TAG Home Performance Blog

4 Products You Don't Want to Miss at the Parade of Homes

Jim Farrell — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 14:00:00 GMT

If you're planning to go to the 2012 Parade of Homes, please stop by to visit us. This year, TAG Home Performance will be in four homes with displays and information about the latest renewable energy technology and whole house generators.

2012 Parade of Homes
at Riverwalk
Clay (Brewerton), NY
September 8 - 23
Monday thru Friday 1PM to 8PM
Saturdays and Sundays 11AM to 6 PM

Get Directions

Dollar Off Admission

Visit These Homes	Learn About These Products
	Generac Whole House Generators
	Earthlinked Geothermal Systems
	Solar Thermal Water Heating Systems
	Solar Electric (PV) Systems

3 Ways a Whole House Generator Can Protect Your Home

Jim Farrell — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 13:00:00 GMT

It's been nearly 14 years since the Labor Day storm struck Central New York. Power was out for days in most areas and nearly two weeks for some. Refrigerators, sump pumps, air conditioning systems and well pumps wouldn't work. Portable generators at home stores were sold out by 11 a.m. This was an extreme storm for CNY, but our area is prone to thunderstorms, high winds and lake effect snow storms that cause power outgages more frequently than we might expect. Only when the power goes out do we realize how crucial it is to have a backup system in place.

Whole House vs. Portable Generator

A whole house (or standby) generator uses either propane or natural gas as fuel. It is connected to your home's fuel source by a permanent line. A whole house generator is essentially a mini-power plant for your house....everything in the house can continue running. In contrast, a portable generator needs to be set up by the homeowner for each use and requires refueling every few hours when in use. There's a good chance when you go to take a portable generator out to be used, the conditions won't be ideal either...it may be dark in the house because the power went out, there may or may not be fuel in the generator and the weather might be bad. In addition, they are usually loud and can emit noxious fumes and carbon monoxide from the fuel. Also, you will only be able to run select circuits on a portable generator...e.g., refrigerator, some lights.

How Much Power Do You Need?

There are three ways a whole house generator can protect your home:

Essential Circuit Coverage Only: The generator can be sized according to the circuits in your home that are of highest importance and you don't want to be without. These would include the heating and cooling system, sump pump, refrigerator, medical equipment and well pump. If you don't want to go without your coffee maker, that circuit can be included as well.

Managed Whole-House Coverage: Because it's highly unlikely you would need to run all appliances and systems at the same time during a power outage, a Managed Whole-House System is a great option to provide power backup that will supply power to the entire home. When the generator approaches maximum capacity, it will continue to power only the essential circuits. Once power requirements for the essential circuits are met, the non-essential circuits will cycle back on.

Complete Whole-House Coverage:This generator will keep everything in your home running with no power interruptions on any circuit.

Benefits of a Whole House Generator

Starts up in seconds once a transfer switch senses the home's power is off. If you are on vacation or away for a period of time, you can rest assured that you won't come home to a flooded basement, frozen pipes or a refrigerator full of spoiled food.
A whole house generator runs quietly outdoors. There are no fuel odors, no carbon monoxide entering your home and nothing you need to manually turn on or off.
For those who depend upon electrically powered medical equipment such as humidifiers, ventilators or refrigeration for medication, a standby generator will ensure a power loss will not prevent these from operating.

A whole house generator should always be installed by a professional. Your contractor will also be able to provide proper sizing based on the size of your home and what circuits you want to be sure to have backup for.

Photo credit: Generac

The CNY Homeowner’s Guide to Solar Electric Power [Free eBook!]

Court Rutherford — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Most Central New York homeowners we talk with are very excited about the possibilities for residential solar electric power. After all, who wouldn’t want to reduce or eliminate their electric utility bill? Plus, technology breakthroughs such as black solar panels, unprecedented tax credits and incentives, and extremely attractive financing options, are giving homeowners more reason to invest now in a solar electric (PV) system. And, many local homeowners are doing just that!

As we meet with homeowners, there are lots of questions about this technology and how it will work in cloudy Syracuse weather conditions. That’s why we wrote “The CNY Homeowner’s Guide to Solar Electric Power”. This guide not only addresses the basics about solar electric power but answers questions such as “Do solar panels really work in Syracuse?”. (The answer is YES, but you’ll need to read the eBook to find out how).

Here’s what you’ll learn by downloading our free 26-page eBook:

How Efficient Are Solar Thermal Water Heating Systems in CNY?

Jim Farrell — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Solar Thermal (ST) is the name for the technology that captures heat from the sun to produce hot water. Heating water accounts for a large portion of a home's energy use. In one year, an 80-gallon electric water heater costs approximately $500 to operate. A natural gas water heater does better, but still accounts for close to $400 per year in energy cost. With a solar thermal water heating system, your water heating bills should drop by as much as 80%. And, because the sun is free, you will never need to worry about a price increase from the utility company.

A concern though for many homeowners when considering solar energy in CNY is whether there are enough sunny days here. You might be surprised to learn that the average number of "sun hours" in Syracuse is nearly 93% of that in Florida...4.2 hours in Syracuse versus 4.5 hours in Florida.¹ Yes, there is enough sun in our area to operate a Solar Thermal Water Heating System in your home.

