Just bought an electric fire - is it cheaper than running a gas fire?

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Q. Hi, I've just bought one of those "modern" black glass wall mounted electric fires. It is a compromise with my husband and we thought if we went for this one, it would look very nice and as it sits on the wall it does away with the need for the whole fireplace surround/mantlepiece. You can run it just on the flame effect for as cheap as a lamp but I wondered if you had it on for heat too, would it be more expensive to run than a gas fire?
I live in the UK by the way !

Answer
it would be cheaper to run the way gas prices are going your better off getting electric i think you made the right decision.

How much does it cost to Build a woodburning fireplace?

choirgirl3

We found the perfect home -but it does not have the woodburning fireplace that I've always wanted. Gas, electric will not do. There is a florida room in the back of the home... brick masonry foundation and windows. I figured I knock a hole in it and install a woodburner. Feasible? If so, how much should I budget for it? Who should I get to do the work for me, what kind of professional?

Answer
I am a general contractor in California. A pot bellied wood burning stove installed in your average 2000 sq. ft. house in CA wood be about $3,000.00. A real brick fireplace would start at $10,000.00 and go up from there. These are CA prices I don't know Florida prices. A general contractor preferably to get the job done, because they will take into consideration anything else that you might need to change to accommodate your new fireplace. A masonry contractor will only do what his trade entails.

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How do i make an ugly corner fireplace pretty? It has old brown, dull tiles. Can somebody please help??

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ganjaman41

If i planned on living here for a number of years, i would just redo them, but we plan on purchasing a house in two years, so i really just want something to quick fix, if its even possible. I will be using the wood fireplace, as it will be cheaper than electric. I need something that won't catch on fire or melt all over the place. Any opinions, and you are a genious! Thank you!

Answer
The cheap way which sounds like your best bet since you planning moving soon, and this is if you wont rid of brown tiles is to use sand paper to rough up the tile and then chose an exterior paint your chose of color to paint over them.

another option would be too, use sand paper and rough up the tile and try to stucco over them, and I would recommend using thinset which is the under layment for tile. very nice looking, and durable.

the other option which is more expensive, but do it your self is to knock off the old tile and lay new, which is not hard, obvisouly you have the internet and you can get step by step instructions. this is my pick, your cost would be 80 give or take.

Thinking of buying an electric fireplace?

Q. who has one and how did you decide on the right one?

Answer
I got one last year at Costco's. I had wanted a fireplace for a long time but since a real one was out of the question I got an electric one. It also has a heater in it that blows out hot air. It was a good price and I didn't have to buy the mantel piece seprately(like I would have had to if I went to Lowe's)the whole thing came together. Its a nice cherrywood and it looks good with my x-mas stockings hanging on it. I like the look of cherrywood but they come in white, black and even have onesthat will fit in the corner. Think about where it will go first and then try to picture it. Also Costcos has a lifetime warranty on all non computor items.

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Where is the best place to find used mobile homes for sale on the web?

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whatthehec

Thinking about buying a mobile home, (SE Oklahoma) much cheaper than a house. From looking on the internet I am having a very hard time, when I put something in the search, it brings up all kinds of web sites and none of them are what I am looking for. Any help. Also do the mobile homes, haver real fireplaces or are they electric?

Answer
craigslist ( http://www.craigslist.org ) -- if you're unfamiliar with it, follow the link, find your state, then select your city. If your city's unavailable, select the closest one. Once there, find the section labeled housing, and follow the link labeled "real estate for sale". You can sift through manually, but they may be difficult to find so try running multiple searches once you get there in the search bar at the top. Search for 'mobile', then 'single wide' (or 'double wide' if you're looking for one of those) and 'trailer'. [note: "mobile" will return some results that are way off because it also hits on mobile phone, but eh].

mhvillage - http://www.mhvillage.com is also a good place to run a search.

If your local paper has a website, and posts their classifieds online, you may also want to poke around in there.

Approximate cost to convert garge to small house?

YahooDeana

Assuming the city approves it, this is a 2 car detached garage approx 50 feet from the house.
I want to put in a 3/4 bath and small kitchen (electric stove). There's lights in the garage but no heat. I assume electric heat is easiest to use.

Answer
Well if you are going to pay someone it could cost quite a bit of money, but doing it yourself you can make a damn nice one for around 10k. Built one for a mother in law suite in the end it was about 10k but bare in mind this was decked out with premium appliances crown molding and a fireplace. If you want a simple thing it would cost around 5k if you do the work yourself. But you have to be smart about it, plan it for a year and start buying what you need when they go on sale.

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Options for Attractive Space Heating - Preferably Gas!?

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ktclick209

We are remodeling our house and I'm trying to figure out an attractive alternative to the very ugly gas space heater in our living room. We live in northern New York where our home needs to be heated to some extent about eight months out of the year.

During the winter, we will be using a wood boiler, but during the fall and spring months, we need an alternative to heat our living space. The vent-free gas heater has been convenient and cozy, but it's so ugly!

I've been looking into the gas "fireplaces" but the ones I've seen take up too much space for our 288 square foot room.

My husband seems to think an oil-filled radiator would be expensive to run (electric) so we want to stick to gas-powered.

I'd love whatever we get to be able to fit into the decor of our living room. Any ideas?

Answer
try looking in Lowes or Home Depot or Menards for heating ideas.

winter decorations????????????????????????????

