Scotts 20-Inch Push Reel Mower

With soaring gas prices, what better way to save money this summer.

The Scott's classic reel mower is light, maneuverable, and economical. The business end of this push reel mower is solid, sharp, and everything a reel mower should be, with five heat-treated, knife-sharp steel blades that can be adjusted for nine grass heights with very easy wheel tabs. With its 10-inch wheels, radial tires, and 20-inch cutting width, this mower should enable you to cross whatever terrain and reach whatever hard-to-access rogue patches of grass you desire. There's no soft cushion on the handle, which is too bad, but otherwise, the Scotts Classic is a durable, well-constructed, simple device.

Available at Amazon.com.

Green Remodeling: Your Start toward an Eco-Friendly Home

Ultimate Guide to Green Remodeling goes beyond other home improvement books in that it shows homeowers how they can take part in the "green" revolution when remodeling his or her home. Through common remodeling projects, such as replacing kitchen cabinets and installing new countertops, readers are presented with choices for using green, nontoxic building materials and techniques. Some of the topics covered include reducing home energy use, selecting nontoxic materials, saving water, and supporting the environment through the use of products that are manufactured responsibly or that come fromsustainable natural resources.

Available at Amazon.com.

How To Make Your Bathroom Eco-Friendly

We waste more water and use more chemicals in our bathrooms than any other place in the house! Here's how to green yours up.

How To Save Energy In Your Home

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Learn simple ways to conserve energy used in your home and save money while doing it.

How to Make Your Home Green

From floor plans to new furnishings, home remodeling comes with endless choices and possibilities. Whether it’s a small project or a major addition, one important element to keep in mind as a homeowner makes those choices is green design.

To make it easier to incorporate green elements in renovation projects, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Foundation partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to produce green remodeling guidelines for the homeowner, builder, designer and construction professional.

Green design not only reduces the impact on the environment and saves resources, it promotes a healthy lifestyle free of toxic materials and allergies. The increasing availability of new technology and innovative products is making it easier to achieve a healthy, safe and efficient home. In fact, anyone can implement aspects of green design. It can be as simple as purchasing bulk-product dispensers or as extensive as installing a tankless water heater for the entire home. Here are a few ideas for the homeowner that chooses to go green:

* Appliances: Choose high-efficiency water heaters, low-flow toilets and showerheads, faucet aerators, and energy- and water-efficient appliances. Consider using bulk-product dispensers for body-care products.

* Flooring: Reuse existing flooring and subflooring when possible and look at flooring made from natural or rapidly renewable materials for new floors. Refinish wood floors using safe processes and with greener and safer materials. Avoid carpeting in high moisture areas or where spills could occur. Consider removable area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.

* Lighting: Make smart use of natural light and supplement it with efficient electric lighting like compact fluorescent bulbs.

* Paints: Use low- or zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, finishes, adhesives, grouts, caulking, and sealants.

* Furnishings: Choose cabinetry and other furnishings made from recycled or reclaimed materials or wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. There are a number of products on the market, including countertops, tables, chairs and flooring, made from a wide range of recycled and reclaimed materials. Select compact furniture that incorporates storage and consider reused, salvaged or antique furniture.

* Water Use: Set water heater temperatures no higher than necessary and conserve water use.

* Safety: Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

REGREEN, set to launch during INTERIORS 08: The ASID Conference on Design (www.asid.org/interiors) March 13-16, 2008 in New Orleans, is a residential remodeling program created through the collaboration of professionals in all sectors of the homebuilding industry. Currently, a draft of the REGREEN guidelines is available for public comment and review. Access the guidelines online at www.regreenprogram.org. The final version will be released next March at INTERIORS 08.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Save Energy This Winter without Spending a Dime

As fall turns to winter, energy usage turns into higher energy bills and, according to the Department of Energy, 2007 energy costs are increasing. While there are plenty of costly ways to save on your utility bills this winter -- buying a high efficiency furnace, radiant floor heating system or solar-paneled roof -- there also are things you can do to cut energy usage that won’t cost you a dime.

“We’re seeing a trend with consumers who want to live comfortably and efficiently,” says Chuck Smith, CEO of Hunter Fan. Smith says many consumers aren’t willing to sacrifice their comfort in the name of energy efficiency, but they do want smart solutions for consuming less.

“Having the right products and home infrastructure is only part of the equation, “says Smith. “Some of the most effective energy savings solutions can be implemented simply by knowing what to look for around your home.”

According to Smith, some of the most effective energy-savings solutions are right under your nose or, in one case, right above your head.

Follow these no-cost energy saving tips for the winter:

Flip the Switch … on Your Ceiling FanThat is

A ceiling fan is naturally energy efficient -- it circulates air while using very little electricity. Most people don’t realize a ceiling fan can help warm you up in the winter as easily as it can cool you down in the summer. In fact, less than 25 percent of people are taking advantage of the easy energy savings a ceiling fan affords.

