3 Reasons Why Your Family Needs a Programmable Thermostat

This is not your grandmothers thermostat.  Our new programmable thermostats deliver three things all home owners shouldn't live without.

1. Comfort: The AccuLinkTM Remote Thermostat and the Schlage LiNKTM web-based interface can provide homeowners with an unprecedented level of heating and air conditioning control and efficiency.

2. Convenience: The American Standard AccuLink Remote Thermostat lets you remotely control your home’s temperature from most web-enabled cell phones or computers, to suit your family’s schedule. It also allows for seven day programming with four settings per day for personalized home comfort. In addition, it sends text alerts for filter changes and maintenance reminders before the heating and cooling seasons begin.

3. Peace of Mind: Imagine being able to control who enters your home and what appliances or lights you want on or off remotely.  Thanks to its AccuLinkTM Remote Thermostat and the Schlage LiNKTM web-based interface. The AccuLink Remote Thermostat complements and enhances the functionality of your American Standard comfort system and allows remote access with Schlage LiNK. One simple internet interface can control several aspects of your home, from Z-Wave® enabled lights and small appliances to your heating and air conditioning system.

The American Standard AccuLink Remote Thermostat is compatible with most brands of central heating, cooling and heat pump systems. For more information call ServiceOne and ask for Robb today 563-556-0666
Take a look at the image below for even more info.

The Winning Answer in Dubuque is Geothermal

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geothermal heat pumps are the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost effective systems for temperature control. Although most homes still use traditional furnaces and air conditioners, geothermal heat pumps are becoming more popular.



To find out more about geothermal and how it can save you green CLICK HERE or call 563-556-0666

How To Improve Your Indoor Air Quality in Dubuque and Beyond

As Summer draws to an end allergy sufferers know what's coming.  Fall allergies and all their symptoms.  Although most people regard the Spring as being terrible for allergies, Fall can be just as bad.

According to doctors at WebMD, "Male plants release tiny cells called pollen into the air in order to reproduce. When these pollen or other allergy triggers get into the noses of certain people, their immune system mistakenly sees them as foreign invaders and releases antibodies -- substances that normally identify and go after bacteria, viruses, and other illness-causing organisms. The antibodies attack the allergens, which leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger the runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms of allergies.
During the fall season, ragweed is the biggest allergy trigger. Though the yellow-flowering weed typically begins pollinating in August, it can linger well into the fall months. About three-quarters of people who are allergic to spring pollen-producing plants are also allergic to ragweed. Ragweed pollen can travel for hundreds of miles on the wind, so even if it doesn't grow where you live, it can still make you miserable if you're allergic to it.
Mold is another culprit, because its spores can easily get airborne. The piles of damp leaves that line yards and streets in the fall are breeding grounds for mold, as are damp basements and bathrooms at home.
Dust mites -- microscopic, spider-like insects -- are yet another common indoor allergen."

These are all things to be on the look out for.  Battling against airborne allergens is just one thing ServiceOne is really great at thanks to the help of the American Standard AccuClean whole house filter.  You can learn more about that by CLICKING HERE or better yet give our comfort advisors a call for a free indoor air quality evaluation.  563-556-0666.
In the meantime you can also take a look at this great tool from the EPA.  You can actually take a tour of an IAQ house.

How Are You Networking Your Business in Dubuque?

In today's economy any edge we can get in the market place helps right? ServiceOne is currently taking an aggressive approach to growing our local business by utilizing as many of the social media, Web 2.0 and business directories as possible.  As long as we are not a competitive business it makes sense for us to network amongst ourselves as much as possible.  Area chamber events and lunches aren't cutting it anymore.  Our prospective clients win because of trusted referals instead of random searches.
You never know how how paths may cross right?

