June 2020 (164)
NEW VIDEO:
The Role Of The HVAC Plenum
The plenum plays a critical role in your HVAC system and when optimized will help with comfort and energy efficiency. The plenum brings in and distributes conditioned air throughout the house via ductwork. Jim discussed with Glen Gebauer of Berkeys the importance of the plenum being sealed properly to prevent leaks.
Serving DFW
Serving the Houston Area
Your Questions -- Jim's Answers
Extended Warranties
A listener asks Jim if she should get the extended warranty for a new AC system.
Clearing a Clogged AC Condensation Line
If a pipe in your eaves is dripping water that indicates a problem in the attic - most commonly the condensation line in the AC system is clogged. Jim describes how to clear it and prevent it for happening in the future.
Hurricane Season is Here. Are You Ready?
Quick list of items to review now that hurricane season is here:

  • Get the right insurance - know whether your home is in a flood zone area. If you are, consider investing in flood insurance. Your typical homeowner's policy usually won't cover damage caused by hurricane-related floods.
  • Make a complete list of all your possessions, including outdoor items. List lawn furniture, patio umbrellas, grills, tools and toys. This can help your insurance broker ensure you have enough insurance to replace any damaged items after a hurricane.
  • Confirm that your hurricane shutters are in good condition. If you do not have hurricane shutters, consider installing them. You can also replace your windows with hurricane glass. Both will provide protection from shattering glass during strong winds. 
  • Secure and seal your roof - it all starts with the roof - so get it checked and make necessary repairs or modifications.
  • Check seals on windows and doors.
  • Clear your gutters. Clean gutters can prevent damage to your home during long periods of heavy rain.
  • Remove dead or damaged trees, especially those near the house. Pick up and dispose of all limbs, sticks and other debris on or near your property.
  • Secure/anchor porches and carports.
  • Clear the lawn – or have a plan to – walk the yard and make a list of those items that need to be stashed when a hurricane is approaching.

Remember: Your own safety is more important than protecting your home, so staying behind when others are evacuating is never a good idea.

Additional Resources:
TexasReady.gov - Texas Health and Human Resources
InspectToProtect.Org - Know the building codes in your area
Flash.org - DIY projects to help prepare your home
Managing Household Hazardous Waste
As a homeowner protecting Texas from hazardous waste is a serious responsibility. The Texas Commission On Environmental Quality is a excellent resource for helping Texans properly manage household hazardous waste (HHW).

What is HHW?  
Some leftover or used household products contain chemicals that can present safety concerns if not managed properly. These products are often called household hazardous waste (HHW) and can include items like:
  • Corrosive cleaners (such as drain cleaner and lye-based oven cleaner)
  • Fluorescent light bulbs (including CFLs)
  • Fuels (gasoline, propane, diesel)
  • Mercury
  • Paints (oil-based or some anti-mildew latex)
  • Pesticides
  • Pool chlorine and acid
  • Wood stains or varnishes
If generated by a household, these materials are not required to be handled as hazardous waste and can often be placed in your regular trash. However, residents often seek to dispose of their HHW in a more protective manner.

What do I do with it? 
Many communities in Texas either have HHW drop-off facilities or hold HHW collection events for their residents. The TCEQ maintains a list of ongoing programs and individually scheduled events posted on our  HHW Program Contacts  page.

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Thanks for listening -  Jim Dutton