Q. what is the symbolism or history behind christmas trees, stars, candy canes, menorahs, and other holiday decorations

please answer for more ht an just christmas if your aware

can you write your religion just curious

Answer
Christmas Tree Facts
Christmas trees have been sold commercially in the United States since about 1850.
Until fairly recently, all Christmas trees came from the forest.
In 2002, Oregon, North Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Washington, New York, and Virginia were the top Christmas tree producing states. Oregon was the leading producer of Christmas trees â 6.5 million in 2002.
The best selling trees are Scotch pine, Douglas fir, Noble fir, Fraser fir, Virginia pine, balsam fir and white pine.
More than 2,000 trees are usually planted per acre. On an average 1,000-1,500 of these trees will survive. In the North, maybe, 750 trees will remain. Almost all trees require shearing to attain the Christmas tree shape. At six to seven feet, trees are ready for harvest. It takes six to ten years of fighting heavy rain, wind, hail and drought to get a mature tree.
In the United States, there are more than 21, 000 Christmas tree growers.
In the United States, there are around a half billion Real Christmas Trees growing on U.S. farms.
In the United States, there are more than 12,000 cut-your-own farms.
In 1979, the National Christmas Tree was not lighted except for the top ornament. This was done in honor of the American hostages in Iran.
From 1887-1933 a fishing schooner called the "Christmas Ship" would tie up at the Clark Street Bridge in Chicago and sell spruce trees from Michigan to Chicagoans.
The tradition of an official Chicago Christmas tree was initiated in 1913 when one was first lit by Mayor Carter H. Harrison in Grant Park.
Since 1966, the National Christmas Tree Association has given a Christmas tree to the President and first family.
The first decorated Christmas tree was in Riga, Latvia in 1510.
Growing Christmas trees provides a habitat for wildlife.
Recycled trees have been used to make sand and soil erosion barriers and been placed in ponds for fish shelter.
The first Christmas tree retail lot in the United States was started in 1851 in New York by Mark Carr.
Christmas trees take an average of 7-10 years to mature.
Christmas trees remove dust and pollen from the air.
Since 1971, the Province of Nova Scotia has presented the Boston Christmas Tree tree to the people of Boston in gratitude for the relief supplies received from the citizens of Boston after a ship exploded in 1917 following a collision in the Halifax, Nova Scotia Harbor. Part of the city was leveled killing injuring thousands.
The use of evergreen trees to celebrate the winter season occurred before the birth of Christ.
Christmas trees are grown in all 50 states including Hawaii and Alaska.
100,000 people are employed in the Christmas tree industry.
98 percent of all Christmas trees are grown on farms.
In 1856 Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, was the first President to place a Christmas tree in the White House.
President Coolidge started the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on the White House lawn in 1923.
In 2002, 21% of United States households had a real tree, 48% had an artificial tree and 32% had not tree.
73 million new Christmas trees will be planted this year.
On average, over 2,000 Christmas trees are planted per acre.
You should not burn your Christmas tree in the fireplace; it can contribute to creosote buildup.
Other types of trees such as cherry and hawthorns were used as Christmas trees in the past.
Artificial trees will last for six years in your home, but for centuries in a landfill.
There are over 500 Christmas tree growers in Illinois.
In 2002, over 144,000 real trees were harvested in Illinois.
Using small candles to light a Christmas tree dates back to the middle of the 17th century.
Nineteenth century Americans cut their trees in nearby forests.
Thomas Edisonâs assistant, Edward Johnson, came up with the idea of electric lights for Christmas trees in 1882.
Christmas tree lights were first mass produced in 1890.
In 1963, the National Christmas Tree was not lighted until December 22nd because of a national 30-day period of mourning following the assassination of President Kennedy.
Teddy Roosevelt banned the Christmas tree from the White House for environmental reasons.
In the first week, a tree in your home will consume as much as a quart of water per day.
Michigan ranks third (2.4 million trees in 2002) among all states in the production of real Christmas trees, but grows a larger variety (13) of Christmas trees than any other state.
A Christmas tree decoration was banned by the government. Tinsel contained lead at one time, now itâs made of plastic.
Real Christmas trees are involved in less than one-tenth of one percent of residential fires and only when ignited by some external ignition sources.
In 1998 more than 32 million Real Christmas Trees were used in the U.S. Of these, only 0.00093% were ignited in home fires.
~
The candy cane begins with a stick of white candy. The white symbolizes the purity of the Christmas season. Red stripes are for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we may have eternal life. The candy cane is formed into a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus. It can also represent the staff of the Good Shepherd. Its hard consistency represents the Solid Rock, the foundation of the church, and the firmness of the promises of God. (Candy cane legend card included)
~
According to early legend, bells rang throughout the world announcing the birth of Christ. The ringing of bells during the joyous holiday season still adds delightful accompaniment to favorite carols and is a significant part of the Christmas celebration. High in their towers, suspended between heaven and earth, church bells have called the faithful to worship for centuries.
~
In the Polish tradition of celebrating Christmas, the star has special significance. On Christmas Eve the first star of the night is named Gwiazda or âlittle starâ in remembrance of the Star of Bethlehem. At the moment it appears, greetings and good wishes are exchanged. Families then partake of the Christmas supper, Wigilia, the most carefully planned meal of the year.
~
The apple played an important role in traditional European Christmas Eve celebrations. Following dinner, the head of the family would slice an apple crosswise. If there was the image of a perfect star inside and the seeds were plump, it was believed that a peaceful year of good fortune and health awaited the family. Each member of the family then ate a piece of the apple. Symbol of the Apple card included.
~
According to Alpine folklore, suitors proved their love by climbing high crags of the Alps in search of the flower. Tragically, many suitors fell to their death or died of exposure to the weather. The Edelweiss is still worn today as a symbol of love, bravery, strength, and dedication. Its popularity with German and Austrian emperors earned the edelweiss the title, âFlower of Emperors and Kings.â
~
Christmas Symbols
The Origin of Different Symbols of Christmas

Home > Holidays > Christmas > Christmas Symbols
Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th of each year. It is the day Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The word "Christmas" means "Christ's Mass" - derived from the English term "Christes masse". There are many different customs and traditions around the world. American customs come from many places. Santa Claus has a Dutch origin. He was developed from St. Nicholas who was a real person. St. Nicholas, was the patron saint of school boys. He brought gifts to the children. The idea that Santa Claus comes down the chimney originated in Norway, where children hang Christmas stockings on the fireplace mantel. Christmas trees have pagan origins. When pagans became Christian, they used evergreens (a sacred tree) for the holiday by decorating them with nuts and candles. They sang Christmas carols as they danced around the Christmas tree.

Christmas colors are red and green. Today, traditional Christmas activities include caroling, making and giving gifts, sending cards to family and friends, and enjoying festive dinners and parties. Below are symbols of Christmas and their significance.

Advent Wreath
Four candles placed on a wreath. One candle is lit each Sunday before Christmas in anticipation of Christ's birthday.
Angel
An angel told the shepherds of the birth of Jesus. Angels come in many forms for Christmas decorations including the tree topper.
Bells
Church bells rang to announce the birth of Jesus. They still ring today.
Camels
Camels are the animals the wisemen rode following the star to where Jesus was born.
Candles
Candles represent the light that Jesus brought to earth. Pagans who converted to Christianity used candles on the sacred evergreen tree.
Christmas Cards
For many years, private notes of good tidings were sent at Christmas time. In 1843, Sir Henry Cole had 1000 special designed cards printed. The custom of sending Christmas cards began.
Christmas Caroling
Caroling is a medieval custom of singing and dancing around a Christmas tree. Early carols weren't holy enough for singing inside a church, so caroling was done outside.
Christmas Cookies
Originated with pre-Christian Romans who gave sweet cakes to their senators.
Christmas Seals
A Danish postal clerk sold Christmas stamps (Christmas seals) to show that users had given to a worthy cause.
Christmas Stocking
There is a legend associated with the origin of Christmas stockings. St. Nick, who wanted to remain anonymous and help a poor family, threw gold coins down their chimney. They fell into a stocking that was hanging there to dry.
Christmas Tree Lights
The lights represent Christ as being the "Light of the World." Lights also represent stars. Candles were first used as lights on the Christmas tree.
Creche

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Simple ways to make an apartment a home?

