(NAPSI)When temperatures rise, many people automatically crank up the air conditioners to stay cool. However, it may surprise them to learn that air conditioners use about 5 percent of all electricity produced in the U.S., costing homeowners more than $11 billion a year in energy expenses.

The good news is that by following some practical tips at home, you can stay cool, save money and even help the environment. Here are a few energy-saving ideas to consider:

Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling: Upgrading your system can have a big effect on your utility billsand your comfortyear-round. In fact, the most energy-efficient heating and cooling products on the marketductless mini-split systemscan save you as much as 30 percent on your utility bills.

How does a ductless mini-split system work? Thin copper tubing is used to pump refrigerant from an outdoor compressor directly into an indoor air-handling unit, where the air is quietly distributed to the interior space. This eliminates the need for basement or attic evaporators and bulky, expensive ductwork. Mini-splits are easy to install and usually require only a 3- to 4-inch hole through a wall or ceiling to connect the indoor and outdoor units.

Ductless mini-split systems also let you control the individual temperature in each room. This means you don't have to waste money cooling or heating spaces that you're not usingsuch as guest bedrooms, bonus rooms, sunrooms and basements. Ductless systems operate at efficiency levels far above central forced-air systems and window units, as duct losses in a central AC system can account for more than 30 percent of your energy consumption. Fujitsu General, a leading mini-split manufacturer, offers the most energy- efficient lineup on the market, including wall- and floor-mounted, slim duct and compact cassette indoor units.

Rebates and Tax Incentives: To encourage homeowners to buy energy-efficient products and reduce greenhouse gases, many utility companies offer rebates on qualified products. To estimate how much money you could save on a ductless mini-split system, you can visit the efficiency calculator on constantcomfort.com. The federal stimulus package also offers significant tax credits to homeowners who invest in new insulation and energy-efficient windows and heating/cooling systems.

Quick Fixes: Small changes can have a big effect on your utility bill as well. Try to use heat-producing appliancesstoves, irons and dryersat night or early morning. Switch to LED lightbulbs instead of incandescent bulbswhich consume 90 percent more power. Seal air leaksaround windows, doors, and places where pipes and wires come through walls. Check existing caulking and weather stripping for gaps or cracks.

Window Treatments: These can work to your advantage, too.Close all windows and coverings to keep your house cool. Dark-colored curtains, Roman shades, even discount store roller shades can be very effective. Solar screens, or meshlike window screens, intercept up to 70 percent of solar energy before it gets into the house, and installing awnings can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 77 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

When it comes to beating the heat, there is no need to suffer high utility bills. There are many actions you can take to reduce your energy expenses. You can change some everyday habits or invest in a new energy-efficient heating and cooling system. Many Fujitsu systems with the Energy Star rating are more than twice as efficient as the minimum standard set by the government.

To learn more or find a contractor nearby, call (888) 888-3424 or visit http://www.constantcomfort.com.

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)

View post:
Tips To Help Cool Down Air-Conditioning Costs - The Southeast Sun

Sun., April 9, 2017, 7:17 a.m.

A volunteer group of Pullman Avista customers saw their power consumption decline by 9.3 percent after they were given high-tech thermostats.

The devices were distributed as part of a smart grid project where Avista deployed a number of cutting-edge technologies and gathered data to see if their performance merited putting them into broader use.

Overall, the upgrades are saving 43,000 megawatt hours per year in Pullman and Spokane, not counting the conservation by the Pullman thermostat users.

We exceeded our goal, said Curtis Kirkeby, an engineer at Avista. We did our normal utility business case. It met that criteria.

Kirkeby declined to share dollars saved versus those that were spent, but he said that generally Avista looks at the rate of return on investments over 20 years.

And in this instance, Avista didnt assign a value to the 2.5 million customer outage minutes that were avoided from August of 2012 through September of 2016. That was because the benefit came through equipment that had other advantages, such as reducing consumption.

The research completed by Avista was one part of the Pacific Northwest Smart Grid Demonstration Project. A federal grant of $178 million was split among 11 utilities in Idaho, Washington, Montana, Oregon and Wyoming.

Each grant recipient tested emerging technologies to see how well they made strides in conservation and reliability at a reasonable price. The data was documented and shared nationally.

Elements of the smart grid that Avista introduced have been put into broader use and as the utility moves forward, it will consider what it learned anytime it makes a major decision about infrastructure, Kirkeby said.

