PREVIOUS WEEKLY TIPS

Week of January 23, 2012

Humidifiers and Their Cleaning

You have to clean a humidifier periodically to clear mineral deposits and to disinfect the unit so that the water inside does not become contaminated.

	Central systems - annual disinfecting is adequate because their water supply is constantly replenished.
	Portable units - change the water daily and clean the appliance every third day as direction by the manufacturer

Need help with your central humidifier - call your contractor to assist you.  Don't have a contractor?  Check our search tool for a contractor in your area.

Week of January 16, 2012

NO ELECTRICITY?

	It is recommended, if you do not have electricity you should turn your thermostat to the off position and/or turn the switches to your heating equipment off.
	By doing this, if the electricity short cycles when it comes back on, you will eliminate the chance of your unit blowing its compressor.

Week of January 9, 2012

Air Returns

	In addition to changing your filter every month (a good reminder trigger - when you pay your gas or electric bill - change your filter), regularly vacuum off the dust that gets trapped on the air return grille.
	Have the duct system cleaned, as well as the furnace. Contractors use powerful vacuums and long hoses that can snake through a network of ducts to remove dust trapped at joints and bends.
	Have your contractor install an electronic air cleaner. Cleaners are placed in ductwork close to the furnace and draw air through a grille of electrically charged plates that attract particles. Typical appliances remove more than 90 percent of dust, pollen, smoke and many other contaminants.  Don't have a contractor?   Check out our members listing for a contractor in your area.

Week of January 3, 2012

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  With both battery and electric detectors be sure to keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of December 26, 2011

Pay attention to your gas furnace - if you discover any of the following you should shut your unit down and call for an inspection:

	if you repeatedly hear any new or unfamiliar sounds while the unit is operating, there may be a problem;  for example, poorly performing burners can produce unfamiliar noises;
	if you smell any unusual odors, your unit may be operating improperly; for example, units can give off unfamiliar odors if components are required to operate in abnormal conditions;
	you should look for visible signs of a malfunctioning unit; examples include unusual amounts of moisture on windows inside the house, visibly burned components, or unusual dirt or rust accumulations on the vent pipe or in the unit;
	if you experience headache, nausea, fatigue, or dizziness, the cause could be exposure to carbon monoxide gas; this is often misdiagnosed as the flue, since the symptoms are similar; if the flu-like symptoms are exaggerated at home, but seem to subside away from the house, exposure to carbon monoxide gas could be the cause

(reprinted from A/C News)

Week of December 19, 2011

If you smell natural gas:

	alert others and leave the area immediately
	leave open any doors you pass through to help ventilate the area, but don't take time to open windows
	don not operate any electrical switches, thermostats, or appliance controls, including telephones and flashlights; all these devices cause sparks
	extinguish all open flames; do not use matches or lighters and do not attempt to light your appliances
	after leaving the house/building, call 911 and ask the operator to call the gas company
	do not allow contractors or others to dig or drill on your property unless they have checked with the local utility system to determine the location of buried pipes and cables

Natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, tasteless and odorless.   However, an unpleasant odor is added to the gas so you will know there is natural gas escaping.  Even if your home is not supplied with natural gas you need to know what to do to get out alive in the event you do detect its odor.

(source - WUSA, Channel 9 TV)

Week of December 12, 2011

To ensure the safe use of gas applications in the home, your should be aware of the following:

	never use flammable liquids around appliances;
	never store aerosol cans or containers of combustible liquids on or near appliances;
	never use an oven or range burner to warm a room;
	never allow children to play near appliances.

(source - WUSA, Channel 9 TV)

Week of December 5, 2011

Remember during a cold spell to leave all vents unobstructed.
Leave the thermostat at the same temperature; don't keep changing it.
If you have to call a technician - be kind - remember they are out in this wind chill trying to make you more comfortable.
If you haven't had your furnace looked at in awhile be sure to get a contractor in to do a winter inspection.
Having an inspection will help so you won't have an emergency "no heat" call during out next very cold spell.

Week of November 28, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  With both battery and electric detectors be sure to keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of November 21, 2011

NO HEAT?
It’s in the middle of a freezing cold night and your heating system has decided to take a break from keeping you warm. Before you call your heating contractor there are a few things that you should check yourself:

Thermostat Check

	Be sure your thermostat is set on "On" and "Heat or Auto" (not on "cool" and "off")
	Is the temperature set at least 3 degrees above current room temperature?
	If your thermostat is electronic, have you checked your batteries?

