or flooded areas in basements, crawl spaces, and other locations. It also requires specialized pumps and other equipment to safely remove the water without damaging your property. When dealing with unwanted discharge, working with licensed pumping services is vital. Not only will they have the necessary equipment, but their expertise will ensure you comply with all local regulations for wastewater discharge. The dewatering specialists have the training and experience to properly install pumps, sump pits, and other necessary equipment.

Water Heater

Water heaters are complex equipment and require specialized knowledge and training for proper installation and repair. Attempting to work on a water heater yourself can be dangerous due to electric shocks, explosions, and fires if not handled properly. The experts at plumbing companies have the credentials, experience, and tools needed to do the job safely. Not only will they ensure that the water heater is installed correctly, but they can also provide quick repairs or periodic maintenance if needed.

Sewer Line Installation and Repair

Installation of new sewer lines requires digging trenches, connecting pipes, and installing the correct fittings. If there’s an issue with existing lines, it could be caused by tree roots, corrosion, or misalignment. Sewer line issues such as blockages, clogs, and backups are best left to the pros. They contain bacteria-filled wastewater that is hazardous to your health and must be handled cautiously. A professional plumber has the necessary protective gear and equipment to handle this type of job without putting themselves at risk.

Plumbing companies are equipped with licensed and experienced staff with the knowledge and tools needed for any plumbing installation or repairs. Whether you’re dealing with a water heater, gas lines, dewatering, or major leaks, the experts guarantee your job is done quickly and correctly. Contacting a professional plumbing company for all your home plumbing needs will ensure you get the best results without any potential risks.

The post Plumbing Tasks You Should Leave to The Professionals appeared first on .

So the next question is: do you have an energy efficient furnace in your home? If your house was built after 1990, you might have, although it may only be a mid-efficiency unit. However, most Canadian homes that were built between 1950 and 1970 have standard gas furnaces that are not energy efficient furnaces at all. Those built during the next decade were generally rated as having mid-efficiency. Since 2010, only high-efficiency furnaces have been available in Canada, so if you have a new house, you furnace will be highly efficient.

The difference between standard gas furnaces and those with high efficiency

When it comes to measuring the energy efficiency of furnaces, we need to establish what percentage of fuel used is turned into heat. This is measured as a percentage by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). The higher the AFUE, the more energy efficient the furnace is.

Standard gas furnaces installed during the 20th century had an AFUE of about 60% – meaning that 40% of the fuel used was wasted. That is nearly half of it! Mid-efficient furnaces were an improvement, measuring between 78% and 82%. But high-efficiency furnaces need to be at very least 90% efficient, or higher. The more efficient it is, the more you will save.

High-efficiency furnaces are also a lot quieter than other types, and they have the ability to maintain a much more constant temperature.

How high-efficiency furnaces work

High-efficiency furnaces normally use a condensing process to work and they have two heat exchangers. These are able to draw sufficient heat from the combustion gases for the moisture in the gases to condense and then release as usable heat. The natural gas condensate, that must be removed to allow the heat transfer to occur, is piped out of the house. With high-efficiency furnaces, the pipe leads to a floor drain and the exhaust gases are vented out of a side wall. This means you don’t need a chimney, and there isn’t a risk of poisonous carbon monoxide leaking.

How a furnace can improve energy efficiency in your home

Since a furnace can account for as much as 60% of the energy consumed in a typical Canadian home during winter, it stands to reason that if you don’t have an energy efficient furnace you should consider making the switch. Switching to a high-efficiency furnace can save up to 35% on your heating bills. In addition it will radically reduce the gas emissions from your home and in that way help you to reduce your carbon footprint and live a greener life.

But it is also important to ensure that the furnace you install is suitable for your house. Very often furnaces produce considerably more heat than the house requires, and this in itself reduces energy efficiency.

How to assess the right size for your new high-efficiency furnace

A good heating contractor will be able to do a home heat loss calculation to help you make this decision. What the contractor will do is to assess how many BTUs (British thermal units, which is the measure of energy used) your furnace should be in relation to your house. The size is determined by what is termed a “total building envelope heat loss”. But the level of insulation in your house and its air tightness will also need to be considered. If there are places where heat is leaking out, for instance through the roof or through badly fitting window frames, these should be plugged to ensure the furnace operates to peak energy efficiency.

Before you go ahead and have a new furnace installed though, find out if you qualify for provincial and/or federal grants. Chances are you do.

Where to find a new high-efficiency furnace

You need to find both a good quality furnace and a qualified installer that will fit it for you. You could start out at the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada web site (www.hrai.ca) and ask advice from contractors. Alternatively you could look for a furnace and then find a contractor – or find a system or product from a company that does the installation and will give you all the support you need.