In the case of the thermostats which are connected to wireless internet, Avista is encouraging residential customers anywhere in its Idaho and Washington territory to buy them by offering rebates of as much as $100. The retail price runs anywhere from $100 to $300 and installation costs vary.

The thermostats allowed 75 Pullman families during the project to adjust the temperatures in their homes using smartphones, which could be done even if they werent on the premises.

They also provided information about daily usage patterns and enabled users to see what their estimated monthly bill would be at any time.

Almost as surprising was what happened when Avista activated another feature of the thermostats, one that allowed the utility to adjust the temperature in private residences up or down by two degrees on days where extreme hot or cold taxed the utilitys power resources.

Avista had high acceptance from the participants who had the option of rejecting the thermostat changes but the utility found other smart grid measures showed more promise.

One is invisible to customers. Voltage in wall outlets was diminished by two volts, something that was possible because the improvements Avista made ensured a constant flow of power in the lower range without diminishing the performance of appliances like toasters. That technology also helped prevent outages.

Another strategy that succeeded involved closer cooperation with Washington State University. Avista now has a protocol where it can request power from the schools generating facilities, which are powered with natural gas and diesel.

It can also have the school reduce its demand through minor changes in how it operates its heating and cooling system for classrooms, conference rooms, offices and hallways, but not more sensitive areas such as laboratories or dormitories.

Even though the smart grid project is technically over, Avista continues to examine innovations, Kirkeby said.

Everything is on a road map where we have customers gain value from what we do and participate in what we do.

Read more from the original source:
Knowledge gained as power conserved - The Spokesman-Review

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has responded after the Executive Director of a historic theatre in Shelbyville told 93 WIBC that he has been in conflict with inspectors from the State Fire Marshals office over plans to upgrade the building.

The Strand Theatre at 215 S. Harrison Street in Shelbyville has been owned and operated by a non-profit group since 2008, which is led by Executive Director David Finkel. Over the past nine years, he says volunteers have put in a great deal of work to modernize the facility, including a replacement of the buildings electrical panels in 2009 and the installation of a new heating and cooling unit in 2015 and 2016. But Finkel says it wasnt until the theatre applied for a permit last year with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to remodel the stage and install an additional emergency exit did he begin to experience issues with the states fire inspectors.

This past year in August 2016, we had a new inspector. For some reason, all that work in the past didnt seem to be what he wanted, says Finkel, who told 93 WIBC that the inspector had required the theatre to install a new sprinkler system which would have cost the non-profit group more than triple the cost of what the building is worth.

We said we didnt think that was right, and [the senior staff from the state fire marshals office] was here for a meeting. That meeting ended up in November 2016 turning into an inspection. The outcome of that inspection was they rescinded our Construction Design Release for this new fire exit and the expansion of our stage. We didnt quite understand why, says Finkel.

A local attorney appealed the decision for the Strand. Finkel says the state decided to cancel their recension of the previous permit before it went in front of a judge.

Finkle says the State Fire Marshals office then sent a written letter notifying the theatre that they would have to go through a Construction Progress Inspection.

We called around to find out what that was all about and there was not a contractor, an engineering firm, an architectural firm [nor] anybody that had ever heard of such a thing, according to Finkel.

During that follow-up inspection on March 13, Finkel says the same inspector told him the theatre had two violations. Both were due to Construction Design Permits that werent filed or approved with the state for the electrical panels that were replaced eight years ago, as well as the new HVAC system that had been replaced starting two years ago.

Finkle says the state inspector has threatened the Strand Theatre with a $250 a day violation per fine, which would equal $3,500 a week if levied against the non-profit organization. Finkel says the theatre will file an appeal.

93 WIBC contacted the office of James Greeson, the State Fire Marshal to ask for his response to the interview with David Finkel. An e-mail was sent from the Public Information Office of the Indiana Department of Homeland to 93 WIBC asking to submit questions in writing regarding the Strand Theatre.

Below is the return e-mail correspondence that 93 WIBC received on Wednesday, April 5, 2017:

Following is a reply regarding the Strand Theatre in Shelbyville. All text from IDHS and the State Fire Marshal are in red. The first is a general statement. The remaining text is in answer to your questions.

Your questions were wide ranging, and we had to talk to quite a few people inspectors, supervisors, an agency attorney, etc., to track down the information you had questions about. Thats the reason we were not able to get this information to you earlier.

