10 Solutions to Fixing Air Leaks

10 Solutions to Fixing Air Leaks

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling
air leaks

You wouldn’t run the heat in the house with the windows open in the winter, would you? Of course not! Unfortunately, when you have multiple air leaks in the house, this is the exact effect happening within your home. The warm, expensive indoor air is permitted to escape the house, while chilly, winter outdoor air is allowed into the home. These air leaks can be found in many areas of the home. The attic, windows, doors, and basement are prime places for the average homeowner to lose warm air to the outdoors.

If the weather in your area is beginning to get a little chilly, you may want to begin some yearly maintenance tasks to keep the cold air out of your home. If the warm air leaks outdoors, your heating unit will have to work overtime to try to keep the house comfortable. This means more wear and tear on your unit, and possibly costly repairs in the future. Additionally, you will feel chillier in the house and your heating bills will skyrocket if too much cold air is able to penetrate your home. Most of the following ten repairs are fairly inexpensive and simple to do, requiring little more than a screwdriver, a few easily found items, and a sharp pair of eyes. If you can’t afford the big tasks, like new windows or a complete insulation replacement in the attic, do what you can in other areas of the house. Tackle a few of these jobs each weekend, and you’ll be surprised at how much cozier your home is this winter.

1. Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows that leak air.

You know what it’s like to stand in front of the door with cold air blowing on your toes from the crack under the door. Seal those door jambs and thresholds with weatherstripping. Also, pass your hand around the window frames and door frames. If you feel cool air, caulk the cracks to keep out the air

2. Install foam gaskets behind outlets and switch plates on the wall.

This is super easy to do, but it does take a little bit of time.  For just a few dollars, you can buy a large packet of foam gaskets to insulate behind your light switches and electrical outlets. Simply remove the center screw that holds in the faceplate, place the foam gasket in place, and replace the faceplate and screw. 

3. Install foam sealants on larger gaps on windows.

If you have larger cracks and gaps in the framing around your windows and doors, you may be better off using expanding foam to seal them up. Use this stuff carefully and always wear gloves while applying it.

4. Inspect insulation for mold and leaks.

When checking out the neglected corners of your house for air leaks, pay attention to the status of your insulation. If you have moldy insulation, you should replace it. Mold can make people very sick, and it’s an indication of dampness that can lead to rotten wood. Make sure there are no gaps or leaks in your insulation .

5. Cover or replace single-pane windows. If you seek replacement, install efficient double-pane windows instead.

While it can be expensive to replace the windows in your home, installing efficient double paned windows can save you big money over the years and keep your home more comfortable. The air space between double paned windows serves as insulation to allow light in, but keep cold air outside. If you can’t afford new windows at this time, using a window insulation kit or heavy insulated drapes can help keep winter drafts at bay.

6. Cover the kitchen exhaust fan when you are not using it.

The kitchen exhaust is like a huge chimney and can vent your indoor air if you don’t pay attention to it. You can cover this opening with a dishtowel using Velcro type attachments. However, it is very important to not forget to remove it before you turn on the fan. Also, don’t make the mistake of shoving an old rag in the opening. If someone doesn’t know about it or forgets to remove it before turning on the fan, the rag can be sucked up into the exhaust fan, completely ruining the appliance.

7. Seal air leaks around furnaces, chimneys, or water heater vents with fire resistant materials.

Be sure that when you insulate and seal around potential fire hazards that you use fire retardant materials. Places like chimneys, furnaces, and hot water heater vents can get very hot. Flammable materials could ignite in these places.

8. Check your dryer vent for any blockage.

While you’re checking around the dryer vent, you may want to make a quick inspection of the dryer vent. If the dryer vent is blocked this is a fire risk.. Also, your dryer will be very inefficient without maximum airflow.

9. Check attics, basements, and crawl spaces for air leaks before the winter begins.

Look around in the frequently overlooked areas of the home for cold air leaks. Attics, basements, and crawl spaces can be places where cool air can enter the home. Close the vents to crawl spaces to keep cool air out. Shine a flashlight in dim corners to ensure that rodents or other critters haven’t chewed holes in unexpected places. Seal up cracks with putty or caulk, and make sure the insulation in the attic hasn’t been disturbed.

10. Seal air leaks around any plumbing or electrical fixtures coming from the walls, floor, and ceiling. 

Any time an electrical or plumbing fixture enters the house, there’s a chance that the opening through the wall isn’t sealed well. Double check these areas, and use foam insulation or caulk to close up holes where cold air can invade. Look behind toilets, under sinks, where the refrigerator water line enters the house, and where the dryer vent exhausts to the outdoors.

