James Dulley
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Heat pumps a common alternative to central air conditionersOct 29, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I hear people install a heat pump instead of a furnace and air conditioner even in cold climates. I can't afford a geothermal one. Would a standard air heat pump work...
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Use this formula to calculate your home's energy efficiencyOct 22, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I want to make my house more energy efficient. I am not sure what improvements it needs and I don't want to invest in a professional energy audit. What do I need and ...
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Insulated concrete walls can now be used in home constructionOct 15, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I want to build a house that is very efficient and strong to withstand tornadoes. I prefer one made with concrete because the resource is so abundant. How good are fo...
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Front-loading washers are more energy efficientOct 08, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. Our old clothes washer is leaking, so we need to buy a new one. We have a large family and do a lot of laundry, so efficiency is important. What are the most effi...
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Alternatives to shingles may give longer life to roofOct 01, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I have always had regular asphalt shingles on my houses, but they never last more than about 20 years. This time, I want to install a longer-lasting roof. Other t...
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Small appliances don't always cook for lessSep 24, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. My wife tells me it is more energy efficient to use small cooking appliances instead of the electric range, but I prefer the range. How do I determine how much it cos...
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Retractable awnings provide shade over a deckSep 17, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. We just installed a new two-level deck. We enjoy it, but the afternoon sun is hot and the glare is annoying. What is a good method to shade the deck and also shelter ...
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Water heaters lose efficiency in cold basementSep 10, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. My electric water heater is 18 years old, but still works and makes enough hot water. I want to reduce my water heating costs. What can I do to make my water heat...
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You can find many types of landscape lightingSep 03, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I need some efficient outdoor lighting by my deck and backyard landscaping for security and entertaining. I am not an electrician, so I need something simple to insta...
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Fewer wood studs are used to build homes todayAug 27, 2009 11:00 pm - Q. I plan to build a new house. I know a traditional lumber-framed house is not the most efficient, but I have a cheap source of lumber. What are some tips for building ...