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Air Conditioning Winter Storage
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Your room (window or wall) air conditioner or portable unit is valuable during those hot summer months, so when winter rolls around, take the proper steps to store the unit. Correctly storing your air conditioner will extend the life of the unit and avoid possible damage.
Remove your air conditioner from the window mounting, wall or portable location to store it indoors. If you are having difficulty removing the unit, look at modifying the mounting bracket or call an air conditioning service professional for assistance. If you are removing a window or wall unit you will want to seal off the opening to stop any drafts.
It is recommended that you store the air conditioning unit in a climate controlled area where it can be protected from the elements. Before you store the unit, it should be cleaned as directed by the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. Then, take the air conditioner, and wrap it in a blanket or similar material to protect it against dirt or dust.
If you are going to store the air conditioner in a basement, do not put it directly on the floor - basements tend to run very damp and the air conditioner can be harmed. BrandSource stores offer all the major brands and we’re your source for low prices and large selection of appliances and electronics. BrandSource combines the purchases of all member stores and that means you get the best value every day. Visit a local store near you to find out more and to receive personalized service.
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5/11/2009 12:08:39 AM
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Dryer Lint – A Nuisance or Dangerous?
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Lint accumulating in dryers is a nuisance, but did you know that it’s also a safety hazard? Fires can occur when lint builds up in the dryer or exhaust duct. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), lint can block air flow, cause excessive heat build-up and result in a fire in some dryers. Follow these tips to keep your dryer lint-free and avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
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Clean the lint trap after each dryer use. Roll lint off with fingers. Use a vacuum (you may need an attachment) to remove accumulated lint from the space where the lint trap sits.
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Lint can settle into other parts of the dryer including underneath, behind and on the floor nearby. Vacuum the top of the dryer and along the sides and behind to be sure to eliminate all signs of lint.
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Disconnect, clean and inspect the dryer vent and exhaust duct periodically. If you are not mechanically inclined or do not feel confident doing the job yourself, hire a professional.
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According to CPSC, dryer ducts should be made of rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct material. Replace ducts if they’re plastic or foil material; they’ll trap lint more easily.
With some basic maintenance and cleaning, your dryer will function properly and you’ll have peace of mind that your home and family are safe. If you’re looking for a new dryer and coordinating washer visit your local BrandSource store and one of our professionals will find the perfect unit to fit your needs. We also have laundry extras like pedestals and towers to make life a little easier. BrandSource is your source for brand name appliances and electronics, large selection and personalized service.
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5/11/2009 12:08:41 AM
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Energy Efficient Washers
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If you’re replacing an old washer or are a first time buyer, consider an energy efficient model. According to ENERGY STAR, a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household does almost 400 loads of laundry each year, consuming about 13,500 gallons of water.
Top loading machines tend to be the most commonly purchased model because of their upfront lower cost, but in the long run they are not as economical as the front load. Front loading washers may cost a bit more at the time of purchase, but the energy efficiency results in savings for you when the utility bill arrives. Front load washers have a larger capacity allowing you to do less laundry. Less laundry means less water usage which equals less heat needed to warm the water. End result - more money in your pocket.
The Energy Guide label on washers provides information on how much energy it uses, compares energy use of similar washers, and lists approximate annual operating costs. Finally, consider purchasing an ENERGY STAR qualified washer. On an average, ENERGY STAR washers use up to 50% less energy than their counterparts.
Browse through our selection of ENERGY STAR qualified appliances then visit your local BrandSource store for details on financing, delivery, installation and extended warranty coverage.
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5/11/2009 12:08:38 AM
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