Yes!  The Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008, in conjunction with Internal Revenue Code Section 25C, allowed for tax credits for equipment of specific efficiency levels; it took effect on January 1, 2009 and was allowed to expire on December 31, 2011. Now, they’re extended both back to January 1, 2011 and forward to…

First, check your circuit breakers for a tripped switch. Note: Changing the thermostat quickly can cause a disruption. Allow 15 minutes for the compressor to automatically reset itself. Next, make sure the blower compartment door is closed. The unit will not come on if the door is open. Lastly, shrubbery around the outside unit can…

Water leaks around the house are often underestimated in their potential to cause serious damage. A trap that’s not tight, a toilet seal that’s lost its grip, or even a water line with a tiny drip too hard to see or hear, but every day it continues to wear away parts of your home, causing…

Plumbing systems are designed to prevent foul odors from entering your home by means of the trap attached to fixtures. Traps contain water to seal out foul odors; if the water seal evaporates, the odors enter the house. To solve this problem, pour a bucket of water in each trap, sink, shower and floor drain.…

Usually this results from air in the pipes.  There may be other reasons, like a loose washer, but air in the pipes is the most common cause. Turn the on the water faucet.  While it is on, turn OFF the main water valve and the water will shut off.  When you turn on the main…

This is the time of year when homeowners become most concerned with their family’s health. In recent years there has been a strong emphasis on conserving energy and therefore, homes are sealed tighter in order to prevent air from escaping. As a result, fresh air is unable to come in and indoor air contaminants become…

The foul smelling water is caused by a combination of hydrogen, sulfur, and bacteria. The magnesium anode rod installed in the tank protects the tank surface, but generates enough hydrogen to create an odor when it interacts with sulfur in the water or bacteria in the tank. Replacing the magnesium anode rod with an aluminum…

Insulating pipes and ducts that run through unheated space will result in a significant savings in your energy bill. Making sure conditioned air isn’t leaking out of your ductwork can save you on your utility bills and keep your system from running too hard. Heat escapes from bare hot-water pipes causing the water sitting in…

When purchasing an air conditioner, furnace or heat pump, always ask about its efficiency rating. This rating will tell you how efficiently the unit uses fuel (gas, electricity or oil). The most common efficiency ratings are: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): This ratio tells you the amount of cooling your system will deliver per dollar…

Absolutely not! The government extended tax credits through this year. From now until December 31, 2011 you can still claim federal tax credits when purchasing and installing a new energy efficient heating and cooling system within this year. If this is something you’re considering make sure to act soon. This will expire in December and…