Complete Home Security, Safety and Maintenance

by David Woodsmall

Last Updated: 4/06/2023 - Optimized for Firefox 110.0.1 - (Quantum)
COPYRIGHT 1992 thru 2023 - David R. Woodsmall

If this is a real Emergency, dial 911 on your telephone (in the USA)

I ASSUME NO LIABILITY - You do things at your own risk
COMPLETE COMPUTER SECURITY INFORMATION

INDEX - Jump to Home Security Topics
AFCI | Air Conditioning | Air Conditioning | ANT Insecticides (killers)| Appliance Power Consumption | Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters | Asbestos | Automation - Home | BIRD Repellents | BITES - Treating & Identifying Braided Hoses leak less |
BTUs to WATTS | Burglary Prevention | BTUs to WATTS | CARBON MONOXIDE - Detecting & Poisoning | CAT Repellents | CGFI | CHIPMONK Repellents | CIRCUIT BREAKERS - Our House Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) | COMPUTER SECURITY | COMPUTER VIRUS Information | CONTRACTORS - Reviews of Home Contractors, Handymen, Maintenance People | Cost of Living Elsewhere | Crestron DEER Repellents | DISASTER PREPAREDNESS | DISH WASHER - WATER TEMPERATURES | DO NOT CALL LIST - OPT OUT | Excess Flow Valve, or EFV - Emergency (natural) GAS cutoff | Electrical Home Wire COLORS | Electrical House Wiring | Electronics - Home Remote Control | Emergency Escape Ladders | Emergency Tools | Energy Efficiency (Home) | EXPLOSIVE GAS |
FIRE DETECTORS | FIRE EXTINGUISHERS | FIX / REPAIR | FLASHLIGHTS - Emergency | FRAUD, Consumer Problems | Freezing Pipes - Prevent | Furnaces | GAS DETECTORS (natural, Propane, etc. gas) | N95 Particulate Masks | N100 Particulate Masks | GFI | Geothermal Heat Pumps | Generac whole House Generators - OURS | Generators, Natural Gas | Generators, Capacity | Generators, (User) Groups | GFI/GFCI | GOLPHER Repellents | GROUNDHOG Repellents | Heat Pumps |
Heat Tape | Home Safety | Horse Power (HP) to WATTS | Hot Water | Hot Water Heaters | HOUSE VALUE & TAX INFO | HOW Stuff Works | HOW TO... | Humidifiers / De-Humidifiers / Humidity | Humidity References | Humidity in PRESSURE TREATED WOOD | HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS | HVAC | INSPECTIONS, Testing, Diagnosis, Repair | INSURANCE | Kitchen Telephone Wiring (its BACKWARD) | LAWN Care | LCDI - Leakage Current Detection and Interruption | LEAD-FREE Water Hoses | MOISTURE | MOLE Repellents | MONOPOLIES - who owns what Appliance Company | MOSQUITO Repellents & Insecticides (killers) |
Motion Detectors and Fluorescent bulbs | N95 Particulate Masks | N100 Particulate Masks | National Electrical Code (NEC) | NATURAL GAS DETECTORS | Norwall Power Systems (home generators) | OPT OUT | Other Resources | Personal Use, Information for YOUR | PEST Control | Pipe Heat | Plastics - Safe & UNsafe Types | PLUMBING | POTABLE (drinkable - safe) Garden Water Hoses | (electric) Power Cleaners / Filters - 120 VOLT AC | Power Consumption | Power Consumption - Standby | POWER - Convert units of Power | PROPANE DETECTORS |
RABBIT Repellents | RACOON Repellents | RADON | RADIOS - Emergency | RCCB | RECALLS | ** RECOMMENDATIONS - PC & PERSONAL SECURITY** | REPAIR | RINNAI Tankless Water Heaters | Save Energy at Home | SCALDING WATER TEMPERATURES | Security (Computer) | Security Door Hinges | SEVERE WEATHER | Silver Ions | SKUNK Repellents | Slingshot power/generator | SMOKE DETECTORS | SpyWare | SQUIRREL Repellents | Standby Whole House Generators | Sterling Generators | Street Light Repair in the Carolinas |
Surge Protectors | Surge Protectors - WHOLE HOUSE | Tax Rebates - HVAC | Timers - OK for CFLs | TONs to WATTS | TOOLS (hand, info, power, wood,...) | TOOLS - DISCOUNT | UPS | UPS - Changing UPS settings for FREQUENCY DRIFT | Utility Lines - Mark before you Dig | UV - Ultra Violet Lights | VIRUS Info (Computer) | WATER HEATER - SCALDING TEMPERATURES | WATER LEAKS - INSIDE HOUSE |
WATER LEAKS - OUTSIDE HOUSE | Water Filteration - Preppers / Families / Indivduals | Water Purifiers, OTHER | WaterSense - EPA water efficiency ratings | WATER TEMPERATURES - DESIRED | WATER TEMPERATURES - DISH WASHER | WATER TEMPERATURE SCALDING | Whole House Standby Generators | Whole House Standby Generators - CAPACITY / SIZE, ESTIMATING | Whole House Standby Generators - CONSIDER these THINGS |
Whole House Standby Generators - REQUIRED changing UPS settings for FREQUENCY DRIFT | Whole House Standby Generators - FORUMS & GROUPS | Whole House Standby Generators - OURS is a Guardian Generac Model #5243 | Whole House Standby Generators - REVIEW of Guardian Generac Generators |
Whole House Standby Generators - COST & INSTALLATION | Whole House Standby Generators - COST to RUN | Whole House Standby Generators - MAINTENANCE | Whole House Standby Generators - MANUFACTURERS of | Whole House Standby Generators - LOCAL (RTP, NC) STORES | Whole House Standby Generators - INTERNET STORES | Whole House Surge Protectors | WIND-UP Emergency Flashlights & Radios | Wiring | X-10 | ZigBee |
ARC FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERs
AFCIs should not be confused with ground fault circuit interrupters or GFCIs. GFCI devices are designed to provide protection from electric shock (really to prevent electgricution)/ AFCIs are intended to address fire hazards. Combination GFI/AFCI circuit breakers will become available eventually - so far, 6/2017, I have not seen them. I HAVE NOW SEEN THEM AT HOME DEPOT = 12/24/2017 Not related to AFCI, The NEC recommends a voltage drop of no more than 5% when a heavy load is applied to any electrical circuit. GFCI and AFCI Explained, Home Inspection, Real Estate Inspection New Arc Fault Circuit Breakers Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter - Product Information Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters and the 2002 National Electrical Code Article 210.12 Arc-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel Arc-fault circuit interrupter - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia What is an AFCI? - (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) Applying and Using Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters Circuit Breaker Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter Suppliers ... Arc-fault circuit interrupter: Information From Answers.com Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) Fact Sheet Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection of Bedrooms AFCI receptacle outlet See also: Electrical Home Wiring See also: GFI - Ground Fault Interrupter MORE ABOUT AFCI, CFGI and GFI - Click HERE>
ASBESTOS
WE ARE NOT DOCTORS NOR PEOPLE WITH UNUSUAL KNOWLEDGE OF ASBESTOS - WE ASSUME NO LIABILITY. CONSULT PROFESSIONALS. THIS IS ALL THIRD-HAND INFORMATION OF UNKOWN VALIDITY. EXPOSURE TO ASBESTOS CAN PAINFULLY KILL YOU. Soffits & guttering will almost certainly be "White Asbestos" which shouldnt be covered by the dangerous material acts (Blue & Brown Asbestos are bad news and should be removed only by a specialist contractor at vast cost) - Mark J on Yahoo.com. Asbestos is dangerous in all its crystalline forms. Breaking asbestos can create deadly asbestos dust. Anyone have any knowledge of asbestos removal?- Mark J Asbestos in North Carolina: Asbestos Hazard Management Program Asbestos Removal Requirements - wa.gov Do-It-Yourself Asbestos Abatement - Mesothelioma and Asbestos Cancer Home Tips - Is Asbestos Removal Required? Mesothelioma SOS - Proper Asbestos Removal WE ARE NOT DOCTORS NOR PEOPLE WITH UNUSUAL KNOWLEDGE OF ASBESTOS - WE ASSUME NO LIABILITY. CONSULT PROFESSIONALS. THIS IS ALL THIRD-HAND INFORMATION OF UNKOWN VALIDITY. EXPOSURE TO ASBESTOS CAN PAINFULLY KILL YOU.
AUTOMATION (Home)
Automation "Standards"
Crestron Insteon WireFreeHD WirelessHD Wireless HDMI Wireless High definition Interface (WHDI) X-10 Z-Wave ZigBee
AUTOMATION - Resources
smarthome Crestron Electronics: Home Automation, Building and Campus Control home-automation.org Home automation - wikipedia Home Automation - Coolest Gadgets Home Automation Index (getting old) - homeautomationindex Homeautomation Store Home Automation, Programmable Lighting, and Home Security Products Reader's Voice: An Introduction To Home Automation HomeToys - The Home Technology Information Source Home Automation, Inc Linux Home Automation X10.com - Security Cameras, X10 Home Security Levitron - Home & Residential Lighting Automation - Leviton Lighting Controls Home Automation/Environmental Control/Electronics NEWS GROUP: comp.home.automation
BURGLARY PREVENTION
Burglary Prevention Council See also Security Door Hinges
BRAIDED HOSES CONTROL TOILET & WASHER HOSE LEAKS
Coming soon...
CARBON MONOXIDE - Detecting & Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide is NOT lighter than air, but will mix with air, so Carbon Monoxide may be Found at any level in a room. Additionally, if the carbon monoxide was produced by faulty heating equipment, it will be warm, so it will tend to rise therfore, carbon monxide detectors are typically mounted near the ceiling (12 inches down), BUT can be mounted anywaywere - I would place at least one CO detector near (about 15 feet away from) the (gas or propane) furnace to minitor for leaks. Use at your own risk. I SUGGEST USING MODELS FROM SEVERAL MAJOR COMPANIES, JUST IN CASE THEIR ARE DIFFERENCES IN EFFICIENCIES OR UNKNOWN PROBLEMS. CAVEAT EMPTOR I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS.. You can buy Carbon Monoxide Detectors, also Natural Gas Detectors. Thirty-five PPM of COHb in an 8 hour period, is the maximum exposure allowed by OSHA in the workplace. Carbon monoxide poisoning is often confused with "flu like symptoms" such as headache, nausea, dizziness. SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISIONING I use three different models of CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS: 1] One type plugs into an outlet, but HAS BATTERY BACKUP. 2] The other type that I use is battery only, and I mount it much higher (near the ceiling), as Carbon Monoxide is lighter than air. Both types that I use, retain the highest reading detected, so I can tell if any problems occurred when I was not there to hear the alarm. 3] I also have a third type of Carbon Monoxide Detector - it detects both Carbon Monoxide and Natural Gas, the NightHawk model KN-COEG-3: Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Alarm - AC Powered w/Battery Backup Price: $52.00 This combination alarm protects against two deadly threats, carbon monoxide and explosive gas such as propane and natural gas. The 900-0113 features a hide-a-way cord that allows for multiple installation possibilities. * Protection from two deadly threats * Digital Display * 9V battery back up * Hide-a-way cord * Test/Reset Button * Loud 85dB Alarm * Low Battery Warning * Easy Installation * 5 year limited warranty * DATA SHEET * USER MANUAL I also use NATURAL GAS DETECTORS, to warn me of any natural gas leaks in the house. I use multiple Kidde Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Alarm #900-0113 - $53 Consider an emergency escape ladders. You might consider emergency (windup) flashlights that do not need batteries. Asphyxia - asphyxiation Carbon Monoxide Alarms - Kidde (at Lowes, Home Depot,...) CO - FAQ - Kidde STORM-RELATED FIRE AND CARBON MONOXIDE RISKS Storm-related Fire & CO Risks Carbon Monoxide and Density What is the Best Location for Carbon-Monoxide Detectors? Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Carbon monoxide - wikipedia Avoiding Carbon Monoxide poisioning NY City, and other cities, now requires Carbon Monoxide Detectors in homes. See also Emergency Escape Ladders See also Fire Extinguishers See also FIRE Detectors See also Natural Gas Detectors See also SMOKE Detectors
CONTRACTORS / HANDYMEN / MAINTENANCE - check them out first
NOTE: You are required to have your utility lines marked before digging in your yard (no, not garden digging - digging for some kind of constuction). Angies List - Home Service contractors reviewed & rated by homeowners like you Kudzu.com - now in Atlanta and will soon (9/2006) be in San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix
