HVAC System Resolutions for 2024
Have you been naughty or nice to your HVAC system this year? If you’ve been naughty, you may have paid the price with higher utility bills, maybe a lack of comfort, and maybe even some unexpected repair or replacement bills. In 2024, resolve to be nice to your HVAC system. Here are a few thoughts. […]
Plumbing System Resolutions for 2024
It’s December. That means fun, festivities and family. Maybe a little travel. It also means you are asking: “What can I do better in 2024?” It’s probably not top of mind, but when you are “resolving”, resolve to take care of your plumbing system. Here are some suggestions from Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric: […]
How Long Do Things Last?
As the new year approaches, you may be contemplating some major purchases for next year, while understanding that “things happen” and you should be prepared. Given that, here are some guidelines on estimated life for various items in your home, from plumbing and electrical components to HVAC equipment and more. Note, of course, that actual […]
Benefits of Wi-Fi Thermostats
Back in the day (just a few years ago), programmable thermostats not connected to the Internet were all the rage. But they were hard to program, and of course did not reap the benefits of Internet connectivity. Today the world is different. Programmable Wi-Fi (aka “smart”) thermostats offer many benefits, described below. Note: Before you […]
Preventing and Dealing with Frozen Pipes
Last winter, we experienced mild weather, with temperatures in January and February well above normal and even averaging above freezing. Still, there were several days when it was frigid enough for pipes to freeze and burst. If those pipes burst, it can lead to expensive property and possession damage as well as mold growth. With […]
14 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality in the Winter
After an unusually mild – even pleasant – fall, cold weather has arrived. That means more time indoors, breathing in the indoor air. Indoor air is not as clean as outdoor air. Indoor air contains all sorts of undesirable things, such as spores, mold, dust, pet dander and pollen. That presents health risks, especially for […]
Heat Recovery Ventilators
Keeping the air in your home fresh and clean is important. One way to do this is with an air exchanger. These systems transfer stale air from inside your home and exchange that air with fresh outside air. There are two types of energy recovery systems: Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) and Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs). […]
How to Use Your Ceiling Fan in Winter
As winter sets in and temperatures plummet, most of us are inclined to rely on our heating systems to stay warm and cozy indoors. However, what if there was a simple, cost-effective way to enhance your comfort without jacking up your heating bills? Enter the humble ceiling fan – a versatile appliance that, when used […]
Benefits of Installing Under Cabinet Lighting
If you have ever walked into a kitchen with under cabinet lighting, you can attest to the fact that it adds a certain wow-factor that traditional lighting just doesn’t provide. The warm, gentle glow that emanates from underneath kitchen cabinets can instantly transform the way the space looks and feels. And while creating a stunning […]
Why Is My Heat Pump Turning On and Off Frequently?
As we enter the cold weather months, it’s important to make sure that our heating systems are in top shape. One common issue that homeowners may face is a heat pump turning on and off frequently. This can be frustrating, while also increasing your energy bill and potentially causing wear and tear to air source […]