3 Factors to Consider with Air Conditioning Installation

May 16th, 2014

Most people think Vermont homes don’t need air conditioning, but the truth is we can get quite hot and humid during the summer months. For over 20 years, HB Energy Solutions has been providing customers in southern Vermont with air conditioning installation for their properties to help them get through those hot days. When looking at air conditioners, there are a few factors to consider before choosing one. To help you narrow down those factors, our HB Energy Solutions experts have put together a list of 3 factors to consider for your southern Vermont air conditioning installation.

Does your property have ductwork?

Not too long ago, properties that didn’t have ductwork had only 2 choices for air conditioning: purchase a window unit or put in ducts, which can be a costly endeavor. But with the advent of ductless air conditioning, also known as ductless mini-split air conditioners, homes without ducts and/or those that need a home addition cooled now have access to quality air conditioning without needing to put in expensive ductwork.

How much cooling do you really need?

Bigger isn’t necessarily better when it comes to air conditioning. In fact, purchasing an air conditioning system that is too large for your home can lead to discomfort and premature wear-and-tear. This is why it’s important to do a calculation that determines exactly how much cooling your home really needs. When doing a calculation like this, several factors are considered, such as your property’s orientation to the sun, daytime heat gain and square footage. Your AC technician can do this calculation to help ensure you purchase the right-sized air conditioner for your home.

Are you concerned about energy efficiency?

All newly-installed air conditioners need to have a SEER number (seasonal energy efficiency rating) of at least 13; the scale for SEER is 0 to over 20. The higher your SEER number, the more energy efficient your air conditioner. If energy efficiency is high on your list of priorities, speak with your specialist about finding an energy efficient air conditioner that also fits your other needs.

Installing an air conditioning system is a big job that starts with assessing the kind and size of air conditioner you need. Working with your HB Energy Solutions expert can you help you answer these questions and more when it comes to your southern Vermont air conditioning installation.

Summer is almost here, so if you’ve been thinking of installing or replacing your air conditioner or air conditioning system, call HB Energy Solutions today!

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3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Circuit Breaker

May 9th, 2014

The circuit breaker panel has replaced the fuse box as a way to protect homes from the dangers of electrical fires. Whenever a circuit breaker detects an increase in voltage from an overload, the breaker trips and cuts off the circuit’s electrical flow to prevent damage. The homeowner can then easily reset the breaker to re-connect the circuit.

Although circuit breakers improve over the performance of fuses, circuit breaker panels will become outdated and require upgrades. If you have encountered recent trouble from frequently tripped breakers, or if you have a panel that is more than a decade old, you should consider scheduling a professional to investigate it and suggest upgrade options.

For Southern Vermont electrical services to help you with your circuit breaker panel, contact a trusted name: HB Energy Solutions. We have served Vermont and Southern New Hampshire with superb electrical work for twenty-one years.

3 excellent reasons to upgrade your circuit breaker panel

  1. To better handle modern electrical needs: The amount of energy the appliances in modern homes need to operate is far greater than it was even ten years ago. A circuit breaker panel older than this will not have the appropriate capacity to handle the amount of amperage that advanced devices in your home require to run, and this will lead to frequently tripped breakers. Upgrades or even a full replacement of the panel will elevate its capacity to fit your home.
  2. Increase fire safety: The main reason for circuit breakers in the first place is to prevent electrical fires due to short circuits and sparking. An aging panel that no longer fits with the outlets and the energy demands of a home can begin to turn dangerous.
  3. Convenience: Do you want to get up every other day, fumble with the circuit breaker panel, find the tripped switch, and reset it just because you turned on the TV and opened the refrigerator at the same time? Or worse, do you want to stumble in the dark looking for the panel because tripped breakers have shut off the lights during the night? Of course you don’t, and if you start experiencing this you have no excuse to keep going through these motions: just call a skilled electrician to upgrade your circuit breaker.

And, if you still have a fuse box instead of a circuit breaker panel, you should have already replaced it. Fuse boxes are rarely up to the challenge of modern electrical systems, and enlarging the fuses to handle more power is a serious fire hazard.