CRESTRON
Crestron Electronics: Home Automation, Building and Campus Control Crestron Electronics - Wikipedia
DO NOT CALL PHONE NUMBER LIST - United States
NO Telemarketers
Cell numbers are NOT published (in phone books). However, you can now register your cell phone number. Register land-line and cell phone numbers for no telemarketing Your registration will not expire. Telephone numbers placed on the National Do Not Call Registry will remain on it permanently due to the Do-Not-Call Improvement Act of 2007, which became law in February 2008. Read more about it HERE. You can now register your CELL PHONE number for do not call (same place, see above), just note that cell phone numbers are NOT published, so it is much harder for a company to look up your cell number and call you.
OPT OUT - eMail, Catalogs, regular Mail & Phone Numbers
DMA Choice - Getting off commercial mail lists OPT out of Catalogs - catalogchoice.com DMA Choice - eMPS - Getting off commercial Email lists DO NOT CALL registration
ELECTRONICS - HOME ELECTRONICs - REMOTE CONTROL
X-10 Home Automation ZigBee Home Automation Free Downloads - Thinking Home - X-10 Scripting
EMERGENCY ESCAPE LADDERS
NOTE: if you have any bedrooms not on the ground floor, consider getting an emergency escape ladder that you can fasten to the window or balcony to allow people to safely escape. Remember, when picking an escape ladder, that it might need to both reach the ground and have enough length to securely attach to something - in other words, you might need a longer emergency ladder than you think that you need. Many places sell these ladders, even Sears.
EMERGENCY TOOLS (I've not seen them)
On-Dut - Shuts off Gas, Shuts off Water, Pries Open Doors, & Digs through Debris UNfortunately, I'm finding that my new wireless water Meter does NOT have a valve that I can use to shut off all my water (as did the old meter).
FIRE and SMOKE DETECTORS
USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE You should always use both Fire and Smoke Detectors, WITH BATTERY BACKUP, in case of a power failure. As a precaution, I like to use models from more than one manufacturer - some may actually work better than others. There are essentially two types of "fire" detectors: 1] Smoke Detector - uses a photolectric detector to detect slow smoldering fires. 2] Fire Detector - uses an Ionization Detector to detect fast flaming fires. I use both types, and some units combine both types of detectors in one unit (for example, a Kidde Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm, Model #PI9000). Kidde/NightHawk also makes a battery operated smoke detector that communicates wirelessly (by radio waves) with other such detectors Kidde Wireless Model RF-SM-DC. When one detects a fire, they all sound their alarms - thus even if you can't hear the detector that noticed the fire in the basement, you can hear the fire detector outside your third floor bedroom. I like and use these wireless detectors. Kidde also has remote (wireless) sounders (Model RF-SND - Wireless Sounder) that will sound an alarm when notified by the wireless smoke alarms. Some Detectors have lights that shine when smoke or fire is detected, lighting the way to safety. Some detectors talk, and tell you what kind of problem has been detected. See also Carbon Monoxide Detectors See also Natural Gas Detectors See also Emergency Escape Ladders See also Fire Extinguishers Useful Fire Safety Links (I don't know about them) Forest Home Fire Safety
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
CLASSES:
A = Wood and paper - ordinary combustibles. B = Flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil, etc. C = Electrical fires - this class does not have a numerical rating. See also Emergency Escape Ladders See also Carbon Monoxide Detectors See also FIRE Detectors See also Natural Gas Detectors See also SMOKE Detectors
FRAUD/Consumer Problems
FRAUD Page We mostly use the combination Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas (natural gas, propane,...) detectors: Knighthawk Carbon Monoxide alarm and EXPLOSIVE GAS ALARM (Dual purpose detector) It's white, plugs into AC. You can use included six foot cable to reposition the alarm. AC plug in line cord allows for high mounts (natural gas) and low mounts for (propane). It also has a nine-volt battery backup. I get these at either Lowe's or Home Depot (ONLY of these chains carry it). I can often get it at Target. It's either $50 or $60 (I forget). ($51.49 @ Target) You have to be careful, as it looks exactly like their cheaper Carbon Monoxide detector. It has a digital readout of the Carbon Monoxide level (and retains highest Co2 level seen). The Knighthawk allows use of the other plug in your two plug outlet amd looks great. NOTE some of these Knighthawk units rarely give off false alarms - I replaced those and have no problems with them. You probably want the: Knighthawk Model KN-COEG-3 or consider the uglier, takes your complete outlet, but has not been reported to generated false alarms: First Alert Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Detector (GC01CN) from ACE Hardware - $60 The First Alert unit also has a built-in AC cord, to allow repositioning. I SUGGEST USING MODELS FROM SEVERAL MAJOR COMPANIES, JUST IN CASE THEIR ARE DIFFERENCES IN EFFICIENCIES OR UNKNOWN PROBLEMS. I use multiple Kidde Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Alarm KN-COEG-3 P/N #900-0113 - $53 Consumer Guide: Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm KN-COEG-3 Review Kidde KN-COEG-3 Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Alarm p/n 900-0113 Fact Sheet These run on 120 volts AC WITH Battery backup. I bought most of ours at Target, but I see that both Lowes and Home Depot are starting to carry tme again (11/2007). I use them near the natural gas fireplace, hot water heater, stove, furnace and natural gas standby electric generator. I also have one on each floor of the house, near the bedrooms. First Alert Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Detector (GC01CN) - $60 - ACE Hardware Install a CO detector/alarm that meets the requirements of the current UL standard 2034 or the requirements of the IAS 6-96 standard. Carbon Monoxide Detectors - UL Standard 2034 New Standard For Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can Save Hundreds Of ... AGA: CPSC Evaluation of CO Alarms Repeats Industry Results ... - up to 60% of the alarms tested failed to meet this criterion of the UL 2034 standard Reference Standard 17-13 UL No. 2034, Standard for Single and ... - PDF UL 2034 - protechsafety A Guide to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Buying a Carbon Monoxide Detector - What You Should Know Before ... Carbon monoxide detector - wikipedia. Top 5 Carbon Monoxide Detectors - about.com Natural Gas is composed mostly of Methane and is MUCH LIGHTER than air. This means that your gas leak detectors should, ideally, be placed about 12 inches BELOW the ceiling. Propane is the most commonly used Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), so the term LP-Gas is often used to mean Propane. Propane is MUCH HEAVIER than air, and will collect at the BOTTOM OF THE FLOOR - therefore if you use Propane, you should place your gas detectors near the floor (this information is supplied couresy of Kidde). What You Need to Know About Natural Gas Detectors - nih.gov Explosive gas/vapor limit - wikipedia Consider buying both Smoke and Fire Detectors, with BATTERY BACKUP. Consider buying Carbon Monoxide Detectors if you use any form of combustion for heat. You might consider emergency (windup) flashlights that do not need batteries. Consider getting an emergency escape ladder. What You Need to Know About Natural Gas Detectors Natural Gas Safety
GAS (Particulate) MASKS - Type N95
NIOSH-Approved N95 Disposable Particulate Respirators
USE INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I assume NO liability
From what I read, gas masks rated N95 are as potent as a Civilian needs. Masks are rated for protection against different air-bourne problems. As far as I can tell, masks certified to be N100 compliant are the most potent that we can buy without going to military types. I use my N95 masks for protection against pesticides, herbacides, paint and other air-bourne particles - about $45 ??? as I remember (it has replaceable filter catridges). These masks are available at any home repair parts store. Look for NIOSH N95 on the package; the N95 is a government efficiency rating that means the mask blocks about 95 percent of particles that are 0.3 microns in size or larger. Type N100 also exists - filter efficiency of 99% or greater against particulates free of oil. FLU NIOSH-Approved N95 Disposable Particulate Respirators - Suppliers List N95 Masks Flying Off Shelves, but They Offer Scant Protection France Prepares For Avian Flu Pandemic Tyvek Suit and N100 Facemask - A Practical Test Surgical Helmets and SARS Infection http://www.approvedgasmasks.com
GFI - Ground Fault Interrupter (also called GFCI and RCCB)
The purpose of a GFI is to stop the flow of current if the ground fails. Typical 120 & 240 volt outlets in the US have three prongs: 1) Hot 2) Common 3) Ground The Ground is a highly desireable safety feature. AFCIs should not be confused with ground fault circuit interrupters or GFCIs. GFCI devices are designed to provide protection from electric shock. AFCIs are intended to address fire hazards. Combination GFI/AFCI circuit breakers will become available. While we use the terms GFI or GFCI (same thing) in North America, technically these are RCCBs - residual current circuit breakers. RCCB also called GFI or GFCI - wordiq Keeping it Safe See also: AFCI - Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters See also: Electrical Home Wiring
NATURAL GAS, COMBUSTIBLE GAS and PROPANE GAS DETECTORS
Combination Methane, Propane & Natural Gas Detectors
USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE
You can buy Explosive Gas Detectors. These detectors will alert you to the presence of leakage of both (non-contained) natural gas and Propane in your house. /AFCI/CGFI/GFI/ You can NOW (12/2017) get an outlet that is both a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) and an AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter - shuts down if arcing is detected on the electrical circuit), on the same Circuit breaker built into one OUTLET. An arc fault is an unintended arc created by current flowing through an unplanned path. Arcing creates high intensity heating at the point of the arc resulting in burning particles that may easily ignite surrounding material, such as wood framing or insulation. The temperatures of these arcs can exceed 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. I am not sure if they have yet created a combo GFI/AFCI Circuit Breaker. You can add a GFI outlet to an AFCI circuit breaker protected circuit (I have some) to be protected for both problems (ground fault and AFCI). AFCI is a new product, designed to detect when a line is getting too hot. GFCI and AFCI Explained GFCI Electrical Outlets - A GFCI outlet (GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt) is a special electrical outlet device that provides much greater protection from electrical shock than a standard electrical outlet does. Think of a GFCI outlet as a small, ultra sensitive circuit breaker that is built right into the outlet but it does not guard against fire, but against human electrocution. it should be called an 'Anti-Electrocution Device'. AFCI Electrical Outlets - AFCI protection is much like a GFCI outlet, but it protects against an entirely different potential danger. Sometimes, certain types of electrical appliances will be used to convert electricity into heat. Sometimes, these devices will also cause heating where the device plugs into the wall. This is called arcing. You sometimes see it when you quickly unplug a heating appliance, like a clothing iron, from an outlet while it is switched on. Electrical arcs can also be caused when someone drives a nail through a wire that is in a wall (like when hanging a picture) or by mice or squirrels who like to chew on electrical wiring. I also have some power strips with an AFCI built into them. Very scarce - I don't know how well they work. NOTE: I use small, cheap, handeld Infra-Red HEAT DETECTOR. I got mine from Sears for $25, years ago. I originally got it so I could tell hot, or not hot, the snow/ice was on, my Driveway, BUT I HAVE SINCE FOUND A MUCH BETTER USE. I now SCAN ALL MY ELECTRICAL OUTLETS WHEN THE ARE RUNNING HEAVY LOADS (I used an elctric heater, plugged in as far from the circuit breaker as possible (on the END of the electric cable run). I then scan all of the OUTLETS on this circuit. I FOUND AN EXTREMELY HOT OUTLET AND OPENED IT UP (AFTER SHUTING OFF THE POWER). THE BACK OF THE OUTLET WAS MELTING - IT WAS JUST SHORT OF SETTING FIRE TO MY MASTER BEDROOOM - I LOVE IR HEAT DETECTORS.
