Take Care with CFLs - Where to Recycle them

CFL- Compact Flourescent Lights have become the new norm for light bulbs. I think most of us feel good about using them knowing that we are saving energy. Many light fixtures already include CFL bulbs in the box when you purchase them from the box stores. All good news for our electric budget.

Just the other day, I replaced a small flood light in the kitchen with a CFL floodlight. When I turned the light on I thought something was wrong with the new bulb. It barely gave any light and took quite awhile to warm up and begin to glow with full strength. Now I realize that CFL floods have not been perfected. Next time I'll be looking for an LED flood which won't have the delay -

Years ago, we were used to seeing workers throw the tube bulbs out without caring when they shattered into dumpsters. We've come a long way in that regard as well. Take care when disposing of old CFL bulbs. They do contain a very small amount of mercury.

If a bulb breaks- Clear the Room! People and pets should leave. Open a window/door for 5-10 minutes. Don't use a vacuum unless you absolutely have to-If you do, then immediately place the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag. The preferred disposal method is to use tape to pick up small pieces etc. Place glass and any powder residue into a sealed container which should be kept outside of the home for trash disposal.

Recycle your old CFL bulbs- I've noticed that Lowe's and Home Depot as well as our local Ace Hardware store here in Traverse City have recyling bins for used bulbs. If everyone took advantage of this recycle program it would make a difference in our environment. That's the "green" in me coming out- I just can't help myself.

Nancy with Grand Bay Building and Remodeling http://www.grandbaybuilding.com/

Tax Credits for Energy Saving Home Improvements

No need to feel left out of the IRS tax credit stimulus plan if you already own your home. There are 2 deductions you may be able to take if your improvements focus on energy savings.

First, the Existing Home Retrofit Tax Credit (25c) has been expanded and covers up to 30% of the cost of products you have installed this year and next. This $1,500 credit is now available through the end of 2010. Items which qualify are HVAC's (heating and cooling), insulation, water heaters, windows and doors as long the products meet the IRS qualifications.

Let Grand Bay Builders assess your home as professional remodelers, to find the best methods for savings energy for your particular residence. It is important to verify that your improvements will qualify for the credit.

The second tax credit now available thru the year 2016, is the Wind Solar Geothermal, Fuel Cell Tax Credit (25d). This credit will cover geothermal heat pumps, solar panels, solar hot water heaters, small wind energy systems and fuel cells. The up front cost may be higher on these energy improvements but the credit is 30% on these as well with no cap on the cost thru 2016.

As this year's remodeling season heats up, consider taking advantage of these tax credits to reduce your home's energy footprint and reduce your utility bills.

Call us for more information or visit:
www.energystar.gov
www.nahb.org/efficiencytaxcredit

Nancy Lisabeth
Grand Bay Builders
231 995 9057

Drafty Window and Door Solution

We recently solved the drafty window problem in our waterfront cottage with just a few hours of time. While strong direct winds were blowing off the water, we gently pried off the trim and exposed the almost empty spaces around the windows. Fiberglass insulation had proven inadequate to block strong driving winds. Using the Great Stuff Pro product, I filled the cavities using the applicator, allowed the product to cure and nailed the trim back on. Success!!
I suggest doing this while the winds are strong- you will easily locate any areas that need more foam- and what a great feeling to have solved the problem. I also insulated around the electrical plugs and switches that were leaking – However, I caution that power must be turned off to those areas- no kidding!!! If you don’t know how – trust a professional to do this for you. - This is definitely worth the effort -Nancy

http://building.dow.com/na/en/products/sealants/gspwindowdoor.htm
(http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11270).