Check Your Fuses and Breakers

	If your home has breakers, check to see if any are tripped (if a breaker has been tripped it will be in a position that is between ON and OFF. Reset the breaker by turning all the way OFF, then back ON).
	If your home has fuses, check to see if the fuse for the furnace is blown. If so, replace it with the SAME SIZE (don’t increase the size) fuse.

Air Flow Check

If your unit seems to be operating, but not producing any heat, the furnace may not be firing. You can check:

	Do you have fuel? Check the level of your oil or propane.
	Check and see if your pilot is on.

If you’ve checked all the above and your system still doesn’t work call your heating contractor.

Don’t have a contractor?  Check for a contractor in your area by referring to our member listing.

(This information is provided by ACCA-NCC and it is suggested that you keep this handy for a "no heat" emergency.)

Week of November 14, 2011

For heat pump users — getting ready for the winter months is import to your outside unit. When doing that final mowing of the lawn make sure that grass from the mower is blown away from the unit. Make sure that the outdoor unit is free of debris. Trim or remove shrubs or obstructions within one foot of the unit. Keep the snow accumulation off the outdoor unit — it will block the airflow and increase energy use if left on the unit.

Week of November 7, 2011

Now is the time to prepare for the upcoming cold winter months.

Here are some steps to help you get ready:

	check that your heating supply registers are clear of draperies and furniture
	test windows and doors for air tightness - adding weather stripping and caulking where necessary
	caulk holes where pipes, vents and wires lead outside
	if purchasing a new furnace or heat pump, select one with a high efficiency rating
	schedule an annual heating system check-up with your heating contractor.

Week of October 31, 2011

The clocks will fall back this coming weekend (2:00 am on Sunday, November 6, 2011) and, like the time on the clocks, the leaves are changing and falling from the trees.  You need to make sure the leaves are away from your outside units.  Also remember to keep all outside air intakes and vents unobstructed.

Week of October 24, 2011

Did you know that lowering the room temperature at night and in daylight hours when no one is at home can save up to 35% off your heating bills?  Check with your contractor about getting a programmable thermostat to help you achieve this savings.  Don't have a contractor?  Check out our qualified contractors for one in your area.  (statistics from Washington Gas)

Week of October 17, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of October 10, 2011

	In the Washington metro area (District, Maryland and Virginia) a heating contractor must be licensed. You, as a consumer, have a right to ask to see a copy of that license.
	In Maryland, all heating and air conditioning contractors are required to have their license number on their trucks, proposals, and job tickets.
	Be sure you’re dealing with a licensed contractor.
	To borrow a phrase from the Syms Company© — "an educated consumer is our" member’s "best customer".

Week of October 3, 2011

The following is a check list to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in your home:

	Have your heating system "tuned up" by a qualified contractor to ensure it is in good working order.
	Keep your natural gas equipment clean and free of dust, lint, newspapers, rags and other debris, which not only are fire hazards but also block equipment air intakes.
	Make sure your home and utility room is adequately ventilated, particularly if you have insulated your home, had major renovations done or have enclosed your heating system.
	Install CO detectors in your home near sleeping areas.

Week of September 26, 2011

	Fall is here - it's now time to re-light your furnace pilot.  Instructions are found either on a metal plate attached to the appliance or in the manufacturer's operating manual.
	Schedule an annual heating system check-up with your heating contractor.  Don't have a contractor?  Check out our member list.
	Remember not to run your central residential air conditioning system when the outdoor temperature drops below 70 degrees.  By doing so could cause early compressor failure.

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  With both battery and electric detectors be sure to keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of September 19, 2011

Now might be a good time to consider installing storm windows if you don't have them.  Combination screen and storm windows are convenient because they can be opened easily when temperatures are moderate.  Storm windows also help as an energy saver - to keep your home at a more consistent temperature during both the winter and summer months.

Week of September 12, 2011

Washington Gas suggests the following check list in preparation for the winter months:

• Have your heating equipment inspected;
• Change your filters;

• Be sure your vents for your furnace, boiler and chimney are not blocked and they are properly adjust; this will help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

            Here are some additional helpful energy-efficiency resources:

• Alliance to Save Energy; www.ase.org
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), www.eere.energy.gov

Week of September 5, 2011

Ask your contractor or prospective contractor if they have NATE - North American Technician Excellence - certified technicians on staff.   NATE is a national certification for the heating and air conditioning  industry.   It tests the knowledge of the technician.  For more information go directly to NATE's web site.

