tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6069479910860603752024-03-13T02:05:25.068-07:00Aune Plumbing LLCRelevant information you can use now, written in plain English. Please visit my website http://auneplumbing.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-78639404203919499742013-11-05T10:10:00.002-08:002013-11-05T10:10:39.364-08:00The Start of the Heating Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fall brings about many changes here in Minnesota. The old joke about the weather, the one that goes like this: "If you don't like the weather, just wait a minute because its bound to change.." seems to be most appropriate in October and November. One change we often ignore, with the exception of complaining about it on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Aune-Plumbing-LLC/71603972392?ref=hl" target="_blank">Facebook </a>or <a href="https://twitter.com/auneplumbing" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, is the need to turn our heat on in the house.<br />
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You may heard me talk about it in the past but this is the time of year us heating professionals call "The Shoulder Months". Its the time of year when we require our heating systems be running but the outside temps are still relatively warm; its not nearly as cold as what's to come.<br />
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This "shoulder" season often has us paying more to heat our homes than it should. Most boilers and furnaces are grossly over-sized for the load put upon them during these warmer months. In fact, unless you have very new equipment installed in your home you are most likely operating within these inefficient conditions and paying the price each month.<br />
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Let me be clear, this does not mean your heating appliance is necessarily the wrong one for your home, it's just likely that it is only capable of using the maximum amount of energy each time it turns on. This is not a efficient way of supplying comfort to your indoor environment.<br />
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The newer, higher tech boilers and furnaces we install today are capable of monitoring the outdoor temperatures and indoor temperatures and using that information to adjust the amount of energy needed at any given time. It's very much like cruise control in your vehicle. With cruise control your car will only demand of the engine what is needed to remain at the speed you desire. When the road course changes (hills, both up and down) the computer in your car will adjust the output of the engine to accommodate the change. When a boiler is told to turn on, and with this simple technology, it too realizes the change in weather and adjusts its output accordingly; it does this so that you are never paying for more energy than is needed at any given time.<br />
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This is a standard level of technology for all the boilers we install, whether new or for replacement. If you have any questions or would like to know more please contact us. We'd be happy to assess your heating system to make sure you're comfortable and operating as efficiently as possible. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-23914740207620466692013-08-12T07:44:00.000-07:002013-08-12T07:44:48.728-07:00Don't Flush The Wipes!A bathroom product that has only been on the market for a few years is gaining popularity everyday and its not from plumbing and drain cleaning professionals. These "flush-able" personal cleaning wipes are marketed as safe for your plumbing system and offer additional ways to stay clean after bathroom duties. Well, in my opinion, they're not safe for your plumbing system or whatever your plumbing is connected to outside your house. Check out this story out of San antonio, TX showing just what comes of those wipes and others that are <a href="http://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Flushable-wipes-clean-everything-but-sewers-4724397.php?t=bce9e9d1cb429ee2be" target="_blank">flushed down the loo everyday.</a><br />
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The problem is, most people have no idea or aren't paying attention when purchasing the wipes off the store shelf. I will not endorse any of the products, nearly none of them have lived up to their claim of disintegrating like standard toilet tissue. That's a problem. An expensive problem you don't want to deal with, ever. If you have a septic system stay as far away from these wipes [unless you bag them and throw them out with the trash] as you can. Septic repairs most often result in having your property dug up and the system replaced to a tune of tens of thousands of dollars. All because of a wipe?! Yes, its totally possible.<br />
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Check out this short video on this very subject by experts is testing products, <a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/video-hub/home--garden/bed--bath/flushable-wipes/16935265001/22783507001/" target="_blank">Consumer Reports</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-90392320717624952862013-04-29T07:58:00.001-07:002013-04-29T07:59:59.196-07:00All Shook Up!"Why does my house seem to come alive and resent me whenever I turn a faucet off?" -Longtime Aune Plumbing Customer and friend.<br />
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What my friend is referring to is the noises that sometimes follow the shutting off of a faucet at a sink or the workings of a dishwasher or the like. The term you may have heard before pertaining to this situation is "Water Hammer". Here is a diagram depicting water hammer and how it happens:<br />
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Water hammer, or the actions and results arising from certain piping situations is really the transfer of noise and vibration from water inside your plumbing pipes. Often the noise and vibrations show their ugly, annoying face in the form of rattling pipes. Have you ever noticed when washing clothes that when the washer is filling and stops there is a noticeable thud? The same question can be asked of a toilet filling or a dishwasher, all are related to the same root cause. Water hammer is common in any plumbing system and can go undetected, which is fine but, when detected it is often to the ire of those living with it. In rare cases it can be the cause of further property damage due to water leaks but, again this is rare.<br />
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When water flows through a pipe because a faucet or valve is opened it seems to be happy. After all, its only doing what it knows to do, flow. But this process can take a turn for the worse as soon as some of that water is told it cannot continue on with it journey when a valve stops the party (flow)...and BANG! Madness ensues with rattling pipes and noises in protest; the end result is frustration for you as a homeowner with your new found angst and annoyance but this does'n always mean you'll have to "just live with it"...<br />
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There are many products available today that can help rid the water hammer problems you may experience. The first would be pipe fasteners or supports. If plumbing pipes are accessible, a complete inspection of proper supports is in order since thins is the number one reason the noises you may be hearing are so prevalent. <br />
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These simple little devices are often called "Tube Talons" by us plumbers; since that is the name given them by the manufacturer it seems just about right we should call them that...<br />
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Seriously, they are simple to install and very effective at keeping pipes where we want them; secure and not flopping around like the time my uncle Jim decided to test out the taser that one fateful night with his buddy after a couple five too many frosty cold ones.<br />
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If you have copper piping the spacing between talons is around 6' for 1/2" & 3/4" tubing. PEX or CPVC tubing should be strapped every 32" to properly secure it.<br />
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Other devices available are used either at the source of hammer or installed to treat multiple sources as a whole home remedy. Below are individual water hammer arrestors installed at the connection of the plumbing system to a clothes washer. Since clothes washers have a fast-acting electronic solenoid valve that allows flow of water to the machine [and stops it], water hammer often arises from this exact spot.<br />
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The washer hoses simply thread onto the arrestor that is then attached to the machine. The arrestor has a small air bladder in that brass tube sticking out of the top. When the flow of water suddenly stops the bladder helps adsorb the shock and turbulence created inside the pipe [the angry water]. These devices can help the problem and lesson the effects but this may not help in every situation. Similar devices are available for installation at the connection point of a dishwasher [another fast acting solenoid water valve].<br />
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Usually treatment is most effective by installing a "whole house arrestor". In this case a small bladder tank, designed and sized for this particular use and your home specifically, is installed near the point of entry of your home's water supply. It may look similar to this:<br />
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When sized & installed properly this type of arrestor can help absorb the shock in the piping system well. Couple this with the proper support of piping and even the installation of arrestors like the one installed at the dishwasher or clothes washer and you should be able to relax a little as the noises will likely be eliminated altogether.<br />
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If you are experiencing a water hammer problem in your home and would like to explore the possible remedies, please call, email or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Have a great day and thanks for reading!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-13724435542040476652013-03-18T07:52:00.003-07:002013-03-18T10:27:06.810-07:00Honey! My shower is cold! If you've ever been caught in the middle of lathering up or ready to rinse the shampoo out of your hair only to be shocked by the sudden blast of ice cold water spewing from the shower head during your morning shower then you've no doubt experienced a water heater failure.<br />
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What most homeowners do not realize is tank water heaters have a life expectancy of about 5-10 years (Depending on factors such as use patterns, water quality and build features. Mileage may vary). Another often overlooked factor that contributes to water heater failure is maintenance. Yes, you should be maintaining your tank water heater annually. Didn't know that? Well, most people don't so you're not alone. Here are some tips on keeping that all too relied upon appliance running for a little longer, and if your wondering about replacing your water heater you can<a href="http://auneplumbing.blogspot.com/2010/07/yes-i-need-new-water-heater-but-what.html" target="_blank"> click here</a> for info about the different types of water heaters and what may work best for your home. <br />
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Tank water heaters are quite simple to understand. I've always described them as not much more than a huge pipe; after all that's pretty much what they are. Add an electric heating element or gas burner to that pipe and voila, you've got yourself a run-of-the-mill tank water heater.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_oQXD68WICU/UUcfkLhPG8I/AAAAAAAABJU/v8DG5wky2iQ/s1600/wtr_htr_gas_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_oQXD68WICU/UUcfkLhPG8I/AAAAAAAABJU/v8DG5wky2iQ/s320/wtr_htr_gas_small.jpg" title="Gas water heater cutaway" width="192" /></a></div>
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When cold water enters the tank it is deposited near the bottom so that the less dense, hotter water rises to the top and when a faucet is opened it is delivered. This process repeats itself every time hot water is needed.<br />