Two major North American companies that manufacture gas furnaces are United Technology (www.utc.com) that produce a number of brands including Carrier, Bryant, Heil, Tempstar and the Comfortmaker brands, and Goodman (www.goodmanmfg.com) that produces Janitrol and Amana. Others include Rheem (the Rudd brand), American Standard (Trane) and Lennox (from Armstrong).

Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems (www.bryant.com), an early US company, was originally founded by Mr. Charles Bryant in 1904. While they initially manufactured some of the earliest gas-fired boilers, today the brand features some of today’s most sophisticated heating systems, including both oil and high-efficiency gas furnaces.

Trane (www.trane.com) is a US company that was launched by a Norwegian plumber who invented a low-pressure heating system that he called the Trane Vapo Heating System. Then his son, Reuben, a mechanical engineer, invented a convector radiator. That was just the beginning, but way back in 1923 it gave the Trane Company a head start, and they haven’t looked back. Today Trane employs more than 29,000 people and does business in more than 100 countries. They manufacture in 29 locations worldwide. Residential furnaces are just one of the products they make – and these are amongst the world’s most energy efficient units.

At the end of the day, when you go shopping for a high-efficiency furnace, check its Canadian EnerGuide label to see how much energy the product uses. ENERGY STAR symbols will also help you make a more savvy choice.

And don’t forget the filter!

How to optimize the efficiency of your high-efficiency natural gas furnace

All furnaces have a filter and this should, in itself, improve energy efficiency. A good filter system will not only protect the furnace, it will also reduce your exposure to air-borne particles that can negatively affect your health and cause allergies. These include:

• normal household dust
• dust-type particles that result from a variety of household activities ranging from cooking and doing laundry to burning candles and smoking
• human and pet dander (which amounts to hair and skin flakes from you, your family and the animals you share your home with)
• air particles from outdoors that filter their way inside

You will, though, need to make sure that the filter you are using has the ability to competently reduce these particles. Don’t take this for granted.

It is also up to you to replace the furnace filter every couple of months. If you keep going with a dirty filter, this will reduce the flow of air and it will result in the furnace taking longer than necessary to heat your home.

It is also important to keep the furnace itself clean, well lubricated, properly adjusted and regularly maintained. If you care for it and maintain it, you will find that you will use less energy and that it will in fact cost you less to operate.

It is also good practice to lower the thermostat on your furnace to about 4 to 5 °C at night while you are sleeping or when there isn’t anyone at home.

The post Energy Efficient Furnaces – Reducing Your Gas Bill appeared first on .

There are various types of hot water heaters, and different ways in which they are heated – by electricity, gas, oil or solar power. But what they all have in common is the ability to heat cold water supplied by your local authority or municipality so that you can have hot water on demand when you shower, bath or wash clothes or dirty dishes.

While some water heaters don’t have tanks to store the water, most do.

Tank water heaters

Tank water heaters literally store water in a tank and heat the water in the tank. There are a variety of types (or models) that use the full spectrum of heating sources – electricity, gas, oil and solar.

Generally the way tank water heaters work is that as hot water is drawn from the top of the tank, cold water refills the tank from the bottom. If the heater is switched on, the water will be constantly heated. Of course nowadays we are all a lot more aware of the need for energy efficiency, and so we don’t keep our water heaters switched on all the time. A growing number of people are also realizing that some water heaters are more energy efficient than others.

Typically, an energy-efficient storage tank water heater will have at least one of these features:

• insulation that will prevent loss of heat through the external walls of the tank (building the tank into a covered space and laying insulation material over it also helps),
• a superior heat exchanger that is able to transfer more heat from the energy source to the water,
• factory-installed heat traps that are designed to prevent hot water flowing out of the tank when it isn’t wanted, but allow water to flow into the tank.

There are also additional design features that make gas-fired storage tank water heaters more energy efficient, including:

• electronic ignition rather than an old-fashioned pilot light that stays on continuously, using energy (however little),
• a powered exhaust system,
• a mechanism that controls and reduces heat loss via the flue vent,
• condensing heat exchangers that are much more efficient than other types.

There are also new technology oil-fired water heaters that have high tech burners that improve energy efficiency.

Uniongas (www.uniongas.com) manufactures natural gas tank water heaters with three different venting options:

• direct vents, that don’t require a chimney,
• power vents, that don’t need a chimney but use an electrically powered fan,
• conventional vents, that do need a chimey.

Solar water heaters also use tanks, but the water may be heated in a collector or a special liquid in the collector transfers the heat to the tank. Because weather conditions do affect the efficiency of solar water heaters to warm the water, they are often used in conjunction with an electric element that kicks in when needed – especially in winter.

