Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2024-09-09T14:01:00

(BPT) – Heating and cooling often make up the bulk of utility bills — and the right HVAC system can make a world of difference in both energy bills and home comfort. Recently, heat pumps have become a trending topic in the news for their ability to address both of these needs by providing sustainable home comfort while simultaneously lowering utility bills. But can they really do both?

To answer that question, it’s important to first understand how a heat pump works. When the thermostat temperature is raised and heat is needed, the system pulls heat energy from the ambient air outside the home to heat the home. When air conditioning is desired, it does the opposite, removing heat from inside the home and expelling it to make the home cooler.

Because heat energy is moved around rather than being produced directly, heat pumps can provide more sustainable — and more efficient fuel source alternatives. In addition, recent advancements have made heat pumps far more efficient and more reliable than ever before — even in colder climates. As a result, both federal and local agencies are offering money-saving incentives to help more homeowners switch to heat pumps making it an ideal time to invest in a new heat pump.

But even with these benefits, there are still a lot of myths about how heat pumps work. We’re debunking some of the top heat pump misconceptions.

Myth 1: Heat pumps won’t work in cold climates

Fact: Today’s heat pumps can provide efficient heating in colder climates than ever before

In the past, some older heat pumps could struggle to heat a space efficiently when outdoor temperatures were especially cold. However, today’s heat pumps are engineered to function as the primary heating source in almost all geographic regions, even when temperatures drop below freezing.

The key to providing sufficient heat capacity in especially cold climates is the compressor — the part of a heat pump that moves heat through the system. In the past, heat pumps typically relied on single-speed compressors that functioned like an on/off switch, making it harder for the system to cope with extreme swings in temperature. Today’s more advanced heat pumps leverage variable-speed compressor technology to make incremental adjustments that keep pace with changing temperature more efficiently and more accurately. In addition, many heat pumps rated for cold-climate use now feature vapor injection technology, which further boosts cold-weather heating performance.

Myth 2: Heat pumps don’t really save money

Fact: 90% of homeowners can reduce their utility bills with a heat pump

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that almost all homeowners can expect to see cost savings by switching to an energy-efficient electric heat pump. Today’s heat pump offerings are wide-ranging and can meet the unique needs of almost any home, comfort level, or budget. Innovations in energy efficiency mean less electricity is used to cut costs in most homes. For example, the newly launched YORK^® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump can precisely match a home’s changing comfort needs while reducing homeowners’ energy bills by up to 50% compared to less efficient HVAC systems.

Myth 3: Heat pumps are noisy

Fact: Many heat pumps are as quiet as a dishwasher

No one wants to hear excessive noise coming from their HVAC system. Premium heat pumps combine insulated cabinets and low-sound fan designs to deliver whisper-quiet performance when operating in both heating and AC modes.

Myth 4: Temperatures will be inconsistent

Fact: Heat pumps seamlessly move between heating and cooling for consistent comfort

We all want to feel comfortable in our homes. Variable-speed heat pumps automatically move between heating and cooling modes throughout operation to maintain precise temperature and humidity levels. These seamless adjustments provide unmatched home comfort while helping to maximize energy efficiency, especially when compared to single-phase heat pumps that simply turn on and off and provide inconsistent inside temperatures.

Myth 5: Heat pumps require a lot of space

Fact: New compact designs are 30% smaller than traditional equipment

Innovative, new heat pump designs like the YORK^® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump offer top-tier efficiency and variable-speed performance in a compact size. The side-discharge design allows the heat pump to be stacked, placed under raised decks, or installed in zero-lot-line neighborhoods.

Myth 6: Installing a new heat pump is expensive

Fact: A wide range of rebates and incentives are available now

A historic number of savings programs are available to help offset the cost of installing a high-efficiency home heat pump. Through a combination of immediate discounts, tax rebates, and utility and manufacturers’ offers, some qualifying homeowners can offset 100% of the cost of installing a heat pump. Additionally, some manufacturers offer simplified financing options with fixed monthly payments to make the investment more manageable.

Learn more about today’s heat pump innovations and cost-saving programs from YORK^®: https://www.york.com/residential-equipment/heating-and-cooling/split-system-heat-pumps.

