Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC?

   

According to Energy Star, certain telltale signs indicate it's time to consider replacing heating and cooling equipment, or improving the performance of your overall system. It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:

 

Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old.

Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

 

Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.

Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. If you have a boiler, consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified boiler that is 5% more efficient than a new, standard model.

 

Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up.

Your cooling or heating equipment my have become less efficient.

 

Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.

Improper equipment operation, duct problems or inadequate insulation could be the cause.

 

No one is home for long periods of the day and you do not have a programmable thermostat.

Install a programmable thermostat or have a good contractor install one and instruct you on its use - to start saving energy and money while you're away or sleeping.

 

Your home has humidity problems.

Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.

 

Your home has excessive dust.

Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Sealing your ducts may be a solution.

 

Your heating or cooling system is noisy.

You could have an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

 

Your score on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.

That means your energy use at home is above average and you're probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.

CCI is a Class A licensed contractor for the complete renovation project, including plumbing, HVAC, and gas fitting. Give us a call or send us an email if you it's time to replace your HVAC system.

Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC?

According to Energy Star, certain telltale signs indicate it's time to consider replacing heating and cooling equipment, or improving the performance of your overall system. It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:

Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old.

Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old.

Consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified furnace, which is 15% more efficient than a conventional furnace. If you have a boiler, consider replacing with an ENERGY STAR qualified boiler that is 5% more efficient than a new, standard model.

Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up.

Your cooling or heating equipment my have become less efficient.

Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.

Improper equipment operation, duct problems or inadequate insulation could be the cause.

No one is home for long periods of the day and you do not have a programmable thermostat.

Install a programmable thermostat or have a good contractor install one and instruct you on its use - to start saving energy and money while they're away or sleeping.

Your home has humidity problems.

Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.

Your home has excessive dust.

Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Sealing your ducts may be a solution.

Your heating or cooling system is noisy.

You could have an undersized duct system or a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

Your score on the Home Energy Yardstick is below five.

That means your energy use at home is above average and you're probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.

Spring Has Arrived in Richmond!

Spring has finally arrived in Richmond!

As the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it's time to assess any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring home improvement projects - both cosmetic and structural.

Here are 7 home improvement projects that are perfect for a spring home makeover and yield a big return on investment by adding to your house's resale value.

1) Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  

Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck or the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

If you already have a great outdoor living space, check for any damage that needs to be repaired with your patio, deck or porch. Now is also the time to clean and restain your deck.

2) Upgrade or maintain your HVAC System  

Before it gets too hot, it's a good idea to make sure your AC unit is working properly. On a warm April day, switch the AC on for a couple minutes. Check all vents to ensure that each one is working properly. If your AC seems weak or is not working correctly, give CCI a call. We offer simple checks and tune-ups, which can ensure that there are no problems.

If your HVAC system is old, you might want to consider investing in an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. This is a great way to live green and add value to your home. Many modern air conditioners use 30 to 50 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners from the 1970s, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. CCI is a licensed HVAC contractor, and we can meet with you to discuss options for upgrading your HVAC system.

Now is also the time to change your filters; consider a whole house high efficiency filter system.

3) Check your windows for drafts or damage  

A drafty window or two in the middle of summer can raise your cooling energy consumption and bill. One option is to get new windows installed, and while this means more initial costs, it will save you money in the long run. CCI can meet with you to discuss your needs when it comes to replacing windows.

If replacing windows isn't in your budget right now, you can try to fix the old ones. You can use sealants, both permanent and temporary, to get rid of any draughts around your windows.

Take a walk around your house and visually inspect all of your windows. While you're at it, take a look at the window sills and trim for any signs of water damage or deterioration. Painting or replacing damaged window trim is another home improvement project that yields big results.

4) Install an attic fan and/or insulate your loft  

Summer heat from your home will rise and may result in your upper floors being substantially warmer than your first floor. Ways to keep your upper floors cooler include installing an attic fan and ensuring that your loft is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while or your home wasn't quite as warm this winter as you would have liked it to be, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it up if you need to. Adding an extra layer of fiberglass insulation is another easy home improvement project and can help make cooling your home this summer much easier.