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Allie

Tips and links would be much appreciated! If you have any personal experiences or ideas about how to make an apartment feel less temporary and more like a home I would love to hear it. I have some ideas but I've been feeling blocked. I spent the last few months wanting to move so badly. I gave up on making anything exactly the way I want it because I figured what's the point if we'll be moving eventually anyway? I want to love where I live so much I will be able to bring that warmth with me when we do eventually move. Even if we do move I won't feel any different if I can't be thankful for what I have now.

Answer
The absolute cheapest way to make an apartment feel like a home is too paint the walls. You'll have to get the landlords permission though. Yes, I was told to only use light colors. :( But I soon found out that light colors make for an interesting backdrop for many different decorating styles. I found out from using light wall colors that I actually love Shabby Chic, and French Provencal Styles. Remember paint is cheap so who cares if you can't take it with you, so focus on what can be taken with you. Curtains, furnishings, etc. I hated the light fixtures that were here. I changed most of them out, to my styles but kept the old ones stored in the basement, because when I move, I can re install the ugly ones and take mine with me. Just kill the power at the fuse box to avoid giving yourself a shock. Install the new fixture during the daytime as like I said power will be shut off till you do the switch out. Don't just turn the lightswitch at the wall off, cause some of the older buildings have the light fixture wires hardwired into the electrical sockets on the walls. So from personal experience if you don't want a shock turn the fuse panel off. (Pull the fuses). Like I said think about furnishings as your color sources to make it feel homey. Cushions are a good example, curtains, even shower curtains, (and yes you can install them to hide shower doors as well). If you feel the need to give the extra touch to wall treatments and have the landlords permission then you can use borders on walls and you could stencil. Some landlords will let you wallpaper as well as long as it's removed when your ready to move out. However, the wallpaper can't be taken with you. Also even if it's a rental who's to say you can't accessorize the outside area as well. I have a porch and I have put a wicker rattan bench out there, with some wicker tables and some nice potted plants. I asked the landlord about a small garden to which he said yes as long as it was on my side. I found out a garden was impossible bc of an existing foundation that was left behind from an old building. So I thought about it and bought the kit for a raised garden bed. At homedepot in the states and filled it with my own ground to plant flowers. (Again the raised garden bed can come with me when I move all I have to do is disassemble the wood pieces and take it with me). Yes the ground gets left behind but who cares, its just ground. The plants can be dug up and replanted when I move as well. (Because it's all temporary). So have fun decorating and making your space feel like a home. Another way if you like fireplaces, buy an electric one and you can place it in whatever room you want and take it with you as well. Or even the electric woodstoves.

How to save on electric bill?

Future Die

My husband and I moved into a house that is all electric. Our old house had gas heat. So far, we HATE electric heat! It doesn't heat the house very well at all. The temp at night has been in the 40's and the heat seems to always run!

We have shut off the vents in the upstairs, because no one is ever up there. The heat is set on 65. What else can we do to save on our electric bill?

Answer
Insulate your attic and basement

Maintain glazing in window panes and caulk around windows to prevent air leaks. Use weather stripping where needed.

Use the damper in your fireplace

Weatherstrip around doors.

Install insulated drapery on your windows. Open drapes in the morning to let the sun in. Close when the sun goes down to keep the warmth inside.

Unplug all electronic chargers when not in use.

Use Smart Strips on all electronic equipment. This is a multi outlet devise you plug a bunch of things into and turn the strip off to cut off the current to all those electronics that are drawing electricity even when not turned on.

Use a Smart Strip in your kitchen for your microwave and small appliances. Turn it off after every meal.

Change all light bulbs to Compact Florescent Lights.

Wash only full loads of clothing in cold water. Do several loads in a row so you take advantage of the warm dryer.

Take shorter showers.

Is your dryer vent air tight?

Are all storm windows down?

I turn my heat down to 60 degrees at night and sleep under a cozy down filled duvet. It is heavenly.

I turn my heat down to 60 degrees when I leave the house.

Watch television in the dark at night.

Moist air keeps a house warmer than dry air. Add humidity to your home in the winter time.

If you are using your oven tonight, bake the potatoes for tomorrow night's dinner. A toaster oven uses less electricity than a conventional oven and I am a convert since a friend cooked some really delicious meals in that toaster oven of his. I now believe in toaster ovens.

Do not be fooled into thinking you are saving money on your electricity bill if you run appliances in the evening. The fact of the matter is that, yes, electricity is being saved, but the savings is only for the electricity company. Your electric bill is one flat rate per usage and it does not change rates according to the time of day you use your electricity. This is a common misconception most people are lead to believe, when, in fact you pay the same rate morning, noon and night.
Yeah, it is wise to use appliances on off peak hours, but it saves you not one dime on your bill.

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Gel burning fireplace inserts?

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tbirdclass

I have a fake fireplace made of what seems like a hard plastic and want to put a ventless gel burning insert inside, is this possible without danger? Are they insulated?

Answer
not really usefull, totally for looks and way over priced. Keep in mind they are not meant to burn for long periods of time and in given circumstances may be a fire hazard.
If you have gas hook up you might try looking into gas ventless- they actually produce heat and look ok, are insulated, and totally safe when professionally installed.
Even electric fireplaces are more uselfull- although more costly to run - they do actually produce heat and look nicer.

Any one out there ever buy an electric fireplace?

Atsa me At

for your home? Not an insert. Which did you buy? I would like to get one that has a large open face so I can see more of the flame..a no headache one...seems everything you buy anymore, if you don't know the correct questions to ask the sellers, they don't go out of their way to warn you of potential problems/hazards, well of course not they want to sell their items...thank you.

Answer
I wouldnt buy an electric if your looking for heat. They are stictly for looks. Sales guys will tell you "OH and it does 3000 or 5000 BTU" If you have a $30 space heater from Target that sits under your kitchen table, then you know how much heat that is. That will heat your bathroom after some time and thats it. All they put in them is a cheap little space heater. If your looking for something large to view Lennox makes the best one on the market but they charge for it. You will spend $2-3000 just for the fireplace and with 220v it will do 10,000BTU with 110v it just does 5000btu. But at that price I would just go for gas or wood, because you still have to purchase a full surround mantel. It def. looks the best out of all though because it doesnt use just standard lights. Other wise all the other brand are just cheap little boxes with lights in them with a 20 dollar space heater. Heat Surge claims to be Amish, but when purchased look on the back and you will see MADE IN CHINA, it's all chip board, Amish don't use chip board, so if the sticker is missing thats proof rite there.
I just recommend pick the one you think look the best, just don't plan on purchasing it for heat. And I would not leave the heater on for long times. Leaving just the fireplace on is just a 60W. bulb but with the heater at the same time you have about 1500w an hour

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Best way to build a fireplace against a brick wall?