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Another process that repeats itself is the deposit of minerals and sediment in the bottom of that "huge pipe". As water is heated chemical reactions are underway that separate certain minerals from your water. Those minerals [all water has them, some more than others] are then left to bask in the glory of that huge pipe, or tank, as their final resting place. It's sort of like spending the day on the beach, only in this case the beach is your water heater and the minerals aren't good summer getaway guests; they will likely cause poor performance and premature failure if not taken care of properly.<br />
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Over long periods of time the minerals and sediment in your water can form a build-up on the bottom of the tank, causing problems such as lower storage capacity or overheating of the tank. Whatever the side-effects, all lead to the ultimate demise and failure of the tank. This usually presents itself in the form of a leaky tank. Leaking tanks are not repairable and are your one-way ticket to a high cost replacement bill when you've not planned for such an event. No one wants that.<br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><b>Annual Water Heater Maintenance:</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><b> </b></span> <br />
<span style="color: orange;"><b>Step 1</b> </span><br />
All water heater manufacturers recommend flushing your water heater through the drain valve as pictured on the right.<br />
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Depending on your water quality [whether you have water conditioning appliances such as a iron filter or water softener] you might consider doing this more frequently. <br />
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Simply attach a garden hose to the threaded valve, or place a bucket under it as pictured, and drain the about one-third of the tank capacity. This will do wonders at clearing out sediment and build-up of deposits on the bottom of the tank.<br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><b>Step 2</b></span><br />
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Every tank water heater is equipped with a safety device called a "Temperature/Pressure Relief Valve". Plumbers call it the "T&P" to keep it simple. This valve acts as the water heater's own personal<a href="http://omgtoptens.com/bizarre/top-10-deadliest-jobs-world/" target="_blank"> bomb squad </a>in that it relieves excess pressure if there is a major problem like super-overheating or excessive thermal expansion without anywhere for the water to expand to. <a href="http://www.watts.com/pages/support/tp.asp?catId=64" target="_blank">Click here</a> for a complete rundown on its operation. <br />
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A simple visual inspection of the valve will tell you if there is cause for concern. If you identify water dripping out of the valve outlet or obvious corrosion the valve should be replaced. Manufacturers recommend "exercising" the valve annually. This is done by gently lifting the lever, with a bucket placed under the drain tube outlet, to allow for water to flow freely. This is said to help aid in removing any build-up on the valve seal.<br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><b>Step 3</b></span><br />
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Take a look around your water heater. Get a flashlight and inspect the area around the base where it sits on the floor. Even old water heaters should look just about the same as they did when first installed. So, if you see signs of rust or stains on the outer jacket they may be cause for concern as they are likely signs of a leaking tank or piping; both of which need to be addressed by a professional.<br />
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Also, make sure the area around your heater is free of clutter. Keep stored house paint cans out of the utility room. Make sure nothing is stacked on or leaning against the heater. Your water heater is not a shelf or a clothes rack. The safety hazards of storing combustible materials on or next to it are far too dangerous. <br />
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<span style="color: orange;"><b>Finally</b></span> <br />
If you find anything<b> </b>that concerns you or any of the three steps listed above are out of your skill set please know that you can contact <a href="http://auneplumbing.com/Home.php" target="_blank">Aune Plumbing</a> to address the situation. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-12917017307758083122012-12-06T11:58:00.001-08:002012-12-06T12:00:54.027-08:00Hello Winter!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24bjOm4BXR9tqnYu6mn1yeoMDPhIimAX1hpka2_icS_vMpIbcrMWRj7T0-E2NxdBBb0HHd7TsZANqGf8hIiDIQz_9_JW8clvNA-13_OxlGsrmibS-q6wLpXMAa9-OmRhsaNXSJptJruNA/s1600/270142_4057343642973_2013425196_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24bjOm4BXR9tqnYu6mn1yeoMDPhIimAX1hpka2_icS_vMpIbcrMWRj7T0-E2NxdBBb0HHd7TsZANqGf8hIiDIQz_9_JW8clvNA-13_OxlGsrmibS-q6wLpXMAa9-OmRhsaNXSJptJruNA/s320/270142_4057343642973_2013425196_n.jpg" width="179" /></a>Winter is here. Maybe not officially but the outside temps have us relying on our heating systems daily again. Here in Minnesota we tend to have the heat turned on for about 6-8 months. This results in an enormous strain on the heating equipment in
many homes. And while many people prefer not to bother with HVAC preventative maintenance on their home heating systems. Perhaps the old saying “out of sight and out of mind” prevails.
There are those too, who choose to have their heating systems serviced
religiously. In either case breakdowns occur, combustion inducers or ignitors fail, pumps seize leading to a loss of heat, hot water or both. It is highly recommended to have all heating equipment serviced on a reqular basis. Small problems noticed during these annual service times help cut down on system operating costs, increase overall system efficiency and increase home heating system longevity.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-1825119024832213132012-09-20T07:07:00.000-07:002012-09-20T07:07:02.815-07:00They're taking, and keeping more of your $$For years now your local energy utility has been offering rebates, in the form of money or bill credit, for upgrading you old or inefficient home appliances. This is nothing new. Programs such as this help sweeten the deal when trying to make the decision between just replacing that old water heater or boiler or whether you should go with the next better model that promises to save you money as time moves forward.<br />
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<i><b>Well, those rebates are getting less and less all the time</b></i>.<br />
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Take a look at this email attachment I received this morning. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19bFRv1XOtrQsosRImW2b6r05WMohoKNRUPPg5FgiK8SpF8HiDylCULYoQ8wLVKYnNVtWgmlFyYcnaDGM3avw-2SDXkqKriec4vOSpsRzBYhsATgMUZQRg8u7KIwOunZliFH_krzSHD0G/s1600/xcel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19bFRv1XOtrQsosRImW2b6r05WMohoKNRUPPg5FgiK8SpF8HiDylCULYoQ8wLVKYnNVtWgmlFyYcnaDGM3avw-2SDXkqKriec4vOSpsRzBYhsATgMUZQRg8u7KIwOunZliFH_krzSHD0G/s640/xcel.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
In the second paragraph it states the proposed incentive for replacing that inefficient tank type water heater with a new high efficient tankless model is going to be reduced by 75%. Yeah, you read that right. In an age where great emphasis and marketing has the been pushing us all toward saving energy this utility company had decided they would rather you consider something more consumptive. After all, they stand to make less if you're using less. <br />
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I know this the letter clearly states that these changes are just a proposal right now but there is little chance they will be redrafted to include more money for you.<br />
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Consider the present time as your best time to save money if you are in the market for a new water heater, boiler or furnace. There's usually no going back to higher rebates if history repeats itself; if they're offering the money now then now is the time to get it. <br />
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For a complete list of energy rebates and their providers you can click <a href="http://bit.ly/SECdP5" target="_blank">here.</a> Here you'll find a comprehensive list of local utility companies and all the programs they offer, residential and commercial. Programs ranging from water heating rebates to solar and geothermal. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-48692520146813010742012-08-18T13:31:00.002-07:002012-08-18T13:35:55.241-07:00Your Brother-in-law did what?During my daily visits to area homes I often encounter plumbing and heating systems that have been installed or under-maintained in a way that has rendered them dangerous. I'm not talking about a dirty furnace filter or a leaky pipe, no. What I'm referencing are situations where a qualified professional should have been hired to perform a job and [most likely] wasn't. Can you think of something in your basement that isn't quite right? Maybe you had your uncle Ted hook up that clothes dryer when you moved in because he offered his handy work...and it has never worked like the sales guy said it would? Maybe you or your significant other have taken on the task of installing a new fireplace when you finished the basement? Are you sure everything was installed according to the governing codes?<br />
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First and foremost, I only bring this topic up to address the concerns toward something being done in your home that may have the potential to harm you or your family. In no way am I discounting the ability of anyone who chooses to take on a home project; I am however trying to shed light on the fact that there are some things that should be left to a professional. If you're mechanical system [duct work or boiler] looks more like something that would be found in Dr. Frankenstein's laboratory after you and your neighbor decided to install a couple extra heat runs for that cold room in the basement, then it may not only be under performing it could also contain some safety concerns. I'll explain.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQEi0qDj2sLvygMl1OMHfrmpFWPRIvzdKQAG6vdt9fAk_aOKAo5F9PwKulshGQG1QEqRqLe6eCs0RHOt24BKB9Y2fotHSZQ8-ZipcQu-5sH-AFabS1Ai5A6VTKZxPy0dmYfDApjkCQ_Gr/s1600/dryyy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQEi0qDj2sLvygMl1OMHfrmpFWPRIvzdKQAG6vdt9fAk_aOKAo5F9PwKulshGQG1QEqRqLe6eCs0RHOt24BKB9Y2fotHSZQ8-ZipcQu-5sH-AFabS1Ai5A6VTKZxPy0dmYfDApjkCQ_Gr/s200/dryyy.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Often I find myself working in a basement where I will see improper materials used to vent a clothes dryer to the outside. Materials such as plastic venting strung halfway across a basement, making loops and turns a gymnast would be fond of.<br />
