Should I replace my windows?

A very common question out there among home owners is how to determine if they need to replace their windows. Many times this question is driven by exposure to massive marketing campaigns aimed at energy efficiency. For example the 2009 stimulus package included a tax credit which at the time of writing expires December 31^st 2010 has prompted many recent advertisements on the subject.

One a side note, for windows to qualify for the energy tax credit they must have a 0.30 U-Factor. A U-factor is a measurement of the windows ability to prevent heat from escaping. The R value is the inverse of this measurement.  In short, the lower the U-factor the greater the R value which is the insulating ability of the window. One should consider that this measurement is based on the window assembly which is determined at the factory. It does not however include the installation of the window, which if poorly done, can eliminate any benefit of a low U-factor.

The campaign for energy efficiency may take the front seat in your process for determining if you want to replace your windows. This is expected when you consider the push by government agencies and window manufactures in this area. One nationally recognized window manufacture says their windows “can help you spend less to the utility company each month” and who wouldn’t like that. But let’s step back and look at where the push to replace your windows is coming from; home improvement stores, windows manufactures, home improvement contractors, and energy efficiency and weatherization companies.

Before you make a decision to replace your windows based on energy efficiency you must consider the product cost, the installation cost, and the window life cycle. In one study by Dr. William Hill, professor of Urban Planning at Ball State University, homes in the state of Indiana that were enrolled in its Energy Conservation Financial Assistance Program indicated replacement windows yield about an annual fuel savings of 1.4%.  However the average replacement cost was $3,350. Taking in account the life cycle of the windows, which can range from 10 years to 30 years depending on sources, the payback period for the windows is approximately 400 years. Based on energy efficiency alone replacement does not produce overall savings.

If energy efficiency is your main concern then upgrades to your building’s insulation and weatherization of your windows with storm windows or caulking will yield greater savings.

The choice to replace windows should be based solely on the following criteria:

• Windows are damaged and inoperative.
•  Personal taste.

The first may be avoided. Almost all wood windows can be repaired at a significantly lower cost than replacement. Vinyl and aluminum windows can also be repaired in varying degrees. If a contractor claims they cannot be repaired get a second opinion. The criterion of personal taste maybe satisfied by paint, stains, changing hardware, or different window treatments.

What I would like you to take away from this is the fact that energy efficiency rarely, if ever make sense as a decider for window replacement. Make sure you do your homework before choosing to tear out your existing windows.  

Extension Cord Safety

From Christmas lights to the family computer many of us use extension cords daily without a thought. They provide many conveniences around the home. However they can also be your worst nightmare when they are abused. Problem is that many of us do not know what this abuse is.

Over the years extension cords have resulted and many injuries and fatalities. It’s estimated that each year about 4,000 people are hurt by these modern amenities according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSO). They have resulted in trip hazards, shocks, and fires. Many children have been seriously hurt or killed by placing the end of an extension cord in their mouth while it was plugged into an outlet. As a result the National Electrical Code (NEC) and voluntary industry safety standards like the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) have made changes to enhance extension cord safety.  You may have noticed these days your general use extension cords are made of heavier wire (#16 gauge wires) and have permanent safety enclosures over the female end of the cord.

Still human error cannot be removed. It is important to use extension cords properly, especially in older homes that have limited outlets. Some basic safety tips include; never using indoor cords outside, never using a cord longer than required, not overloading and cord, and reading the manufacturer’s instructions.

The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has some of the following safety instructions:

• Look for the UL Mark on extension cords you purchase. The UL Mark means that representative samples of the cord have been tested for foreseeable safety hazards.
• Store all cords indoors when not in use. Outdoor conditions can deteriorate a cord over time.
• Never keep an extension cord plugged in when not in use. The cord will still conduct electricity until it is unplugged from the outlet.
• Make sure to use the covers for any of the cord’s outlets that are not being used. Children and pets face serious injury if they chew on unused outlets or stick sharp metal objects into the openings.
• Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged. Touching even a single exposed strand of wire can give you an electric shock or burn.
• Never file or cut the plug blades or grounding pin of an extension cord or appliance to plug it into an old outlet.
• As a safety feature, extension cords and most appliances have polarized plugs (one blade wider than the other). These special plugs are designed to prevent electric shock by properly aligning circuit conductors. If a plug does not fit, have a qualified electrician install a new outlet.

If you follow recommended safety tips and common sense you can avoid costly damage to your home and the well being of your family and friends.

Where's the shut off valve??

Imagine this, you are enjoying an evening with the family watching your favorite television show when the unmistakable sound of running water interrupts your thoughts. Natural instinct maybe to run towards the source of the leak then panic as to how to stop the water. Most people seldom think about where their house shut off valve is. This is a very important thing to know and if you purchased a new home your professional Home Inspector should point out its location.

However knowing its location and being able to get to it are two different things. How many of us have the water shut off in the basement under steps, behind boxes, or even behind access panels that need tools to open. Get to know where the shut off is and keep the access clear. If you can have it moved, move it to a more convenient location. One anyone can get to that does not require crawling and ladders to gain access of.
Another thing to consider is the type of valve you have. Most homes will have a ball type valve or a gate type valve. Most older homes will have the latter. To tell the difference the ball valve will typical have a single handle that turns perpendicular to the pipe when its closed.  This is the preferred valve to have because of its ease of use. A gate valve will have a round handle that you turn; usually red or blue in color. This valve is harder to shut off quickly.

A last thought is that just like your body; valves need exercise. When a valve is never operated sediment and corrosion will freeze the valve in place. This is more common with gate type valves. You should operate your valve every 6 months to prevent this from happening. If you try to operate your house shut off valve and find it difficult to move with moderate force then have it replaced by a professional. Use this time to have it moved to a more accessible location if need be. Never force a valve! Also be forewarned that operating gate valves can loosen the packing nut (the nut located directly below the handle) and cause the valve to weep. This can be tightened using an adjustable wrench with light force.

If you ever have doubts or questions about your house shut off valve you can always consult with a professional plumber.