Filters

It is a fact that forced A/C systems should have filters. These are most commonly located in the heating plenum, but sometimes behind the return registry. Most common filters are made of disposable fiberglass. Permanent metal filters can be installed and are easy to clean. Whichever you chose to use, most have need to be checked monthly.

Failure to maintain your filters can cause clogging of the system and restrict airflow to your house, this will decrease the efficiency of your heating or cooling system, forcing you to use it more often, in turn raising your heating/cooling bill.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or GFCIs are inexpensive electrical safety devices that are designed to reduce the risk of serious electrical shock and/or injury. They are typically installed in outlets on exterior walls and in damp environments. The GFCI will shut off power to the outlet if the electrical flow to the circuit changes slightly. The shut off is instantaneous, thus preventing long powerful shocks of electricty to an operator.

You should consider GFCIs for the following locations:

- Any outdoor/exterior outlets
- Kitchen
- Bathrooms
- Garage
- Basement and Crawlspaces

Recepticals and Switches

Older two prong recepticles normally are not grounded; this makes the newer three prong receptacles much preferable. In most cases it is possible to make the conversion from two to three. This should be done by a trained electrician.

Older houses have fewer outlets and as such the excessive use of extension cords is found to be a norm. This can cause many problems. If the house doesn’t have enough outlets it is preferable that you have extra outlets installed instead of using extension cables.