Instant water heaters

These are water heaters that don’t incorporate a tank and they only heat water when it is required. They are generally small appliances that are fitted so we can get instant hot water from a sink or basin that is not connected to a regular tank water heater.

The most basic type of instant water heater either has an electric element or a gas burner. Low-mass water heaters use a different, more advanced technology and they are capable of supplying a lot more hot water than the traditional type of instant water heater. These are usually gas-fired and they have both an electronic ignition and a power exhaust. They can be connected to some sort of an external storage tank if this is required.

Stiebel Eltron from GO Tankless (www.gotankless.com) is a popular make of electric tankless water heater in North America. Their primary claim to fame is advanced flow control technology that automatically adjusts the water flow rate.

Uniongas manufactures natural gas tankless water heaters.

Energy efficient water heaters

When it comes to selecting a hot water heater, it makes sense to choose one that is energy efficient.

In Canada, the efficiency of electric tank water heaters is measured by what is called either “standby loss” or “rating watts loss”. While low standby loss models are clearly the most energy efficient, it is also important to choose a heater that meets the needs of you and your family. If you select one that is larger than necessary (in terms of the volume of water you use), this will result in unnecessarily increased energy costs.

Be warned that an energy efficient electric water heater will cost you more than one that isn’t highly efficient, but the quality will be better and you will benefit from improved warranties.

The efficiency of both gas and propane-fired, as well as oil-fired water heaters, is measured by an “energy factor”. High energy factors are, not surprisingly, the most efficient in terms of both tank heaters and those that do not have tanks. If you are selecting a gas tank water heater, the same warnings regarding oversized tanks applies.

Rheem (www.rheem.com) manufactures a wide range of different types of water heater. These include instant electric or “point-of-use” models, heat pump water heaters and both gas tank and tankless water heaters for homes.

The US Bradford White Corporation (www.bradfordwhite.com) offers a comprehensive selection of products including natural and propane-fired gas water heaters, oil-fired water heaters, electric water heaters, indirect water heaters, and solar water systems. Laars Heating System Company (www.laars.com) manufactures gas fired boilers and volume water heaters. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bradford White.

A.O. Smith Corporation (www.hotwater.com), which is headquartered in Wisconsin, designs and manufactures two brands of hot water heaters, GSW and John Wood (www.gsw-wh.com). GSW has both gas and electric models. John Wood, which is only available to installers, specializes in energy efficiency and has products that are ENERGY STAR rated.

In many countries there are tax rebates and other initiatives to encourage people to install solar and other energy efficient hot water heaters.

In British Columbia and Ontario homeowners are eligible for tax-free government granters when they install gas or solar water heaters or an electric heat pump hot water heater.

The post Selecting a Hot Water Heater appeared first on .

But that’s not the end of it. While air conditioning units are designed to make the interior of our homes more comfortable, they also dehumidify the air and remove unwanted particles and dust that collects in the air. In a nutshell, this is what makes the air we breathe more healthy.

So if you are shopping for a new air conditioner, it’s best to look for one that is not only energy efficient, but one that will meet all the other environmental guidelines as well.

An excellent place to start looking is at units that meet the ENERGY STAR requirements.

About ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a program that was set up as a joint venture between the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. The aim of the program is to do anything possible to reduce costs and at the same time protect the environment by using products that are energy efficient. It also aims to educate people in terms of what it means to follow energy efficient practices.

According to ENERGY STAR, with their help, Americans alone managed to save close on $18-billion on their utility bills in 2010. They also announced that during 2010 Americans managed to avoid producing greenhouse gas emissions that would have been equivalent to what 33-million cars would have produced. Add this to Canadian efforts, and in fact the efforts of people in the rest of the educated world, and you will begin to see exactly what is possible.

The idea is that by buying household products, including air conditioners, that have been endorsed by ENERGY STAR, you will save money. This is because to earn ENERGY STAR, products have to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.

So which products are recognized by ENERGY STAR? Generally speaking you will find this fact acknowledged on labels.
ENERGY STAR products

While you can look for labels on products that show they are ENERGY STAR endorsed, it is always helpful to have a starting point. Here are some pointers:

• Trane offers both cool and warm air that is clean. This American company (www.trane.com) offers a broad range of HVAC systems which will heat, ventilate, dehumidify and basically condition the air of your home or business building. The company also has products that are sold under the American Standard brand.
• General Electric – GE (http://www.geappliances.com/energy-star-appliances/room-air-conditioner.htm) has a good selection of different types of ENERGY STAR air conditioners designed to be installed either in the wall or in windows. These have high-efficiency compressors, as well as heat transfer surfaces and fan motors that are designed to help reduce consumption of energy – which relate directly to the reduction of utility costs.
• Lennox (http://www.lennox.com/products/air-conditioners/) also manufactures ENERGY STAR air conditioner, including some that are solar-ready. Efficiency ratings differ according to the various models.
• Sharp (http://www.sharpusa.com/) also produce air conditioners that meet the ENERGY STAR requirements.