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7 Reasons You Have Cold Spots in Your Home

7 Reasons You Have Cold Spots in Your Home

  • Heating

Winter temperatures are dipping, and heaters are working overtime in many areas of the country. If your home is well-insulated, then you will struggle less with the cold. One issue many homeowners have is cold spots in the home. These spots can be found in certain rooms in the house and sometimes a room will have varying temperatures. You might find yourself comfortable in one spot, and freezing cold just a few feet away! Cold spots in your house are a pain, to put it lightly.

The problem with cold spots in your house is it makes it difficult to heat your home evenly. You may be turning up the heater to warm up in a cold spot, but find that the rest of your home becomes overheated. In addition to issues of comfort, your heating bill is going to rise as you struggle to keep indoor temperatures under control. If you are experiencing cold spots in your home, here are some things you should be looking for:

1. You Have An Improperly Sized Furnace

If your furnace is too small for your home, this will leave some rooms in your house out in the cold. A too-small furnace simply can’t generate enough heat for the amount of square footage. Not only that, but it has to work too hard, which is costing you more money. Talk to an HVAC expert about replacing your furnace with an energy-efficient model that is the right size for your home.

2.  Your Air Ducts Are Leaking

Leaky air ducts are a sneaky problem that will cost you money and create uncomfortable variations in temperature throughout your home. These issues affect you all year long, because they hurt your air conditioning, too. During the winter months, you’ll find that areas of your house are chilly while others are warm. Not only that, but leaky air ducts cause issues with indoor air quality, as well. This is a big problem, especially in the winter when your home is closed up tight. This issue can result in headaches, allergy symptoms and increased illness.

3. You Have Improperly Sized Ductwork

Similar to the issue of an improperly sized furnace, the wrong sized ductwork creates uneven heating in your home, causes the furnace to work too hard and results in increased energy costs and costly repairs to your furnace.

4. Your Furnace Does Not Have Zoning Capabilities

Even if your furnace and ductwork are adequate, if your furnace doesn’t have zoning capabilities, you are still going to run into temperature fluctuations throughout your home. This is because different areas of your home are simply going to be colder. This may be due to large windows, exposure, lack of carpeting/high ceilings and other factors. Zoning allows you to increase the temperature in some rooms and reduce or eliminate it in others. For example, if you don’t use one area of the house as much, there is little reason to heat it. If you have a room that is just naturally colder than another, you can increase the temperature in that particular room without overheating the rest of the house.

5. Your Thermostat Is Broken Or Needs To Be Replaced

This is a relatively easy fix, but people are often unaware that their thermostat is no longer functioning optimally. This is something that should be checked during your yearly maintenance and inspection.

6. Your Home Is Not Properly Insulated

Often, the problem isn’t with your furnace or your ducts, it is with your home. If your home isn’t properly insulated, you’ll have cold spots. A poorly insulated home is not only uncomfortable, it’s expensive! Get your home’s insulation evaluated by an expert to determine if you need to revamp your existing insulation. This  can be costly and sometimes complicated, so get more than one opinion on how to proceed, and remember that you can save money in the long run by addressing the issue.

7. You Didn’t Inspect Your Home For Leaks When The Season Began

Aside from insulation, leaks are a major culprit when it comes to cold spots in the home. Leaks around vents, ductwork, windows and doors are common and can be addressed fairly easily. A quick fix is to place towels in front of doors and use insulating drapes on your windows. You’ll need to get someone out if you have leaks around vents or ducts, but these are relatively easy fixes. 

So how do you know what is causing the problem? When it comes to your furnace the only way to know for sure is to schedule a maintenance and inspection appointment. At this appointment you can discuss your concerns, ensure that your furnace is the right model for your home and make sure everything is in good working order. This is a good time to talk about your options and determine if you need more extensive repairs or replacement. Addressing these issues can help save you money on your ongoing energy bills, and keep your home comfortable throughout the winter months.

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What to Look for During a Home Plumbing Inspection

What to Look for During a Home Plumbing Inspection

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling
home plumbing inspection

Your plumbing is something you tend to take for granted – until something goes wrong. When that happens, you realize just how dependent you are upon properly performing plumbing. It is more than a little inconvenient when your toilet won’t flush or you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, but your basement is flooded because a pipe rusted through. Emergencies such as these can be avoided for the most part if you spend time conducting regular plumbing inspections. Just as a car only performs well with regular maintenance, so it is with your plumbing. Neglecting your plumbing can lead to some serious complications over time, complications that can cost you a great deal of money.