HB Energy Solutions has the skill in Southern Vermont for electrical upgrades and repairs of all types. We will examine your circuit breaker panel and find the best way to improve it and improve your life.

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The Necessity of Septic Maintenance

May 5th, 2014

A septic system for a home is a solution for waste disposal when regular sewage treatment plants are unavailable. The standard septic system, the one most likely attached to your home’s sewage line, consists of a septic tank, a drainfield, and the soil beneath. The tank separates solids from wastewater, a process that removes most of the disease-causing bacteria and pollutants. The water then enters the drainfield, where it trickles down into the soil, which filters out the remainder of the toxic organisms and safely releases the water into the ground.

For this system of waste management to work, a septic system must have routine maintenance. We’ll explain why this is a necessity, not merely a way to have the septic tank work more effectively. The U.S. Department of Health, Education and Public Welfare emphasizes the importance of septic maintenance to avoid the escape of disease-causing organisms.

HB Energy Solutions offers full services for New Hampshire septic systems. For pumping, maintaining bacteria levels, and other important septic system care, you can count on our team.

Why a septic system must have maintenance

The solids that gather inside the bottom of the septic tank gradually build up as sludge (bacteria consumes some, but not all). This layer of sludge must be regularly pumped from the tank. How often you need to have pumping done depends on the tank size, its age, and the volume of waste it regularly receives. You should have the tank pumped when the layer of sludge takes up 25–33% of the tank volume. Without regular pumping, the waste material will eventually flood the tank, first blocking the intake pipes and then clogging the sewage system, which can be disastrous for your home. The solids can also enter the drainfield and contaminate the soil so that the soil’s pores become blocked and stop wastewater flow. This can result in the sewage moving upward and onto the surface.

Along with pumping the tank, the bacteria levels inside the system must be maintained. Although a septic system removes bacteria from wastewater, some level of bacteria needs to remain to help digest the solids in the tank. Anti-bacterial liquids that enter the wastewater, such as detergents and bleach, can lower the bacteria level and result in sewage overflow from rapid sludge build-up.

Maintenance frequency

How often do you need general maintenance services beyond regular pumping? We advise that an average-sized family schedule septic maintenance every three to four years. Along with bacteria balancing and necessary pumping, technicians will examine the condition of the tank and drainfield for leaks and damage.

Your septic system should take care of its important job without you noticing it. To make sure it stays that way and becomes neither a nuisance nor a danger, contact a New Hampshire septic service for regular maintenance. HB Energy Solutions can handle all your septic system needs; call us today to find out about our services.

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How Often Should I Schedule Air Conditioning Maintenance?

April 29th, 2014

In the entry for maintenance found in the 2014 Random House Dictionary, this sentence appears as an example of correct usage: With proper maintenance the car will last for many years. That succinctly sums up why appliances require maintenance: longevity. It applies as much to an air conditioner as to a car. Regular maintenance catches troubles early, helps prevent repairs, and eases stress that can occur from poor operation. Although each of these is a good end in itself, they all contribute to the goal of increasing the service life of the system. In addition to regular maintenance, proper hvac installation is essential for ensuring your heating and cooling system operates safely, efficiently, and reliably for years to come. Proper installation by professionals is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and performance of heating and cooling systems.

Recommended HVAC Maintenance Schedule for Heating and Cooling Installations

  • Schedule professional HVAC maintenance at least once a year
  • Ideally, service your system twice yearly: spring for cooling, fall for heating
  • Prevents costly breakdowns by catching issues early
  • Improves energy efficiency and indoor comfort
  • Protects the longevity of your heating and air conditioning installation
  • Ensures your system is ready for peak seasonal use

Modern HVAC systems are designed to provide both heating and cooling, making them versatile solutions for year-round comfort. Many homeowners choose split systems, which feature separate indoor and outdoor units connected by refrigerant piping. Split systems are especially popular where existing ductwork is impractical, and they offer efficient climate control for both heating and cooling needs.