And there are many, many more.

Other products with energy efficiency ratings

LG products (www.lg.com) carry the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) that shows you at a glance just how energy efficient specific air conditioners are. The higher the rating, the less the unit will cost you to operate. Basically how it works is that the EER indicates how many BTUs (which are British Thermal Units – a well established measurement of the energy needed to raise temperature) are needed every hour to draw a watt of electric power. It’s a technical rating that measures the unit’s cooling performance at the time it is working hardest.

The higher the EER, the more efficient your air conditioner is.

Heating and cooling efficiently

Having said you should look out for ENERGY STAR endorsed air conditioners, there are some other steps that you can do to make sure that the machines you are using work efficiently. For instance, regular maintenance is essential, and just as you would service and tune-up your vehicles, so too should you regularly service your air conditioner.

In particular, it is absolutely essential to check the filter monthly, particularly when the machine is working hard in summer or winter. If it looks grubby, don’t think twice, rather change it. Most filters need to be changed two to four times a year (in other words three-monthly or twice a year) although some brands, including LG claim that if you keep the filter clean you won’t need to replace them at all. If you don’t though, and they get really grubby, you are going to find that a dirty filter slows down the flow of air and in turn, the system is going to have to work harder and it probably won’t cope. If it doesn’t operate properly, the air conditioner will draw a lot more power than it needs.  Apart from this, if the filter is clean, it will prevent dirt and dust – and other pollutants – from entering and building up within the system. Not only will this prevent the machine from operating efficiently, but it will almost certainly lead to early system failure.

ENERGY STAR also recommends installing a thermostat that you can program. This is an ideal option for those who spend time away from home. In fact the agency says that by using a programmable thermostat you can save as much as $180 annually in energy costs.

Another way you can make heating and cooling systems more efficient is to seal cooling and heating ducts. These are the ducts that move air to and from heat pumps, air furnaces, and central air conditioners which so often waste an incredible amount of energy. By sealing the ducts adequately, you can save as much as 20% on energy costs. Generally the place to start is in attics or smaller roof spaces, as well as unheated (usually unused) basements and garages. Once the ducts have been sealed, make sure you add good insulation to ensure the system doesn’t get hot in summer and cold in winter.

Lastly remember that bigger is not necessarily the best. In fact if you buy an air conditioner that is too big for the area you need to warm or cool, it is likely to waste energy AND it may well be less effective.

The post Energy Efficient Air Conditioners appeared first on .

There are a number of issues that you need to consider when looking at wood versus gas fireplaces.

Most companies that supply fireplaces offer a choice, not only of fuel-type, but also in terms of design and appearance. They may also be built in or freestanding, whether they are gas or wood-fuelled.

Of course there are other factors to consider as well, including:

• the intensity of heat that the fireplace will produce
• the emissions that fuel will produce

Freestanding fireplaces

Freestanding fireplaces are generally manufactured in the form of freestanding stoves. Popular manufacturers include Pacific Energy, HearthStone and Jøtul.

Pacific Energy (www.pacificenergy.net) is a Canadian company that offers both gas and wood options. Their flagship products include a range of traditional-style glass-fronted wood stoves made of enameled porcelain that has been fused to steel. Other brands they produce include Alderlea cast iron stoves, True North wood stoves that are more down-to-earth and plain than their traditional range, and Warmland pellet stoves,

HearthStone (www.hearthstonestoves.com) is another North American company that offers gas and wood options. Their freestanding models range from traditional stoves with shaped feet, to clean-lined contemporary designs that stand firmly on the floor. The company also manufactures freestanding stoves that are designed to burn pellets made from sawdust, chips and bark that are by-products of the milling operation, as well as the contemporary EuroCollection range.

Jøtul (jotul.com) has been making cast iron fireplaces since the mid-19th century, and today they offer both traditional and contemporary designs. A world-leading Norwegian manufacturer, the company now has subsidiaries in various parts of the world, including the USA. Their products are available in Canada from companies like Northwest Stoves (www.northweststoves.ca), which is the exclusive distributor in British Columbia, Alberta and the Yukon for Jøtul, HearthStone, Pacific energy, RSF Energy, Kingsman and Scan (a Danish manufacturer) products.

RSF Energy (http://www.icc-rsf.com/en/) produces open hearth fireplaces that burn wood using 21st century “clean burning technology”. The company also manufactures innovative venting products including ICC chimneys for both gas and wood-burning fireplaces that are tight-fitting and easy to assemble.

Built in fireplaces

Most of the companies that manufacture freestanding stoves also make inserts that can be built into the wall or at the base of a chimney. Similarly these inserts may be fuelled either with wood or with gas.