Here are some local places we can begin connecting just click the links: LIKE US on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, connect with us on MerchantCircle (Great local directory), and subscribe to our ServiceOne blog. 
At ServiceOne we make it a point to engage on our sites and not advertise blatantly so please share the same courtesy.  We invite you to do so and we will follow suit.  Together we can make sure that all of our businesses thrive.
To connect in person contact Robb at 563-556-5577.

So You Need a Plumber or Some Plumbing Repair in Dubuque?

In a continuing effort to help our clients and community we wanted to share some tips on what to look for when hiring a plumber for either residential plumbing repairs or commercial plumbing needs.  Click Here to read a great article from the folks at This Old House on this very subject.
From clogged drains to total bathroom remodels to new construction, ServiceOne technicians can handle your plumbing needs. Our licensed plumbers are bonded professionals, so they have the skills to get the job done right. Our vans are fully stocked with replacement parts so you can avoid the inconvenience of a second appointment. 

Some of the services our plumbers provide include installing water heaters, gas or electric, installing sump pumps, running gas piping and of course toilet, sink and bathroom repairs.
Call today for a free estimate or a quick repair. 563-556-0666.

Do I Need To Replace My Water Heater and Furnace After a Flood?

After last week's massive downpour in Dubuque and around the Tri-state area we wanted to share some answers to some of the frequently asked questions. The main one we have been answering is, "Do I need to replace my water heater and furnace after they have been flooded?"

Here are some highlights from the Serviceguard page from Black Hills Energy:

Q: My furnace and water heater were flooded. What happens to them?A: If your furnace or water heater were submerged in floodwaters, they will need to be inspected by a licensed contractor or other qualified service technician before service is restored.

You may have to replace your furnaces gas valve and all electrical controls, wiring, motors and safety components. However, it may be cheaper to replace the furnace than to purchase and replace the separate components.

You may also need to replace your water heater, whether it’s gas or electric. Water heater gas valves and the internal wiring in electric models can be costly, and often times may exceed the cost of a new water heater. Corrosion can also attack relief valves, which may “freeze” shut or continuously leak. Additionally, the floodwater may have damaged the internal insulation around the water heater tank causing corrosion and failure of the water tank.

Q: I only had a few inches of water in my basement. Do I still need to replace my furnace and water heater?
A: A licensed contractor or other qualified service technician will need to inspect your heating equipment for possible damage as well as check your gas service line for water before it will be placed back into service.

Q: Replacing a furnace and water heater is expensive. Why can’t I just let the equipment dry out and then use it?
A: Your appliances and heating equipment are all protected by safety components. These components as well as the gas valves, motors and wiring are prone to corrosion and failure after they have been subjected to the silt and other contaminates contained in flood water. These contaminates cannot be removed by merely washing them off. The Gas Appliance Manufacturer’s Association sets national specifications for the manufacture of all gas heating and cooking appliances and GAMA states that flooded equipment should be replaced and NOT repaired.

To get a FREE estimate on any of your flooded aplliances like water heaters or furnaces please call us at 563-556-0666.  Our comfort advisor Robb will be more than happy to help you out.

A Cool New Commercial From ServiceOne

With a little help from American Standard we are keeping people cool and laughing this summer.

Dynamite Savings with ServiceOne

In an effort to make indoor air quality more affordable ServiceOne has teamed up with Dynamite Coupons to offer you some explosive deals on a new furnace, air conditioner or comfort system.
Click the link above and head to the ServiceOne section to print out your coupon.  Don't forget to Like us on Facebook as well.

For more information or to set up a FREE comfort consultation now call Robb at 563-556-0666

Inflow & Infiltration in Dubuque, Are You Up To Code?

In the next few months you are going to be hearing alot about Inflow & Infiltration in the city of Dubuque.  We wanted to give you a heads up so you can prepare and know what to do in case you are not up to code.

The City of Dubuque has recently started property inspections as part of its Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Program to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and sewer back-ups by eliminating storm water inflow and groundwater infiltration into the City’s sanitary sewer collector system.

