Heating Systems and You

Maintain your equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Now is the time to perform routine maintenance on your home's heating system to ensure that it is running efficiently this winter

A handy-dandy maintenance checklist offered by EngeryStar.gov:

A typical maintenance check-up should include the following.

• Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.
• Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
• Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
• Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.
• Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.

Heating Specific

• Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger. Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently.
  

Actions To Do Yourself

• Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

Window Replacement: What's the Greenest Choice?

Are your windows collecting condensation or a frost buildup? In the winter, does your window feel colder than the rest of the house? Is the trim rotting, cracking or missing? You may be due for a replacement window or two. Anyone who has done a recent price-check on windows knows they are not a cheap update. While making such an investment in your home, why not be eco-friendly? The Greenandsave.com website offers a great article on updating or replacing windows: Window Replacement: What's the Greenest Choice?

GCH Projects : Deer Clover

The Paoli Group and Graham Custom Homes have partnered to create the Deer Clover project. The project broke ground mid 2009. This 6300 sq ft custom-built spec home is tucked into a vast Aspen grove, just below the infamous Fish Creek Falls trail head. The views through the 16 foot wide glass patio door to the Steamboat valley below and the mountain ranges beyond are breathtaking. Panoramic views from the vaulted great room are awe-inspiring. From the master suite and the private master deck, the Steamboat ski slopes jut into view. Deer Clover boasts six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, plus two powder rooms – including an ample sized guest suite. The oversized four-car garage offers additional storage in the loft area. The outdoor space does not pale by comparison. Over 3000 sq ft of decks and stamped concrete verandas including an outdoor grilling space and a wood-burning fireplace.

With the Paoli Group and Graham Custom Homes working together for you, you can expect a long term relationship and a commitment to surpassing your expectations. Chris Paoli is available to be reached at 970.819.1432, chris@mybrokers.com, or visit their website at www.thepaoligroup.com.

Home Energy Audit

You may have heard the phrase "Home Energy Audit" before, but wondering what it entails? An energy audit is an inspection, survey, and analysis of energy flows for energy conservation in a building, process or system to reduce the amount of energy input into the system without negatively affecting the output(s). Simply put, it can help you assess how much energy your home uses and evaluate what measures you can take to improve efficiency. A home energy audit is often the first step in making your home more efficient and to lower your carbon footprint.

Not sure where to start? Your first step should be to contact your local utility and see if they offer a free home energy audit. Most public utilities will conduct home energy audits for their customers, free of charge. Or you may hire a professional Home Energy Auditor. The pros use a variety of techniques and equipment to determine the energy efficiency of your home. Thorough audits often use equipment such as blower doors, which measure the extent of leaks in the building envelope, and infrared cameras, which reveal hard-to-detect areas of air infiltration and missing insulation.

Smoke Alarms + Your Safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates more than 94% of homes have at least one smoke alarm. Sadly, here are more homes with smoke alarms that do not work, than homes without alarms. These poorly maintained units create a false sense of security for residents. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Safety tips provided by the National Fire Protection Association:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, both types of alarms or a combination alarm (photoelectric and ionization) should be installed in homes.
• Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.
• Smoke rises; install smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions high on a wall or on a ceiling. Save manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.
• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps”, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
• Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they are 10 year old or sooner if they do not respond properly.
• Be sure the smoke alarm has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• Alarms that are hard-wired (and include battery backup) must be installed by a qualified electrician.
• If cooking fumes or steam sets off nuisance alarms, replace the alarm with an alarm that has a "hush" button. A "hush" button will reduce the alarm’s sensitivity for a short period of time.
• An ionization alarm with a hush button or a photoelectric alarm should be used if the alarm is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance.
• Smoke alarms that include a recordable voice announcement in addition to the usual alarm sound, may be helpful in waking children through the use of a familiar voice.
• Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing . These devices use strobe lights. Vibration devices can be added to these alarms
• Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.

Wood Siding Maintenance

Nothing really compares to the richness and character of natural, stained wood siding. Wood siding is an excellent choice for its visual appeal, but one must be aware of the maintenance required. If properly maintained, wood siding will last for decades. Also, some types of wood, such as redwood, cedar, and cypress, withstand the elements better than others and will last longer, but they still require some maintenance.

The recommended maintenance schedule for wood siding is to repaint at least every five years, and treat or stain every three years, depending on your climate. For example, in the mountain states where the sun and snow can be rather harsh, you might need to have your wood siding treated more often.