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Or, and let's hope you haven't got one of these: <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHlRT6mdSypK2tCcSlYIWRSyxpuFJgrta5jXhWXPMxurFrlttWdi4nif4Ok-nbk7U011ClAtokSJwsaSbDdTsdZCWpFORxswyBi7ns6RkjcFj9Ga08-zW5ba5VHNIQaCBCSrnnYdmEzpF/s1600/5im-vt0107-xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHlRT6mdSypK2tCcSlYIWRSyxpuFJgrta5jXhWXPMxurFrlttWdi4nif4Ok-nbk7U011ClAtokSJwsaSbDdTsdZCWpFORxswyBi7ns6RkjcFj9Ga08-zW5ba5VHNIQaCBCSrnnYdmEzpF/s200/5im-vt0107-xlg.jpg" width="200" /></a>The "Dryer Heat Saver" has been showcased in its various forms and under multiple names all over the internet and on television. It is not something you want in your laundry room, period. It's concept is simple; reclaim some of the heat exiting your dryer and use it to heat the room. An advertisement on the packaging says "It connects to your dryer vent hose and deflects heat from your dryer into the room rather than wasting it outside.". Let me interject my professional thoughts on this for a line or two. Start rant here: You aren't wasting anything by allowing your dryer exhaust to exit outside, properly, as your dryer manufacturer intended and our Mechanical Code insists upon for your safety. The very idea that this could be safe negated the understanding that the products of combustion [gas dryer] are not safe to inhale and could cause a fire or even death from carbon monoxide poisoning. End Rant. So, if you have one of these please remove it post haste. Your safety is more important than a couple cents of saving at the end of the month on your gas or electric bill.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWA6dJzcLobEqwQ697K2Mn6u7HpsewclYYvTmAhqsviO2imuY91aduO3AT9fI3FVX9mxMnkFvyv4Wj3CB6R-lR2w3BV-C47KmanQYDVSQSI7qjzIDLm7oqgzIC_BpiyRaeE3MMtEmQeAv/s1600/dryer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Back to the plastic dryer venting. This stuff for example:<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWA6dJzcLobEqwQ697K2Mn6u7HpsewclYYvTmAhqsviO2imuY91aduO3AT9fI3FVX9mxMnkFvyv4Wj3CB6R-lR2w3BV-C47KmanQYDVSQSI7qjzIDLm7oqgzIC_BpiyRaeE3MMtEmQeAv/s1600/dryer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWA6dJzcLobEqwQ697K2Mn6u7HpsewclYYvTmAhqsviO2imuY91aduO3AT9fI3FVX9mxMnkFvyv4Wj3CB6R-lR2w3BV-C47KmanQYDVSQSI7qjzIDLm7oqgzIC_BpiyRaeE3MMtEmQeAv/s200/dryer.jpg" width="190" /></a>The <a href="http://www.dli.mn.gov/ccld/PDF/SBC/1346.pdf" target="_blank">Minnesota State Mechanical Code </a>states in section 504 that all dryer venting materials be UL Listed and installed according to the manufacturer's installation guidelines. Plastic dryer ducting/vent tubes are not UL Listed and never will be. They are a fire hazard due to their material of construction and their propensity to "clog" up with lint. I find these all over throughout the metro are and beyond. If you have one of these, replace it. You can call a professional such as a plumber or an hvac technician.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAi-3wI6sPupUR3OOjogtHVUYEh_-PDUAJP5rE0xt1a0AkitC_3Zs0lPKh3M9eMliB8KbqRT8ybVfWCZtavfkWAV_vE2IND3i2j6f2f_Nt3EVMgBxBDOrD068gYnwQJAkUtHqEhqcbFF5/s1600/dryy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAi-3wI6sPupUR3OOjogtHVUYEh_-PDUAJP5rE0xt1a0AkitC_3Zs0lPKh3M9eMliB8KbqRT8ybVfWCZtavfkWAV_vE2IND3i2j6f2f_Nt3EVMgBxBDOrD068gYnwQJAkUtHqEhqcbFF5/s320/dryy.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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You might expect the replacement to be one of these listed products:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ES8qtIiapI9EkiwUJngrXTAENF962DD33Nlf6f2c5K54z_ECBYj2PFESEZ3LLRg0xrBS83rBzu11jg8tFb2RXAB5q1yOVMUHrNFXZZOLaiuIbBUGf2iuqaCWS1y13csGexCn4U2JTw7e/s1600/dry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ES8qtIiapI9EkiwUJngrXTAENF962DD33Nlf6f2c5K54z_ECBYj2PFESEZ3LLRg0xrBS83rBzu11jg8tFb2RXAB5q1yOVMUHrNFXZZOLaiuIbBUGf2iuqaCWS1y13csGexCn4U2JTw7e/s200/dry.jpg" width="161" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l1Xc9mIOFJNWQRMe86O8PPA-2PW9fysNnD-J2QcOoJEjarH0uC3tyqv_CMOJ1McleIorYGOY_4LFENkNQmj13iCD8-jmfzFyBR4JA_ZSPOWa7QQAxEh7yVeqNmBvGzDfFCfc0iXuzUar/s1600/dryy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l1Xc9mIOFJNWQRMe86O8PPA-2PW9fysNnD-J2QcOoJEjarH0uC3tyqv_CMOJ1McleIorYGOY_4LFENkNQmj13iCD8-jmfzFyBR4JA_ZSPOWa7QQAxEh7yVeqNmBvGzDfFCfc0iXuzUar/s200/dryy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Be sure to insist the replacement duct is a UL listed material and is not assembled using screws to hold it together; the screws catch lint and increase the potential of a fire. Oh, with a duct system installed properly and employing the rigid pipe pictured above your dry time will decrease significantly saving you time and money!<br />
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Another are of concern I encounter often, actually, is in the same room. Washing machine hoses, while may not present direct safety hazards, can cause you very big problems. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JjD1tGKHH_CcuyM-iECHhS5ZC0bxhGDFPOSiFRGA6Gki8dsbskufYcRvbrSp7HNmXLw3p2T-yqW0hPCUFc65Qh_HhX4iIyrZ2WG6k3wYul5j2ACZUU2s_uWdNG_zuv40VVTed8Z3d_AO/s1600/071409-hose-disaster-averted.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8JjD1tGKHH_CcuyM-iECHhS5ZC0bxhGDFPOSiFRGA6Gki8dsbskufYcRvbrSp7HNmXLw3p2T-yqW0hPCUFc65Qh_HhX4iIyrZ2WG6k3wYul5j2ACZUU2s_uWdNG_zuv40VVTed8Z3d_AO/s200/071409-hose-disaster-averted.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
I have seen the aftermath of a failed washing machine hose and let me tell you it's not pretty. Oh, and they rarely fail when your home and have your tools on the ready with a spare sitting near by. No, they often do it as the garage door shuts and you and the family are headed up to the cabin for the weekend. The picture to the left is what I would call a near miss, it was taken before the rubber hose burst. You can easily see the large bulge in the hose, I've seen hoses the size of a football. I highly recommend a trip down to your local hardware or big box for a set of stainless steel constructed hoses shown in the next picture. They'll run you about $20-30 but are worth their weight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsDUB7Ugi58YNvcjj9Ql7CuPsyX3nTplm7fHsxt_VtY96F5ijvg3A3pB5Vbk0rwl-jE5qVbPaNqA5HUcxx_KLGXwoEKc50UYCS91Wlq86vsztRpC-fhuxwWXBLjinMDbux2ebNtRI5wJr/s1600/hose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsDUB7Ugi58YNvcjj9Ql7CuPsyX3nTplm7fHsxt_VtY96F5ijvg3A3pB5Vbk0rwl-jE5qVbPaNqA5HUcxx_KLGXwoEKc50UYCS91Wlq86vsztRpC-fhuxwWXBLjinMDbux2ebNtRI5wJr/s1600/hose.jpg" /></a></div>
Next time I'll get a little more in-depth on the topic of hazards brought on by non-professionals performing work in your home. Until then, thanks for taking the time to read this and have a great day!<br />
<br />
<div style="color: orange;">
Eric Aune, </div>
<span style="color: orange;">Aune Plumbing, LLC </span><br />
<span style="color: orange;">eric@auneplumbing.com</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-15231837228580260932012-05-18T11:37:00.003-07:002012-05-18T11:38:36.193-07:00Efficiency needs to be conspicous to sellAnother from the archives, this was printed in <a href="http://www.phcnews.com/index.php" target="_blank">Phc News</a>, a trade magazine.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Efficiency needs to be conspicuous to sell.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">By
Eric Aune, Plumbing & Hydronic Heating Contractor</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Selling
efficiency can be one of the hardest tasks endeavored by contractors in today’s
economy. Explaining the benefit of
installing a ODR (outdoor reset) control on an existing cast iron boiler can be
daunting to say the least. First we as
the “expert” have to be aware of our language and terminology when explaining
how the device works, being careful not to lose our customer along the
way. I know when I see the “deer in the
headlights” look I have to reign it in a little. Most likely I have forgotten I am no longer
in the classroom, talking to my students, but rather the homeowner I am talking
to has not reached the same level of boiler-trekkie I boast about to the guys
at the will-call desk and everything I am saying has them questioning whether
or not it’s content is useful or even has any meaning to them.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Often
my first reaction to a question by a potential customer about upgrading their
heating or plumbing system would be to start by talking about saving
money. After all, isn’t that why they
are asking? The answer: It depends. I have been around this business and in and
out of these conversations to know the answer to that question is not as simple
as it seems. If I take from my reason
given to the homeowner as to why an ODR control would benefit them the
conversation about boiler system upgrades could easily go in the direction of
comfort. I have, on more than one
occasion, worked to find a solution for customers who would like to conserve
water in their home or business. Not
solely to cut operating cost in every situation but because that is what they
felt was a good thing to do for the environment.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Energy
plays a huge role in the overall market for selling efficiency. Not the only
role, but a large one at that. Energy
prices are rising continuously throughout the country but, the varied costs of
heating a home are relative to its geographical location. That’s to say here in Minnesota, where I
reside and operate my business, the heating season can average an astounding
seven months long. Compare that to the tepid climate inhabiting the better part
of the west coast where spring turns to summer much quicker and tends to stay
around a while longer. This comparison
would have most assume that it must be much more expensive to heat a home in
Minnesota than Washington State. The
variation in weather patterns, from Minnesota to the west coast, is not the
bottom line factor in the cost of heating homes. Utility costs play a major role here and that
may be why the success of high efficiency upgrades and an overall successful
push for hybrid heating systems has taken a stronger hold the closer you get to
the west coast.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">It
may be too simple of an explanation; saying higher energy costs account for
more upgrades but, there is and always will be the want to keep more of our
hard earned cash in hand. So what does
that mean for those of us in areas where energy costs are relatively low? One answer might be why our customers are
talking with us in the first place, your past customers.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Psychology
research suggests that people do good deeds as a strategy to attract
mates. Now I’m not suggesting we are
running a dating service here but, often times when our customers are happy
they will tell someone. With my own business I have drawn on the success of
past modular condensing boiler upgrades and used utility bill comparisons to
show potential customers the value in upgrading to high efficiency systems. The same can be done with the benefits of
installing a low water usage faucet or replacing old, worn-out water
distribution systems and installing PEX as a solution.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Selling
our customers on the real value of high efficiency systems and putting that
value out there for all to see can be a successful strategy. Displaying thank you notes or positive
customer comments in the office or on our website/blog is a great way to get
the word out. Be conspicuous. After all,
I think most will agree that it is great to receive a call from your customer’s
neighbor looking to have an estimate drawn up on a similar type job as the
Jones’.</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Comfort
and solutions will always be your best sellers in the high efficiency game.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Eric
Aune, Owner of Aune Plumbing, LLC. Zimmerman,
MN </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">eric@auneplumbing.com</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-3613775218623175972012-05-18T09:44:00.002-07:002012-05-18T09:45:33.475-07:00What is it supposed to look like?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Here is an article I wrote a while ago that ran in <a href="http://www.phcnews.com/index.php" target="_blank">Phc News</a>, a trade magazine. </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What is it supposed
to look like?</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
By Eric Aune,
Plumbing & Hydronic Heating Contractor </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I stood in the door way of a mechanical room for a
rather large home somewhere in the northern reaches of a Minneapolis suburb
with a look on my face that, I’m sure if the homeowner were there with me,
would likely downgrade any amount of credibility I may have had while promptly
returning his call for help. After all,
seeing such a menagerie of shiny copper piping assembled in such intricate
patterns going in every direction you to might be a little overwhelmed. Let’s get a little back story first…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Owning your own business has its perks, and depending how
much you like to get away on the weekend, one of them being you are on call all
the time. It was Saturday afternoon and
a great start to a wonderful July 4<sup>th</sup> weekend at the family
cabin. Everything was great, we had
already cleaned a fresh catch of walleye from the morning bite and the weather
forecast had promised to be superb.