Thanks,

Office of Public Affairs

Indiana Department of Homeland Security

Building inspectors under the state fire marshal, part of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, have a primary concern for the safety of the public. One of the agencys responsibilities is to inspect public structures like the Strand Theatre for compliance with state fire and building code as adopted by the Fire and Building Safety Commission. This result is to use the code as part of a process to protect the public with appropriate fire safety measures.

1) A representative from the Strand Theatre says thatthe State Fire Marshalls office performed a Construction Progress Inspection on the property. Are those types of inspections required of every building that is going through ongoing upgrades?

These types of inspections are not required, but are not uncommon. This was not the type of inspection with regard to the Strand Theater. The Strand Theater was being inspected because improvements without a state construction design release were discovered. One of the goals of that inspection was to determine next steps. State Fire Marshal inspectors, part of IDHS, do have the authority to conduct these inspections, even if facility owners originally filed plans with local building officials.

2) Is it common for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to require the installation of a sprinkler system in order to finish work on a previously approved State Design Release, such as the one granted to the Strand Theatre for the installation of a new fire exit?

The design release was given for plans that provided incomplete information, which the agency did not know at the time. Once discovered, the design release was rescinded. This occurred in December of 2016. Also, the follow up inspections that have been negatively mentioned helped determine that a sprinkler system was not required for the building. It helped identify an area that wasnt documented in the plans that removed the need for the sprinkler system.

3) A representative from the Strand Theatre also says the previous inspector(s) with the State Fire Marshals office responsible for regular inspections of the property did not ask for or communicate the requirement of Construction Design Permits for HVAC work done in 2008 and electrical work done in 2015 and 2016?

It is the responsibility of property owners, managers, design professionals and construction managers to follow all applicable code. It is the responsibility of the building owners, managers and designers to ensure their work is properly filed so the appropriate inspectors can conduct inspections.

In this case, the state inspector had no knowledge that the HVAC and electrical improvements had been made. The inspections being conducted previously by the state inspector were for Entertainment and Amusement permits. As such, the inspectors normal inspection would not have required him to view any areas where updates of the electrical or HVAC had been made. When the inspector incidentally saw the updates, he did tell the team representing the Strand that permits would need to be applied for.

Local building officials are responsible for regularly inspecting facilities within their jurisdiction.

State inspectors, in addition to regular inspections, may make more frequent visits to a facility. The main two reasons are: 1) Follow up on violations or 2) if complaints are received.

Were these permits required as far back as 2008? Yes.

4) How does the Indiana Department of Homeland Security respond to those who would say that the recent requests made of the inspector from the State Fire Marshals office, as well as the suggestion of a $500 a day fine for violations, put an undue financial burden upon a non-profit organization with limited funds such as The Strand Theatre in Shelbyville seeking to provide an economic benefit to the community?

While the option of a fine does fall under the authority of IDHS and the State Fire Marshal, this option isnt used often. Also, if its determined a venue owner or manager is working to come into code compliance, fines can be withdrawn. The agency would prefer to simply work with the facility to ensure compliance with state code. Also, please note that the option of a fine is up to $250 per day, per violation, just to clarify.

Representatives of the agency have explained to the Strand team on several occasions that they would rather work with them for compliance rather than issue a fine. The agency is charged with protecting the public with appropriate safety measures, according to code adopted by the Fire and Building Safety Commission.

93 WIBC asked David Finkel, Executive Director of the Strand Theatre, for his follow up response to the answers provided by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security:

[In response to IDHS answer to Question #1] This answer is not what was communicated to the Strand. The following is part of the email received from the State Fire Marshal's Office:

Marshal Greeson has directed a construction progress inspection of the Strand Theater. Could you please make arrangements for our inspection team to have access to the facility on Monday March 13that 10:00 AM. We will need access to the entire building including the loft above the stage.

We informed them that there was no work done on the area for the Construction Design Release. It was assumed that progress of the construction from the reinstated Construction Design Release was the purpose of the inspection, hence a "construction PROGRESS inspection". All other work at the theater was properly permitted and inspected locally. When we asked construction professionals about what to expect in a Construction Progress Inspection, none had ever heard of such an inspection. The "next steps" as determined by that inspection was issuing of violations.

[In response to IDHS answer to Question #2] The Constructions Design Release for this fire exit was reinstated by the State Fire Marshal's office in December 2016.