2024-09-09T10:01:00

(BPT) – Maintaining the walls of your home is essential for both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Over time, walls can suffer from various types of damage, whether it’s from everyday wear and tear, accidents or environmental factors. From the more common drywall holes to texture damage, concrete wall cracks and water damage, understanding how to effectively address these issues is crucial for any homeowner. Proper repairs not only restore the appearance of your walls but also prevent further deterioration and potentially costly repairs down the line. Here are practical solutions for repairing different types of wall damage, ensuring your home remains in top condition.

Drywall hole repairs

Drywall hole repairs are among the most common wall repairs homeowners encounter. Many drywall holes can be easily patched with spackling or a drywall patch kit. For the ultimate spackling option, DAP Fast Dry Premium Spackling is a professional-grade spackling compound with a smooth, one-strike application that leaves a rock-solid coat that won’t sink, shrink or crack, offering superior impact resistance and is paint ready in as little as just 15 minutes. Another great solution for repairing drywall holes is the Eclipse Rapid Wall Repair Patch. Whether the damage is small from a picture frame nail or anchor or as large as doorknob damage, simply apply the patch and it’s paint ready immediately. With Eclipse, projects can be completed faster with a permanent, mess-free solution that offers superior impact resistance.

Texture damage repairs

Texture damage repairs are necessary when the wall’s surface texture is compromised, often after fixing cracks or holes. The challenge lies in matching the existing wall texture to create a professional look. For a seamless repair, try DAP’s 2in1 Wall & Ceiling Spray Texture for orange peel, knockdown and popcorn textures. Unlike competitive products on the market, DAP’s aerosol cans feature Aim Tech technology that offers a 60-degree adjustable nozzle angle to easily repair vertical, overhead and hard-to-reach areas with one can, providing users much flexibility when completing projects. Once dry, the wall can be painted to match the rest of the room. A useful tip is to practice on a piece of cardboard before applying the texture to the wall to ensure you achieve the desired consistency and pattern.

Concrete wall repairs

Concrete wall repairs are typically needed when cracks or spalling occur, often due to settling or exposure to the elements. For small cracks, applying concrete repair caulk or epoxy filler can restore the wall’s integrity. Larger cracks may require chiseling out the damaged area and filling it with a concrete patching compound. Spalling, where the surface of the concrete flakes or chips away, involves removing the damaged material and applying a new layer of concrete. To ensure a durable repair, it’s essential to clean the area thoroughly before applying any patching materials and to use a bonding agent to help the new concrete adhere to the old.

Water damage repairs

Water damage repairs are critical not only for aesthetic reasons but also for preventing mold and structural issues. The first step in repairing water-damaged walls is to identify and eliminate the source of the moisture to prevent future problems. Once the area is dry, remove any damaged drywall or plaster and replace it with new material. It’s essential to treat the area for mold or mildew, using appropriate cleaning solutions, before proceeding with repairs. After replacing the damaged sections, apply a stain-blocking primer to prevent water stains from bleeding through the paint. For lasting results, ensure the area is completely dry before painting and consider using moisture-resistant materials in areas prone to dampness.

For more wall repair tips, visit DAP.com.

2024-09-06T12:05:04

(BPT) – Easy-to-use Glidden^® Master Finish™ spray paint, available at Walmart, allows DIYers to complete projects faster.

Whether homeowners need a backyard refresh ahead of hosting a party or they never completed those outdoor projects planned at the beginning of summer, Glidden^® Master Finish™ spray paint has them covered.

“Refinishing furniture with spray paint is one of the easiest DIY projects out there, and the perfect way to quickly get your space ready for weekend hosting,” said Anamaria Cindric, product manager of spray paint, Glidden Paints by PPG. “With Glidden Master Finish, you can refresh your patio furniture that might be looking a little worn from the winter or update color to match a new trend or aesthetic.

Anyone who has spray painted in the past knows that one of the biggest application concerns is the potential for drips and streaks due to over-spraying. Glidden Master Finish has a unique spray pattern that provides the high-coverage and durable finish of spray paint, without the worry of drips or streaks.

