Did You Know?
If every room air conditioner sold had earned the ENERGY STAR, it would prevent 900 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions annually, equivalent to the emissions from 80,000 cars.
Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. By choosing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment and taking steps to optimize its performance, you can enhance the comfort of your home while saving energy. Saving energy helps you save money on utility bills and protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change.
ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners:
* use about 10% less energy than conventional models, which could mean a savings of more than $60 over the lifetime of the unit.
* often include timers for better temperature control, allowing you to use the minimum amount of energy you need to cool your room.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
What's ENERGY STAR for Central Air Conditioning?
Did You Know?
Heating and cooling costs the average homeowner about $1,000 a year - nearly half the home's total energy bill. If your central air conditioning unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an ENERGY STAR qualified model could cut your cooling costs by 30%.
Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. By choosing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment and taking steps to optimize its performance, you can enhance the comfort of your home while saving energy. Saving energy helps you save money on utility bills and protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change.
ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioners:
* have higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) ratings, making them about 14% more efficient than standard models.
The central air conditioner also needs a blower motor – which is usually part of the furnace – to blow the cool air through the duct system. The only way to ensure that your new air conditioner performs at its rated efficiency is to replace your heating system at the same time. It’s especially recommended if your furnace is over 15 years old. If you purchase a new energy-efficient air conditioner but connect it to an older furnace and blower motor, your system will not perform to its rated efficiency.
Heating and cooling costs the average homeowner about $1,000 a year - nearly half the home's total energy bill. If your central air conditioning unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an ENERGY STAR qualified model could cut your cooling costs by 30%.
Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. By choosing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment and taking steps to optimize its performance, you can enhance the comfort of your home while saving energy. Saving energy helps you save money on utility bills and protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change.
ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioners:
* have higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) ratings, making them about 14% more efficient than standard models.
The central air conditioner also needs a blower motor – which is usually part of the furnace – to blow the cool air through the duct system. The only way to ensure that your new air conditioner performs at its rated efficiency is to replace your heating system at the same time. It’s especially recommended if your furnace is over 15 years old. If you purchase a new energy-efficient air conditioner but connect it to an older furnace and blower motor, your system will not perform to its rated efficiency.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Five Best Ceiling Fans (2)
Monte Carlo 5DI52BSD-L Discus 52-Inch Contemporary Ceiling Fan with Light Kit and Five Silver Blades, Brushed Steel
I’m mostly utilised to $250+ ceiling fan/light units, but I just put in this fan within our master bed room and am actually pleased together with the quality. For a $120+ fan it has virtually everything that a $200+ fan has as far as the look and quality of construction. The only minor issues that it lacks is the fact that out of the box the fan wobbled sightly around the higher velocity setting (it arrives with a balancing kit which I employed to resolve this difficulty). Also, the motor just isn’t perfectly silent, although it can be pretty peaceful – certainly quieter compared to sound of the wind the fan produces. Apart from those two minor things, all is well and also the price is undoubtedly reduced for what you get.
The 1 factor that you simply do not see within the photos would be the two pull-chains that dangle from opposite sides of the unit, just beneath the fan. The fan includes a 75 watt halogen light within the frosted-glass fixture. This puts out a reasonable amount of light, although it will not light up a room like a 3-bulb fixture that you see around the cheaper fan-light combos.
The fan arrived very quick, and with the free of charge shipping alternative. It seems excellent in my space and completes the remake with the space. I bought a fantastic sofa which was red vinyl with chrome arms and feet, the fan completes the space. The high quality is just as described. The air movement is far better than anticipated. Should you listen to any noise whenever you set up the fan, just verify to determine in case the wires are not sticking up and hitting the blades. It really is very quiet and cooling!! Would acquire again :)
I totally really like this fan – we place it up in our freshly redone kitchen. It is nice and tranquil as well as looks remarkable with all of our stainless steel appliances. You cannot beat the price – all in all, I’d undoubtedly suggest this fan to others.
