FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - GENERAL INFORMATION:
Why are energy efficient home renovations Important?
What about the new federal government EcoEnergy Program?
What is Energy Star and why is it important?
What about warranties?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - WINDOWS:
What are Low E and Argon gas and why are they important?
What about claims that Low E is not good because it limits passive solar radiation from heating a home in winter?
What about the gasket material between the panes of a sealed unit?
What about installation of the windows?
What about condensation on the glass panes?
How can I clean Insect Screens?
How can I clean Glass Surfaces?
How can I clean hardware?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - HEATING & COOLING:
What should you know about high efficiency furnaces and heat pumps?
What should you know about high-efficiency and mid-efficiency furnaces?
What is a heat pump?
What about geothermal or ground source heat pumps?
What about solar systems or hybrid solar systems in the Okanagan?
What about chloroflurocarbons and damage to the environment?
Efficiency ratings for furnaces and heat pumps:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - INSULATION:
Why should you insulate?

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - GENERAL INFORMATION:

Why are energy efficient home renovations important?

Recent studies in Canada have confirmed that energy efficient home renovations are the single most important thing homeowners can do to save substantially on home energy costs, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Perhaps most important, retrofitting a home costs less than producing new energy supplies to heat it. Fully 15 to 20 percent of Canada's annual energy use is to heat our homes, and this energy comes mostly from non-renewable resources such as oil and gas. Estimates of the average savings from various energy efficient renovations can be found on the websites of utility companies, Natural Resources Canada, and others. In addition, it is estimated that energy efficient home renovations can save up to 3 Tons of carbon emissions annually (source: CBC, The National, 2/5/2007). Finally, while kitchens and bathroms may still offer a good investment return on home valuation, increasingly realtors are reporting that prospective home buyers are asking about a home's energy efficiency, and to review the home energy bills before making an offer.

What about the new federal government EcoEnergy Program?

The new federal government EcoEnergy Home Retrofit Program is now officially up and running, effective April 1, 2007. Contact us for the full details, and to schedule your home assessement test. The full details are also available at the offical EcoEnergy website shown below.

ecoENERGY Retrofit

Click on the link below:

EcoEnergy Home Retrofit Program

What is ENERGY STAR and why is it important?

The international ENERGY STAR symbol is a simple way for consumers to identify products that are among the most energy-efficient on the market. ENERGY STAR is a Canadian government program of product evaluation and certification, to a higher standard than required by building codes. It identifies products that are among the most energy efficient on the market. ENERGY STAR also identifies climatic conditions in Canada by zones, and helps consumers know what product is required for their zone. Only manufacturers and retailers whose products meet the ENERGY STAR criteria can label their products with this symbol. Choosing an ENERGY STAR-labelled product over a conventional model could save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs.

But there is more to ENERGY STAR than saving money. The use of energy-efficient products can also help save the environment. In many parts of Canada, fossil fuels are often burned to produce electricity. The burning of fossil fuels is a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions - a leading cause of climate change - and other pollutants that contribute to urban smog and acid rain. When you use less energy by selecting energy-efficient products, less electricity needs to be produced. Thus you are reducing GHG emissions and promoting cleaner air as well.

What about warranties?

Complete Home Energy warranties the quality of its workmanship for one full year, which is standard in the industry. Manufacturers product warranties vary from product to product. We advise our customers to carefully review product warranties and to look for product warranties with very specific language and terms, and an explicitly stated warranty period. Beware of so-called "lifetime warranties," which have only a very ambiguous definition in law. Some manufacturers use an alleged "lifetime warranty" to their own advantage, defining the warranty period any way they wish, on a case by case basis. This has led to a host of legal disputes across North America as to the explicit term of so-called "lifetime warranties." Complete Home Energy strives to insure that all products we represent include clear warranty language and an explicit term.

For further info on the problems with "alleged" lifetime warranties, click here: http://www.infoworld.com/articles/op/xml/01/11/26/011126opfoster.html

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS -WINDOWS:

What are Low E and Argon gas and why are they important?

Low E and argon gas are two recent major advances in window construction that have improved the energy efficiency of windows substantially. Low-emission glass (Low-E) is a clear glass, it has a microscopically-thin coating of metal oxide. This allows the sun's heat and light to pass through the glass into the building. At the same time it blocks heat from leaving the room, reducing heat loss considerably. Low E comes in different formulas and different ways of applying it to the glass. Low E SunStop or Low E Squared or Low E Cubed are all simply manufacturersw marketing names. Hard Coat (pyrolytic) and Soft Coat (sputtered) are the ways it is applied to the glass.