Finding the right time to spray paint is also a challenge, with concerns about when the next passing summer storm could impact the project drying outside. With a five-minute dry time, Glidden Master Finish allows DIYers to quickly complete their end-of-season projects in the span of a few hours, depending on project size.

Popular exterior project updates using Master Finish include:

• Create instant curb appeal — Homeowners can make updates to small exterior items like house numbers, light fixtures and mailboxes. Small upgrades like these can add instant curb appeal to a home’s facade, creating an inviting aesthetic to welcome weekend guests, in as little as two hours with just one can of spray paint. At less than $8 a can, these projects are a low time and budget investment that deliver high.
• Beautify the backyard — Homeowners can turn flowerpots and beds into colorful backyard focal points by adding a fresh coat of paint or creating a fun design. Available in 22 colors, Glidden Master Finish offers a hue to fit any backyard aesthetic.
• Take a seat (or two) — Summer parties, strong sunshine and summer rains can all give outdoor furniture a beating by this time of year. With a few additional cans of Master Finish and a few more hours to spare, homeowners can revitalize their outdoor furniture. A table and four chairs can be refreshed in just one day using three to six cans of spray paint, depending on the size and number of furniture pieces.

“With a dry time of less than five minutes, Glidden Master Finish is a great option for quick end-of-summer projects, allowing you to refresh your space while still allowing time to enjoy the weekend,” said Cindric.

The best part is that picking up a can of Glidden Master Finish doesn’t add an extra stop to your errands and weekend shopping. This spray paint is available at select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, so homeowners can grab a can on-the-go.

Glidden Master Finish can be used on all surfaces including vinyl, wood, metal, plastic, terracotta and glass. It is available in matte, satin and gloss finishes.

For more spray paint project inspiration as well as application tips, visit Glidden.com or Walmart.com.

2024-08-27T09:31:00

(BPT) – Railing is a necessary part of any deck: not just for safety, but also to make an immediate style statement. Here are eight on-trend railing styles sure to enhance any outdoor space:

1. Cable Railing

A modern and popular option among today’s homeowners, cable railing is appreciated for its durability and minimalism. The Trex Signature^® X-Series™ features a view-optimizing cable offering that is also easy to maintain.

2. Composite Railing

Much like composite decking, composite railing is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to maximize curb appeal with minimal upkeep. It won’t warp, rot, peel or splinter and never needs to be sanded, stained or sealed.

3. Rod Railing

Sleek, sturdy and undeniably modern, rod rail is a more robust alternative to cable railing and an ideal choice for trendy deck owners looking to add a touch of modern farmhouse flair.

4. Cocktail Railing

Popular with entertainers, cocktail railing (also known as “drink rail”) features a flat top rail, perfect for resting things like a morning cup of coffee, a plate of appetizers or potted plants for a pop of color!

5. Mesh Infill

Featuring a subtle grid-like design, mesh panels offer a happy medium between vertical and horizontal infill and are great for enhancing views. Corrosion-resistant material ensures that this Trex Signature railing will provide excellent views for years to come without compromising on style.

6. Glass Infill

Always in style, glass railing is beloved for being a chic and sophisticated choice that delivers virtually unobstructed, picture-perfect views.

7. Mixed Materials

Can’t decide between all the possible railing materials? Go ahead and mix things up! This combination of metal and composite creates a stylish frame for any outdoor oasis.

8. Rail Lighting

Looking for some extra oomph? Rail lights are a great add-on to any deck railing, whether you’re looking to enhance safety or simply add some atmospheric “ahhh”mbiance.

More deck railing ideas and helpful tools can be found on Trex.com.

2024-08-26T17:49:00

(BPT) – Halloween is just around the corner. Why not do it up big this year? From 12-foot animatronic scarecrows and other oversized inflatables to Halloween-inspired planters filled with the colors of the season, homeowners are revamping their outdoor spaces to showcase their Halloween spirit.

“Since the spooky season is starting earlier than ever, and homeowners are itching to decorate sooner, many are looking for décor that can last for the entire fall season,” said Monica Reese, Director of Trend and Style at Lowe’s. “We’re seeing consumers blend more traditional fall and harvest décor with Halloween. That said, we know there are a lot of people who still go all out with their Halloween decorations, creating awe-inspiring set-ups. We continue to see consumers reaching for oversized ‘wow’ items for their yard and front porch.”

