Have you ever seen the Heat Surge infomercial? Was it as amusing to you as it is to me?

electric fireplaces video image

Jen is don

Electric fireplaces created by the Amish, complete with "real" footage of "real" Amish people making the fireplaces!!

Never mind that the Amish don't use electricity.

And don't believe in being video taped.

And don't pierce their ears.
misslabeled I actually get my information from a friend of mine who's parents left an Amish colony. And they don't believe in being videotaped or photographed because it's prideful and "showing off," therefore "showing off" their heat surges and working in front of the camera is against what they claim to believe in.

Thanks for offering me a reason to explain that further.

Answer
funny thing about a lot of those Amish I found when I lived around them, they will use electricity, phones, cars etc...as long as it's not theirs, ie they won't pay for it or own it but will use it, seemed kinda hokey to me.

Is this enough to give out?

Danielle

I wanted to make christmas very special!

For my mom:
T'was the night before Christmas video I'm personalizing myself [If you want I will give you the link on Christmas, just ask (=]
Some candy cane stocking holders cause she just got an electric fireplace,
Cookie jar filled with her favorite candies; Turtles and Hot Tamales,
A video of us kids growing up if the camera cooperates and there isn't any little white areas on the photo. :)

Brother; hard shopper; Some fake tattoo's, a DVD, and I'm going to try to find a cute washcloth for him [He has to clean his face often.]

Sister: She's moving so I'm getting her a throw for her couch that has a picture of us (=

Thanks, if I need to give more INFORM ME! :) I'll think of some greater gifts.

By the way I only have about 50$ extra to spend cause I payed for the some of the kitten to take a load off my mom. (= By the way my mom works extra hard during now so I got her the most! :)

Answer
idk

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Would it be easier to get a gas stove installed in the basement or an electric stove? Which is cheaper?

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Mace

I have a gas line in the house already so I thought it might be a better fit and cheaper to get a gas one, but not sure how much it cost to have an electric stove installed compared to a gas one.
Are there any things I should know about if I want to place a cooking stove in the basement?

Answer
The installation cost would be about the same. Having said that, there are a few variables. If you go with gas, you will need to have it vented to the outside. If you have a way to vent it, the gas is probably going to be cheaper to operate. There are some ventless gas heaters on the market, but I would not trust them in a tight space such as a basement. If you do not have a way to vent the gas, you will have to go with the electric. We recently needed to add heat to a similar space, and bought an electric fireplace, which has a heater built into it. Works like charm, and we have the added beauty of the fireplace. (New ones look very real). Good luck.

Is it possible to install an electric fireplace insert (logs only) into an existing fireplace surround?

catoredd

That is the perfect answer. Thanks so much!

Answer
From:
http://sicarius.typepad.com/fireplace_lowdown/electric_fireplaces/index.html

"If you've already got a perfectly good wood-burning fireplace that you're not using, why not make use of that? You can get a simple set of electric logs that are designed to be tucked into an existing firebox. Unlike with a regular fireplace, where you have to haul in the wood, light the fire, and keep an eye on it until it goes out, electric logs work with a flip of a switch. True, they're not as cool looking as the real thing, but there's a lot to be said for convenience. And most electric logs can be moved if you want to build a real fire.

An example of some inexpensive, but still decent looking, logs is this set from Classic Home Elements. At about $150, they're a lot cheaper than buying a whole electric fireplace (which includes mantle, surround, and all the stuff you don't really need if you've got a fireplace already).

Classic Home Elements 21'' Crackling Log Set"


"

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Whats the difference between an electric and gas furnace? as far as cost and upkeep go?

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BS and tha

I'm looking at Condos right now one has a gas furnace and water tank, while the other 2 have an electric(forced air) furnace and an electric water heater.
Which is more expensive to run in terms of energy bills? Do Electric Furnaces last longer then gas? Are they cheaper to replace? Does an electric furnace use a heating element or what?(vs a gas using a flame)

The one I'm looking at still has an electric furnace from the mid 70's. Should i be worried?

Answer
Electric is MUCH more expensive to operate. It uses something called "heat strips" to provide heat. Have you ever seen a fake fireplace that provides heat by blowing air over a coil that heats up? It provides heat but is very expensive to run because it has to keep the coil red hot to provide heat. Well that's the same way an electric furnace is going to heat your condo, except it has strips that it heats up and blows air over.

I would definitely go with the one with gas heat. By the way, a forced hot air furnace can still be gas. That's what we had in New Jersey and my bills were not out of line.

A gas furnace costs more to replace, but a lot less to operate. Same with a gas dryer. It's more to purchase, but less to operate.

An electric furnace from the 70's is probably not a very energy efficient model so I would definitely think twice.

Good luck with finding your new condo and happy moving!!

Alternatives to burning wood or coals in your fireplace during the upcoming winter months?

Ice_Queen

I've tried those single logs that burn for 2 hours and then I've also tried regular burning wood, but it's a messy job early in the morning when I have to sweep all the ashes, and I suffer from terrible allergies.

I am a conservationist and my family and I are trying are best to search for other possible alternatives to cutting our heating, gas, and electric bills over the winter months. Does anyone have any good suggestions?

Answer
Since you are a conservationalist there is really only a few options for you to effectively use your open fireplace in a "green" way. First lets get the bad news out of the way...

The first thing you must understand is that open fireplaces always waste more heat than they generate. Think of them as a wood toilet. I know it sounds counter-intuitive since obviously a fire generates heat. But, the air movement that a fireplace creates in your home is referred to as the "stack effect" and it literally sucks heat out of your home. The fire in the fireplace is grabbing your interior air that your furnace already worked hard to heat and is using it for combustion and tossing it up the chimney along with most of the heat the fire is creating. Meanwhile, your home cannot remain a vacuum after loosing all this air mass, so it starts sucking in cold outside air from other weak points in the home envelope (like windows and doors). In return for this massive waste the fireplace casts a paltry 10% of its available heat forward as radiant heat.

The US Department of Energy has put some statistics to the use of fireplaces. They estimate that a homeowner will consume 10% - 20% more furnace fuel if a fireplace is used regularly in that home.

Now for the good news...If your main goal is to get usable heat from this fireplace an upgrade is in order. An efficient fireplace insert is the only way you can control the heat and air access to your fireplace. plus they are usually equipped with a fan that helps you harvest all that usable radiant heat coming from the insert. An upgrade like this will cost you a few thousand dollars for an efficient model. Unfortunately, the quality manufacturers of these are backordered for about 4-5 months this winter.

Here is the cost effective option: If you donât have a couple of grand to drop on an insert, and you are looking to just get a little ambiance from your fireplace, you can go this route. First, get that fireplace damper plugged up nice and tight with a chimney balloon damper. Inflate it in the fireplace flue to stop the heat seepage and cold draft through your old damper. Then get a candelabra with some soy candles and put it in the hearth. The soy candles are not petroleum based so they will not push out soot into your interior air. Beanpod makes a pretty good product, but there are others as well. If you have 5 or 6 candles burning in the fireplace you will get a nice flickery glow to the room that is every bit as pleasant as a flickery wood fire, but not as wasteful.

Some people swear by the electric style fireplace inserts, and you can go that route too. They are inexpensive compared to wood inserts, but my opinion is they look a little cheesy.

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How do you heat your home and keep Heating prices low?

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olivia6799

With natural gas prices rocketing sky high - what are you doing to keep your heating bills at a minimal? Any unique ideas to heat up your place without giving up your arm this coming winter?