Active vs. Passive Systems

Essentially there are two types of solar thermal water heating systems: Active and Passive. Passive systems are the simplier of the two and are best suited for warm climates where the water storage tank is not in danger of freezing. An active system is the choice for our area. This type of system stores water in a tank inside your house and uses its pump to move water or a "heat exchange" fluid through a collector on your roof. Collectors are the components of the system that heat the water. The heat exchange fluid is a non-freezing liquid that carries the sun's heat from the roof to your tank, where it transfers the heat to your water. The fluid re-circulates to the roof to be heated again while the water flows on to your tap.

It is recommended that a solar water heating system have a backup system for extended times of cloudy days and times of increased demand. Conventional storage water heaters typically are used for this backup system.

Tax Credits and Incentives

Solar water heating systems are currently eligible for a 30% Federal Personal Income Tax Credit and a 25% New York personal income tax credit. In addition, these systems are eligible for low-interest financing.

¹ Central New York's average yearly sun hours per day is 4.2 hours, while Florida averages 4.5 hours. A sun hour is defined as the number of hours of pure solar radiation available per day based on the average yearly sun hour total.

Photo credit: © Silver-John / Fotolia

What Is Air Sealing?

Jim Farrell — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Air leakage occurs when outside air enters a house uncontrollably through cracks and openings. As much as 40% of a home's energy loss is due to air infiltration.

To measure a building's leakage rate, a blower door test can be performed by a qualified HVAC contractor. A blower door depressurizes a house and exaggerates any leaks, making the leaks easier to measure and locate. Without a blower door test, there are ways to locate airleaks yourself such as holding an incense stick near the edges of common leak sites. Wherever the smoke is sucked out of or blown into the room, there's a draft.

Common areas where air leaks can be found are:

Door and window frames
Electrical and gas service entrances
Drop ceilings
Attic accesses
Where dryer vents pass through walls
Vents and fans
Light fixtures and plumbing

Check out this diagram also to see where common air leaks are found.

Air Sealing is the process of sealing leaks in a building's envelope to limit the amount of conditioned air that leaks out of the house and the amount of unconditioned air that leaks in. There are several tools and methods that can be used to air seal a home.

Caulks: Useful where gaps are small and where a more finished look is desired. There are many types of caulk available and products are labeled to indicate where they're best applied.

Weatherstripping: Use weatherstripping where you can't use caulk due to something needing to move (i.e. doors or attic hatch).

Mastic: This is a metal tape specifically designed for application on metal ductwork. Use to seal air handlers and all exposed duct connections and joints.

Spray Foam: Spray foam is applied as a liquid and expands up to 100 times its original size in liquid within seconds. As it expands, it fills even the tiniest gaps where air may be leaking. Spray foam insulation typically requires a professional installer because specialized equipment is used.

According to Energy Star, the EPA estimates homeowners can save nearly 20% of heating or cooling cost just by air sealing their home.

Solar PV: You're Already Paying For It

Jim Farrell — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Solar technologies can provide a cost-effective way to reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill. A Solar Electric System (also called a Solar Photovoltaic System or Solar PV) converts sunlight directly into electricity through the use of panels that are installed on a home's roof. These systems are becoming more and more popular in Central New York. But, did you know that you're already paying for it?

BENEFITS OF SOLAR PV:

There are many benefits of Solar PV for your home. Some of them include:

The power of the sun is free.
The production of solar energy produces no pollution.
Systems require virtually no maintenance over their lifetime.
The lifetime of a system can be as long as 40 years.
Excess energy produced can be sold back to the utility company.
Most systems carry a 25 year warranty.

TAX CREDITS AND INCENTIVES:

There are great tax credits and incentives available to assist homeowners with the cost of installing a Solar PV system. These include:

Federal Personal Income Tax Credit: There is currently a federal tax incentive for residential solar PV installations. This incentive will cover 30% of the cost and does not expire until 12/31/2016.
New York State Personal Income Tax Credit: New York state residents can also claim a personal income tax credit of 25% the cost of the solar PV equipment and installation.
New York State Property Tax Exemption: Provides a 100% property tax exemption for 15 years for solar electric (PV) systems installed before January 1, 2015. The amount of the exemption is equal to the increase in assessed value attributable to the solar electric system and applies to general municipal and school district taxes.

And, the one YOU ARE ALREADY PAYING FOR: NYSERDA; which provides homeowners an incentive of up to $10,500 for residential Solar PV Solar PV systems. Yes, did you know that each month on your electric utility bill there is a charge every homeowner pays called a System's Benefit Charge (or SBC)? This surcharge has been mandated by the state to fund initiatives including energy efficiency programs, energy research and development and to encourage the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power. Utility customers have been paying the SBC fee since 1996 and will continue to pay it until at least 2016.

Since you're already paying for Solar PV installations on your monthly utility bill, doesn't it make sense to have one installed on your home?

Photo Courtesy of SunPower Corporation

Attic Insulation: What's Best For Your Home?