Repair methods vary depending on the type of siding you have, but the majority are fairly easy to fix. Renailing loose sheathing, replacing rotted elements and patching any holes or gaps on the underlying surface will help in maintaining your siding after it is repaired. Always identify and remedy the underlying problem before you repair the siding, or you will be back repairing the same problem again next summer.

Fireworks Safety + Children

It's an American tradition...the annual lighting of fireworks. Unfortunately, injuries from fireworks are another tradition that often seems to follow when kids are allowed to play with fireworks.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that:

• there were 7 fireworks-related deaths in 2008 and 11 in 2007
• about 7,000 people were treated in emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks in 2008
• most injuries from fireworks occur in the few weeks around July 4th
• almost half of the injuries were to children under age 15
• firecrackers caused the most injuries, followed by rockets and sparklers
• burns are the most common injuries from fireworks

The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave the lighting to the professionals. Lighting fireworks at home isn't even legal in many areas, so if you still want to use them, be sure to check with your local police department first. If they're legal where you live, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Kids should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit (982° Celsius) — hot enough to melt gold.
• Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster, or quarterpounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries.
• Never try to make your own fireworks.
• Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
• Steer clear of others — fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.
• Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.
• Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.
• Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.
• Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.
• Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.

If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don't allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage. Also, don't flush the eye out with water or attempt to put any ointment on it. Instead, cut out the bottom of a paper cup, place it around the eye, and immediately seek medical attention — your child's eyesight may depend on it. If it's a burn, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool, not cold, water over the burn (do not use ice). Call your doctor immediately.

Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you'll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe. Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast!

Celebrate the Fourth in Steamboat!

We are getting geared up to celebrate a fantastic 4th in Steamboat Springs! Wondering what to do? Check out this fun-filled lineup of events.

Thursday, July 1:

• 9:00 - 10:30AM Downtown Historic Walking Tour, Tread of Pioneers Museum
• 12:15 - 1:00PM Music on the Green~ Meridian Quartet at Yampa River Botanic Park, Strings Music Festival (free admission)
• 8:00PM Jesse Cook at Strings Music Pavilion, Strings Music Festival
  

Friday, July 2:

• 10:00AM - 4:00PM Art on the Mountain in Gondola Square
• 12:00 - 1:00PM Brown Bag Lecture Series, Tread of Pioneers Museum
• 1:00 - 4:30PM Cow Town Ranch Tour, Community Agriculture Alliance
• 5:00 - 8:00PM First Friday Artwalk, downtown Steamboat Springs starting at 13th and Lincoln
• 5:00 - 8:00PM Steamboat Clay Artisans at The Depot
• 7:00 PM Mountain Valley Bank Ranch Rodeo at Romick Arena beginning with Heritage Ranch Family Awards (free admission)
• 8:00PM Jesse Cook at Strings Music Pavilion, Strings Music FestivalSaturday, July 3:
• 8:00AM Mountain Madness Road Race - Half Marathon & 10K at Howelsen Ice Rink
• 9:00 - 11:00AM Nordic Ski Jumping Competition at Howelsen Hill
• 9:00AM - 2:00PM MainStreet Farmer’s Market, 6th Street next to the courthouse
• 10:00AM - 4:00PM Art on the Mountain in Gondola Square
• 7:30 - 10:00PM Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series at Romick Arena
• 8:00PM Multi-Media performance of Chamber music at Strings Music Pavilion, Strings Music Festival

Sunday, July 4:

• 7:00 - 10:00AM Pancake Breakfast at the Little Toots Park, Steamboat Springs Lions Club
• 9:30AM 5th Annual Cross Country/ Nordic Combined Roller Ski Race
• 9:40AM 19th Annual Steamboat Sprint - 400 yard dash at Lincoln Avenue, Running Series
• 10:00AM Fourth of July Parade presented by the Yampa Valley Bank Parade theme: Cowboys Dig Downtown
• 10:00AM - 4:00PM Art on the Mountain in Gondola Square
• 11:00AM - 1:00PM Pioneer Day Block Party at the Tread of Pioneers Museum featuring a free community concert
• 12:30PM 4th of July Ski Jump Extravaganza, Nordic Combined competition, Howelsen Hill
• 6:30PM Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series - special performance at Romick Arena
• Approx. 9:30PM Fourth of July Fireworks display at dark following the end of the rodeo, Howelsen Hill