“One of the most economical ways to save energy during the winter is to run your ceiling fan in the proper direction,” says Sandy DeWald, ceiling fans product manager for Hunter. “Many people cringe at the notion of lowering their thermostat when it’s cold out because they do not want to sacrifice comfort for lower energy bills. That’s why the ceiling fan is so important. Operated correctly, a ceiling fan that’s sized appropriately for the room can save you up to 10 percent on your heating bills.”

As DeWald explains, most ceiling fans have a switch that controls the direction of the blades. When the fan runs counter-clockwise, it blows air down, providing the cooling effect desired during warmer months. By running the fan clockwise, during colder months, it circulates the warm air near the ceiling. This circulating effect makes the room warmer, which decreases demands on heating systems and allows you to comfortably turn down your thermostat to save on energy costs.

“Turning down your thermostat just one degree can save you two percent on your heating bills,” adds DeWald. “What makes the ceiling fan even more economical is that it only costs a few pennies a day to operate.”

Get With the Program

If you don’t believe a programmable thermostat can save you a lot of money, keep reading. According to Energy Star, while many homes today have a programmable thermostat, approximately 70 percent of consumers find it too difficult to operate and, as a result, lose out on energy savings.

“Forgetting to turn down your thermostat just one time before you leave for work can mean several dollars in lost energy savings,” says Erich Schroeder, thermostat product manager for Hunter. “People have enough on their minds, and that’s why a programmable thermostat is so useful -- it doesn’t forget.”

Programmable thermostats save energy by offering convenient, pre-programmed temperature settings that allow you to scale temperatures back as you leave and warm things up upon your return. When used properly, a programmable thermostat can save you as much as $150 annually in energy costs.

“Most people perceive that a programmable thermostat is difficult to program and therefore don’t use it appropriately, but it can be as easy to set as an alarm clock. The only difference is an alarm clock won’t save you hundreds of dollars each year in energy savings -- a programmable thermostat will,” adds Schroeder.

Go Unplugged

Did you know that up to 75 percent of the electricity used to power home electronics is consumed while the products are turned off? According to the Department of Energy (DOE), power continues to run through your home electronics even when you have them turned off -- yes, even the coffee maker.

Now, consider that approximately 60 percent of your energy bill is electricity -- 15 percent of that from electrical devices -- and it’s easy to imagine how much you can save as a result of doing some simple unplugging this winter.

Some of the most common household devices that consume electricity while not in operation include: computers, TVs, cable boxes, cell phone chargers and other power adapters and anything else with a microchip that requires at least some juice to keep its inner clock ticking. So, while you might think it’s a nice convenience to have a clock around every corner, if you want to save money, don’t rely on your VCR or microwave to display the time.

Creating a daily unplugging routine is easy. For starters, go around the house and unplug those devices that do not need to be plugged in, especially those that operate in standby mode such as computers and home entertainment systems. According to the National Resources Defense Fund, cable and satellite set-up boxes, and digital video recorders are among the worst offenders of using energy when not in use.

For those often-used devices that also are found in groups, such as the TV, cable and surround sound system or the computer, printer and scanner, use a power strip. It allows you to run a number of devices from one power source and operates via one convenient switch.

Assess Your Saving Potential.

If you are interested in energy savings but don’t know where to start, performing a home energy audit is a good first step.

Performing an energy audit will help you prioritize your energy upgrade needs and give you a better understanding for how you and your home consume energy. A good energy auditor will uncover any air leaks or insulation problems and recommend energy saving products. The Department of Energy provides a free, do-it-yourself plan that can be found at www.eere.energy.gov.

Check with your local energy company to see if they offer free professional audits. If your energy company does not perform them, they should be able to recommend an agency that will. A professional audit will give you a more accurate assessment than one you do on your own.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Energy-Saving Tips for the Home Heating Season

From compact fluorescent light bulbs to ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, consumers are interested in the latest and greatest “green,” energy-efficient products. While these products help homeowners make an impact, many consumers may overlook basic steps they can take to conserve energy in their home and lower energy costs, especially during winter months.

In fact, the Department of Energy reports that the typical American family spends more than $1,600 a year on home utility bills. And heating can account for almost half of the average family's winter energy bill. Experts recommend that consumers use basic winterizing practices and evaluate the latest heating systems to prepare their homes for colder weather.

Home maintenance and preparation should include:

• Sealing leaks around doors and windows.
• Adding weather-stripping or replacing worn stripping around doors and windows.
• Inspecting and cleaning chimneys.
• Caulking gaps where needed.
• Checking insulation. Focus on crawl spaces, basements, walls, floors and attics.
• Vacuuming vents and other heating components.
• Consider replacing old windows and heating systems with newer, more energy-efficient models.
• Replacing furnace filters.