Currently we have an air-forced duct system in place. I really hate it, the heat does not distribute evenly throughout the house and despite of having a so-called humidifier installed
into the system, we still have excessive dry air.

I really liked those old water based - radiator heaters, it minimized static and really kept homes warm -- whatever happen to those?

Anyway, give me ideas on how to maintain a nice warm house this winter, I do not want to make this a major project -- keep it nice and simple.

I also have two non-working fireplaces in this old house, I don't have the slightest idea how to use / maintain one. Currently there are sealed off, and if I get it going ... will it even be safe? will it be worth it ? Please share your ideas with me -- I am desperate! ~thanks

Answer
The house I own had no heating system other than a blower box on the fireplace when I bought it. Several thousand dollars later I had central heat with a heat pump in place. I thought all would be great, until I got my first heating bill. If I use that thing I can expect heating bills to range from $300-600 a month in the winter.

SOOOoo I have become something of an obsessive about tricks and alternative heating sources.

1. You would not believe how much outside air leaks into your house. Go around when it's cold and windy and put your hand over door cracks, keyholes in the knobs, window sills, even along the floor by the wall. If you can't plaster over the leak, tape it. All that cold air coming in just drives up your costs.

2. A $4 flannel blanket from Walmart works wonders when hung over doorways that are not regularly used. I also hang them over windows as a cheap alternative to heavy drapery.

3. Those fireplaces? Forget 'em. They'll suck out more heat than they put in. The only time a fireplace really does good is if you are either right in front of it, or you have a blower insert that forces the heat out into the house instead of sending it all up the chimney.

4. I can't say enough about those $1.25 draft dodgers that you stick on the base of your doors. Just peel the backing and stick them on. Any hardware store or Walmart will have them.

5. Insulation. When is the last time you checked it in your attic? You lose a LOT of heat through the ceiling, so a few hundred bucks worth of blown in insulation can save you thousands over a few years. You need at least 6 inches of insulation up there (I put in a foot!), so if it's all compressed down to a few inches, it's time to resupply.

Look around, you'll find one of those radiators. I finally realized the heat pump was very efficient until the outside temp dropped below 45, then the meter nearly spun off it's base. So, I hooked up a free standing, vent free, propane fueled fireplace that will make the place toasty warm when the temp drops into the 30s or below.

Avoid the temptation to get little electric space heaters. The energy they use up to make that little bit of heat is NOT worth it.

Which is more efficient? Using a gas fireplace or an electric space heater?

John

I have a home built in 2004, masonry fireplace with metal flue and a Home Depot gas log set. My question, is whether it is cheaper to run the fireplace to add a little warmth to the den or to use a ceramic type electric space heater. From what I've read, a fireplace is very inefficient. However, gas is more efficient and cheaper than electricity. You do get a fan, oscillation, etc out of the space heater, but gas is a thermally more efficient than electricity and much cheaper. I also have a solar voltaic system that covers about 50% of my normal electricity usage, so that may also skew the real equation of relative costs.

Answer
It is more efficient to use your electric space heater unless you had a fireplace insert. After reading your question it sounds like you just have a flue and not an insert. If you only have a flue and no insert is present, then most of the heat generated by the fireplace logs is going up and out the flue. Thus, it is more efficient to run the electric space heater. In addition, you have a solar voltaic system to increase the efficiency of your electric heater. However, if you had a fireplace insert and not just a flue, then it would be more efficient to burn gas rather than run the heater.

-Miller's One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

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Is it possible to add a see-through fireplace in a wall between the tub and bedroom?

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AV

My bathroom is small and no space is available to borrow from anywhere else. I want to remodel the bathroom where the bathtub (not sunken) is next to the wall that divides the bathroom and master bedroom. That dividing wall is where I want to put the fireplace. Is that possible? Since the tub is high, the fireplace will be at a high level on the bath side. But how does one raise the firebox level on the bedroom side?

Answer
you can but you may have to have some plumbing moved there are fire place options now and they can be placed just about anywhere but remember the wall will have the be quite deep to accommodate the venting. it sounds nice to place it there sounds as if it will also be at a nice height when your in bed too for space sake you may want to consider an electric fire box with a blower to give off warmth and ambiance without all the hassle and expense

Can you share your advise to survive in a Winter snow storm without electricity?

Parent_K

My home had power outage for the past 2 days. Without electricity, there is no heat, light and cannot cook food. The fireplace and chimney is not working either. Do you have any experience of this situation? What is the best way to survive? Please give me your tips and advise? I want to prepare for the next one.

Answer
We went a day without electricity this last storm.
FOOD:
I first have food and water for each person for 5 days. Stored away.
Include foods that can be heated with a single pan or pot. Or cooked in one pot or pan. Instant hot cereal, cold cereal, powder milk, tuna,crackers, oil for cooking, canned fruit, etc. I like to have special things like those disposable jiffy-pop popcorn pans, marshmallows to roast. I also make large batches of soup/stews/chili beans/stir-fry fixings; put one dinners worth into a zip lock freezer bag and keep in the freezer. These can be just heated up in your 'camp' burner dinner pan. If by March/April they haven't been needed I use them for dinners and make more in late Fall for the next winter. Also have food stored for the animals. Dog,cat,pig whatever. I have bags of pellets for the horses if they run out of hay.
FOOD SPOILAGE: The food in your fridge needs to be eaten first. I put milk and cheese in a large bowl with snow to keep them longer. Don't open the freezer unless you are pulling food for a meal. I use snow to pack the food and keep it from spoiling. I also use the rule- when in doubt throw it out. If you think something might me spoiled, don't eat it. I use snow to pretty much keep food cold.
COOKING: http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=5431B705&categoryid=2010I have a single burner that attaches to a propane bottle. (the kind you get for camping) I heat water for coffee/hot chocolate and can cook dinner in one pan.
CLEANING: I have two dishpans. Heat up water for washing and rinsing on your camp burner.
HYGENE: We have an electric water heater so when the power goes out I don't have hot water. I don't care for freezing cold showers so...Once a day scrub your body with a warm soapy wash cloth.
HEAT: Have an alternate source of heat. If you don't have wood and a fireplace, buy a camping heater that takes batteries. Have two sets of extra batteries. ( Never run it while you sleep)
WARM: Layers of clothing keep you warmer than just one warm jacket/coat. Have one pair of wool socks for each person. Wear a clean pair of cotton socks under the wool ones each day. Move....moving around warms up your body.
LIGHTING: I use old fashion kerosne lamps ( keep out of kids reach) I tape a small lighter to the side of the base so I don't have to search in the dark for something to light it withhttp://www.lehmans.com/jump.jsp?itemType=CATEGORY&itemID=683&i1Cat=669&i2Cat=683&i3Cat=0&i4Cat=0, If you don't like kerosne lanterns then you can buy camping lanterns, propane or battery powered.http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=5330-707&categoryid=31500
use self contained votive candles for the bathroom (10 stored for emergency), I have medium size fashlights that can be attatched to a rope to hang around my neck,(I like to have my hands free) PERSONAL: have medications, cold medicines, reading material, deck of cards, sanitary napkins, a journal, picture album, things YOU would like.
PAM: the spray- for your metal snow shovel. It keeps the snow from
sticking.
When you know a storm is coming or...it is past Thanksgiving check your supplies, get what you may need. Also apples, bananas, and oranges are great to pick up when a storm is coming. They don't have to be refridgerated.