Eco-Friendly Summer Cooling Tips

The dog days of summer are here and the heat is on. Keeping our houses cool with air conditioners costs Americans about $11 billion a year. And those air conditioners release about 100 million tons of carbon dioxide into the air annually -- two tons for each home that has one. Looking for ways to stay cool this summer and reduce your carbon footprint and energy bill? Here are a few simple and inexpensive tips to help:

• Fans and Ceiling Fans: Fans don’t use much energy, but when air is circulating, it feels much cooler. Ceiling fans are best, but a good portable fan can be very effective as well.
• Shades, drapes, or blinds: Close blinds, shades and draperies facing the sun to keep the sun’s heat out and help fans or air conditioners cool more efficiently.
• Internal Heat: The most common sources of internal heat gain are appliances, electronic devices, and lighting. Be aware from where the heat is coming. By reducing the amount of heat in your home, you will have to use less energy to cool it.
• Plants: Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides will keep your house cool in the summer and allow the sunlight to warm the house during the winter. Plant trees or shrubs to shade air conditioning units, but not block the airflow.
• Humidity: Humidity makes room air feel warmer, so reduce indoor humidity. Minimize mid-day washing and drying clothes, showering, and cooking.

Deck Safety + Maintenance

June! Summer is here and so begins the summer chores. I walked around the backyard yesterday and couldn't help but notice the eyesore my back deck has become. Needing to clean, repair, and refinish the deck, I looked to the North American Deck and Rail Association (NADRA) for tips.

• Look for loose or corroded fasteners. This can be especially important — nails and screws can come loose or break as a deck settles, and it’s easy to trip and fall over a loose board.
• Give close inspection to railings, banisters and stairs. Push on your railings and banisters — there should be no movement. Take the time to make sure no balusters (railing pickets) are loose or missing.
• Do some quick cleaning. Use a broom or hose to remove any leaves or other debris from your deck. If you have a wood deck and you discover mold, take the time to properly remove it and then apply a waterproof sealant, carefully considering what harsh chemicals may do to your nearby landscaping. Composite and PVC decking may require a quick pressure-wash or scrub with a mild detergent.

While it’s quick and easy to fix a loose screw, you might want to seek a professional opinion if you’re noticing significant rot or are uncertain about how well your deck is attached to your house. You can check out other deck care and maintenance tips and deck safety at NADRA’s website. (www.nadra.org)

Seal Your Investment!

We walk on it. We drive on it. We park on it. Do you consider your driveway to be an important investment? It is and it requires regular maintenance and care, especially if it is subjected to harmful conditions (harsh winter weather, de-icing salts, oil/gas leaks). Consider applying a sealer to preserve and protect your investment. Most of us put off sealing driveways until the fall, but the spring is an ideal time to do it. The outside temperature needs to be at least 55 degrees and no rain is expected within 36 hours. Once your driveway is coated with a sealer, stains are easier to clean and cracks caused by severe weather are less likely to occur.

Step 1: Clean the Driveway
Use dishwasher detergent and water to remove gas and oil stains. Dirt, weeds and rocks must be extracted from all cracks. The use of a pressure-washer is your best option to thoroughly clean your driveway. Allow the surface adequate time to dry.

Step 2: Repair Cracks
Cracks in your driveway and the products to fill those cracks come in all shapes and sizes. To repair smaller cracks, you can use filler that comes in a can or a dispenser similar to a caulking gun. Larger cracks could require a cold patch material packed tightly into the hole. Allow filler materials adequate time to dry.

Step 3: Apply Sealer
Stir the sealer thoroughly, then pour, brush or spray the protective coating on the driveway. Keep in mind that some sealer manufacturers recommend a light misting of water on the surface as the sealer is applied. Use a push broom, brush, roller or squeegee to spread the sealer. Allow the sealer 24 hours to dry. For best results, you should apply at least two coats of sealer every two to three years.

Chores Chores Chores! Gutters & Downspouts.

Taking the time to clean, maintain, and repair downspouts and gutters can double or even triple the life of your roof drainage system. This can save you a lot of money on repair costs. It may prevent damage to your home’s interior due to flooding through the foundation and walls or leaks in the roof due to seepage of water.

Improper drainage due to poor roof pitch is one of the biggest causes of roof drainage problems. Improper drainage causes water to accumulate in certain spots in the gutters, ultimately building up debris and accelerating rust. Clogged gutters and downspouts can also be a big problem. Thoroughly clean all debris from the gutters and downspouts at least twice a year. If there are a number of trees near your home, clean the gutters with a whisk broom even more often than twice a year. Carefully examine them in the spring just before the spring rains. Inspect them again in the fall when leaves, limbs and other debris might cause problems.