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Brielle

One of our walls in out living room is brick and we would like to have a fireplace there. How would you suggest building one? It has a gas pipe hookup but we are also looking at electric ones. My husband can lay bricks, tile, stone, whatever. He can also make a mantel. We would really appreciate any tips or suggestions!

Answer
visit a hearth store, they have many options for vent free gas fireplaces, since you already have the line there its your best option, you can buy them with the mantel or without, if its a zero clearance model it will only produce heat out of the front and so the brick is a moot point. i recently installed one in my living room and constructed my own mantel for it, took me about 20 minutes to install and alother 30 to build the mantel, very easy

Should I tell the construction company from now that i wanna have a fireplace in my still-unbuilt villa ?

Stratomans

the villa is not built yet.. can i build a fireplace later, after the villa is finished? or should i tell the construction company now, so they can build a proper place for it?

Answer
Change orders are more expensive, but easier to do now if you want a wood burning or gas fireplace. You need a chimney with proper brick insulation, etc. There are also some beautiful ELECTRIC fireplaces that are mantles that fit flush against the wall that have electric logs that glow. You could add those anytime. See RCI Wood Products / Rustic Crafts. www.RCIWoodProducts.com 570-253-7233. I've done the research!!! These are the most affordable carved, exquisite pieces, albeit there are a few dinky ones for less. Also many stone ones that are $$$

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Which is better Gas Heat or Electric Heat Pump In Ohio?

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Chadwick79

I'm building a new home in Ohio. When it came down to choosing gas or electric heat I chose electric, because I thought that with gas prices on the rise the cost would be less or around the same. I also wanted to keep everything on one bill and do level billing to budget better. Plus it was 4000 to hook up the house for gas. I'm now wondering if I made a mistake.

Answer
There are ways to check the cost of heating a home with gas vs heating a home with electricity in your area. You can check with the local utility to get those costs. As for electric heat pumps, you will not feel as warm as you would with gas heat because heat pumps just do not heat the same way a gas furnace heats. When the others who said you should have chosen gas because you could still heat your home if the electricity goes out....well, we have ALWAYS heated with gas and I'll tell you what......if your electricity goes off, your gas heat does not work BECAUSE it has to have POWER (electricity) to run the furnace itself. The furnace doesn't work without electricity to force the heat through the house!! You can, however, heat your home with a gas fireplace providing you're able to light the fireplace without an electronic ignition (you use matches)...just as you would your gas cook top if you want to cook. So, there are advantages to having natural gas available but as for the heating, you still have to have electricity to heat your home whether you use electricity or gas as fuel. The main thing you will notice, if the cost of using either is the same, is how warm you feel (or in your case, do NOT feel) with the heat from a heat pump. That's the main difference besides possible cost differences.

Which is more efficient--a gas or electric fireplace?

Carole B

We recently purchased a new home and the basement is quite cool as the heat rises. We want to purchase a fireplace/mantel package but we're not sure which way is best. It would be simpler to purchase an electric one, but would gas be better in the long run? Which is going to heat the basement more efficiently? It's approximately 1700 sq. ft. and we already have a gas furnace. Any suggestions?
C.B.

Answer
It all depends on how much electricity or gas cost in your area.

Advantage of electric is you do not need a vent vs gas which needs an exhaust to dispose of the burned gas.

Advantage of gas is you still have a fireplace when there is a storm and power goes out, but you can always buy a portable kerosene heater.

I found this article which will help you decide.

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/gas-vs-electric-vs-wood-burning-fireplaces.html

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Suggestions to save on electric bill?

electric fireplace 400 sq ft image

Brandee

Anyone will better understanding would be greatly appreciated; my husband and I live in a entirely electric (no gas) home, and I'm trying to find ways to cut down on our electric bill. We cannot, at this time, afford new appliances, and obviously we cannot unplug some of our appliances when not used (deep freezer, refrigerator). I try to limit the amount of laundry we do, but don't know some things- would it be more efficient to primarily use toaster oven and microwave vs. oven (of course, depending on amount of time), or turn off computer (I've been told it takes more power to stat and stop than let run idle), unplug small appliances (cable boxes and alarm clocks) that have a constant display time, etc...

We try to keep the temp at a regular not adjusting if possible (1200 sq. ft, 2 bed, but last month's bill of $400 is pushing our budget limits.
Any ideas?

Answer
Older model freezers use up LOTS of electricity.
Could you do away with the need for it and use your refrigerator's freezer?
That would save a lot.
Also, your computer should have a power-saving setting when not in use.
Small appliances like clocks and such don't really use that much power.
Your furnace and water heater use the most.
Try turning down the thermostats and bundling up.
If no one is home during the day for say, 8hrs, turn the furnace thermostat
all the way down,
but if your just going shopping or something,
just turn it down slightly.
Otherwise it will have to run longer to get the temperature back up to "comfortable."
Use your fireplace if you have one.
Also, check your insulation and weatherstripping around the house.
Thick drapes over your windows will keep a lot of the cold from coming in the house.
Best of luck.

how do you heat your house in winter?

Q. I am just curious as to how others are heating their house during the winter months. We are looking to reduce our propane bill it just seems that every option we choose ends up being about the same cost without investing $10,000 for geothermal (after rebates). We just installed a 91% efficient furnace last year so our furnace is good to go. We also have a free standing wood stove that we use on occasion. The wood stove is old and we don't trust it while we are sleeping or away for very long. Last year we used about 700 gallons LP and burned probably 1/2 cord of wood. We have a single level 1500 sq. ft. house. We were considering putting a pellet stove in but are unsure how many tons of pellets it would burn to determine if it would be worth it. We also though about installing some of the new ceiling fans that have the space heater in them, but they are $250 a pop and still cost a lot to operate. Just looking for some opinions and no, I don't want to hang blankets up or shut rooms off because we use all of them. Does anyone use a pellet stove? How much pellets do you burn? Do you like it? Thanks in advance!!!!!

Answer
We have a 3-story, 4,200 s.f. center-hall stucco-on-brick colonial built in 1890 with 46 windows and five glass (French) doors. We have hot-water radiators and burn natural gas to to heat, as well as we have three functional fire-places built with the house. Natural gas in the PECO service area is approximately $1.14/therm (100,000 BTU), about 43% cheaper than #2 fuel oil at this time. We moved into the house about 2.5 years ago, and when we moved in the existing heating system had been allowed to freeze, the boiler (400,000 BTU oil-burner) had failed and 17 of 34 radiators had also failed along with four of six risers. Yes, we knew this going in.