NATURAL GAS WHOLE HOUSE STANDBY (Automatic) GENERATORS
Costs, Generac, Guardian, Review, Natural gas, Transfer Switch
USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE
GENERATORS ARE DANGEROUS - USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.
I know NOTHING about any of these companies nor their products - CAVEAT EMPTOR
My friends all seem to be buying Generac systems - Me too. LinkedIn Generac Home Standby Generators Group ex-CA Governor Jerry Brown running AGAIN for CA Governor in 2010 - Remember his previous terms as CA Governor??? - NO new power plants built in CA A new (10/2009), perhaps not yet available option, from the inventor of the Segway is: Dean Kamen’s Slingshot low cost water and power for the developing world
THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ABOUT GENERATORS
The Home Standby Generator is a Necessity High humidity caused by lack of Air Conditioning in a power outage may allow MOLD to grow in your house. Remember, generators produce Carbon Monoxide, which can kill you. I also use NATURAL (Explosive) GAS DETECTORS, to warn me of any natural gas leaks in the house.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR WHOLE HOUSE NATURAL GAS GENERATOR
0] Should be NATURAL GAS, if possible (no manual filling, no waiting for fuel delivery). See also Natural Gas Detectors 00] I have heard that the gas company no longer installs generators What a pity - they were the best and cheapest, in my opinion. 0] Does it produce enough power for your needs? http://www.woodsmall.com/Home-Security.htm#CAPACITY 1] Auto-start upon power failure with transfer switch. Electric start adds about 10% to the cost & may not include battery & charger. If not, how much more cost? 2] Does it come with the control panel to switch the power to your house circuits when the power fails? If not, how much will that cost? 3] Does it Auto-shutoff when power is restored? 4] Does it self-start monthly? to keep itself oiled and ready? 5] Does it come with all the panels and circuit breakers needed to hook it up?, or does that cost extra? 6] How quiet is it?. Special housings that reduce noise can add about 20% to the cost. Will you be able hear your TV? 7] Do you want both 240 and 120 volts, single phase?. 8] Remember, if the rated power is for Propane, natural gas is 80% as efficient (so you get 80% of the rated power as the generator's output). 9] What does the law say about how far it must be from the house? 10] What does the law say about venting the exhaust fumes? 11] Does your power company have to inspect your main power leads to ensure that they can carry any additional current? I think that this only applies if you sell power to the power company 12] Are included cables long enough to get to breaker box? If not, how much will the cables cost? Are cables included? 13] Who builds the concrete pad for the generator? Cost? (I think that You don't want one a plastic pad, although the plastic one on concrete might reduce noise), I've rethought this. For air cooled units, I think that it is OK to use the polymer pad (it's not really plastic) on pea gravel (for controlling water runoff). For non-air cooled units, which are heavier, I'd go for a concrete pad. 14] What is the expected life of the generator? Mine is still going strong after 13 years. 15] Do they actually install everything, or do you need to hire a 1} gas installer 2} electrician and/or a 3} concrete person, and who physically moves the generator into place, on the pad? 16] Does your city/county require an electrical hook-up permit? 17] Does your city/county require an gas hook-up permit? 18] Does your city/county require any other permits (concrete, generator location?... 19] Will you still have natural gas service in an emergency? In the case of the recent flooding in the Washington D.C. area, the natural gas distribution was shut down also. This was due to the fact that gas could continue to flow in buildings that were flooded. That would not have been safe, to say the least. An additional feature that a friend in California is considering is the ability to switch fuels. One of the 240VAC/75 AMP single phase units that he has been looking at is able to operate on natural gas, propane, or gasoline. Having a 250 gallon standby propane tank would be useful in the event of a natural disaster that disrupts the natural gas supply. If you have to buy a propane tank, it could be expensive (they used to be free - check on it). 20] Generac suggests that if any bedroom circuits are supplied by a backup home generator, that the circuit breaker be brought up to NEC (National Electric Code) standards of 2001, which would mean replacing any bedroom non-AFCI cicuit breaker with an AFCI circuit breaker. I have been told, right or wrong, that if you have split circuit outlets (top of the outlet fed by one electric circuit, bottom of the outlet powerd by another electic circuit [one may be on a switch, the other might be always on]), THAT YOU CAN NOT USE AN AFCI CIRCUIT BREAKER FOR THE OUTLET. 21] Personally, I will not buy a generator made by a company that does not already have a proven track record of producing quality home standby generators. Some companies do not make their own generators, but buy them from other companies - I consider this to be OK if the unit has a good, long record of dependability, BUT THEN AGAIN, I, personally, would not buy one - why pay the markup cost? 22] I had our Generator BOLTED to it's concrete slab for protection against high winds. 23] I had the Gas Company install An Excess Flow Valve, or EFV. An EFV is a safety device installed on natural gas distribution pipelines to automatically close and restrict the flow of natural gas in the event an underground pipe is damaged or if there is a significant increase in the flow of natural gas to the meter: Excess Flow Valve, or EFV, automatic safety gas shutoff valve 24] If you have any SUMP PUMPS or WELLS, you will want these to be running off of the Generator (ensure you generator can handle these loads. NOTE - I had to adjust the allowable frequency drift on some of my UPS units, as standby generators do not (normally) produce real sine-wave voltages, so some of my UPS units, as a precaution, refused to run off the standby generator until I relaxed their restrictions. What to Expect With a Standby Generator Installation How to Accessorize Your Standby Generator Think about it. Your standby generator will only be installed once. Your best bet is to order and install everything simultaneously ADD AN HOUR USED METER - to know when to perform maintenance NATURAL GAS WHOLE HOUSE STANDBY (Automatic) GENERATORS
GENERATOR CAPACITY - How large a generator do I need?
There are really two criteria for determining how large a generator to buy: 1] How many AMPS (or WATTs) do you really expect to use? The more WATTs your generator produces, the more money it takes to run it. All motors use more AMPS to start, than they do to actually run, so you have to allow enough current for the starting of air conditioners, refrigerators and such things (if they are on your generator). Our generator is rated to start/run 5 TON Air conditioners. We started with a 4 1/2 ton air conditioner. Power Consumption CLICK HERE Scroll down to find how many watts typical appliances use Appliance usage cost calculator Home Generator SIZING - How Much Standby Power Do I Need? 2] Since your house is probably already wired, you need to detemine which necessary appliances are on which circuit breakers. Most generators are set up to allow transfer of a certain number of 120 volt circuit breakers. My generator can handle 16 circuit breakers. Each 220 volt circuit breaker requires two circuit breaker installation locations - thus if my generator transfer panel can handle 16 120 volt breakers, it could handle 8 240-volt breakers, or a combination of both. You need to detemine which circuit breakers you wish to have the generator handle. Our Generac #Model #5243 generator can handle about 70 amps and 16 circuit breakers. In our Case, Our total house Circuit Breakers WERE arranged like this: 1 2 RANGE/STOVE 220 volts HEAT & BLOWER 50 AMP <<< 220 volt breakers 3 4 5 6 empty - was H20 Heater HEAT 50 AMP NOW UNUSED - 94% efficient Natural gas furance 7 8 9 Dining Room lights 10 deck lights Blower and AC 50 AMP <<< 220 volts MICROWAVE 12 Kitchen Track lights 11 MASTER Bedroom plugs Master BATH plugs 13 Living Rm Plugs 14 Front door light CLOTHES DRYER 30 AMPs <<< 220 volts main deck/stairs lights 16 15 Kitchen = 20 Amp 17 Disposal = 20 Amp 18 WASHING MACHINE = 20 Amp 19 Refrigerator (kitchen) 20 OUTSIDE PLUGS 20 Amp 21 Kitchen = 20 Amp 22 OFFICE PLUGS Computers Telephone equipment 23 DISHWASHER = 20 Amp 24 SW Bedroom/GYM plugs Basement Bath plugs Basement Hall plugs Refrigerator & upright Freezer Inside storage room plugs & Refrigerator 25 - no breaker 26 Master Bedroom STAIRS Lights Middle HALL Lights Master BATH LIGHTS French door porch lites Outside UTILITY ROOM Burglar Alarms W/battery backup W/cell phone 27 - no breaker 28 MASTER BEDROOM Lights OFFICE Lights Spare Bedroom lights Middle BATH lights 29 - no breaker 30 FAMILY ROOM PLUGS = 20 Amp TV STEREO WET-BAR Refrigerator So in our case, I will hook up breakers 1&3, 9, 10&12, 11, 14&16, 18, 19, 22, 23, 24, 26, 28 & 30: This allows us to run: 1) All Three Refrigerators - Two 24 Cu Feet and one wet bar AND one upright freezer 2) All Microwaves (Two) 1800 watt and 1200 watt 3) Dish Washer 4) Clothes Washer 240 volts 5) Clothes Dryer - 240 volts 6) Our (whole house) Air Conditioner - was 4 1/2 Tons, now is 3 1/2 Tons. 7) Our computers, phones, printers other office electronics 8) All TVs and the stereo 9) All the bedroom Lights and wall outlets 10) Garbage Disposal. 11) Space heaters 12) Burglar Alarms 13) Central Gas Heat (circulation fan & thermostat) 14) Electric Stove (240 volts) 15} Dehumidifiers 16) Humidifiers 17) Almost all lights and outlets in the house (some exceptions) NOT necessarily all appliances on at the same time. Our owner's manual states that our unit can start and run a Five Ton Air conditioner.
New, GENERAC, CIRCUIT BREAKERS
============================================================= 1 Range 220 volts 2 AC unit, blower motor, thermostat 220 volts 3 Range 220 volts 4 AC unit, blower motor, thermostat 220 volts 5 Dryer 220 volts 6 20AMP-Family room, h20 heater 7 Dryer 220 volts 8 SW Room/gym outlets, furnace, heat tape 9 Dining&kitchen room 10 office/guest bedroom Deck lights Microwave kitchen track lights 11 Refrigerator 12 Lights OR Master Bedroom?? 13 Dishwasher 14 Master Bedroom & Bath OR lights Master Bedroom is NOT AFCI circuit breaker 15 Clothes Washer 16 LIGHTS circuit breaker room family room to 2nd floor stars ============================================================= Last used Levitron 3-way LED lighted switches L1463-C 15A-120V AC/CA Our current natural gas load (we have the highest capacity gas meter for a residence, a RED meter [painted gray]) supporting: 1) 38,000 BTU natural gas logs (can be non-vented) 2) 199,00 BTU RINNAI tankless water heater (supports 4+ showers) 3) 88,000? BTU Natural Gas Rheem/Ruud Furnce A/C equipment draws a different amount of power depending upon how efficient it is and how hard it has to work to keep up with the outside temperature. how many watts is 5 ton air conditioner One ton of refrigeration will equal approximately 3517 watts, so a 3 ton unit will draw 10551 watts. This is the load that is used to size service entrance calculations.
