Archive for 'Green'
Get Lower Utility Bills with the Right Faucet
Posted on 22. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Paying bills is one of the biggest headaches that can confront the household. This is quite a heavy reality because bills often take the bulk of the budget. It isn’t easy to say goodbye to your hard-earned money. Since utility services aren’t going to cheapen anytime soon, it is best to seek strategies that will lower your bills. One effective way is to get your faucets checked. Make sure that your money isn’t dripping down the drain.
The Problem with a Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet is a big threat encountered by most households. People tend to look on the electricity or system aspect. They forget that the most used part of their kitchens and baths can also contribute to their big expenses. Through regular use, faucets tend to wear and tear. You may notice that after closing the faucet properly, water may still drip. This is a sign that you need to replace your faucet soon.
When faucets drip, water continues to be released even if you aren’t using it. The tiny drips that may seem inconsiderable at one glance can actually mean gallons of water if you let days pass without addressing the problem. That means extra bucks out of your budget. Thus, you have to make sure that your faucets aren’t dripping.
It is easy to figure out this problem. Dripping water makes a sound when it hits the sink. You can also check your faucet when not in use. When there is water in the spout of the faucet, then some water can be leaking out even if there is no dripping action. These signs should prompt you to get a replacement soon. You can even hire services to have your faucets properly checked if you want to be sure.
Types of Faucets for Replacement
Faucets that aren’t in good condition require replacement. It is best to choose your purchase properly. Get a replacement that will be more efficient for your household use. Make sure it is the type that won’t be dripping anytime soon. Of course, it should also go along with the rest of the kitchen or bath design. Know the different faucet types to get the best pick and effectively lower your utility bills.
Ball Faucets
This is a very common type. It can be found in most households. It has a single handle that is placed over a round cap, just above the spout. The ball faucet is the type that you have to be cautious with as it tends to leak more easily compared to others but they are very affordable. Thus you can easily replace them. If you think your household companions tend to be careless, then it isn’t a good idea to use the ball faucet.
Compression Faucets
These are quite old when it comes to faucet types. There is a different handle for the hot and cold water. Both handles have to be tightened to ensure that water is secured. It requires additional effort to seal the water flow by compressing the washer. This is a good choice if you are keen in adjusting properly the temperature according to your needs. You might want to think twice about the added compression needed to secure the water from dripping. They can leak eventually but they are easy to repair.
Disc Faucets
The disc faucets can be identified by the single handle attached to a cylindrical body. It operates through the two ceramic discs that control the water flow. It can also control the temperature of the water released. They tend to be a good choice against leak and dripping problems. This type requires very low maintenance but it can be quite pricey.
Cartridge Faucets
You can identify cartridge faucets by trying to operate it. If the lever has to be moved up and down to let the water flow and right and left for temperature adjustments, then it is this type. This is very convenient for operation. You can easily move the lever for opening and sealing. This tends to last more although it can be an expensive purchase.
Conclusion
Dripping problems shouldn’t be ignored. Make sure your faucets are regularly checked so you can immediately effect a replacement if needed. Choose also the right type of faucet that you will install for replacement. Through these steps, you are ensured of paying lower utility bills.
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Off-Grid Solar Electric System Explained
Posted on 21. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
If you have ever dreamed of being completely energy independent, then your ultimate goal is to live “off grid”. Most people who live off grid are located in remote areas where electric utility service is not even available. But more and more people are considering it as a personal lifestyle choice.
There are two main factors involved in living off-grid. First, you’ll need to become very aware of when and how you use electricity. You won’t have to live without it, but you won’t want to waste it, either.
Second, you’ll want to become familiar with how your solar power system works, and what kind of maintenance is required. It would be best if you become an expert on your particular system, so you can troubleshoot anything unexpected that arises. Becoming an expert is not that hard to do since there is so much information on solar energy available now. But it will require time and commitment on your part.
A basic off-grid system is made up of 9 components.
First, the photovoltaic array and mounting rack. Wikipedia describes the array as “a linked collection of photovoltaic modules, which are in turn made of multiple interconnected solar cells”. The mounting rack allows you to attach them the roof and point them toward the sun.