“There are quick, cost-effective ways to manage your energy expenditures this winter, like having a trusted, local heating and cooling contractor conduct a routine maintenance check on your system,” says Kevin Dudash of Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems. “Additionally, a dealer can provide information about larger investments a homeowner can make to reduce energy costs associated with the winter season.”

A reliable dealer can help homeowners compare the cost of a new system to the estimated savings they may experience over the years following their initial investment. For example, although they may cost more up front, studies show heating cost savings of up to 25 percent when consumers install hybrid solutions, such as the Hybrid Heat Dual Fuel system by Bryant. The combination of a furnace and heat pump creates a system that always works at maximum efficiency. The energy-saving duo capitalizes on less expensive electricity to heat the home in milder weather, switching to more effective gas heating in colder weather.

Consumers can easily find a reliable contractor who will do whatever it takes to keep their home running at maximum efficiency. Visitors to www.bryant.com can even search by zip code for a qualified dealer in their area.

With the right home maintenance practices and a knowledgeable, trusted heating and cooling system dealer, homeowners can assure a comfortable, cost and energy-efficient winter.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

How To Build A Rainwater Collection System

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Recycle your rainwater and keep your landscaping looking healthy, the eco-friendly way. Building a rainwater collection system is fast, easy and can save you money on your water bill.

How to reduce your energy bills

Home improvement expert Lou Manfredini shares a few easy steps to make your home more energy efficient. For more information, visit www.marvin.com/energy

Simple Tips for Saving Water

Are you doing everything you can to preserve water? You may be thinking to yourself, "Sure, I only water the grass on my assigned day and wash dishes when the machine is full." But if you run the water while brushing your teeth, flush tissue and bugs down the toilet instead of throwing them in the trash, and still have an old toilet in operation in your home, you are actually part of the problem.

Did you know that if you have a toilet from 1994 or before, it can use as much as seven gallons for a single flush? That’s a lot compared to today’s 1.6-gallon per flush (gfp) toilets -- the maximum allowable flush volume by law. Older toilets can also waste water through leaks, which are often undetectable. Worn rubber flappers degrade and warp and can leak up to 200 gallons of water a day. You can check for leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the coloring has trickled into the bowl over the course of 15 minutes, you’ve got a leak. (If you try this test, don’t leave the food coloring in the tank more than 15 minutes or it could permanently stain your fixture.)

A relatively inexpensive way to conserve is to purchase a new low-consumption toilet. The American Standard FloWise toilet was the first gravity-fed toilet to reduce water consumption by more than 20 percent from 1.6-gallons to a 1.28-gallon flow rate. Many people are afraid to let go of their old water-guzzling toilets because they think the newer low-flow models don’t work. But the FloWise can deliver high-efficiency performance because it uses American Standard’s proprietary Champion 4 flushing technology, which forces the water into the bowl three times faster than a standard toilet. The FloWise gets a lot of power out of less water.

Now the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is helping consumers choose the right products by marking them with the new WaterSense label. WaterSense works much like the ENERGY STAR program for appliances. By prominently designating products and services that conserve water and perform as intended, the labeling program makes it easy for consumers to identify and select high-performance water-efficient products for their homes.

American Standard’s FloWise toilet carries the WaterSense label. FloWise uses 1.28 gpf, so it qualifies as a “high-efficiency toilet,” or an HET. To earn the WaterSense label, a toilet must use only 1.28 gpf. American Standard is a partner in the EPA’s program to promote water efficiency and market efficient products, programs and practices.

Make Easy Changes

According to an EPA expert on water conservation, if there’s one change homeowners can do, it is to get rid of every rain head in their showers because it is the single greatest water waster in American bathrooms today.

The good news is that fixture manufacturers are offering new showerhead technology to solve the problem without compromising on performance. Replacing showerheads is also a simple and quick change. The new American Standard FloWise showerheads, for example, have a small turbine-like mechanism that spins the water stream through the head, creating an energizing spray just like the standard 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm) showerheads.

The best part is that these new showerheads use only 1.5 gpm -- that’s 40 percent less than the current code requirements for showerheads without sacrificing performance.

Get Smart

Anyone can check the Internet and local Department of Natural Resources for specific information about how to conserve water. The EPA also helps consumers locate their local watershed information and provides water conservation tips.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Swap a Light - Save Energy and Money

The Environmental Protection Agency says if every American changed just one light bulb to an Energy Star qualified bulb, we'd save enough energy to light 7 million homes. So what's the difference between a traditional incandescent bulb and an energy saving compact florescent?