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I'm about to be 18 and I have some questions?

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Starla Sul

Okay, well, I honestly don't know how to start. I guess I kind of need like a mentor or something? I don't want to feel stupid but I honestly have no one I can ask these to and I feel slightly over-whelmed. Well, I might as well start from the beginning, I live in Dayton, Ohio and I'm a 17 year old female, and I want to move out by the time I'm 18, and my birthday is in the beginning of June. I have so many questions I don't even know where to start and I'm just looking for someone to answer some of my questions, no matter how stupid they may be.

First of all, does anyone know what places hire people under 18? I know of McDonald's, Starbucks, Burger King, etc. I've applied to some of these and never got a call back and I really want to get a job as soon as possible because my parents won't let me get my license until I have one, which I understand completely but I have no way of getting around anywhere aside from walking, which is good for me, but sometimes it's just too much. Btw, I think sometimes I tend to go on and on... Like I'm doing now.
Anyway, how much does getting a drivers license cost? Including everything in drivers ed?
What are some typical appliances/furniture most people have?
With most apartments will I be using gas or electric or both? Add price estimates, if possible?
What is a reasonable price for one bedroom apartments?
Is it better to have a roommate? (I have looked this up many times, and done the math to the best of my ability and I always come up short, going by minimum wage and maximum prices, but honestly this all confuses me.)

I have so many more questions so if anyone could/would help me out reply here or send me an email at: nonya_bizz_nizz@yahoo.com


I appreciate any help. I think I need all that I can get right now.

Answer
You might get a job at Macy's or a place like Marshall's, Home Goods, Hallmark, etc. Also - all the fast food chain restaurants - Denny's, Taco Bell, Dairy Queen, Sonic; coffee shops too.

A driverâs license application will cost you about $10. The eye exam is free at the DMV. You will need to borrow somebodyâs car for the actual exam.
Are your parents buying you a car? If not, you might not be able to get one yourself just yet, because of your credit history (read below.) You will also need insurance - talk to them and see who will be paying about that.

Typical appliances/furniture: I'll tell you the very basic things that you'll need... a bed with box spring, a dresser (or two), a couch, table/desk with several chairs, coffee table and/or side table. You will likely need a microwave, a toaster, some plates, cups, silverware, utensils, knives, a frying pan (if you plan on cooking), tablecloth, trash can, towels, shower curtain and a mat, a laundry basket, a shoe rack, some hangers. You might want to get a TV and a computer. Think about the curtains/blinds.

Apartments usually use electricity for things like the fridge, microwave, washer and dryer, A/C. Most ovens and some fireplaces use gas. My husband and I pay about $180 for everything in a 1,200 ft. apartment in New Jersey (close to New York City.)

I looked at apartment prices in and around Dayton, Ohio for you. You can get a 1 or 2 bedroom for about $500+. Of course there are some cheaper options â like $375 for a 1 bedroom. Check out craigslist.org

Having a roommate - Do you have credit cards or a credit history? If you donât, it might be a challenge renting your own place. You will have to search for roommates who already have a lease. And even then a lot of people wonât be willing to share their space with you. Because you have no way of proving that you are âfinancially responsible.â Even if you have a job - being employed at a certain place for less than a year is not considered as a good enough âproof.â Plus, itâs always nice to share the utilities with someone. Itâs even better if you get several roommates, as there are nice 4 bedroom houses for $800. That means that youâd have to pay $200 for your room. And it could be fun to have some company since you are 18.
I had 4 roommates when I was your age.

You will also have to pay for Internet, TV and phone â that should be around $100 a month for the regular service and about $165 if you want to add the premium channels and some insanely fast Internet (like Verizon FiOs.)
Water is about $30-50 if you do a lot of laundry.

Iâd be happy to answer any other questions that you might have. Drop me a line if you'd like.

this spring my family is going camping without my mom...?

Rachel

this spring break my family of 6-1 (my mom is at college), so it'll just be:
dad, 47
sisters, 18+16 (16 year old's bday, turning 17)
brother, 11
me (girl), 13

we need to know a few things first though:
where to go
-nj
-not to far from 08054
what to bring

and we want to rent camper big enough and not to expensive!
thanks! :]

Answer
There are many state and private campgrounds in NJ. Many of these are closed during the Winter, but most open in March and April, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding something nearby. With a camper you might prefer a private campground so you can have electric and water hookups for your camper (not available at state campgrounds). Many private campgrounds rent campers and cabins, or you can lookup RV Dealers to see what's available to rent. State campgrounds don't rent campers but many do have cabins you can rent.

Because it will still be cold with a chance of snow you will not be fishing and probably not canoeing or kayaking (although that can be great fun even in winter, as long as you're properly experienced and prepared). That makes the excellent Cape May area campsites less attractive, because there's not much to do when its cold at the seashore. If it were me, I'd head to the Pine Barrens in and around Wharton State Forest (Hammonton/Chatsworth area). Atsion (on the lake) and Godfrey Bridge camping areas in Wharton State Forest are good if you don't mind carrying your own water and running off battery in the camper. Cabins are available at Atsion. There are also some more isolated camping sites further in the park that are accessible via unpaved sand roads. Wading Pines in Chatsworth is a good private campground in the area.

These sand roads go all over the Pine Barrens and many can be easily traveled by a family AWD/4WD SUV or Pick-Up. Many of these roads are also listed on Garmin and Lowrance GPS Navigation Systems (not TomTom, and I don't know about others). Driving the sand roads looking for ghost towns (now just bare spots next to the road), building ruins, wildlife, geocaches, and the Jersey Devil are popular activities. There are some tiny but nice beaches along some bends in the rivers and streams in the area that are good for a picnic (or a quick swim in warmer months).

If you are willing to go farther then NJ than I would head to Florida for the warm weather and beach, but you'll be competing with all the college kids and their ideas about Spring Break. I prefer the Western and Southwestern states myself: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada; but these are too far for a one-week trip. You can also go to PA or upstate NY, but in the Spring I don't think they have more to offer than NJ.

Staying in a camper is a lot like staying in a vacation cabin or bungalow. Besides the normal stuff (clothes, soap, shampoo) you'll need to bring your own towels and flip-flops for the public bathrooms/showers, your own toilet paper, plus all your own plates, cups, napkins and utensils for eating. You might also need to bring your own pots, pans and cooking utensils. Of course you'll need food and drinks and condiments, but you'll also need dish soap, sponges, scrubbies and paper towels. Coolers for food and beverages and a small propane grill, and maybe 2-burner camp stove for cooking outside. Folding table and chairs to eat on if there's no picnic table. Lanterns and flashlights, too.

The camper (or cabin) will usually have some sort of heat (furnace in the camper, and furnace or fireplace in the cabin). You'll need to charge the battery every day or so (by hooking to the car and allowing to run until charged) to run the furnace and the lights in the camper if you don't have electrical hook-ups, and make sure you don't run out of propane. But that means you only need a normal sleeping bag (not a cold weather one) or a bedroll made of blankets for sleeping, plus your pillow (and teddy bear).

If campfires are allowed you'll need to bring your own wood, kindling and tinder (or make kindling/tinder on-site) for the fire. Don't forget hot dogs and marshmallows to roast over the fire.

Of course lots of trash bags because you have to keep a clean campsite, carry out all your trash (or place in dumpsters if provided), and put your dirty clothes in something.

