When one thinks of the conventional HVAC system, perhaps the simplest device that has been used for sometime is the fan coil unit. Of course, this device has been in use to keep work space cool and especially in cases where heat tends to get generated in large amounts, and can cause damage to equipment if this isn’t taken care of. However, these systems are gradually being replaced by more advanced systems such as portable air conditioners that not only are able to provide additional air conditioning along with the stationary air conditioning units that are already present. Of course, these portable units don’t need too much space and can…

Going green is anything but a fad as this way of living with renewed respect for our environment is seeping into the hearts and minds of people everywhere while also allowing companies to benefit from creating new products and services for customers everywhere. The overall benefits from going green results in one being able to save money, improve their health and most of all, save energy that can be used for later generations in the coming years. And the place where we can begin doing this is in our homes, so here are three gadgets that are under $ 50 and can save you a lot of energy (read: money)…

When it comes to building a home, almost every homeowner will want it looking perfect for the ‘grand opening’. Since this is a lifetime investment, almost every detail of the home becomes even more important to the owner because a lot of money would have been poured into the project. Flooring is also one important aspect that cannot be ignored and there are several traditional as well as modern options that are economical as well. And one such option is that of bamboo flooring which has been prepared differently from its traditional version for greater strength and durability. Of course, with the reputation that it already has in Asia for…

When planning a do-it-yourself home improvement project there are some basic steps to help ensure satisfactory results. First: Know what you want. Check out examples of similar projects online or in magazines and books. Lay out the project by sketching or by using a design software program. Make sure it is completely to scale so you can determine potential problems in usability of space or awkward traffic patterns.  Take into consideration all existing features, such as doors and windows, you will be keeping. Second: Carefully set your budget. Most every home improvement project will go over budget so plan for unexpected expenses. If money is tight you may need to…

Who does not agree that the garden is usually the best part of the whole home layout design? Each room in the house can sure be made into a magnum opus; but the garden, when properly landscaped, will bring out the feeling of ease, calmness and beauty. Garden landscapes come in different designs and formats, depending on what the homeowner wants. And the best part of garden landscaping is the landscape lighting design. Proper lay-out, beautiful designs and strategic placement of the lights will make the garden magnificent. Any landscape lighting parts can be found in brick-and-mortar shops or in online stores. In choosing the best outdoor lights, it is…

For Kitchens by Diane business owner Diane Feuillerat, timing is everything. Having worked for two remodeling and construction companies, and having built a 400-strong client base, she was quite hopeful that her business would experience a bountiful first year. And as fate would have it, her company has worked on two to three times the forecasted deals in spite of the looming negative trends in the housing industry. For the year 2010, there will be more remodeling projects than construction of new homes for the first time ever in 26 years. This year will be one of the worst periods ever for the real estate industry, whose local sales have…

Staying warm at home in cold countries is not an option. It is a must for inhabitants to survive at the least, and to be comfortable at the most. Energy for heating, however, is not free, so house occupants have to do their part in conserving energy despite keeping the heat on during the coldest nights. Home owners and occupants can take note of a basic set of guidelines to keep energy costs to a minimum while not having endure periods of cold inside the house. The number one consideration for people who depend on heating systems is frequently checking the thermostat. It is highly recommended that an electronic thermostat…

The thought of remodeling, renovating, or a new house project around the corner can leave many uneasy and fretting the process. Worried project planners can go to sleep at night eliminating the unnecessary stress associated with disposing of the waste. Waste Management brings you their painless and latest innovation: the Bagster® Dumpster in a Bag®. The Bagster® is an excellent alternative designed for projects that require less waste removal than your standard metal dumpster, but more than the average garbage can hold. The Bagster® may not be waterproof, but it can hold up to 3,300 pounds and holds 606 gallons of debris. It is available in only one size: 8’…