When considering heating and air conditioning installation, it is important to use professional installation services and hire qualified air conditioning contractors. These professionals ensure proper sizing, safe installation, and compliance with local building codes. Before installing a new system, a thorough evaluation of existing ductwork is necessary, as ductwork is essential for distributing air in central HVAC systems and impacts overall system performance and energy efficiency. The installation process typically takes 1–2 days, during which homeowners should prepare their home by clearing access paths and managing pets. Removing old equipment is a critical step for safety, code compliance, and warranty protection. Obtaining the necessary permits and scheduling inspections are mandatory in Massachusetts, and working without a permit can result in fines of up to $500. Licensed HVAC companies and contractors are required to secure mechanical, electrical, and gas permits, and homeowners should always check credentials, read reviews, and request detailed estimates before hiring. It is also important to confirm warranty and ongoing maintenance plans with your HVAC contractor for long-term system performance. Make sure your technician is EPA-certified for refrigerant handling.

Mechanical engineering principles are foundational to HVAC system design, integrating thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. The control system within your HVAC setup manages and optimizes the operation of components, improving energy efficiency and ensuring proper environmental conditions. Proper sizing of the HVAC unit is crucial—undersized units struggle to maintain comfort, while oversized units can be inefficient and costly. A local dealer can help calculate the appropriate size for your home. High-efficiency systems may qualify for rebates and incentives, and scheduling a Mass Save Energy Assessment can help homeowners access these benefits. For typical central air installations in Massachusetts, costs range from $6,000 to $12,000, with ductwork installation for a 2,000-square-foot home costing $2,000 to $5,000, depending on complexity. Proper placement and connection of indoor and outdoor units are essential for system efficiency and performance.

But how often should you schedule air conditioning maintenance in Southern Vermont? Twice a year? Every three years? We’ll take a closer look at scheduling AC maintenance to help you make certain the air conditioner in your home receives the best care.

For a maintenance plan that will ensure you receive maintenance at the right time, call HB Energy Solutions to create a plan that works for you today.

Maintenance frequency

Almost all experienced HVAC technician agree on this point: air conditioners need maintenance service annually, even if nothing seems wrong with them. A year is enough time for an AC to gather dust and dirt and show significant wear on its components. Studies have shown that an air conditioning system that goes for a year without maintenance will work 20% less efficiently, and lose an additional 5% each year thereafter. The system is also at greater risk of repair needs or even suffering a breakdown.

Regular maintenance is equally important for central heating systems and forced air systems to ensure year-round comfort and reliable performance. Proper thermostat installation and calibration are also essential for maintaining system efficiency and consistent comfort throughout your home.

The best time to schedule maintenance service is during spring, a less busy time for HVAC contractors and also right in time for the summer weather. Most maintenance plans and programs arrange for the session in spring (with an additional session for the heating system in fall).

Maintenance is not an expensive task, and most services that offer programs will provide you with a discount for signing up for a yearly maintenance plan. At each maintenance visit, the technician will provide thorough inspections, adjustments, and cleaning to keep the system operating at high efficiency. Ensuring proper air flow during maintenance is crucial, as it directly impacts energy efficiency and system performance. This increase in efficiency will more than pay for the small cost of maintenance. The best way that maintenance pays back its cost: preventing you from needing an expensive new installation because your air conditioner broke down years before it should.

Modern HVAC designs focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, using advanced technologies to regulate temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality. High SEER ratings for air conditioners and heat pumps indicate better energy efficiency and can lead to lower energy bills over time.

The installation cost for a new HVAC system can be significant. The average HVAC installation cost ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 for standard-efficiency systems, but can exceed $20,000 for larger homes with premium-efficiency equipment.