Jim Farrell — Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Properly insulating and air sealing your attic will help reduce your energy bills. Attics are often one of the easiest places in a house to insulate. Once you've decided to insulate your attic, you need to choose the type of insulation that is best for your home and there are several to choose from.

Insulation is rated in terms of thermal resistance, called R-value, which indicates the resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. R-value depends on the type of material, its thickness and its density.

Types of Insulation

Blankets / Batts. These are made from fiberglass or rock wool and are available in widths suited to the standard spacing of wall studs and attic or floor joists. This type of insulation must be hand-cut to fit around obstructions or where the joist spacing is non-standard. Batt insulation can be installed by a homeowner or by a professional.

Blown-in-Insulation. Loose cellulose or fiberglass pellets are blown into the attic using specialized pneumatic equipment. This type of insulation is an excellent choice for attic floors, irregularly shaped areas and for filling in around obstructions. The attic should be air-sealed to minimize air-leaks as well. A professional installer needs to be hired to install this type of insulation.
Spray foam Insulation. Foam attic insulation provides high R-value as well as excellent air-sealing. Air sealing is very desirable in insulating an attic as it prevents conditioned interior air from leaking out through the roof. The foam insulation comes in two parts that are mixed right at application. A chemical reaction takes place causing the compound to expand as it foams and stick to the surfaces it touches. This is a more costly insulation and needs to be done by a professional.

With a comprehensive home energy audit, a reputable home performance contractor can help you decide which type of insulation is right for your home, whether you require more insulation and if this will actually save you money on your fuel bills.

How Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems Work [Video]

Jim Farrell — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Geothermal heating and cooling systems work by using the temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home. In Central New York, we have large differences in air temperature with the changing seasons, however, about six feet below ground the temperature remains a relatively constant 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Geothermal systems tap into this constant temperature to heat and cool your home.

Geothermal systems operate on the same principle as refrigerators and freezers, and they're just as quiet.

The main elements of a geothermal heating and cooling system are:

1. Ground loop system.

This is a series of underground plastic pipes laid out in loops. The sealed, fluid-filled pipes can be installed either vertically or horizontally, or placed in a nearby body of water such as a pond.

2. Geothermal heat pump.

Geothermal heat pumps remove heat from the fluid in the pipes and deliver it to your home's heating system. For cooling, the process is reversed.

3. Delivery system.

This is either your home's conventional duct system that distributes heated and cooled air throughout your home or a radiant heating system.

GEOTHERMAL HEATING

In heating mode, fluid in the ground loop pipes absorbs heat from the earth, which is transferred to the heat pump and then pushed through an area of extreme pressure raising the temperature of the air. The warm, comfortable air is then distributed throughout your home.

GEOTHERMAL COOLING

In cooling mode, the geothermal process is simply reversed. Warm air in your home is removed and transferred to the fluid in the loop pipes. As the fluid travels through the loop field, the fluid is naturally cooled by the earth’s temperature and returned to the home where it is used to lower the inside temperature.

INCENTIVES

Geothermal Heating & Cooling Systems in New York can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 70%. There is a $2,000 federal tax credit available until December 31, 2016 for installing these systems in your home.

To find out more about how these systems work watch the video below.

FREE Home Energy Upgrades from EmPower New York

Jim Farrell — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 14:00:00 GMT

EmPower New York is a NYSERDA state grant program which provides no-cost energy efficiency upgrades to income-qualified homeowners and renters. You are eligible if your household income is below 60% of the state median income. For a family of four, that would be a gross annual income of nearly $50,000.

Eligible energy efficiency improvements include:

Duct Sealing
Insulation and Air Sealing
High efficiency furnaces
Refrigerators and other high-efficiency appliances
Lighting
Health and Safety Checks of carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

If you are eligible, a Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited Contractor must determine if your home would benefit from energy efficiency upgrades through a comprehensive home assessment. TAG is a BPI accredited contractor. You'll also be provided with tips and strategies on how to manage your energy usage going forward.

The program is entirely free...an accredited contractor will make the improvements and upgrades at absolutely no cost to the homeowner or renter.

If you believe you may qualify, request an EmPower application. They will notify you of your eligibilty within 4 - 6 weeks at which time a BPI contractor can begin work. You've got nothing to lose except high home energy costs!

If you are interested in the EmPoweer New York grant program, or if you know someone who could benefit from this program, please call me, Jim Farrell, at (315) 314-2246, or simply fill out our Energy Efficiency Upgrade form and we'll contact you for a free, confidential and no obligation consultation.

How to Save 50% on Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Jim Farrell — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Making a home more energy efficient sometimes requires a significant financial investment; which can preclude the upgrade from ever being made.

New York State has a great program called The Assisted Home Performance Program, which provides grants for up to 50% of costs for energy efficiency improvements to homeowners with income equal to or lower than 80% of the state or area median income (whichever is greater). In Onondaga County, for a family of four, that would be an annual income of $65,507 or less.

Eligible energy efficiency improvements include:

High efficiency furnaces and boilers
High efficiency water heaters (oil or propane)
Air sealing
Duct sealing
Insulation
Programmable thermostats

To qualify for incentives through the program, projects must meet two requirements:

They must be installed by a participating Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited contractor. TAG is BPI accredited contractor.
The upgrades should pay for themselves with the savings they create.