For clothing you need clean underwear and socks for every day, but can wear the same pants and shirt for two or more days (hey, this is camping, not a luxury resort!). Also bring a sweater or sweatshirt and sweatpants in case it gets cold, and a warm jacket, hat and gloves. Thick socks and good hiking boots or shoes are recommended.

Binoculars, fishing pole and tackle, GPS for geocaching, camera, magnifying glass are good ideas. Each person should carry a full water bottle, brightly-colored bandanna, signal whistle, flashlight energy bar and a few other emergency items just in case something happens while out on the trail hiking or something.

That's the basics. I could go on for pages but I think you get the idea. Ask more questions if you think of them.

(BTW, I've stayed at dozens of KOA's across the country. Most are good, some are very good, but many are so-so and some downright awful. In any case, there are no KOA's in NJ.)

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What is the tool used to turn on the gas to a fireplace in a new home?

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rayancy32

I have a new home with a gas fireplace with an electric ignition. There is a gas valve built in the wall near the fireplace that uses a tool to turn on the gas to the fireplace. I tried to use a pair of needle nose pliers but they're too short to reach the valve which sits back about an inch inside the wall. The valve is shaped like a hex (male). Does anyone know the name of the tool used to turn the gas valve on and off?

Answer
yes it's called a gas key for homeowners. either go to any building center or to a place of buisness that sale gas fireplaces,hearths,etc.

What to look for when viewing a short sale home?

Shelby

I am looking at buying my first home. I was shown a house yesterday that is a short sale and I am very interested in putting in a offer. I am going to look at it again later today and I will be taking my brother along with me, he has worked in construction for 15+ years and works with a well-respected remodeling company in the area. I want him to give me his opinion on the condition of the house.

The house has been vacant for at least 6 months and was built in 1940, with some add-ons, and the yard is overgrown, some of the gutters are fallen off, and the electric connection from the telephone pole to the house is hanging off the house. On the inside it is dirty at first, the people just left, food still in the fridge, so that odor is nice. I looked at the ceiling and did not see any water damage. Come of the windows look new, some need replacing. It has a wood burning fireplace, with burnt logs still in it, and I have no experience with fireplaces. If it has gone without maintenance for so long, is that a costly fix?

I guess my question is, what should I look for as signs whether to back away from this house or to move forward? I know my brother will be looking at the roof and basement and furnace and stuff, but I want to know what I should be looking for myself. Thanks!

Answer
A short sale is no different than any other house... make the contract subject to an acceptable home inspection. (You will pay for the inspection but it is well worth the price in a case where there may be problems with the house).

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Why should I buy an electric fireplace?

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Jason

Are they efficient and how
Do they really work when
It is really cold?

Answer
like a portable plug-in fireplace, most are glorified space-heaters. I sold electric fireplaces for a while and they were nice, but the fake flames looked cheesy in my opinion.

I have a cool vintage one from the 1960s that's bright orange metal & very mod. But my style is mid-century.

I'd go gas, or there are some cool new ones that use a bio-fuel that burns really clean

is it cheaper to use electricty to have my wall heater on or to plug in a portable heater?

anonymity

It is so cold out and I am curious to know if it costs more to run my (not gas) wall heater or to purchase a portable heater. I really want to purchase one of the electric fireplaces that home depot sells, just wondering if it would help save my power bill.
Thank you
I am in Seattle

Answer
your wall heater should be more efficient than a plug in heater. The wall heater is most likely hooked to 240 volts which will use less energy to heat up a room than a plug in 120 volt heater. having insulated walls and attic and "newer" windows will keep the heat in. Check with your power company for windows or insulation, Most areas will pay for some of the work, depending on if your on low income or not. Good luck

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Is an Electric Fireplace Worth it?

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kat

Heating in our house is starting to get unaffordable for us. Does anyone have an Electric Fireplace in their Bedroom? Does it keep you warm at night?
Which would you recommend, electric or Fuel?
It says it uses as much Electricity as a Coffee Machine.

Answer
Having an electric fire is your bathroom would be against building regulations as electricity and water don't mix, your best option is an oil filled towel heater. I installed one last winter and left it on all the time as once they are hot they do not use much power and it kept the whole upstairs at a reasonable temperature.
Gas or coal is always cheaper than electric for all other fires, I bought my electric fires from http://www.directfiresonline.co.uk they were really helpful advising me on which ones to buy as they have different power outputs and they also got me my bathroom heater even though they don't stock them!

What should I spend my money on to increase my home value?

MJ

We are looking to refinance our home and know we need to fix some things up but want to know what the best way to go is. We heat our house with a woodstove and have some small electric heaters and an electric fireplace, but no heat pump or furnace. We have a lot of cosmetic work that needs to be done as well. The house was a fixer upper when we bought it and we have done A LOT to it. We currently have the money to put in a heat pump but we're thinking about finishing off the attic, repairing a bad patch in the roof, fencing in the yard, finally putting in all the trim and completing the cosmetic work. After that we would cash out refinance and put in the heat pump. Or we could reverse it and do the heat pump first. Which would increase my home value more, the heat pump or all of the combined cosmetic work?

Answer
The three improvements to an older home that gives the highest return on the cost of investment are:

Modernize the master bathroom

Mordernize the kitchen

Replacing all the windows

Also replacing the old garage door with a new roll up door gives a high return.

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this spring my family is going camping without my mom...?

electric fireplaces colorado springs image

Rachel

this spring break my family of 6-1 (my mom is at college), so it'll just be:
dad, 47
sisters, 18+16 (16 year old's bday, turning 17)
brother, 11
me (girl), 13

we need to know a few things first though:
where to go
-nj
-not to far from 08054
what to bring

and we want to rent camper big enough and not to expensive!
thanks! :]

Answer
There are many state and private campgrounds in NJ. Many of these are closed during the Winter, but most open in March and April, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding something nearby. With a camper you might prefer a private campground so you can have electric and water hookups for your camper (not available at state campgrounds). Many private campgrounds rent campers and cabins, or you can lookup RV Dealers to see what's available to rent. State campgrounds don't rent campers but many do have cabins you can rent.

Because it will still be cold with a chance of snow you will not be fishing and probably not canoeing or kayaking (although that can be great fun even in winter, as long as you're properly experienced and prepared). That makes the excellent Cape May area campsites less attractive, because there's not much to do when its cold at the seashore. If it were me, I'd head to the Pine Barrens in and around Wharton State Forest (Hammonton/Chatsworth area). Atsion (on the lake) and Godfrey Bridge camping areas in Wharton State Forest are good if you don't mind carrying your own water and running off battery in the camper. Cabins are available at Atsion. There are also some more isolated camping sites further in the park that are accessible via unpaved sand roads. Wading Pines in Chatsworth is a good private campground in the area.

These sand roads go all over the Pine Barrens and many can be easily traveled by a family AWD/4WD SUV or Pick-Up. Many of these roads are also listed on Garmin and Lowrance GPS Navigation Systems (not TomTom, and I don't know about others). Driving the sand roads looking for ghost towns (now just bare spots next to the road), building ruins, wildlife, geocaches, and the Jersey Devil are popular activities. There are some tiny but nice beaches along some bends in the rivers and streams in the area that are good for a picnic (or a quick swim in warmer months).

If you are willing to go farther then NJ than I would head to Florida for the warm weather and beach, but you'll be competing with all the college kids and their ideas about Spring Break. I prefer the Western and Southwestern states myself: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada; but these are too far for a one-week trip. You can also go to PA or upstate NY, but in the Spring I don't think they have more to offer than NJ.

