Water Heaters Get Solar

The solar revolution is here.  This is your guide to the pros and cons of solar water heaters and their different types.

Hot water is among the top energy consumers in American households.  Solar energy can help bring this cost down.  With today’s advanced technology and energy efficiency tax breaks, going solar is more cost effective than ever. Installing a stand alone solar water heating system can totally eliminate your gas or electric consumption for hot water.  The prospect of free fuel is a tempting one.  These days, that prospect is more realistic than ever.

Doing The Math

A stand-alone solar water heating system could replace a conventional electric hot water heater that uses about 15 kilowatt hours of energy per day. Putting a solar heater on your roof offsets about 15 kilowatt hours worth of energy per day from other sources.  This translates into a savings of 450 kilowatt hours of energy every month on your water heater alone.  The average cost of energy in the US, as of April 2009, was $.12 per kilowatt hour.  A solar water heater can save you up to $54 per month, or $648 per year.  Imagine how quickly your solar water heater will pay for itself.

Pros and Cons of Solar Water Heaters

There are many options to consider with solar water heating.  As a general rule, the higher the upfront cost of a solar water heater, the greater the long-term savings.  Also, a solar water heating system has an average lifespan of 20 years.  This is almost three times longer than a conventional electric or gas powered water heater.  You will replace your conventional water heater 2 or 3 times before you need a new solar water heater.

How Solar Water Heaters Work

Solar water heaters have two main parts: the collector and the circulation system.  The collector gathers the solar energy and coverts it to heat energy for the water.  The circulation system stores the hot water and delivers it to your tap.  The collectors and the circulation systems exist in several combinations.  Use the following basic facts to start your research.

Three types of collector

1.Batch Collectors.  Batch collectors heat water in a dark tank inside of an insulated box.  Water is stored in the collector until you need it.  If demand is low, water can become very hot.  So hot that you may need to install a damper valve to prevent scalding at the tap.  Batch collectors are the simplest solar water heater systems, ideal for warmer climates.

2.Flat Plate Collectors.  Flat plate collectors are usually made out of a series of small copper tubes fitted underneath flat absorber plates.  The flat plate is protected in an insulated box and covered with tempered glass, to extract as much solar energy as possible.  The average flat plate collector holds about 40 gallons of water.

3.Evacuated Tube Collectors.  Evacuated tube collectors are the most efficient.  They consist of glass or metal tubes that contain the water or a heat transfer liquid.  These tubes are surrounded by larger glass tubes.  The space between the inner tube and the outer tube is a vacuum, providing excellent insulation against heat loss.  Evacuated tube collectors are effective in even the coldest weather as long as they can get light.

Four Types of Circulation Systems

1.Direct.  Direct circulation systems are simplest and most common in climates that do not experience much freezing.  Water is usually heated in the collector itself then stored in a tank or delivered directly from the collector to the your tap.

2.Indirect.  Indirect, or Closed-loop circulation systems are better for colder climates, where freezing is more common.  They use and anti-freezing liquid to transfer the heat from the sun to the water, which stays in storage tanks.

3.Active.  Active circulation systems use electric pumps to move the water from the collectors to a storage tank, then to your tap.

4.Passive.  Passive circulation systems use convection to move water to a storage tank as it heats up.  No pumps are required.

The sun’s cheap, renewable energy is good for the environment and good for your bank account.  Going solar has a bigger upfront cost than staying with power station electricity or natural gas.  But after set up, the fuel is free and the solar water heater will last three times longer than a conventional water heater. With the right tax credits and the right installation company, solar power pays for itself in about five years. If you are a homeowner, that is no time at all.  After this time, your hot water will essentially be free, produced on your premises.

Replacement Window Tax Credit

With new energy efficiency tax credits, the time for replacement windows is now.  Here’s how to choose the right windows.

In February of 2009, the President enacted a bunch of energy tax credits as part of his American Reinvestment and Recovery Plan.  This legislation is great for the American homeowner.  Some basic remodeling will increase the energy efficiency of your home may earn you up to a 30% tax credit.  One of the easiest and most effective renovations a homeowner can perform is to install replacement windows.