Maintenance tasks and checks

Keeping your HVAC system in top shape requires more than just scheduling annual maintenance—it’s about staying proactive with regular tasks and checks that ensure your heating and cooling equipment and all associated mechanical equipment operate at peak efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of essential maintenance steps to help you get the most out of your HVAC unit, reduce energy costs, and maintain healthy air quality in your home:

  1. Filter replacement: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost system efficiency and air quality is to replace your air filters every 1-3 months. Clogged filters force your HVAC system to work harder, driving up energy bills and putting unnecessary strain on your equipment.
  2. Coil cleaning: Both the indoor evaporator coil in your indoor unit and the condenser coil in your outdoor unit can collect dust and debris over time. Regular cleaning of these coils is crucial for efficient operation, as dirty coils can restrict airflow, reduce system performance, and increase your energy costs.
  3. Refrigerant checks: Low refrigerant levels or refrigerant leaks can seriously impact your HVAC system’s ability to cool your home. Checking for leaks and ensuring the system is properly charged helps maintain system efficiency and prevents costly damage to components like the compressor.
  4. Thermostat calibration: An accurately calibrated thermostat is key to consistent comfort and energy savings. If your thermostat isn’t reading temperatures correctly, your HVAC unit may run longer than necessary, leading to uneven heating and cooling and higher energy bills.
  5. Ductwork inspection: Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork can waste a significant amount of cooled or heated air, making your system less efficient and increasing energy costs. Inspect your ducts for leaks or damage, and make sure they’re properly sealed and insulated, especially in unconditioned spaces. Proper ductwork also ensures optimal performance by distributing cooled air evenly throughout your home for maximum comfort.
  6. Outdoor unit maintenance: The area around your outdoor unit should be kept clear of leaves, grass, and other debris to ensure proper airflow. Restricted airflow can cause your system to overheat and operate inefficiently, so regular checks are essential for optimal performance. Outdoor air should be able to circulate freely around the unit to help maintain system efficiency.
  7. Indoor unit maintenance: In addition to changing filters, keep the indoor unit’s drain pan and condensate line clean to prevent water damage and maintain system efficiency. Proper drainage is vital for both system performance and indoor air quality.
  8. Electrical connections: Regularly check and maintain all electrical connections, including wiring and disconnect boxes, to ensure safe and efficient operation. Faulty or loose electrical connections can lead to system failures or safety hazards.
  9. System performance checks: Monitor your HVAC system’s temperature, humidity, and airflow regularly. If you notice any irregularities—such as uneven cooling, weak airflow, or unusual noises—address them promptly to avoid further damage and unnecessary energy costs. Be alert for signs of malfunctioning systems, such as gas leaks, smoke, or exposed wires, and seek professional help immediately to prevent hazards.
  10. Fresh air and outdoor air intake: Ensure your ventilation system brings in adequate fresh air and outdoor air to maintain indoor air quality and meet health standards. Proper regulation of fresh air intake is important for occupant comfort, safety, and energy efficiency.
  11. Ensuring optimal performance: Schedule regular maintenance and professional inspections to ensure optimal performance of your HVAC system. This includes checking all mechanical equipment, system components, and controls.
  12. Professional maintenance: While many tasks can be handled by homeowners, scheduling annual maintenance with a licensed HVAC professional is essential. A professional technician will perform a comprehensive inspection, cleaning, and tuning of your system, catching potential issues early and ensuring your HVAC unit operates efficiently and safely.
  13. Testing and commissioning: After maintenance or installation, professionals will test and commission your system to confirm it operates correctly and efficiently. This includes checking for leaks, verifying airflow, and ensuring all components function as intended.
  14. Record keeping: Keep detailed records of all maintenance, repairs, and replacements. This helps you stay on top of scheduled tasks, track your system’s performance, and make informed decisions about future upgrades or replacements.

By staying on top of these maintenance tasks and checks, you’ll help your HVAC system deliver reliable, efficient operation year-round. Not only will this keep your energy bills in check, but it will also extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure a comfortable, healthy home environment. For complex maintenance or repairs, always rely on a qualified HVAC professional to ensure your system operates correctly and safely.