CONVERT ELECTRICITY POWER CONSUMPTION TO OTHER UNITS of MEASURE
For example, convert Tons of Cooling to Watts of Electricity
Convert HP to WATTS to AMPS -- BTUs WATTs
I am NOT responsible for any errors - use at your own risk.
1 ton of Air Conditioning Cooling is approx. equal to 3.5kW 1 ton of Cooling = 12,000 BTU/hr 5 tons of Cooling = 17.57kW (from eleceng09) 12,000 BTU/hr = 3.514kW Convert Horsepower (Mechanical) to Watts - Calculateme 1/4 Horsepower (Hp) = 186.42 Watts 1/3 Horsepower (Hp) = 246.08 Watts 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 372.85 Watts 2/3 Horsepower (Hp) = 492.16 Watts 3/4 Horsepower (Hp) = 559.27 Watts 1 Horsepower (Hp) = 746.70 Watts 1 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 1118.55 Watts 2 Horsepower (Hp) = 1491.40 Watts ~= 12.5 Amps (at 120 VAC 2 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 1864.25 Watts ~= 15.53 Amps (at 120 VAC) 3 Horsepower (Hp) = 2237.01 Watts 3 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 2609.95 Watts 4 Horsepower (Hp) = 2982.80 Watts 4 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 3355.65 Watts 5 Horsepower (Hp) = 3728.50 Watts 5 1/2 Horsepower (Hp) = 4101.35 Watts 6 Horsepower (Hp) = 4474.20 Watts Kilowatts, Watts, kVA, kW, Amps - Conversions Watt calculator (scroll down) - BTUs, Watt Hours, Kilowatt Hours, Therms, Joules Convert Horsepower (Mechanical) to Watts - CalculateMe.com How do I convert Horse Power (HP) into Kilowatts (kW)? How do I convert Watts (W) into Horse Power (HP)? Online Conversion - power- Horsepower to watts How to Convert Watts to Amps Simplified - PwerStream Electrical - Repair-home.com unitconversion.org
(STANDBY) GENERATOR FORUMS & GROUPS
WARNING - Posting a message may get you a lot of SPAM. If you need to post a question, I would get a "throw-away" (one-time-use) eMail Address. NOTE - I had to adjust the allowable frequency drift on some of my UPS units, as standby generators do not (normally) produce real sine-wave voltages, so some of my UPS units, as a precaution, refused to run off the standby generator until I relaxed their restrictions. Standby Generator Forum - Ask the Builder LinkedIn Generac Home Standby Generators Group Mike Holt's Forum Generac and frequency control - alt.energy.homepower alt.energy.homepower alt.engineering.electrical rec.outdoors.rv-travel rec.autos.tech rec.aviation.owning free.uk.diy.home alt.survival misc.rural misc.survivalism sci.engr.electrical.sys-protection misc.survivalism alt.tv.this-old-house triangle.general
We bought a Whole House 15 Kw Natural GAS Generac # 5243 Generator
We bought a Generac Guardian 16Kw natural gas generator Model #5243. (it's 16 Kw on Propane, and 15 Kw on natural gas.) This whole house standby generator is for emergency use. The new panels for this genset, can handle 16 breakers - We are able to run all important stuff: Washer, Dryer, Dish washer, AC, all TVs/Tivos, All three Refrigerators + upright freezer, two microwaves, lights/power in all bedrooms and at least two of the three bathrooms (I forget about the third), electric stove / oven, Power and light for my office and Family room. Lights in the kitchen. Some outside lights. Here is a review of an older, 12 kw Generac Guardian Automatic Standby Generator. According to the owners manual, it should be able to start and run a FIVE TON Air Conditioner - CHECK WITH THE MANUFACTURER - HOW MANY AMPS/WATTS DOES THIS 5 TON AC UNIT LEAVE FOR OTHER TASKS? We have had our Generac Generator over three years - it's been running perfectly. While it can be heard, it is not very loud (you need to make up your own mind about noise). It does come in a metal cabinet to help reduce noise. Several of our friends have older Generac units - they have performed flawlessly. This model included a 100 amp transfer switch. (while this unit can produce over 100 amps, it is most stable (voltage & frequency) at about 70 amps. It was installed with a 70 amp circuit breaker. We have a 97% efficient 100,000 BTU Natural Gas Furnace and a 4 1/2 Ton, 16 SEER Air Conditioner. The thermostat, Air Conditioner and Blower are also on the Backup Generator. We can use the generator to heat or cool the whole house. COST to BUY and INSTALL COST to RUN MAINTENANCE MANUFACTURERS of GENERATORS LOCAL (RTP, NC) STORES THAT SELL GENERATORS INTERNET STORES THAT SELL NATURAL GAS GENERATORS CAPACITY - How large a Unit do I need? Standby Generator Forums, groups We have a 38,000 BTU high-efficiency (ventless) natural gas fireplace and space heaters for additional heat. (I have multiple gas-detectors and CO2 detectors, along with a lot of fire and smoke detectors). We also have a (new) kerosene heater, which I don't expect to use. KEROSENE AND GASOLINE HEATERS COULD KILL YOU - BE VERY CAREFULL. Officials suggest NOT running kerosene heaters inside, at night (carbon monoxide might kill you). I also state: USE 120 VAC BATTERY-BACKED UP, CARBON MONXODE DETECTORS at various locations in your house. (I have multiple gas-detectors and CO2 detectors, along with a lot of fire and smoke detectors). Now to lay in a supply of munchies for the Winter. See also CARBON MONOXIDE See also NATURAL GAS DETECTORS See also Electrical HOUSE / HOME Wiring See also Emergency Escape Ladders See also FIRE Detectors See also Fire Extinguishers See also SMOKE Detectors Natural Gas Safety Generator Conversion Kits to Propane and Natural Gas - at your own risk Natural Gas Generators - information from City of Gulf Breeze Natural Gas Generator Information - from Virgina Natura Gas Appliance Electricity Consumption Calculations Recovering waste heat from natural gas generators - American ... Generator Conversion Kits to Propane and Natural Gas I know nothing about this company Standby Generators - Ask The Builder A rather unusual solution
COST OF OUR 15 Kw Natural Gas Generac Generator INSTALLED in August, 2006
The following quote includes the following items: 1. Generac Guardian generator (model # 5243) 16/15kw air-cooled unit with steel enclosure. a. 100 amp, 16 circuit automatic transfer switch b. mounting pad c. battery Includes delivery of unit to your house, leveling area to set generator, plastic sheeting and pea gravel to provide drainage. 2. Install 1” pvc conduit from existing panel box area to new generator location. 3. Install automatic transfer switch, recessed into wall 4. Install wiring for circuits that are to be on the generator 5. Install proper grounding of generator. 6. Install gas piping to generator (gas piping to be by sub-contractor) 7. Start up unit and test for proper operation. Costs: 1. Generator $ 3805.00 2. Installation $ 1400.00 3. Gas Piping $ 375.00 4. Electrical Permit $ 100.00 5. Mechanical Permit $ 100.00 6. Sales Tax $ 266.35 Total installed price $ 6046.35 I later added: 1] A concrete pad on which to place the generator (not generally needed) 2) An HOUR USAGE METER - measures the number of hours that The generator has run, including it's weekly self-tests.
COST TO RUN OUR GENERAC GENERATOR Model #5243
(requires "RED" home gas meter - the largest residential gas meter) My gas company upgrqaded to the red meter at no cost to me, as they wanted the additional business. For our generator, the manual states that when it produces 50% of it's rated output, it is consuming about 2/3 it's total BTU rating (ours is 245,000 BTUs) - so the cost of running the generator at reduced loads is not linear. Our Generac consumes: 183 Cu.Ft/Hour at Half Load 261 Cu.Ft/Hour at Full Load When I checked last year (2008), it would cost us $75 a day to run this Generac Standby Generator at it's full 15 Kw (natural gas) output. Cubic feet gas = how many BTU's by Ray G: 1 Cubic Foot has approximately 1020 BTU's There are 100 Cubic Feet per CCF or about 102,000 BTU's There are 1000 Cubic Feet per MCF or about 1,020,000 BTU's A Therm is 100,000 BTU's or just slightly less than a CCF A DekaTherm is 1,000,000BTU's or just slightly less than an MCF.
MAINTENANCE for the Generac Standby Generator Model # 5243
You are supposed to change the spark plug, oil, oil filter and air filter once a year. As I recall, you are supposed to SET the engine VALVES once a year. My friends have been finding NO VARIATION in valve clearances after a year, so they are NOT setting the valves at all (this MAY be a very costly mistake - if you don't have your valve clearances maintained, IT IS YOUR PROBLEM IF YOUR ENGINE FAILS). I highly recommend that you have a runtime HOUR METER added, to keep track of how much wear you puting on your generator. We get our generator tuneup parts from NORWALL POWER SYSTEMS 1-855-466-7067 for parts - press 2 We ARE CURRENTLY (1/4/2018) using Norwall TURNUP KIT P/N 5664 for Generac # 5243 Generator. CURRENTLY (1/4/2018) the P/N: 5664 Maintenance Kit includes: (1) Oil Filter - 070185E SYNTHETIC OIL 5 - 30 wt (I( use Mobil One oil) Change the engine oil filter as follows: 1. With the oil drained, remove the old oil filter by turning it counterclockwise. 2. Apply a light coating of clean engine oil to the gasket of the new filter. See the Specifications section for recommended filter. 3. Screw the new filter on by hand until its gasket lightly contacts the oil filter adapter. Then, tighten the filter an additional 3/4 to one turn (Figure 4.4). Use all season SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or use SAE 30 oil of American Petroleum Institute (API) Service Class SG, SH, SJ or SL. (1) Air Cleaner - 0C8127 (2) Spark Plugs - 0E7585A Champion RECOMMENDED SPARK PLUG TYPE: C12YC GAP: 1.02 mm (0.040 inch) for the 15KV Natural Gas Generator REPLACED on 1/17/2018 NOTE - PREVIOUSLY used type Champion RC 14YC4 - WHY the change? (1) Spark Plug Wrench (1) Funnel (1) Shop Towel (1) Maintenance Sticker PN 5664 Tune-up Kit - CONTENTS GOOGLE: difference between champion RC14YC4 spark plug and a champion RC12YC? Is Champion really ending production on #431 spark plug? (RC14YC ... http://zillerstore.