Our HVAC experts – Kate Schiefen and Kevin French – offer tips annually to help Rochester residents reduce home heating costs. The information ran in an article on Saturday in the Democrat and Chronicle. Below are the link and story. Thanks Kate and Kevin for your expertise!
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061202/LIVING/612020310/1032
Quick takes for the home
(December 2, 2006) — Themed holiday trees
Each Christmas, do you proudly trim your NASCAR tree? Do you love bedecking a tree in just one color? What about a tree that's just for the kids? If you're planning a themed Christmas tree — or several — this season, tell us about it, and send us a photo. We're interested in the trees for an upcoming story.
Specifically, let us know what the theme is and why you chose it. Is that the only tree you decorate, or are there others? Is there a funny or sentimental story behind it? How long has it taken you to amass your collection of ornaments?
With your submission, please include your name and daytime phone number. Also include your e-mail address if you have one. Send your entries by Friday to Lisa Hutchurson, Living section, Democrat and Chronicle, 55 Exchange Blvd., Rochester NY 14614. You can also e-mail her at HYPERLINK "mailto:lhutch@DemocratandChronicle.com"lhutch@DemocratandChronicle.com (please put "Theme Trees" in the subject line) or fax her at (585) 258-2554.
Holiday decorating class
A free class on holiday decorating will be offered from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Penfield Public Library, 1985 Baird Road, Penfield. Gather tips and ideas for decorating and see a demonstration on creating permanent and fresh floral arrangements.
For more information or to register, call (585) 340-8720 or go to HYPERLINK "https://www.penfieldlibrary.org/" \nwww.penfieldlibrary.org.
Cut your heating costs
Reduce your heating costs with these tips from Kate Schiefen and Kevin French, experts in the Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning program at Monroe Community College:
· Install a programmable setback, and lower the temperature by 8 degrees for eight to 10 hours a day.
· Maintain a cool, steady temperature.
· Change the furnace filter. Do it whenever you pay your utility bill.
· Add humidity.
· Get a furnace inspection and cleaning. Call the phone number on the sticker stuck to your furnace. Or, take a company up on its seasonal special offer, which often runs $60 to $70.
· Caulk cracks around windows, doors, pipes and cords through exterior walls (like TV cable lines). Or, invest in new windows with proper sealing.
· Ensure attic insulation is at least 6 inches deep.
· Consider a multi-stage furnace.
Holiday premieres
Check out these festive holiday premieres on HGTV (cable channel 56):
Sunday: At 9 p.m., it's Holiday Windows 2006, featuring splashy legendary store windows, from Macy's to Barneys. Re-airs 8:30 p.m. Dec. 11.
Wednesday: At 8 p.m., see White House Christmas 2006, a behind-the-scenes look at holiday decorations and preparations. Re-airs at 8 p.m. Dec. 10.
Dec. 10: At 9 p.m., it's What's With That Christmas House?, a look at unique holiday décor. Re-airs 9 p.m. Dec. 14.
Dec. 17: At 9 p.m., see Over The Top Holiday, about the most outrageous holiday displays.
Broccoli tree
Here's a festive twist on classic veggies-and-dip appetizers: On a large platter, arrange broccoli florets in the shape of a tree (flat against the plate). Trim the tree with sweet yellow peppers cut into star shapes, radishes or cherry tomatoes, and a snowy base of cauliflower. A broccoli-stem trunk and star-shaped dish filled with dip completes the composition.
Lisa Hutchurson compiled this column from staff and wire reports.
Dianne E McConkey
Public Affairs
12/05/2006 |