Second, the array DC disconnect. This is basically a breaker between the array and the rest of the system. It allows you to disconnect from the system in order to troubleshoot problems with the array.
Third, the charge controller keeps the batteries from overcharging.
Fourth, the battery bank stores excess electricity. You will usually need enough batteries for 2-3 days worth of stored electricity in case of a cloudy period.
Fifth, the system meter is like your car’s dashboard. It reports how the various components in your system are doing,
Sixth, is the main DC disconnect. This is a breaker between the storage batteries and the inverter.
Seventh, is the inverter. This is the component that transforms the DC (direct current) electricity, which is generated by the array and stored in the batteries, into the AC (alternating current) electricity that can be used by your household appliances.
Eighth, the AC breaker panel. This is the same kind of breaker panel that the electric company uses to connect your house wiring to its electrical source.
Ninth, your backup generator. This is in case you have a stretch of cloudy days that outlast the electricity stored in the batteries. You can use traditional fossil fuels, but you’ll probably want to use biodiesel to maintain your green lifestyle.
Now that you’ve seen the components of the photovoltaic system, you can see why it’s not that complicated to become your own expert. Each component is relatively simple. The only moving parts are in the backup generator, and you hopefully won’t be using that very much.
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Green Cleaning With Baking Soda - 437
Posted on 21. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Would you like to cut down on using synthetic chemical products to clean your home? Chemicals used in synthetic cleaners contribute to indoor air pollution. Studies show that the air quality inside of our homes is often worse than outdoor air, even when we live in areas that have air pollution.
This is because there are so many toxic chemicals used in processing the building materials, the walls, the floor coverings, the cabinets and the furniture in today’s houses. It’s hard to avoid them, but you don’t have to add to them when you clean. Just by making a couple of substitutions, you can keep your home a little greener. And you won’t have to spend a lot of money.
You probably already know that you can use baking soda to keep your refrigerator smelling fresh. But there are lots of other ways to use this inexpensive but versatile product. Mix it with a little water or vinegar, grab a soft cloth and baking soda can clean a lot more of your house than you ever thought possible.
You can replace chemical scouring powders that you use to clean your counter tops, stove tops, bathroom fixtures, shower tiles, and even your grungy pots and pans. Use a paste of baking soda and water on a sponge, and then start scrubbing just like you would with a chemical cleanser. The baking soda will get scum off of your bathroom tiles and even the toughest burned on food off of your pots and pans. It actually gets the grime up faster than artificial cleaners, and doesn’t leave behind any chemical residues or odors. This is especially good for kitchen surfaces that come into contact with food that you prepare.
You can replace glass cleaners with a paste made of baking soda and a little white vinegar. Use a soft cloth or old newspaper. This trick will make your windows, mirrors and glass-topped tables sparkle, and leave your rooms smelling fresh.
You can even replace your toilet bowl cleaner by adding a little baking soda and vinegar to the bowl. Stir it up and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then scrub with your toilet brush as usual. Your toilet will be clean, with no lingering chemical fumes in your bathroom.
It’s no wonder that all of the uses of baking soda are such a well-kept secret. The companies that make chemical cleansers will lose millions if people realize they’re not needed. But now that you know about baking soda, you can save yourself some money. And at the same time, you can clean up your indoor air.
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Remodel Your Home Green in Five Easy Steps
Posted on 20. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
The easiest ways to turn an existing house into an eco-friendly green house are to increase energy efficiency and to use green materials when you remodel. Here are some ideas to think about while you’re in the planning stages.
First, replace your old appliances with Energy Star appliances. These are specifically manufactured to save energy and lower your utility bills. Your refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, microwave, and washer and dryer are all available in energy-efficient models. While some models may cost a little more up front, the yearly savings over the life of your new appliance can be well worth it.
Second, replace your old 30 or 40 gallon hot water heater with tankless hot water heaters. These are small water heaters mounted on the wall where you actually use the hot water. They heat the water as you need it, like an electric kettle, instead of keeping 30 or 40 gallons on simmer for 24 hours a day. These devices have been widely and successfully used in Europe for more than 40 years, but they are just now arriving to the United States.
