Photo Credit: daphnegraphics Flickr via Compfight cc
“Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse. ”
Money Saving Tips from SoCal Gas Co
With the cooler weather coming into Southern California, most people will be using more natural gas in their homes. Since natural gas is cheaper than using electricity for our heating needs, many people use natural gas. Southern California Gas Company is offering appliance and energy-efficient natural gas rebates.
Photo Credit: kientevecom Flickr via Compfight cc
Here are some rebates that are offered through So Cal Gas Co. NOTE: rebates may vary based on where you live, so it is best to check with your local provider to see if these rebates are valid.
Water Heater
You can receive a $100 rebate on an ENERGY STAR certified, high-efficiency natural gas storage water heaters with an Energy Factor (EF) of 0.67 or greater.
You can find qualifying water heaters here.
Tankless Water Heater
Receive a rebate of up to $200 on ENERGY STAR certified natural gas tankless water heaters .
- $200 rebate for ENERGY STAR certified models with an Energy Factor of 0.90 or higher
- $150 rebate for high efficiency models that meet a minimum Energy Factor of 0.82-0.89
Note: you must be replacing a conventional tank-type water heater.
Clothes Washer
Receive a $75 rebate on ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2016 clothes washers with Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) of 2.76 or greater AND Integrated Water Factor (IWF) of 3.2 or less.
Receive a $50 rebate on select Higher Efficiency ENERGY STAR certified clothes washers. Must meet ENERGY STAR's current 2016 specifications.
Cold Water Clothes Washer
SoCalGas® offers a $200 rebate on the Whirlpool Cold Water Technology Washer (Model Number WTW4715EW).
Natural Gas Dryer
Receive a $50 rebate on an ENERGY STAR certified natural gas dryer with a Combined Energy Factor (CEF) of 3.48.
For the entire list of rebates offered from SoCal Gas Co here.
In past posts throughout this year we've discussed some energy saving tips that you may find useful: FAST AND FREE SUMMER CONSERVATION TIPS, INEXPENSIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS, and GOOD ENERGY SAVING INVESTMENTS.
Restoring a historical home. Where do you start?
For some people, restoring a historical home sounds like a dream come true. Unfortunately, it can quickly turn into an overwhelming nightmare without the right experience and guidance.
Image courtesy of Old House Journal read the whole article featuring Long Beach designer Marky Morel and Kaplan Construction here.
When considering a historic restoration, period specific research is a great (and fun!) way to get started. Long Beach, California designer Marky Morel found inspiration for remodeling her 1928 Spanish home in books, online and in person. Check out her journey from home remodel vision to better-than-a-dream reality at Old House Journal Online. (Did we mention that Kaplan Construction did the work on this home?)
As historical home restoration specialists, Kaplan Construction has the experience, expertise and network of specialists – from architects to designers to experienced trades - to help you return a vintage classic to its original splendor. Don’t let your dreams of restoration become a nightmare. Contact us at (562) 495-0483 or via email at BOB@KAPLANCONSTRUCTION.COM and let us help today.
Hello, November! Your November To-Do List!
We can't believe it is November already! Hello, November! Here is your November To-Do List!
Photo: One of Kaplan Construction's remodeling projects in Long Beach, CA. For more photos of this remodel, click HERE.
The November To Do List
This month we would like to focus on your kitchen. With the holidays coming up, plenty of time will be spent in the kitchen in the weeks to come.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety first. Make sure that your detectors are working properly and have a fresh set of batteries. If you do not have a carbon monoxide detector, you should install at least one in your home. If you have any appliances that burn fuel (such as gas for your stove or water heater), you need a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Remember, a smoke detector does not serve as both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector and vice versa. You will need both detectors. With the holiday season coming up, the kitchen will be used more than usual, and the probability of a fire or a gas leak is greater. It is best to know that both your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
Clean the Oven, Other Kitchen Appliances, and Cabinets
Cleaning your oven will make sure your oven is working efficiently. Dirty ovens can cause your oven to reach desired temperatures longer - causing a higher energy usage. The same goes with your other kitchen appliances, energy usage may go up if they are not cleaned or maintained.
Grease stains build up over time on your oven, stove, other kitchen appliances, and even your cabinets. You can use a degreaser to remove any grease stains. The longer you leave grease stains in your kitchen, the more difficult it will be to remove them. Note that different materials may need different degreasers. Some degreasers can be too harsh when degreasing cabinets, so be sure to check the type of degreaser you are using.
Clean Your Kitchen Exhaust Hood and Fan
Cleaning your exhaust hood will ensure that your exhaust is working at its optimal efficiency. Grease stains build up on the hood as well, so it may be a good idea to degrease your hood exterior and interior. Clean or replace the filters from your hood. This will ensure that your hood is working effectively.
You exhaust fans collect dust, grease, and debris that build up over time, this build up may cause your exhaust to work harder than it needs to, causing a higher energy usage as well as potentially damaging your fan motor in the long run. Cleaning your hood and fan will ensure good air flow throughout your ventilation system while you are cooking.
Clean and Organize Your Kitchen Drawers
We tend to build up clutter in our kitchen drawers or store items in the wrong drawer over time, making it difficult to find a spatula when we need one. Cleaning and organizing your kitchen drawers can save you time when working in the kitchen. Since all your kitchen tools and accessories are organized you will know where everything you need is. This will save you tons of time during the holiday season.
Completing this to-do list will ensure your kitchen is ready to take on this holiday season!
Contact Kaplan Construction for your general contractor needs at (562) 495-0483 or via email at BOB@KAPLANCONSTRUCTION.COM.