[In response to IDHS answer to Question #3] The 100% volunteer Strand Theatre relies upon the advice and guidance of the local inspectors and design professionals for all work done to the theater. At no time was it communicated that work such as replacing of electrical panels would need a Construction Design Release. The work was locally permitted and inspected. The Strand is proud to provide entertainment to our community without soliciting our community or businesses for funds. We have had gracious professionals do work pro-bono and contractors perform work at reduced rates. Had there been a requirement at that time, the Strand would have complied.

[In response to IDHS answer to Question #4] The State Fire Inspector, during the process of having the violations signed for on his tablet, told the representative from the Strand that each violation carried at $250 per day fine. The volunteer asked specifically when that fine commenced, he stated "as of today's date" which was March 13, 2017. He did not mention it was a potential fine. He did not seem willing to help in resolution of these issues, only communications of the violations and actions that could be taken.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE POSTED TO WIBC.COM ON SUNDAY, APRIL 2.

93 WIBCS C.J. MILLER REPORTING.

Twitter: @CJMillerWIBC

Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Strand Theatre

Follow this link:
State Office Responds to Conflict Over Shelbyville Theatre Inspections - 93.1 WIBC Indianapolis

Steve and Natalie Brogan, owners of the nearly 20-year-old A-Plus Air of Stoney Creek, believe that everyone should understand the basics behind their home heating and cooling systems. This makes for informed consumers who can recognize top-notch, reliable service when they see it.

If youre looking for a heating and cooling specialist, look for a company that has taken on projects of all sizes. Make sure the contractors are not simply installers, but also have first-hand experience in custom designing, building and installing complete systems.

If youre a business owner, hire a company that has a full portfolio of varied commercial projects under its belt. It doesnt matter whether your own job is large or small; ideally, you want to hire a team that is expert in their field.

A reputable HVAC business will always look to create efficiencies for its customers, regardless of the scale of the project. Every job should be equally important, whether its a straightforward, minor residential repair or a complex, brand new commercial installation that involves several different heating and cooling zones.

The company should also be able to offer you a comprehensive range of products and services. The staff should attend ongoing training to keep their skills and knowledge sharp.

Look for a company that provides a personal and professional home consultation where you can gather information and have an open, relaxed and pressure-free discussion about your needs.

The Brogans last bit of advice is to insist on a business that is a long-time member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Its an important safeguard for consumers.

A really top-notch HVAC company can go beyond the basics to offer specialty services, such as designing and installing in-floor radiant heating, or expertly controlling your indoor environment through zoning systems and the use of separate thermostats. A-Plus Air can do all of this, and can even make recommendations on essentials like air purifiers and humidifiers.

A-Plus Air is a member of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute, the Niagara Home Builders Association and the Ontario Home Builders Association, as well as the BBB. For more information about the company, please contact them at 905-385-6450. A-Plus Air is located at 1100 South Service Road, Unit 110, in Stoney Creek.

Read the original post:
What to look for in an HVAC provider - Hamilton Spectator

A vital program youve likely never heard of has been working behind the scenes to greatly improve the quality of life in Walla Walla.

In May 2013, the city of Walla Walla earned its status as an entitlement city Community Development Block Grant program.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, CDBG helps the least privileged and the most vulnerable in our community.

With CDBG funds, the city has:

While the allocation varies from year to year, the city of Walla Walla received $368,678 in 2016.

CDBG funds are administered by the Citys Support Services Department.

The citys CDBG program has a number of projects and priorities for 2017.

The Home Repair Program, funded by CDBG and run by the Blue Mountain Action Council, provides home loans with no interest, and common house repairs such as roof replacement, heating/cooling system installation and electrical and plumbing improvements, to citizens with low to moderate incomes. CDBG will put $55,750 toward that effort this year.

CDBG will provide a total of $140,000 in funding for the construction of a teen center being built by BMAC.

The center will include a six-bed homeless youth shelter for youths ages 13-17, to be operated by Catholic Charities; The Health Center for Lincoln High School students; and a Childrens Home Society child-care facility.

With $35,000 in CDBG funding, Public Works employees will install a flashing pedestrian crossing at the intersection of 12th Avenue and Poplar Street to help Blue Ridge Elementary School students get to class more safely.