When we replaced the radiators, we installed thermostatic valves. We installed a 96% efficient gas-fired modulating condensing boiler (230,000 BTU) that also handled domestic hot water via a super-insulated low-loss storage tank. The total cost of the conversion and replacements including the registered master plumber to do the boiler install and the inspection and utility certification was just over $12,000 - I did 80% of the work myself. My plumber stated that if he had done the entire job, it would have cost just under $20,000. I believe him. But the payback against Oil is pretty fast at any price.

Our cost last year (Philadelphia region) for all energy for 12 full months was under $3,600, inclusive of heat, hot water, cooking (gas) drying (gas) and electricity. We do not have central AC, but we do have large window units on the first floor and smaller units in each bedroom, of which three are going at any one time, typically, in very hot weather. Under most conditions only the bedroom units are on and only when occupied. Large masonry houses neither get so not nor so cold as frame houses in weather extremes. We are on track in 2010 to be slightly lower than in 2009 overall. We heat to 58F when the house is empty (during the day) and 68F during the evenings and on weekends, or when we are home (vacation or days off). We use a "smart" thermostat with an outside air sensor that works with the boiler to have the house at-temperature when we want it to be, not just starting the system at that point. We are not fanatical about heating (or cooling) at all. We use the fireplaces (library, dining room and master bedroom) quite often in the winter - they draw well and permit good modulation - so we do feel that they are net-positive for energy. Many are not. If we run the fireplace in the bedroom with the door partially closed it does get warm pretty quickly.

The thermostatic radiator valves allow us to reduce heat in unoccupied rooms even when the rest of the house is warm - which results in large savings - yet have the convenience of just turning them up if needed. We have considered a pellet stove (we have an ideal location for one) and also fireplace inserts. The cost-benefit ratio is not quite there yet - based on our use and habits, we have calculated that when natural gas reaches about $2.00/therm they will be a worthwhile investment - as long as good burning wood (oak) remains at $125/full cord or less.

A 200,000 BTU (net) geothermal system will set us back in excess of $25,000 in our environment - that is simply not going to happen. The payback will be beyond our lifetime.

All our rooms but the four majors (library, dining room, living room and kitchen) have ceiling fans - and we use them pretty much all year. Up in the winter, down in the summer. We do have electric space heaters - basic ceramic plug-in portables - that we use here-and-there as needed. Spending $0.21/hour to make one or two people and/or two cats comfortable in one room is a bunch better than heating an entire house for $2.63/hour to the same temperature - although I repeat - we are not fanatical about heat - we just will not heat all 4,200 s.f. if there is only one of us at home during an odd time. So, calculate on that basis when you are considering alternate fuels or heat sources.

Other things we have done: Install tight storm doors (high-quality), repair windows, caulk cracks, insulate and install the correct vapor-barrier system in our crawl-spaces, use only high-quality energy-star appliances sized for our actual needs, move to CLF lamps for general use, water saving faucets and shower-heads and so on and so forth. Each and every little bit helps. No one item overly costly and nothing exotic or hard to maintain.

Good luck with it.

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Thinking of buying an electric fireplace?

electric fireplaces at costco image

Q. who has one and how did you decide on the right one?

Answer
I got one last year at Costco's. I had wanted a fireplace for a long time but since a real one was out of the question I got an electric one. It also has a heater in it that blows out hot air. It was a good price and I didn't have to buy the mantel piece seprately(like I would have had to if I went to Lowe's)the whole thing came together. Its a nice cherrywood and it looks good with my x-mas stockings hanging on it. I like the look of cherrywood but they come in white, black and even have onesthat will fit in the corner. Think about where it will go first and then try to picture it. Also Costcos has a lifetime warranty on all non computor items.

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Which stove can save more costs? Wood burning stoves or electric stoves?

best electric fireplaces uk image

Ring

I hope my stove can value more in consideration of long-term benefits.

Answer
Of course wood stoves.

Wood burning stoves can save you much on the bill of costly electricity fee. You can burn the woods instead of the electricity. Furthermore, it's a green energy.

There is a wood stove in my house, mom bought it online which recommended from my uncle, he told me, he bought one last year from it, you may have a look. Hope you can find one you love. And sorry to ask you a question, do you like shopping online, for instance, such a huge fireplace. No matter how, you can have a look.
http://www.astove.co.uk/

Fireplaces? Which type is better for the enviornment?

Lil Miss A

Gas logs? Wood? Electric? and why?

Answer
Gas, coal or electric will be using fossil fuels (or nuclear etc), and although the fire itself may produce little or no pollution they are all dumping CO2 into the air (even nuclear does this, because of the resources needed to build them, mine the fuel and deal with the waste afterwards).

Wood also produces CO2 (as well as some other pollutants) -- however, this carbon has been fixed by the tree from the air, so it is renewable.

The question then is, whether the timber was from a sustainable source.

If it's from a woodland which has been cleared, and replaced with grassland, buildings or whatever, then that is carbon which used to be safely tied up in the woodland, and is now in the air -- it's additional CO2, and so not sustainable. If it's a primary (ancient) wood, that's destroyed an important natural habitat too.

However, if it's from a wood managed to produce timber, for example by sustainable logging or coppicing, then that's an efficient and acceptable biomass harvesting technique. Better than using good farmland. Woodland is not the trees themselves, but the land-use -- trees will always grow again if the woodland is still kept as woodland. In many woods (such as most UK ones), management from harvesting is necessary to maintain the wildlife.

If you do burn wood, do it the most efficient way you can. An open fire loses heat badly, as it pulls much more air up the chimney than the fire needs, dragging cool air into the room all the time. On the other hand a closed stove can be adjusted to pull only enough air to keep the fire going, and so is very much more efficient. More heat, less smoky pollutants, and the fuel last longer.

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What are the 300 elements of Little Alchemy?

electric fireplaces phoenix image

Marilyn Bo

Ok I've been playing that Google App game Little Alchemy. I currently have 291 but there is a total of 300 now as they updated it a few days ago from 290 to 300.

I have the original 290 and I figured out one of the new elements is a lava lamp. I just haven't been able to find the other 9. So does anyone know what the other nine are?

Also don't tell me how to make the new ones I just want to know what they are so I can try and figure it out.
Ok I'm now up to 299.

I've found darth vader, email, statue, origami, hamburger, prism, kite, and sand paper.

So I'm just missing one now.