For indoor décor, Reese expects that consumers will fill their spaces with mixed materials and textures to give a “luxe goth” look, such as feathers, metallic finishes, faux pampas, beads, velvet, black florals and more.

“We’ll see these textures come to life through throw pillows, festive wreaths and moody garlands that will elevate mantels, tablescapes, living spaces and entryways,” she said.

Need more spooky ideas to get your ghost on? Here are some Halloween dos and don’ts from Monica Reese at Lowe’s.

Do:

• Buy pieces that can be used for the full fall and Halloween season.
• Think big! Oversized pieces for your yard or even for interiors can bring a new dimension to your spooky setup.
• Tap into your creative side. Halloween gives us a chance to showcase our creative side and create fun, whimsical, or spooky DIY decor. Whether you construct a festive fall wreath for your front door, an eerie graveyard for your lawn, or a fearsome bat house, you can find all your Halloween project materials at Lowe’s.
• Mix textures and patterns. Play around with things like uplighting, mums and metallic spray paint on drop cloths.
• Involve the whole family. Decorating your house and yard can be a great project for you and the kids on a Saturday afternoon!

Don’t:

• Don’t be afraid to try new things! Halloween is such a fun holiday and an opportunity to express your own personal style. Shopping at Lowe’s offers a range of design options for every kind of Halloween enthusiast.
• Don’t be afraid to go with a theme! At Lowe’s this year, you can find themes like:
  • Haunted Harbor Collection: This year, the perils of the unexplored deep inspired Lowe’s on-trend Haunted Harbor collection with sea witches and sea hags to zombie fishermen, undead divers and even the Kraken itself. Shoppers couldn’t get their hands on Kraken fast enough, so Lowe’s will release the Kraken again soon!
  • Wednesday Collection: Since its premiere, fans have fallen for Wednesday and the show’s sarcastic, supernatural spookiness. Lowe’s brings Wednesday to life in a new way this Halloween season with its collection of animatronics, including Wednesday Addams herself, Cousin It, Joseph Crackstone and other undead relics from Nevermore Academy.
  • The Haunted Mansion Collection: For a ghoulish and ghostly good time this Halloween, Lowe’s leans into Disney’s The Haunted Mansion with trending pieces, like Beatrice the Headless Maiden, Headless Knight, Caretaker, Madame Leota Tombstones, and other relics, like candelabras, globes and plaques.

And most of all, don’t forget to get into the “spirit” of the holiday and have fun. To find more Halloween décor inspiration and ideas, visit www.lowes.com/halloween.

2024-08-26T14:31:00

(BPT) – Easy-to-use Glidden^® Master Finish™ spray paint, available at Walmart, allows DIYers to complete projects faster, leaving plenty of time to still enjoy the long holiday weekend.

Labor Day Weekend is quickly approaching, marking the end of summer. Whether homeowners need a backyard refresh ahead of Labor Day hosting or they never completed those outdoor projects planned at the beginning of summer, Glidden^® Master Finish™ spray paint has them covered.

“Refinishing furniture with spray paint is one of the easiest DIY projects out there, and the perfect way to quickly get your space ready for long weekend hosting,” said Anamaria Cindric, product manager of spray paint, Glidden Paints by PPG. “With Glidden Master Finish, you can refresh your patio furniture that might be looking a little worn from the winter or update color to match a new trend or aesthetic.

Anyone who has spray painted in the past knows that one of the biggest application concerns is the potential for drips and streaks due to over-spraying. Glidden Master Finish has a unique spray pattern that provides the high-coverage and durable finish of spray paint, without the worry of drips or streaks.

Finding the right time to spray paint is also a challenge, with concerns about when the next passing summer storm could impact the project drying outside. With a five-minute dry time, Glidden Master Finish allows DIYers to quickly complete their end-of-season projects in the span of a few hours, depending on project size, leaving plenty of time to enjoy poolside entertaining and BBQ mastery during the final days of summer.

