SMUD Introduces Time-of-Day Rates
On the Time-of-Day Rate, you pay different rates for electricity based on the season and the time of day that you use it. Rates are lower during off-peak periods because it costs us less to produce or purchase electricity. Rates increase as demand and cost for electricity increase, especially during the summer months. TOD rates help you control your electric bill when you: Shift your electricity...
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Insulation R-Value
As energy efficiency has become an increasing concern among builders and homeowners, the attributes and performance of building materials and components are being scrutinized more closely. In order to maximize levels of efficiency by examining the details of how each individual component of a house performs on its own and as part of a dynamic system, very specific properties are measured and taken into account....
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10 Easy Ways to Save Money & Energy in Your Home
Most people don’t know how easy it is to make their homes run on less energy, and here at Crown Inspections, we want to change that. Drastic reductions in heating, cooling and electricity costs can be accomplished through very simple changes, most of which homeowners can do themselves. Of course, for homeowners who want to take advantage of the most up-to-date knowledge and systems in...
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Protect Your Home From Water Damage
Water may be essential to life, but, as a destructive force, water can diminish the value of your home or building. Homes as well as commercial buildings can suffer water damage that results in increased maintenance costs, a decrease in the value of the property, lowered productivity, and potential liability associated with a decline in indoor air quality. The best way to protect against this...
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Speed Up Your Home Inspection
Speed up your home sale by preparing your home ahead of time using the following tips. Your home inspection will go smoother, with fewer concerns to delay closing. Confirm that that the water, electrical and gas services are turned on (including pilot lights). Make sure your pets won’t hinder your home inspection. Ideally, they should be removed from the premises or secured outside. Tell your...
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Leaks in Your HVAC System and Energy Loss
by Nick Gromicko and Ben Gromicko Many homes are equipped with central forced-air systems that rely on ducts to transport heated or cooled air from the furnace or heat pump to the rest of the home. If the ducts are leaky, this can lead to poor HVAC performance and comfort problems through loss of heated or cooled air, creating a loss of air pressure in the...
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Tools Every Homeowner Should Own
The following items are essential tools, but this list is by no means exhaustive. Feel free to ask an InterNACHI inspector during your next inspection about other tools that you might find useful. 1. Plunger A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most inconvenient household problems that you will face. With a plunger on hand, however, you can usually remedy these plumbing issues...
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Why Get a Home Inspection If You’re Buying “As Is”
Some sellers – often, those working without an agent – want to sell their home “as is” so they don’t have to invest money fixing it up or take on any potential liability for defects. There is nothing wrong with buying a home “as is,” particularly if you can buy it at a favorable price, but if you are considering buying an “as is” home,...
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Home Energy Assessment Basics Explained
Many things can affect the energy performance of homes. An energy audit can identify the factors that contribute to the waste of energy in a home. It can also contribute greatly towards making the home more comfortable for its occupants. This video from the US Department of Energy explains what a home energy checkup is and how it can benefit your household.
Infrared Imaging – More Than Meets The Eye
Infrared thermography is often used to identify and describe common problems in home-performance.The use of thermal imaging and (IR) cameras has been on the rise of late. Let’s join Green Building Advisor as they review the history of (IR) cameras and their real-world applications. Read More at Greenbuildingadvisor.com