Solar Air Conditioning: Putting The Sun To Work In Your Home

A residential solar-energy system uses solar modules, made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, to harvest the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity that can be used to power your lights, appliances and other electrical devices in the home. Solar energy is an infinitely renewable resource that uses the sun’s rays to generate the electricity you need. By going solar, you can reduce your energy costs and lower your dependence on fossil fuels. Here's an overview of the types of home solar energy systems available.

Grid-tied PV systems: A grid-tied system is the most common and least expensive of all residential solar systems. It allows you to use your own solar-generated electricity to save energy and reduce costs. At times when the PV system isn't producing electricity, such as at night, electricity is provided by the utility company’s grid, or network of power stations.

Why Your Home's A/C Freezes Up In Summer

Here's the all-to-familiar scenario with our average homeowner, whom we'll call Frank. He's at home, minding his own business, happily a bowl of popcorn and a b-movie... when he notices that awful sound; drip... drip... drip... Frank looks over to see the cat licking at a puddle that's slowly forming on the kitchen floor. Suddenly: worry, stress, and that awful sinking feeling. What will the leak mean for his budget, and where did it come from; water heater, leaky toilet, shower, faucet? Nope. It's the air conditioner of all things. Frank's central air conditioner is frozen solid. But, there's hope.

When and Why Should Air Conditioning Filters Be Replaced?

Your air conditioner has an important job to do in the summer months. It has to keep the indoor humidity level and temperature comfortable. If the thought of living without your air conditioning system is daunting, it’s advisable to have it regularly maintained to ensure it keeps humming along.

What you personally can do to help it function at its best is to replace the filters when needed. You’ll soon come to know the importance of air conditioning filters when your family starts getting sick or when your cooling costs increase.

The Scary Truth about Electrical Hazards in the Home and How to Avoid Them

Electricity is the most dangerous and scariest hazard in the home. It is completely odorless, it is silent, and it moves at record-defying speeds. When it strikes, it can destroy objects and property in its path. If an object is a human, electricity can cause severe disfigurement or disability – if it doesn’t first kill that person.