Energy efficiency and savings

Energy efficiency is at the heart of any well-designed HVAC system, directly impacting your energy bills, comfort, and environmental footprint. Whether you’re considering a new HVAC system or looking to get the most out of your current air conditioner or heat pump, focusing on energy efficiency can lead to significant energy savings and a healthier home.

One of the most effective ways to boost energy efficiency is by choosing high-efficiency HVAC equipment. Modern air conditioners and heat pumps with elevated Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings are engineered to deliver powerful cooling and heating while using less energy. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system—translating to lower energy costs and a reduced impact on the environment. Investing in an energy-efficient HVAC unit may come with a higher initial installation cost, but the long-term savings on your energy bills often outweigh the upfront expense.

Proper HVAC installation is just as important as the equipment itself. A professional HVAC technician will ensure your new system is correctly sized for your home, with well-sealed ductwork and properly installed refrigerant lines. This attention to detail prevents common issues like refrigerant leaks and airflow problems, both of which can undermine system performance and drive up energy costs. Professional installation also ensures your system complies with local building codes and operates at peak efficiency from day one.

Ongoing maintenance is essential for preserving the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Even the most advanced air conditioning equipment can lose efficiency if not properly maintained. Tasks like keeping refrigerant lines in good condition, ensuring the evaporator and condenser coils are clean, and checking for any signs of wear help your system operate efficiently and avoid unnecessary energy waste.

When you invest in a new HVAC system, the potential for energy savings is substantial. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioner can cut your cooling energy costs by up to 20%, while a high-efficiency heat pump can reduce heating costs by as much as 30%. These savings can help offset the average HVAC installation cost, and many utility companies offer rebates or incentives for installing energy-efficient systems, making the investment even more attractive.

In summary, prioritizing energy efficiency when selecting, installing, and maintaining your HVAC system is key to reducing energy bills, improving comfort, and minimizing your environmental impact. By working with experienced HVAC professionals and choosing high-efficiency equipment, you can ensure optimal system performance, long-term energy savings, and a more comfortable home for years to come.

Sign up for maintenance today

You can contact HB Energy Solutions or download our maintenance plan to see how you can protect your Southern Vermont air conditioner with maintenance. Get started before spring ends and the summer heat arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How often should I schedule air conditioning maintenance?
Answer: Most experienced HVAC technicians agree that you should have your air conditioner professionally serviced at least once a year. Annual maintenance helps catch problems early, prevents costly repairs, improves efficiency, and prolongs the life of your system.

Question: Why is spring a good time for AC maintenance?
Answer: Spring is ideal because it’s just before the heavy cooling season. A spring check‑up ensures your system is clean, well‑tuned, and ready to handle high temperatures without unexpected breakdowns or reduced efficiency.

Question: What does a professional AC maintenance visit include?
Answer: During a maintenance visit, a technician performs a thorough inspection, makes needed adjustments, and cleans key components. This helps your system operate efficiently and reliably and often pays back its cost through energy savings and fewer repairs.

Question: What are the benefits of scheduling AC maintenance regularly?
Answer: Regular maintenance improves energy efficiency, prevents unexpected breakdowns, reduces repair costs, and extends the useful life of your air conditioner. It also contributes to consistent cooling performance and can save money over time.

Question: Is it okay to skip maintenance if my AC seems to work fine?
Answer: No. Even if your air conditioner appears to be working well, skipping maintenance can let dirt and wear accumulate. Without regular servicing, efficiency drops and the risk of failures increases, potentially leading to more expensive repairs later.

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Is a Standard Storage Tank Water Heater Sometimes a Better Choice?

April 18th, 2014

If you know about tankless water heaters, then you’ve probably learned about their numerous virtues and why many so many homeowners prefer them. Tankless water heaters never run out of hot water, take up less space in a home, and run much more energy-efficiently than standard storage water heaters because they lose less heat and do not require steady energy to keep water in a tank warm.

However, not everyone has called up their local plumbing company to install a tankless heater. Traditional storage tanks still sit in many homes, and new ones are installed every day. The reason for this is that some homes won’t receive the full benefits of a tankless water heater, and a storage water heater makes better economic sense for them.