5) Repair or replace your roof  

Your roof is your home's number one defense against the elements. Even a small issue can lead to major damage indoors if moisture is allowed to enter your attic and walls through cracks and creases. Take a look at your roof from the ground to see if any shingles have been blown out of place or if there is curling, peeling and even disintegration of the shingles.

6) Clear and repair gutters and downspouts  

With spring comes rainy weather, so now is the time to make sure that your gutters don't overflow and your drainpipes are clear of debris. The fall will have seen leaves and tree debris fall into your gutters, and moss often grows in gutters and downpipes during winter. Make sure that any moss is removed as young seedlings will grow in moss in spring. Also, if your gutters have been damaged by storms over the winter, it's important to get them fixed before spring showers and summer storms roll around since heavy rainfall can pose a problem for your home come spring if the water is not being properly routed by your gutter system. Now is also the time to consider installing gutter guards to keep fall leaves from clogging your gutters.

7) Update your siding  

Your house's siding can get damaged from winter weather, so be sure to inspect it for damage this spring. Replacing a warped or loose piece of siding is a home improvement project that can be completed by a do-it-yourselfer. However, if your siding is older, you might also consider updating your siding with a more energy-efficient and easy to maintain product.  CCI offers free consultation on all home siding projects.

Here at CCI we can help you ensure that your home is ready for spring and summer. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.

Groundhog predicts six more weeks of winter

Punxsutawney Phil predicts six more weeks of winter, so if you haven't already done so, it's time to make sure your home is ready. Here are some items to check on to ensure your house is prepared for winter weather.

Inspect Your Home's Exterior

Walk around your home and visually inspect the exterior. You'll want to replace any missing roof tiles or fix any other damage. When checking your gutters and drains, you'll want to be sure these are free of leaves and other materials that might cause a clog as leaves and tree debris may have fallen into your gutters during autumn.

Examine Your Foundation

Inspect your property's foundation. Check for any holes where pests may be hiding as even very small holes can allow a tiny mouse to get inside. While performing this inspection, clear away any dead or dying vegetation from your foundation.

Check for Drafts

Check each of your home's windows and doors looking for any gaps that create drafts, as these will reduce your home's energy efficiency causing you to pay more each month for heating. You can use sealants, such as caulk and weather-stripping, to stop the drafts.

Service or Replace Your Heating System

By now you've probably turned on your heat to combat the wintry temperatures outside. You'll want to change your filters and have your heating system serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently. You'll also want to have your boiler serviced, which should be done once a year, to minimize the chance of a breakdown when you most need it. If your system is over 10 years old, you should consider an upgrade. 

If you have an outside air conditioner, you'll also want to winterize it by covering it to protect it from collecting dead leaves, dirt, and other debris. If you have a window unit, remove it and clean it before storing it for the winter months.

Insulate your attic and pipes

As you know, heat rises. This winter you'll want to make sure it doesn't escape from the top of your house by ensuring that your attic is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it off if needed.

It's also important to insulate your water pipes to protect them from freezing in winter, ensuring you don't cut off your water supply and preventing pipes from bursting and damaging your home. Pipe insulation is easy to install and repair, especially for any pipes that are exposed. But even a water pipe that is close to an external wall can freeze in cold weather, so it may be sensible to check all of your pipes and insulate them.

Prepare Your Fireplace

These rainy, wintry days are great for a fire. Be sure the fireplace damper mechanism is working properly. If your fireplace has not been cleaned recently, hire cleaners to remove old soot in the chimney. Make sure the fireplace damper mechanism is working properly.

Clear Your Yard and Outdoor Living Spaces

Even though you won't spend much time outdoors this winter, you want to make sure your yard is prepared for the cold months too. Put away hoses, gardening tools, outdoor furniture and barbecues. If you notice that any trees are touching your house, trim them back to protect your property from breaking branches during windy storms. Also be sure to clear leaves from your patio and deck as they will become slimy and slippery as they disintegrate during the winter.   