Popular exterior project updates using Master Finish include:

• Create instant curb appeal — Homeowners can make updates to small exterior items like house numbers, light fixtures and mailboxes. Small upgrades like these can add instant curb appeal to a home’s facade, creating an inviting aesthetic to welcome long weekend guests, in as little as two hours with just one can of spray paint. At less than $8 a can, these projects are a low time and budget investment that deliver high ROI for holiday weekend entertaining.
• Beautify the backyard — Homeowners can turn flowerpots and beds into colorful backyard focal points by adding a fresh coat of paint or creating a fun design. Available in 22 colors, Glidden Master Finish offers a hue to fit any backyard aesthetic.
• Take a seat (or two) — Summer parties, strong sunshine and summer rains can all give outdoor furniture a beating by mid-year. With a few additional cans of Master Finish and a few more hours to spare, homeowners can revitalize their outdoor furniture before Labor Day. A table and four chairs can be refreshed in just one day using 3-6 cans of spray paint, depending on the size and number of furniture pieces.

“With a dry time of less than 5 minutes, Glidden Master Finish is a great option for quick end-of-summer projects, making sure your space looks refreshed in time for the long weekend, while still allowing you time to enjoy the mental refresh that comes with the extra day off of work,” said Cindric.

The best part is that picking up a can of Glidden Master Finish doesn’t add an extra stop to your errands and party prep shopping. This spray paint is available at select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com, so homeowners can grab a can on-the-go, while shopping for cookout supplies, beverages and snacks or, for parents looking ahead wishfully … back-to-school gear.

Glidden Master Finish can be used on all surfaces including vinyl, wood, metal, plastic, terracotta and glass. It is available in matte, satin and gloss finishes.

For more spray paint project inspiration as well as application tips, visit Glidden.com or Walmart.com.

2024-08-07T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is peak season for residential and commercial construction. Advances in material science and novel technologies are contributing to safety and efficiency on the jobsite as they help architects and contractors achieve high-performing homes and buildings. While today’s construction pros are making use of new tools and practices, they continue to trust legacy materials that have proven their value through decades of service in high-performing buildings. Mineral wool insulation offers a good example of a building material that has stood the test of time. Thermafiber^® mineral wool has helped support safety, acoustics and comfort in homes and buildings for 90 years.

A material born in fire

Introduced in 1934, Thermafiber^® mineral wool insulation is comprised of a blend of raw materials including rock and blast furnace slag, a byproduct of the steel industry. The insulation is made by melting materials at temperatures above 2600 F and channeling the molten “lava-like” mixture onto high-speed spinning wheels. The intense temperatures and high-speed spinning process produces a resilient and non-combustible insulating material that is fire resistant. Manufacturing processes also contribute to versatility. For example, specific steps and process controls during manufacturing can formulate mineral wool to absorb or repel water.

More than the name implies

The combination of “thermal” and “fiber” in the name might suggest that Thermafiber^® is a temperature-centric material. However, its performance goes far beyond helping mitigate heat transfer. Installed in wall cavities, building perimeters and behind the facade, mineral wool helps deliver several benefits in homes, commercial buildings, schools, hospitals and other built structures. Following are just five ways that mineral wool helps support high-performing structures.

1. Fire safety: Mineral wool can be precisely formulated to support fire resistance and contribute to passive fire protection. Complementing detective fire systems like smoke detectors and active systems such as sprinklers, mineral wool requires no activation mechanism to deliver fire resistance. Mineral wool’s reputation as a fire-resistant material is evidenced by its use in the marketplace. Thermafiber^® mineral wool is trusted in 4 out of 5 of America’s tallest buildings and was the first insulation to receive the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFETY Act Designation. In homes, mineral wool insulation’s fire resistance contributes to homeowner peace of mind in critical areas of the home where fire is a concern such as the kitchen and the shared wall between garage and home.

2. Acoustic performance: Simply defined, noise is unwanted sound, and it can present a problem for employees, students, healthcare workers and homeowners. Sources of noise include room-specific noises (i.e., monitors, alarms, ventilators in a hospital room, meetings in conference rooms, etc.), external traffic and mechanical rooms. Spaces ranging from hospital rooms to dorm rooms to home entertainment rooms are just a few areas in residential and commercial buildings where noise reduction and comfort are top concerns. Mineral wool insulation installed in buildings acts to isolate noise and reduce sound transmission between spaces.