Terms such as "Low E SunStop", "Low E Squared", or "Low E Cubed" are nothng more than trademarked marketing names which offer consumers no objective information. The EnergyStar label remains the most reliable consumer assurance of a quality window product, and avoids confusing and complicated technical jargon

Argon gas is a harmless heavy inert gas that is inserted into the sealed unit between the panes of glass. Argon gas is heavier than air and restricts convection and thermal transmission through the window. Scientific studies suggest that the argon gas may escape at a rate of approximately 1% per year. The sealed unit is filled to 85 to 95% of capacity with argon gas, so there is no problem with the argon gas losing its effectiveness.

The best way to insure that you are purchasing windows of the highest quality and energy efficiency, tested to Canadian government standards is to buy windows bearing the ENERGY STAR label.

What about claims that Low E is not good because it limits passive solar radiation from heating a home in winter?

The only time that Low E is not good is in a purposely designed "passive solar" home with huge roof overhangs. In such homes, the design and orientation of the home will invite solar gain through the window and place it in storage for later use. Currently, there are only a very small number of such purposely built passive solar homes in B.C..

Low E is definitely a huge benefit in the vast majority of homes, but you must also choose the Low E that is appropriate for your application. In most cases, simply choosing ENERGY STAR windows will be the best choice. There are other Low E options for optimal resistance to summer heating or to attract winter solar gain in the home. We can discuss these options with you in plain English.

Another important factor with Low E is its value in reducing ultraviolet light, which increases resistance to color fading of furniture, fabrics, and floor coverings.

What about the gasket material between the panes of a sealed unit?

The material used around the edges of a sealed unit of panes of glass is very important. Today's energy efficient windows use advanced materials such as Santoprene, which insure a strong, thermally insulated seal for the life of the window. Santoprene is a composite of high tech materials which provides a low shrinkage factor with significantly improved longevity over rubber products. Santoprene also has a "slip agent" that allows for movement without wear and tear of the material, or causing a failure of the sealed unit.

Terms such as "SuperSeal" or "Squiggle Seal" are nothing more than trademarked marketing names, and by themselves offer consumers no objective information. The EnergyStar label is the most reliable guarantee for consumers of a quality product, and avoids confusing and complicated technical jargon.

Many older windows, installed as recently as 10 years ago, used aluminum, which unfortunately has thermal conductivity properties which are not energy efficient. Other types of seals made from various types of rubber have properties which lead to premature sealed unit failure.

The best way to insure that you are purchasing windows of the highest quality and energy efficiency, tested to Canadian government standards is to buy windows bearing the ENERGY STAR label. All of the window manufacturers we represent use the latest window seal materials, insuring a long service life.

What about installation of the windows?

Installation of the windows is critical, and is governed by British Columbia building codes. The Canadian Standards Association also offers a certification course for installers. Recent changes to the BC code in December 2006 include important changes regarding windows. Not all manufacturers and installers are yet complying with the new code. We can explain these changes to you, and you may be assured that windows from CHE will fully comply with the new BC building code requirements.

Our installers are all permanently engaged by Complete Home Energy, certified and supervised craftsmen. We do not hire casual labour. Our installers are also the only craftsmen in British Columbia who will be certified in April, 2007 for window installation by the Canadian Standards Association. This insures that your window installation will be completed to exacting standards or quality and workmanship. We do not recommend and generally do not install so-called "piggyback" or "insert" windows, which are sometimes quoted by competitors as a "lower cost" option. Beware of such claims. There are many potential problems with window inserts, which typically present themselves after the installer has disappeared.

What about condensation on the glass panes?

Depending on where the condensation occurs, condensation can either be a minor problem or a serious problem. Condensation on the inside surface of the window, or ice forming, typically occurs in periods of very cold outside ambient air temperature. This form of condensation is an indication of excessive humidity inside the home, typically from bathrooms, kitchens or laundry areas. The solution is to ventilate the home using exhaust fans, or to install a dehumidifer, to remove the inside humidity. Many window manufacturers websites include additional information on solving this problem. Condensation appearing between the panes of sealed unit is a clear indication that the unit has failed and should be replaced.

How can I clean Insect Screens?