Compact florescent light bulbs use 75 percent less energy than most standard bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. While the price of an Energy Star CFL may initially be greater, the EPA says the energy savings from the bulb more than makes up the difference. Using just one compact florescent can save you $30 on your energy bill over the course of a year. It's not just homeowners cashing in on the savings - corporations have begun getting in the act, as well.

The Bank of America Tower in Miami recently began switching to more efficient bulbs. When the town of Amherst, NY, updated some 100 buildings with - among other improvements - energy efficient lighting, the result was about three-quarters of a million dollars in savings each year.

This year, as part of Energy Star's annual "Change a Light, Change the World" campaign, Sylvania is encouraging 100,000 people to make a pledge to replace at least one incandescent bulb with an Energy Star rated one. Consumers can log onto www.sylvania.com to take the pledge.

It's Easy Being Green When Painting

As we become more aware of the impact our choices have on the world around us, there are plenty of simple do-it-yourself projects to embrace that can beautify a home while still being kind to the environment.

Whether it’s adding energy-efficient lighting or appliances, upgrading to water-saving plumbing fixtures or painting walls with a fresh coat of environmentally friendly paint, a few smart home-improvement decisions can make it easier than ever to be “green.”

“Homeowners can easily incorporate ‘green’ elements into their living space,” says Dan Johnston, national director of the American Lung Association's Health House program, which aims to educate consumers about the importance of indoor air quality. "Products such as low-VOC paint are not only better for the environment, but can also improve air quality within the home.”

Paint is one of the quickest ways to “green” your home while sprucing up its appearance. What could be easier than refreshing a child’s room, kitchen or bath with colorful hues that not only look stunning, but will dazzle for years and are gentle to the environment and the well-being of the home’s residents?

No matter what color you choose to incorporate into your space, here is some expert advice to keep in mind when it comes to paint selection that is both good for your home and the environment:

VOCs: How Low Can You Go?

The buzzword (or initials) in paint these days is VOC, or volatile organic compound. Simply put, VOCs are vapors that can be detected by odors in the air -- such as gasoline emissions or even the smell of pizza -- that can affect a home’s indoor air quality.

When it comes to paint, look for products that have low to no VOCs. For example, Harmony Interior Latex from Sherwin-Williams is a zero-VOC, low-odor coating that allows for immediate use of newly painted spaces. That makes it an ideal selection for rooms such as nurseries or kids’ play areas.

“A low or no-VOC paint is a great ‘green’ option for any do-it-yourselfer,” says Steve Revnew, director of marketing, product development for Sherwin-Williams. “With a product like Harmony, you do not have to wait for paint fumes to dissipate before moving back into a space. This paint can even be applied with other family members in the room.”

Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff -- Or the Splatters

With advancements in environmentally friendly paint, you won’t have to worry about cooking splatters and spots in the kitchen; water marks in the steamy bath; or remnants of your kids’ murals on the family room walls. In other words, using “green” paint doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice quality or durability.

Products such as Duration Home Interior Latex from Sherwin-Williams, allow you to wipe away most smudges, spills and splatters with water or mild soap without scrubbing. And its antimicrobial properties resist mildew and mold, making it a good choice for high-traffic kitchens, baths, hallways and children’s rooms -- anywhere long-lasting stain resistance is essential. This paint also negates the worry of unsightly burnish marks -- the “shiny” spots that can appear when walls are cleaned or accidentally rubbed.

Confident In Color

Finally, you’ll want to look for an environmentally friendly paint that maintains its color without rubbing off. Ask the store representative how well the paint washes even in the deep, bold accent colors that are popular today for the home. In the past, a drawback to using these bright hues has been how poorly they wash, but new technology creates a smooth paint surface guaranteeing enduring results.

In the long run, a vast number of environmentally friendly products for your dwelling abound and refreshing your home with a splash of paint is a simple way to put a little “green” into your home – without compromising on quality or spending a lot of “green.”

For more information on environmentally friendly paint solutions, visit sherwin-williams.com or your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams store.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

ENERGY STAR Qualified Replacement Windows and Doors May Earn Homeowners Up to $500 Tax Credit

Homeowners may be eligible to receive a one-time credit of up to $500 on their 2007 federal income tax if they purchase and install ENERGY STAR® qualified windows and doors before December 31, 2007 .

In addition to the tax savings, energy efficient replacement windows can also significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. With rising energy costs and the return of cooler weather fast approaching, many homeowners are actively looking for ways to reduce their monthly heating bills.

According to ENERGY STAR, the average American household spends $1,900 annually on energy bills and as much as half of that energy cost goes to heating and cooling your home.

Homeowners who want to make a big impact on reducing their energy bills can start by looking out the window. Or rather, at the window. Traditionally, poor performing windows and doors have been the weak energy link in homes, often accounting for up to 40 percent of a home's heat loss during the winter.