I’m mostly utilised to $250+ ceiling fan/light units, but I just put in this fan within our master bed room and am actually pleased together with the quality. For a $120+ fan it has virtually everything that a $200+ fan has as far as the look and quality of construction. The only minor issues that it lacks is the fact that out of the box the fan wobbled sightly around the higher velocity setting (it arrives with a balancing kit which I employed to resolve this difficulty). Also, the motor just isn’t perfectly silent, although it can be pretty peaceful – certainly quieter compared to sound of the wind the fan produces. Apart from those two minor things, all is well and also the price is undoubtedly reduced for what you get.The 1 factor that you simply do not see within the photos would be the two pull-chains that dangle from opposite sides of the unit, just beneath the fan. The fan includes a 75 watt halogen light within the frosted-glass fixture. This puts out a reasonable amount of light, although it will not light up a room like a 3-bulb fixture that you see around the cheaper fan-light combos.
The fan arrived very quick, and with the free of charge shipping alternative. It seems excellent in my space and completes the remake with the space. I bought a fantastic sofa which was red vinyl with chrome arms and feet, the fan completes the space. The high quality is just as described. The air movement is far better than anticipated. Should you listen to any noise whenever you set up the fan, just verify to determine in case the wires are not sticking up and hitting the blades. It really is very quiet and cooling!! Would acquire again :)
I totally really like this fan – we place it up in our freshly redone kitchen. It is nice and tranquil as well as looks remarkable with all of our stainless steel appliances. You cannot beat the price – all in all, I’d undoubtedly suggest this fan to others.
Five Best Ceiling Fans (1)
Westinghouse 7861500 Contempra Trio Three-Light 42-Inch Five-Blade Ceiling Fan, Brushed Nickel with Frosted Glass Shades
This ceiling fan is surely an superb buy for that funds. I was pleasantly suprised at the way it looked following I set up it in my Residing Space. I’ve study another evaluations regarding the fan making noise, so I was a little skeptical about buying it, but I bought it anyways. Boy I’m glad I did! This is actually a genuinely good looking ceiling fan. Offers the space a classy, but not as well flashy appear. Each person who has arrive to the house right after I put in this has complimented on it. As far as noise, I experienced none. Just be sure when you place the blades with each other together with the arms, make particular the screws are excellent and tight. I utilised a cordless DeWalt drill with the torque setting set reduced to #12 to assure an excellent tight match. I actually was so impressed together with the looks and operation of this fan that I immeadiately went back to amazon.com and purchased an additional fan specifically such as this one, for my kitchen area.
I’ve put in several ceiling followers inside the previous, but the people at Westinghouse actually produced the set up easy with their fan. In contrast to most followers which need you to maintain the fan motor up although wiring it in, Westinghouse place a separate plug on their motor. You wire up the plug to the residence outlet, then lift the motor up. Couldn’t be less complicated. It took thirty minutes complete to install.
Like I described just before I purchased 3 of these enthusiasts and none of them is making any noise or have any vibration. Appropriate installation will be the important to item enjoyment. These enthusiasts search and function like fancier fans. In addition to, in relation to electrical items you must constantly employ someone with expertise or else you may wind up with a noisy unit due to inproper installation even if you believe you have follow directions towards the letter. Besides, these items are installed within the ceiling and if they’re producing any noise, which they’re not suppose to, it could be a hazard for you and your loved ones.
This fan is the entire enchilada. Quite effortless to put in and extremely quiet also. A faint hum as with any fan but no rattles or clicking noises. For modest to medium dimensions rooms, you will not uncover a far better fan. Candleabra bulbs aren’t an issue nor is the airflow. Why on earth you would pay more for any fan is over and above me, as this 1 completely matches the bill. Significantly.