The Effects of Neglect

Other than a non-working toilet and flooded basement, neglecting to have regular plumbing check-ups can see you:

  • Frequent drain clogs
  • Reduced lifespan of plumbing fixtures
  • No hot water
  • Frequent pipe leaks
  • Higher costs on utility bills
  • Higher risk of frozen or burst pipes
  • Greater in-home discomfort

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

On the other hand, if you take a few minutes on a regular basis to go through and check on the health of your plumbing, you will realize a great many benefits, including:

  • Improved plumbing fixture lifespan
  • Lower costs on utility bills
  • Reduced risk of water damage
  • Greater convenience around the house
  • Hot water 24/7 for showering, laundry, dishwashing, etc.
  • Improved water quality
  • Better peace of mind

What to Look For

Now that you know the importance of regular plumbing inspections, you probably want to know exactly what you need to check, and if you will know when something needs to be fixed. A general inspection is easy to do and we will tell you what needs checking and what you are looking for. As for repairs, it is best to leave most plumbing repairs to professionals as one wrong move can end up creating a lot of damage. Taking the time to perform an inspection, however, is something that you will become proficient at over a short period of time.  Include the following in your inspection:

  1. Check water heaters for any leaks – Look for signs of damp concrete or puddles beneath the tank.
  2. Testing shut-off and pressure relief valve on water heaters – Turn this off and then on and make sure it is operating as it should. Operation should be smooth and without sound and reaction should be immediate.
  3. Check electrical or gas valve connections on water heaters – A short in the electrical unit or a leak in the gas valve connections can not only cost money but also create a fire risk.
  4. Inspect plumbing fixtures leaks or damages – check for drips on the floor, signs of leaking in walls and any moisture on pipes. All of these can indicate there is a leak somewhere. Small drips become major leaks if not repaired.
  5. Be alert of any slow drainage from fixtures – This indicates there is a clog somewhere in the system. Water should flow freely and quickly.
  6. Check faucets for leaks. – Washers wear out and seals get broken. The little drip that may appear barely noticeable can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted water over time. 
  7. Test flushing on toilets for leaks. – Your toilet should only run long enough for the tank to refill when you flush the toilet. If your toilet runs continuously or seems to run at odd times between use, it can mean the seal inside needs replaced.
  8. Check or install water softening systems – Hard water not only leaves stains but it also causes build-up within your pipes that will slowly rust them from the inside out. Installing a water softening system takes care of both problems.
  9. Check or install water filtration  – Chemicals added to water to clean it can cause problems with build-up within pipes. A water filtration system will help eliminate the worst of the damage in the areas around the spigot and in such appliances as dishwashers and washing machines.
  10. Ensure piping is insulated and leak free – A frozen pipe can burst as it warms back up. The constant expanding/contracting of repeated freezing/thawing weakens the pipe, and all the pipes connected to it. Install special pipe insulation around all pipes and check regularly to make sure it remains free of tears and holes.

Run through this general inspection twice a year and you should be able to catch any minor problems before they become major ones. It is also recommended that once a year you have a professional come in and inspect the parts of your system you can’t. With regular maintenance, you won’t have to worry about being left high and dry at the worst possible moment.

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“Why Don’t I Have Hot Water?”

“Why Don’t I Have Hot Water?”

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling

A dreaded question that few consider the answer to until they find themselves high and dry; literally. There are a few common reasons why people find themselves without, and if you are sure you’re up to date on your bills, most of them have to do with your heater. Here are some common reasons your water heater isn’t working and some quick ways to help resolve your issue. 

No Hot Water 

If you have none whatsoever, that’s cause for some alarm. After all, your water heater’s one and only function is to provide you with hot water. Before you call up a professional, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the pilot light. You can typically locate the light at the base of the water heater. If the light is out, your next move should be to call up a professional plumber to get you back on track. 

You Don’t Have Enough Hot Water

Maybe you have some hot water but not enough to suit your needs. We’ve all taken those nice warm showers that turn into frigid nightmares because the hot water fails on you. In cases like these, there are one of two culprits, the first of which is a broken thermometer. This is a very easy fix for any water heater professional can patch up. The other possibility is that your current heater is unable to match your hot water needs. This can be because your household has grown in size, your hot water usage has increased, or the equipment’s effectiveness has been curbed in old age. In this instance, increasing your tank size may be the optimal solution to getting more hot water.

