Archives: Mechanical

Benefits of an ERV System (Energy Recovery Ventilator)

By Todd Fratzel on Ventilation

Benefits of ERV Systems (Energy Recovery Ventilator) If you’re building a new home or doing a major renovations it’s very likely your builder will recommend and possibly insist that an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) be installed. With new construction and renovations the building envelope is typically much more energy efficient and “tighter” than older construction.…

Continue reading »

Nuisance Tripping of AFCI (Arc Fault) Circuit Breakers

By Todd Fratzel on Electrical

Arc Fault (AFCI) Circuit Breakers Tripping Often An arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) or arc-fault detection device (AFDD) is circuit breaker designed to detect electrical arcs that could cause a fire. Loose wire connections can cause electrical arcing and ultimately enough heat to start a fire. In the US these circuit breakers have been required since…

Continue reading »

How To Replace Taco 0014-F1 Circulator Pump Cartridge

By Todd Fratzel on Heating

Replacing Taco 0014-F1 Cartridge I like to try and fix things myself when they are easy and straight forward. Typically I’ll do some research and determine if a home repair is something I can tackle myself or if it’s time to call a PRO. Being a contractor myself I find myself hating to pay top…

Continue reading »

PVC Flue Gas Venting Pipe

By Todd Fratzel on Heating

System 1738 – Engineered PVC Flue Gas Pipe Years ago we started installing gas boilers that allowed venting through PVC Drain Waste Venting (DWV) piping. The use of PVC DWV piping to vent the boilers made for easy routing of vent pipes and the ability to vent up through the roof much like plumbing vent…

Continue reading »

FloLogic Smart Leak Control Review

By Todd Fratzel on Home Automation, Home Automation

FloLogic – Water Leak Detection Every year the insurance industry pays out more than $10 billion in claims due to water damage. As a contractor I can tell you water damage repairs are not only expensive, but they are very disruptive and in most cases insurance doesn’t cover all the costs. With advancements in home…

Continue reading »

Grid-Tied PV Solar Systems

By Todd Fratzel on Electrical, Energy Conservation

Grid-Tied Photovoltaic Solar Systems With the continued increase in electric costs and improved solar panel technology, residential solar systems are becoming very popular. Grid-tied photovoltaic (PV) systems consist of solar panels, an inverter (sometimes more than one), power conditioning equipment, and a connection to the utility system (grid). By tying the solar system to the…

Continue reading »

Nest Pro – The Smart Trade

By Todd Fratzel on Home Automation, Mechanical

Nest Pro The Smart Trade Every day new technology is changing the world of construction and benefiting end users. Smart home technology is forever evolving how we control and interact with our homes resulting in reduced energy consumption and improved living comforts. As a builder and general contractor I know first hand how important it…

Continue reading »

Installing an Air Switch

By Jeff Williams on Electrical, Kitchens

Installing an Air Switch Sometimes when building or remodeling a kitchen, a switch for turning on a garbage disposal may not fit in a convenient spot. This can be especially true if there is a sink in the island. Also, if you’re worried about flipping an electric switch with wet hands, an air switch is a…

Continue reading »

Copyright © 2009-2023 Front Steps Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Home Construction & Improvement™ is a Trademark of Front Steps Media, LLC.