CCI is the premier remodeling company for the distinct needs of home renovation projects in Richmond. We are a Class A licensed contractor for the complete renovation project, including plumbing, HVAC, and gas fitting, as well as building. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

Green Heating Products We Love

Green products include those that use less energy, produce less waste, contain recycled materials, or contribute to a healthier environment. At CCI, we are committed to using these products whenever we can. We are proud to offer and install Slant/Fin high efficiency boilers. Slant/Fin makes its boilers, providing heating for water-based (as opposed to forced-air) home heating, here in the USA. Cabinetry & Construction is the only Slant/Fin Certified Hydro-Master in Central Virginia. Rinnai as certified CCI as a dealer and installer of Rinnai tankless water heaters. Conventional water tanks store hot water, heating and re-heating, and constantly losing energy up the vent and through the walls of the tank. Tankless water heaters run only when you use hot water, shutting off immediately when done, saving energy. NuTone has certified us as a dealer and installer of their heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning products. The NuTone ecoLogic product line includes split-system air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, self-contained air conditioners, and dual-fuel units. With NuTone products you can find total home comfort with accessories such as humidifiers, electronic air cleaners and filters, and ultraviolet lights. NuTone also makes control accessories, zoning products and programmable thermostats. See www.nutonehvac.com for more information about their product line, including the highest efficiency heat pump on the market, the NuTone iQ drive.

Are You Ready for Fall?

Now that we've celebrated Labor Day, it is time to start preparing for Fall. That includes getting your home prepared for cooler temperatures. 

If your HVAC (heating and air conditioning) system is at least 6 months old, schedule a tune up to ensure maximum efficiency for year-round savings. If your system is over 10 years old, you should consider an upgrade.

The benefits of either a tune-up or an upgrade include 

• lowering your energy bill, 
• increasing your home's energy efficiency, and 
• improving your comfort.  

As a licensed HVAC contractor, CCI is able to offer you several options to take advantage of this optimal time to invest in a quality heating and cooling system.

It is also time to be thinking about the house projects you want to finish before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

If there is a project that you are hoping to complete this year, now is the time to begin! As a design/build contractor, I will meet with you personally to provide a proposal and help you bring your vision to life.

Because we design and build, you can rest easy, knowing that the project plans and budget will be consistent with the final result and you will have a singular point of contact keeping you in the loop as things move along. Our complete, design/build custom contracting services focus on bathroom and kitchen remodeling; additions and whole house renovations; and historic restoration projects. 

CCI is the premier remodeling company for the distinct needs of home renovation projects in Richmond. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

Home improvement projects for spring and summer

As the days get longer and the temperatures get warmer, it's time to assess any winter damage to your home and make plans for spring home improvement projects - both cosmetic and structural.

Here are 7 home improvement projects that are perfect for a spring home makeover and yield a big return on investment by adding to your house's resale value:

1) Add or upgrade your Outdoor Living Room  Now that we are finally getting warmer temperatures, do you have an exterior space where you can enjoy the outdoors with friends and family? If not, now is the time to build your dream deck or the outdoor kitchen you've always wanted, restore your front porch, or add a wrap-around or screened-in porch. CCI can help you design the space and build a top quality outdoor living room that you can enjoy this spring, summer and fall.

If you already have a great outdoor living space, check for any damage that needs to be repaired with your patio, deck or porch. Now is also the time to clean and restain your deck.

2) Upgrade or maintain your HVAC System  Before it gets too hot, it's a good idea to make sure your AC unit is working properly. On a warm April or May day, switch the AC on for a couple minutes. Check all vents to ensure that each one is working properly. If your AC seems weak or is not working correctly, give CCI a call. We offer simple checks and tune-ups, which can ensure that there are no problems.

If your HVAC system is old, you might want to consider investing in an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. This is a great way to live green and add value to your home. Many modern air conditioners use 30 to 50 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners from the 1970s, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. CCI is a licensed HVAC contractor, and we can meet with you to discuss options for upgrading your HVAC system.

Now is also the time to change your filters; consider a whole house high efficiency filter system.

3) Check you windows for drafts or damage  A drafty window or two in the middle of summer can raise your cooling energy consumption and bill. One option is to get new windows installed, and while this means more initial costs, it will save you money in the long run. According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com), window replacement has one of the top returns on investment when it comes to adding to your house's resale value. CCI can meet with you to discuss your needs when it comes to replacing windows.