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4320 Is Champion really ending production on #431 spark plug? (RC14YC) Oreilly's told me today that the Champion #431 (RC14YC ) spark plug is going away, and was trying to get me to switch to a NGK plug. Last time I ordered plugs he said the same thing, but was able to fulfill my order of 200 plugs for my maintenance re-stock order by pulling from like 7 other stores or something. Now he can't. He's trying to scoop up the last of the #431S (shop pack of 24) that are out there - also discontinued but that was years ago. I have contacted Champion before about opening my own account with them since I go thru so many... $100,000 starting order. No thanks. Think about all the 992cc engines out there that we're supposed to use this plug in. I contacted Generac, they said as soon as they're not available anymore, they'll come up with a substitute. The NGK is the better plug anyway, but, which one? They didn't know yet. The basic difference is the hex size. Its 3/4" reach non resistor projected ... The RC12YC plug is a moderately warm plug with a copper electrode. For my money I would ... I always stick with Champion just because they're inexpensive and what the manufacturer has always used/recommended. Just my .02 ... NGK BKR5E Also try champion XC14YC. I don't know what the difference between X and R is. November 4th, 2016 I just spoke to a representative at Federal Mogul, owner of the Champion brand. He said that the 431/RC14YC spark plug is not being discontinued. I suppose that OReilly's may not be carrying it any more, but that's a totally different situation. Additional - I just had a "chat" talk with an O'Reilly rep. He stated that the plug is available, and he could find no indication of it being discontinued. It is not store stocked, though. Your local store can order it in for you. Getting a particular local store to order it seems to be the only problem based on the original post in this thread. I'd suggest a different vendor. Replacement for the Champion RC12YC spark plug Gentlemen, I have much experience building and maintaining engines especially race car engines. Spark plug brands is always a hot issue. Which is the best heat range, gap settings. For my money, NGK is s great substitute for Champion. Consider NGK BCPR6EP-11 or BCPR5EP-11 platinum tip or BCPR7EIX-IX iridium alloy. If you are stuck with Champion consider N11Y or N11YC. The basic difference is the hex size. Its 3/4" reach non resistor projected core nose copper alloy center electrode plug. AC or Autolite equals are good as well. There is a federal law that allows substitutions of components with out loss of warranty. The RC12YC plug is a moderately warm plug with a copper electrode. For my money I would consider a plug with a platinum electrode for much longer life and easier starting. Open up the gap to 0.045" for better flame front propagation. This is my opinion....as the old saying goes: Caviet emptor! Cheers, Bob Renton The law I referred to is Magnusson Moss warranty act. The RC12YC plug is a moderately warm plug with a copper electrode. Do you happen to know what the difference between the RC12YC and XC12YC would be? Birken Vogt, here is a link that explains spark plug number decoding. Champion is the third one down. It looks like "R"and "X" denote resistor plugs explains spark plug number decoding. Champion is the third one down. CHAMPION HEAT RANGE CHART - COPPER PLUS SPARK PLUG / STOCK NUMBER RC14YC = HOT 14mm 3/4 Reach RC12YC = slightly LESS HOT than RC14YC - 14mm 3/4 inch reach. Use OIL FILTER USE 070185B BLACK 75 LONG, NOT 070185 Generac's Generator Parts Web Page
MANUFACTURERS of GENERATORS
NOTE that Guardian and Generac are essentially the same, but may come packaged with differrent options. I believe that one is more DIY (Do It Yourself) and the other is mostly installed by companies that install whole house generators for a living. Baldor Briggs & Stratton Carrier - Must be new to the home market? An online RUMOR states that Generac makes the Carrier units - I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO CONFIRM THIS. Cummins Generac Generators - Info Generac's Guardian backup-generators main web page Guardian Series 20 KW HONDA - Not at the moment Kohler Gas Generators Kohler offers LP or natural gas fuel systems I have heard nothing about Kohler units. From experience of friends, Kohler motors hold up well. 12 years ago, a friend returned his Kohler lawn tractor because it was too noisy. Are Kohler generators noisy? - I don't know anything about the noise levels of different manufacturers. It's possible that Kohlers are the most quiet - do your own investigation.
LOCAL (RTP, NC) STORES THAT SELL GENERATORS
Costco sells some Cummins Onan natural gas units w/Honda motor electricgeneratorsdirect.com harborfreight Home Depot sells and Installs Generac natural gas standby home generators Home depot is RIGHT NOW selling 20kW Generac Generators for $4,049.10 (less installation) Online Special Valid: 06/17/2010 - 06/30/2010 (I do not know if that is a good price). Delivered to the first DRY spot in your yard - HOW will you get the 451 pound unit positioned correctly (by yourself)? Lowes sells/installs generators Northern Tool Sears SHEPHERD Electric Supply Company, Inc. 3925 Tarheel Dr., Raleigh NC 27609 (919) 821-5320 Shepherd - raleigh Location
INTERNET STORES THAT SELL NATURAL GAS GENERATORS
Norwall - A friend bought his Generac Guardian 13Kw on natural gas (15Kw on LP) here Free freight and he says, "the best price around". He also says, If you start diging around, the best ROI is the air- cooled Guardians - they double in price when you flip to water cooled. NexTag (Internet)
GENERATORS - Stirling generators
SLINGSHOT - low cost WATER and POWER for the developing world
Dean Kamen’s Slingshot water purifier and Stirling generator tech - Dean Kamen Unveils Slingshot, The Ultimate Water Regenerator Colbert and Kamen Solve the World’s Water Problems Segway creator unveils his next act - 2006
HOME SAFETY INFORMATION
Top Home Security Risks
HOME SECURITY (Theft) INFORMATION
Crime Crime Prevention Advice - crimereduction Home Security - mge - PDF Home Security Hardware - PDF Doors, Locks, Lighting - KC Sheriff
HUMIDIFIERS / DE-HUMIDIFIERS / HUMIDITY
Mine, Consumer Report's & WRAL's opinions - dis-agreements exist. You usually want between 40% to 50% Relative Humidity (RH)in the house. Other authorities recommend that RH be between 35% to 45% to control dust mites. I suggest that you shoot for 45% Relative Humidity in your home - perhaps higher in the winter (if it's cold outside). NOTE: a damp GFI circuit breaker OR Outlet will often trip if the humidity gets too High. Older houses are more likely to have GFI OUTLETs (easier and cheaper to install), than AFCI circuit breakers. New Raleigh codes require AFCI cicuit breakers for bedroom outlets (so I believe). /AFCI/CGFI/GFI/Overheating AC Outlets BACK TO HUMIDITY/HUMIDIFIERS/DEHUMIDIFIERS: In humid weather, above 55% RH, I run DE-humidifers. in very dry weather, below 40 % RH, I run HUMIDIFIERS. YOU MAY NEED TO (PROBABLY DO) RUN DE-HUMIDIFIERS IN THE SUMMER. ALWAYS BUY the WARM AIR Humidifier version, NOT the Cold Air Humidifier. Kills more germs/bacteria,... If it's winter, you probably want to add more warmth I do NOT know if hot water humidifiers are safe around kids? I believe that warm mist can dispers more moisture. YOU MAY NEED TO (PROBABLY DO) RUN HUMIDIFIERS IN THE WINTER Twin water tanks are easier to use, but more time consuming (have to fill 2 tanks) - also harder to find in a store. TOO MUCH HUMIDITIY can cause (Greater than 50%): RUN DE-HUMIDIFIERS A] Mold starts growing at 50% to 55% humidity B] Ideal Roach, Dust Mite and other insect breeding environment C] Increased biological contaminants including fungi, mites, pathogens growth. D] Harder breathing for Allergy and XX sufferers E] Potential wood swelling, rotting F] Paper wrinkles and becomes more difficult to use (printers, copiers) G] The higher the humidity, the warmer you feel - save energy costs. (But don't go higher than 45% or 50%) Too LOW HUMIDITY can cause (lower than 40%): RUN HUMIDIFIERS A] Heating your house lowers the humidity level - more heat, lower humidity. Central heating can lower humidity levels in your home to as low as 10 percent. B] The higher the humidity, the warmer you feel - save heating energy costs C] People can be uncomfortable D] Dry mucus membranes E] Nosebleeds and infections. F] Sore Throats - which caused my wife to be mis-diagnosed as having acid-reflex disease, causing her life insurance rates to DOUBLE G] Dry, flaky skin / chapped lips H] Potenial wood warping I] Drys out plants and paintings J] Can cause Static Electricity shocks K] Can cause you to breath less well and sleep less comfortably 1] ALWAYS BUY the WARM AIR version, NOT the Cold Air Humidifier - MY Opinion I do NOT know how safe these would be around kids? A] Heat kills bacteria, and IF Hot enough, kills mold spores, viruses,... B] No expensive filters to replace - MOST HAVE FILTERS THESE DAYS - I avoid these. C] No bacteria, mold spore, virus killing additives needed (depends on the unit), NOR No UV light needed to kill bacteria, mold spores, viruses. D] Disperses moisture better than cold air types E] Get a built-in Humidity sensor/switch, that allows moisture regulation F] Get a MANUAL type (now difficult to find), rather than electronic read-out, sensors 1} No manual reset is needed after a power failure (some electronics versions "remember") 2} In my opinion and proved by my gauges, the manual humidity gauge is more accurate 3} The electronic switches and humidity guages are more likely to fail 4} Cheaper to manufacture (savings may not get passed on to the buyer) G} SEND LETTERS TO HOME DEPOT, LOWES, BED BATH & BEYOND,... - DEMAND: 1} MANUAL GAUGES (NO ELECTRONIC READOUTS, NOR SENSORS) 2} MANUAL HUMIDISTATS (sensor that shuts device off when desired humidity is reached) 3} AT LEAST A 2 GALLON WATER TANK - MUCH MORE IS AWKWARD, MUCH LESS RUNS OUT TOO SOON H} Some people buy Silver Ion de-humidifiers. There are a lot of people and the EPA raising questions about the safety of the environment when using silver ion humidifiers. EPA wants to prohibit silver ion humidifiers - danger to environment unknown EPA announces it will regulate silver nanoparticle technology Silver - Ag Silver is highly toxic to aquatic life at low concentrations use silver ions as a disinfectant will have to be registered as a pesticide Silver Colloids: Frequently Asked Questions Beware The Silver Lining: A Risk Management Review Of Commercial ... SILVER ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD SUMMARY - PDF
HUMIDITY REFERENCES
Possible Effects of Indoor Humidity TOO DRY (<30%) TOO WET (>50%) Damage to wood floors, furniture, musical instruments Termites, cockroaches, and other insects Static electricity; electronic equipment damage Condensation and stains on walls, ceilings, windows Increased dust Flaking paint and peeling wallpaper Respiratory, throat, and skin irritations Mold, mildew, dust mite growth; allergic reactions Humidity in the Home Managing Home Humidity Indoor Humidity and Its Impact on Flooring Measuring Humidity In Your Home Air Moisture and Your Health Allergy Be Gone - Humidity in Your Home Understanding humidity Relative Humidity Humidity Chart for Wood Instruments Effects of Humidity Changes on the Mechanical Stability of Instrument Tops Air Temperature/Relative Humidity to Heat Catagory Conversion Chart Maximum Humidity Levels for Walls of various design Hints about humidifiers
HUMIDITY of PRESSURE TREATED WOOD before USING IT
How low should the humidity in PRESSURE TREATED WOOD be before you stain or paint it? *********** HVAC INFO was moved to: http://www.woodsmall.com/House-and-Tax-Info.htm Click here for HVAC HELP info Click here for HVAC info Click here for HVAC TAX REBATES info Click here for AC info Click here for FURNACE info Click here for GEOTHERMAL HEAT PUMP info Click here for HEAT PUMP info ************************
HOW TO (click here) FIX/DO/BUY...
INSPECTIONS, TESTING, DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR
InspectAPedia
INSURANCE
Car - Clark Howard Homeowners - Clark Howard Click here for more INSURANCE Information
KITCHEN (mounted on the wall) PHONE WIRING
For decades all wall-mounted kitchen phones were wired with the RED and GREEN wires REVERSED (and the wall-mounted phones were also wired in reverse), Thus if you plug in a desk phone into a kitchen wall-mounted phone jack, you can NOT dial OUT, although the phone works otherwise. The cure is to swap the RED and GREEN wires in the wall-jack. Note that most modern phones are polarity INsensitive - they will work no matter which way the RED and GREEN (or alternate colors, usually YELLOW and BLACK) are wired.
Leakage Current Detection and Interruption - LCDI
I'm not yet certain how this differs from an AFCI, and I don't know of any tests of these units. I found a Fire Shield Quote: "The World's Safest Surge Strip", a SmartProducts by TRC, in Home Depot. As I remember, it was about $15. It includes a 1350 Joule surge protector, six outlets and a phone/fax/modem surge protector. It is rated at 1875 watts and includes a 15 amp circuit breaker plus an LCDI protector. Seems very inexpensive for all of this protection, but if it really works... According to TRC, "The UL approved Fire Shield technology is designed to sense any damage in a power supply cord and then disconnect the circuit". http://www.trci.net/ - select "FireSheild"
MOISTURE - Problems and Cures
HUMIDIFIERS / DE-HUMIDIFIERS / HUMIDITY MOISTURE CONTROL (JLC Book)
MONOPOLIES - who owns what Appliance Company