$20,000 in alley lighting will be installed in the Washington Park, Blue Ridge and Edith and Carrie neighborhoods. Homeowners in those neighborhoods can apply for lighting by emailing me at jbeckmeyer@wallawallawa.gov, or contacting Commitment to Community.

Habitat for Humanity will build three new affordable homes for families in the Edith and Carrie neighborhood.

A $31,500 contribution will go toward purchasing the land for the homes. Applications are currently being accepted by Habitat for Humanity for two of the homes.

More information and applications are available at ubne.ws/2oMY96i.

In 2018, approximately $50,000 in CDBG funds will be available for small-business loans with the goal of creating new jobs for low- to moderate-income individuals.

I am now accepting applications for these funds.

The infusion of federal funding into these local CDBG projects wont make headlines, but it makes a big difference to an elderly homeowner who cant afford to fix a roof, or a disabled person who has difficulty navigating a curb in a wheelchair, or a child who has to cross one of the busiest streets on the way to school, or a neighborhood that has been routinely victimized by criminals under the cover of darkness.

To apply for funding, please email me.

Jennifer Beckmeyer is the city of Walla Walla Community Development Block Grant coordinator.

Read the original post:
Community Development Block Grant program benefits Walla Walla's least privileged, most vulnerable citizens - Walla Walla Union-Bulletin

by Jon Wayne Service Company

Call for immediate service: (210) 293-6700

Many San Antonio home owners struggle with the dilemma of whether to repair or replace their current air conditioning system. Obviously, if the cost to get the unit back up and running is minor, then that may be a good option, but here are some factors you should consider before investing more repair dollars into your existing unit.

Heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old. Consider replacing a HVAC unit that old with a high-efficiency model. Installed correctly, high-efficiency units can have a dramatic impact on your electric bill and actually pay for themselves over time.

Equipment needs frequent repairs. Frequent repairs are a sign that your old unit has reached the end of its life and is just worn out. Continuing to pay for more repairs is only prolonging the inevitable. The sooner you replace a unit in this condition, the sooner your energy bills will improve, which can end up paying for the new system and saving you money in the future.

Energy bills are very high. Your air conditioning system makes up as much as 60% of your utility bill each month. Older, inefficient systems use more electricity to deliver the same comfort level as current high-efficiency units do. It is not uncommon for our customers to report dramatic drops in their energy bills after we install their new system. Although each home is different, 50% reductions in utility bills (from the same time period during the previous year) have been reported.

Some rooms are too hot or too cold. These kinds of problems are usually the result of an improperly engineered system when the home was built or when the last unit was installed. A well trained technician can diagnose hot/cold spots in your house and determine if the problem is related to the unit's size (tons), inadequate insulation, improper duct work or some combination of these. You definitely want to have a Jon Wayne technicians perform a Complete Home Evaluation to make sure these problems are dealt with properly.

Home has humidity problems. Poor equipment operation, inadequate installation, improperly sized unit, and leaky ductwork can all cause the air in your home to be too dry in the winter and too humid in the summer. Again you will want a Jon Wayne technician to perform a Complete Home Evaluation to determine the cause and eliminate it completely.

Home has excessive dust. Leaky ducts can pull particles from your attic and crawl spaces and distribute them throughout your home. Sealing existing ducts or, if the duct work in your home is in poor condition, replacing your ductwork can be beneficial.

Heating and cooling system is noisy. Noisy units can be caused by a variety of factors including an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

No two homes are exactly alike and as such, the only way to really know if repairing your HVAC system is the best option is to have a qualified Jon Wayne Comfort Advisor evaluate your home and explain to you their findings. In addition to a visual inspection of your equipment and attic space, we will also perform a Manual J Load calculation which uses information about your San Antonio area home (overall dimensions, window location, orientation to the sun, etc.) to determine the proper equipment needed to cool your home most efficiently. If serious issues exist (like rooms too hot or cold) we can perform a Blower Door Test which simulates pressure within your home and uncovers problems areas so they can be resolved.

Call for immediate service: (210) 293-6700 or click on jonwayneair.com

Originally posted here:
Repair vs. Replace? - FOX 29

Students often attribute the rise in tuition to the renovations of the Quad residence halls, but what they do not realize are the strides Wake Forest is taking to reduce energy use and become a more sustainable campus.

The most recent completed renovation took place in Kitchin Hall, and as a result of improvements is more efficient in terms of overall energy consumption.