Craig Evanich, president of Renewal by Andersen, suggests homeowners look at key energy efficiency designations from their replacement windows such as product certification and labeling via the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and qualification by ENERGY STAR, a voluntary program issued by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

NFRC's goal is to provide a credible certification and labeling program providing consumers a reliable way to make product comparisons. NFRC ratings are provided for the entire product (glass, frame and sash/panel) and not just glass only. Evanich says, "When comparing windows, be sure to check a window's U-Factor on the NFRC label. A window with a lower U-Factor has better insulation properties, reduces heat loss during the heating season and provides more comfort. U-Factors can range from 0.15 to 1.20. In colder climates, a factor of 0.35 or lower is recommended."

The ENERGY STAR program sets energy efficiency requirements for heat loss and heat gain based on different climate zones. The ENERGY STAR label is designed to help homeowners make energy efficient choices and achieve substantial savings in heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing inefficient single pane windows with ENERGY STAR qualified windows could save up to 15 percent on your energy bills.

Homeowners are increasingly seeking products that not only help reduce their energy consumption, but do so in an environmentally responsible manner. This means taking into consideration the full product life-cycle, from materials to manufacturing and use to recycling and disposal.

According to Evanich, every Renewal by Andersen® window frame is manufactured using a patented composite material that is a blend of 40 percent reclaimed wood fiber and 60 percent thermoplastic polymers by volume. This low-maintenance framing material never needs painting or scraping, reducing waste created by ongoing maintenance.*

Wood fibers used in this composite material are reclaimed directly from manufacturing processes, helping to minimize the overall impact on the environment. In fact, in 2001 Renewal by Andersen became the first replacement window manufacturer to earn Green Seal certification, and continues to be the only replacement window manufacturer to be Green Seal certified today. This designation identifies a product as environmentally preferable, demonstrating it meets energy efficiency requirements and is manufactured in an environmentally conscious manner.

Evanich says that a window's durability is key to making energy efficient windows an investment for the long term, and avoiding future waste. He suggests shopping for quality windows that are supported by a strong warranty and that shoppers look for long-term value over price. "Saving a few dollars now could mean another replacement project just a few years down the road," said Evanich.

About Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen is the start-to-finish replacement window division of Andersen Corporation. The company offers homeowners a replacement process that includes in-home consultation, manufacturing, and installation through one of the largest nationwide networks of window replacement specialists spanning coast to coast.

For a complimentary in-home consultation, or to view more information about Renewal by Andersen, visit http://www.renewalbyandersen.com

** Most Renewal by Andersne windows and doors with High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass will qualify when used for remodeling or home improvement. Please consult your tax planner and review all IRS guidelines. Rnewal by Andersen is not a tax advistor and bears no responsibility in the validation of obtaining the tax credit
*See the Renewal by Andersen limited warranty."ENERGY STAR" is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
"Renewal by Andersen" and all other marks where denoted, are trademarks of Andersen Corporation.
©2007 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

Source: PRWeb

Replace Your Home’s Biggest Water Waster

Ready to make your home more environmentally friendly? If you’re planning to join the ranks of those who want to do their part for Planet Earth, the bathroom is a good place to start.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets, showers and faucets combined represent two-thirds of all indoor water use, with toilets being the biggest water guzzler of all. It’s a good time to replace older models with the new efficient ones. Here are five things to keep in mind as you shop for a new one:

1. Educate yourself on High Efficiency Toilets (HETs).

A HET is defined as a fixture that uses 20 percent less water than the 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) requirement set by the government. Though still voluntary, HETs are becoming a significant part of the marketplace as manufacturers recognize the compelling need for water conservation and water authorities incorporate them into their toilet replacement programs. You’ll save the most water with an HET.

2. Consider dual flush technology.

A dual-flush toilet offers two different flush volumes: a little flush and a big flush. Popular in Europe and Asia, and even mandated in Australia, dual flush toilets are increasingly recognized for their common sense approach to water conservation as well as their effectiveness. While many manufacturers offer them, none has more than Caroma, the Australian company that invented the technology 25 years ago, with 30 models now available.

A family of four can save 13,000 gallons of water per year by using a dual-flush toilet instead of a single flush model installed after 1994, and 52,000 gallons of water compared to the older toilets that still exist in many homes. If every home replaced their single flush toilets with dual flush ones, 3.9 trillion gallons of water per year could be saved.

3. Look for the Water Sense Label.

The EPA’s new labeling program, called WaterSense, guides consumers to the most water efficient products. Only HETs qualify for WaterSense; and only those certified in independent laboratory testing to meet rigorous criteria for both performance and water efficiency are awarded the label. Caroma now has 29 WaterSense toilets available.