Ologopoly Watch APPLIANCES - WHIRLPOOL: Whirlpool owns Maytag Whirlpool makes Kenmore appliances (last I knew) ELECTROLUX: Electrolux owns Frigidaire and Tappan Electrolux owns White Westinghouse, Eureka and Kelvinator
MOTION DETECTORS that can Handle CFLs
Most motion detectors can NOT correctly handle Fluorescent bulbs. They leak some voltage/current to the bulb when it is off, the fluorescent bulb detects this electricity, tries to light, but fails since there is not enough electricity - this cycle continues until the bulb burns out. THESE MOTION DETECTORS ARE OK FRO SOME TYPES OF FL Leviton Commercial Grade Wall Mounted Occupancy Sensor -White Leviton Commercial Wall Mounted Occupancy Sensor - PR150 & PR180 - OK w/fluorescent (Rapid Start Magnetic ballast ONLY) Leviton Commercial Grade Wall Mounted Occupancy Sensor - White - smarthome.com
PEST CONTROL
ANT, BIRD, CAT, DOG, GOLPHER, MOLE & RABBIT - REPELLENTS / KILLERS
CHIPMONK, GROUNDHOG, RACOON, SKUNK & SQUIRREL - REPELLENTS
UNLESS Stated, I have no opinion about the products
AMDRO Liquid ANT Bait Stations - liquid in a clear plastic rectangular strip with three oval "domes" on top This is the ONLY AMDRO Product that worked on my (small, black, liked it indoors) ants, and AMDRO makes about TEN ant killers. Contains 5.40% Sodium Tetraborate Decohydrate. KILLS THE COLONY (they take it back to the nest) Mine was labelled "AM132-01A" on the bottom of the bait strip. NO OTHER PRODUCT from ANDRO or ANY OTHER VENDOR worked on my ants. I got it at Walmart, which stocks at LEAST SIX other ANDRO products that did NOT work for me. DEER-OFF - DEER, RABBIT & SQUIRREL REPELLENT - by Havahart DOG, CAT & BIRD REPELLENT - granules - by RO-PEL (Contains: 2.5% white peper, 1.25% pepermint oil 1.25% Thyme oil) Definitely works for DOGS and CATS, I don't know about Birds. DOG, CAT & BIRD REPELLENT - granules - by WorryFree (Contains: 2.5% white peper, 1.25% pepermint oil 1.25% Thyme oil) Definitely works for DOGS and CATS, I don't know about Birds. CRITTER RIDDER - SKUNKS, GROUNDHOG, DOG, CAT, SQUIRREL, CHIPMONK & RACOON REPELLENT - by Havahart Works well for Dogs and Cats, but I think it's too expensive if you only want to repel Dogs/cats. (my) Hungry Racoons ignored this stuff. XP-20 DOG & CAT REPELLENT GEL - In my opinion, this worked best, lasted the longest & was cheapest Of course, I can no longer find it. Some other brands used XP-20, but I can no longer find them either (in local stores). MOLE & GOLPHER REPELLENT - stinks - - Liquid - apply w/hse - by SureStop (Grant Laboratories) Killing Voles and/or Moles is illegal here. Repelling them into your neighbor's yard just means they will buy a repellent and send them back to you, in a few months.
PIPE HEAT / Heat Tape - Keep your pipes / gutters from Freezing
I am using Fostex Wintergard WET Heat Tape - WONDERFUL STUFF. I originally wanted the Three (3) watts per foot Heat Tape, which does NOT seem to be availble here in the Raleigh / RTP area, but IS available from Dean Bennett Supply (and others, I suppose). INSTEAD, I INSTALLED THE 6 WATT PER LINEAR FOOT TAPE. I LIVE IN THE RESEARCH TRIANGLE AREA OF NORTH CAROLINA - I DO NOT KNOW IF 6 watts per foot heat tape would work for you in your area. I AM NOT RESPOSIBLE IF HEAT TAPE DOES NOT CURE YOUR PROBLEMS - HIRE A PROFESSIONAL. Follow the instructions and mine said: the heat tape wrapped pipes needed to go inside a bigger pipe (to trap the heat). I then insulated the outer pipe. You can get 6 watt per foot heat tape from Lowes. These days (2019) Heat tape seems to be made for water pipes and a DIFFERENT heat tape for gutters/rain spouts - CHECK ON IT. Some heat tape should be insulated (on top of the heat tape) and some should NOT be insulated. Heat tape comes in different number of watts per foot. The heat tape that I use, is "self regulating" - the amount of produced heat varies - gets warmer as it gets colder. THIS YEAR, 2018, was not able to buy it locally, but ordered it from ACE Hardware. It appears that you will want a special THERMOSTAT made for heat tape - it usually turns ON at about 40 degrees fahrenheit OR LOWER, (under $20 USD) so it does not waste electricity when you don't need heat tape. I use an EasyHeat (brand) Freeze Free Pipe Heat Cable Controller, $ 18 USD from LOWES (2018): https://www.lowes.com/pd/EasyHeat-Freeze-Free-Pipe-Heat-Cable-Controller/1060249 HEAT TAPE WORKS in two ways: 1] It is not turned on until the temperature gets to be about 36 degrees farenheit, or below. REMEMBER this temperature is at the SWITCH (so if you are protecting something outside, the SWITCH needs to be at the same location (temperature) as the item to be protected. 2] As the temperature gets lower, the heat tape gets hotter (SELF REGULATING HEAT TAPE, ONLY, consuming more current and providing more protection. Note that the tape is turned on by a thermostatic switch that plugs into an outlet. In an emergency, to heat an enclosed hot water room, you might be able to plug a high wattage lamp into the thermostatic switch - worked for me, athough a 300 watt bulb would NOT??? be enough to keep the pipes from freezing when the outside temperature is much below 20 degrees (which often happens here, in Winter - I remember one month of lows of ZERO and highs between 30 and 32 degrees). Also, I have 6 inch thick insulated walls. NOTE: MY FRIENDS IN ASHEVILLE USE A 60 WATT INCANDESCENT BULB 2018 - I am using a 100 watt (INCANDESCENT) bulb to heat my water heater room - BUT 100 watts may not be enough for your location. I also have a cold temperature alarm that will alert me if the temperature gets too cold in my water heater room. Using light bulbs to heat your hot water heater room Using HEAT TAPE to protect your water pipes from freezing I also: 1] run a plug-in watt/amp meter with mine, so I can always tell if it comes on and if it gets warmer (more current) as the temperature gets lower - a little added peace of mind. 2] use a wireless temperature guage - so while in the house, I can tell how cold is my insulated, outside, water heater rooom. SOME of these units have a low temperature alarm that you can set to warn you if the area gets near to freezing (or any desired temperature). MINE also tell me the HIGHEST and LOWEST temperatures reached in my outside, insulatated water heater room (my pipes DID freeze with 6 inch thick room wall and insulation wrapped pipes, which is why I am adding the heat tape. 3] Bought my newest thermostatic switch from LOWES: EASYHEAT WH38 Thermostatically Control Switch - about $ 17 (1/2014) This unit can handle 15 AMPS - WARNING - while you could hook this up to a heater, running an un-attended heater is a FIRE HAZARD. Thawing a Frozen Water Pipe How To Install Heat Tape Raychem Frostex Plus - Light Commercial / Residential Pipe Freeze ... EasyHeat Pipe Freeze Protection Solutions Frostex Heat Tape - 120 V 3 watt per foot HEAT TAPE PRICES DEAN BENNETT SUPPLY PH 800-621-4291 Electric Heat Cable for Farm and Home Use Pre-Packaged Heat Trace Cable 3 Types of Waterproof Pipe Heat Tape Useful Around the Home or Office Water Line Heat Trace Freeze Protection For Cottage, Home ... Pipe Trace Freeze Protection Heating Cable Low Cost Self-Regulating Freeze Protection Heating Cable VTI : Pipeline Heating using Electric Heat Tracing Technology Heat Trace Cable Selection Requires Attention to Details ... Water and Air Line Frozen Pipe Prevention - PDF HeatersPlus.com Water Line Heat Trace Freeze Protection For Cottage, Home ... Residential Pipe Heat Trace Systems - Heating Cable for Freeze ... Reducing the final cost of ownership of electric heat tracing ... AQUIFER DISTRIBUTION LTD.
PLUMBING (click here)
POTABLE (drinking water safe) Garden Hoses
All hoses rated safe for to use for drinking use should be completely WHITE, white with a blue stripe, or BEIGE to match some RVs. Note most of them have larger-than-normal ergonomic female ends, which would NOT fit through the hose entry hole in my automatic garden hose rewinders, HOWEVER, you can feed the hose from the inside of the rewinder, out to get around the problem of the large female hose end. NOTE that you could not attach two of these hoses together for use in a "ReelSmart" automatic hose rwinder (I like these rewinders, and have two of them). These hoses are also labelled safe for drinking water. I bought some 50 foot white (safe) hoses at my local Marine Parts Store. You can often find these hoses at Camping/RV Supply stores, although the chances of finding 50' and 75' safe hoses at your local store are not good. I located some 75 foot hoses at starboardsupply. Lead free hoses are usually made of virgin vinyl and have nichol-plated ends. I was shocked to find that when I went to my local Lowes and Home Depot Stores (in NC) that ALL their garden hoses stated something like: WARNING: contains chemicals found unsafe for drinking water. Also Contains LEAD. Some hose were also labelled: "NOT labelled for sale in California". Some hoses were also labelled: "WASH HANDS AFTER USING THIS HOSE, but NOT with this hose. I also found these warnings very hard to find, on the back label on the hose, often obscured by the hose to which it was attached. Note that all drinking water safe hoses that I have seen: 1] Do not have any PSI ratings, so may burst more easlilycthan "leaded" hoses. 2] Are easier to kink (seem very flexible) 3] Have ergonomic female end, which was TOO LARGE to fit into my automatic hose rewinder. If I buy a 75' hose and only need 75 feet, I can feed the entire hose into the automatic hose rewinder from the inside (so I could use an auto-rewinder). Since I need 125' lengths, I can not use the safe hose for most of my watering needs. I found that a 2003 Consumer Report supposedly listed some hoses as safe for drinking water, but I could not find any of these hoses still for sale, and they did contain some amounts of leachable lead. I was told by a hose manufacturer's Tech Rep that hoses with brass colored hose ends are more likely to contain LEAD than are the nichol-chromium hose ends. I believe that are hoses have always contained lead and other toxic substances (in very small, probably safe amounts), but only lately are labels required to alert us to the fact. It is my Personal belief that if a hose makes no statement about toxic chemicals and lead, it is NOT a hose that is safe for drinking water. LEAD often (usually?) is used to as a stabilizer in PVC and lots of hoses are made of PVC. I have not personally seen a RUBBER hose that was lead-free, but they might exist. 75 foot safe garden hoses Lead Free Requirements of Safe Drinking Water Act - Summer 1999
RADON
Radon (Rn) - EPA How Radon Works A Citizen's Guide to Radon | Publications | Radon | Indoor Air ... Radon - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Chemistry : Periodic Table : radon : key information RADON.COM -=- The Radon Information Center --- Complete info on ... MedlinePlus: Radon Radon: Environmental Health in Minnesota Howstuffworks "How Radon Works" Article Understanding Radon BRE radon advice - protecting new buildings Radon Protection - How to Install a Radon Mitigation System Radon Protective Measures (RPM) Site Report Radon Gas Detector Pro Series III (electric) - I don't know anything about it 12. Basic Radon Protection Radon Protection - Rad Safe Supplies Ltd, offering solutions to ... Visqueen Building Products North Cornwall District Council - Full radon protection HPA | Radon RECALLS / SCAMS,... Page
SECURITY HINGES