Kitchin feels fresh, secure, put together, just nothing seems wrong with it, said sophomore Mike Yurgelun, a current resident there. I have no complaints.

Were looking for anomalies, said Doug Ecklund the Building Systems Manager at WFU. Theres always an opportunity to do something better.

While students enjoy living in this newly renovated residence hall, they do not realize the long lasting implications these improvements can have on the environment. Some students may take a class or two on sustainability, but many are not exposed to the reality of climate change.

According to the Public Library of Science, more than 70% of primary energy used in education buildings in the U.S. is used for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and water heating. If universities nationwide took steps to reduce their carbon footprint, we could be a part of the effort to slow the warming of our planet.

Students are constantly wanting to move into the newest residence hall just because it has new facilities and they dont care about the energy conservation, said senior Sarah Landis. Things that directly affect people are what students are going to notice more.

Maybe if Wake had some sort of requirement to take a class on sustainability, students would become more aware of how their actions directly affect the environment, said senior Daria Ruiz.

According to World Wide Energy, lately many college campuses are changing over to LED lighting because it not only cuts utility costs, but also provides brighter lighting increasing the safety of students walking during nighttime hours.

The interior lighting is LED, which uses very little electricity, has a one year payback period, and has a 10+ year life meaning were throwing away less light bulbs, said Ecklund in regards to energy consumption in Kitchin.

There is occupancy sensing for these lights, which is important because students tend to leave their lights on when leaving their rooms not recognizing the impact this may have long-term.

I lived in Poteat pre-renovation, Kitchins twin building, and remember a lot of people going to bed with their hall lights on, said Ruiz.

Before and after the renovation during occupied periods, Kitchin is showing a 19% reduction in energy use that can be attributed to the enhancements in the building, said Ecklund. Our goal is to analyze the buildings closely and focus on the worst ones.

According to Ecklund, other improvements made to reduce energy consumption are the installation of variable speed fans on the room heating and cooling units, the installation of reduced flow showers and fixtures and the ability of facilities to adjust room temperatures remotely during breaks.

Landis described her experience living in Kitchin pre-renovation as the air being damp so residents would request individual dehumidifiers, and remembers her suitemate having an insect problem.

The air quality was improved with the installation of basement dehumidifiers and the re-insulation of attic spaces, building piping, and ductwork, said Ecklund in regards to the renovation. The university does a lot to prevent mold growth.

Ecklund explained the Direct Digital Controls (DDC) that is connected to central campus and how it helps facilities monitor and control the efficiency of each building. In each mechanical room there are steam, water, and electric meters.

The retrocommissioning of building systems on campus is coming soon, an initiative to bring back design specifications and to operate as originally intended, said Ecklund about the future of this campus and sustainability.

Although the sustainable efforts are not being recognized as much in residence halls as in food locations such as the Pit, it is a matter of time and spreading awareness for more students to under the implications and take action.

Im glad these renovations can encourage students to act in a way that reduces our energy usage and therefore helps the environment, said Yurgelun.

More here:
Quad renovations promote energy efficiency - Old Gold & Black

by Jon Wayne Service Company

Call for immediate service: (210) 293-6700

Many San Antonio home owners struggle with the dilemma of whether to repair or replace their current air conditioning system. Obviously, if the cost to get the unit back up and running is minor, then that may be a good option, but here are some factors you should consider before investing more repair dollars into your existing unit.

Heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old. Consider replacing a HVAC unit that old with a high-efficiency model. Installed correctly, high-efficiency units can have a dramatic impact on your electric bill and actually pay for themselves over time.

Equipment needs frequent repairs. Frequent repairs are a sign that your old unit has reached the end of its life and is just worn out. Continuing to pay for more repairs is only prolonging the inevitable. The sooner you replace a unit in this condition, the sooner your energy bills will improve, which can end up paying for the new system and saving you money in the future.

Energy bills are very high. Your air conditioning system makes up as much as 60% of your utility bill each month. Older, inefficient systems use more electricity to deliver the same comfort level as current high-efficiency units do. It is not uncommon for our customers to report dramatic drops in their energy bills after we install their new system. Although each home is different, 50% reductions in utility bills (from the same time period during the previous year) have been reported.