To apply for the program, homeowners must contact a BPI accredited contractor or participating community organization. NYSERDA advises homeowners that before moving forward with a project, check with your BPI contractor to make sure the upgrades qualify.

Low-interest financing is available to cover the balance of the cost of the energy efficiency project as well.

If you are interested in the Assisted Home Performance grant program, or if you know someone who could benefit from this program, please call me, Jim Farrell, at (315) 314-2246, or simply fill out our Energy Efficiency Upgrade form and we'll contact you for a free, confidential and no obligation consultation.

5 Tips to Prevent Plumbing Problems While on Vacation

Jim Farrell — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

You've booked the cottage, bought some new beachwear and the car is packed. But, are you sure you remembered everything before taking off on summer vacation?

Your home's plumbing can be easily overlooked when you leave your house unoccupied for a period of time. If something goes wrong while you are away, your vacation's memories are likely to be marred by the mess you could come home to. In fact, according to Traveler's Insurance, homes are ten times more likely to be damaged by water than by fire.

Preventing water damage while you are on vacation does not require much of your time. Here are five simple plumbing tips that will ensure you don't return home to a plumbing problem.

Turn off the main shut-off valve to your plumbing system. If you can't turn off the main water valve, shut off individual valves under sinks, behind toilets, refrigerator and the washing machine.
If you have a gas water heater, set the thermostat to "vacation". With electric water heaters, shut them off at the breaker. There is no sense in heating water you won't be using. Look around your water heater as well to be sure there is no wetness or water leaking. Water heaters also have a shut-off valve that can be turned off to lessen the chance of water damage.
Add some water and a drain maintenance product to your drains before you leave. This will keep them semi-wet and prevent them from developing an unpleasant odor.
Do a visual inspection of all appliances that have plumbing (refrigerator, washing machine, hot water heater) to make sure nothing is wet or corroded.
Have someone come to your house while you're gone and walk around your home to make sure nothing has broken or continues to run while you are gone.

With a few minutes of your time to do these few tasks, you can have peace of mind that you won't return home from a wonderful trip to a plumbing disaster.

Photo credit: Flickr (Ben and Laura Kreeger)

How to Keep Your Air Conditioning System in Shape for Summer

Jim Farrell — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 15:00:00 GMT

As the temperature climbs in CNY, so does air conditioner usage. Making sure your system is operating at its optimum, will keep you the most comfortable and also keep your utility bill down.

Here are a few things you can do so your air conditioning system runs at its best:

Change the air filter. Be sure to change the air filter once a month. Clogged, dirty filters block normal airflow and significantly reduce a system's efficiency. Keeping the air filter clean can lower your air conditioner energy consumption by as much as 15%.

Clear around the condenser. Make sure the area around the condensing unit is free from debris, grass, and shrubs. Anything obstructing air flow to the unit will reduce it's efficiency.

Use shades and fans. Decreasing the level of heat brought in to your house will help keep your home naturally cool. Keep windows covered with blinds or curtains, and use fans to help ciruclate the cool air.

Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat will maintain your home's temperature based upon your family's daily schedule. It can be kept warmer when you aren't home and then cool when you are home.

Get an AC check-up. Have a qualified HVAC contractor perform a cleaning and check-up on your air conditioning system. This check-up will include cleaning the condensing unit colis, checking the amp draw, oiling the fan motors and also, most importantly, checking the coolant levels. According to ACCA, a system that is only 10% low on coolant will cost about 20% more to operate.

Summers can be short in CNY, but they can also be hot. If you take a little time for your air conditioner system's maintenance, it will run at its most efficient and will cost you less to operate.

Photo credit: Flickr (runintherain)

At Last! Solar Panels That Look Good on Your Home

Jim Farrell — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The advantages of Solar Electric (Solar PV) systems are many:

The power of the sun is free.
The production of solar energy produces no pollution.
Systems require virtually no maintenance over their lifetime.
The lifetime of a system can be as long as 40 years.
Excess energy produced can be sold back to the utility company.
Most systems carry a 25 year warranty.

But in the past, one disadvantage of a Solar Electric system that kept some homeowners from installing a system on their home was the undesirable appearance of the solar panels once mounted to the roof. Fortunately, that's no longer the case.

With energy prices climbing and incentives being offered for Solar Electric system installations, solar manufacturers have recognized aesthetics as one of the last barriers to homeowners making the leap to installing a system on their home.

Until recently, solar panels were nearly six inches thick, mounted with brackets onto the roof and had unsightly metal gridlines. They had a bluish cast as well, which didn't blend well with any roof.

Now, solar panels blend seemlessly with your roof and show no metal gridlines. The result is a much more aesthetically pleasing end product, one that truly makes solar panels part of the house - and not an unsightly add on.

Another advantage - the new solar cell technology that has improved the looks of solar panels has also made them more efficient. Coupled with the many incentives and tax credits, making the decision to go solar makes a lot of sense.

How to Lock in Your Electric Bill for the Next 25 Years

Jim Farrell — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Would you like to be your own electricity provider and protect yourself from future electric rate increases from the power company? Installing a solar electric system is equivalent to locking in the next 25 years of electric power at today's cost. As electric rates continue to increase, your savings will increase as well. A solar electric system (also called a solar PV system) will allow you to free yourself from the utility company!

