Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 1998-10-21, Page 271 —1 " [HOME IMPROVEMENT] THERE ALWAYS ROOM are often used under siding or on the exterior or interior of basement walls, although they can also be used on interior walls and ceilings before you install new drywall. Natural Resources Canada is a good source of information and free publications about energy- efficient home improvements. Check out NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency (OEE) website at http://eeb-dee.NRCan.gc.ca. You can also order publications by calling 1-800-387-2000 or by writing to Energy Publications, c/o Canada Communication Group, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0S9. - News Canada 70 per cent efficiency. • Direct vent, or DV, fireplaces are typically more energy- efficient. These units have sealed combustion chambers and direct through-the-wall venting for air intake and exhaust, which means that heated indoor airis no longer used for combustion or drawn up the chimney. • Electronic ignition lets you turn on your fire instantly without the expense and bother of a pilot light. If you want to be able to use your fireplace when the electricity is out, choose a unit with pilot light ignition. Make sure that the pilot light can be conveniently shut off when you are not using the fireplace, and that it can be relit safely and easily. A two- stage pilot light is an important energy-saving feature to consider; unlike a standard pilot light, it runs on a low flame when the fireplace is not in use. • Look for a unit with good heat setting control so you can adjust the heat output by regulating the amount of gas going to the burner. This feature, also known as "turndown," enables you to maintain comfort by preventing overheating while still having a flame to view. • Choose a unit that has an output suited to the size and layout of the room where it is to be located. An oversized fireplace with a high heat output will cause overheating and discomfort. • Ceramic glass screen fronts allow more heat from combustion to radiate out into the room and increase energy performance. Think of your new gas fireplace as a long-term investment. Choose UTUMN HOME IMPROVEMENT DAYS General Carpentry • additions • replacement windows • framing • siding • roofing • drywall • taping • trimming Competitive Rates Estimates e Prints /1A•11 Construction aueffiell 2Z,1 523-9354 "For all Your Carpentry Needs carefully for maximum benefits and low operating costs. All About Gas Fireplaces is a free 36-page booklet that tells you everything you need to know about selecting the gas fireplace that is right for your needs. Call Natural Resources Canada at 1-800-387- 2000 for your copy. - News Canada HINOODs an Andersen' company REPLACEMENT WINDOWS & DOORS Let it snow and blow! You'll be ready with... Pro e CUSTOMER SA11 ACTION Beat all that seasons have to offer with: 4 Andersen® Windows and Patio Doors — the proven weather beaters 4 Dashwood Customline- Vinyl Replacement Windows — custom made to fit each opening Classic Entrance Systems — there's a weather beating design to fit your style — your budget Convenience — sales, installation, and service There is a better way to replace your windows and doors. Visit our spacious showroom today and we'll put your mind at ease with our exclusive ProCertified Customer Satisfaction Program. Fre e 1 - 8 0 - 5 2 4 - 6 6 16 DASHWOOD WINDOWS & DOOR CENTRE 482-5816 WINDOW AND DOOR CENTRE WINDOWS D SALES DOORS SERVICE SIDING INSTALLATION 1st Avenue, VANASTRA cLoacilasi. 482-7869 We're with you every step of the way. PROFESSIONAL SALES • SERVICE • INST • LLATION THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY; OCTOBER 21, 1998. PAGE 27. ALERES ALWAYS • ROOM fOlt • • HOME IMPROVEMENT Fall Home Improvements 1998 Tradition, technology meet in new fireplaces (NC)—Gas fireplaces are emerging as a highly sought-after extra in real estate markets throughout Canada. Home buyers everywhere know that gas fireplaces combine the look and feel of a traditional hearth with the convenience, cleanliness, safety and efficiency of today's technology. Gas fireplaces are now better than ever. Units are now available that can be installed in virtually any setting, anywhere in your home. Properly maintained, they offer hours of comfort and pleasure, and can even lower your heating bills. When shopping for a gas fireplace, you'll want to make sure your new unit is as energy-efficient as possible. Base your selection on the following: • High annual fireplace efficiency rating (Canadian Gas Association P.4 rating), look for a unit that operates between 50 per cent and (NC)—When we think of home renovation, we usually think of cosmetic improvements to a home's appearance but renovation also provides opportunities to improve on your home's energy efficiency. The truth is, renovation projects provide an excellent opportunity for "behind the scenes" improvements that will increase your home's comfort and lower energy bills. Upgrading insulation and installing air and vapour barriers are prime examples. When setting out on such a project, it's important to choose the right insulation for long-term energy savings. If you're working with exposed frame walls or in an attic, batt or blanket insulation - a type of insulation made from glass or mineral fibres - may be your best choice. If you are filling irregular or inaccessible spaces, such as enclosed walls or attics, consider a loose fill insulation available in a variety of materials including cellulose fibre, glass fibre, mineral wool and vermiculite. Loose fill insulation must be blown or poured into place and, because improper installation can result in serious problems, you should hire an experienced contractor to do the job. Where space is limited or you want quick coverage of large, flat surfaces, rigid or semi-rigid boards manufactured from glass fibre or foam plastic materials may be the answer. These boards have a high insulating value for their thickness, are lightweight, easy to install and Install Smoke Alarms IT'S THE LAW. The Ontario Fire Code requires that every home have working smoke alarms. Renovate for energy efficiency