4. Choose an Easy Installation Solution.

Select a new toilet that will cover the footprint of your old unit to avoid the need to replace or repair the floor. For example, Caroma models are designed to fit over most other footprints making them an ideal choice for retrofitting as well as saving water.

5. Check for replacement programs.

Many local water authorities offer significant rebates, sometimes even free toilets, to customers who trade in their old toilets for more environmentally friendly models. Check your local water authority website.

In addition to replacing an older toilet with a newer, more efficient one, other environmentally friendly improvements you can make in the bathroom include switching to a low flow showerhead, which according to the EPA will save 18,250 gallons of water a year; and switching out standard aerators for reduce-flow ones. You should also check your faucets for leaks. Just one drippy faucet can waste up to 13 gallons each day. And you might not even hear it draining your wallet until it's too late. The best way to catch sneaky leaks is to check your water meter. Make sure all the water is off in the house, then look at the meter to make sure the needle isn't moving.

To learn more about dual flush technology, how to save water and to find a store close to you, log on to http://www.caromausa.com/.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tankless Water Heater Buying Guide

PlumberSurplus.com brings you a video buying guide on Tankless Water Heaters, their variations, uses, and the selection process. Whether its a Electric Tankless Water Heater, Natural Gas Tankless Water Heater, Propane Tankless Water Heater or Tankless Water Heater Accessories our Tankless Water Heater Video Buying Guide helps people break down the complexities.

Touch-free Faucets Go Green, Get Beautiful

The green movement has turned on the tap of creativity for many manufacturers of bathroom fixtures and accessories. With homeowners increasingly demanding products that are good for the environment, promote healthier lifestyles and complement their interior décor, innovations are flowing into the market place.

The best example of the bathroom’s transformation may just be the evolution of the faucet from lowly water delivery product to lofty conservation tool and design statement, says Amadou Diallo of Fontaine Faucets. While faucets that combine beautiful form with efficient function have been available for some time, the hottest new trend puts a high-tech update on an existing technology: hands-free operation.

There’s no arguing the hygienic advantages of a bathroom fixture that doesn’t require you to touch it in order to operate it. Airports and other high-traffic public places have used the technology for years. But if you’ve ever stood in front of one of these infrared faucets, vainly waiving your hands to elicit a stream of water, you know why the technology hasn’t made its way into home baths – until now.

“We now have the ability to create a faucet that works automatically whenever your hands are anywhere near it,” says Diallo. “That means no more hunting for the beam that infrared sensors use to trigger the flow of water.”

Fontaine has recently begun marketing a conversion kit that allows do-it-yourselfers to turn their traditional Fontaine faucet into a hands-free one. Homeowners looking to replace an existing faucet can purchase a new Fontaine product that comes equipped with the Sensa Field technology.

The next generation of touch-free faucets offers homeowners a myriad of advantages:

* Reliable operation is now a reality. Fontaine’s Sensa Field technology senses a user from any angle. The sensing zone surrounds the entire spout, ensuring activation every time a user’s hands approach.

* Elimination of a major source of germ transmission.

* Encourages effective hand-washing, a top way to prevent the spread of disease.

* Easy to install and easy to use, the new faucets leave behind the unattractive, utilitarian look that characterizes infrared touch-free faucets. Designs emphasize elegance and draw inspiration from popular models to ensure compatibility with virtually any interior décor.

* The technology enhances conservation efforts by doing away with unnecessary and unattended water flow. This can save homeowners up to 70 percent on water costs.

“Homeowners have long understood the value of touch-free function,” says Diallo. “But until now, that value wasn’t available in a reliable, attractive form. Touch-free faucets that leave infrared behind are the next hot thing in baths, and may soon become the standard in quality new home construction.”

To learn more about Fontaine Faucets’ Sensa Field technology, visit www.fontainebrand.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Conservation Starts at Home: Everyday Tips for Going Green

It seems green is the color for the season, and not just on the runway. Environmentalism is here in full force, and by the looks of things, it’s here to stay. One area that is red hot -- or green hot, as the case may be -- is making your home environmentally friendly. And it’s no wonder. Anything that saves money and the planet is a sure-fire win in anyone’s book. If you are looking for a way to go green around the house, start by taking steps to conserve water and energy. Try out these easy ways to care for the earth, enjoy your home and save money.

Don’t Waste the Water

When it comes to water conservation, every drop counts. Look around your home for any leaky faucets and get them repaired as soon as possible. You can also save on water in the bathroom by installing low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators. They save on energy costs by cutting down on water usage, and with less hot water being used, less water is being heated.

Laundry is also a big water-eater. With kids, it seems clothes get dirtier by the second. But you can easily conserve water by adjusting your “squeamish” threshold. Dry off with that towel more than once before tossing it into the hamper. And, unless you are out roping steer every day, you can often get by with a two or three wears before laundering your jeans. Remember, every little bit helps.