Staying in a camper is a lot like staying in a vacation cabin or bungalow. Besides the normal stuff (clothes, soap, shampoo) you'll need to bring your own towels and flip-flops for the public bathrooms/showers, your own toilet paper, plus all your own plates, cups, napkins and utensils for eating. You might also need to bring your own pots, pans and cooking utensils. Of course you'll need food and drinks and condiments, but you'll also need dish soap, sponges, scrubbies and paper towels. Coolers for food and beverages and a small propane grill, and maybe 2-burner camp stove for cooking outside. Folding table and chairs to eat on if there's no picnic table. Lanterns and flashlights, too.

The camper (or cabin) will usually have some sort of heat (furnace in the camper, and furnace or fireplace in the cabin). You'll need to charge the battery every day or so (by hooking to the car and allowing to run until charged) to run the furnace and the lights in the camper if you don't have electrical hook-ups, and make sure you don't run out of propane. But that means you only need a normal sleeping bag (not a cold weather one) or a bedroll made of blankets for sleeping, plus your pillow (and teddy bear).

If campfires are allowed you'll need to bring your own wood, kindling and tinder (or make kindling/tinder on-site) for the fire. Don't forget hot dogs and marshmallows to roast over the fire.

Of course lots of trash bags because you have to keep a clean campsite, carry out all your trash (or place in dumpsters if provided), and put your dirty clothes in something.

For clothing you need clean underwear and socks for every day, but can wear the same pants and shirt for two or more days (hey, this is camping, not a luxury resort!). Also bring a sweater or sweatshirt and sweatpants in case it gets cold, and a warm jacket, hat and gloves. Thick socks and good hiking boots or shoes are recommended.

Binoculars, fishing pole and tackle, GPS for geocaching, camera, magnifying glass are good ideas. Each person should carry a full water bottle, brightly-colored bandanna, signal whistle, flashlight energy bar and a few other emergency items just in case something happens while out on the trail hiking or something.

That's the basics. I could go on for pages but I think you get the idea. Ask more questions if you think of them.

(BTW, I've stayed at dozens of KOA's across the country. Most are good, some are very good, but many are so-so and some downright awful. In any case, there are no KOA's in NJ.)

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Burned or Burnt?

electric fireplace 42 image

Porcelain

Which is it?

Answer
You can say I burnt dinner or I burned diner, burned is past tense, and burnt is present tense.Will burn is future tense.So you can use both depending on the tense.
burnt
âverb
1.a pt. and pp. of burn.
âadjective
2.Fine Arts.
a.of or showing earth pigments that have been calcined and changed to a deeper and warmer color: burnt ocher.
b.of or showing colors having a deeper or grayer hue than is usually associated with them: burnt orange; burnt rose.

burn1 Pronunciation verb, burned or burnt, burn·ing, noun
âverb (used without object)
1.to undergo rapid combustion or consume fuel in such a way as to give off heat, gases, and, usually, light; be on fire: The fire burned in the grate.
2.(of a fireplace, furnace, etc.) to contain a fire.
3.to feel heat or a physiologically similar sensation; feel pain from or as if from a fire: The wound burned and throbbed.
4.to give off light or to glow brightly: The lights in the house burned all night.
5.to give off heat or be hot: The pavement burned in the noon sun.
6.to produce pain or a stinging sensation similar to that of fire; cause to smart: The whiskey burned in his throat.
7.Games. to be extremely close to finding a concealed object or guessing an answer.
8.to feel extreme anger: When she said I was rude, I really burned.
9.to feel strong emotion or passion: He burned with desire.
10.Chemistry.
a.to undergo combustion, either fast or slow; oxidize.
b.to undergo fission or fusion.
11.to become charred or overcooked by heat: The steak burned around the edges.
12.to receive a sunburn: She burns easily and has to stay in the shade.
13.to be damned: You may burn for that sin.
14.Slang. to die in an electric chair: The murderer was sentenced to burn.
15.to be engraved by or as if by burning: His words burned into her heart.
âverb (used with object)
16.to cause to undergo combustion or be consumed partly or wholly by fire.
17.to use as fuel or as a source of light: He burned coal to heat the house.
18.to cause to feel the sensation of heat.
19.to overcook or char: I almost burned the roast.
20.to sunburn.
21.to injure, endanger, or damage with or as if with fire: Look out, you'll burn yourself!
22.to execute by burning: The heretic was burned at the stake.
23.to subject to fire or treat with heat as a process of manufacturing.
24.to produce with or as if with fire: She burned a hole in her dress.
25.to cause sharp pain or a stinging sensation: The iodine burned his cut.
26.to consume rapidly, esp. to squander: He burned energy as if he never heard of resting.
27.Slang. to suffer losses or be disillusioned in business or social relationships: She was burned by that phony stock deal.
28.Slang. to cheat or rob.
29.to record data on (a CD or DVD).
30.Chemistry. to cause to undergo combustion; oxidize.
31.to damage through excessive friction, as in grinding or machining; scorch.
32.Metallurgy. to oxidize (a steel ingot), as with a flame.
33.British. to scald (a wine, esp. sherry) in an iron container over a fire.
34.Cards. to put (a played or rejected card) face up at the bottom of the pack.
35.Slang. to disclose the identity of (an undercover agent, law officer, etc.): to burn a narcotics detective.
ânoun
36.a burned place or area: a burn where fire had ripped through the forest.
37.Pathology. an injury usually caused by heat but also by abnormal cold, chemicals, poison gas, electricity, or lightning, and characterized by a painful reddening and swelling of the epidermis (first-degree burn), damage extending into the dermis, usually with blistering (second-degree burn), or destruction of the epidermis and dermis extending into the deeper tissue with loss of pain receptors (third-degree burn).
38.slow burn.
39.the process or an instance of burning or baking, as in brickmaking.
40.a forest or brush fire.
41.the firing of a rocket engine.
42.Slang. a swindle.
âVerb phrases
43.burn down, to burn to the ground: That barn was struck by lightning and burned down.
44.burn in, Photography. (in printing) to expose (one part of an image) to more light by masking the other parts in order to darken and give greater detail to the unmasked area. Also, print in. Compare dodge (def. 2).
45.burn off, (of morning mist) to be dissipated by the warmth of the rising sun.
46.burn on, to weld lead with lead.
47.burn one up, Informal. to incite to anger: That attitude burns me up.
48.burn out,
a.to cease functioning because something has been exhausted or burned up, as fuel or a filament: Our light bulbs burned out.
b.to deprive of a place to live, work, etc., by reason of fire: They were burned out and had to live with relatives.
c.to wear out; exhaust; be worn out; become exhausted.
49.burn up,
a.to burn completely or utterly: The papers burned up in a minute.
b.Informal. to become angry: He burns up at the mention of her name.
âIdioms
50.burn one's bridges (behind one). bridge (def. 21).
51.burn oneself out, to exhaust one's energy, ideas, etc., through overwork or intemperance: They feared that he would burn himself out or break down.
52.burn the midnight oil, to work, study,etc., until late at night: to burn the midnight oil before final exams.
53.burn the or one's candle at both ends, to be excessively active or immoderate, as by leading an active social life by night and a busy work life by day: You can't burn the candle at both ends and hold onto a job.