Inflow is a direct connection of “clear” water (rain/storm water) into the wastewater (sanitary sewer) collection system. Infiltration is an indirect connection of “clear” water to the wastewater (sanitary sewer) system. Inflow is by far the larger problem of the two and occurs in direct proportion to rainfall.

Inflow is most often the result of improperly installed sump pumps (used by many homeowners to keep groundwater out of basements), roof downspouts, and foundation drains illegally connected to the City’s sanitary sewer system. Sump pumps are also sometimes illegally connected to the sanitary sewer system via a hose leading from the sump to a laundry tub or floor drain. Infiltration occurs when groundwater seeps into sewer pipes through cracks, leaky joints or deteriorated manholes.

Our ServiceOne team can help you get up to code in no time. 

For more information please call 563-556-0666

A Guide to Finance a New Furnace or Air Conditioner

At ServiceOne we continue to strive to make investing in a new comfort system as easy as possible.  Check out this video to learn how you can save on your next furnace or air conditioner.

Financing Options For Heating & Air Conditioning Equipment in Dubuque

At ServiceOne we believe that money should never be an issue in being a deciding factor in improving your indoor air quality.  Once you have selected the perfect comfort system with your comfort advisor, we make investing in your new comfort system a breeze.

CLICK HERE to read a great article on what to look for as well.

On our ServiceOne website we have teamed up with Black Hills Energy, Alliant Energy and Wells Fargo to help you invest in the comfort system you deserve.

If you have any additional questions or concerns feel free to contact
Robb at 563-556-5577.

ServiceOne Shines at the ARC Games in Dubuque

This was the first year ServiceOne participated at the ARC (Area Residential Care)Corporate Community Games and it was a blast.  Teams of 8 or more were tasked to compete in challenging and often silly type games for the coveted chicken plunger trophy.  Although ServiceOne didn't win we won 5 out of 10 events in our heats so not bad.  We'll get them next year.  Special thanks to all our special friends and family members who joined us in the competition.

Silly Fun with ServiceOne

Robb & Tiffany



Sam & Mary Jo





Sue in Action





Team ServiceOne



Very Funny Commercial...Seriously

When you are hot and sweaty because your air conditioner is not working a smile is hard to come by...until now.  Check out this great ad and if you need some help after let us know.



For service or a FREE estimate call Robb at 563-556-0666

Water Heater Updates and Tips From ServiceOne Dubuque

If you haven’t bought a new water heater in the last 4 to 5 years, you may be in for a shock. About 3 years ago, the government regulated that certain changes be made regarding efficiencies and more importantly the design of “gas fired” water heaters. The design change was made to prevent the water heater from being the “source of ignition” in case there was a potential buildup of explosive gases [generally assumes a gas leak]. 

This safety design change increased the cost of the unit substantially. When buying a new water heater, you should investigate to make sure that the units’ safety mechanism can be reset in case of activation. This is not true of all units. Those units that can’t be reset may need to be replaced if the system is ever activated.

Check out the video below for even more great tips on keeping your water heater running more efficiently.



To find out more about water heaters and tankless water heaters call 563-556-5577 and mention this post.

Have a Safe Memorial Day From ServiceOne

Here's a little Memorial Day hiistory for you to enjoy courtesy of the History Channel.  Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday of May, honors the men and women who died while serving in the American military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, at least, it marks the beginning of summer. In 2011, Memorial Day is observed on Monday, May 30.



Although the main ServiceOne office will be closed on Memorial Day our on call technicians will be available to help you with any emergency.  563-556-5577.

Treating Children's Allergies and Asthma in Dubuque

Are your children effcted by allergies or asthma in Dubuque?  As part of Asthma and Allergy Awareness month we wanted to share as much useful information with you as possible.
First off here are some startling facts about allergies and asthma in Dubuque and beyond thanks to the folks at the Nationl Asthma and Allergy Foundation.
Asthma is one of the most common serious chronic diseases of childhood.
Asthma is the third-ranking cause of hospitalization among children under 15.
An average of one out of every 10 school-aged children has asthma.
10.5 million school days are missed each year due to asthma.