This ceiling fan is surely an superb buy for that funds. I was pleasantly suprised at the way it looked following I set up it in my Residing Space. I’ve study another evaluations regarding the fan making noise, so I was a little skeptical about buying it, but I bought it anyways. Boy I’m glad I did! This is actually a genuinely good looking ceiling fan. Offers the space a classy, but not as well flashy appear. Each person who has arrive to the house right after I put in this has complimented on it. As far as noise, I experienced none. Just be sure when you place the blades with each other together with the arms, make particular the screws are excellent and tight. I utilised a cordless DeWalt drill with the torque setting set reduced to #12 to assure an excellent tight match. I actually was so impressed together with the looks and operation of this fan that I immeadiately went back to amazon.com and purchased an additional fan specifically such as this one, for my kitchen area.
I’ve put in several ceiling followers inside the previous, but the people at Westinghouse actually produced the set up easy with their fan. In contrast to most followers which need you to maintain the fan motor up although wiring it in, Westinghouse place a separate plug on their motor. You wire up the plug to the residence outlet, then lift the motor up. Couldn’t be less complicated. It took thirty minutes complete to install.
Like I described just before I purchased 3 of these enthusiasts and none of them is making any noise or have any vibration. Appropriate installation will be the important to item enjoyment. These enthusiasts search and function like fancier fans. In addition to, in relation to electrical items you must constantly employ someone with expertise or else you may wind up with a noisy unit due to inproper installation even if you believe you have follow directions towards the letter. Besides, these items are installed within the ceiling and if they’re producing any noise, which they’re not suppose to, it could be a hazard for you and your loved ones.
This fan is the entire enchilada. Quite effortless to put in and extremely quiet also. A faint hum as with any fan but no rattles or clicking noises. For modest to medium dimensions rooms, you will not uncover a far better fan. Candleabra bulbs aren’t an issue nor is the airflow. Why on earth you would pay more for any fan is over and above me, as this 1 completely matches the bill. Significantly.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Hot-weather exercise: How to keep cool
Outdoor exercise can be challenging when the temperature soars. Stay safe during hot-weather exercise by drinking enough fluids, wearing proper clothing and timing your workout to avoid extreme heat.
In the excitement of a pickup basketball game or the relaxation of a friendly round of golf, you might not notice the temperature rising — but your body will. If you exercise outdoors in the heat, use caution and common sense to prevent heat-related illnesses.
How hot weather affects your body
Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your heart and lungs. Both the exercise itself and the air temperature increase your body temperature. To dissipate heat, more blood circulates through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which increases your heart rate. If the humidity is high, your body faces added stress because sweat doesn't readily evaporate from your skin — which only pushes your body temperature higher.
Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you're exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long. The result may be a heat-related illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
In the excitement of a pickup basketball game or the relaxation of a friendly round of golf, you might not notice the temperature rising — but your body will. If you exercise outdoors in the heat, use caution and common sense to prevent heat-related illnesses.
How hot weather affects your body
Exercising in hot weather puts extra stress on your heart and lungs. Both the exercise itself and the air temperature increase your body temperature. To dissipate heat, more blood circulates through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which increases your heart rate. If the humidity is high, your body faces added stress because sweat doesn't readily evaporate from your skin — which only pushes your body temperature higher.
Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you're exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long. The result may be a heat-related illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
How to avoid heat-related illnesses
To keep it cool during hot-weather exercise, keep these basic precautions in mind:
- Take it slow. If you're used to exercising indoors or in cooler weather, take it easy at first. As your body adapts to the heat, gradually increase the length and intensity of your workouts. If you have a chronic medical condition or take medication, ask your doctor if you need to take additional precautions.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Your body's ability to sweat and cool down depends on adequate rehydration. Drink plenty of water while you're working out — even if you don't feel thirsty. If you're planning to exercise intensely or for longer than one hour, consider sports drinks instead. These drinks can replace the sodium, chloride and potassium you lose through sweating. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol, which actually promote fluid loss.
- Dress appropriately. Lightweight, loosefitting clothing promotes sweat evaporation and cooling by letting more air pass over your body. Avoid dark colors, which can absorb the heat. A light-colored hat can limit your exposure to the sun.