Recent developments in replacement window materials and manufacture have made them more attractive energy efficient than ever.  Compared to other forms of beautification and insulation, replacement windows require little labor.  On top of the tax credit for buying them, replacement windows immediately start bringing down your heating and cooling bills.

It’s settled.  Now what?

By installing replacement windows this year you stand to gain a tax credit and immediate energy bill savings.  Only one question remains:  Where to start?  Start by considering the replacement window options available to you.  There is a lot of versatility in replacement windows.  You do not need to install a window type identical to the one you are removing.

Learn your window frames and types.

Do your homework. Have a talk with an architect or designer about the style of your home.  Ask questions about frames.  Aluminum frames are inexpensive, but insulate poorly.  Aluminum frames will need a thermal break.  Wooden frames insulate well and have an elegant look, but will cost more.  Additionally, vinyl and fiberglass frames offer the greatest insulation at the lowest cost.  Many consumers choose vinyl or fiberglass frames.

Know your six window types.  Which types are eligible for the tax credit?  Ask your supplier.  The old Energy Star rating may not be enough.  These simple steps will help you decide on the best replacement windows.

6 types of replacement windows.

1. Casement windows.  Casement windows are large panel, often crank operated, windows.  They swing open similar to a door.  They offer lots of natural light and a broad view of outside.  Casement windows can be cleaned on each side from inside your home.  If you get the right kind, they can be very energy efficient.

2. Awning windows.  Awning windows are hinged windows, similar to casement windows.  But they do not open from the side like a door.  Awning windows swing open outward from the top.  These are the one of the oldest type of window still in use.  They are great for letting in fresh air during any weather.  They open like an awning, so even rainwater is kept out while fresh air comes in.

3. Double Hung windows.  Probably the most popular windows, double hung windows contain two vertical sashes.  These sashes slide up and down along independent grooves.  You can open the top half or the bottom half of double hung windows.  Because of the popularity and effectiveness of double hung windows, they are available in just about any size or color.  Typical double hung windows are a very common shape and size.  This means new double hungs will often fit into your existing window frames, if they are in good condition.  Another cost saver on installation.

4. Gliding windows.  Gliding windows are also known as horizontal slider windows.  These are the types of windows associated with sliding patio doors.  Gliding windows can also be used nicely in bedroom and living rooms.  They are similar to double hung windows, but they open from the left or right, rather than the top of bottom.

5. Picture and Transom windows.  These are accent windows.  Picture and transom windows are stationary windows that do not open.  They are found over doorways or other larger opening windows, like double hungs.  Picture and transom windows increase and brighten your view of the outdoors, without any moving hardware.

6. Bow and Bay windows.  Bow and bay windows create more interior space, quickly making a room bigger and brighter.  They are installed in groups from three to six windows.  Bow and bay windows sweep in an attractive arch away from the room.  Casement and double hung windows are the most common components of bow or bay windows.  Bay windows often have a bench installed along the bottom so you can sit and admire the view outside.  They are an excellent way to beautify and expand a room.

Now that you are armed with information, cash in on the energy efficiency tax credit this year.  Get those drafty old windows out of your lovely home.  Do yourself and your home a favor by installing replacement windows.  Remember, the credit is only allowable for windows purchased and installed during 2009 and 2010.  For information about home improvement and the new tax credits, visit http://www.buildingcompanynumber7.com