This, of course, is about the time when the cell phone rang. On the other end of the [dreaded now, because
I definitely like spending time with the family at the cabin up north] line was
a customer from a past hydronic install with a problem…No domestic hot water
and an almost empty glycol static fill tank waiting to pump out the last bit of
fluid that remained. Luckily the
property of subject was only a quick 4 hour drive away and the wife completely understood
the situation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now if you’re paying attention you might have put two and
two together, and this is where I own-up to the fact that the mechanical room I
was standing in front of was one of mine.
The “menagerie” of piping, all put there with pride by my two hands all
the while with shoulders held high and a sense of mastery rivaled by only a
few. At least that was how I felt back
then. Now? Well, the look on my face
would have likely told a story all too familiar to many of you. As I stood there, with jaw gaping and eyes
peeled, I thought to myself “Why does everything look so complicated?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hydronic heating systems in general are intimidating to look
at. Now I’m not saying when you, the
professional, enter a mechanical room that you are intimidated but, put
yourself in the shoes of the end user.
The immensely intelligent Robert
Bean [healthyheating.com], says it nicely when said like this: “One of the
things people like about a forced air system is that they have a comfort level
with what it looks like --- a furnace looks like a furnace, a condenser looks
like a condenser...they're in an enclosure so the homeowner doesn't have to
look at any of the inner working -- it looks like an appliance.” Does your latest hydronic creation look like
an appliance? The one I stood in front of today could be called an appliance,
yeah if NASA had built it, and even then it would probably still have been
tucked away in a remote room somewhere only to be accessed by the guy who
designed it…because who else would know what the heck was going on?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
Currently there are no parts of a hydronic
heating system that can’t be purchased in some preassembled configuration. Aside from the final gas, electric or venting
connections you could design/build your
system right out of a box. As recent as
this spring we have witnessed the national unveiling of a complete boiler
[electric] system, all piped and ready to go from a major manufacturer. So why do we insist, as tradesman/women, that
everything be assembled piece by piece? John Barba of Taco has a great
explanation in a recent blog post (<a href="http://jbblog.flopro.taco-hvac.com/">http://jbblog.flopro.taco-hvac.com/</a>
) why the math doesn’t work when you try to justify your operating costs and
time available when you choose to do it yourself instead of buying it
preassembled. My argument follows the
tail end of his, “Why does it have to be so customized? Why do we make
everything so complicated? Shouldn’t we be moving toward uniformity? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
Do you buy and install
preassembled components? Why do you do it? Why not? When will we see the day
when uniformity, as a system, is the norm? I know my latest service call had me
wishing for it, will your next call have you thinking the same?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
Eric Aune, Owner</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
Aune Plumbing, LLC</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 12.0pt;">
Zimmerman, MN </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-89486504142780601212012-05-15T08:41:00.004-07:002012-05-15T08:41:59.117-07:00Invisible water. Wait, what?<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
Its easy to disconnect ourselves, Living here in the United States, from the global water crisis. Having an abundant water supply at our disposal for really any use has many blind to the fact that our water consumption is not only measured by what comes out of our tap in our home or from the water cooler at the office. The same clean water we drink is processed and used for many purposes. Washing cars, clothes, watering our lawns and filling the backyard swimming pool is all done with clean, processed water that we pay relatively little to receive. We do this on a whim, without the thought process many throughout the world go through when considering how much water they can use in a single day without running out.</div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
The average U.S. resident will use 151 gallons of clean water per day. Compare this with the average water use in most African countries: less than 15 gallons per day. Those numbers point out a disparaging difference in what must be our views of conservation. Sure certain countries have less clean water available, but most are more conscious of their consumption in order to prolong the availability.</div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
The majority of Americans do not even realize that their daily water use [drinking, cleaning & washing] is only a small part of the water they use each day. Most of the water we use is invisible to us. Its in the food we eat, the pop and soft drinks we drink and in the clothes we wear. Water is used in the generating of electricity we use to power the computer used to read this message right now. Even the gasoline and diesel we burn in our cars and trucks has been produced with the help of water. This way of consuming water is invisible to most because it is not seen directly with our own eyes. The water I use could be from as far away as Australia, South America or China. Sources as close to my home state of Minnesota such as Wisconsin or California provide me with the benefit of water everyday and I never see it, nor do most.</div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
But there isn't an
easy way to see the connection between my consumption and the water
problems that have been hitting headlines. One way to make that connection in your own life is to monitor your water consumption daily for a week. Its easy and you'll probably learn a thing or two on how you could live as well with less. </div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
Take five minutes each day and write down events such as showers, baths or clothes/dishes washing. If you look closely each of your faucets will tell you how much water is coming out of them when in use. Check the round thing on the spout of the faucet, its called an aerator. It'll likely say something like 1.6 gpm. This means that for every minute the faucet is running it is spouting out 1.6 gallons per minute (gpm). The toilet, where an amazing amount is used each day, says it on the bowl portion near the hinge of the seat. Thankfully the majority of toilets only use 1.6 gpf (gallons per flush) whereas older toilets could consume as much as 3-6 gpf! Oh, if you have one of those...get it changed asap!</div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
After a few days of writing this info down you can get a pretty good idea of how much water you are using on average. Take the total gallons you estimated and add them all together, then divide that total by how many days you recorded this info to get the average used per day. The number will surprise you, be sure of this. Consider taking this test on days when you are doing laundry and when everyone in the home is, in fact, home as usual. </div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
<br /></div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
I've been performing this service I have described here [called water auditing] for a couple of years now. The numbers don't lie and they have begun to amaze me less and less. We are all conditioned to think that water is and always will be here and available. That may not be true, most likely isn't.</div>
<div id="paragraph5" name="paragraph5">
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If you would like information on what you can do to change the amount of water you use please give me a call or email. There are dozens of easy to do, often on your own if you're even the least bit handy, that are inexpensive and will have you feeling better everyday about your simple efforts and how it will make a positive impact on our precious resource. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-89549326620613331192011-12-08T07:45:00.001-08:002011-12-08T08:38:02.842-08:00How many showers will Aunt Edna take?!With the holiday season fast approaching, or if your family is anything like mine...a steady stream of weekend get together s starting on or around Thanksgiving day, you may be planning for some extra inhabitants at your home soon. If you have ever had a house full of guests stay an extended period of time at your place you may have had to be creative with your own personal grooming habits and time(s).<br />
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Often the biggest headache in your home when housing additional bodies is the increased downtime waiting for the water heater to catch up when everyone decides they stink just enough and need to freshen up. Most home's water heaters are not equipped to handle much more than the daily load put upon them. Add age and increased use and you have a holiday recipe for shrieks aplenty as you or your guest are suddenly finding themselves jumping frantically from unpleasant cold water in the shower. This, of course, can be avoided or even eliminated altogether with some planning and minor upgrades to your current shower hardware.<br />
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Long showers or increased amounts of trips through the bath due to guests in the home will drain your standard tank type heater in short order. Most [standard] shower heads (the part where the water is spraying out, not the control valve in the wall) allow around 2.5 gallons per minute of water through them. Some allow as much as 3-3.5 gallons per minute, that's a lot of hot water! New, high efficiency shower heads are engineered to use operate south of the 2 gallon per minute rate; presenting a 20% water savings that can significantly extend the number of showers you might be able to fit in to your daily routine.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_luYex0cqwkAYSrc-JiWJnX18Cs7ieKnAjF9ds1KR4ayzh_KpDlyvqwgmSLxfFFwQGDjEdZaLSCyhyXUIHHcyf8xIaQNUVdQdbeUhBZhSqMMaxDq7eSRu7h5v6Qmi4DFrryF2PQ28cdyn/s1600/aab12592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_luYex0cqwkAYSrc-JiWJnX18Cs7ieKnAjF9ds1KR4ayzh_KpDlyvqwgmSLxfFFwQGDjEdZaLSCyhyXUIHHcyf8xIaQNUVdQdbeUhBZhSqMMaxDq7eSRu7h5v6Qmi4DFrryF2PQ28cdyn/s320/aab12592.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTvApt8hr2d_KKMCjrgkTv5HmFW1U_pRv4T5dRCLyqLY3TV7q-2mBvINEzsAUToRUHQOCHt37TWR52TOgtoVQoziYKdo83Vj_iSwSAhBtvY81Q36ZLAIr3C47LTp2w8nlG2r9m-m2O7RD/s1600/water+he.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTvApt8hr2d_KKMCjrgkTv5HmFW1U_pRv4T5dRCLyqLY3TV7q-2mBvINEzsAUToRUHQOCHt37TWR52TOgtoVQoziYKdo83Vj_iSwSAhBtvY81Q36ZLAIr3C47LTp2w8nlG2r9m-m2O7RD/s200/water+he.jpg" width="174" /></a>Changing shower heads is rather simple. All local big box, and most local hardware stores have an excellent variety to choose from. Many of these new shower heads offer a great showering experience yet use a fractional amount of water when compared to what you may be using now. Sizing for shower heads are standard, making for a shot list of tools and materials required. If you're not the do-it-yourself type, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://auneplumbing.com/%22%3E%3C/a%3E" target="_blank"> Aune Plumbing</a> can help you get on track to a less stressful time spent with family.<br />