3. Moisture mitigation: A home or building must be able to manage liquid and vapor moisture and defend against moisture getting trapped in the wall cavity. Installed as a continuous insulation, mineral wool helps reduce the possibility of condensation within the wall when warm, moist air is prevented from reaching a dew point temperature. For example, Owens Corning Thermafiber^® RainBarrier^® helps venues ranging from hospitals to museums efficiently drain water from a building’s wall cavity system.

4. Thermal performance: During hot summers and cold winters, Thermafiber^® mineral insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures as it helps act as a barrier to heat transfer and offers an R-value of up to 4.3 per inch of thickness.

5. Enduring innovation: For 90 years, Thermafiber^® mineral wool insulation has insulated homes and buildings across the globe with leading innovations in insulation products, applications, systems and accessories.

The commitment to advancing material science isn’t slowing down. Thermafiber^® mineral wool’s 90-year legacy of innovation continues to explore new frontiers to elevate the performance of homes and buildings under construction today as well as those that will be built in the future.

2024-08-07T07:01:00

(BPT) – Many homeowners are diligent about having their home’s air conditioning system regularly inspected and serviced. After all, who wants to toss and turn on a sweltering night because the air conditioner stopped working? However, a home’s cooling equipment is not the only residential HVAC component that benefits from regular inspection. The various parts of a home’s heating and cooling system work together to support whole-home comfort and energy efficiency. Consequently, an HVAC maintenance call should not end with simply checking the equipment but should evaluate the whole system — including a home’s attic.

Consider the whole system

Depending on location, some components of the HVAC system are more obvious than others. The condenser that conditions air as well as the registers that allow cooled/conditioned air to enter living spaces are typically visible. Issues that can compromise comfort — like a closed register — may be easy to spot and resolve with simple practices. For example, changing the air filter regularly, as directed by the manufacturer, can help support the cooling system’s operating efficiency. Problems in more remote areas of a home’s comfort system — like attic ductwork — can be more challenging to spot and resolve.

When attic ductwork is damaged, or an attic lacks sufficient insulation, comfort and energy efficiency issues can occur. Loose connections or holes in attic ductwork can allow particulates in the attic to be distributed throughout the home’s interior and conditioned air can escape before it reaches the supply register. Some potential signs of problems with attic ductwork include:

• Excess dust in the living areas of the home
• Musty and unusual odors (think attic smell)
• Rooms that are consistently too hot or too cold
• Equipment that cycles on and off more frequently
• A spike in energy bills

Depending on conditions in the attic, insect or vermin debris, mold or simply a “stale air” smell can potentially infiltrate into a home’s living spaces. If moisture is present in the attic, conditions can allow for mold to grow, entering ductwork and “polluting” indoor air.

Caring for air with a “whole home” approach

As part of the HVAC system, attic ductwork should not be overlooked when it comes to protecting a home’s indoor air quality. A whole-home approach to caring for a home’s air considers how conditions in the attic (and other parts of the home — like crawl spaces and garages) can influence air throughout the home. Because ductwork is often located in the attic, this location provides an attractive opportunity to potentially improve comfort throughout the whole home and helps support energy efficiency. Adding an adequate amount of attic insulation and retrofitting attic ductwork are two steps to consider when taking a whole-home approach to air care.

Contractors designated as Owens Corning AirCare^® Professionals are trained on the whole home approach and look to identify areas in a home’s attic that may lead to problems with air throughout the home. AirCare^® Professionals are equipped with tools to assess and evaluate conditions in the attic. For example, assuring an adequate insulation thickness can help support thermal efficiency in all seasons. AirCare^® Professionals can recommend a level of insulation to help the homeowner increase energy efficiency.

In addition to measuring attic insulation, an Owens Corning AirCare^® Professional can help ensure that ductwork in the attic is properly sealed and sized to help support comfort and energy efficiency. He or she will evaluate the system for loose connections and evaluate the ductwork to ensure components are properly sealed. Starting at the top — in the attic — can bring a whole-home approach to supporting an HVAC system. To find an AirCare^® professional and potentially improve your home’s overall comfort, visit the online locator at HVAC Contractor Locator | Insulation | Owens Corning.