Week of August 29, 2011

For those recovering from Hurricane Irene:  to those that had/have flooding around their gas furnace and gas water heater that the equipment be turned off and the pilot should not be relit until a professional has inspected the equipment. Any equipment that is in/has been in water should be turned off and not used until inspected (this would include heat pump air handlers). In this way any damage caused by the water can be assessed before turning them back on. It is also suggested for those that have lost power that they turn their air conditioning equipment to the off position (this normally can be down via the thermostat control). In this way it will prevent a surge to the unit when the power is turned back on and prevent damage to the equipment.

Week of August 22, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of August 15, 2011

Clean the outside condenser coil of your air conditioner once a year.  Collected dirt and objects can block the flow of air and reduce operating efficiency.  To clean, turn off the unit and spray the coils with water at a low pressure - high water pressure could bend the fins.  Try to spray from the top of the unit down and outward.

Week of August 8, 2011

When mowing the lawn near your outdoor unit make sure that grass from the mower is blown away from the unit.

Week of August 1, 2011

Make sure that the outdoor unit or condenser of a central air conditioner is free of debris.  Trim or remove shrubs or obstructions within one foot of the unit.

Week of July 25, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.  Make sure that you install a replacement filter that is the same size as the original.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of July 18, 2011

To help keep your air conditioner running efficiently use duct tape to seal any cracks between each section of the air ducts on your central air conditioning system.

Week of July 11, 2011

On June 30, 2011 The EPA noted that the average American home spends almost 20 percent of its utility bill on cooling. Increased energy production to run cooling systems raises your costs and contributes to pollution that adversely affects the quality of the air we breathe. Here are seven simple ways to help protect your wallet and the environment:

Use Ceiling Fans Optimally. Run your ceiling fan to create a cool breeze. If you raise your thermostat by only two degrees and use your ceiling fan, you can lower cooling costs by up to 14 percent. Remember that ceiling fans cool you, not the room, so when you leave the room make sure to turn off the fan.  Do not set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal.  It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling, and therefore, unnecessary expense.
Maximize Shade. Pull the curtains and shades closed before you leave your home to keep the sun’s rays from overheating the interior of your home. If you can, move container trees and plants in front of sun-exposed windows to serve as shade.
Find the Best Thermostat Settings. If you have a programmable thermostat, program it to work around your family’s summer schedule—set it a few degrees higher (such as 78 degrees) when no one is home, so you are not cooling an empty house.
Reduce Oven Time. Use a microwave or grill outside instead of oven cooking, when you can. Ovens take longer to cook food and can make your house warmer, requiring your air conditioning system to work harder to keep the house at a comfortable temperature.
Check Air Conditioner Filters. Check your cooling system’s air filter every month. If the filter looks dirty, change it. A good rule is to change the filter at least every three months. A dirty filter will slow air flow and make the system work harder to keep you cool—wasting energy. Also, remember to have your system serviced annually to ensure it’s running at optimum efficiency for money and energy savings.
Change to More Efficient Light Bulbs. Change out incandescent light bulbs with more energy-efficient lighting choices. Energy Star qualified lighting uses less energy and also produces approximately 75 percent less heat than incandescent lighting.
Plug Duct System Leaks. As much as 20 percent of the air moving through your home’s duct system is lost due to leaks and poor connections. Seal duct work using mastic sealant or metal tape and insulate all the ducts that you can access (such as those in attics, crawlspaces, unfinished basements, and garages). Also, make sure that connections at vents and registers are well-sealed where they meet floors, walls, and ceilings. These are common locations to find leaks and disconnected ductwork. 

Week of July 4, 2011

	When temperatures are high and the humidity is equally as high your air conditioning unit won't recover the temperature in your home like it normally does.  It doesn't necessarily mean there's something wrong with your unit - the unit is working as hard as it can.
	Should the unit still not recover the temperature in your home after the outside temperature and humidity have gone down then you might want to contact your contractor.
	Don't have a contractor?  Check here to find contractor in your area.

Week of June 27, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure. And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of June 20, 2011

Happy Summer!

Summer officially starts this week and with that brings the summer heat!  Keep in mind you shouldn't set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner.  It will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling, and therefore, unnecessary expense.

Vacation tip - if you're going on vacation, or going to be gone from your home for more than two days, you should set your thermostat to 80-85 degrees with the fan set on "auto."