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This may also be a great time to consider the age and performance of your existing water heater. As I have written <a href="http://auneplumbing.blogspot.com/2010/07/yes-i-need-new-water-heater-but-what.html" target="_blank">here</a> in the past, there are many options that may be a better fit for you and your family's lifestyle. Check out all the information I have posted about water heaters, the different types and what may work best for you. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment to assess your current situation please <a href="mailto:eric@auneplumbing.com" target="_blank">email</a> or call 763-238-2385. <br />
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The bottom line is this, staggering tasks such as washing dishes and clothes from taking showers when house guests are staying with you during the holidays will up your chances at keeping sane. Upgrading your shower heads will make a big impact that will benefit you even after your big hairy brother leaves town through water savings and lower fuel consumption annually. Have a happy holiday season!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-51077074749497790992011-09-20T11:35:00.000-07:002011-09-20T11:35:49.244-07:00You can tell a lot about your contractor if..."The cobbler's kids have no shoes"<br />
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I bet if you asked the people in your life that you rely on for various services about the above statement they, like me, would probably reply with a smirk and say that statement applies to them more often than not. Go ahead, next time you have your car in for a new set of tires ask your mechanic what shape his tires are in. If he's quick he would reply with the nonsensical: "Round, of course." If he is truthful you might find out that you are not the only one in need of new treads, this is a common theme for many service providers. My friend, the dreaded accountant (I mean no ill will, ma'am) is the last to get her taxes filed. This is the case because she is making sure all her clients are taken care of, just last year she told me she filed for an extension for herself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHigOXah2pRAhL1w8jeMvR-YtR34osoS-VUnQ0ff6vCkvo3vxupFY9C54R5-YH_EmkrRIkepB8Dzy0bxl_CJJwbE-28S8ShDhAVP3LjhUcHRu7ZMfj4hv-RvZ65baCXCRQB7ODx3wPWwj0/s1600/to+do+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHigOXah2pRAhL1w8jeMvR-YtR34osoS-VUnQ0ff6vCkvo3vxupFY9C54R5-YH_EmkrRIkepB8Dzy0bxl_CJJwbE-28S8ShDhAVP3LjhUcHRu7ZMfj4hv-RvZ65baCXCRQB7ODx3wPWwj0/s320/to+do+2.jpg" width="223" /></a>So what does this say about these individuals? Are they disorganized, unable to finish simple tasks? Or are they simply trying to make a living in their craft, citing their chief responsibility to take care of their customers? I prefer the latter. After all, I have so many projects around my own house waiting to be finished or even started(!). Here's a list I have been working on for....er...quite some time:<br />
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Pay no attention to the date listed on the top....The funniest thing I find with this list is that it only has four main items on it. Believe me when I say there are many more, most notable that hasn't made it to any list (that I know of) is to clean the garage. My guess here is that the need to clean the garage is a constant, a need that will never be satisfied, as if life in general has a constant thirst for a clean garage...<br />
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Everyone has a list of things they would like to accomplish, some short but others longer. My point being, and in reference to the title of this post, you can tell a lot about someone if you take a minute to consider the outlying details. The story of my tax filing friend, not much unlike myself. For example: I tend to worry more about my customers energy saving needs than my own almost to a fault, after-all, I probably could have saved enough energy to do the job three times if I had just finished insulating the rest of my mechanical room piping alone. Oh, and don't get me started on the rainwater reclamation, that's a whole other story in and of itself.<br />
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Bottom line is this: my kids have shoes (think plumbing), they might have an easier time finding their stuff in the garage if it were a little tidier but none of my customers are without. I will always keep my customers needs close to my heart. Now, lets see what I can do about item number one....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-55499145650754585872011-05-31T14:40:00.000-07:002011-05-31T14:40:08.465-07:00Continuing with Ed. What about the tradesman?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZzhuP3A0fQSjESlv_qmmrc7rlmcK4W7Udv5epUu9phKj2ki9OY5gCYiPCDckSyZbQeVQRB7iv7AUK5F9kobfWCayLuw1yJySHbedIkHJg2foPw864ks072Jfgcs1K6ruPudl440YP_L-/s1600/desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZzhuP3A0fQSjESlv_qmmrc7rlmcK4W7Udv5epUu9phKj2ki9OY5gCYiPCDckSyZbQeVQRB7iv7AUK5F9kobfWCayLuw1yJySHbedIkHJg2foPw864ks072Jfgcs1K6ruPudl440YP_L-/s200/desk.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>Everywhere you look, it seems, we are bombarded with advertisements showcasing various two year courses geared toward either training us for a new career or gaining a leg up on others along our existing path. Maybe I have the tendency to notice these advertisements a little more, after all I have been in school for nearly most of my life. My guess is I am not the exception, however, more of the rule these days as many more professionals are going back or have never really left school in search of something more. What about plumbers? <br />
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We live in a country that is geared specifically, with very few exceptions, toward readying us for the next level. When you enter grade school you are milled into the machine that will, through repetition, have you ready to move onto middle school in just a few short years. As history repeats itself, this continues through high school and then onto college. Some choose a different path along the way. I did but not after realizing that the University of Minnesota Engineering school just wasn't for me. That path, trade school. I still remember thinking how much more simple it seemed that I would go to work, doing something I enjoyed, and then go to school a couple nights a week all the while getting paid at the end of the week. Well I am still there, on the other side of the desk part of the time but, if you ask my kids where I am most nights you are likely to get one of three answers....work (because I own my own business and when the phone rings...), fishing or school. <br />
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Naturally I prefer the fishing answer the most but the reality is, more often than not, I am either teaching a subject or devouring as much as I can about a subject somewhere either close to home or even half way across the country.<br />
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After finishing trade school locally I then continued on in the industry as a worker bee, only to realize I needed to prepare myself for the next level. Sound familiar? Add to this the invitation to teach for Mpls Local 15 about five or six years ago and, ten years later and a few dozen classes completed, I find myself holding course completion certificates and syllabi amassed with great fervor along the way. I would have to say that teaching trade school classes to apprentices and journeyman plumbers has lent as much opportunity to learn, for myself, as I could possibly hope to return to my students. I enjoy it immensely, and will continue to do it as long as they will have me. After all, I too learn so much each night spent in class. <br />
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I keep a quote I printed out and taped to the wall near my home office computer, I don't know exactly who said it but it rings true for so many of us, me in particular. I reads "If you don't like change, you're going to like irrelevance even less". <br />
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Change for me comes in the form of learning. New skills, new tools or methods. We all have the need for change. The plumbing and heating industry is no different than many others; if your going to offer the very best to your customers you have to stay on top of your game. My game, for so many years it seems, is held in the classroom. After all, if your not learning something new your just wasting your time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-26876486129779787202011-04-22T11:39:00.000-07:002011-04-22T11:39:57.626-07:00Value service agreements, Home Service Plxx, Annual Inspection...Which one is for me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSe7p5bMnGIUeCLkPWfH2zNpap8C306YXrqmnKIKqD1S1UikunwR8334ATU0xXxQQ4ruU0R1uOPblHJhpioZeU_dF33EFt8kryYHgpMuNZFTK9nucYyCWkRKQnKb_V1MezVd0jS02AHkZa/s1600/openingaccesspanel_380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSe7p5bMnGIUeCLkPWfH2zNpap8C306YXrqmnKIKqD1S1UikunwR8334ATU0xXxQQ4ruU0R1uOPblHJhpioZeU_dF33EFt8kryYHgpMuNZFTK9nucYyCWkRKQnKb_V1MezVd0jS02AHkZa/s320/openingaccesspanel_380.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Depending on where you live or who you may have invited into your home, there is a good chance you have been offered some type of service geared toward either maintaining your mechanical appliances or repairing them when problems arise.<br />
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There are companies, both local and national, that will offer programs for major repairs to a fixed group of appliances in your home in exchange for a monthly fee. The fee is usually based on how many and what type of appliances are covered under your selected service.<br />
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These "programs" can be useful for most people not inclined to getting down and dirty with their washing machine on a Saturday morning because a belt is broken and when you wanted to wash your favorite shirt you instead installed a new swimming pool in the basement. ~Don't ask....<br />
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In this contractors opinion, these monthly service agreements are valuable but only when a<br />
[cost vs. benefit] analysis has been considered under simple scrutiny. Consider this: The home you live in is less than ten years old, all appliances were installed new at construction and no major problems have arisen to date. Would you benefit by paying a monthly service fee, some can add up to as much as $40-$75 per month? Keep in mind you will be paying this monthly premium every month, problem or not. Think of it as insurance for your major appliances, with a repair company ready and willing to come out and fix the problem. <br />
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My guess is that many homeowners would consider this service to be useful, especially those of us in older homes with not so new appliances. I caution my customers to read the fine print, however, and do not assume anything. For instance, when your 25 year old furnace/boiler breaks down and the cause of the problem is not a simple replaceable component you may be left footing the bill for not only the repair parts but also the labor for the service tech. And in no circumstance should you consider this a insurance plan geared for replacement should the need to install a new refrigerator or washing machine arise due to complete failure. The service is only good for repairs of equipment that is otherwise in good working order.<br />