Follow exterior surface cleaning instructions for all exterior screens. Interior mounted screens can be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment or wiped with a soap & water solution. Use caution when removing and handling insect screens. Torn insect screens or bent screen bars are not covered by warranty.

How can I clean Glass Surfaces?

1. Apply a mild soap or vinegar-based cleaner to the glass, either by spraying or using a clean, grit-free cloth or sponge saturated with cleaning solution. Avoid using ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners, which can cause streaking. Be careful not to damage glazing, frame finish, wood components or insulating unit seals by overgenerous application of cleaners. In addition, comply with the cleaner manufacturer's directions on label for toxicity, handling and flammability warnings.

2. Wipe the cleaning solutions on the glass in a circular motion, applying light to moderate pressure. If streaks appear, rinse surface with clean water. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, wipe dry the interior glazing surfaces, including any interior frame or hardware components to prevent spotting or water damage.

Tip: Glass should be cleaned by starting at the top of the building and systematically working down to glass installed on lower levels. This technique reduces the possibility of residue and cleaning solution rundown on glass previously cleaned.

How can I clean hardware?

1. Clean and lubricate hardware components regularly to prevent excess wear on hardware gears. Use a diluted household cleaner and wipe clean all hardware components, including locks, hinges, operator arms, and handles. Always rinse hardware with clean water to remove any detergent or cleaner prior to lubricating.

2. To lubricate rotary drive hardware, use lithium grease, automotive grease, or Petroleum jelly.

3. To lubricate hinges and rollers: use silicone based lubricants Avoid using petroleum based lubricants.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - HEATING & COOLING:

What should you know about high efficiency furnaces and heat pumps?

If you are exploring the heating and cooling options for your home, and for ways to reduce your energy bills, you should be considering a heat pump and the latest high efficiency furnaces. A heat pump can provide year-round climate control for your home by supplying heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. The advantages of a heat pump over a unit that provides only air conditioning, are so significant that in our opinion, there is almost no reason to choose an air conditioner.

The latest high and mid-efficiency furnaces working in conjunction with a heat pump are the most cost effective and complete climate control systems for homes. Heat pumps can operate efficiently down to approximately - 6 Celsius at which point the furnace takes over heating duties until the outdoor ambient temperature rises again. In the Okanagan climate range, a heat pump can meet most heating requirements, extending the life of the furnace, and using only the furnace blower to circulate air.

In many cases it makes good sense to reduce air leakage and increase thermal insulation before upgrading to a heat pump. We recommend that homeowners assess and upgrade as necessary, their furnace, attic and wall insulation, and upgrade to EnergyStar certified windows and doors. In some cases, it may not be necessary to upgrade an existing furnace in order to install a heat pump. Complete Home Energy can provide you with a free home energy assessment, and discuss the options with you. Simply click on the Free Estimate button on this page.

What should you know about high-efficiency and mid-efficiency furnaces?

If you are replacing an old heating system, you should always consider the most efficient unit available. Even if you pay more for it, you can realize significant energy cost savings - and you can reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. A high-efficiency furnace, also known as a condensing furnace, is the most efficient furnace available, because it provides your home with ideal heating comfort while using less energy than other models. High-efficiency furnaces are designed to extract additional heat from natural gas and, when they do, the flue gases condense, or turn to water - hence, the name condensing furnace.

Mid-efficiency gas furnaces mainly use a naturally aspirating burner and do not have a continuously lit pilot light. They are equipped with a powered exhaust, usually with a built-in induced draft fan, and they do not have a draft hood. With more heat exchange, no dilution air, and high resistance to flow during the off cycle, seasonal efficiency is much higher for mid-efficiency gas furnaces than for conventional furnaces, offering energy savings of 23 to 28 percent over conventional gas furnaces.

If the furnace has an ENERGY STAR label on it, it means that it is an excellent energy wise choice. Only furnaces that are exceptional in energy efficiency (AFUE rating of 90% or more) earn the ENERGY STAR label.

What is a heat pump?

An air source heat pump is an electrical device that draws heat from the outside air or ground during the heating season and dumps heat outside during the summer cooling season. A heat pump is essentially similar to the cooling system on your refrigerator, except that it is fully reversible, so heat pumps can provide year-round climate control for your home - heating in winter and cooling in the summer. As such, heat pumps are generally a more cost effective solution for homeowners than air conditioning only, and heat pumps are in certain cases eligible for utility company and/or government rebates.