By far, the best way to conserve water is to make it a family affair. Get your kids on the bandwagon by teaching them the value of water. Show them how to turn off the water when they brush their teeth or take a quick shower, and of course, set a great example.

Green Up the Air

Heating and cooling our homes is one of those touchy subjects we all have to deal with. Sure, I want to save energy and preserve our planet, but when sweat is dripping down my neck in the summer and my teeth are chattering in the winter, self-preservation wins out every time. Fortunately, there are great ways to save on energy costs so you can feel comfortable without feeling guilty.

Hands down, the best way to green your home is to invest in a high-efficiency HVAC system that is Energy Star certified. By installing a high-efficiency HVAC system you will reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses emitted. And if that’s not enough to smile about, you also shave a big chunk of change off your utility bills. Look for a product with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, which means it meets strict government standards for energy efficiency. Today’s government standard is 13 SEER, but American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning has a wide range of products on the market that meet and exceed the standard, reaching as high as 18 SEER.

Another helpful tip is to clean out your filters or replace them regularly. A dirty filter will quickly hamper the airflow, costing you more money to run your system. And, of course, when you’re not home, adjust your thermostat to compliment the changing weather temperatures outside. One of the easiest ways to regulate this is to use an automated thermostat. American Standard has a variety of thermostats to choose from. Just as every drop of water counts, every temperature degree counts. You can save about three percent of your heating costs for every degree you lower your thermostat during the winter, and up to six percent for every degree you raise it during the summer. This adds up quickly!

Greening it Together

Make saving energy a game by getting the family on board. Post your utility bill where everyone in the family can see it, and as a group try to lower it by ten dollars next month, perhaps twenty the month after that. Before you realize it, you’ll be line drying heavy items like comforters or pants, or cleaning out the filters in your fridge to make it run more efficiently. Little steps here and there add up in no time.

No one has to suffer when it comes to greening up your home. On the contrary, by making the challenge fun, you can get everyone in the family on board. As a result, everyone comes out a winner -- your home, your wallet, your family and your planet.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Handy Homeowners Can Add Natural Light Quickly

If you’re a homeowner with an area in your home that needs more natural light -- say a hallway, laundry room, closet, or a windowless bathroom -- an easy-to-install tubular skylight could be the answer. And if you’re one of the millions of handy do-it-yourselfers in America, you can handle the installation in a weekend morning. But even if you’re a little wary of cutting a hole in your perfectly good roof yourself, a reasonably priced installation by a professional can be easily arranged. Either way, you gain more passive natural light and a lower power bill.

Velux Sun Tunnel skylights bring passive natural light into the home and particularly into areas where traditional skylights aren’t needed or won’t fit. They capture light very efficiently through a clear, weatherproof dome on the roof. The light travels into the home through highly reflective tubing, ending at a diffuser in the ceiling that looks like a traditional in-ceiling light fixture. The units offer a choice of highly reflective rigid tubing between the roof and ceiling or flexible tubing to easily bypass HVAC equipment or other obstructions in the attic. They are less expensive than many traditional skylights and easier to install.

According to Tim Johnson, product manager with VELUX America, the skylights are available in a variety of models in 10”, 14” and 22” diameters for different spaces and lighting needs. “The installation process is very straight-forward,” Johnson says, “with many components pre-assembled right out of the box so a handy homeowner can handle the installation in two to three hours.”

The skylights are available at big box stores, building supply dealers, and specialty retail outlets. Optional light kits are available that install inside the tunnels for nighttime use.

And now is a particularly good time to consider upgrading existing skylights or adding new units to qualify for a tax credit of up to $200 under the Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2005. Details are available at www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm.

For information on skylight selection and the benefits of natural light call (800) 283-2831 or visit www.veluxusa.com. For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit www.energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit www.nfrc.org or www.efficientwindows.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Michelle Kaufmann and Flux, Inc. Launch Green Lighting Line

A leader in sustainable design, Michelle Kaufmann Designs (MKD) has made the leap from sustainable homes to sustainable home products.

In an effort to bring sleek, affordable, eco-friendly lighting to the industry, MKD has teamed up with Seattle-based industrial design studio, Flux Inc., to build a line of modern, energy efficient lighting fixtures. With one tenth of all electricity in the United States consumed by lighting, the sector represents a huge opportunity for conservation through new technologies like compact fluorescence and LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes).

First in the new series from MKD and Flux, VESSEL is a vase-like fixture designed as an entry way light or wall sconce. The tall, slender, steel and glass form features a secure mounting base that dramatically lights a large, durable, blown-glass vase from below. VESSEL not only casts light upward, illuminating the vase and its contents, but also downward, offering a great design solution for lighting house numbers or entry steps.