Sound familiar?  In Dubuque there are some great resources you can use like the video below.




ServiceOne can also help make things more comfortable for you with an American Standard AccuClean whole house air filter. Click Here for more information or call 563-556-0666 to request a FREE indoor air quality evaluation for your home or business.

Fun at the Annual Dubuque Chamber Golf Outing

ServiceOne is sponsering the 16th hole at the Meadows Golf Course. Come hula with us.

How Are You Handling Your Asthma in Dubuque?

Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month

 As part of our series on Asthma and Allergy Awareness month we wanted to share this great article from the folks at Fox News Health.

Asthma is a serious and costly health issue that has an estimated annual cost of $19.7 billion – nearly $10 billion in direct health care costs and $8 billion for indirect costs (lost earnings due to illness or death). (Source: The Costs of Asthma, Asthma and Allergy Foundation 1992 and 1998 Study, 2000 Update)

Earlier this month, government researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new study showing asthma rates have risen dramatically since 2001. The study also found the increase was present in every demographic group – men, women, blacks, whites and Hispanics – affecting one in 12 of all Americans and one in 10 school-aged children.

Although researchers could not explain why asthma is on the rise, in recent years many scientists believe environmental pollution may be a contributing factor. Tobacco smoke, pesticides and harsh, toxic cleaning products – commonly used in homes, schools, businesses and medical facilities – lead to poor indoor air quality and can trigger and exacerbate asthma symptoms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
• Asthma is the most common chronic condition among children.

• Each day, 11 Americans die from asthma, totaling over 4,000 asthma-related deaths each year. Asthma is a contributing factor in another 7,000 deaths.

• Asthma is the leading cause of school absenteeism and the fourth leading cause of work absenteeism resulting in nearly 12 million missed or less productive workdays each year.

• Asthma accounts for more than 10 million outpatient visits and 500,000 hospitalizations. Nearly half (44 percent) of all asthma hospitalizations are for children and is the third-ranking cause of hospitalization in children.

• Since 1980, 0 among all genders, age groups and ethnic groups. The death rate for children under 19 years has increased by nearly 80 percent.

Deirdre Imus is the Founder and President of The Deirdre Imus Environmental Health CenterTM at Hackensack University Medical Center and Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Imus Cattle Ranch for Kids with Cancer. Deirdre is the author of four books, including three national bestsellers. She is a frequent speaker on green living and children’s health issues, and is a contributor to FoxNewsHealth.com. For more information Click Here.

ServiceOne can also help make things more comfortable for you with an American Standard AccuClean whole house air filter. Click Here for more information or call 563-556-0666 to request a FREE indoor air quality evaluation for your home or business.

Are You Aware of Why Your Asthma and Allergies are Worse in the Spring?

As part of our series on Asthma and Allergy Awareness month we wanted to share this great video from the doctors at Medical Associates right here in Dubuque.




ServiceOne can also help make things more comfortable for you with an AccuClean whole house air filter. Click here for more information or call 563-556-0666 to request a FREE indoor air quality evaluation for your home or business.

ServiceOne Wants You To Know May is Asthma Awareness Month

Asthma is a serious, sometimes life-threatening chronic respiratory disease that affects the quality of life for almost 25 million Americans, including an estimated 7 million children. Although there is no cure for asthma yet, asthma can be controlled through medical treatment and management of environmental triggers.
During the next few weeks ServiceOne in Dubuque will be offering valuable tips and resources to help you learn more about asthma and how to deal with it.

As an extra bonus ServiceOne will be conducting FREE indoor air quality evalutions and will offer 10% off any AccuClean air filteration systems.  Call Robb for more information 563-556-0666.