Whether a traditional or tankless system will work for your house is something that requires a Southern Vermont plumbing professional to help answer. HB Energy Solutions has kept homeowners in Vermont warm and comfortable for more than 20 years; you can place your trust in us to guide you to your home’s best option for hot water.

Why a storage water heater is sometimes better

Tankless water heaters are more expensive systems to install: anyone considering one for a home needs to balance the upfront costs with the long-term savings. Sometimes, a storage water heater will save more money than a tankless one.

Here’s something to consider: tankless system do not tend to endure as long as storage systems. This means that the amount of money you’ll save from a tankless system depends more on how much hot water your household uses on average rather than how long the system stays around. If you do not use a large amount of hot water, you may not receive significant savings from a tankless system before it needs replacement. Consult with an installer, who can check on your household hot water use to see if a storage water heater may be a superior choice.

Another factor to consider: although tankless water heaters don’t “run out” of hot water, they have trouble keeping up with high volume hot water demands. Proper sizing can help minimize this problem, but larger households might be better served by a high capacity tank water heater.

Professional installation

When factoring the pros and cons of the two systems, they come up about equal: tankless water heaters have high efficiency and unlimited hot water; storage water heaters have convenience and lower installation costs. Your own water use and your budget plans will be the deciding factors, but professional installers will help you feel certain of your choice. And, of course, they’ll install it as well.

Call HB Energy Solutions, your Southern Vermont plumbing experts, to talk about water heater installation today.

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Why Frost on an Air Conditioner is a Problem

April 10th, 2014

Here’s something you might notice on your air conditioner one day: on the indoor unit, an accumulation of ice and frost starting to develop across the coils. People who spot this condition on ACs often dismiss it. The air conditioner is supposed to send out cold air, and it uses refrigerant, just like a refrigerator does. So… shouldn’t a little ice be normal?

It’s not, however. Ice forming along an air conditioner is a sign that it needs professional repairs. The air conditioner has a major fault, and the longer the ice remains on the system, the more in danger the system is of failing to provide any cool air at all to a home.

This problem requires the work of a trained repair technician to remedy it. For the work necessary to get your air conditioning in New Hampshire working again, call HB Energy Solutions today.

The Problem with Frost

The development of icing along the coils of an air conditioner usually warns of one of two problems: a loss of refrigerant or dirt along the coils.

The refrigerant in an air conditioning system is a blend of chemicals that shifts between liquid and gas as it cycles through the system, absorbing heat from the indoors and then releasing heat to the outdoors. Refrigerant is necessary for the heat exchange that makes an air conditioner cool down a space. Refrigerant does not dissipate during normal operation, but leaks can cause its level (known as its “charge”) to drop, which jeopardizes heat exchange.

The reason this causes ice to form along the indoor (evaporator) coil is that low refrigerant leads to low pressure, which causes the refrigerant to cool down too much when it evaporates. The extra cold from the refrigerant causes the water vapor along the coil to freeze. This further restricts heat exchange, and the ice growth continues. If the problem isn’t fixed (a repair technician can seal the leak and recharge the refrigerant), eventually a solid ice block will cover the coils and no heat exchange can take place at all.

Dirt developing along the coils will also make it harder for the coil to absorb sufficient heat, and frost will start to form, leading to the same chain reaction concluding in heat exchange loss.

In neither case will scraping the ice from the coils solve the problem. The ice isn’t the initial problem, but a symptom of it. Trust the work to repair experts who are familiar with this issue.

HB Energy Solutions has assisted New Hampshire with air conditioning repairs and maintenance for over 21 years. When you need help, done fast and right, contact our AC specialists—one call does it all!

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Who Invented Modern Solar Power?

April 3rd, 2014

We’ve sometimes heard people ask “Who invented solar power?” The answer is simple: the Sun invented solar power. As long as our solar system has existed, the star at the center of it, a massive engine of hydrogen and helium, has radiated energy to the planets.