Your Heater is Leaking 

Of all the issues you could have with your heater, this is probably the worst. A leak is a sure fire sign that your water heater is on its way out and you’re due for a replacement, and heaters can be some expensive pieces of equipment. Sadly there’s not much to be done about a heater that’s so far gone that it sprung a serious leak, and you need to act quickly before the leak turns into a burst that floods your home with gallons of water. The team at McHales can walk you through the process of finding a new heater to last you for years to come. Never ask “why don’t I have hot water?” again!

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10 Warning Signs You Need Repiping Service

10 Warning Signs You Need Repiping Service

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling
repiping service

Many people neglect repiping service as a household need. However, there are warning signs to pay attention to that indicate you need repiping.  Repiping services can potentially prevent homeowners from experiencing a terrible disaster while saving them a great deal of time, money, and psychological stress in the long run. Pipes really don’t last forever, and it’s important for homeowners to recognize when their pipes are going to need to be replaced by pipe replacement:

1.  Low Water Pressure

When pipes start to fail, they immediately start taking the water pressure with them. You might notice that the water pressure in your shower isn’t as strong as it used to be, or that you are not getting much pressure from the sinks. This means that the pipes may be in the early stages of failing at that point, or they may have already progressed in that direction. 

2.  Corroded Pipes

In most cases, household pipes are hidden from view. However, some pipes are going to be visible outside of the house or in some other locations like the basement. If any of these pipes appear to be rusty, it’s a sign that some of the interior household pipes are just as rusty and in need of replacement.

3.  Murky Water

Tap water does get murky sometimes, which is why using a filter for drinking water is a good idea. However, when the water is consistently murky and the murkiness does not go away even after letting the water run for several seconds, it’s a sign that there might be something wrong with the pipes and you need to call a plumber right away.  

4.  Rusty Spots

Given that pipes run throughout a person’s house, people are sometimes going to see rust spots in odd places throughout their homes if they have old and rusting pipes that need to be replaced. This is more common in older houses.  

5.  Unexplained Cracks and Holes

Pipes run through an entire house, and failing pipes can cause cracks and holes in odd places. Overall, people should note that old and failing pipes can actually cause a lot of tremendous household damage. It’s important for people to recognize these signs and take measures to fix any cracks or holes with professional help.  

6.  Unexplained Dampness

People who are starting to get random water stains on their walls or floors might have old and leaky pipes. Unexplained household leaks are often caused by failing older pipes and not by water coming in from the outside.  

7.  Multiple Leaks

One household leak could have multiple sources. However, if people have several household leaks, and they seem to occur in areas that are heavy on the plumbing, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the internal piping system.

8.  Outdated Piping

Older piping systems do not last as long as many of the newer pipes that people have today. Of course, most people should want to get their polybutylene and especially lead pipes replaced for the sake of health reasons. One way or another,  replacing these these old piping systems will be beneficial.  

9.  Strange Noises

Sometimes, old pipes that really need to be replaced can make funny noises when water runs through them, owing to the fact that their internal flaws will make the water’s path less smooth. Pipes will usually make some noises, however really pronounced and unsettling noises should not be ignored.

10.  Advanced Household Age

The older the pipes, the more likely they are to fail. People don’t often change their pipes, and when people purchase an older home, they may well be dealing with the original pipes of the property. The older the house gets, the more advanced the damage to the pipes is going to be in almost all cases. Older houses should always be suspect in this regard. Houses that were built in 1960 or earlier are particularly susceptible.

The Benefits of Replacing Pipes

People often waste money on their water bills as a result of bad pipes, and repiping can fix that. Bad pipes can cause a lot of costly and difficult household damage that people can prevent through repiping services. Bad pipes can affect water quality, and replacing pipes can give people cleaner and healthier water.  Furthermore, replacing pipes will prevent a disaster that may require expensive water damage restoration. Today’s household pipes last longer and are more durable than older pipes, giving homeowners peace of mind knowing they are saving money and improving their health with superior water quality.

Call McHale’s for repiping service today!

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Five Signs You Need to Replace Your Electrical Outlets

Five Signs You Need to Replace Your Electrical Outlets

  • Electrical
  • Remodeling
replace electrical outlets

A safe home is everyone’s dream haven. Ideally, your dwelling is a place where danger isn’t allowed to enter.  However, as a responsible homeowner it is imperative that you safeguard every inch of your abode to the best of your ability. If not harnessed correctly, electricity can be a foe instead of the illuminating friend we rely on. Toward that end, we’ve included a list of what to look for in terms of protecting your home and more importantly when to replace your electrical outlets for maximum safety. 