Solar electric systems generate clean, inflation-proof electricity for your home. In addition, implementing a home solar electric system is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Solar energy is an entirely renewable energy choice....it will never run out.

Excess production can even be sold back to the utility company (net metering).

To encourage residential solar electric system installations, there are several incentive and tax credit programs available. Coupled with current low-interest financing, you will most likely be paying the same or less than you are currently paying for electricity. To get a ballpark estimate of what a solar electric system will cost for your home, use SunPower's free calculator. You only need to provide your address and an average monthly electric utility bill.

With no moving parts, solar electric systems are an incredibly reliable technology and will require little maintenance over the system's lifetime. This is reflected in the warranties offered which are typically 10 years on workmanship and 25 years on system performance.

Between rising utility prices, incentives, tax credits and increasing efficiency of solar panels, now is definitely the time for Central New York homeowners to consider installing a solar electric system.

Photo credit: Flickr (gr33n3gg)

How Solar Electric Pays for Itself

Jim Farrell — Wed, 30 May 2012 14:35:00 GMT

Determining whether to install a solar electric (photovoltaic or PV) system on your home may seem like a daunting task, but thanks to a combination of generous incentives and tax credits, financing options that don't change what you currently paying for electricity and technology advancements, including "black glass" panels, solar electric systems now make sense for every Central New York home.

Some Benefits of Solar Electric:

Protect yourself against future increases in electricity prices. Solar power is an inflation-protected investment, because it offsets electricity costs at the current prevailing retail electricity rate.

Reduce your carbon footprint. Solar electric systems operate without emissions.

Increase the value of your home (according to a 2011 study), without increasing your property tax assessment for 15 years.

Solar panels are capable of absorbing different types of light and will produce electricity even on cloudy days. The panels are designed to withstand heavy snow as well, so they will hold up fine to CNY winters.

How Much Will It Cost?

To get a ballpark estimate of what a solar electric system will cost for your home, use SunPower's free calculator. You only need to provide your address and an average monthly electric utility bill. You will see that the monthly savings on your utility bill will start immediately and the savings over the lifetime of a solar electric system are truly impressive!

In addition to federal and New York State tax incentives, there are excellent financing options available to make the cost of installing a solar electric system manageable for anyone. In fact, you may not be paying any more than you are currently paying for your electric utility bill while protecting yourself against future utility price increases.

Photo credit:Flickr (Kuyman)

Does Solar Electric Really Work in CNY?

Jim Farrell — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Solar technologies can provide a cost-effective means to reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill. When one considers the weather in Central New York though, sunny days are not typically the first thing that come to mind. You might be surprised to learn that the average number of "sun hours" in Syracuse is nearly 93% of that in Florida...4.2 hours in Syracuse versus 4.5 hours in Florida.This is ample for a solar electric system to convert the sun's energy into electricity for your home.

HOW IT WORKS:

A solar electric system (also called a solar photovoltaic system or solar PV) converts sunlight directly into electricity through the use of panels that are installed on a home's roof. Daytime excess power is sent to the local utility grid and your account is credited for future energy needs (i.e., night time usage). The house remains connected to the utility's electric supply so that any power needed above what the solar system can produce is simply drawn from the electric utility.

CNY WEATHER:

The performance of a photovoltaic array is dependent upon sunlight. Climate conditions, such as clouds and fog, do have an effect on the amount of solar energy received by a PV system, but the panels are designed to absorb different kinds of light and will produce electricity even on days with very little "perceivable" sunlight. Snow will also reduce the efficiency of solar electric panels until the snow is brushed off or melts off (snow melts pretty quickly once part of the panel is exposed to sunshine and the glass heats up).

TAX CREDITS AND INCENTIVES:

Federal Personal Income Tax Credit: There is currently a federal tax incentive for residential solar PV installations. This incentive will cover 30% of the cost and does not expire until 12/31/2016.
New York State Personal Income Tax Credit: New York state residents can also claim a personal income tax credit of 25% the cost of the solar PV equipment and installation.
New York State Property Tax Exemption: provides a 100% property tax exemption for 15 years for solar electric (PV) systems installed before January 1, 2015. The amount of the exemption is equal to the increase in assessed value attributable to the solar electric system and applies to general municipal and school district taxes.
NYSERDA: provides a maximum incentive of $10,500 for residential systems.

Tax credits and incentives, combined with the savings in electricity cost, allow a residential solar electric (PV) system to pay for itself in as little as four years.

Plumbing Tips That Will Save You Money

Jim Farrell — Wed, 16 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Most homeowners don't think about the plumbing in their home until there's a problem. What starts as a small plumbing issue though can turn into a large problem that is also very expensive. Here are some tips that will help you fix minor issues and possibly prevent a major plumbing problem down-the-road.

Leaking faucets and toilets. In addition to wasted water, your money is also going down the drain. Periodically check both interior and exterior faucets for leaks. Toilets can be checked for leaks by removing the lid of the tank and adding food coloring to the tank water. Let it sit for 30 minutes and see if the colored water leaked into the toilet bowl.