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What do you do to keep warm during a winter storm without electric?

electric fireplaces 3 sided image

Mama <3

We may be getting hit pretty good with a snow/ice storm. So we arent used to this weather around here at all! If we lose power, what do we do to heat the house? We have no kerosene heaters and I dont think the fumes would be good around my baby anyway. So other than bundle up.. ??
no fireplace and no wood burning stove. no electric.

Answer
Do you have gas? Like for your water heater? That at least will give you warm water and a way to warm up (hot water bottles if you have them, if you don't then you can put rocks in hot water and let it get warm then put it in bed with you.) Also that means warm bottles and you can warm food in it.

Otherwise, what we do in that sort of situation is to everyone be in mommy and daddy's room. We close the door, bundle up with blankets, and get warm. The bodies in the room tend to make the room warmer. We've blocked windows with plastic so there's no drafts, so it really does get quite warm in there with just my husband and I, let alone my daughter and baby son. We also have a fireplace though so if it was really bad we'd probably camp out in the living room as a family and have the fire going.

If you haven't blocked your windows up yet, and have the plastic in the house, do it. If you don't have the plastic, then consider tarps, carpets, heavy blankets, etc. You can usually make one room in your house into a 'cocoon' where everyone can nestle in for warmth. Warm food will be your hardest problem. If your fridge goes out, leave it closed to keep food fresh, but eating cold food isn't going to help you stay warm as much. So if you have things like a kerosene camp stove or those little camp candle things you can heat some food up.

Hopefully you have enough in your house not to have to go out for at least 3 days, but if you do then look for cheap ways to heat food like a camp stove. The fumes aren't good for babies, you're right, but you can take it into a garage or another room (kitchen) and cook there and keep the baby in the family cocoon. Remember hats are a lifesaver for babies, as well as being laid against mom or dad (your body warmth will regulate theirs) so in a storm situation where the room is cold it isn't a bad idea at all to put the baby on your chest and let them sleep there.

Add: I do not recommend leaving your house in a storm with a baby. Not in a million years. You could try starting the car and getting the heater going and sitting in there, but even that doesn't seem wise to me. I mean... what if you drove to a friend's house an hour away and got stuck on the side of the road? Or tried to get to a motel and found it closed? Usually they beg people not to drive in an ice-storm, and being out stuck with no hope of someone coming along to find you for a day or two in a car is a LOT worse than being stuck in your home. With a baby, it's downright dangerous.

If you do need to go out for supplies or something, if there's two of you, one of you stay home with the baby. Again, an adult alone in a car stuck is better than adults and baby. Don't take a baby out in this weather unless there is absolutely no choice (as in, the house is burning down.)

A couple questions about gas fireplaces?

Monty

1. Are the unvented ones as safe as vented ones?

2. Can you light them if the electric power has gone out?

3. Are there any other safety concerns I should know about?
Also, do the tops of the vented ones get really hot? If my cat jumped on it, would she burn her paws?

Answer
Unvented gas fireplaces are as safe as any other style but you should use a heating log set which burns extremely efficiently. I've used this style for over 15 yrs. Also you must install a carbon monoxide detector in the room where the fireplace is located to be on the safe side. They can be burned without electric power and we have heated our entire house with them during power outages resulting from ice storms. Unless the top of any heating device is very well insulated it will get very hot when in use, and if your cat were to jump on top it while in use it would be a very warm pussy.

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need a project for metal shop?

electric fireplaces 42 inches image

no_regrets

i am taking metal shop next year and i need a goo metal project i could make. i like skateboarding but already made a mini ramp. my teacher suggested i make a new design for skateboard trucks. my idea is to make longer trucks that have a spring on each side of the cup to push the board up instead of the rubber bushing. if you are a skateboarder please comment on this idea. i am not sure if i want to do it though. any other ideas would be greatly appreciated. maybe some furniture would be good.

Answer
Hi:

I've been waiting for question like this? Here's your answer:

Try the following books for ideas :

Sheet Metal Fabrication Basics
by Timothy Remus


101 Metal Projects for the Novice Blacksmith: A how-to Shop Manual for Beginners
by Ken Scharabok

Decorative Wrought Ironwork: Projects for Beginners
by Thomas F. Googerty

Metal Projects, Vol. 1
by John Walker

Metal Projects, Vol. 2
by Bill Fifer

Metal Projects, Vol. 3
by John R. Walker

Metal Spinning Projects
by Smith, Earl E. Smith

Twenty-Four Metalworking Projects
by Percy W. Blandford

Giant Book of Metalworking Projects

Metalwork for Craftsmen: A Step-by-Step Guide with 55 Projects
by Emil F. Kronquist

Twenty-Four Blacksmithing Projects
by Percy W. Blandford

Decorative Wrought Ironwork: Projects for Beginners
by Thomas F. Googerty

The Complete Metalsmith
by Tim McCreight

Complete Metalsmith: An Illustrated Handbook
by Tim McCreight, McCreight

Metalworking: The Best of Projects in Metal 1990-1991, Vol. 2
by Joe D. Rice (Editor)

Projects and Designs in Metalwork
by Ian Punter

Early American Metal Projects
by Joseph William Daniele

The Metal Craft Book
by Deborah Morgenthal, Janice Eaton Kilby, Janice Eaton Kilby

Projects idea from me :


1) A metal pipe/wire bender

2) a Hammer or Judge mallet

3) a Steam engine

4) a metal lathe

5) a wood lathe

6) a One lug engine

7) a trip hammer

8) a vise or Compound Angle Drill Press Vise

9) a mechanical clock

10) a electric generator or motor

11) a forge or kiln

12) a heat treat oven

13 ) a metal wood plane

14 ) a scale model steam tractor or make it full size- really score some points for that

15. a Scale model of a working steam engine train

16) a Sawmill or bandmill

17) a screwdriver or wood chisel set

18) a bit and brace drill with home made drill bits.

19 ) a steam organ

20 ) a center punch

21) A nail punch

22) a tesla engine

23) A drill press made out of pipe fittings

24) A odemeter or mechanical counter

25) A pluse jet

26 ) a super simple CNC Machine

27) A go Cart

28) A torch or parts carrier- all metal contruction expect the wheels

29) Sheet metal Brake

30) A tap & die set

31) A slip roll

32) A 5 or 6 cylinder radial engine ( gas or Steam Powered)

33) A electro-dischage Machine ( EDM)

34) a Windmill

35 ) a small blast furance for melting aluminum,brass,bronze..ect

36) English wheel

37) A Tool box

38) A dust pan

39 ) A watch maker lathe

40) a workbench

41 ) sheet metal hole maker

42) A mailbox or holder

43) a Dust pan

44) a Cup holder

45) a whisle ( the type you blow into)

46) a Chow Chief( type you see in western movies to call the cowboys to breakfast, lunch,dinner) Triangle

47) A grill for cooking food ( like steaks)

48) a Pitcher

49) a cuttery set

50) bracelets, necklaces,ear rings - great for moms and sisters

51) Candlabras, fireplace gates, front gates, candle stick Candle holder

52) Spoon rest, Cooking rack, metal plates, knife,fork & spoon, coffee pot, coffee cup, canteen, Coffee mug rack Plate holder, caddy

53) Gun holder, fishing holder, tree stand,gun rack, fishing takle box

54) Lamp, shelf for knicknacks

55) pop can crusher

56) truck ramp

57) a Trailer

58) a tree climber spikes or tent pegs

59) a pair of truck or car stand from a twos of piece of pipes and a two inch diameter pins and Angle iron