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<u><b><span style="color: orange;">So what is the alternative?</span> </b></u><br />
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The alternative to a monthly bill and "insurance" program is simple really. <b>Annual maintenance</b>. All of us have been told one time or another "Have your heating/air system checked by a certified technician to make sure it is operating properly", maybe you are one of the savvy homeowners who have actually taken the time to read the appliance manual for this suggestion.....if so, you-da-man!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaXxP2xSmY39Xs-jh1QU-EW7D6K5sHdLES3zOlgrHXzQauTKzLBmidpdDuX-cwvlskbzrYjqimmTC4L8pg8x8ALIn1dMHn8rL5fE6oZUipgVW9JERD0r1Q_mpF2cev6yash0ySOv-iNa9/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaXxP2xSmY39Xs-jh1QU-EW7D6K5sHdLES3zOlgrHXzQauTKzLBmidpdDuX-cwvlskbzrYjqimmTC4L8pg8x8ALIn1dMHn8rL5fE6oZUipgVW9JERD0r1Q_mpF2cev6yash0ySOv-iNa9/s200/index.jpg" width="200" /></a> Having your heating and air conditioning system, water heater or washer/dryer inspected annually in my opinion is the best insurance policy against unforeseen problems. The great thing about this type of "program" is the offering of these services for a one-time fee. Should a problem be detected upon inspection you are likely to be charged for the repair but, honest pricing and contractors to go along with it should have you up and running again at a low cost when compared to adding up all those months of paying for a service and then only using it to replace a very minor part.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5x7gycQj64oJfj0NS53AqGNbv59XHTscfa4P050b9BQBnxZoDEney3JY16TpGmEUzmR0xFb_tGkQeRZK6VBBtsW3P7ga-YUTrBs01YGUot5akhMmuJ1RRFzUip7vprd-p8mOhcsXidxm/s1600/imagesmmm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5x7gycQj64oJfj0NS53AqGNbv59XHTscfa4P050b9BQBnxZoDEney3JY16TpGmEUzmR0xFb_tGkQeRZK6VBBtsW3P7ga-YUTrBs01YGUot5akhMmuJ1RRFzUip7vprd-p8mOhcsXidxm/s200/imagesmmm.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>As my friend Mr. Barba says "Do the math". If I pay $40 a month under the assumption my repairs are covered (for this example lets say they are actually, covered) for the next six months and find myself without heat, making a call for service. Maybe the problem is a simple repair, after all our example here tells us the repair is covered, and the cost would have only been around $200 total (maybe something like a standard gas valve replacement) <br />
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<b><i>Service plan scenario</i>:</b> $40.00 x 6 (months) = $240 total out of pocket <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><i><b>Simple service call scenario:</b></i> $85 service call fee + $115 (gas valve) = $200 total out of pocket<br />
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Remember, this is only a hypothetical situation but the completely perceivable nonetheless. The math does not add up, in at least this example and many cases the problem would have been addressed during the annual inspection. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80CLZa_2nZXnHGKs76h3AWGyu5zGDD5fu5RgbOidZfK49ivVtjw9q6Oeph_QK-WPfsq0hwTeZPxxDRnlpRvAveVpLEwXU1PRlnM_TyrJ-l_8XX2DQdza9EJ-XCfC6rjCDG2VtMqwvBlBs/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80CLZa_2nZXnHGKs76h3AWGyu5zGDD5fu5RgbOidZfK49ivVtjw9q6Oeph_QK-WPfsq0hwTeZPxxDRnlpRvAveVpLEwXU1PRlnM_TyrJ-l_8XX2DQdza9EJ-XCfC6rjCDG2VtMqwvBlBs/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Either situation presents a means to have your problems taken care of. The "program" will insure you have a company you are somewhat familiar with at your service come out to take a look at and [hopefully] repair the problem with no extra charge to you. The annual service will address the potential of problems and insure your system is performing properly now, with the option to service any problems should they arise in the future. I can't make the decision for my customers but, in my experience the annual service offers the best value.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-36282361656995322452011-03-16T09:04:00.000-07:002011-03-16T09:04:17.352-07:00That annoying drip...We're smack dab in the middle of "<a href="http://www.epa.gov/watersense/pubs/fixleak.html">National Fix a Leak Week</a>" and already on pace to waste 1 trillion gallons of fresh water by years end. Have you done anything in your home to check for leaks?<br />
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The amount of water leaked from U.S. homes could exceed more than 1 trillion gallons per year. That's equivalent to the annual water use of Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami combined. Wow! Does that mean every home has a leak? Well, if you believe the statistics, the answer is likely yes but we can all do our part in fixing the problem.<br />
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Most water leaks in the home go undetected, a leaking toilet flapper or an irrigation line buried out in the yard generally pass under our radar because they usually do not show up as a wet spot on the floor/ceiling. Click the link above for a whole list of useful tips on where and how to check for leaks in your home and remember I am always eager to help should you need assistance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWC-rRHsOt3WdzvMb-3DSGxF6lZB4W_uIxRzzxdltK9koebefeI33TkG19yx1ZrEHrsUArPhz3lgPMMlYnetx940l8_YCGRhH-UU2kNFcv2ujNB_nbKflVT9OKqOE4Ana5wfoJwIka54i/s1600/leaky-faucet-arison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWC-rRHsOt3WdzvMb-3DSGxF6lZB4W_uIxRzzxdltK9koebefeI33TkG19yx1ZrEHrsUArPhz3lgPMMlYnetx940l8_YCGRhH-UU2kNFcv2ujNB_nbKflVT9OKqOE4Ana5wfoJwIka54i/s320/leaky-faucet-arison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-43779058577450939982011-02-28T14:30:00.000-08:002011-02-28T14:30:46.064-08:00Greater control, savings and ultimate comfort!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V5O7V2HPa2QUTomjubO-X6qgtjshxhM5vBBwSkFPROGJ5NF1tJqjIkqQ9MS7IjwQHXlLL1GGVx68BzO0vIvDlg7hPXs2-liZGR5A80J7mRdZTBNyy0b7D6FrQVgehb1L7_7_kVDWhskk/s1600/ecobee+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V5O7V2HPa2QUTomjubO-X6qgtjshxhM5vBBwSkFPROGJ5NF1tJqjIkqQ9MS7IjwQHXlLL1GGVx68BzO0vIvDlg7hPXs2-liZGR5A80J7mRdZTBNyy0b7D6FrQVgehb1L7_7_kVDWhskk/s1600/ecobee+logo.jpg" /></a>As a followup to my last post addressing programmable thermostats and our tendencies as homeowners to be selecting all the wrong [but with good intentions] settings, I am excited to show a new product that has promise to save you energy, increase home comfort and maybe even add some fun to your day to day. "<u>Intelligent conservation solutions for real people</u>"....That's the headline in one marketing piece for the latest in smart thermostats built with the homeowner in mind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Presenting: <a href="http://www.ecobee.com/wp-content/themes/ecobee/etc/brochureSMconsumer-web.pdf">ecobee</a>. The ecobee is a WiFi connected smart thermostat designed to save you money in utility costs and reduce your environmental impact. Its capabilities are enormous, with the capability to monitor and report heating/cooling systems status' such as the amount of time your furnace/boiler or air conditioner run in a day to the usefulness of having your own web portal to change the settings while away. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have a vacation property? Multiple homes? Busy lifestyle (who doesn't)? The ecobee brings us the ability to control when and for how long our heating/cooling systems run. This is extremely beneficial for those of us who are heading to the cabin for the weekend, either from a computer or from an iPhone & Droid app we can now turn up the heat on the way up north rather than bear the frigid temps waiting for the place to heat when we get there. And talk about savings!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Regular programmable thermostats are "locked" in to the program we set for them. I can't speak for everyone but, my families schedule hardly meets the actual definition of a schedule, we are going every which way but loose most days. With the instant connectivity to my Droid phone via an app I can easily change the temperature settings with the swipe of my finger, after all we planned on being home for dinner but those plans go out the window sometimes....I don't need the heat to kick back up for a few hours, not today....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This may seem contradictory to my last post, it isn't though. The ecobee has a monitoring and reporting function that allows me to see how my system is performing, showing me information that can help me save energy by not having too deep of a set-back. With cool features like a 5-day weather forecast of my local area I can even decide to adjust my heating cooling settings in anticipation of upcoming weather patterns....now that's kinda geeky but it makes sense!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's safety built in! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Wouldn't it be nice to know if there is a problem at home before you get there, during normal business hours when you can get someone for service? The ecobee has the ability to send an alert if your system is malfunctioning. An alert can be sent because the home's temperature is too low, indicating the furnace is out or the a water sensor can be installed in the basement to alert you if there is a leak or the sump pump stopped working. Does your big box store t-stat do that?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This interactive way of home comfort is a 180 degree turn away from a traditional programmable thermostat, and with great results.....SAVINGS! I would love the opportunity to show you how it works, how it may fit into your lifestyle and the benefits it is sure to bring to your bottom line. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-22801359302468385422011-02-08T08:12:00.000-08:002011-02-10T11:39:48.852-08:00That box on the wall....quit messing with it.As part of an unofficial survey, I need your help on an issue I know is near and dear to your heart. Okay, that near and dear part might be a stretch but hear me out.<br />
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For a couple decades now local utility providers [gas, electric, oil companies] have been sitting on the fence, writhing in pain that you may heed the advice blowing your way about conserving energy. There's no doubt your utility company would rather you didn't bother your busy life with worries of saving energy in your home, after all, for about a century they have been getting fatter and fatter off our inefficient homes and heating systems. Somewhere along the way those very same companies trying to coddle you into 72*F bliss have figured out that their positive involvement may cast a better light; oh and by the way, huge incentives coming from the federal government might have helped too. Enter the "Programmable Thermostat"! See, when its capitalized it gives this overwhelming feeling of dominance, power of control, absolute choice and the ability to save 'big' money! At least that's what every home center big box store wants you to think, and as of late <u>even</u> <u>your utility company is touting the benefits to lowering your overall comfort level in the home to pave way for savings. </u><br />