If you have an outside door with hinges on the outside of the door, you really need to either: 1] install safety hinges (Safety Studs) (Safety Studs Click on: "3 Safer Door Hinges to Make Your Home More Secure" and Scroll to "Studs")) 2] drill 1/4 inch holes in both your door and door jamb, at the hinge side and install 1/4 inch aluminum "dowel" rod. These rods will prevent someone from pulling out the hinge pins and removing your door. FOR DOORS WITH THE HINGES ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE BUILDING: In my OPINION, the best type of security hinge is as pictured, below. It should have at least one STURDY STUD on each of the two sides of the hinge. When the door is shut, the studs go through holes on the other side of the hinge, and prevent the door from being pried outward (i.e, the thief can not get in by removing the hinge pins). Example of a GOOD Security Hinge Design - CLICK HERE Courtesy of RIGID (Home Depot) FORUMS Door Hinges and Home Security - I PREFER the "Safety Studs" version - State Farm Safety Stud - A Guide to Builders Hardware Terminology Security Hinges - smarthome Door Hinges and Home Security
TIMERS - Wall Timers that Work with CFLs
Amost NO wall timer can be directly used with Fluorescent Lights. This is because the timers leak a small amount of voltage, causing the CFL to continually try to start on a voltage that is too low - resulting in a quickly destroyed bulb. Similarly, CFLs can not generally be used with (most) motion detectors nor photocells (switches that turn on at night, off at daybreak). Intermatic DOES have an in-wall timer that will work with CFLs, small motors - [anything less than 15 AMPS] (check their specs before using them in you application). These timers have an actual solid mechanical connection that supplies power to the circuit when the timer turns a device ON. The physical contact does not leak any voltage, making them useable with CFLs/ Intermatic's SS7, SS7C, SS8 and SS8C wall timers have these physical contacts, and can be used with CFLs. UNFORTUNATELY, these wall timers have had a less-than-ideal service life, and are being replaced by a new timer, the Intermatic in-wall switch, model ST01C (S T zero one C). I believe that the SS8 is identical to the SS7, except that the SS8 can optionally handle day light saving time. Intermatic states that ST01C will have none of the problems of the SS series switches. I'M WAITING for the ST01C models. The Intermatic ST01C will be NOT available until AT LEAST after March 1, 2007. The problem seems to be that the motors do not have enough torque (are not strong enough) and that the switches may fail in the first year (the motor gears can usually be cleaned and lubed with a good synthetic lubricant, if you are the Techie Type). BTW - for those going crazy wondering, there is NO product difference between an SSx and an SSxC product - only the box that they came in was different.
TOOLS, INFORMATION ABOUT(press here)
UV - Ultra Violet Lights
Coming soon...
UTILITY LINES - MARK BEFORE YOU DIG
You are required to have all of utility lines marked before you do, or have, any digging (no, not garden digging) on your property. If you fail to have the utility lines marked, and your or your contractor cut or damage a utility line, besides the danger involved, you will be stuck with the entiore cost of repair, and possible fines. Having your utility lines marked is Free and Easy. You just need to know what toll-free phone number to call. for NC: 800 632 - 4949, Color Codes for Utility Marking call_before_you_dig - pge call_before_you_dig - cbyd Google search for CALL BEFORE YOU DIG
WATER LEAKS - INSIDE the HOUSE
Having had two inside the house water leaks, that damaged ceiling paint, I now use (battery operated) the Watchdog Water Alarm, model BWD-HWA to detect water leaks by our clothes washer, water heater, dishwasher and sinks and toilets. $14.53 at Home Depot (4/2023): Basement Watchdog - Battery-Operated Water Alarm It alllows you to separate the leak detector plate from the battery and logic portion of the leak detector. Home Depot will be selling another unit, which does not have a detachable leak detection plate. If you have a hot water tank located in the house, I recommend that you use this unit. Have you noticed that the leak pans placed under the hot water heater by the home builder have very small drain "pipes"? If a leak occurs, I believe that the leak pan, feed by water under 40 to 60 pounds of water pressure, will fill up much faster than the small drain pipe, using only gravity, can empty the pan, causing water to overflow the pan. I expect to replace the batteries with DC power supplies. Batteries are lasting me about two or more years in this alarm. WATER LEAKS WATCHDOG ALARM - Information
WATER LEAKS - OUTSIDE the HOUSE
Consider using AMERICAN LEAK DETECTION. They have locations all over the world. They have sophisticated cameras that can go into pipes, and radio their location when the problem is detected. The can listen for leaks. They can inject some form of gas (I forget what) which rises through dirt and concrete, and is then detected on the surface. American Leak Detection found my water leaks and pin-pointed the area of the leaks within two inches of the leak, saving me the cost, time and destruction of just digging up the yard, looking for the problem. If your water bill also includes charges for waste water (sewage) based on the amount of water you use, you may be able to get a partial refund on the sewage portion of your water bill. AFTER you have the leak fixed, call your water distributer. In Raleigh, NC, the City will refund the portion of the waste water bill that is above your normal usuage, on ONE month's bill. You will be required to present proof that you had a leak fixed.
WATER PURIFIERS
The SLINGSHOT: Dean Kamen’s Slingshot water purifier and Stirling generator tech - Dean Kamen Unveils Slingshot, The Ultimate Water Regenerator Colbert and Kamen Solve the World’s Water Problems Segway creator unveils his next act - 2006 WATER - CREATING POTABLE
WATER TEMPERATURES - SCALDING
Tables and Charts
I am NOT Responsible for any Errors - Use at your own risk. I ASSUME NO LIABILITY - You do things at your own risk. I have NO medical nor First Aid training. Always check facts for your self. Images for scalding water temperature chart Iime and Temperature to Scald Scalding from Hot Water - PSEG.com THE CITY OF RALEIGH NOW MANDATES HOT WATE BE NO HOTTER THAN 120 DEGREES (which wiull NOT sterilize your dishes). My Dishwasher can be set to boost it's hot water to 140 degrees, for sterilizing dishes. My Rinnai tankless hot water can be set to hold a temperature - comes preset to 120 degrees (same as most cities mandate). What temperature will kill bacteria? Hot temperatures can kill most germs — usually at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Most bacteria thrive at 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why it's important to keep food refrigerated or cook it at high temperatures. Freezing temperatures don't kill germs, but it makes them dormant until they are thawed. OTHER Sources state water must be 160 degrees to really sterilize your dishes. (WILL SCALD PEOPLE). What Temeprature Kills Germs Make sure your water heater is set to a safe temperature for home use. Use the industry chart below to provide guidance to avoid scalding. Check the water temperature before placing a child in the bathtub. Never leave a child alone or with other young children in the bathtub. Always check facts for your self. Most water heaters are unlikely to scald an adult occupant (because the adult will get out of the water, UNLESS incapacitated) Table of Hot Water Scalding Temperatures and Times: Water Temperature Exposure Time Effects of Exposure to VERY Hot Water Water at 100 degF or below See Safety Note Water at 120 degF 5 minutes 2nd & 3rd degree burns on adult skin Water at 130 degF 30 seconds 2nd & 3rd degree burns on adult skin Water at 140 degF 5 seconds 2nd & 3rd degree burns on adult skin Water at 150 degF 1.5 seconds 2nd & 3rd degree burns on adult skin Water at 160 degF .5 second 2nd & 3rd degree burns on adult skin Safety Note: Hot Water Scald Burn Warning for Infants, Children, & Elderly: Great care must be taken when exposing infants or children to warm or hot water as they can be badly burned quickly and at shorter exposure times.
WATER TEMPERATURES DESIRED
I am NOT Responsible for any Errors - Use at your own risk I ASSUME NO LIABILITY - You do things at your own risk Always check facts for your self. The consensus seem to be that you want the tmemperature of your household hot water to be 120 Degrees Fahrenheit. You may want your Dish washer to use 140 Degrees Fahrenheit, IF trying to remove stubborn food from dishes. Wake County, North Carolina, USA LAW requires water heater installers to set the hot water temperature to 120 Degrees Fahrenheit. The American Journal of Public Health prefers a maximum temperature of 120°F for hot water.
WATER TEMPERATURES - DISH WASHER
Always check facts for your self. The consensus seem to be that you want the temperature of your household hot water to be 120 Degrees Fahrenheit. You may want your Dish washer to use 140 Degrees Fahrenheit, IF trying to remove stubborn food from dishes. Wake County, North Carolina, USA LAW requires water heater installers to set the hot water temperature to 120 Degrees Fahrenheit. My Dishwasher allows me to (optionally) boost the washing temperature to 140 degrees, Fahrenheit.
ELECTRIC HOUSE WIRING INFO - USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK
I am not an electrician - normal 120 VAC - USA ONLY
Many houses / offices are NOT wired correctly - and are very dangerous
Your wiring may NOT have used the correct color conventions
Is there a backup Generator? Turn it OFF also
Do NOT work in DAMP nor WET PLACES
HIRE AN ELECTRICIAN - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DO YOUR OWN WIRING
Ultimate Guide to Wiring: Complete Home Projects - ONLINE - Google Other Books about electric wiring 120 VAC (USA) WIRE COLORS (NOTE - things are often NOT wired correctly - always check) TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY - CHECK THAT IT IS POWERED OFF DO NOT WORK IN DAMP or WET AREAS - CAREFUL - Is there a standby Generator? ========================================================================== BLACK HOT Wire BRASS screw (NARROW Blade) WHITE or GRAY (generally grounded) NEUTRAL wire - SILVER screw (WIDE Blade) exception: WHITE wire wrapped with BLACK tape at intervals is HOT RED Hot Wire (alternate, traveler); BLUE and YELLOW wires are also HOT GREEN or BARE is always used for GROUND only Polarized Plugs AC power plugs and sockets - wikipedia A correctly wired lamp is required to have the TIP = HOT = narrow blade of plug = BLACK wire and the larger, exposed, base = NEUTRAL (close to ground) = WIDE = WHITE wire. GROUNDED 120 VOLT PLUG (white, black & green wires): If the gound connector is facing DOWN and the two blades are on top, and you are looking at the plug from the wire end (NOT the end that goes into the outlet), THEN The FAT, WHITE (wire) NEUTRAL blade is on the LEFT (CHECK IT, do not assume this is correct) ========================================================== I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ERRORS, PROBLEMS or ACCIDENTS HIRE AN ELECTRICIAN - DO NOT WORK ON WIRING YOURSELF Tech Tips - Duke Energy #03 Standby Power Supplies Can Lock Up Your PC #08 Preventing Damage Due to Ground Potential Difference Electrical Home Wiring BOOKS
X-10
X10.com - Security Cameras, X10 Home Security About X10 X10 (industry standard) - Wikipedia X10 - Wikipedia X10 - smarthome ==========================================================
OTHER RESOURCES of POSSIBLE INTEREST
I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT THESE SITES (Caveat Emptor)
Safety Stud - A Guide to Builders Hardware Terminology Smart House Ask the Builder Home Security Store - (I know nothing about them)
Jump to Topics
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Contact David Woodsmall I created these websites ONLY to provide free information to help other people. I am NOT a business of any kind, and make NO money providing this information. There is NOTHING for sale here - Feel free to link to any of my web pages. I am NOT Responsible for any Errors nor Problems - Use at your own risk.
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David Woodsmall - Main Web Page
Caveat Emptor - I am not responsible for any problems
I try to present accurate info