Answer
I have 299 elements also. I'm not sure which one you don't have. Here's mine:

- acid rain\ air\ airplane\ alcohol\ algae\ allergy\ alligator\ angel\ Antarctica\ aquarium\ archipelago\ armor\ ash\ astronaut\ atmosphere\ atomic bomb\ axe

- bacon\ bacteria\ baker\ barn\ bat\ bayonet\ beach\ beaver\ beer\ bicycle\ bird\ birdhouse\ black hole\ blade\ blizzard\ blood\ boat\ boiler\ bone\ bread\ brick\ bullet\ butcher

- cactus\ camel\ campfire\ car\ cart\ castle\ cat\ caviar\ centaur\ cereal\ chainsaw\ charcoal\ cheese\ chicken\ Christmas tree\ cigarette\ clay\ clock\ cloud\ coal\ coconut\ coconut milk\ coffin\ cold\ computer\ cookie\ corpse\ cow\ cuckoo\ cyclist

- Darth Vader\ day\ desert\ diamond\ dinosaur\ doctor\ dog\ dog house\ double rainbow\ dough\ dragon\ drunk\ duck\ dune\ dust\ dynamite

- earth\ earthquake\ eclipse\ egg\ electric eel\ electrician\ electricity\ email\ energy\ engineer\ eruption\ explosion

- family\ farmer\ field\ fire\ fireman\ fireplace\ fireworks\ fish\ flood\ flour\ flute\ fog\ forest\ fossil\ Frankenstein\ fruit\ fruit tree

- galaxy\ garden\ geyser\ glacier\ glass\ glasses\ glasshouse\ goat\ golem\ grass\ grave\ gravestone\ graveyard\ grenade\ grim reaper\ gun\ gun powder

- hail\ ham\ hamburger\ hard roe\ hay\ hero\ horizon\ horse\ hospital\ hourglass\ house\ human\ hurricane

- ice\ ice cream\ iceberg\ idea\ igloo\ isle

- Jedi\ juice

- kite\ knight

- lamp\ lava\ lava lamp\ letter\ life\ light\ light bulb\ lighthouse\ light saber\ lion\ livestock\ lizard\ love\ lumberjack

- meat\ metal\ meteor\ meteoroid\ milk\ mirror\ monkey\ moon\ mountain\ mouse\ mud\ music

- nerd\ nest\ newspaper\ night

- oasis\ ocean\ oil\ omelette\ orchard\ origami\ owl

- palm\ paper\ Pegasus\ pencil\ penguin\ phoenix\ pie\ pig\ pilot\ pipe\ pizza\ planet\ plankton\ plant\ platypus\ pottery\ pressure\ prism

- rain\ rainbow\ ring\ river\ robot\ rocket\ rust

- sailboat\ sailor\ salt\ sand\ sandpaper\ sandstorm\ sandwich\ scissors\ scythe\ sea\ seagull\ seahorse\ seasickness\ seaweed\ shark\ sickness\ sky\ skyscraper\ smog\ smoke\ snake\ snow\ snowman\ solar cell\ sound\ space\ squirrel\ star\ starfish\ statue\ steam\ steam engine\ steamboat\ steel\ stone\ storm\ story\ sugar\ sun\ sundial\ sunflower\ sun glasses\ surfer\ sushi\ swamp\ sword\ swordfish

- telescope\ tide\ time\ toast\ tobacco\ tool\ train\ tree\ tree house\ tsunami\ turtle\ twilight

- unicorn

- vampire\ village\ volcano\ vulture

- wagon\ wall\ warrior\ water\ water pipe\ wave\ werewolf\ wheat\ wheel\ wild animal\ wind\ windmill\ wine\ wire\ wolf\ wood

- yogurt

- zombie

I hope this was helpful and if you figure out the last element please let me know which one i missed!

Naming some symbols in Fahrenheit 451?

EmGlo

I need some symbols that are not mentioned in the book that can represent a scene, theme, or character. It cannot be a symbol already used in the book. The symbol has to be original and can easily/clearly show it's purpose.
I need it for school because I have to do a project on it and the only ones I can think of, my teacher has used them. So I'm not sure if I can use those.
I was thinking about fire; which is kind of already used. And some symbol that can show freedom or opinion. If you could come up with a symbol for that, that would be great too. :D




Thank You So Much. (:
I was also thinking about curiosity for Clarisse. Maybe I could draw a cat? Would that be something easily shown?

Answer
Such an awesome book! After you're done with it, you must see the movie. It's a bit old but pretty darn good. Good luck!

Symbols:
Blood

Blood appears throughout the novel as a symbol of a human being's repressed soul or primal, instinctive self. Montag often âfeelsâ his most revolutionary thoughts welling and circulating in his blood. Mildred, whose primal self has been irretrievably lost, remains unchanged when her poisoned blood is replaced with fresh, mechanically administered blood by the Electric-Eyed Snake machine. The symbol of blood is intimately related to the Snake machine. Bradbury uses the electronic device to reveal Mildred's corrupted insides and the thick sediment of delusion, misery, and self-hatred within her. The Snake has explored âthe layer upon layer of night and stone and stagnant spring water,â but its replacement of her blood could not rejuvenate her soul. Her poisoned, replaceable blood signifies the empty lifelessness of Mildred and the countless others like her.

âThe Hearth and the Salamanderâ

Bradbury uses this conjunction of images as the title of the first part of Fahrenheit 451. The hearth, or fireplace, is a traditional symbol of the home; the salamander is one of the official symbols of the firemen, as well as the name they give to their fire trucks. Both of these symbols have to do with fire, the dominant image of Montag's lifeâthe hearth because it contains the fire that heats a home, and the salamander because of ancient beliefs that it lives in fire and is unaffected by flames.

âThe Sieve and the Sandâ

The title of the second part of Fahrenheit 451, âThe Sieve and the Sand,â is taken from Montag's childhood memory of trying to fill a sieve with sand on the beach to get a dime from a mischievous cousin and crying at the futility of the task. He compares this memory to his attempt to read the whole Bible as quickly as possible on the subway in the hope that, if he reads fast enough, some of the material will stay in his memory.

Simply put, the sand is a symbol of the tangible truth Montag seeks, and the sieve the human mind seeking a truth that remains elusive and, the metaphor suggests, impossible to grasp in any permanent way.

The Phoenix

After the bombing of the city, Granger compares mankind to a phoenix that burns itself up and then rises out of its ashes over and over again. Man's advantage is his ability to recognize when he has made a mistake, so that eventually he will learn not to make that mistake anymore. Remembering the mistakes of the past is the task Granger and his group have set for themselves. They believe that individuals are not as important as the collective mass of culture and history. The symbol of the phoenix's rebirth refers not only to the cyclical nature of history and the collective rebirth of humankind but also to Montag's spiritual resurrection.

Mirrors

At the very end of the novel, Granger says they must build a mirror factory to take a long look at themselves; this remark recalls Montag's description of Clarisse as a mirror in âThe Hearth and the Salamander.â Mirrors here are symbols of self-understanding, of seeing oneself clearly.

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Ventless Jelled-Fuel Fireplace?

electric fireplaces ventless image

alexandra

Are ventless jelled fuel fireplaces safe around children? Do the flames really get hot or is it like an electric fireplace?