If replacing windows isn't in your budget right now, you can try to fix the old ones. You can use sealants, both permanent and temporary, to get rid of any draughts around your windows.

Take a walk around your house and visually inspect all of your windows. While you're at it, take a look at the window sills and trim for any signs of water damage or deterioration. Painting or replacing damaged window trim is another home improvement project that yields big results.

4) Install an attic fan and/or insulate your loft  Summer heat from your home will rise and may result in your upper floors being substantially warmer than your first floor. Ways to keep your upper floors cooler include installing an attic fan and ensuring that your loft is insulated adequately. If your attic hasn't been insulated in a while or your home wasn't quite as warm this winter as you would have liked it to be, check the thickness of your insulation and replace or top it up if you need to. Adding an extra layer of fiberglass insulation is another easy home improvement project and can help make cooling your home this summer much easier.

5) Repair or replace your roof  Your roof is your home's number one defense against the elements. Even a small issue can lead to major damage indoors if moisture is allowed to enter your attic and walls through cracks and creases. Take a look at your roof from the ground to see if any shingles have been blown out of place or if there is curling, peeling and even disintegration of the shingles.

6) Clear and repair gutters and downspouts  With spring comes rainy weather, so now is the time to make sure that your gutters don't overflow and your drainpipes are clear of debris. The fall will have seen leaves and tree debris fall into your gutters, and moss often grows in gutters and downpipes during winter. Make sure that any moss is removed as young seedlings will grow in moss in spring. Also, if your gutters have been damaged by storms over the winter, it's important to get them fixed before spring showers and summer storms roll around since heavy rainfall can pose a problem for your home come spring if the water is not being properly routed by your gutter system. Now is also the time to consider installing gutter guards to keep fall leaves from clogging your gutters.

7) Update your siding  Your house's siding can get damaged from winter weather, so be sure to inspect it for damage this spring. Replacing a warped or loose piece of siding is a home improvement project that can be completed by a do-it-yourselfer. However, if your siding is older, you might also consider updating your siding with a more energy-efficient and easy to maintain product.  CCI offers free consultation on all home siding projects.

Here at CCI we can help you ensure that your home is ready for spring and summer. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free estimate on the project that interests you.

Partner Profile: Slant/Fin

Founded in 1949 in the back of a bakery in Coney Island, NY, Slant/Fin is the largest U.S. manufacturer of baseboard heating equipment. They also manufacturer gas and oil boilers. 

CCI is proud to offer and install Slant/Fin high efficiency boilers. Slant/Fin boilers, providing heating for water-based (as opposed to forced-air) home heating systems, are made in the USA. CCI is the only Slant/Fin Certified Hydro-Master in Central Virginia.

If you have been considering upgrading or converting your heating system, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the tax credits made available for energy-efficient heat to your home. These tax credits are only valid for systems installed through December 2013. (You can read more on these tax credits here.)

The benefits of an upgrade include:

• lowering your energy bill,
• increasing your home's energy efficiency, and
• improving your comfort.

As a licensed HVAC contractor, CCI is able to offer you several options to take advantage of this optimal time to invest in a quality heating and cooling system.

Upgrade Your Heating and Air Conditioning

This summer we saw heat waves with the heat index registering over 100 degrees, as well as fall-like conditions.  Who knows what the weather will have in store for the Richmond area over the next few weeks and months.   

If your HVAC system is at least 6 months old, schedule a tune up to ensure maximum efficiency for year-round savings.

If your system is over 10 years old, you should consider an upgrade. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of the tax credits made available for energy-efficient heat and and cooling upgrades to your home. These tax credits are only valid for systems installed through December 2013. (You can read a description of these tax credits as described by the Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute here.)

The benefits of either a tune-up or an upgrade include:

• lowering your energy bill,
• increasing your home's energy efficiency, and
• improving your comfort.

As a licensed HVAC contractor, CCI is able to offer you several options to take advantage of this optimal time to invest in a quality heating and cooling system.

Not Just Remodeling -- Think of us for Home Care & Repair

Over the years, many of you have called on us for minor home repairs, but we've never formally announced this aspect of our business. We have now officially launched our Home Care & Repair Division. We want to be your one-stop shop for repairs, maintenance, or improvements to your home.