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I'll try not to get too technical, I like to keep it light so stay with me.<br />
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If your home heating system consists of a ductwork system branching off a scorched (forced, sorry) air furnace it is likely you have a programmable thermostat as a means to control the temperature settings in the home. Ah yes, it is used to control the temperature settings but what for? Why would we have a need to raise or lower the temperature in our home? My bet is money. Yep, I'd say the number one reason a homeowner would go to the trouble and expense of installing [or have installed] a programmable thermostat is the opportunity to keep more of the green on hand and not in the hand of our utility company. Savings in the name of lost comfort. That's what we are really doing, saving what will only really add up to $5-$15 a month all the while convincing ourselves that "our family likes it cooler" or "it doesn't need to be that warm when we are all covered with a foot of blankets at night".<br />
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Let's switch gears for a minute, let me talk a little about the technical side to my argument and why it you may not be saving as much as you think.<br />
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If you are setting your thermostat back at night or during the day when you are at work, how deep are you going? 2-3 degrees? 5-10 degrees? 10+ degrees? When the schedule changes and its time to come back up to your regular temperature settings does your furnace/boiler run for a short period of time and satisfy the thermostat or is it running constantly until the next set back period? For every 3 degrees lower, you "can" save up to 1% on fuel usage. This being a perfect world, those numbers work if the temperature stays relatively stable during the set-back period. This is not a perfect world, and here's a few more reasons why....<br />
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If your thermostat is set to drop the room temperature down 10 degrees while you are work and the room temperature actually does drop that amount in the scheduled time period of the set-back, there's a few things that might need addressed. First of all, what is really happening is the MRT or mean room temperature is lowering because the furnace has not been told to turn on until that magic number [10 degrees lower than normal] is realized. In that time, lets say its for 8 hours, if the temperature does drop ten degrees without an Alberta clipper setting in on the region, your home may not be as well insulated or sealed as it should be. Be that as it may, you now need to bring that temperature all the way back up for your scheduled arrival; all the while negating any real savings you could have had in the form of a furnace running for extended periods of time at full out capacity. A possible adjustment in this scenario might be to cut the set-back to five degrees instead and if there are some south facing windows maybe open some window treatments to let some sun in. This could actually elevate the comfort level by warming the surfaces in your home, kinda like a radiant heating system I have heard so much about....<br />
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Remember, just because you have the ability to set that temperature down so low doesn't mean you should. Recovery form deep set-backs can and often do consume as much energy as was hoped to have been saved, making it more of a question of your comfort level and at what cost(?).<br />
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You know, Ron Popeil should have marketed a thermostat....."Just set it and forget it!"<br />
Until next time, thanks!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-29965722544999594532011-01-26T13:59:00.000-08:002011-02-07T09:58:49.812-08:00Great savings in writing!Just under a year ago I had the opportunity to provide service for a customer in the Eden Prairie area of the Twin Cites. The customer had motivation to replace his old hot water boiler through a low interest loan program offered to Minnesota residents, at the time, who were candidates for major appliance upgrades that would improve efficiency and lower utility costs.<br />
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As with any other potential client, I approached this project with high intention of finding the best possible boiler and components to fulfill the requirements of this particular home and the owners needs. The approach is simple really, although some contractors do not take the time but I do and the following is proof of how big an impact this approach can make. <br />
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Boiler replacements, the same goes for furnaces and air conditioners, are only truly successful if the installing contractor does a little homework before the physical work starts. It all starts with a tape measure and some questions. How many square feet is the home? How well is the home insulated, and how many and what size are the windows and doors? In this particular home, how many feet of copper fin-tube baseboard is there? The only real amount of work needed to get the answers to these questions is actually walking through the home and physically measuring and recording the information. This information, when all gathered, is then used to figure the proper size rating of the boiler needed to adequately heat the home while using the least amount of energy. Simple right? For the average homeowner this may be a daunting task, for a contractor with his/her customer's best interest on the table this should be a standard service.<br />
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Stay with me for a few more lines....<br />
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<div style="text-align: right;"></div>Following up with my customers after the project is done has always been a habit, after all if there are any quirks or questions that need to be addressed I want them to know I am available. In this particular case I was contacted by the Eden Prairie homeowner with some very pleasing information. Pleasing for him especially because it was proof in writing, from his natural gas provider, that he and his family were now using 28% less natural gas this year as compared to the same time last year! That's a huge savings directly related to the replacement of their [then over-sized] boiler with a properly sized, energy star rated unit that also does the work of heating their domestic hot water; replacing a standard water heater with an efficiency rating of approximately 65%. Take a look at the "report card" sent to them from their gas company, the proof is in writing, and that is why the simple homework is so worth it! Oh, and the smiley face is the cherry on top...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pqWe0Fzb2gnpKi3r4I5ZY5r3G20vblmIW0nsf5pYTui1xQQDJMp4TpkacCSvrnWlMccJEnRLO3UUTJ9h1YamOm0wNslqP07GfLx8qCKeTvLAQPzQNE3A6ZIgb2cl9qnvV0jhMF2jrNnw/s1600/BANGAS%257E4+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9pqWe0Fzb2gnpKi3r4I5ZY5r3G20vblmIW0nsf5pYTui1xQQDJMp4TpkacCSvrnWlMccJEnRLO3UUTJ9h1YamOm0wNslqP07GfLx8qCKeTvLAQPzQNE3A6ZIgb2cl9qnvV0jhMF2jrNnw/s1600/BANGAS%257E4+copy.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-21742755032309815592010-12-29T10:06:00.000-08:002011-01-10T05:14:56.359-08:00Auto Start for your home?<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUP-0wkqeOAFQTznJzlOIKJihFFZAGP6uV75saezgTkSSBYPxa2VBuSdXCUSGlNHaDQkBgBOdOARlYGnlmAAQUw6KR4u5GUf6Y0OS3RssMiQwi_oJXAUAyTaHX7oiZ-DCzhuMo6gczQG8G/s1600/372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUP-0wkqeOAFQTznJzlOIKJihFFZAGP6uV75saezgTkSSBYPxa2VBuSdXCUSGlNHaDQkBgBOdOARlYGnlmAAQUw6KR4u5GUf6Y0OS3RssMiQwi_oJXAUAyTaHX7oiZ-DCzhuMo6gczQG8G/s200/372.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>A few years back I surprised the lovely Heather with a Christmas gift, a remote car starter for her vehicle. Whether it was an actual surprise I tend to doubt as she likely saw the purchase pass through our check card statement, nonetheless, she loved/loves it. I know this has nothing to do with plumbing or heating but maybe, just maybe I can complete the link.<br />
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Let's go back few more years, eight to be exact. The lovely Heather and I, with our now oldest and another on the way decided to build a new home. With a little blood, sweat and tears our grandeur plans of a new homestead became a reality. We went all out, as far as our budget would allow for at least. Some of the "extras" we "just had to have" seem a little silly now. There are also some things I remember wanting to do (but didn't) that, when looking back, make me laugh out loud. Who really needs a waterfall in their living room?<br />
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Now remember I said some things seem silly, not all. You see, being a plumber and installing all the plumbing and hydronic heating in my home, there was one thing I just had to have; was going to do and couldn't live without. A hot water recirculating line.<br />
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Whats that? Well, its simple really. During the install of the water supply piping to all the fixtures in the house I chose to pipe a small (hot) water line from the farthest bathroom back to the water heater. This water line is connected to a small circulator, or pump that senses the temperature of the water and keeps it hot during certain times of the day. The connection is coming, please be patient.<br />
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What I didn't really know at the time seems pretty amazing to me now. This simple addition, or gotta have has saved me an estimated average of about 5,000 gallons of water each year! Wow! Saving water is not the only thing this plumbing marvel does, no because it also saves all the energy it takes to "re"-heat the water in the piping that was once heated but sat idle in the piping until someone turned a hot faucet on. All that water, all that energy and all it really took was some simple piping and the hatred of waiting for hot water in this big two-story home of ours.<br />
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So, much like Heathers truck being warm and ready to go with the push of a button you can come to our house and not have to wait for your hot water. After all, the faucet handle has an H on it suggesting that the water may actually be hot when you rotate the handle. I'm pretty sure it shouldn't mean "you'll have to wait a few minutes so you can wash your hands properly".<br />
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All is not lost to this magnificent plumbing feat if you are not inline to build a new house. We now have products available for existing homes, products that will give you the same satisfaction and savings. If you would like more information give me a call or email. I would love to share the love, save you some money and a whole lot of water! Now, I wonder if the lovely Heather might ever think about getting me one of those cool remote starters for my truck?<br />
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Until next time, and thanks for your time.<br />