2024-07-30T16:31:00

(BPT) – American homeowners may not realize that their water heater accounts for roughly 13% of annual residential energy use. Recently, the Department of Energy (DOE) passed new water heater efficiency standards that will help save approximately $7.6 billion and reduce more than 332 million metric tons of carbon emissions.

The federal-level Inflation Reduction Act passed in 2022, along with a variety of state and municipal programs, which can be found through tools such as Rheem^®’s Rebate Finder website, offers rebates and tax incentives to make it easier to upgrade to more energy-efficient models.

Whether you are looking for a heat pump water heater or a more conventional option, here are steps to help identify the ideal water heater for any home.

Assess your hot water needs

Keep in mind the number of people in the home and estimate hot water usage (in gallons) for activities like showering, dishwashing, laundry and cooking. Identify peak usage periods such as mornings and evenings when the demand for hot water likely increases and consider available energy sources.

Choose the right type of water heater

Each category of water heater has its own set of unique advantages. Selecting the right one depends on each household’s specific needs, budget and space availability. Rheem^® offers a full line of heat pump, tank and tankless water heaters, each designed to meet the demands of diverse homes and occupants while providing long-term savings.

With three primary types of water heaters, here’s what each style has to offer.

Heat pump water heaters (HPWH): These units use electricity to move heat from the air to heat the water, making them significantly more energy-efficient than conventional electric water heaters. Benefits include lower environmental impact due to their high efficiency. These units also provide savings on energy bills. In fact, by upgrading to a more efficient heat pump water heater, the average homeowner savings could reach $1,800 over the appliance’s lifetime, with more advantages for renters and low-income households. All of these features make HPWH’s a cost-effective option for the long-term.

Conventional storage tanks: Available in electric, propane and natural gas options, these units can store a large volume of hot water in a tank that is ready for use at any time and maintain it at a set temperature until needed. Features include a lower initial install cost and the ability to provide hot water during power outages (for gas models). Keep in mind that tank-type options require more floor space than a tankless water heater and use energy to replace heat losses from the tank.

Tankless water heaters: Also known as “instantaneous” or “on-demand” water heaters, tankless models are available in natural gas, propane and electric — and heat water only when it is needed. Tankless technology does not store hot water, rather it heats the water as it passes through the unit, providing a continuous supply of hot water. These units are much smaller than conventional tanks, which helps to save space. Homeowners will see long-term benefits while saving on energy bills, as energy isn’t wasted on maintaining hot water. Heating water instantaneously requires high energy consumption for a short period of time, so a review of the home’s existing electrical or gas systems to ensure they are compatible with the chosen model is recommended.

Consider energy efficiency and technology features

Energy efficiency and decarbonization: Energy-efficient models employ advanced technologies to minimize energy waste. This provides homeowners with substantial savings on monthly energy bills while also lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, a number of environmentally- and budget-friendly options exist, with many water heaters being ENERGY STAR^® certified, including several options from Rheem^®.

Regulatory changes: The DOE’s new energy efficiency standards for water heaters, effective in 2029, aim to save consumers billions in energy costs. Electric water heaters will shift to heat-pump technology, using less than half the electricity of older models, while gas-burning heaters must also meet higher standards. To maximize savings and ensure compliance with the latest standards, it’s essential to select models that comply with the new regulations. Be sure to check the updated standards and guidelines to make an informed decision.

Technology and innovations in water heating: Innovations such as smart home integration and Wi-Fi connectivity provide greater control over the water heating system and contribute to increased energy efficiency and cost savings. For instance, many Rheem water heaters include features such as EcoNet, hot water availability indicator, vacation mode for energy savings, easy energy usage tracking, and proactive leak detection and prevention.