How To Clean Your AccuClean Air Filter System

Now that everyone is starting to open their windows up and allergy season is starting we wanted to remind you to make sure you keep your whole house filteration system working properly.
Here’s something to sneeze at: Did you know that up to 72 trillion microscopic irritants, or allergens, find their way into your home every day? The most common trespassers are dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, dust mites, mildew, lint, fungus, tobacco smoke, cooking grease and bacteria. Some particles like these are often as small as .3 microns – so small that 2 million of them could fit on the period at the end of this sentence. Besides the allergic effect they might cause, many of these particles are so small that the natural defenses in your nose and throat can’t filter them out, and they can get deep into your lungs.
Here is a way you can kick these critters out of the house. The AccuClean Whole-Home Air Filtration System catches up to 99.98 percent of allergens in the filtered air down to .1 microns. So while it might be allergy season outside, inside you’ll be breathing clean and clear indoor air, which may also help reduce the risk of asthma attack, stroke, heart attack, respiratory disease and other serious illnesses.

Check out our How To Video Now!

To find out how you can get an AccuClean to help your family or for a FREE indoor air quality evalution in the Dubuque area call 563-556-5577 and mention this post.

Toot Your Own Horn With ServiceOne in Dubuque

ServiceOne in Dubuque invites you to stop by this year's "Toot Your Own Horn" event at the historic Roshek Building on Tuesday May 3, 2011.

Toot Your Own Horn is not only an opportunity to network with your fellow business professionals, but also a chance for the public to see what we have to to offer. Come help support the Dubuque Economy and make sure to stop by the ServiceOne booth to learn how you can save money on your utility bills.
Event Location

Date/Time Information Tuesday 5-7 pm

Roshek Building Lobby
800 Locust Street 

Dubuque Community Days of Caring Continues for ServiceOne

It was a great day for general cleanup at Step By Step in downtown Dubuque today.  Thanks to Tim and Trinity for joining in on the fun.

Bringing Down the House During the Dubuque Community Days of Caring

As part of the Dubuque Community Days of Caring ServiceOne was assigned to help dismantle props and set pieces from the Dubuque's historic Grand Opera House.

Bret Milbert, Mary Jo Fleege, Robb Beltran



Mary Jo Fleege



Robb Beltran



Behind The Curtain of The Wizard

Volunteer efforts continue on Saturday morning as ServiceOne lends a hand to the folks at Step By Step in downtown Dubuque.

HVAC and Plumbing Technicians Wanted in Dubuque

Are you ready to join Northeast Iowa's number one team for providing the best comfort systems available?

We are looking for HVAC and Plumbing Technicians.  CLICK HERE to learn more.  Great pay and benefits for the right person.

Earth Day Activities

April 22nd is Earth Day, it's only a few short days away! This year, Earth Day's theme is themed after A Billion Acts of Green: our people-powered campaign to generate a billion acts of environmental service and advocacy before Rio +20.
Ready to take part in Earth Day 2011? Here is how you can get involved:
Earth Day 2011

At ServiceOne we keep GREEN by installing  EneryStar high efficient equipment.  Call us today to find out how we can halp you save more money and energy. 563-556-5577

SeviceOne and the Dubuque Community Days of Caring

ServiceOne in Dubuque is proud to be helping out at this year's Dubuque Community Days of Caring on
April 29-30, 201.  It's a great event to help out the community and it only takes a few hours to make a difference.

Join in on making a difference in the community at the sixth annual Dubuque Community Days of Caring on Friday, April 29, 2011 and Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Volunteers from around the Dubuque area will join local charities & organizations to work on one time service projects. Anyone and everyone from Dubuque and the surrounding communities are encouraged to volunteer to make a difference in the community.

To sign up go to http://www.dbqdaysofcaring.org/ and click on the volunteer form, fill it out and click to submit.
If you want to join the ServiceOne team for the day contact Robb at 563-556-5577 asap.

Today is The Day To File Your Taxes

This year we all got a three day extension to file our taxes thanks to Abraham Lincoln, kind of.  Here's a recap from the Associated Press that explains a little better.  After you read it...go and get it done!