Answer
They are real flames. I can't see how that is 100% safe for children. Just don't burn it when kids are unsupervised.

Anyone with a ventless gas fireplace stove? Are they safe? Thanks?

dadntaylor

Answer
There are two problems with vent free fireplaces.
1. CARBON MONOXIDE
2. Moisture

They produce Carbon Monoxide that is why you vent gas appliances outside the house (i.e. furnace and hot water heater). They also produce a lot of moisture which can stay in the house ans cause mold problems, rot the house from the inside and cause generally nasty problems.

If you want a gas fireplace, get a vented one, or get an electric one (they look cool). You also need to make sure that the room with the fireplace is not the room with the thermostat, or the rest of the house will get really cold.

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What kind of heating can I expect from an electric fireplace?

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owen h

I was planning on adding another electric heater to my house but the electric fireplace will only be a few hundred more. Some models say they heat 400 sq. feet and it will look great in my bedroom.


Im planning on getting one that I can hold a tv and other media devices too. Anyone with experience with a website or a department store? Thanks.

Answer
an electric fireplace is pretty much equal to a space heater

in both .... area heated and cost of heating

Is an electric fireplace more efficient than a baseboard heater?

Saskwatcha

I have a house that is heated by baseboard heaters and I am thinking of getting a electric fireplace for the living room. Both are 2000W. The fireplace will have a fan - which will use more energy, but spread the heat through the room faster. Which one will be more energy efficient?

Answer
accept not other answer other than no. Electric fireplaces are ornamental only

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does anyone know how to build the fire effect for electric fireplaces?

best electric fireplaces image

Johnny C

looking to build my own electric fireplace effect. Not with silk.

Answer
Go to a fireplace shop and study the electric ones there. That should give you some idea of how they work and how you can duplicate the process.

What is the most realistic looking electric fireplace?

ndsino

I know there are many types of fireplaces, but I'd like to find the most realistic electric fireplace I can. I don't want it for the heat -- just for the look. We live in a warm area, so really don't need the warmth of the fire. I also have a budget of less than $1000. What would you recommend?
I should also add that we prefer a more classic look rather than a modern, trendy look. You know, something like you'd see in an old living room all decked out for Christmas -- stockings hung on it, etc.

Answer
Cool summer evenings, crisp autumn mornings, and winter's many frosty days provide perfect opportunities to cozy up with Dimplex's traditional-style electric fireplace. Featuring a roomy 20-inch firebox opening, realistic glowing logs, and a patented 3D flame feature, this handsome room accent creates an elegant fire look without the dangers of smoke, an open flame, propane, or gas emissions. The unit's fan-forced heater distributes heat quickly and evenly throughout the room, while its thermostat control makes it easy to maintain personal comfort levels. The fireplace can also provide a glowing fire without the heat for visual enjoyment year-round. Concealed controls provide a clean look and the included remote control allows for easy adjustments without having to leave that perfect spot on the sofa. Classic in design, the fireplace offers a rich burnished walnut finish, graceful embellished molding, and a generous mantel for photographs, vases, or other personal touches. It measures a space-efficient 36-3/4 inches wide by 36 inches high by 11-3/4 inches deep to fit nicely into rooms large and small.

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Fish tank heat?? Is there an alternative way to heat a fish tank?

electric fireplaces sears image

Ben

I have no power at my house which means no fish tank heaters or heat in general.. The outside temp is 37 and i need to know if theres anyway i can keep the tanks heated?

Answer
I'll start off with a couple good ideas that may actually help you. If I start rambling about cavemen and sled dogs, you'll know to stop reading.

A fireplace if you have one will warm up parts of the house. You may be able to rent a generator or buy one at WalMart, Home Depot, Sears, etc. that will be big enough to power the electrical systems of a gas furnace. or a least a couple small electric space or radiant heaters. Styrofoam insulation boards may help slow the loss of heat from the tank. Don't use towels or blankets for insulation because they can dip in the tank and start a siphon on to the floor. Battery operated air pumps actually cool down the tank rapidly by forcing cold room air into the tank and creating evaporative cooling at the surface.

If cavemen had kept tropical fish, I imagine they would have had to heat up rocks in their bonfires in front of the cave entrance and then set a few hot rocks under their aquariums. In the 1850's aquariums were made with cast iron bottoms so that the owner could set a Bunsen burner or a few candles under the aquarium to keep it warm. That would be a huge mistake with a glass or acrylic aquarium. And forget your sled dogs helping you out. You read "To Build A Fire" didn't you?

Where can I buy a DCS brand grill in Houston, TX?

Stina

I'm looking for an outdoor grill made by Dynamic Cooking Systems in Houston, TX. What stores would carry this brand of bbq grills?

Answer
K & N BUILDER SALES
1401 SHEPHARD
HOUSTON
713 868 3611
Distance: 2.20 km, 1.37 mi

FERGUSON
4245 RICHMOND AVE
HOUSTON
281 350 3355
Distance: 6.99 km, 4.34 mi

FACTORY BUILDER STORES
4242 RICHMOND
HOUSTON
713-572-4242
Distance: 7.08 km, 4.40 mi

NOR-WEST APPLIANCE SALES INV
4618 RANDWICK
HOUSTON
713-688-0372
Distance: 8.31 km, 5.16 mi

SEARS APPLIANCE OUTLET #4057
5901 GRIGGS RD
HOUSTON
713-644-9351
Distance: 10.04 km, 6.24 mi

THE FIREPLACE MAN INC.
5902 S.W. FREEWAY
HOUSTON
713-785-8399
Distance: 10.37 km, 6.44 mi

JOHN HENRY FOOD PRODUCTS
7676 NORTH FREEWAY
HOUSTON
281-272-1875
Distance: 11.69 km, 7.26 mi

KIVA KITCHEN & BATH
7071 SOUTHWEST FREEWAY
HOUSTON
713-781-2222
Distance: 13.52 km, 8.40 mi

MANNA DISTRIBUTORS
8708 Westpark Drive
HOUSTON
713-977-3318
Distance: 13.68 km, 8.50 mi

GAS&ELECTRIC ARCHITECTURL
1756 BLALOCK RD
HOUSTON
713-464-9319
Distance: 13.81 km, 8.58 mi

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How much does it cost to Build a woodburning fireplace?

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choirgirl3

We found the perfect home -but it does not have the woodburning fireplace that I've always wanted. Gas, electric will not do. There is a florida room in the back of the home... brick masonry foundation and windows. I figured I knock a hole in it and install a woodburner. Feasible? If so, how much should I budget for it? Who should I get to do the work for me, what kind of professional?