Complete Home Security, Safety and Maintenance

by David Woodsmall

Last Updated: 4/06/2023 - Optimized for Firefox 110.0.1 - (Quantum)

COPYRIGHT 1992 thru 2023 - David R. Woodsmall

If this is a real Emergency, dial 911 on your telephone (in the USA)

I ASSUME NO LIABILITY - You do things at your own risk

INDEX - Jump to Home Security Topics

ARC FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERs

ASBESTOS

AUTOMATION (Home)

Automation "Standards"

AUTOMATION - Resources

BURGLARY PREVENTION

BRAIDED HOSES CONTROL TOILET & WASHER HOSE LEAKS

CARBON MONOXIDE - Detecting & Poisoning

CONTRACTORS / HANDYMEN / MAINTENANCE - check them out first

CRESTRON

DO NOT CALL PHONE NUMBER LIST - United States

NO Telemarketers

OPT OUT - eMail, Catalogs, regular Mail & Phone Numbers

ELECTRONICS - HOME ELECTRONICs - REMOTE CONTROL

EMERGENCY ESCAPE LADDERS

EMERGENCY TOOLS (I've not seen them)

FIRE and SMOKE DETECTORS

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

CLASSES:

FRAUD/Consumer Problems

GAS (Particulate) MASKS - Type N95

NIOSH-Approved N95 Disposable Particulate Respirators

USE INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I assume NO liability

GFI - Ground Fault Interrupter (also called GFCI and RCCB)

NATURAL GAS, COMBUSTIBLE GAS and PROPANE GAS DETECTORS

Combination Methane, Propane & Natural Gas Detectors

USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE

NATURAL GAS WHOLE HOUSE STANDBY (Automatic) GENERATORS

Costs, Generac, Guardian, Review, Natural gas, Transfer Switch

USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK - I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE

GENERATORS ARE DANGEROUS - USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.

I know NOTHING about any of these companies nor their products - CAVEAT EMPTOR

THINGS THAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ABOUT GENERATORS

CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR WHOLE HOUSE NATURAL GAS GENERATOR

GENERATOR CAPACITY - How large a generator do I need?

New, GENERAC, CIRCUIT BREAKERS

CONVERT ELECTRICITY POWER CONSUMPTION TO OTHER UNITS of MEASURE

For example, convert Tons of Cooling to Watts of Electricity

Convert HP to WATTS to AMPS -- BTUs WATTs

I am NOT responsible for any errors - use at your own risk.

(STANDBY) GENERATOR FORUMS & GROUPS

We bought a Whole House 15 Kw Natural GAS Generac # 5243 Generator

COST OF OUR 15 Kw Natural Gas Generac Generator INSTALLED in August, 2006

COST TO RUN OUR GENERAC GENERATOR Model #5243

MAINTENANCE for the Generac Standby Generator Model # 5243

MANUFACTURERS of GENERATORS

LOCAL (RTP, NC) STORES THAT SELL GENERATORS

INTERNET STORES THAT SELL NATURAL GAS GENERATORS

GENERATORS - Stirling generators

SLINGSHOT - low cost WATER and POWER for the developing world

HOME SAFETY INFORMATION

HOME SECURITY (Theft) INFORMATION

HUMIDIFIERS / DE-HUMIDIFIERS / HUMIDITY

HUMIDITY REFERENCES

HUMIDITY of PRESSURE TREATED WOOD before USING IT

HOW TO (click here) FIX/DO/BUY...

INSPECTIONS, TESTING, DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR

INSURANCE

KITCHEN (mounted on the wall) PHONE WIRING

Leakage Current Detection and Interruption - LCDI

MOISTURE - Problems and Cures

MONOPOLIES - who owns what Appliance Company

MOTION DETECTORS that can Handle CFLs

PEST CONTROL

ANT, BIRD, CAT, DOG, GOLPHER, MOLE & RABBIT - REPELLENTS / KILLERS

CHIPMONK, GROUNDHOG, RACOON, SKUNK & SQUIRREL - REPELLENTS

UNLESS Stated, I have no opinion about the products

PIPE HEAT / Heat Tape - Keep your pipes / gutters from Freezing

PLUMBING (click here)

POTABLE (drinking water safe) Garden Hoses

RADON

SECURITY HINGES

TIMERS - Wall Timers that Work with CFLs