You know Rob and Cabinetry & Construction as people you've entrusted with working on your home. Chances are you chose us to create a luxurious master suite, a gourmet kitchen, or a seamless addition, but we offer services beyond large-scope remodeling.

In fact, in these uncertain economic times, a major remodeling job may be the furthest thing from your mind. But, one thing is certain: you need to maintain the investment you've made in your home, and you need a company you can rely upon to help you to do so. Cabinetry & Construction, Inc., is licensed and insured, unlike many who advertise themselves as handymen. Besides being a Class A remodeling contractor, CCI holds licenses in the plumbing, gas fitting, and HVAC trades. So, if you need a repair, whether it be carpentry or installing a new water heater or A/C, CCI's Home Care and Repair Division has the skills and credentials to do the job right.

Upgrade Your Heating and Air Conditioning

The heat of summer is here, and with it come the additional stresses upon your air conditioning equipment that translate into additional stresses on your pocketbook. Now is the perfect time to take advantage of the new tax credits made available for heating and cooling upgrades to your home. As a licensed HVAC contractor, we are able to offer you several options to take advantage of this optimal time to invest in a quality heating and cooling system.






Robert Wright, CR, CGBP, CAPS
804-497-3491

Our Greenest Option

If you are interested in a system with the the highest possible efficiency, we offer WaterFurnace geothermal heat pumps. Geothermal heat pumps use the consistent temperature of the earth rather than the ambient air temperature to heat and cool your home. The tax credit for a geothermal heat pump is 30% of the total cost, without a cap of $1,500. Please call us if you would like more information.

Tax Credits & You

The recently passed American Reinvestment and Recovery Act allows homeowners to claim tax credits for new high efficiency heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. You can claim a tax credit of up to thirty percent of the cost to install a new system, not to exceed $1,500. We carry Amana and Goodman HVAC systems, which use 410-A refrigerant, which is chlorine-free and environmentally friendly. If you already have central air in your home, replacing your existing system typically takes two days. You'll be able to reap the benefits of an air conditioning system that is more economical to run this summer AND get a tax credit. There's never been a better time to upgrade your HVAC system than now.

HVAC & Plumbing

Many of our clients are not aware that we are licensed as a Plumbing, Gas Fitting, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) contractor, as well as being a Class A building contractor. We can be your one-stop shop for all remodeling projects. Not Just Cabinetry.

Green Remodeling

As you may know, Rob is certified as a Certified Green Building Professional (GCBP) through the National Association of Home Builders. According to the NAHB, the "designation recognizes builders, remodelers and other industry professionals who incorporate green building principles into homes- without driving up the cost of construction."

We have decided to continue our commitment to environmental best practices by utilizing email for the majority of communications with clients and friends.

In the spirit of "going green," we'd also like to share some information about our environmentally aware repertoire:

• We are certified dealers and installers of Rinnai tankless water heaters. Conventional water tanks heat and store hot water around the clock, heating and re-heating water, and constantly losing energy up the vent and through the walls of the tank. A tankless water heater comes on only when hot water is used, and shuts off immediately when done, saving energy. All Rinnai tankless units are either LP or natural gas fired.
• We are certified dealers and installers of WaterFurnace geothermal heat systems. WaterFurnace is a natural heat pump system that taps in to the consistent underground temperature of the earth. WaterFurnace products are environmentally friendly, efficient systems that can reduce heating, cooling, and hot water costs by up to seventy percent. One of the best ways to get value for your home improvement project is to select products that have low usage costs.

Other "green" products we recommend include:

• Energy star rated appliances
• Energy star rated windows
• Watersense rated plumbing fixtures
• Upgraded insulation packages
• Richlite counters
• Marmoleum flooring
• Concrete counters
• Recycled, natural floor products
• James Hardie siding products
• Paperless drywall
• Whole house ventilation
• Solar heating
• Cabinetry made with FSC wood
• Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints

As you may be aware, Governor Kaine is proposing tax credits for those who install green energy systems such as solar heating and geothermal heating. Let us help you help the environment and your pocket book: give us a call today about making your home more environmentally efficient.