A heat pump generally requires that the home have a ducting system throughout the home, and a fan system to circulate air through the ducting, which is typically supplied by the furnace fan system. In cases where there is no ductwork, there are also high efficiency ductless heat pump solutions available. Complete Home Energy can provide you with a free home energy assessment, and discuss the options with you. Simply click on the Free Estimate button on this page.

What about geothermal or ground source heat pumps?

Air source heat pumps (ASHP) and ground source heat pumps (GSHP) are essentially identical in their operation, differing only, as their descriptions imply, in that one uses the outside ambient air and the other uses the ground or ground water to exchange heat from the system, and to provide both heating and cooling in the home. However, the total installed cost of a GSHP is typically several times the cost of an ASHP, making the return on investment much longer than for an ASHP. In addition, in many cases GSHP’s are simply not technically feasible for existing home renovations. GSHP’s currently make the best economic sense in new home construction and in cases where the high cost of the GSHP system can be amortized over more than one home. Consequently, for most existing homeowners we recommend an ASHP, or a hybrid solar and ASHP system, as the most economical choices for energy efficiency in the Okanagan.

What about solar systems or hybrid solar systems in the Okanagan?

The climate in the Okanagan is well suited for hybrid solar systems, which utilize both solar panels and an air source heat pump to store energy. There are already a number of successful installations of hybrid solar systems in the Okanagan. Solar systems can be either “photovoltaic,” meaning that they use solar energy to create electricity, or “thermal”, meaning that they use solar energy to capture and store heat for a variety of uses in the home. Photovoltaic systems are not common in the Okanagan, are typically significantly more expensive than thermal solar systems due to the cost of storage batteries and creating alternating current for home use, and are normally seen only in remote areas not on the electrical grid. An example of this would be the remote islands in the Georgia Strait, or Great Barrier Island in New Zealand. Also, the electrical utility companies in B.C. have not yet widely implemented “reverse” electrical meters enabling homeowners to “sell” their power back to through the electrical grid. Thermal systems have proven to be a very effective means of reducing energy usage in average home renovations, and the return on investment is significantly shorter than for a ground source heat pump. In our opinion, the optimal solar system for the Okanagan climate is a system that combines an air source heat pump with solar panels, to produce an energy storage system for both home space heating and domestic hot water requirements.

What about chloroflurocarbons and damage to the environment?

All air conditioning and heat pump equipment use special refrigerant liquids, which produce the heating or cooling required for each application via the liquids expansion into a gas (cooling) or compression into a liquid (heating). Furnaces do not use these liquids. Chloroflurocarbon liquids originally used for this purpose were found to be a major contributor to the depletion of the ozone layer in our atmosphere. Since that time, a less damaging but still problematic refrigerant known as R-22 has been used. R-22 refrigerant will be banned in Canada beginning in 2010, and a new refrigerant known as R-410, with no environmental impact, wil become mandatory in Canada. HVAC equipment which use R-410 refrigerant are available now with almost no additional cost to consumers. Complete Home Energy is committed now to providing our customers only equipment which uses R-410 refrigerant.

Efficiency ratings for furnaces and heat pumps:

The Office of Energy Efficiency, a department of Natural Resources Canada, administers the energy efficiency ratings of furnaces and heat pumps through the EnerGuide labeling of most equipment sold in Canada. Look for the EnerGuide label on the equipment. Furnaces are rated as to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency or AFUE rating. This should be 80% or higher. Heat pumps are rated as to their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) for cooling and the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) for heating. You will generally see heat pumps sold on their SEER rating, but both values are important. A SEER value of 13 is the minimum now required by the Canadian government. The HSPF value should be no less than 7.5.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - INSULATION:

Why should you insulate?

Unless your home was constructed with special attention to energy efficiency, adding insulation will very likely reduce your utility bills. Much of the existing housing stock in Canada is not insulated to the best level. Older homes are likely to use more energy than newer homes, leading to very high heating and air conditioning bills. Adding insulation may save enough money to pay for itself within a few years, continue to save you money for as long as you own the home, and increase the resale value of your home.

Heating and cooling account for 50 to 70% of the energy used in an average Canadian home. Fully 15 to 20% of energy used in Canada for all purposes is for home heating and cooling. About another 20% goes for heating water. On the other hand, lighting and appliances account for only 10 to 30% of the energy used in most residences. It makes good sense to turn lights and appliances off when they are not needed, but you'll save even more on your energy costs if you reduce the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling, particularly by upgrading your insulation.