James Dulley
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Fireplace tips to reduce smoke entering your homeOct 06, 2013 12:39 am - Q. We had many trees taken down due to ash borers, so I plan to use my fireplace more this fall and winter. I have never had much luck building fires without smoking up ...
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Tips on balancing room temperaturesAug 04, 2013 12:42 am - Q. We have central air-conditioning, but have a problem keeping all the rooms evenly cool. Someone is always too hot or too cool. What are some simple methods to balance...
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Window film improves climate efficiencyJul 07, 2013 12:09 am - Q. My single-pane windows are still good, but much heat comes in during summer and it’s chilly near them during winter. Would installing one of the newer year-round or h...
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Air conditioner tips to reduce electric billsJun 09, 2013 5:38 am - Q. I am trying to run my central air conditioner less to save electricity. Would using a portable air conditioner use less electricity? Does one have to be vented outdoo...
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Is a net zero energy home worth the cost?Apr 07, 2013 4:19 am - Q. We are planning our energy-efficient dream home. We have heard about “net zero energy” designs. Are they as livable as regular efficient houses, do they look strange ...
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Water-saving toilets will eventually pay for themselvesMar 03, 2013 4:21 am - Q. Our old master bathroom toilet does not flush well and we are thinking about adding a first-floor half bath. What are the best types of toilets to get for each room a...
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How to insulate your attic access openingFeb 03, 2013 4:01 am - Q. I just moved into a new house and I went up into the attic to store some holiday decorations. There was no insulation on the access cover or seals around it. Shouldn’...
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How to make a build-it-yourself solar heaterJan 06, 2013 4:43 am - Q. I would like to use some free solar heating in a south-facing kitchen. I cannot afford to have a system installed professionally. What type of simple solar heater can...
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Zone control systems adjust ducts, room temperaturesDec 02, 2012 4:18 am - Q. Some rooms in our house are too hot or too cold and someone is always complaining. What can we do to even out the room temperatures to keep everyone happy. Will doing...
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What to do about a noisy bathroom vent fanNov 04, 2012 5:52 am - Q. Our bathroom vent fan has been getting noisier for years, so I want to install a new quiet one. How can I tell which are most quiet? Is it more energy efficient to ru...