60) a metal ladder

61) a Metal locker or broom closet

62 A wielding bench




Ash Tray, Hexagonal Ash Tray, Hammered Ash Tray, Card-Table, Match-Box Holder, Label Holder and Luggage Tag, Cookie Cutter, Sugar or Flour Scoop, Cup or Measure, Oil Measure, Recipe Box, Picture Frame, Desk or Dresser Trays, Candy or Nut Dish, Colonial Candlestick with Reflector, Colonial Sconce, Candy Dish, Candelabra, Console Candleholder, Calling-Card Tray, Dinner Bell, Napkin Ring, Bud Vase, Letter Rack, Bill File, Pie-Crust Nut Dish, Titbit Dish, Twin Titbit Tray, Triple Titbit Dish, Trophy Cup, Fruit Dish, Three-Footed Bonbon Dish, Filigree Bonbon Dish, Low-Footed Bonbon Dish, Bonbon Dish, Treat Dish, Footed Fruit Dish, Table Lamp, Painted Flowerpot holder, metal Flowerpot , Shelf, Bird Bath, Lighthouse, a combination safe a big rotary mower adjustable drafting table a gazebo, ice fishing stove, bleachers,ski-wheeler, combination safe, ice fishing stove, a Ice hole maker, brick making forms, Indexing plates,Lock and key, electric wielder (only for the very exprience metalworker and electrical knowlege needed for this project SO BE VERY CAFEFUL WHEN DOING THIS ONE), Spotwielder unit, calipers, Compass, ruler, protractor, drafting template, test jig for measuring tapers, a Morse taper test plug,Car engine hoist,a gun or pistol, trailer ,bending fork,COLD CHISEL,drill point gauge,glue scraper,Marking gauge, offset screwdriver, soldering iron ( blacksmith type), hydraulically operated bearing press, heavy duty auto ramps, do it yourself anvil,plate dog, hydraulically operated wood splitter,abrasive cut off saw ,a barbecue grill. spare tire carrier, A jobbox, woodworking dovetail pattern gauges, a window box, weather vane,annemeter, windmill, plum bobs,croll saw, a electric metal filer, a metal shaper, a woodworking shaper, a paint stirer, a snow sled, paint spray gun, a metal paint booth. a sand blaster gun and metal booth, Drill hole guide, a parts oil cleaning tank, a panograph. Metal drafting triangles 45 degrees and 30-60 degrees, a set of metal french drafting curves.candlebox with small drawer for matches that hold candles.

I hope this helps.

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Any tips for lowering the cost of heating a home with oil heat, besides turning the heat down ;-D?

electric fireplaces energy efficient image

hmm

I am thinking for next winter about possibly using space heaters. Or even an electric fireplace which would be both pleasing to the eye and warm. I live in New England.
A wood stove! Why didn't I think of this before... I guess I had to post the question to realize the answer myself... ;-D

Answer
Don't forget the old standbys: insulation, air infiltration (does your local power company offer energy audits?), poor heat circulation within a room (are you heating the ceiling while your feet freeze?), more efficient windows and/or window films, insulated draperies or shutters closed at night, and the remarkably effective old camping standby that if your hands or feet are cold, put on a hat (up to 30% of body heat is lost through the head).

The very cheapest energy is that which you do not use.

One thing you do have to be careful of with a tighter and possibly cooler house: condensation on interior surfaces is a leading cause of mold. Air to air heat exchangers can increase air circulation while retaining heat.

Whats the difference between an electric and gas furnace? as far as cost and upkeep go?

BS and tha

I'm looking at Condos right now one has a gas furnace and water tank, while the other 2 have an electric(forced air) furnace and an electric water heater.
Which is more expensive to run in terms of energy bills? Do Electric Furnaces last longer then gas? Are they cheaper to replace? Does an electric furnace use a heating element or what?(vs a gas using a flame)

The one I'm looking at still has an electric furnace from the mid 70's. Should i be worried?

Answer
Electric is MUCH more expensive to operate. It uses something called "heat strips" to provide heat. Have you ever seen a fake fireplace that provides heat by blowing air over a coil that heats up? It provides heat but is very expensive to run because it has to keep the coil red hot to provide heat. Well that's the same way an electric furnace is going to heat your condo, except it has strips that it heats up and blows air over.

I would definitely go with the one with gas heat. By the way, a forced hot air furnace can still be gas. That's what we had in New Jersey and my bills were not out of line.

A gas furnace costs more to replace, but a lot less to operate. Same with a gas dryer. It's more to purchase, but less to operate.

An electric furnace from the 70's is probably not a very energy efficient model so I would definitely think twice.

Good luck with finding your new condo and happy moving!!

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Which is more efficient? Using a gas fireplace or an electric space heater?

electric fireplaces efficiency image

John

I have a home built in 2004, masonry fireplace with metal flue and a Home Depot gas log set. My question, is whether it is cheaper to run the fireplace to add a little warmth to the den or to use a ceramic type electric space heater. From what I've read, a fireplace is very inefficient. However, gas is more efficient and cheaper than electricity. You do get a fan, oscillation, etc out of the space heater, but gas is a thermally more efficient than electricity and much cheaper. I also have a solar voltaic system that covers about 50% of my normal electricity usage, so that may also skew the real equation of relative costs.

Answer
It is more efficient to use your electric space heater unless you had a fireplace insert. After reading your question it sounds like you just have a flue and not an insert. If you only have a flue and no insert is present, then most of the heat generated by the fireplace logs is going up and out the flue. Thus, it is more efficient to run the electric space heater. In addition, you have a solar voltaic system to increase the efficiency of your electric heater. However, if you had a fireplace insert and not just a flue, then it would be more efficient to burn gas rather than run the heater.

-Miller's One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

What would be cheaper to heat a room?

Imagine Wo

I have an upgraded heater and a/c forced air system. 80% efficiency.
I also have a gas log fireplace.
The heater/ac is in the part of the house where we sleep.
We spend 80% of our time is in our family room which has the fireplace.
In the winter the family room is normally colder than the ssleeping area.
When we run the heater we heat the entire house which seems inefficient.
so we run our gas fireplace in the family room, which is not especially efficient.

would it more efficient to buy some kind of electric radiator or heat the entire house or run the fireplace?

Answer
A lot depends on where you live and the prices of your utilities. Generally your gas fireplace should be effecient to use along with your upgraded heater-a/c. I would check your past utility bills to determine what the charge is per kilowatt of electricity and compare that to your charge for usage of natural gas. Once you have those numbers you can determine if you should purchase a space heater. I would suggest that in the summer time you turn off your pilot light on your fireplace as it normally costs about 8-15 bucks a month to have on.

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Any suggestions how to start my fireplace that is neither gas or electric?

best electric fireplace corner image

You Know W

We just bought a house and the fireplace is neither gas or electric. Do I just put wood in the fireplace and open the damper. This is the first house I ever owned with a fireplace. We live in Southern California and it only gets cold in the winter. But I just want to prepare myself. Don't want to burn the house down or smoke the house if you get my drift. Any suggestions how to start my fireplace that is neither gas or electric?

Answer
First, your fire place should be inspected prior to lighting any fires. The flue should be cleaned of all creosote and to be sure no critters have nested in the flue if there was no chimney cap atop the chimney. Inspection is very important to protect the house from catching fire. After you are certain the chimney is safe, do a draft test. Open the damper. Roll up a newspaper, not too tightly. Light the paper on fire and hold in the firebox like a torch. This should cause an upward draft and show you that the chimney properly vents up the flue. Now you are ready for a real log fire.