1. Home is equipped with two-prong outlets

A quick scan of your outlets will answer this question. The National Electrical Code or NEC, made grounded three-prong outlets a requirement in 1965.  NEC though not the federal law is a part of the National Fire Codes series under the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA. The aim of NEC is to ensure a standard of safe electrical practices. Grounding an outlet refers to having a direct circuit path back to the actual earth or ground for extra current. This is what makes the third prong necessary. Two pronged outlets are known as being polarized. If there is a short in the wire, or excessive current due to a faulty appliance or for any reason, the chances of an electrical fire are greater in a two pronged circuit system since the excess or misdirected current has no way to travel to a neutralizing port – the ground.

It is critical to check for two pronged outlets quickly and if any are found schedule an electrician visit immediately to have the outlets updated.   

2. Outlets have significant wear and tear

 This is a point that many people overlook or put at the bottom of their to-do list. Signs of significant wear and tear include worn outlets. If inserted cords do not fit snugly in the receptacle. If the cords slip out easily or are hanging out of the outlet, there is a chance that excess or even the proper voltage current may not have the proper channel in which to flow due to ill-fitted prongs.

Other signs of wear and tear include broken plate covers that expose the electrical outlet mechanism. Paint or other decorative substances inside the outlet pose another risk. To ensure safety, outlets that are exhausted from years of use need to be replaced as soon as possible.  

3. Electrical outlets are not tamper resistant

If you look around your home and find that the outlets are not tamper resistant then it is a good chance you need to replace them.  For over twenty years the NEC mandates require tamper resistant electrical outlets for the pediatric floors of hospital settings. Since 2008 NEC has required tamper resistant outlets on newly constructed residential dwellings.  The tamper resistant outlets are manufactured with a shutter that only allows a two pronged plug into the receptacle to properly create a circuit. If a child attempts to put a foreign object into one of the receptacles the shutter will not open allowing for proper contact to connect the flow of electricity. Since many people do not live in a new construction it is important to speak with your landlord about the outlets in your abode.   

4. Home is equipped with builder’s grade outlets

Builder’s grade or homeowner’s grade outlets are the least expensive outlets that can be purchased. It is a very good chance that if your home has been built by a contractor and you did not specifically request a higher grade outlet you have builder’s grade outlets installed in your home. If you are a renter again you should speak with your landlord regarding the outlets in use in your rented dwelling. Builder’s grade outlets are of an overall poorer quality and are designed to last for 5 to 10 years at most.

Not significantly more expensive are the better choice for residences which is commercial grade outlets. These outlets are built to last for one hundred years. Replace builder’s grade outlets with commercial grade. The third general type of outlet on the market is the hospital grade outlet. These outlets are very expensive and not typically recommended for residential use.

5. Outlets have ungrounded receptacles 

Ungrounded receptacles are receptacles which are two pronged and have no way to channel electrical current to a ground or earth source. Replacing two pronged outlets with three pronged outlets will remedy the problem and provide safe outlets for your home.  In addition to replacing the two-pronged receptacles it is necessary to have an electrician check your panel’s grounding source.

Keeping your home safe can start with a visual sweep and inspection of your electrical outlets. With a little thought and savvy you can quickly ascertain whether or not you need to replace your electrical outlets.   

Call McHale’s today and replace your electrical outlets today!

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8 Kitchen and Bathroom Lighting Upgrades

8 Kitchen and Bathroom Lighting Upgrades

  • Electrical
  • kitchen remodeling
  • Remodeling
lighting upgrades

One of the biggest concerns that you should have as a homeowner is finding the right additions to add more appeal to your residence. For most homeowners, making upgrades in both their bathroom and kitchen is important due to the amount of use these areas get. Lighting is one of the main issues that should be addressed when trying to make these areas more functional. Without proper lighting upgrades, you will experience issues like an overall decline in the room’s atmosphere or the inability to function in either rooms due to a lack of visibility. Below are some of the lighting upgrades you need to consider for your home’s bathroom and kitchen.

1. Track Lighting Upgrades

If you are looking to increase both the appeal and visibility in the bathroom or kitchen of your home, then track lighting is a great option. Track lighting is both easy to install and will provide a higher degree of illumination. The addition of track lighting will allow you to point the lamps in any direction that you want, which only increases the level of customization you can take advantage of.