Eric Aune, Aune Plumbing LLC</div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-69776185505813293312010-11-29T13:39:00.000-08:002010-11-29T13:59:38.979-08:00Better get yours while the "gettin' is good"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BRILvxRG5E4/TG4BW_qMxiI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/t2uQi_BrywE/s1600/Rinnai.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BRILvxRG5E4/TG4BW_qMxiI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/t2uQi_BrywE/s200/Rinnai.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>Uncle Sam's offer for a $1500.00 tax credit to upgrade your home to be more energy efficient is soon to run out. December 31st to be exact. While some speculate the continuation of the program in the coming new year, now would be the only safe bet in getting your while the "gettin' is good" so to speak.<br />
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<span style="color: orange;">Do you have a home?</span> <br />
All homeowners in the United States are eligible for this 30% credit for every dollar you spend with a limit of $1500.00. With a wide range of opportunities to turn your home into a monument of efficiency, acting now could also save you a few bucks immediately. Home heating systems and water heaters are the seasonal choice as the snow falls and we are now spend<span style="background-color: #444444;"></span>ing more time indoors. Imagine lowering your heating bill by 10-25%!<br />
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<div style="color: orange;">Wait a minute, there's more!</div>Local utility companies and co-ops have been in this game for quite some time and are standing at the helm with cash rebates as incentive for you to lesson the stress on their grid. These rebates vary depending on your provider and the equipment selection but can range from $50 to upwards of $500! How's that for gratitude!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-37979495350160736822010-09-10T12:22:00.000-07:002010-09-10T12:22:24.685-07:00Training and Safety are top priority!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1tHCVqSmS1XEdY0eJ478aY0PBRrtZUhmyzMg0PzLyAESWW9iM0SLkAHZj9T0cQ4o2COtfgCN9ETC_vCPEpNWFcV5QY8UN5aQ9AUSTIrm5h5RVM1-IDpslKnD29f3_7YRU4fQuUAdTeSx/s1600/epa_leadsafecertfirm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD1tHCVqSmS1XEdY0eJ478aY0PBRrtZUhmyzMg0PzLyAESWW9iM0SLkAHZj9T0cQ4o2COtfgCN9ETC_vCPEpNWFcV5QY8UN5aQ9AUSTIrm5h5RVM1-IDpslKnD29f3_7YRU4fQuUAdTeSx/s320/epa_leadsafecertfirm.jpg" /></a></div>Training, be it from the factory or in the classroom has always been a top priority at Aune Plumbing. Having the latest skill set to better serve you is something we pride ourselves in and the latest training has brought us to the forefront of safety with your piece of mind being job one.<br />
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Aune Plumbing LLC has completed the proper training and certification requirements to work safely in your home where lead-based paint or coatings are present. With this training you can count on us to complete your project under guise of strict procedures set forth by the EPA. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-63891703009362636242010-08-21T06:36:00.000-07:002011-02-07T10:04:41.496-08:00Sexy? You bet!Click the link (post title) to read a great story about solar hot water. She's right and I've been saying this stuff is sexy for years!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-63276431944467891732010-07-14T10:19:00.000-07:002013-03-18T06:37:05.087-07:00Yes I need a new water heater, but what type?A typical residential water heater usually lasts 7-10 years. Depending on usage ans water quality, yours may last longer or fail sooner. At some point, your water heater will fail and the question often arises "Is there an alternative to the standard tank-type heater I already have?". As a homeowner you now have a variety of water heaters to choose from, many of which will perform as well or better than your existing heater but will likely save you money immediately! <br />
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<b style="color: orange;">Conventional Water Heaters</b><br />
Conventional water heaters are the most popular type. They hold water in a large tank--typically 20 to 80 gallons--heating cold water from the bottom and releasing hot water to the top. They automatically maintain water in the tank at a constant temperature set by you. Because they always maintain a reservoir of hot water, even when there is no demand, they're convenient, but they can waste energy. <br />
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There's another trade-off for that convenience, too. When conventional water heaters fail, they can empty their entire contents into the room, damaging carpets, appliances and personal items. In an apartment or condo, where one person's ceiling is another person's floor, the damage can spread to multiple households, multiplying the damage. <br />
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<b>Tankless or Instantaneous Water Heaters</b></div>
Tankless water only heat water when you turn on the hot side of a fixture. There is no large tank to maintain temperature, therefor, savings are realized immediately by only heating the water you need by a "on-demand" basis. A Federal Tax Credit of 30% installed cost is available to qualifying units, a tremendous incentive to go green!<br />
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Tankless water heaters are sized to provide enough hot water for an entire home, and when properly sized they will provide an almost endless amount of hot water. Annual maintenance is suggested based on water quality but, this is preventative and minimal in cost to have a professional perform if you choose not to do yourself.<br />
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<b>Heat Pump Waters Heaters</b></div>
Heat pump technology has been around for decades, recently it has been applied to heating water for domestic use. Kind of like "reverse" air conditioning, a heat pump uses electricity extremely efficiently to heat the water, lowering the annual costs and giving a calculated return on investment. This is a tank type heater that is best fit for a direct replacement of an existing electric water heater, but in some cases a great way to save on propane! Federal Tax Credit available for these too!<br />
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<b>Solar Water Heaters</b></div>
Want free hot water? An active solar thermal water heating system can be sized to effectively eliminate up to 90% of your water heating costs in your home or business. Simple, low maintenance systems make use of the sun's energy collected by panels mounted on the roof (typical), outside wall or even at ground level and store that energy in an insulated tank in the mechanical room. Coupled with a back-up water heater (usually tankless) and this is the ultimate green method of providing savings and utility to your home! Federal Tax Credits of 30% with no cap are available for the entire installation providing for a relatively short pay-back period making solar thermal the most cost effective avenue to invest in green technology.<br />
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<b style="color: orange;">Sizing is Key</b><br />
Correctly sizing any type water heater is essential to get an ample supply of hot water for your family while operating in the most energy-efficient and economical way. Aune Plumbing, LLC will gladly assist you in finding the best fit water heater for your needs. Give me a call to get started on saving money today.<br />
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<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">
Eric Aune</div>
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Aune Plumbing, LLC</div>
<span style="color: orange;">763-238-2385</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-27797494150402536672010-06-21T11:01:00.000-07:002010-06-21T11:01:48.466-07:00Hot Water Without the Waste!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZVBfSB7wnY_lYH-Nk8WYu1eAymeEJtkaF9OsvzHikAwOWdCfHf5gefoy7ZSpuXx9Mq9IsGPz-yo5xrsfDVyyzccUuM38FS6Ok3W5LV4eN-WfnDTCkWMFTUx8xuegTaiVIM4eD_d6SbfK/s1600/DMandSchematic2_lg+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZVBfSB7wnY_lYH-Nk8WYu1eAymeEJtkaF9OsvzHikAwOWdCfHf5gefoy7ZSpuXx9Mq9IsGPz-yo5xrsfDVyyzccUuM38FS6Ok3W5LV4eN-WfnDTCkWMFTUx8xuegTaiVIM4eD_d6SbfK/s320/DMandSchematic2_lg+copy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
"Have hot water at your fingertips whenever you turn on the faucet. Stop wasting water as you wait for cold to turn to hot. Stop burning energy as you wait for warm to turn warmer. The Taco D’MAND® System puts an end to the waste – and the wait – forever.<br />
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How D’MAND® works:<br />
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The D’MAND® System is a small, silent pump attached to your hot and cold water lines in the cabinet under your most remote kitchen or bath fixture. When D’MAND® System is activated, the cool water you normally let run down the drain is circulated back to the water heater through the cold water line.<br />
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At your “demand,” the pump circulates hot water from the water heater, and returns the cooled water back through the cold water line. When the hot water arrives at the faucet, the D’MAND® System’s patented heat sensor and control board shut off the pump to prevent pumping excess hot water into the cold water line.<br />
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Activate D’MAND® only when you need it. D’MAND® System only runs when you tell it to, and it’s smart enough to know when the water currently in the line is hot enough.<br />
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D’MAND® System can be activated with the push of a button, or with an optional wireless remote transmitter/receiver. D’MAND® System is easy to install. No new piping required.<br />
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The D’MAND® System not only saves water and energy, it saves in construction costs as well. No new return line is necessary; no need to drain the system; no demolition and repair." - <a href="http://www.taco-hvac.com/">www.taco-hvac.com</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606947991086060375.post-28855135801761540122010-06-15T11:01:00.000-07:002010-06-15T11:01:52.303-07:00In our community....<div style="color: red;">Aune Plumbing take great honor and pride in our participation in the community. Our latest efforts bring a calling for fund-raising, a little golf and a whole lot of FUN! </div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;">If you can help in this great event your participation will go further to enhance the possibilities of hundreds of area youth in the Elk River and Zimmerman community. Just think, a fun day on the course AND you will make a difference in the lives of so many for years to come!</div><div style="color: red;"> </div><div style="color: red;"> Please forward this to anyone whom may be interested, hang it up at your work, call your friends and get a foursome together......hope to see you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMFp0QqeM_ZXalMGLUkwASz2Dq-scA8m5h7emO1HaNZYBCF_H7srWLGsNEJbQ1o-2Uju279VI9hq9LJB7w94dPyqS7bItS_S2Zn4yy3ARc9WAFOV3lx_vBImfXwLKzXGOml0ww1tWkD7Q/s1600/golf+final0001+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJMFp0QqeM_ZXalMGLUkwASz2Dq-scA8m5h7emO1HaNZYBCF_H7srWLGsNEJbQ1o-2Uju279VI9hq9LJB7w94dPyqS7bItS_S2Zn4yy3ARc9WAFOV3lx_vBImfXwLKzXGOml0ww1tWkD7Q/s640/golf+final0001+copy.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div style="color: red;"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18353509460667322301noreply@blogger.com