- Avoid midday sun. Exercise in the morning or evening — when it's likely to be cooler outdoors — rather than the middle of the day. If possible, exercise in the shade or in a pool.
- Wear sunscreen. A sunburn decreases your body's ability to cool itself.
- Have a backup plan. If you're concerned about the heat or humidity, stay indoors. Work out at the gym, walk laps inside the mall or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building.
Know when to call it quits
During hot-weather exercise, be on the lookout for heat-related illness. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Weakness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
If you suspect a heat-related illness, stop exercising and get out of the heat. Drink water, and wet and fan your skin. If you don't feel better within 60 minutes, contact your doctor. If you develop a fever higher than 102 F (38.9 C) or become faint or confused, seek immediate medical help.
Regular physical activity is important — but don't let hot-weather workouts put your health at risk.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Expert's Review of 5000 BTU Air Conditioner
If you need to cool down space from 100 to 150 square feet during summer heats, then 5000 BTU air conditioner will do the job. My recommendation is to choose between portable and window air conditioner, my personal decision would be to go for window air conditioning unit because of many reasons. First, they are cheaper then portable units and you will not have to empty its bucket all the time. Just turn it on and chill out.
In addition to 5000 BTU air conditioner energy efficiency ratio we may say that you should spend few more bucks to buy unit with higher EER because it will cost you less to maintain it on longer usage period. Also, higher EER units use less electrical energy so in this way they will pay back those few more bucks. When buying for new unit also pay attention on Energy Star feature as Energy Star air conditioners have high efficiency compressors and use at least 15% less energy then classic models.
In addition to 5000 BTU air conditioner energy efficiency ratio we may say that you should spend few more bucks to buy unit with higher EER because it will cost you less to maintain it on longer usage period. Also, higher EER units use less electrical energy so in this way they will pay back those few more bucks. When buying for new unit also pay attention on Energy Star feature as Energy Star air conditioners have high efficiency compressors and use at least 15% less energy then classic models.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Frigidaire FRA106BU1 10,000 BTU Compact Window Air Conditioner
The Frigidaire FRA106BU1 (Click here to buy this product from Amazon
) will cool a fairly large room of about 450 square feet, and nearly every review for this AC unit indicates that it does this well. Most owners give this AC unit high praise for excellent cooling and easy installation. Many find the temperature sensor in the remote control to be an extremely useful feature, and the sleep timer (which allows the unit to work more quietly with less energy) is also reported to work well.
There are a number of comments about how quietly the Frigidaire FRA106BU1 functions, though a few owners disagree. Professional tests find it to blow better straight ahead and to the left than to the right, and one owner notes this as well. The same tests show excellent cooling efficiency and ease of use, with which the majority of owners agree.
Pro
Con
Amazon Review:
"I am blown away with this product. ... installion was a breeze. ..." by Brian from NY
"The unit has a built in Clean Air Ionizer. For people with allergy's this is a plus." by Mark from PA
) will cool a fairly large room of about 450 square feet, and nearly every review for this AC unit indicates that it does this well. Most owners give this AC unit high praise for excellent cooling and easy installation. Many find the temperature sensor in the remote control to be an extremely useful feature, and the sleep timer (which allows the unit to work more quietly with less energy) is also reported to work well.There are a number of comments about how quietly the Frigidaire FRA106BU1 functions, though a few owners disagree. Professional tests find it to blow better straight ahead and to the left than to the right, and one owner notes this as well. The same tests show excellent cooling efficiency and ease of use, with which the majority of owners agree.
Pro
- Sleep mode
- Clean filter alert
- Air ionizer
- Quiet
- Remote control
Con
- Reports of shipping damage
Amazon Review:
"I am blown away with this product. ... installion was a breeze. ..." by Brian from NY
"The unit has a built in Clean Air Ionizer. For people with allergy's this is a plus." by Mark from PA
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