2. Shelf and Cabinet Lighting

One of the most poorly lit areas in a bathroom or kitchen is around the cabinets. Trying to find spices or even towels without the proper amount of lighting can be nearly impossible. Installing under cabinet lighting is the best way to solve this problem while adding an ambiance to the kitchen and bathroom areas in your home.

3. Chandeliers are a Great Addition

Creating an environment in your bathroom or kitchen that is luxurious and classy is easy when finding the right chandelier. In smaller bathrooms and kitchens, having a chandelier is essential due to the space that it can save you. If you have no room for floor lamps in these areas, a chandelier is a great option due to the amount of light it can produce and the appeal it is able to add. When choosing a chandelier, you will need to contemplate just how grandiose you want it to be. There are a variety of different chandeliers on the market, which means you can achieve the customized look you need with ease.

4. Recessed Lighting

Are you looking for lighting fixtures that can help to make your bathroom or kitchen appear bigger? Recessed lighting is a great option when trying to accomplish this task. Adding recessed lighting will result in what is called wall washing. This term is used to describe a lighting fixture that offers increased illumination to the walls in a particular room. Most homeowners who have sloped ceilings will benefit the most from the installation of recessed lighting and the subsequent wall washing effect it will produce.

5. Dimmer Switch

If you are looking for more control of the lighting that you have in your bathroom and kitchen, then a dimmer switch is a great option. Not only with the installation of this switch allow you to adjust the brightness of a room, it will also allow you to save energy in the process. Generally, bulbs will last 25% longer when used in conjunction with a dimmer switch.

6. Change Light Bulbs

When trying to improve the ambiance and illumination that you have in the bathroom or kitchen in your home, you may want to change out the existing light bulbs. You need to make sure that the bulbs you are using are the right wattage. Using a higher wattage than recommended can lead to the bulbs burning out quicker.

7. Bathroom Mirror Lighting

One of the most used methods of illuminating a bathroom is via a mirror with lights built into it. Not only will these mirrors help you to navigate your way to the bathroom during the night time hours, they can offer a level of appeal that is unrivaled. When trying to get the right backlit bathroom mirror, you will have to take some measurements to ensure you get the proper fit. Due to the complexity involved in installing these mirrors, you will need to hire a professional with plenty of experience to help out.

8. Accent Lighting

In some instances, the reason for installing additional lighting in the bathroom and kitchen of a home is to highlight some of the structural features it has. Using accent lighting will allow you to draw attention to the best features in your home, while creating ambiance in the process. If you are unsure what type of structural elements you need to highlight with accent lighting, then having a professional familiar with home illumination give you guidance is vital.

Investing in new bathroom lighting will not only add more appeal to your home, it can also increase the value. Choosing energy efficient lighting can also help you to save money on utility bills over time.

Call McHale’s today and see our full selection of lighting upgrades for your kitchen and bathroom!

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10 Random HVAC Facts

10 Random HVAC Facts

  • Air Conditioning
  • Furnaces
  • Heating
HVAC Facts

10 Random HVAC Facts

You’ve probably heard many of the common energy saving recommendations, such as switching out old light bulbs for new energy saving options. However, by looking further into these 10 random HVAC facts, you’ll not only learn a bit more about your heating and cooling system, but also a few ways to trim down monthly energy consumption. 

Whether you own your own home or currently rent an apartment unit, monthly utility bills are often a big question. You never really know what it might cost when you open that envelope. Wouldn’t it be nice to no longer worry about the number looking back at you? By cutting down energy consumption, you can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars every single year. 

1. Where Does Most Energy Usage Come From?

Did you know the vast majority of your energy consumption comes from three different appliances in your home? That’s right. 75% of your home’s total energy usage stems from your water heater, air conditioner and heater/furnace. This means if you can improve the energy efficiency of these three appliances you’ll save a substantial amount throughout the year. But what options do you have? First, how old is your water heater? An old water heater bleeds energy. If it is time for an upgrade, consider a tankless water heater.

2. Almost Half of Homeowners Don’t Know What Their Monthly Electric Bill Is

Yes, 47% of homeowners don’t know what they’re spending on electricity. Would you do that for your mortgage, rent, car insurance or cell phone? Probably not. You need to know what you are paying and monitor changes in monthly bills. By doing this, you’ll have a better understanding of what you’re paying and how it changes throughout the year. This will allow you to make necessary changes to improve energy efficiency. 