Pacific Energy, for example, specializes in wood-burning inserts, while both HearthStone and Jøtul make gas and wood fireplaces.

If you live in an old home that has a fireplace that was blocked up sometime during its life, you may even consider unblocking it and installing an energy-efficient insert that burns either wood or gas.

An advantage of a built-in fireplace is that it becomes an architectural feature rather than a heating accessory – especially if you incorporate a mantelpiece.

Maintenance and price of fuel

There are a number of other issues to consider when weighing up the pros and cons of wood versus gas fireplaces.

If maintenance and cleaning are an issue, you will be more likely to opt for a gas-fired stove or fireplace than one that is fuelled with wood. Undoubtedly gas is cleaner, but gas is more expensive than wood.

Another factor in favor of natural gas is that you don’t need space to store it. Wood, on the other hand, can take up a considerable amount of storage space.

Heat intensity

The capacity of a fireplace, stove or furnace to produce heat is measured in British thermal units or BTUs.

The BTU capacity of wood is higher than gas, making wood a good choice in terms of fuel. However gas stoves and fireplaces may be thermostatically controlled, making the heat intensity adjustable. You decide how much heat you want, and then set the unit accordingly. Some gas units even work with a remote control so you don’t have to move to adjust them.

The eco factor

There is no doubt that some fireplaces are more environmentally friendly than others. Factors to consider here include how economical and clean burning the fireplace is. The efficiency rating of the fireplace is another important consideration.

According to the Wood Heat Policy Institute (WHPI), which is a group funded by North American wood stove manufacturers, “firewood is a renewable energy source like wind, solar and hydroelectric power”.

Providing you use wood from renewable forests, firewood, they say, is a green energy resource. Also, when you burn wood, it does not have the same effect on the environment as the fossil fuels – oil, gas and coal – do. It is, of course, the carbon the fossil fuels (buried millions of years ago) contain that is oxidized to form CO₂ (carbon dioxide), which is the most threatening greenhouse gas. Even though wood releases carbon when it is burnt, it doesn’t have the same effect since trees absorb CO₂ as they grow. In fact, when trees die and decompose in the forest, experts say that they release the same amount of carbon as they do when they are burned as fuel.

The rotting process results in slow oxidation, while combustion in wood-burning stove results inn fast oxidation, with heat becoming the main by-product of the process.

“Trees can be thought of as big batteries,” says WHPI director, John Gulland, “because they take energy from the sun and store it in the wood. Burning wood converts the stored energy into heat.”

The Institute’s argument focuses, though, on new-age wood stoves and fireplaces that have been designed to be airtight, unlike the old type of wood stoves that they concede wasted wood and created a lot of smoke and pollution. The type of stove manufactured by companies like Pacific Energy on the other hand, generate only about 10% of the quantity of smoke-pollution and burn less than a third the quantity of lumber.

As the folks at HearthStone point out: “Environmental concerns and strict EPA regulations have helped wood stoves really come into their own.”

EPA-certified stoves must be able to burn 72% to 82% more cleanly than the old-type wood burners otherwise they don’t achieve certification. For this reason, the reputation they used to have as a “dirty fuel” is now no longer valid, they say.

But not everyone agrees. Just the other day a new bylaw was introduced in the Montreal suburb of Hampstead in Quebec that has banned the installation of new wood stoves, fireplace inserts and anything in fact that burns wood or wood pellets. Those already installed are safe for now, but must be removed no later than November 3, 2015. Their reasoning is that wood stoves pollute the environment and create smog. So far other local authorities have not followed suit, it seems because they don’t believe that the idea is either enforceable or particularly reasonable. But if you happen to live in Hampstead, irrespective of all the debate around wood versus gas fireplaces, you’re simply going to have to go with gas!

The post Wood versus Gas Fireplaces – Which is Best? appeared first on .

Generally on demand water heaters are considerably smaller than regular water heaters – largely because they don’t incorporate a tank. This reduces the need for lengthy pipe work and makes them particularly useful for sinks or basins that are not located within a kitchen or bathroom where most plumbing pipe work is located. They are also ideal for heating hot tubs, because these are generally located away from normal plumbing pipes and fittings. They may, of course, also be used in kitchens, bathrooms and in laundries, depending on your needs.

Traditionally instant, tankless water heaters were specifically designed for point-of use. But today there are an increasing number of units available that will heat water for the whole house. So the hot water is available “on demand”, but not necessarily at the point of use.

The most basic instant water heaters have either an electric element that heats the water, or a gas burner of some sort. The most advanced type is the low-mass water heater which uses different technology and is able to supply considerably more hot water than other types. These hi-tech water heaters are usually gas-fired and they incorporate an electronic ignition as well as a power exhaust. They have the capacity to be connected to an external storage tank, making them more versatile than the more traditional types.