Third, replace your counter tops, shelving, interior doors and wood laminate flooring with low VOC materials. This means that the new materials do not off gas toxic chemicals into the air that can irritate sensitive eyes and lungs. Your indoor air quality and your health will both be improved.
Fourth, landscape with local native plants that will grow with natural rainwater. Consider extending the native plants into you entire yard, and eliminating high-maintenance sod and lawns. This may seem drastic at first, but more and more people will be choosing this option as the cost of watering your lawn goes higher. Some neighborhoods in drought prone regions already enforce water restrictions. By choosing to xeriscape, which means using natural, native low-water plants, you won’t have to worry about watering your lawn.
Fifth, replace your flooring with natural, renewable materials like bamboo and cork. Not only are these materials trendy and attractive, you won’t be contributing to the clear-cutting of old growth forests. Instead of synthetic wall to wall carpeting that is not biodegradable, use natural fibers like sisal, jute or hemp for area rugs.
These are just a few ideas for using energy efficient and eco-friendly products in your home remodeling projects. The good news is that more and more consumers are requesting green building materials, so they’re now readily available at most local hardware stores. If not, it’s always easy to find these types of products online.
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Get Lower Utility Bills with the Right Faucet
Posted on 19. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Paying bills is one of the biggest headaches that can confront the household. This is quite a heavy reality because bills often take the bulk of the budget. It isn’t easy to say goodbye to your hard-earned money. Since utility services aren’t going to cheapen anytime soon, it is best to seek strategies that will lower your bills. One effective way is to get your faucets checked. Make sure that your money isn’t dripping down the drain.
The Problem with a Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet is a big threat encountered by most households. People tend to look on the electricity or system aspect. They forget that the most used part of their kitchens and baths can also contribute to their big expenses. Through regular use, faucets tend to wear and tear. You may notice that after closing the faucet properly, water may still drip. This is a sign that you need to replace your faucet soon.
When faucets drip, water continues to be released even if you aren’t using it. The tiny drips that may seem inconsiderable at one glance can actually mean gallons of water if you let days pass without addressing the problem. That means extra bucks out of your budget. Thus, you have to make sure that your faucets aren’t dripping.
It is easy to figure out this problem. Dripping water makes a sound when it hits the sink. You can also check your faucet when not in use. When there is water in the spout of the faucet, then some water can be leaking out even if there is no dripping action. These signs should prompt you to get a replacement soon. You can even hire services to have your faucets properly checked if you want to be sure.
Types of Faucets for Replacement
Faucets that aren’t in good condition require replacement. It is best to choose your purchase properly. Get a replacement that will be more efficient for your household use. Make sure it is the type that won’t be dripping anytime soon. Of course, it should also go along with the rest of the kitchen or bath design. Know the different faucet types to get the best pick and effectively lower your utility bills.
Ball Faucets
This is a very common type. It can be found in most households. It has a single handle that is placed over a round cap, just above the spout. The ball faucet is the type that you have to be cautious with as it tends to leak more easily compared to others but they are very affordable. Thus you can easily replace them. If you think your household companions tend to be careless, then it isn’t a good idea to use the ball faucet.
Compression Faucets
These are quite old when it comes to faucet types. There is a different handle for the hot and cold water. Both handles have to be tightened to ensure that water is secured. It requires additional effort to seal the water flow by compressing the washer. This is a good choice if you are keen in adjusting properly the temperature according to your needs. You might want to think twice about the added compression needed to secure the water from dripping. They can leak eventually but they are easy to repair.
Disc Faucets
The disc faucets can be identified by the single handle attached to a cylindrical body. It operates through the two ceramic discs that control the water flow. It can also control the temperature of the water released. They tend to be a good choice against leak and dripping problems. This type requires very low maintenance but it can be quite pricey.
Cartridge Faucets
You can identify cartridge faucets by trying to operate it. If the lever has to be moved up and down to let the water flow and right and left for temperature adjustments, then it is this type. This is very convenient for operation. You can easily move the lever for opening and sealing. This tends to last more although it can be an expensive purchase.
Conclusion
Dripping problems shouldn’t be ignored. Make sure your faucets are regularly checked so you can immediately effect a replacement if needed. Choose also the right type of faucet that you will install for replacement. Through these steps, you are ensured of paying lower utility bills.