Sump pump. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it operates properly by pouring a few buckets of water into the sump pit. The pump should quickly turn on, discharge the water and then shut off.
Grease buildup in drain pipes. Grease can cause major clogs. Always pour kitchen grease and oil into an empty can and dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour it down the drain. To help remove any grease accumulation and keep your sink drain clean, pour a cup of baking soda and then a cup of vinegar into your drain. Chemical drain cleaners can also be used but there is the risk of damage to metal pipes and parts.
Showerheads and faucet aerators. Minerals from water can build-up inside showerheads and faucet aerators which will reduce water flow. An easy way to remove these deposits is to soak them for several hours in vinegar and then gently scrub with water to help clear the holes.

Water heater tank. A couple of times a year, carefully drain several gallons from the water heater tank to flush out corrosion, which causes sediment and will shorten the life of the water heater.

Water leaks. If you suspect you have a water leak but can't find it, check your water meter's reading before you leave the house for several hours, when you know the water won't be used. If the reading is different when you return, chances are you have a leak and may need to contact a plumber.

Plumbers are not all created equal so if you do think you need to hire someone, talk to your neighbors and friends to ask who they've used and were happy with the work. Plumbers are required to be licensed so make sure you ask to see their license. (Plumbers in Syracuse, NY and Onondaga County are licensed by the Onondaga County Department of Water Environment Protection). Ask about pricing - some plumbers use flat rate pricing which is essentially quoting a price from a printed "menu" which means you don't have to be concerned about the cost of material or be watching the clock and worrying about how long it's taking to finish the job.

Photo credit: Flickr

5 Benefits of On-Demand Water Heaters

Jim Farrell — Wed, 09 May 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Traditional storage tank water heaters have been used in homes and businesses for decades. An on-demand water heater (a.k.a. tankless water heater) eliminates the need for a storage tank. Instead water is heated as it's needed.

Here are five benefits of an on-demand water heater:

Never run out of hot water: On-demand water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through the unit and is heated. As a result, you receive a constant supply of hot water.
Reduce water heating costs as much as 50%: Because water is heated only when needed, there is no need to store hot water in a storage tank. You aren't paying to keep the water in the storage tank hot. As much as 40% of energy consumed by a traditional tank water heater is wasted as heat is slowly lost due to heat loss from the storage tank.
Hard water: Since hot water is not stored, tankless water heaters handle hard water minerals much better than conventional tanks. They will not experience the leaks or ruptures that are far more common with standard storage tanks.
Longer life: Tankless water heaters will last for 20 years or more versus traditional water heaters which typically last 6 - 12 years. In addition, traditional storage tank water heaters are costly to recylce and take up a huge amount of landfill space.
Require much less space: Tankless water heaters are quite small (about the size of a briefcase) and can be mounted on a wall. This frees up space that can be used for storage and is an ideal solution for smaller living areas such as apartments and condos.

On-demand water heaters do cost more than traditional storage tank water heaters, but that will be offset by the substantially lower cost to operate it. And, the members of your family will love never taking a cold shower again!

Photo credit: Flickr

10 Spring Home Maintenance Tips

Jim Farrell — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Spring in CNY seems to be undecided as to whether it plans to actually arrive or not, but according to the calendar it is here. As we look forward to the warmer weather, it is time to make sure your home is in good repair. Here are some important issues to tend to around the house in spring.

1. Prevent water damage from heavy spring rains: Make sure pooling water is being directed away from your home. Check gutters to ensure they are hanging properly and are free of debris, which could force water to collect on the roof. Position downspouts so they drain at least three feet away from your foundation.

2. Check the Roof: If you suspect winter storms may have damaged your roof, it needs to be inspected (if you're not comfortable with the height or your roof, hire a roofing contractor). Look for missing or loose shingles. Examine the condition of the flashing around the chimney, flue pipes and vent caps.

3. Air Conditioner: Clear leaves and dirt from inside the air conditioner's top grill. Trim nearby shrubs and bushes to allow at least two feet of clearance around the unit. Set the thermostat to cooling mode and run the air conditioner a few minutes to make sure it's working. Schedule an annual checkup of your air conditioning system with a qualified HVAC contractor.

4. Check Smoke Detectors: Daylight Savings Time is usually the reminder to check your smoke detectors. If you haven't already done it, now's the time. Replace the batteries and test the detector's operation. In addition, install a carbon monoxide detector if you don't already have one. CO detectors are inexpensive and easy-to-install.

5. Change Furnace Filters: The filter should have been changed during the winter, but now is a good time to change it again as the filter may have become choked with dust from the winter heating season. This is especially important if you have central air conditioning, or if you utilize your heating system's fan to circulate air during the summer.

6. Look for Signs of Interior Water Damage: Look at the ceilings for discoloration or water damage and examine windows for peeling paint and caulk.

7. Room Air Condtioner: If you use a room air conditioner, install it on a north-facing wall to keep it out of the sun. Remove the unit's front grill and the air filter and clean any dust or dirt from the filter.