Some electric products

Stiebel Eltron from GO Tankless (www.gotankless.com) makes leading edge tankless water heaters that are very popular in North America. Their units feature sensors and microprocessors that not only automatically adjust the water flow rate and pressure, but also the temperature of the water.  The company maintains that their heaters can enable you to cut your water heating costs by as much as 50%, which clearly makes them “green”.

When a hi-tech Stiebel Eltron tankless water heater is activated – by turning on the water faucet or tap – the flow sensor recognizes that the water is running and its heating elements go on. Voila! When you turn off the faucet, the unit switches off and immediately stops using energy. Manufactured according to high German engineering standards, these units come in a high quality aluminum case and they have heating chambers that are made from copper.

Bosch (www.boschhotwater.net) makes two electric tankless water heaters designed specifically for the North American region. Both branded PowerStar, they are designed for all uses. One model provides 3.7 gallons per minute at 105 °F, either to two sinks at the same time, or to a shower or a bathtub. Alternatively it provides 3 gallons per minute at 115 °F to two sinks or to the dishwasher. The other model is smaller and provides 2.3 gallons per minute at 105 °F to a shower, bathtub or washing machine. Alternatively it delivers slightly less (2 gallons) at a slightly higher temperature (at 115 °F) if connected to a sink or dishwasher. The smaller model is not recommended in areas where the average annual ground water temperature does not rise above 60 °F – which eliminates all but the southern-most states in the US and all of Canada.

Bosch also produces an Italian-designed mini-tank point-of-use water heater that incorporates a glass-lined tank.

Gas products

Gas-fired instant water heaters generally provide a much higher flow rate than those powered by electricity. But they won’t all enable you to use more than one appliance at a time. The answer here is to install more than one on demand heater so that you can have a shower or bath when you are washing dishes or clothes. Even buying two units will guarantee that you will save bucks.

However, there is a down side. Gas-fired unites can also waste energy, particularly those that have a pilot light that burns all the time. The costs of operating pilot lights do vary though and you can usually ascertain this figure before you buy your gas water heater. If the manufacturer cannot give you this information, think twice before buying it. Some models have intermittent ignition devices that don’t stay on all the time, alternatively you might consider simply turning off the pilot light and relighting it when you need it. This is, after all, an”instant” water heater.

Uniongas (www.uniongas.com) produce tankless water heaters that use natural gas. Like electric water heaters, when the faucet is turned on, a flow switch is triggered that activates, in this case the burner that heats the cold water. The water heats quickly to the required temperature, and then stops heating as soon as the faucet is turned off.

Bosch manufactures several tankless gas water heaters. At least two of these are certified by ENERGY STAR and both of these enable you to run at least two appliances that use hot water at the same time. These heaters are larger than their electric unit counterparts, and they feature electronic ignition.

Takagi (www.takagi.com) also manufactures gas supply water heaters. A well-established Japanese company that entered the North American market more than 15 years ago, the water heating units feature water sensors that detect the flow of water into the unit. This makes them automatically ignite so that the water that is circulating through the coils in the heat exchanger instantly heat the water – in only a fraction of a minute. When the hot water faucet is turned off, the unit shuts down immediately.

Save energy with instant water heaters

If you aren’t convinced that tankless, on demand water heaters are not the way to go, perhaps the US Department of Energy will persuade you otherwise.

“Demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters provide hot water only as it is needed. They don’t produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save you money.”

That’s what we already told you!

Cost

A good quality demand or instant water heater is likely to cost you more than most conventional tank storage water heaters. But generally you will find that both energy and operating costs are considerably lower.

Long term it is certainly an option to consider.

The post On Demand Water Heaters – Pros and Cons appeared first on .

According to the Alberta-based C3, a non-profit organization that is working to transform the way energy is used, showers account for about 22% of all the water used (hot and cold), and as much as two thirds of just the hot water used, in the average Canadian home. A family of four that takes short, five-minute showers uses about 70,000 liters or 15,400 gallons of water every year. If you shower for 10 minutes, you can double your water usage in a flash. But, says C3, by spending between $8 and $90 (depending on the shower head you choose to fit), you can cut your hot water usage by more than a third.

Choose the right shower head

There are various types of shower heads that are designed to save water, including low flow shower heads and low flow, high pressure shower heads that don’t use the same flow restrictors as the original low flow shower heads. These not only reduce the amount of water that you use while showering, they also limit the amount of energy used to heat the water – simply because you are using less water. So you won’t only save water, you’ll also save money.