Some rooms are too hot or too cold. These kinds of problems are usually the result of an improperly engineered system when the home was built or when the last unit was installed. A well trained technician can diagnose hot/cold spots in your house and determine if the problem is related to the unit's size (tons), inadequate insulation, improper duct work or some combination of these. You definitely want to have a Jon Wayne technicians perform a Complete Home Evaluation to make sure these problems are dealt with properly.

Home has humidity problems. Poor equipment operation, inadequate installation, improperly sized unit, and leaky ductwork can all cause the air in your home to be too dry in the winter and too humid in the summer. Again you will want a Jon Wayne technician to perform a Complete Home Evaluation to determine the cause and eliminate it completely.

Home has excessive dust. Leaky ducts can pull particles from your attic and crawl spaces and distribute them throughout your home. Sealing existing ducts or, if the duct work in your home is in poor condition, replacing your ductwork can be beneficial.

Heating and cooling system is noisy. Noisy units can be caused by a variety of factors including an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

No two homes are exactly alike and as such, the only way to really know if repairing your HVAC system is the best option is to have a qualified Jon Wayne Comfort Advisor evaluate your home and explain to you their findings. In addition to a visual inspection of your equipment and attic space, we will also perform a Manual J Load calculation which uses information about your San Antonio area home (overall dimensions, window location, orientation to the sun, etc.) to determine the proper equipment needed to cool your home most efficiently. If serious issues exist (like rooms too hot or cold) we can perform a Blower Door Test which simulates pressure within your home and uncovers problems areas so they can be resolved.

Call for immediate service: (210) 293-6700 or click on jonwayneair.com

Continued here:
Repair vs. Replace? - WOAI

Winter was over before Phoenix residents even had a chance to turn on their heaters. Springs has sprung which means the people of the Valley of the Sun have been enjoying near perfection in terms of weather. Conditions wont stay ideal for long. Soon summer will arrive, and temperatures will rocket above 100 degrees. Parker & Sons advises that the best time to have a new HVAC unit installed is BEFORE summer. Parker & Sons offers further advice on HVAC installation.

Homeowners should start by doing extensive research. There are many factors to consider when shopping for a new HVAC system. Older homes may have different heating and cooling needs than newer homes. It is important by buy the correct sized HVAC system. A system which is too small will be inadequate in terms of meeting heating and cooling. A system which is too large will be wasteful. HVAC installers can perform a load assessment on the home to determine what sized HVAC unit is required.

Energy efficiency is an important consideration. The efficiency of an air conditioner is measured by its SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). As technology improves the minimum required SEER rating rises. Currently, a SEER rating of 13 is the minimum.

Homeowners may have to make a decision balancing upfront cost and energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating of the unit, the more expensive it is going to be. Many utility companies provide rebates to homes with an air conditioning unit rated about 14.5 SEER.

Finally, Parker & Sons advises homeowners to spend time shopping around and comparing offers. This is one of the primary reasons it is important to spend time shopping for an HVAC unit before summer. There wont be pressure for individuals to make a fast decision. The find a deal that is right for them AND their family.

Here at Parker & Sons, we will walk through the entire process of shipping for an HVAC unit, picking out the right one for you and your home, and installing it for you. We take a no pressure approach to this entire process. We know buying a new HVAC unit is a big commitment. WE just want to be there to help you out. We want this to be a relationship that lasts for years, not just through the sale of an HVAC unit, said Justine Kelly of Parker & Sons.

Read more from the original source:
Parker & Sons Offers Advice on Getting the Most out of HVAC Installation - MilTech

ABOVE:David Finkle, Executive Director of the Strand Theatre in downtown Shelbyville, stands in front of the restoredmarquee along Harrison Street.

SHELBYVILLE, Ind. An effort to restore an historic theatre in downtown Shelbyville is facing scrutiny by inspectors with the state fire marshals office and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.

Cinema Three at 215 S. Harrison Street closed in 2005 after a new theatre had opened at an old Kroger store on East State Road 44. The building sat vacant for several years until a non-profit group, led by David Finkle, decided to acquire, renovate and operate the theatre in 2008. The group decided to rename it 'The Strand Theatre,'which was its original name when it first opened in 1916.

The first thing we had to do was renovate. It started out as a pretty horrible three-screen theatre. It wasnt going to do what we needed it to do, and we were going to be a live performance venue, not a film venue. Were going to be a multi-use performing arts center, says Finkle.

Little by little, the electrical work was redone, the heating and cooling system sitting at the back of the stage was replaced and part of the front lobby was torn apart and remodeled.