Answer
I am a general contractor in California. A pot bellied wood burning stove installed in your average 2000 sq. ft. house in CA wood be about $3,000.00. A real brick fireplace would start at $10,000.00 and go up from there. These are CA prices I don't know Florida prices. A general contractor preferably to get the job done, because they will take into consideration anything else that you might need to change to accommodate your new fireplace. A masonry contractor will only do what his trade entails.

How to get prior owners smell out of house?

3Diamonds

We just bought a condo from the original owner. I first smelled a slight burning/fruity/perfumey smell when we inspected it, but it didnt completely turn me off. Since buying, we suspected maybe she smoked. Its hard to say- the smell is really weird and faint- like a country/perfume/smoke smell. Now, we think it was the fireplace or something that smelled smokey. But, the condo smells like the old owner. Even my husband took down some sheetrock from the Dining room to put in some electrical wires, and i smelled a peice of the inside of the sheetrock, and it had that perfumey smell. So, its even inside the walls... Its not horrendous, and we are getting a HEPA whole house air cleaner installed soon, as were not moved in yet- but every time i come over here i smell it. (her).

BTW- we painted the whole place, even closets, refinished the wood floors, and remodeled the kitchen. Its in the walls. It tends to go away once we open the windows and i have a carbon filter i run which helps too.
ps. we did already paint the entire place (as mentioned), and took ALL old carpeting out, replaced with new carpeting/pads/hardwood floors. :)
No, the prev. owner is not a wife or girlfriend- lol.. i moved here w/ my husband (well- will be soon :) but it was an older woman so it has sort of that "old" person country smell. I do really think she smoked in it b/c i can smell it alittle now in only 1 room (i have a really sensetive nose..ll) where the walls arent fully closed up yet (a closet). So, i think were doing good. Since the paint dried in the closets and we did the trim,that really helped the little bit that was lingering.
Once we get this hepa thing (its an IQ Air- apparently the kind on extreme home makeover and takes 99% of impurities out of the air w/o any ozone) we should take care of the remainder.

one last thing- i bought a regular $20 box fan, and taped a Carbon/Hvac filter on the back, and run it continuously too- that really helps the smell, and the VOCs from all our new wood/paints/etc.

:)

Answer
There are always smells that cannot be neutralized at the source because the source cannot be accessed. For these types of odors, you need a product that can absorb the smell before it emanates throughout your home. A musty basement, stale smelling closet, or a hidden animal nest in an inaccessible wall may disperse smells that cannot be directly dealt with.
Few suggestions for your consideration:

You can remove almost any odor from your home by boiling cinnamon, orange peel(you can also add lemon peel) and cloves in about two cups of water. This will not only eliminate lingering odors, but freshen the air in your home as well. Leave it uncoverd, also boil again once it gets cold or whenever you get another chance to give a boil.


Placing a few drops of tea tree oil in any room of your house or even in your car will eliminate lingering odors and freshen the air. You can also use tea tree oil in your dish water or laundry to cut lingering odors that are difficult to remove.



Placing a cotton ball soaked in pure vanilla extract in a small saucer and placing it anywhere in your home or even your car will eliminate odors and freshen the air, giving it a sweetened scent.

Using these tips will help keep your home and car smelling clean and fresh no matter what the lingering odor might be, without the use of harsh cleaning products that can discolor or leave an odor of their own. By using items you already have in your home,
1) Arm & Hammer Baking Soda. In a sixteen-ounce trigger spray bottle, add two teaspoons of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda to two cups of water. Shake Well. Next, spray the air of any room or area to banish bad odors. To deodorize a closet or refrigerator, place an open box of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda on a shelf.

2) Bounce. Inside of an air-conditioning vent or on top of a fan, tape a Bounce dryer sheet. It will blow fragrant air throughout the house. You can also place Bounce sheets under mattresses, sofa cushions and carpets to improve their smell. Don't forget to use them in your hamper and drawers. Be sure to take advantage of the different varieties of this products in order to vary the sweet fragrances floating through your home.

3) Downy. In a sixteen-ounce trigger spray bottle, add one tablespoon of Downy liquid fabric softener and water. Shake well. Then spray the air. You'll be surprised at how much better it smells afterwards.

4) Heinz White Vinegar. In order to remove stubborn smells lingering in the air from cooking, paint and cigarettes, place a small bowl of Heinz White Vinegar in the room. You can also put it in a spray bottle and spritz it around the room. This solution will act as an odor neutralizing foul smells.

5) Car Freshener Pine Trees. Those strongly scented Car Freshener Pine Trees can be used to improve the odor of other things besides your vehicle. If you hang them on a blind in front of a window or taped against an air conditioner, it will freshen up your home. You can also bring one to work to battle interoffice odors.

6) Kingsford Charcoal Briquets. If you place a clean, used coffee can filled with charcoal briquets in a closet or chest, it will absorb odors. (Warning: Make sure the briquets are unused and fresh also.)

7) Maxwell House Coffee. Using fresh grounds of Maxwell House Coffee, fill a bowl and place it in a room. It will deodorize and freshen that room.

don't care for Candles because of the black smoke, and agree with plug -in don't last long enough, you can go broke.
My favorite two are
Liquid Poupperi< sp bad!
simmer in a electric warmer
The Candles that are made for simmering in electric warmers
Both Reasonable Price and Both will Make your Home Smell Good!
Good Luck!

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Do electric fireplaces really look real?

electric fireplaces walmart image

Richie Ric

The ones I saw at walmart and homedepot look like crap. I looked online and some some from a company called Dimplex that looks pretty real. Has anyone bought one of these? Do they look real? I don't want to be be embarrassed with some piece of crap that I bought online and can't return. Does anyone have any other companies to suggest? Thanks.

Answer
do electric fireplaces look real?...well they kind of do, but the better electric fireplaces are not going to be at a big box store, you really need to visit a specialty fireplace shop. Any shop worth its bricks will carry a good brand that looks more realistic.
Overall though you are not going to fool anyone that an electric fireplace is a real one. They are an aesthetic all their own.
Personally i like the look of them and they are easy to operate but they are not going to fool anybody into thinking they are real.

how do i burn a candle tart without an actual warmer?

Jessica H

im wondering if its possible to melt a tart just in a cup with some fire? or do i have to buy a tart warmer? thank u

Answer
They are pretty inexpensive, look in the craft section at walmart. They have some that look like soapstone for under five bucks.

If you don't want it for some reason, you can get a coffee cup warmer, or a jar candle warmer, these are like small burners that you place in the corner of your desk etc that give off small amounts of heat...or you can get a pot pourri crockpot. These are the only logical options I can give you and they all will probably cost more. The adv is that they are electric, instead of having to replace tealights.

You can just unwrap them and place in a non-plastic bowl, in a sunny window, or where the heater is blowing, or on top of a heater or in front of the fireplace.

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