Don’t Be Shocked (Electrically, That Is)
An electrical shock may simply cause a minor jolt; but it can also be fatal! Fortunately, there is an easy way to help prevent shocks – by installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) that detect potentially dangerous ground faults and quickly shut off the power. Most local communities follow the National Electrical Code issued by […]
Resolve to Be More Energy Efficient in 2013
We are reasonably confident the Mayans got it wrong, and the world will not be ending this week. Given that, you’re going to have to come up with those New Year’s resolutions. In addition to the standards like exercising more and eating healthier, resolve to save energy. Here are just a few tips. You don’t […]
Should You Replace Your Furnace Today?
In 2007, the U.S. Congress passed the Energy Security and Independence Act (the “2007 Energy Bill”). This bill set a new precedent by allowing the Department of Energy (DOE) to develop regional standards for the installation of heating and cooling equipment. In northern states, high-efficiency furnaces are required after May 1, 2013. Will This Affect […]
Stay Warm
Are we going to get lucky two years in a row and have a mild winter? No predictions here. But just in case, here are a few common sense tips that have nothing to do with your furnace that you can do to stay warm, and maybe even cut a few pennies off that utility […]
Ravinia Plumbing & Heating Wins 2011 Carrier Corp. President’s Award
Deerfield, IL– April 4, 2012 – Ravinia Plumbing & Heating was recently awarded a 2011 President’s Award from Carrier Corp. The Highland Park-based HVAC dealer, which also won the award in 2010, was selected and honored at a ceremony held on April 1 in Las Vegas. “Carrier President’s Award recipients focus on delivering exceptional products and […]
Getting Into Hot Water (Temperature Setting)
There are a few discrepancies regarding the temperature setting of a water heater. The Illinois state plumbing code requires that the maximum temperature produced from a tub and shower valve is 115 degrees Fahrenheit. This law is in place to prevent being scalded by hot water. There are three ways to solve this problem. First, […]
How To Clean A Whirlpool Tub
The following directions should remove the odor from and clean the piping of a whirlpool tub. For a 1 person whirlpool tub: Fill the tub with hot water Add 2 teaspoons of granular Cascade (no substitutions) Add 4 to 6 oz bleach Run the whirlpool for 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the tub then fill […]
Pros & Cons of Tankless Water Heaters
Positive Points: Endless supply of hot water if sized properly and used properly. Takes up less space. If properly maintained will outlast a conventional unit. Does not have stand-by losses associated with conventional units with can save approximately $120.00 per year. 10% to 20% increase in overall energy efficiency over a conventional tank-style water heater. […]
Differences in Flood Control Systems
1. Standpipes: a. Benefits: Inexpensive, installed into basement floordrain(s). b. Drawbacks: If you do not have a sump pump the drain tile can still flood the house. Use can put back pressure on the sewer and cause damage. Home may still get water from seepage under the floor through cracks. Standpipes can be unsightly and […]
Humidifier Operation
Is Your Home Equipped With A Humidifier? Many customers are under the impression that because a home is equipped with a humidifier, the home should always be humid. There are several factors that limit the operation of the humidifier and the amount of moisture that will be placed into the home. Most humidifiers have a […]