The volunteers then began a plan to expand the size of the theatres stage and cut a six-foot six emergency exit that would lead to the back alley behind the building in case of a fire. That is when Finkle says the issues with the states inspectors began.

This past year in August 2016, we had a new inspector. For some reason, all that work in the past didnt seem to be what he wanted. When he looked at the work for our fire exit, he made requirements of the Strand which were economically infeasible; things requiring us to do that were over triple the cost of the worth of our building, says Finkle, who says previous inspectors from the state office had given their approval. However, the current inspector was requiring the Strand to install a sprinkler system throughout the building.

We said we didnt think that was right, and [the senior staff from the state fire marshals office] was here for a meeting. That meeting ended up in November 2016 turning into an inspection. The outcome of that inspection was they rescinded our Construction Design Release for this new fire exit and the expansion of our stage. We didnt quite understand why, says Finkle.

The Strand asked a local attorney to appeal that decision.

Before it went in front of the judge, the state canceled the [previous rescinded decision], says Finkle, who thought that would be the last issue the theatre would face from inspectors.

Out of the blue, we got a request from the state fire marshals office to do a Construction Progress Inspection. We called around to find out what that was all about and there was not a contractor, an engineering firm, and architectural firm [or] anybody that had ever heard of such a thing, according to Finkle.

In December 2016, Finkle says the same original inspector took another look at the building.

We told them theres nothing to inspect. We havent done any work, says Finkle.

The inspectors issued two new violations against the Strand Theatre. The first was for not having a Construction Design Release for the electrical panels installed in 2009. The second violation was for the replacement of the heating and cooling system in 2015 and 2016 that was also done without a Construction Design Release approval from the state.

We checked with both of our contractors. [They say] theyve never had to go through the state on items like this. Both projects were locally permitted [and] inspected. The local inspectors would have guided us toward that process had they thought it was necessary. We wonder why were singled out on it, says Finkle.

According to Finkle, the state inspector has threatened the Strand Theatre with a $250 a day violation per fine, which would equal $3,500 a week if levied against the non-profit organization. Finkle says the theatre plans to appeal.

93 WIBC attempted to contact James Greeson, the Indiana State Fire Marshal, to ask for his response to the inspections and violations suggested against the Strand Theatre in Shelbyville. An e-mail from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security Public Information Office was sent to 93 WIBC asking to submit questions in writing.

As of Sunday, April 2, the office has yet to provide answers to the following questions from 93 WIBC, which were submitted via e-mail to the return address from the Indiana Department of Homeland on Wednesday, March 29:

1) A representative from the Strand Theatre says that in Dec. 2016, the State Fire Marshalls office performed a Construction Progress Inspection on the property. Are those types of inspections required of every building that is going through ongoing upgrades?

2) Is it common for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to require the installation of a sprinkler system in order to finish work on a previously approved State Design Release, such as the one granted to the Strand Theatre for the installation of a new fire exit?

3) A representative from the Strand Theatre also says the previous inspector(s) with the State Fire Marshals office responsible for regular inspections of the property did not ask for or communicate the requirement of Construction Design Permits for HVAC work done in 2008 and electrical work done in 2015 and 2016? Were these permits required as far back as 2008?

4) How does the Indiana Department of Homeland Security respond to those who would say that the recent requests made of the inspector from the State Fire Marshals office, as well as the suggestion of a $500 a day fine for violations, put an undue financial burden upon a non-profit organization with limited funds such as The Strand Theatre in Shelbyville seeking to provide an economic benefit to the community?

Finkle says no performances are scheduled after this summer due to the uncertainty whether the non-profit organization running the theatre can continue to operate with the threat of fines from the state, as well as the legal costs of having to appeal any such violations.

We hope to find this is common practice throughout the state, because if that is the case then we just have to do what we have to do, says Finkle. But if it is not common practice, then we might have a little problem.

CLICK BELOW TO HEAR DAVID FINKLE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STRAND THEATRE, TALK ABOUT THE THEATRE AND THE ISSUES IT HAS FACEDWITH INSPECTORS FROM THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL'S OFFICE:

93 WIBCS C.J. MILLER REPORTING.

Twitter: @CJMillerWIBC

Photo Credit: C.J. Miller / WIBC

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Shelbyville Theatre In Conflict With State Over Fire Inspections - 93.1 WIBC Indianapolis