Generally, water efficient shower heads look pretty much the same as most ordinary old shower heads, but they restrict the flow of water in some way. While a regular shower head will use up to 45 liters or 10 gallons of water per minute, even one of the early water-saving shower heads will use a maximum of half of this. Today, most have a water flow that is as little as 9 to 14 liters (2 to 3 gallons) of water per minute. Some new models claim maximum flow rates of as little as a half a gallon or about 2 or 3 liters. It just goes to show that the improvement in the past two decades has been phenomenal.

However, C3 warns that you shouldn’t trust claims of energy efficient, low flow, water saving or even water efficient shower heads without making certain they are true. Check the packaging to see what flow rate is specified. If nothing is specified, rather make another choice.

As a matter of interest, C3 doesn’t consider a shower head with a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute to be water or energy efficient. You should be looking for a maximum flow rate of no more than 1.5 or 1.6 gallons a minute, they say.

One of the brands that this organization recommends is the Californian-based company, Bricor.

Some interesting brands

Bricor (www.bricor.com) uses a patented VACUUM flow “booster” valve for its shower heads, which aerate and compact the water under pressure. As it leaves the shower head, the aerated water expands and vibrates. This creates a powerful shower stream of water at a very low flow rate – they say 1.25 gallons per minute or less. This helps to solve low water pressure problems that usually cause a weak stream flow. Shower performance as a whole is improved because of the intensity of the water flow, but less hot water is used, so water and effluent costs are reduced. Furthermore, because the droplets from the shower head are compacted and highly energized – which is why they seem to literally “explode” as they leave the vacuum chamber – the possibility of mineral crystals forming scale is dramatically reduced.

Another Californian company, Jet-Stream (www.jet-streamshowerhead.net) produces a 1.5 gallon per minute shower head that uses an air chamber that creates turbulence by mixing water and air. Since there is no mineral deposit build-up (for the same reasons mentioned above), the manufacturer claims the shower head is “self-cleaning”. This product carries a 20-year replacement warranty. In addition, there is a patented feature that keeps the 1.5 water volume at a constant pressure, from 15 to 120 psi (pounds per square inch) – although the average water pressure in Canadian homes is about 50 psi.

Oxygenics (www.oxygenics.ca) specialize in high performance water and energy saving shower heads. Aiming for a clean, green market, their patented new technology utilizes the Venturi principle of fluid mechanics. The water in their shower heads is pushed though a special accelerator fin that increases the velocity of the water, making it flow through the shower head more quickly, so that there is better water pressure – even though less water is in fact flowing through the mechanism. It also injects oxygen into the water to make your skin feel rejuvenated.

There is a reasonably wide range of available Oxygenics shower heads, all of which are guaranteed against clogging and carry a lifetime warranty. They even have a shower head that may be used with very low, variable water pressure. Known as the Oxygenics X-Stream model, it automatically adjusts itself using a gravity-based, free-flowing drop. There is an internal spring that expands and contracts automatically, guided by the pressure and velocity of the water. This is being heralded as “the world’s first hybrid conservation shower”! Better still, the cap is adjustable and so when you are showering, you can customize the spray pattern according to your likes and dislikes.

Evolve has patent-pending technology called ShowerStart that they have used to develop a new range of energy efficient shower heads, including a “lower-flow” model. What they have done to make water efficient shower heads is to take human nature into account. Their theory is that many people do other things while they are waiting for the shower to heat up; and during this time, gallons of water are wasted. The new Evolve shower head design stops the flow of water to a trickle as soon as the water reaches 95 °F or 35 °C. You then restart it when you are ready to start showering.

So if you looking for green products for your new home, be sure to include your shower head on your shopping list.

The post Water Efficient Shower Heads appeared first on .

This doesn’t mean we should stop flushing; on the contrary. Rather we should be more aware of the need to install water efficient toilets when we build or renovate our homes.

The thing is that toilets were not created equal – and some waste considerably more water than others.

Types of toilets and flushing systems

The water that we use to flush our toilets either comes from a cistern or sometimes it comes directly from the water supply pipe. In the early days of toilets – during the Victorian era – cisterns were positioned way above the toilet itself. A pipe connected the cistern to the loo (or toilet pan), and when the user pulled a chain attached to the cistern, a flush valve was opened. Water would then flow downwards, using the force of gravity. That is, of course, where the phrase “pull the chain” comes from, even when we are using low-level toilets with a flushing handle or buttons!

Today some old homes still have original high-level toilets, although they don’t qualify as particularly water efficient. But specialist manufacturers of Victorian-style appliances and goods produce look-alike traditional high-level toilets that are fitted with modern parts. If the cistern tank is small enough, and there is a dual-flush system, then it would probably fit the description of being “water efficient”.