How to Choose Flooring That Is Right For You

The Best Flooring – How To Choose
With so many flooring material choices, here are three questions and five materials to guide you.
If you are planning to remodel a room in your home, you will inevitably come upon the question of flooring. The floor is the whole room. Don’t remodel a room without considering the best flooring for your vision of the new room. There are three questions and five materials to keep in mind as you choose flooring.
The Three Questions:
1. What type of room is it? Does the room get a lot of humidity? Kitchen and bathroom floors will need more frequent cleaning than any other room in the house. They are also more likely to get spills. Bedrooms need to be quieter and warmer than living rooms or kitchens. This requires a material that absorbs more sound. What is the architectural style of the room? Certain flooring materials are more fitting than others according to the size of the room, height of the ceiling and even the texture of the walls.
2. What kind of traffic will the room get? Are you remodeling a room where kids and pets will spend a lot of time? Perhaps you need a softer, or less absorbent material. Is the room an office for a working adult? Does the room have a doorway leading outside? Estimate the volume of traffic the room will get. This helps you decide what kind of floor is best for that room. Higher traffic means more frequent cleaning.
3. What is your budget? Different flooring materials can have vastly different prices. Once you make considerations about the type of room and the traffic in the room, consider the five flooring materials listed below. Organize them according to how much you are prepared to spend.
The Five Materials – Wood, Laminate, Vinyl, Ceramic/Stone, or Carpet?
Wood. Hardwood flooring is a popular and elegant choice. It is sturdy and retains its value. These days, wood flooring can be installed over almost any kind of sub-flooring. Hardwood floors add a real classic character to a room. Wood flooring is easier to scratch and gouge in high traffic areas, and it may warp from heat and humidity. Wood flooring comes in three types, strip, longstrip, and plank. Do a little research to see which you like best.
Laminate. Laminate flooring is your best alternative to wood if wood is out of your price range. Laminate is very durable and easy to clean. It also resists stains and fading better than wood. Because of recent manufacturing improvements, laminate can look identical to wood. It is easier to install and replace than wood flooring.
Vinyl. Vinyl flooring is not as popular as wood, but it is extremely durable and versatile. It is also inexpensive, compared to other materials. Recent advances in manufacturing process can make vinyl flooring resemble the texture and look of tile, wood or even stone. Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and can handle rough traffic.
Ceramic/Stone Tile. Ceramic and stone tile are very resistant to traffic, scratches, fire, and water. Ceramic and stone tile is great for kitchens because it does not retain bacteria and odors. Like hardwood, ceramic and stone tiles add value to a home. This material is also in a similar price range with wood. Tile is generally colder on bare feet than any other type of flooring. If choosing tile, consider the size of the tiles and the amount of grout between them, as this will greatly affect the ease of cleaning.
Carpet. Carpet comes in a large selection of colors and textures, much the same way vinyl does. Carpet gives you a floor that is much softer and warmer than any other material. Carpet is also one of the most economical flooring choices on the market today. It is cheaper to buy and install than wood and ceramic/stone. Carpet works well in bedrooms and living rooms, where you may want a cozier atmosphere without paying for the luster of wood.
As you can see, there are many things to consider when choosing flooring. The key is to boil it down to these three questions and these five materials. Once you know your needs and your budget, you can better choose a material for your new room. Remember to ask questions and do your homework. With a little time and reading you will surely find the flooring that is right for you.
If you have further questions about flooring or larger questions about remodeling your home, try contacting http://www.buildingcompany7.com. The site is loaded with free and useful information about home renovation, including a free advice phone number.

7 Questions to Ask Your Remodeling Contractor

1. What type of experience do you have in the field? You want to find out with experience doing the work you are requesting them to do at your home.
2. Can I get references from former clients? Any good contractor will be happy to provide you with references from both previous clients and existing clients.
3. Are you properly licensed and insured? You always want your remodeling contractor to be licensed and make sure they have worker’s compensation and general liability. Make sure they have both before the job is started.
4. How long have you been in business? You don’t want a remodeling contractor that hasn’t been in the business long.
5. Do you guarantee your work? Most companies offer 1 year warranty on completed projects.
6. Are you the foreman on the job? You want to know who is going to be at your house. Ask the contractor if who will be working on your house.
7. Will you provide me with a detailed contact that spells out everything that we discuss? You will want to have documentation that shows exactly what the contactor is doing and how much it will cost.

Tips:
• Check with your state department to make sure you contractor has the proper licensing.
• Check with your local Better Business Bureau
• Ask for a copy of the contactors insurance
• Don’t forget to get copies of a signed contract