After the inspection and draft test is complete, you are ready to begin. First, make sure there is a metal grate in the firebox. This is a raised metal grate which keeps the logs off of the floor of the firebox. On the metal grate, place a generous layer of crumpled up newspaper. On top of that, cris cross about small 8 to 10 branches (kindling). Then, add a layer of small logs. Light the fire by catching the paper on fire. The kindling will begin to burn. Without disturbing the fire too much, gently place larger logs on the burning kindling by allowing some air space between the logs for the flames to come up and lick the logs to catch them on fire. Then add more logs going in the other direction. Or, you can cheat and get a fire log at the grocery store for about $4.00. All you do is place the fake log, still in the wrapper on the grate inside the fire box and light the corners of the outer wrapper and you have an instant fire for three hours. Do not touch the log because it will fall apart and not burn as long as it should.

I sometimes save an empty paper milk carton to use as a fire starter because those cartons have a layer of wax on them and they burn really hot and make a great addition to starting a speedy fire.

Always have a fire place poker so you can move the burning logs as you add more logs to the fire.
You always have to think of safety first. Never begin a fire unless you have a fire extinguisher in the house. Move stored logs away from the fire. Do not have a rug up against the hearth. Use common sense. Have a fireplace screen so it catches hot embers from poping logs.

If you can find pine cones that have been dipped in copper sulfate, they make a fire turn really pretty shades of blue and orange.

I am not a pyro, but I have been using wood stoves and a fireplaces for more years than I care to admit here.

Does anyone have tips to help lower electricty bills?

pjgdreams

The warm weather is right around the corner (it's actually already in the 80's here in GA) and I do not want to turn the air conditioning on yet because we still have winter gas bills for another month. What are some things that can be done around the house to help cut down on electricity usage? Any tips and advice to help cut down the bills would be great!

Answer
Unplugg electric items that are generally plugged in whether used or not. For example, if you have a lamp plugged in that you rarely use, unplug it as it is drawing electricity. Also, keep your freezer stocked, it helps keep foods frozen without drawing a lot of electricity. Change your bulbs. Compact fluorescent bulbs have been substantially improved over the years and they now can be screwed directly into most fixtures. The bulbs, which sell for about $3 apiece, last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and can save $30 or more in energy costs over a bulb's lifetime.
Lower your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Industry experts say 68 degrees is the lowest indoor temperature that most people find comfortable. For each degree you lower your thermostat, you can save 3% on your heating bill.
Turn down the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered adequate or comfortable for most household needs. Lowering your water heater to 120 degrees from 150 degrees can lower your utility bill by $1.80 a month. Another water-temperature tip: Wash your clothes in the coolest water possible. About 80% of the energy used to run your washer comes from heating the water.
Keep fireplace dampers closed to lessen heating and cooling loss. An open or poorly sealed damper can draw air up the chimney even when the fireplace isn't in use.
Have your furnace maintained regularly by a professional, and keep your furnace filter and vents clean. Dirty furnace filters and vents cause the furnace to burn less efficiently.
Keep the curtains open in rooms with southern exposure during the winter and closed during the summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, south-facing windows receive the most intense light in both the summer and winter. Letting in that light in the winter will help keep your house warm; blocking it in the summer will help cool things off.
Don't run kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans for long periods. Exhaust fans will remove heated or air-conditioned air from your home if they run for more than 15 minutes after you're done cooking or running the water. You might also consider replacing your current fan to save on costs: Energy Star ventilation fans use 65% less energy on average than standard models.

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Major updating or a few new additional circuits?

electric fireplace 48 image

Robert

I am thinking of giving my finished basement (~900 sq. ft) a face-lift, including new(additional) overhead lighting and additional electrical outlets. I am curious whether I will need updating on wiring, panel (or even service capacity), or whether I might be able to just add some new circuits to my existing panel. The current panel (1961) has 100 amp service , spaces for 14 single-switch circuits, with seven of them currently in use:
A)20amp: supplying washer/dryer (gas) and electric sump pump which operates simultaneously with washer.
B)20amp: supplying refridg. , gas stove/oven and microwave.
C)15amp: supplying 10 wall outlets (3 in basement) and 4 single bulb overhead lights(1 in basement)
D)30amp: supplying A/C (new as of 2002)
E)20 amp: supplying 4 wall outlets (kitchen)
F)15 amp: supplying gas furnace (1996)
G)15 amp: supplying a wall outlet, garage door opener, and 3 single bulb overhead lights and 2 overhead fan/lights
H)15 amp: supplying 7 wall outlets (2 in basement) and 3 single bulb overhead lights
(No, I didnât wire the house, it came this way)
Currently I make use of the existing basement outlets for a dehumidifier (summertime), entertainment center and modem/router/printer on (C) and (2)electric lamps and electric fireplace on (H). I am looking to add another 4-6 or so wall outlets in the basement( for things like lamps or computers), and 6-10 florescent lighting fixtures (48â, 4 bulb, drop ceiling tile size) which will replace at least a couple of existing overhead lights.
I have only limited wiring/electrical experience, but am trying to get a rough idea of I should expect from an electrician before I call one to the house, i.e. I donât want to be âtakenâ or electrocuted. Any help/advice would be appreciated. Derogatory comments regarding my naiveteâ are welcome as well, just be kind enough to accompany it(them) by some useful/helpful info. Thanks.

Answer
it would be a good time to update your system it has some errors that i see such as: refidg. should have its own 20 amp dedicated circuit nothing else on it,the washer sould have its own while your current pannel could still be used and even the fridge and washer could be seperated and still have two open spaces left over in your pannel but consider the age 1961 thats 48 yrs old most electrical systems are 20-30 year life expectancy and now theres gfci (ground fault circuit interupter) and the recent requirement; arc fault protection in bed rooms that will probaly be required for all rooms eventually.theses are safety systems that protect you from electrocution (gfci) and fires (arc fault) in addition to grounded outlets which your system may or may not currently have.legally at least in maine you can wire your own house. but ask yourself this question: is my familly's safety important enough to me to have it professionally done? hope this helps you

Will my propane fireplace really save me money?

nuttybuddy

I have owned my house for 2 yrs now and never used the fireplace. I want to use it this year but is it worth it and will it really save me money on my gas and electric bill?

The lowest price that I have found to set it up is 242.00 which includes a 48 gallon tank, 48 gallons of gas, installation and and an annual rental fee of 64.00 and there after, 1.79 per gallon when needed

They say that the gas burns 1 gallon ever 3 hrs. If my math is correct, thats about 144 hours of heat ( burning ALL day would be 6 days)... If you have one or know more about them, please shed some light.

Answer
Gas is not that cheap. The cost of propane is close to $3 per gallon. If you have an un-vented (there is no outside air coming into your fireplace) than you will get a LOT of condensation. For every 3 hours of burn time, you will have one gallon of water emitted into your house. I have been using an un-vented gas fireplace for 4 years and just replaced my ceiling from one end of the house to the other. The mold and water that the old ceiling held was unbelievable. With vented gas fireplaces, you take a chance of not getting the correct oxygen and gas mixture. This will lead to CO (carbon monoxide) poisoning.

We will be pulling our gas fireplace out this week and putting in a wood burning stove.

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