VESSEL is beautiful on its own, or filled with personal objects like colored glass marbles, polished stones, or dried flowers. Water brings life into the lit chamber of the vase. Add flowers, bamboo, or even goldfish (the fixture's efficiency will keep the water from getting hot!).

VESSEL is available with compact fluorescent lamping or an optional LED assembly and complies fully with ADA (American Disabilities Act.)

These lighting technologies:

• Last up to 15x longer than traditional, Edison-style bulbs.
• Use less than 1/5th of the energy of the old-fashioned bulbs.
• Produce light with a fraction of the heat of incandescent bulbs.
• Stand up to extreme weather conditions (-5F to 122F).

About Michelle Kaufmann Designs
In 2002, architect Michelle Kaufmann founded Michelle Kaufmann Designs (MKD) in an effort to bring thoughtful, sustainable buildings accessible to all.

MKD is a full service architectural and design firm that specializes in sustainable, innovative, high quality living. MKD is a proud partner of ENERGY STAR and is fully committed to creating highly efficient and healthy buildings. They have LEED accredited architects on staff and are a member of the US Green Building Council. MKD's mission: to make thoughtful, sustainable living accessible to all.

About Flux Inc.
Flux Incorporated is a Seattle-based industrial design studio founded by Bradley Sweek in 1994. The company specializes in building lighting products from modern forms with clarity and a thoughtful engagement of materials and craft. Flux designs and manufactures its products in-house from its 45,000 square foot, UL certified, fabrication plant south of downtown Seattle. Previous clients and design partners have included Dodd Mitchell, Marriott Hotels, Eddie Vedder, The Roosevelt Hotel and Sub Pop Records.

Sweek describes the relationship with MKD as a natural meeting of the minds, "Michelle Kaufmann's commitment to the long view has put her well ahead of the curve with the innovations and planning that make sustainable building practices the new norm. These are the values that energize us at Flux too. It's what makes it fun to go to work. We relished the opportunity to collaborate and learn from her leadership."

Source: PRWeb

New Solar Technology Helps Homeowners Save Money

If you’re both eco-conscious and money-conscious, it’s time to take a fresh look at solar energy. You could save up to 50 percent on your water heating bills and qualify for federal solar energy tax credits.

Using the sun for renewable energy should begin when you start building a new house, according to the Department of Energy. Design your home to avoid overhead summer sun and to benefit from winter sun in cooler climates. Use skylights and sun tubes. Natural light is easier on the eyes for reading and household tasks and may slow the growth of mold and mildew. According to many realtors, a house suffused with sunlight is more appealing to buyers and can substantially increase its resale value.

Using solar energy for pool heating and for extending your swim season is one of the most attractive options today. Solar heat is more economical over the life of the system than a pool heater that uses electricity, fuel oil or propane gas. Compared to other pool heating technologies, a solar pool heating system pays for itself within two to four years. The energy is provided free from the sun, delivers minimal maintenance costs and is clean, safe and quiet. Solar pool heating adds substantial value to your pool and to your home.

Even hot water heaters can now harness the power of the sun. The newest and most innovative way to use the sun’s energy is through FAFCO’s solar hot water systems. In a 10-year collaboration with the Department of Energy, FAFCO developed Hot2o, the world’s first lightweight, affordable, all-polymer, do-it-yourself solar hot water system designed to reduce water heating bills by about half.

“The debut of this technology marks a significant milestone in the history of solar energy because of the potential savings to consumers worldwide and the ability to reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional energy sources,” says Freeman A. Ford, Solar Hall of Fame inductee and co-founder of FAFCO Inc. “Hot2o saves homeowners money and helps them live a little greener.”

The Hot2o solar hot water system replaces heavy, expensive and difficult-to-ship glazed copper collectors with lightweight, inexpensive and easy-to-ship polymer collectors. Hot2o is designed to work with any conventional residential hot water tank. The entire system fits in a single box and weighs less than 62 pounds. The system can be safely deployed on a roof by a single person using typical household tools.

Homeowners can begin seeing a return on investment as soon as the system is installed. Hot2o typically pays for itself in less than five years, as compared to 10 to 20 years with traditional glazed copper solar hot water systems.

The Department of Energy estimates that an average household with an electric water heater spends about 25 percent of its home energy costs on heating water. Electricity generated by fossil fuels for a single home puts more carbon dioxide into the air than two average cars. Continuing to use traditional energy resources to generate household power and heat hot water is a heavy burden both financially and environmentally.

Homeowners who invest in solar energy systems for generating electricity or heating water can qualify for a 30 percent federal solar energy tax credit under the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006, which was extended through 2008

For homeowners who want to protect the environment - and save a few dollars in the process - it’s time to take another look at solar energy. For more information, visit www.hot2o.com and www.fafco.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent