Copyright Free Content » Environment

Take Advantage of Programmable Thermostats to Maximize Energy Savings

ChadJohnson — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:44:29 +0000

From smart phones to programmable thermostats, today’s electronics come equipped with advanced operating systems that make life easier and more efficient. The challenge is knowing how to take full advantage of the capabilities of these devices.

Consider indoor environment devices like programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostats are capable of controlling the entire heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system – from heating to indoor air quality and energy management.

“Adjusting the temperature up and down doesn’t equate to savings or even comfort in the home,” said Jonathan Payne, product manager of programmable controls at Carrier. “The key to total comfort is the homeowner’s ability to control the temperature, humidity, air circulation and energy use.”

Although many homes have programmable thermostats, they may not be programmed or used properly. To truly realize the advantages of a programmable thermostat, consider these tips:

1. Choose a thermostat that manages your system properly and efficiently. Select a thermostat that is not only easy for you to understand and program, but one that controls all of the equipment in your HVAC system, including an air purifier, humidifier, air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump.

2. Have the HVAC control or thermostat installed by a Carrier authorized dealer or other HVAC expert to ensure the wiring and settings are configured to match the needs of your specific system.

3. Choose a program that fits well with your lifestyle, and stick with it. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), energy can be saved if you keep energy-saving set points activated for longer timeframes. So, you could leave home energy-saving set points on during the work/school day, or at night when family members are asleep, for instance.

4. Avoid overuse of the temporary “hold” feature. If you consistently “hold” or over-ride the pre-programmed settings, you could be wasting energy. The EPA suggests that the “hold” and “vacation” settings should be set several degrees warmer and cooler in the summer and winter months, respectively, and only used when you’re away from home for an extended stay.

5. Try not to achieve a quick fix. The EPA’s Proper Use Guidelines for Programmable Controls indicate that you will not heat or cool your house faster by adjusting the temperature on your thermostat to the extremes – up to 80 degrees or down to 30 degrees.

To learn more about Carrier programmable thermostats, call 1-800-CARRIER or visit www.residential.carrier.com.

Take Advantage of Programmable Thermostats to Maximize Energy Savings was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Get Better Heat, Save Money by Going Hybrid This Winter

ChadJohnson — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:31:13 +0000

As the cost of fuel continues to rise, homeowners look for more efficient ways to heat their homes. One of the best ways to achieve efficiency, cost-effectiveness and comfort is to use a Hybrid Heat system. Hybrid Heat systems include a heat pump and gas furnace, managed by a compatible control or thermostat.

Hybrid heat or dual fuel systems deliver exceptional performance by using a heating source that provides its most energy-efficient comfort during moderate heating conditions. As the temperature drops outside, the system automatically switches to your second heating source when that becomes the most economical way to keep your family comfortable.

For instance, the Carrier Infinity Hybrid Heat system includes an Infinity 20 heat pump with Greenspeed intelligence and an Infinity 98 gas furnace with Greenspeed intelligence, managed by an Infinity control. It is more efficient than any gas furnace alone, because it allows the flow between electric and gas heating to optimize the economy of each fuel source.

“The rising price of gas and oil has spurred a great interest in alternative heating solutions,” says Rob Lambert, product manager and application engineer for Carrier’s residential cooling systems. “A Hybrid Heat system allows homeowners to save money on energy costs for years to come, since the system ‘balance point’ is set to help optimize each fuel source, depending on utility costs and weather conditions in your area.”

The secret behind a Hybrid Heat system is the heat pump. A heat pump operates as an air conditioner in hot weather but can also reverse the process and heat the home when cold weather arrives. Rather than burning fuel to generate heat, a heat pump moves heat without a flame. Since most heat pumps operate using electricity, it offers homeowners the flexibility and efficiency of electricity as an alternative fuel source.

With new technology available in the heating and cooling industry, now more homeowners can take advantage of systems that help them save money and provide home comfort.

Visit www.residential.carrier.com for more information on Hybrid Heat systems.

Get Better Heat, Save Money by Going Hybrid This Winter was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Luther, Reformation Celebrate 500 Years in Germany

NewsUSA — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – One of the events which changed world history is now being commemorated in Germany. The Protestant Reformation, the movement to reform the practice of Christianity during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, is currently being celebrated during the "LutherDecade" (2008 – 2017). It is culminating in 2017 with the 500th anniversary celebration of the iconic Reformation leader Martin Luther nailing the 95 Theses to the Wittenberg church.A new website dedicated to North America — Visit-Luther.com — is explaining festivities to celebrate Luther’s life. "LutherCountry" refers to the two German states of Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia in which Luther spent much of his life. The region includes numerous rolling hills, quaint villages, medieval castles and palaces. Visit-Luther.com encompasses a wide range of fascinating churches and museums that are perfect for anyone interested in culture or history, as well as for members of the Protestant faith.It was on October 31, 1517, that Luther famously nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle church in Wittenberg, outlining his thoughts on how the Catholic Church in Europe should be reformed. Luther’s public display of his views is considered the beginning of the Reformation.The "LutherDecade" refers to the build-up to 2017 during which each of the nine years preceding has been given a special theme highlighting numerous activities and events in order to offer various angles on Luther’s life and the era he lived in. The year 2012, for instance, is focusing on "The Reformation and Music" by highlighting Luther’s love for music and prominent composers and musicians of the time by featuring many concerts and events for music lovers.Visit-Luther.com introduces the American public to the fascinating aspects of life back then, providing information on Luther’s life and the places he lived in "LutherCountry." Many photographs show how well the small towns and cities have preserved this precious heritage up to today. An event calendar features festivals on music, food, Renaissance costumes and historical remembrances.A special database also provides information on which American travel companies offer guided tours to "LutherCountry" and which other countries they include. To learn more about Martin Luther’s life, "LutherCountry" and how to get there, visit www.visit-luther.com.

Luther, Reformation Celebrate 500 Years in Germany was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Planning for Comfort During Long Road Trips

NewsUSA — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Road trips can provide a great source of tunes, good conversation and relaxation throughout any travel season. However, long hours on the road can often result in body aches, poor nutrition and other challenges for drivers stuck behind the wheel.
To avoid such pitfalls and make the experience a bit less taxing on the body, champion Porsche race car driver Patrick Long has developed a set of guidelines for drivers everywhere. Long, an American Le Mans Series race car driver who can be in his car for up to 12 hours at a time, recommends these tips for any kind of distance driving:
Fuel-Up: If you pack a small cooler with water bottles and healthy snacks like fruits and veggies, this can deter the temptation to reach for non-healthy items on the road.
Stability: Stability should be your number-one concern when taking a long road trip. Many people stick pillows behind their backs for lumbar support, but the main goal is to always have your spine straight. Sit with the seat fully contacting your back; allow the structure of the seat to do its job in supporting your spine.
Body Positioning: Maintain proper posture by not leaning one way or the other in the seat. According to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Authority, a driver’s hands should both be placed on the outside of the steering wheel on opposite sides. Long recommends the “9 and 3″ hand position. Having proper position in the car is also relative to the pedals — if you’re too close you’re cramped. If you’re too far away, you’ll end up slouching down to reach them. Sit close enough to the wheel so there’s a slight bend at your elbows and keep your arms relaxed.
Take Frequent Pit Stops: For longer-distance road adventures, take frequent pit stops in order to stretch your legs and improve the blood flow in your body. To prevent a sore lower back experienced after driving, focus on core stability and strength exercises. Long suggests planks, leg lifts and crunches on an exercise ball to strengthen your core.
To find more information about Long, check out www.porsche.com/usa.

Planning for Comfort During Long Road Trips was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Stay Regular on the Road This Holiday Season

NewsUSA — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Whether you plan to be on the road or celebrating at home for the holidays, you’ll likely get caught up in the excitement and the frenzy the season brings. Holiday travel poses a special set of stresses, like airport delays and traffic, which can leave you feeling tense and overwhelmed. That’s why it’s smart to always bring along some of the comforts of home to help keep you relaxed and prepared.
Families should be sure to pack all the medications they take on a regular basis, along with common first aid items. And, as occasional constipation can be triggered by stress, being off your regular schedule, and poor diet — which many folks experience during the holidays — travelers should remember to bring along treatment to help stay regular.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases, constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints in the country. Nutrition experts recommend a healthy, balanced diet with fiber, and exercise to combat occasional constipation, but incorporating both into your schedule during the holiday season can be a challenge.
Travel authority and acclaimed author Joel Widzer also recommends getting familiar with your destination and accommodations to reduce stress and stay regular.
“In my travel experiences, I have learned that getting to know a destination is the easy part of your trip, especially with increased access to myriad guidebooks and online reviews,” writes Widzer in his book, “The Penny Pincher’s Passport to Luxury Travel.”
Widzer advises holiday travelers to use the following tips to deal with bowel irregularity:
Stay hydrated. Holidays often mean an increase in alcohol and caffeine consumption, which tend to be dehydrating. Remember to intersperse water between glasses of wine, mimosas and spiced egg nog.
Maintain physical activity. Hotels are making it easy for customers to stay active while on the road by offering running shoes and workout gear as a complimentary service. Familiarize yourself with your accommodations to help plan ahead. Another workout option includes resistance bands, which are lightweight and compact for convenient packing. Travelers can also research the Web for local running and biking trails.
Eat a balanced diet. Holiday feasts aren’t known for their nutrition value, so try to introduce some new recipes this season. Wow your family with fresh vegetable dishes such as baked acorn squash or buttermilk mashed yams. Broccoli, carrots, greens, avocados, apples and berries are all high in fiber, thus great for regularity.
Find a reliable laxative. When all else fails, travelers should be equipped with an effective laxative, like Senokot Tablets. This product offers gentle, overnight relief from occasional constipation. Plus, the new Senokot To-Go packets are perfect for cramped suitcases. Please read full product label before use. For more details, go to www.senokot.com.

Stay Regular on the Road This Holiday Season was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Be the Envy of Your Dream Cruise With a Flattering Swimsuit

NewsUSA — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Booking a cruise is exhilarating, preparing for a cruise is exciting but finding the perfect bathing suit is laced with a different kind of anticipation.There’s a lot of pressure involved when women have to find a suit that’s flattering, cute and comfortable. Unfortunately, it’s a tall clothing order to fill, and the industry is poorly equipped to meet the needs of real women.However, packing for a cruise vacation is far less stressful when ladies can count on their Girltrunks. What are Girltrunks, you ask? Don’t blush if you’ve never heard of them, but please expand your swimsuit horizons.Girltrunks, designed by Debbie Kuhn, dove onto the scene in 2009 to add some comfort and versatility to the world of limited bathing suit options.For the many women who don’t fit into clingy one-pieces or revealing bikinis, Girltrunks are a stylish alternative. Kuhn paired tankini-styled tops with tailored swim trunks to create a comfortable yet fashionable look for real women.While this swimsuit is great for any water excursion, it’s the ultimate choice for cruise vacations. When suitcase space is slim, and every outfit must work in multiple scenarios, Girltrunks are ideal. They are made from a quickly drying fabric, and they come in sizes 4-24 for all the women who aren’t sized like Goldie Locks.Girltrunks are the only swimsuit choice that provide leg coverage for women — with shorts in two different lengths and two different styles of tops. Ladies don’t need sarongs, skirts or cover-up sundresses.This outfit works for swimming, snorkeling, lounging, various sports and any other cruise activities. Thanks to Kuhn, a real woman considering the desires and insecurities of other real women, girls of all ages can enjoy swimming events without being embarrassed of naturally thick thighs or not-so-flat stomachs."I felt so liberated, in swimwear of all things, and I wanted to share that feeling with other women," says Kuhn after she found her clothing gem.Visit mygirltrunks.com to learn more.

Be the Envy of Your Dream Cruise With a Flattering Swimsuit was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Archaeological Wonders In Your Neighborhood

NewsUSA — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – What do Newark, Ohio, Epps, La., Marquette, Iowa and the state of Illinois have in common? They are all sites of some of the most impressive archaeological wonders found anywhere in the world — and most seasoned tourists have no idea.
Native American mounds and earthworks are some of the more underappreciated archaeological treasures in the world, but a new “Top 10″ list is now highlighting these attractions. The list of America’s Indian mounds and earthworks was formed from the authoritative book “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Native American Mounds & Earthworks” and has been widely quoted by travel sites.
Still, few people are aware of the existence of these incredible wonders. The encyclopedia is packed with over 500 photos, and details 1,000 sites that can be visited in 41 states.
American mound building began 5,800 years ago, long before the pyramids of Egypt were even conceived. The number-one site is a massive set of geometric earthworks and mounds centered in Newark, Ohio. It is the largest set of earthworks in the entire world. One part of the site has a large circular wall that encloses 30 acres in downtown Newark.
The Newark site is in pristine condition, and it oddly serves as America’s most unique golf course. It’s an unusual vacation spot and was built 2,500 years ago.
The earthen ridges near Epps, La., are 6 feet high and 80 feet wide and served as platforms for houses and thousands of people. Many of the most impressive sites are found in huge parks with museums, tours and displays. Some mound sites even conduct Native American dances and ceremonies that are open to the public.
Illinois is home to Monk’s Mound, concealing a huge stone chamber that’s never been opened. This massive pyramid is the tallest mound, standing at 100 feet with a base larger than the Great Pyramid in Egypt. Near Marquette, Iowa, is Effigy Mounds National Monument with 200 mounds shaped into the forms of animals. Check out www.apmagazine.info for more details.

Archaeological Wonders In Your Neighborhood was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Helping Save Polar Bears Is As Easy As Texting

ChadJohnson — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:15:26 +0000

Polar bears are loved by people of all ages, all around the world. These magnificent, powerful animals live nowhere else except the Arctic, and they need our help.

Coca-Cola and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) are joining forces to help protect the polar bear’s Arctic habitat. Together they are raising awareness and funds for conservation efforts to create a safe haven for the polar bear. The program is called “Arctic Home.”

To call attention to the cause, for the first time ever, Coca-Cola is turning its iconic red Coke cans white. Shoppers will find these limited-edition cans on store shelves this holiday season. Bottle caps of many other Coke products will also be white.

Coca-Cola is making an initial donation of $2 million to WWF, but they need everyone’s help to protect the bears’ home. To get involved:

• Text the package code to 357357 to make an individual $1 donation to WWF. Coca-Cola will match donations made with a package code by March 15, 2012, up to $1 million.

• Donate and receive a virtual Arctic parcel at ArcticHome.com. You can explore your parcel, take part in video chats with WWF scientists and track virtual polar bear sightings.

• Visit ArcticHome.com to experience and learn more about the polar bear and its habitat.

Helping Save Polar Bears Is As Easy As Texting was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Fiji Resort Captivates ABC’s "The Bachelorette"

NewsUSA — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Imagine a romantic weekend in an exquisite Fiji resort — sleeping in an enchanting villa, snorkeling in turquoise waters and dining on gourmet meals under a blanket of stars.
Sound like vacational bliss? The producers of ABC’s “The Bachelorette” thought so too — for this “perfect date” scenario aired on the July 25 episode of the hit reality TV show.
Fiji’s Koro Sun Resort and Rainforest Spa hosted the newest bachelorette, Ashley Hebert, and her date for a secluded and exotic getaway. The resort is located in lush Savusavu on 150 acres containing a coconut plantation, lavish rainforests and a private lagoon.
The resort created a deluxe couples’ package to wow their ABC stars. The “Passion Under the Palms” package features a five-night stay in the Fantasy Suite, three gourmet meals a day, a candlelit dinner in the rainforest, a snorkeling excursion, spa treatments, a private beach picnic, a waterfall tour and more.
This made-for-TV deal is now offered to all patrons to guarantee a magical vacation. If that package doesn’t suit your needs, consider a variety of others available such as the Adventure package for the thrill seeker in you. Additional recreational activities included are kayaking, biking, tennis, hiking and golf.
Koro Sun Resort prides itself on their extremely hospitable Friendly Fijian Staff. Conde Naste recognized them as the friendliest and most welcoming in the world. Another highlight of the “Passion Under the Palms” package is a special reception–the resort staff welcomes guests with a coconut milk foot soak and massage and freshly chilled coconut beverage.
Just like Hebert’s experience, guests are ushered into the resort with singing and meticulous personalized attention. Staff treat guests to private tours of botanical gardens, island caves, rainforests and waterfalls as if they were family.
Bachelorette Hebert used Koro Sun Resort to take her one step closer to finding her soulmate. She enjoyed tropical luxury at its finest and exposed Fiji’s hidden paradise.
The impossibly blue waters will make any guest feel like a star. Dining options include succulent seafood, fresh, local produce and tender fish fillets. For more information on the resort, go to www.korosunresort.com.

Fiji Resort Captivates ABC’s "The Bachelorette" was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Time-Saving Solutions to Finish Your College Degree

NewsUSA — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – It’s a goal of many recent post-high school students — go to a great university and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years. But why is that easier said than done, and what can be done to stay on schedule?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, fewer than 60 percent of first-time students who sought a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent while enrolled at a four-year institution full time completed the degree at that institution within six years.
Degree completion remains at the forefront of the national agenda as experts predict that, in just 10 years, more than 60 percent of all new jobs will require a college education. Organizations such as the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) are increasing efforts to raise graduation rates by presenting alternative ways to earn a degree quickly.
“Time was the biggest obstacle to getting my degree,” says 54-year-old Briana Taravella.
As time advances, the likelihood of degree completion becomes even more remote. But with alternative methods, such as Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), offered by some colleges and universities and services such as LearningCounts.org, completing credits is more convenient for students — especially adult learners.
“I had to work hard every day, but I was able to earn credit that would have taken longer going through classes,” says LearningCounts.org student Taravella as she references her effort to convert her work experiences to college credit through PLA.
As demonstrated by students like Taravella, PLA saves a lot of time toward degree completion. Hundreds of colleges and universities have used this system to award credit for learning gained outside the classroom — such as work experience, civic activity, corporate training and independent studies. In addition to PLA, here is a list of other ways students are earning college credit while saving time:
* Portfolio-based Assessments
* CLEP Exams
* American Council on Education (ACE) Guides
* Evaluation of Local Training
* Challenge Exams
To learn more, go to www.learningcounts.org.

Time-Saving Solutions to Finish Your College Degree was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com