In the midwest, folks have too much humidity and use de-humidifiers. In Colorado we need to put more moisture in the air. Room humidifiers are inexpensive, but require constant filling and underscore the adage “you get what you pay for”.

Whole house humidification is the best solution and Honeywell has a new innovative product called the TrueSTEAM™ Humidification System. It’s much more efficient, cleaner and environmentally friendlier than previous whole-house humidification systems.

Honeywell Truesteam Humidification System

Whole-house systems are rated based on gallons-per-day of moisture delivery. For example, 1:3 means 1 gallon of moisture delivered for each 3 gallons of water used. Typically, the ratings assume a home’s heating equipment is running 100 percent of the time. No equipment runs full-time, so they rarely deliver what they claim. Plus, for every 1 gallon of water that is evaporated, 3 gallons go down the drain.

Honeywell’s TrueSTEAM™ Humidification System works independent of your heating and cooling system, so your home gets the exact amount of moisture it needs, when it needs it. It’s delivery rate is nearly 1:1.

Other humidifiers rely on moisture-filled pads that can be susceptible to bacteria growth in the water and airstream. TrueSTEAM does not use pads, but delivers “true” steam, the cleanest form of humidification. The water tank requires minimal maintenance. Just clean it once a year with soap and water, and the rest of the time it cleans itself automatically.

The optimal range for annual indoor relative humidity (RH) is between 35 and 55 percent. Humidified air feels warmer, so by delivering moisture when you need it (not just when the furnace is running), you’ll keep your home and family more comfortable, while reducing heating bills.

Click on the picture or link above for more technical data -OR- give us a call at Lakewood Plumbing 303.233.7007, use this form to email us -or- visit our website.

Q95M-200 Hot Water Boiler by Dunkirk

The current tax stimulus plan call for 30% tax credit, up to $1,500, for consumer’s who install energy efficient tank or tankless water heaters, furnaces and boilers in 2009 or 2010. If you qualify, you get a credit against the tax you owe, not just a deduction from income.

In typical fashion for anything tax related, you have to dig into the details to be sure you get the tax credit. Most of the products Lakewood Plumbing carries will qualify. We’ll let you know your options, but don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Here are some popular products we’ve been installing that qualify: Dunkirk Q95 modulating water boilers, American Standard 95% 2-stage variable speed furnaces and Rinnai tankless water heaters.

Additionally, Lakewood Plumbing has been qualified by XCEL Energy to participate in its rebate program. Our customers get another $100 to $200 on qualified equipment we install in their home.

You can check out all the tax credit details at the Energy Star website. Here are some highlights from that site:

• The product must be placed in service from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.
• Must be for taxpayer’s existing principal residence (some geothermal and solar products placed in second homes qualify);
• $1,500 is the maximum total amount that can be claimed for all products placed in service in 2009 & 2010 (for most home improvements). However, married people filing separately can both claim the $1,500 tax credit, as long as both claim separate expenses.

There’s lots more so check the website, ask questions or give us a call.

Seems like there’s never been a better time to replace old or inefficient water heaters and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) equipment. Besides the Federal tax and XCEL credits, it’s good for the environment and will lower your energy bills.

The show has over 300 company exhibitors. Whether you’re ready to tackle a remodeling project or just need ideas, you’ll find plenty of options and answers.

Stop by the Lakewood Plumbing booth and find out about energy efficiency tax credits available with a new furnace, boiler or water heater.

Call our office – 303.233.7007 if you need tickets.

Lakewood Plumbing will be there and we’ll have air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, water filtration units, humidifiers and tankless water heaters on display.
This is a great time to take advantage of big money-saving incentives including:

• Garden and Home Show specials – equipment and service discounts;
• Energy efficiency tax credits – yes, credits, not just deductions;
• Xcel Energy rebates.

Speaking of tax credits, we’ll write more about that in another blog. It can be a bit complicated. You have to know what equipment qualifies and what the rules are. The credit can reduce your taxes or increase your refund by as much as $1500. Stop by our booth and we’ll explain the details.

Another good reason to visit the Lakewood Plumbing booth is to talk to our experts about fall and winter maintenance. A professional furnace checkup is just good common sense. It’s inexpensive and can save you money by preventing serious problems later on. Best of all, it means you and your family will be safe and comfortable this winter.

We have free passes available. Just call our office at 303-233-7007 to request your tickets. The cost to get in the Garden and Home Show is $12 per adult at the door.

There’ll be educational seminars, how-to clinics and food service. Click on  frequently asked questions to learn more about the Garden & Home Show. That page has other links to schedules, maps, exhibitor list and more.

Please stop by the Lakewood Plumbing booth to chat about your heating, cooling or plumbing needs, energy tax credits or to just say hi.

We have designed this portion of our website to offer you free tips to protect your home comfort system investments, and prolong the life of your equipment.

Maintaining Your Cooling System

• Filter: Change Your furnace filter once a month during the cooling season.
• Annual Tune-Up: Schedule an annual tune-up. It is important to have your air conditioning system inspected by a service technician. An annual tune-up can reduce your cooling costs by five percent
• Ductwork: Have your ductwork professionally cleaned every three – four years
• Leaks?: Check all hose connections for leaks, and make sure the condensate tube is draining freely