3. Sleep Better With the Right Temperature

Struggling to sleep? Maybe it’s your home’s temperature. Optimal sleeping temperatures are between 65 and 72. Do different family members need varying room temperatures to sleep? Consider switching to a ductless multi-room system. This allows you to control each room’s temperature directly and can save you money along the way (as you’re no longer cooling or heating the guest bedroom or other areas of the house you rarely use). 

4. 10 Degrees is 14%

According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, if you turn down your thermostat 10 degrees while out of the house and at night, you’ll save 14% on your energy bill. With a programmable thermostat you can easily make this change. A smart thermostat gives you even more control, allowing you to change the home temperature from your smartphone. 

5. Save With Cooler Water

Everyone loves a hot shower. But do you need it that hot? If you turn down the temperature on your water heater by 10 degrees, you can save up to 5% annually on energy costs. If your water heater is on the older side, replacing it can help boost energy efficiency even further. 

6. What Saving $75 Means

By transforming your house into an energy efficient home, you can save at least $75 a month. Over the span of 30 years, this equals a savings of $27,000. Think about what you can do with that sort of cash.  

7. Replace That Old Furnace

A furnace’s life expectancy is 20 years. However, as it ages, it becomes less efficient. This is why you need to have it annually inspected in order to maintain performance and reduce energy costs. Every year, newer furnaces are sold with improved energy efficiency ratings. 

8. The AFUE Rating

Did you know your heating system’s AFUE rating can tell you the percentage of fuel consumed for heat and what you’re losing. Stay on top of this to see if there is a change. It means you’re losing fuel in the transfer. Insulation options can help cut fuel loss and make your system more energy efficient. 

9. Beware the Power Vampire

There are tons of appliances that still draw power, even when turned off. These appliances are referred to as “Power Vampires.” Consider either unplugging unused appliances or connect everything into a power saving power strip. Throughout the United States, all the energy lost to power vampires annually is enough to power 7,387 homes a year. 

10. The Love of Central Air

According to the US Census Bureau of the American Housing Survey, 65% of households have central AC. Only 22% use a room or window unit. The rest either don’t have AC or use an alternative cooling method. AC units can kill your energy bill if you’re not careful. In fact, the amount of energy the United States uses annually to run AC units is the same amount of energy, in total, used by the entire  African continent. 

Have any questions about these HVAC facts? Call Mchales Today!

Schedule circuit breaker replacement with a call to McHale’s today!

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By McHales

5 Signs You Need to Replace a Circuit Breaker

5 Signs You Need to Replace a Circuit Breaker

  • Electrical
circuit breaker replacement

Circuit breaker replacement can be an economical investment in protecting your home while avoiding damage to your appliances and fixtures and protecting your family.  They are a valuable first line of defense in home safety, but are often overlooked as a solution to real problems.  Your electrical panel is likely hidden in the basement or in a utility closet, well out of sight and thought. However, if you continue to ignore the warning signs and resist checking and replacing a circuit breaker as needed you can experience:

  • Flickering Lights: How annoying is it when you’re eating dinner with the family and the lights keep raising and lowering like in a haunted house? While distracting, you figure you can live with it.  That could be a big mistake.
  • Poor Performance from Appliances: Your stove may bake unevenly or never seem to reach proper temperature.  The dryer might shut off in mid-cycle. You may be convinced that all your kitchen appliances need to be replaced due to strange and inconsistent performance. What a waste of cash if it is simply a circuit breaker that needs to be replaced.
  • Damage to Essential Lights and Appliances:   When circuit breakers fail to control the flow of electricity properly you may experience bulbs that constantly burn out or a microwave that barely lasted past its one year warranty. Overheating can occur, causing lasting damage to coils and computer boards.
  • Potential of Smoke, Fire and Water Damage: When too much power is drawn through a power cord, an electrical fire can result from overheating. Your home could be severely damaged by smoke, water and flame. The cost of failing to check your electrical panel for problems continues to skyrocket.
  • Lower Property Value: When you experience a fire, no matter how small, the integrity and value of the property is lowered. Failing to upgrade electrical service to your home can result in a potential buyer hesitating to put in an offer. They want to purchase a home that is safe and has been maintained.

