A lot of people don't realize how easy it can be to use less energy in the home. With just a few simple adjustments you can save a lot of money. Here are a few simple ways this can be done:
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• Instead of using an air conditioner, which uses a lot of energy, try installing a ceiling fan.
• Maintain and replace filters in air conditioners and heaters
• Turn down your thermostat at night or when you are not at home
• Draw curtains over windows as this will insulate the room more efficiently
• Switch your incandescent lights to more energy efficient lighting such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light enhancing diodes (LEDs)
• Conserve water in your home by installing efficient toilets and showerheads
• Did you know that chargers, such as for cell phones, iPads and laptops etc. use energy if they’re plugged in? When not in use unplug them

These are just a few of the many things that can make your home more energy efficient, however for a more detailed assessment of the energy reducing potential in your home, please contact us, your local Certified Home Inspector.

When buying a new home, it is important to make sure that a radon test has been performed.  A certified home inspector usually does this as part of the seller's home inspection.  You might ask yourself, though, what exactly is Radon?  How dangerous is it? How common is it?  What is involved in testing my home for it? Here are some answers to those questions:
 
What is Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas, that cannot be detected without testing for it. 
 
How dangerous is it?
Radon causes cancer and is responsible for causing many cases of lung cancer per year.  Because radon is undetectable, it means the occupants are unknowingly breathing in this dangerous gas.  If you are a smoker and your house contains high levels of radon, it is especially dangerous.
 
How common is it to find radon in a home?
It is very common and is detected in many homes both old and new throughout the States.
 
What is involved in testing for radon?
There are a couple of different methods that can be used to test for radon.  This involves placing a testing device in the lowest level of your home for a certain amount of time so that radon levels can be determined.  It's important to note however that it must be placed in an area that will be totally undisturbed. 
 
Please contact us, your local certified home inspector for more information on radon testing.  We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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