Still, low-level toilets are better priced and it is this type that manufacturers have concentrated on making most water efficient. Initially the idea was to improve the flushing system so that it didn’t rely on gravity. Cisterns were still joined to the pan with a pipe, but it was (and is) a much shorter pipe. These were also the first toilets that had a flushing system that was activated by a handle.

Then close-coupled toilets were designed. Neater (because you don’t see any pipe work) and quieter (because the water doesn’t have far to flush) they were – and still are – more expensive than ordinary low-level toilets. Also, they are generally not as efficient when it comes to cleaning the pan with water from the cistern. But new technology has changed all of this.

The flushing system itself may depend on a wash-down system or a siphonic system.  The latter depends on water flowing through a U-shaped pipe that has one side longer than the other. The water is moved from one side to the other under the force of gravity. The toilet pan is emptied by means of suction and the toilet bowl is refilled with clean water.

The wash-down system, which is more usual in North America, uses the force of the flushing water to clean the toilet bowl. These have either a P-trap or an S-trap, describing the shape of the trap. Either way, they have a single trap that requires water to be flushed into the toilet bowl to remove the contents.

But how does this translate to water efficient toilets?

Water efficiency for toilets

In the early days, toilet cisterns were designed to hold a lot of water – more than 20 liters. When people began to realize how wasteful toilet cisterns were, smaller 13-liter cisterns were designed. By the mid 1990s companies were manufacturing toilets that had a water storage capacity of just 1.6 gallon or 6 liters. For those who didn’t want to, or couldn’t afford to, rip out old toilets and fit new ones, DIY articles and books told them how to reduce water capacity, for instance by putting a brick into the cistern. This effectively took up a lot of space that water would have had to fill.

At the same time, building codes were changed in both North America (specifically in the US and in Ontario) and in most parts of Europe, requiring all new homes and buildings to be fitted with 6-liter loos. These were called ultra low flush (ULF) toilets. The dual-flush toilet took water-efficiency one step further by using 6 liters of water in the cistern that can be used to flush solid waste, but (by using a second flushing mechanism) using only 3 liters to flush liquid waste.

While this technology is mandatory in several countries including Australia and Singapore, it is relatively new in North America.

Even though the installation of 6-litre toilets in new construction is not mandatory throughout Canada, many municipalities in that country have subsidized toilet replacement programs which attempt to increase the installation of water efficient toilets and reduce overall water consumption.

Research to establish which toilets are the most water efficient type

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has compared several different types of toilets in an endeavor to see which type is most water efficient and cost effective.

In a research program, they installed a total of 70 toilets:

• 56 Caroma dual-flush types,
• 14 single-flush ultra-flush made by three different manufacturers, TOTO, Niagara and Western Pottery.

Most of these toilets were installed in municipal offices, and the flush volume of the existing toilet was measured. Electronic flush counters were installed, largely to see if people found the need to flush twice (because of the 3-liter capacity). Feedback was overwhelmingly in favor of the dual-flush option (http://www.cmhc.ca/publications/en/rh-pr/tech/02-124-e.html). Furthermore a substantial water saving was achieved, with dual-flush saving up to 26% more water than single-flush 6-liter toilets.

The CMHC choice of toilets

Caroma (www.caromausa.com) is a leading manufacturer of dual-flush wash-down toilets, and they are seen as pioneers in the field of water conserving bathroom products. It was this Australian-based company that produced the first successful two-button dual flush system way back in the 1990s. Their 6/3 liter toilet has become a global standard – or at least a standard that many manufacturers worldwide now use to make eco friendly toilets.

As the company points out on its web site, what was special about their dual-flush toilets was the ability to use either all the water in the cistern, or half of it. Plus, they say, the technology is suitable for all the world’s sewerage systems without any need for modification.

TOTO toilets are made in the US (www.totousa.com) and the company is committed to sustainability. “If something can be reclaimed, recycled, or reused at a TOTO plant, it is.” For example, all grey water generated during the manufacturing operation is stored and reused, and all possible materials are recycled. Even imperfect, damaged china is crushed and recycled back into roadbed construction. If people that the company employs live in a town or district where recycling is not a reality, they are encouraged to take all recyclables to the TOTO plant for recycling.

Niagara (www.niagaraconservation.com) is also known to be a pioneer in the world of water efficient toilets. Based in both the US and Canada, the company released a new 3 liter or 0.8 gallon passive “vacuum-assist” toilet onto the market in May 2010. Reviews heralded this as “the most water-conserving of any flush toilet on the market”. While it looks like many other toilets, the Niagara Stealth has a tank-within-a-tank that minimizes the amount of water flushed.

Western Pottery (www.wpindustries.com) claims to produce “the best flush in America”. The company manufactures a range of toilets that are environmentally friendly and don’t use a lot of water.

The post Water Efficient Toilets appeared first on .