5 Warning Signs of a Failing Circuit Breaker

  1. Burning Smell In The Electrical Panel: If you smell a burning odor coming from the panel that means wires and insulation have become overheated and are failing to protect your home from an electrical short elsewhere. Don’t wait! Shut off the main power to the house and call an electrician immediately for emergency service.
  2. Breakers Tripping Frequently: A circuit breaker is designed to trip when too much power is being drawn through it to protect your entire home. If a breaker is tripping every time you turn on a particular appliance like the microwave or vacuum cleaner, the breaker may be worn out and ready to fail. An electrician will be able to determine if it’s simply a bad breaker or if you need to add a circuit to your home
  3. Physical Damage: If you notice scorch marks around the breaker, at an outlet or appliances are failing due to melted wires, it’s a good bet that your electrical panel and breakers require immediate service. A melted wire is one step away from your entire house going up in flames. Place that emergency call to the electrician and unplug all fixtures from that circuit.
  4. Breaker Will Not Stay Reset: Probably after several months of resetting a breaker, it simply won’t stay on for any period of time.  The breaker has probably failed. However, your electrician will check the entire circuit to make sure further damage wasn’t done to the wiring.
  5. Old Age: Circuit breakers are designed to last for decades of use. However, if you have a home where the electrical panel has not been serviced in ten years or more, there’s a good chance that there are several breakers ready to fail. Having an electrician inspect your panel is a wise investment.

It doesn’t take a lot of time or money to have failed circuit breaker replacement service. When you invest in preventative maintenance on your electrical panel you will enjoy the following benefits:

  • Peace of Mind: Your home is now a safe environment for your family. You will sleep better when you don’t worry about the house catching fire.
  • Extended Life of Appliances and Fixtures: You can now expect your new refrigerator and cooktop to last for years, until you are ready to renovate again.
  • Improved Convenience: You never realized how much easier life is when lights, appliances and electrical devices work each and every time–simply because you invested in a precautionary repair.
  • Maintains Value of Your Home: Updated service to your electrical panel gives a buyer confidence they are making a good investment.

 

Schedule circuit breaker replacement with a call to McHale’s today!

By McHales

Reasons to Consider a Holiday Fuse Box Upgrade

Reasons to Consider a Holiday Fuse Box Upgrade

  • Electrical
electrical repair

Reasons to Consider a Holiday Fuse Box Upgrade

Are you planning a staycation for the holidays? If so, then it might be the perfect time for a fuse box upgrade. Because while it might not be the most exciting thing to do with your time and money, upgrading your fuse box or electrical panel is definitely a worthwhile investment. Take a look at our reasons to consider a holiday fuse box upgrade.

Improved safety  

If you have an older home, it was most likely only designed with a few circuits that used a total of 30, 50, or sometimes 60 amps. Today, however, we consume more power because we have far more appliances and devices. That means we place a higher demand on our electrical systems than those old ones are designed to handle. When an electrical circuit overloads, the circuit breaker trips. This interrupts the power supply and prevents the wires or your appliances from overheating and catching fire.

Unfortunately, in older homes, connections are often loose—and that prevents the circuit from tripping, which can lead to overheating wires and cause a fire. Even if you replace the circuit breaker with a larger one, it might not be a safe solution if it’s rated to handle more power than the wire it’s on. 

When you upgrade your fuse box, you ensure that all the wiring, fuses, and circuit breakers are graded to handle the power that your household uses. This eliminates the danger of wiring overheating and causing fires. 

More and more consistent power

As we’ve seen, nowadays we consume more power than ever before. Just think about the number of TVs, laptops, and smart phones every household has compared to even just 20 years ago. Of course, using all this power on a system that’s not equipped to handle it has consequences. Fuses blow more often and need to be replaced. Circuit breakers trip regularly and need to be re-set, for example if you’re running the dishwasher and start the vacuum cleaner. You’ve probably also noticed “brown-outs,” or times when the lights in your home dim if you turn on another appliance. In some cases, you might even notice the lights flickering. 

Replacing your old fuse box with a new one that’s designed to handle all your power needs will ensure that all these small inconveniences are over. Instead of having to drop everything to re-set a circuit breaker when a circuit trips due to you using the coffee maker and toaster at the same time, you’ll be able to enjoy your breakfast in peace and head out to work without any delays. 

Increased home value

If you make the investment to upgrade your fuse box now, it will add significantly to your home’s value, which can be a plus if you’re looking to sell within the next few years. Prospective buyers will see an outdated fuse box as a significant disadvantage—and that will be reflected in how much they’re willing to pay for the home. With a recently upgraded fuse box, the home’s power system being taken care of, which means you can take that into account when setting your asking price. 

Finally, if you upgrade your fuse box before the holidays, then you’ll have the additional security of knowing that your home’s electrical system will be able to handle all of those extra holiday lights!

Thinking of doing a holiday fuse box upgrade? Then call McHale’s today and schedule!

By McHales