8. Windows and Doors: Examine window and door seals and weatherstripping. Reseal if needed to reduce air leaks.

9. Sump Pump Maintenance: Before the rainy season hits, check your sump pump for proper operation and replace the batteries in the backup.

10. Foundation: Check foundation floors, walls, concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration. If you can slide a nickel into a crack in your concrete floor, slab or foundation, call a professional to evaluate the problem and make appropriate repairs.

Photo credit: Flickr

How to Eliminate Household Odors, Bacteria and Mold

Jim Farrell — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Today's homes have been constructed or modified to be more air-tight than ever. Consequently, they hold in odors better as well. Molds and bacteria are not usually a problem indoors unless spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Odors are a nuisance, but molds can also cause health problems.

Causes of Odors

Most odors are created by one of two sources, either chemical or biological. Chemical odors usually originate from man-made products such as construction materials, floor coverings, cleaning products and tobacco smoke. Biological odors are usually caused by food, cooking, insects, pets, sewer gases and mold growth.

Eliminating Odors

There are many chemical products on the market that claim to eliminate odors, but what they are really doing is "masking" the odor. To eliminate and control odors, the most effective means of accomplishing this is through the use of a technology referred to as bipolar ionization. The ionized oxygen clusters attach to airborne pollutants such as mold, bacteria, pollen, chemicals, and odor causing organic compounds and rapidly drop them from the breathable air in your home.

Mold and Bacteria

Controlling moisture in your home is the key to controlling mold and bacteria growth. Spores are always present indoors, but they won't grow if moisture isn't present. Molds and bacteria have the potential to cause health problems and allergic responses (such as sneezing, red eyes, skin rash, etc) in individuals. If you believe there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. In addition, keep the humidity level in the house below 40% and use an air conditioner and dehumidifer during humid months. Be sure your home has adequate ventilation; including exhaust fans in the bathrooms and kitchen. An air purification system, such as AtmosAir, can be very effective in helping to eliminate mold and bacteria growth in your home. An AtmosAir whole house system can be installed right on to your existing HVAC system and you will notice an improvement in the air you are breathing in your home within a few short hours.

Photo Credit: Flickr

What a Negative Air Pressure Test Will Tell You

Jim Farrell — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Negative air pressure is formed when more air is exhausted from your home than is brought in to it. Typically, this is due to a home's envelope being too airtight....it's like the house is "gasping" for air. It seems somewhat ironic that a house that has been made airtight to save energy should now be loosened up to become healthy, but that is, in fact, what is needed.

Houses Need to Breathe!

There are appliances such as bathroom fans, range hoods and clothes dryers pushing air out of your house. The result of this creates negative air pressure in the house which means the house becomes more interested in trying to suck air in than pushing air out. Your house will try to draw air in from the easiest place which will be the existing flues of the furnace, wood stove, fireplace and gas water heater. When this happens, carbon monoxide is being forced in to your home and indoor air quality is compromised.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that is toxic. It is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of fuels such as propane, wood, oil, gasoline and natural gas. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, disorientation) and even death. Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector as well. If you don't have one, make the small investment.

Signs Your Home May Have Negative Air Pressure

A rush of air or draft when opening an exterior door
A lack of fresh air, a musty smell or lingering odors around the house
Mold, mildew, moisture or condensation around windows or on walls
Back drafting of combustion appliances such as the fireplace, wood stove, gas water heater or furnace

Eliminating Negative Air Pressure

Removing negative air pressure requires that you bring in "make-up" air from the outside in a controlled manner. A licensed HVAC contractor can help you determine if you need additional make-up air and how to best introduce it into your home. One method is through the use of mechanical ventilation. With this method, ducts and fans are used to bring new air into the home. Mechanical ventilation systems also allow for a constant flow of outside air into the house which is preferable to relying on outside air entering the house through foundation cracks, doors, windows, the garage, etc.

Photo credit: Flickr

Are Replacement Windows a Good Investment?

Jim Farrell — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Replacing the windows in your home can be a large investment. There are several factors to consider before making this commitment.

Some signs that it is time to replace your windows:

There is frost build-up or condensation on the windows
Trim is rotting or cracked
The interior glass is cold to the touch during winter and warm in summer
There is a draft coming from around the window

Any of these indicators signal that windows are failing and replacements should be considered. With replacement windows, your home's comfort will likely improve dramatically, but is it a good financial investment?

According to energystar.gov, if you currently have single-pane windows and upgrade to Energy Star double-pane windows, you can expect to save $146 - $501 per year in energy costs. Replacing existing double-pane windows with Energy Star double-pane windows will result in savings of $71 - $247 per year.

Understanding windows can be challenging for a consumer. In addition to aesthetics, you need to consider thermal performance, material, glazing, low-E coatings.

The best way to determine which windows are right for your home is through a home energy audit by a BPI certified contractor.

If you decide that replacement windows aren't in your budget now, consider repairing what you can on your current windows so they perform better. A few suggestions:

Add Storm Windows. Storm windows reduce the amount of air moving in and out of existing windows.
Repair caulking.
Add weather stripping.
Install window treatments or coverings such as drapes, blinds or shades.