With a sharp focus on decreasing carbon emissions and reducing energy costs for homeowners, manufacturers such as Rheem are changing the global water heating industry. Homeowners focused on these regulatory and manufacturing changes, as well as the ongoing rebates and incentives being offered, can leverage these trends to increase their comfort with new energy-efficient water heaters. When selecting the ideal water heater, remember to start by fully assessing the home’s hot water needs, then prioritize factors such as comfort and maximizing energy savings. And, finally, research the model’s warranty details to ensure the unit will serve the home for many years to come.

2024-07-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Have a move on the horizon? You may feel overwhelmed. But moving can be the perfect opportunity to declutter and set yourself up for a smooth ride into your new neighborhood.

It’s likely that you want to keep control of how your belongings are packed and moved by taking charge of the move yourself. In fact, many people share this same sentiment — Penske Truck Rental’s Settling In: Consumer Moving Trends Survey found that 57% of people planning a move prefer to rent their own moving truck.

If that sounds like you, here are tips to help you successfully execute your move.

1. Plan ahead

The more you prep, the better. Create a checklist and calendar to stay on track.

Assess what you’re bringing to your new home and start planning for a moving date. Once identified, you’ll need to find a truck that’s best suited for your move. Not sure where to start? Penske offers a “Truck Wizard” which provides customized truck recommendations based on a quick questionnaire. After you identify the perfect size truck, you’re all set to book your truck rental. Many rental companies, like Penske, offer quick and easy bookings, and additional services that will make your move a breeze. You can grab packing supplies, furniture pads, tow dollies and more right from the pick-up location.

Pro tip: Save time on moving day by renting your truck the day before the move.

2. Maximize decluttering

You’ve probably always wanted to declutter, but moving provides the incentive to get it done. Start with areas you use least, like guest rooms. Label boxes “donate,” “trash” and “recycle,” then ask yourself: “Do I want this item enough to pack and move it?” If not, into one of those boxes it goes. Create a room-by-room schedule on your calendar to spread sorting over several days or weeks.

For moving day, create a bag for essentials like toiletries and phone chargers, then pack a toolkit with things you’ll need for setting up your new home, like power strips, towels and trash bags.

Pro tip: Label boxes on tops and sides so they’re easy to see.

3. Don’t miss the details

Moving requires bureaucratic details, including:

• Change of address with the post office, your bank, credit cards, driver’s license, etc.
• Utilities need to be turned off or transferred. Moving to a new town? Research whether current providers can service your new area or if you’ll need to switch.

Pro tip: Many tasks can be performed online. Check provider websites for information.

4. Pack carefully

Pack valuable breakables in bubble wrap or other quality materials. You can recycle cardboard or use coffee filters between everyday dishes and bowls to prevent chips and scratches. Secure dresser drawers and appliance doors with rope and tape.

Pro tip: Take pictures of the back of your TV before disconnecting so you’ll know how to re-wire, and tape remotes to the back.

5. Loading and driving your moving truck

Familiarize yourself with your moving truck, including knowing what fuel it needs. Learn the height and width (clearance) dimensions to avoid mishaps entering narrow drive-thru lanes or driving under low bridges. Consider an extra padlock for lengthy/overnight stops.

Organize heaviest items in an “I” formation, balancing weight evenly, and use tie-downs to prevent sliding. Smaller items and boxes can fit in gaps around heavy items to fill the truck. Keep anything valuable or that you’ll need to access easily in the cab.

A larger vehicle can take time to get used to. Watch your speed and proximity to other vehicles to avoid sudden braking.

Pro tip: Check the weather forecast to know what to expect, and leave extra time if needed. Avoid busy urban areas around holidays like Labor Day.

6. Enjoy the move

Enlist help from friends and family, take breaks and enjoy the experience! Moving to a new place can lead to fun and exciting discoveries, and the chance to make new friends.

7. Explore your new area

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and challenging. Finding ways to connect with your new community can make the transition smoother. The Penske Settling In survey found that certain activities helped movers acclimate to their new neighborhood and build a sense of community. Top activities included: exploring new restaurants and shops, meeting neighbors, discovering new parks and outdoor spaces, plus participating in local events. The majority of people moving to a new neighborhood (72%) found that establishing a consistent routine helped them get used to their new area.

Moving can be a wonderful experience, full of new adventures. Find tips and resources to improve your next move at PenskeTruckRental.com.