However, if we narrow the question down to “Who invented modern solar power?”, the answer grows trickier. No single individual who can take all the credit for the solar cells we use today to capture the energy of the Sun and turn it into electricity.

Nonetheless, there are some key figures in the history of solar cells we can highlight. To receive the benefit of their amazing innovations in your home, call HB Energy Solutions for clean, renewable solar power in Southern Vermont.

A short history of solar energy as a source of electrical power

In 1839, French physicist A. E. Becquerel observed the photovalic effect: voltage or electric current created in material that is exposed to light. The next step came with the chemical element selenium; in 1877 W. G. Adams and R. E. Day published a paper in Britain on the photovalic effect in solid selenium. Eleven years later, Anglo-American chemist Edward Watson patented the “solar cell,” and Russian physicist Aleksandr Stoletov created the first solar cell based on an outside photoelectric effect. More patents followed in the U.S.

In 1904, German physicist Wilhelm Hallwachs used copper to make a semi-conductor solar cell, and it was the “Hallwachs-Effekt” that later became known as the photoelectric effect. The next year, the most famous name in the timeline of solar cells appeared: Albert Einstein published a paper to explain the Hallwach-Effekt as part of quantum physics. The photoelectric effect was at last proved in 1916 by Robert Milikan.

During the 1920s, solar power started to enter homes for the first time, although on a limited basis, when solar water heaters using flat-plate collectors were used in Florida and Southern California. In the 1950s, Bell Labs began to produce solar cells for space exploration using the growth of single-crystal silicon developed over the previous four decades, and they announced in 1954 the “first modern silicon solar cell.” The media started to report on solar power as a major mover in the future of energy.

In the 1960s, Hoffman Electronics increased solar cell efficiency, while spacecraft made use of solar energy for almost all their operation. In 1974, J. Baldwin developed a building in New Mexico that was exclusively heated and powered through solar and wind power. During the 1970s energy crisis, research into solar power as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels increased.

The rise in solar cell research has—so far—reached its peak in 2008 when the U.S. Department of Energy’s Renewable Energy Laboratory created the most efficient solar cell yet, with 40.8% efficiency.

No single person can take the credit for modern solar power’s creation, and at a certain point it became too broad field. But one thing is certain: your home can benefit from the free power of the Sun through photovalic cells. Call HB Energy Solutions and talk to our experts in solar power in Southern Vermont today.

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The 2 Types of Sump Pumps

March 28th, 2014

A sump pump is often a necessary tool for homes that suffer from moisture entering the basement due to a high water table. They are also invaluable during heavy rains when additional water can flood into the lower parts of a home. An effective sump pump will protect your basement from the growth of mold, mildew, wood rot, and prevent other kinds of damage that water and humidity can cause to building material.

A sump pump must have professional installation to make sure that it works correctly, has an adequate sump (water collection pit) excavated, and connects to a waste line for water removal. You also need to have professionals help you decide on the type and size of sump pump you need. There are two basic sump pump types: the pedestal sump pump and the submersible sump pump. They both have advantages and disadvantages, so you will need the assistance of a plumbing professional to help you choose the right one for your home.

For sump pump installation, repairs, and maintenance, call on the company with 21 years of experience working on plumbing in New Hampshire, HB Energy Solutions.

Pedestal sump pumps

The first type of sump pump sits above the sump on a specially-constructed pedestal. A hose from the pump runs down into the sump, and an impeller motor in the pump draws the water up and removes it. These kinds of sump pumps are easier to repair because they’re exposed, and they also cost less than submersible pumps and endure longer. However, pedestal pumps need to work harder to overcome gravity when drawing water, and they are less effective at dealing with the large amounts of water that can come from rain flooding.

Submersible sump pumps

As the name implies, submersible sump pumps sit down inside the sump itself beneath the surface of the water. They draw water directly into intake valves. To prevent water damage, the motor is sealed inside a water-proof container. Submersible pumps are less obtrusive and take up less space in your basement, and they operate more quietly because they are submerged underwater. They pump faster than pedestal pumps and will do a better job for basements that encounter more serious flooding. However, they cost more than pedestal pumps and will require more repair work because of their exposure to water.