Photo credit: Flickr

5 Tips to Get Your HVAC System Ready for Spring and Summer

Jim Farrell — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:00:00 GMT

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. For that matter, here in CNY we have already experienced summer-like weather and you may have already turned on your air conditioning system. There are a few things you can do to get your A/C system ready for the warm weather and make it run more economically and efficiently.

Clear all debris from around the condensing unit. Make sure it is clear of leaves and any vegetation. Ensure there is no debris on the fan blades either. (Note: make sure the unit is off before handling any parts of the equipment.)
Replace or clean the filter. This is very important! The filter is what catches dust, pollens and other allergerns, preventing them from entering your house. If the filter is choked with dust, it slows down the cold airflow and makes the system run harder and longer
If the condensing unit is in direct sun during any part of the day, consider planting a shade tree or bushes near it. This will improve the system's cooling function.
Lubricate the motor. Make sure the power is off to the unit and consult the owner's manual for specific information. To access the motor, you will need to remove the side grill from the unit. Locate the fan motor oil ports above the fan blade and place a few drops of lightweight household oil in to each port.
Schedule an A/C Clean and Check with a trusted HVAC company. This service provides a compete inspection of your unit and a check of all components to insure that everything works properly. Every manufacturer recommends routine maintenance. In addition, many warranties state in the fine print that the homeowner is required to maintain their equipment or the warranty may become void. The small investment in an air conditioner tuneup will be well-worth it.

Now is the time to get your A/C system ready for the warm summer weather. The above tips are easy-to-do and will reward you with a cool, comfortable house.

Photo Credit: Flikr

A Homeowner's Guide to 2012 NYS and Federal Energy Tax Credits

Jim Farrell — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Although tax incentives for high efficiency equipment have expired, both the federal government and New York State are offering incentives for renewable energy systems which include geothermal, wind and solar energy. Here's a summary of the tax credits:

Geothermal Heat Pumps

These are similar to ordinary heat pumps but instead of using the outside air, geothermal systems use the temperature of the earth to provide heating, air conditioning and hot water.

Federal Tax Incentive: Through 2016, there is a 30% tax credit with NO upper limit. This credit can be taken for a system installed on a primary residence.

Solar Electric (PV) and Solar Thermal

Solar Electric (PV) systems are solar cells that capture light energy from the sun and convert it directly in to energy. Solar thermal systems use the sun's energy to heat water.

Federal Tax Incentive: Through 2016, there is a 30% personal income tax credit with NO upper limit for a system installed after 12/31/2008.
New York State Incentive: 25% of the cost, up to $5,000 can be taken as a personal income tax credit on a system up to 25kW. Currently, there is no expiration date on this incentive.

NYSERDA also offers an incentive of up to $10,500 on residential Solar Electric systems. In addition, Solar Electric systems are exempt from sales tax and property tax in most NYS jurisdictions. For more details, visit our Solar Electric Incentives and Tax Credits page.

Small Wind Turbines

A wind turbine collects energy from the wind and converts it to electricity that can be used in the home.

Federal Tax Incentive: Through 2016, 30% of the cost can be taken as a personal tax credit. There is no upper limit to the amount.

For more information and a complete list of all incentives and tax credits available, check out the DSIRE Website, which is maintainted by the US Department of Energy.

Photo credit: Flickr

5 Ways to Reduce Your Hot Water Costs and Save Energy

Jim Farrell — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Heating water can account for as much as 25% of your home's energy usage. There are some relatively simple ways to reduce this cost. Sometimes an initial investment is required, but you will find that it pays for itself through energy savings in a short amount of time.

Lower the thermostat on your water heater. Many manufacturers recommend setting the thermostat on your hot water heater at 140 degrees. For each 10 degrees you lower that though, you will save 3% - 5% in energy costs. Most households are very comfortable with the hot water temperature at 120 degrees. Give it a try and see what you think.
Reduce hot water use. Install low-flow shower heads and faucets. Adding an aerating low-flow shower head can reduce your water use by as much as 50% and adding an aerator to the faucets in your home can reduce flow rates to .5 gallon per minute (down from as much as 1.5 gpm).
Consider investing in an Ondemand Water Heater. Ondemand or tankless water heaters heat entirely on demand and only when hot water is needed. Since there is no hot water storage, heat loss is almost completely eliminated. By heating water only when you need it with an Energy Star qualified tankless water heater, the typical family can save more more than $100 per year.
Insulate your hot water tank and pipes. Insulate all accessible hot water pipes with a quality pipe insulation wrap. Insulating the heater tank is fairly simple. Pre-cut jackets can be purchased at home improvement stores for under $25. Installation is somewhat different on electric versus gas water heaters, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions.
Purchase ENERGY STAR appliances.

Energy Star qualified dishwashers use substantially less water and energy than their non-Energy Star counterparts. Also, if you have a pre-1994 dishwasher, you are likely spending at least $40 per year more to operate it and using an additional 10 gallons of water per wash.
Energy Star qualified clothes washers use 14 gallons of water per load versus 27 gallons used by a standard machine. In addition, to save on energy costs, you can typically use either warm or cold water for most laundry loads and cold water is always fine for rinsing.

For more information and ideas on how you can reduce your hot water costs, check out Energy Savers website.

Photo Credit: Flickr

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