Week of June 14, 2010

Window units?  Consider using an interior fan in conjunction with your window air conditioner to spread the cooled air more effectively through your home without greatly increasing your power use.

Week of June 6, 2011

To help you keep cool during this summer's high temperatures you can do just a few simple things:

	close drapes, blinds and shades during the day to keep out the sun (sunshine through windows can add heat to your home);
	use your oven and other heat-generating appliances in the early morning and late evening hours to keep your air conditioning from working too hard;
	use ceiling fans to increase your comfort level.

Week of May 30, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of May 23, 2011

When the technician arrives:

Does the technician have proper identification?
Are they in a clearly identified company vehicle?
Is the technician clean?
Did they arrive at the assigned time?
If you are in question don't hesitate to call the company to confirm the person at the door is their representative.

Week of May 16, 2011

An oversized air conditioner does not mean cool comfort for you. It means higher first costs, higher electricity bills, and a home that’s uncomfortable to be in.

	Oversized air conditioners run up your utility bill.
	An oversized air conditioner can cover up other problems.
	Oversized air conditioners cost more to buy and don’t last as long.
	An oversized air conditioner makes your house clammy.
	Oversized air conditioners are noisy.

Be sure your contractor installs the correct size for your home. Don’t have a contractor? Check out the "meet our members" list for a contractor in your area.

Week of May 9, 2011

Humidity control can be a problem during the summer months. To avoid excessive moisture that can breed mold and mildew consider the following:

	make sure the clothes dryer is vented to the outside;
	don't over water your house plants;
	dry clothes immediately after washing;
	use exhaust fans in your kitchen when cooking, and in the bath when bathing;
	ask your air conditioning contractor about getting a dehumidifier to help control the humidity - don't have a contractor? Call an ACCA-NCC member in your area.

Week of May 2, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of April 25, 2011

Your air conditioner blew its fuse?  If the home electric supply is interrupted momentarily the compressor may not restart because of the high pressures still in the liquid line. Under those pressures the compressor is presenting a dead short to the breaker box and off it goes. Reset your breaker or replace the fuse.  If this continues to happen - call your contractor.  Don't have a contractor?  Visit https://www.acca.org/consumer/find-a-contractor for a contractor in your area.

Week of April 18, 2011

In the Summer:

Set the thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. You pay extra for every degree below the recommended setting.
Portable and ceiling fans cost pennies to operate and can help your home feel cooler at higher thermostat settings.
Turn the fan switch on central cooling systems and room units to automatic (auto) instead of continuous (on).
Provide exterior shading, such as awnings or solar screens, for windows exposed to direct sun.
Arrange furniture so lamps or other heat-producing appliances are not close to the thermostat.
Keep fresh air intake or exhaust vents on room air conditioners closed.

Week of April 11, 2011

No matter what kind of air conditioning (and heating) system you have in your home, you can save money and increase comfort by properly maintaining and upgrading your equipment. For an ACCA-NCC contractor near you search on our contractor member list.

Week of April 4, 2011

	Check your ducts for air leaks. First look for sections that should be joined but have separated and then look for obvious holes.
	If your basement has been converted to a living area, install both supply and return registers in the basement rooms.
	Get a professional to help you insulate and repair all ducts.

Week of March 28, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of March 21, 2011

Spring arrived this past Sunday!!  That means it's time to schedule your spring check-up on your air conditioning system.  Many contractors refer to these check-ups as a preventive maintenance or your annual spring check and clean.  Whatever it's called, by having this done before the summer heat arrives could help in avoiding your equipment being down during an extreme hot spell.

Don't have a contractor?  Check our member list for a licensed contractor in your area.

Week of March 14, 2011

It’s More Than a Career, It’s a Profession

The heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) industry manages indoor environments. It is an industry that our society depends on year-round. The HVACR industry - a $150 billion a year business - employs many people, and more and more skilled people are needed to fill the increasing demand. In addition, the industry works on issues that affect our environment such as indoor air quality and protecting the earth's ozone layer through refrigerant recovery.

This is a profession and jobs in the $150 billion a year HVACR industry are predicted to increase through the end of this decade and into the next century, as demand grows for industrial, commercial, and residential climate control systems. To maintain or replace older comfort systems, additional new jobs will be created.