You will not only need professionals to help you choose and install the proper sump pump for your basement, you will also need them to regularly maintain the pump (especially a submersible pump). Call HB Energy Solutions for the skilled plumbing service in New Hampshire that will keep your basement dry with the right sump pump.

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Why Install a Wood Stove

March 19th, 2014

Wood stoves are centuries old and continue to provide reliable heating for communities all over the world. Installation isn’t expensive and can provide an excellent auxiliary form of heating as well as a number of other advantages. Why install a wood stove? We have several answers that we think you’ll agree with.

  • Efficient. Wood stoves provide an excellent and inexpensive form of heat. They require nothing more than wood to run, which means you can use them when the power goes out, and because of their nature, they are much more efficient at distributing heat than traditional fireplaces. That makes them a quick, cheap and easy way to keep warm during the winter.
  • Environmentally friendly. Wood stoves produce up to 70% less particle pollution than fireplaces according to the EPA, as well as dropping CO2 and methane emissions to a minimum. All of that comes on top of the fact that they consume no fossil fuels and don’t require electricity. That makes them a very eco-friendly option to warm your home.
  • Safer. Wood stoves cut down on the build-up of creosote in the chimney, making them a safer option for heating than fireplaces.
  • Cozy and romantic. The aesthetic value of a wood stove cannot be underestimated, especially in a snug cabin or home on a cold winter’s night. Wood stoves provide an easy gathering place for the family, as well as a spot for a romantic dinner. All of that helps improve the resale value of your home, providing an easy selling point when the time comes to sell the house.

For more information on why you should install a wood stove, or to schedule installation in Southern Vermont or New Hampshire, contact the experts at HB Energy Solutions. We have years of experience and we’re dedicated to your complete satisfaction throughout every step of your wood stove installation. Pick up the phone and give us a call to set up a consultation today. You’ll be glad you did!

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It’s Not Just Lightning! Causes of Power Surges

March 12th, 2014

Power surges are both inconvenient and potentially damaging to your house and possessions. They can cause a loss of power in your home, and will inflict injury on appliances—particularly complex devices like computers and home entertainment systems. You want to do as much as you can to protect your home and possession from surges along the power lines.

It’s a popular misconception that power surges are only catastrophic events that occur because of storms and downed power lines. These will indeed cause surges—but there are other, more common causes. And power surges don’t have to be major events; they can occur numerous times during a day without you noticing them. To help guard against these surges, contact our technicians in all things electrical in Southern Vermont at HB Energy Solutions.

What causes power surges?

  • Catastrophic events: We’ll start with the most obvious ones. Lightning storms can cause massive overloads when a bolt strikes near a power line. A lightning bolt can boost electrical pressure by millions of volts, and that’s enough to overpower almost any system—as well as local plug-in surge protectors.
  • Electrical demand from high-powered appliances: Lightning is one of the less common causes of power surges. The most common is from sudden demands on your power from a large system like an air conditioner or a refrigerator. When one of these appliances makes a large power demand, it upsets the steady voltage flow of the system. You may barely notice this (a slight dimming of lights), but it will cause cumulative damage to other appliances throughout your home.
  • Faulty wiring: When you experience a more severe power surge (one not due to a storm) leading to an outage, the cause could be trouble with the wiring somewhere in your home. This is a serious problem because of the potential for fire damage, so contact an electrician to see where the faults are and have the necessary re-wiring done.

Whole-house Surge Protection

You should definitely have power strips for your important devices, such as your computer. However, you need to have extra protection from surges, and only whole-house surge protectors in your breaker boxes and circuit panels can do the full job. You will need electricians to install this for you. For electrical services in Southern Vermont, trust to the over two decades of experience at HB Energy Solutions.

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Posted in Electrical | Comments Off on It’s Not Just Lightning! Causes of Power Surges

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