Average first year salaries (as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1995)

HVACR Professionals $29,500*
Lawyer (Public Sector) $29,200
Travel Agent $21,300
Secretary $19,100
Journalist $18,000
Cosmetologist $14,800

*With a two-year degree

After graduation from high school, you can get additional training at a local community college, or at a university. Look for two-year associate programs or colleges and universities with high rates of job placement. Often they can find jobs for 100% of their HVACR graduates with four-year engineering degrees, at starting salaries ranging from $20,000 to $31,000, depending on the applicant's experience and job location. Universities like Ferris State report there are 25 jobs available for each HVACR graduate.

Another direction can be to participate in an apprenticeship program. Apprentices gain hands-on skills by working in the field, earn money, and learn at the same time. In the Washington metro are ACCA-National Capital Chapter (ACCA-NCC) endorses two apprenticeship programs for the HVACR industry. The Virginia Apprenticeship Program (703-227-2300) and ACCA-NCC’s Maryland State approved apprenticeship program held at Montgomery College in Rockville (301-384-ACCA).

Week of March 7, 2011

Humidity control for pianos

	Seasonal and even daily changes in humidity cause wood parts to swell and shrink, affecting tuning stability and touch. Extreme swings in humidity can eventually cause wood to crack and glue joints to fail.
	Very high humidity can even create condensation on metal parts such as strings, tuning pins, and hardware, eventually causing them to rust.
	What can be done to minimize humidity problems? Use of a room humidifier during dry seasons will help somewhat. However, it is preferable to have a whole-house humidifier installed, with a humidistat to keep the humidity at a set level. A qualified heating contractor can do this.

Week of February 28, 2011

	Don't Forget Those Filters - change your filters once a month. As a good reminder - when you pay your gas or electric bill - use that as your trigger to remember to change your filter. A clean filter allows your unit to run more efficiently which causes less wear and tear on the equipment.
	Also, remember to regularly check the smoke detectors in your house to make sure they are working.  If your smoke detector runs on electricity, be sure you have a battery back up in case of a power failure.  And keep fresh batteries installed with extras on hand.

Week of February 21, 2011

Call Us First

	Call us before you call a heating contractor in the Washington metro area and we will be happy to tell you if a contractor is a member of our association and if there’s any outstanding complaints filed with ACCA-NCC against that company (301-384-ACCA).
	Even though we don’t refer to contractors, you can check our "Find a contractor in your area" on our web site and search, by county, for an ACCA-NCC contractor that is licensed to do work in your area.

Week of February 14, 2011

As we go through the melting process from the record snow that the Washington, DC has just experienced be sure to keep the snow and ice off the top of your heat pump and away from the sides of the unit; these two measurers will help from keeping the unit from freezing up.  Also be sure the exhaust vents for your gas furnace and dryer are clear. 

If you smell natural gas:

	alert others and leave the area immediately
	leave open any doors you pass through to help ventilate the area, but don't take time to open windows
	don not operate any electrical switches, thermostats, or appliance controls, including telephones and flashlights; all these devices cause sparks
	extinguish all open flames; do not use matches or lighters and do not attempt to light your appliances
	after leaving the house/building, call 911 and ask the operator to call the gas company
	do not allow contractors or others to dig or drill on your property unless they have checked with the local utility system to determine the location of buried pipes and cables

Natural gas is non-toxic, colorless, tasteless and odorless.   However, an unpleasant odor is added to the gas so you will know there is natural gas escaping.  Even if your home is not supplied with natural gas you need to know what to do to get out alive in the event you do detect its odor.

(source - WUSA, Channel 9 TV)

Week of February 7, 2011

Hiring a heating contractor?  Ask them:

	Are you going to give me your quote in writing (on a printed form — not scratched out on a piece of plan paper)?  This should outline what the contractor's, as well as the consumer's, responsibilities are.
	Do you have the desire and ability to perform warranty service throughout the warranty period?  Some contractors only install — they won't service the equipment.
	Don't consider price only.  Be sure that you are comparing "apples to apples" when considering more than one contractor; be sure they are quoting you on the same size unit and offering the same service.
	Is your company licensed to do the work in my city, county, state?  May I see a copy of those licenses?
	Does your company employ certified CFC technicians?  May I see a copy of their license (this is an federally (EPA) mandated license for technicians to handle refrigerant)?
	Does your company employ NATE certified technicians?  This is an industry certification and not required but does indicate that the company is interested in having knowledgeable technicians on staff.
	Will you please provide references?  Find out if other customers are satisfied.

Don't have a contractor?  Check our member listing for a contractor in your area.