The filing deadline was delayed until midnight Monday because the District of Columbia observed Emancipation Day Friday. By law, local holidays in the nation’s capital affect tax deadlines the same way federal holidays would. States generally follow the federal deadline.
Emancipation Day marks the occasion when President Abraham Lincoln signed a law ending slavery in the District of Columbia. Lincoln signed it April 16, 1862, more than eight months before he signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which eventually led to all slaves being freed.
April 16 fell on Saturday this year, so the holiday was observed April 15, the traditional tax filing deadline.

You May Be Eligible For Some Money To Help With Your Utility Bills

Home heating aid advocates say that many poor families have been hard hit in this year's colder than normal winter and by rising fuel prices, particularly in the Northeast, where people depend more on heating oil.
CLICK HERE to read full story.

Why Maintaining Your Heating & Cooling Systems Is So Important

If you are a small business owner then you should really check out this article...
Why Maintaining Your Heating & Cooling Systems Is So Important

It could save you thousand of dollars in the end.

News You Can Use

We take pride in being to help people within the Tri-State area so we want to make sure you know what's going on.  Here are a few links to some local events you may find interesting.  If you have more let us know and we will share them with our other fans and clients as well.
Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and the Telegraph Herald Community Events Page.

Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?

Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?  This is the time of year we get asked this question most of all. 
According to the folks at Energy Star and the U.S. Department of Energy here are a few things to consider:
If your Heating and air conditioning equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading, consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $200. But before you invest in a new Heating and air conditioning system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.

To learn more about what ServiceOne can do to help you with your heating and air conditioner needs call 563-556-0666 today! ServiceOneDubuque.com

Are You in The Air Conditioning Twilight Zone?

Check out our latest ServiceOne commercial.  Please let us know what you think.

Is it Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner?

I know it's still a little brisk outside, but I thought I'd get your air conditioing juices flowing with this great commercial from American Standard.


As usual if you'd like a Free indoor air quality evaluation just give Robb Beltran a call at 563-556-0666

New Photos From ServiceOne

If you didn't get a chance to stop out at the home show this past weekend make sure to check out the pictures in our ServiceOne photostream or on the left side of the ServiceOne Blog.

Great Weekend For a Homeshow

So far so good. We've had a geat turn out at this years Dubuque Homebuilders Show at the Grand River Center. Mention you are a Facebook friend and collect a nice gift.  See you all soon.

Clear The Air With ServiceOne at The Dubuque Home and Builders Show

Come check out the AccuClean whole house air filteration system at Tri-State Home and Builders Show this weekend. The AccuClean is the most advanced way to filter and clean the air throughout your entire room. AccuClean is 8 times more effective than even the best HEPA room appliance, and 100 times more effective than a standard 1" throwaway filter or ionic-type room appliance. AccuClean removes up to an unprecedented 99.98% of unwanted particles and allergens from filtered air in your home. This should bring a welcome comfort to family members who suffer from asthma or allergies. With AccuClean air filtration as a part of your total home comfort system, you and your family will breathe easier than ever before.

Stop by at the Grand River Center on March 11-13th
Friday 5PM - 9PM
Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Sunday NOON - 5PM

Tri-State Home and Builders Show 2011

Spring is here once again and that means "Home Show" season.  We will be starting our season with a great one.  Come and join us  at the Tri-State Home and Builders Show 2011 at the Grand River Center on March 11-13th.
Friday 5PM - 9PM
Saturday 10AM - 6PM
Sunday NOON - 5PM

You’ll find a million ways to SAVE GREEN and GO GREEN on your next home improvement project. You'll also get a chance to learn more about tankless water heaters, American Standadard furnaces and air conditioners, the newest programmable thremostats, infloor/Radient heat and most of all how to save more money on your energy bills.  

 

The first 25 to stop by our booth and mention you saw our ad on Facebook or our blog will RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT.

How to Reduce The Condensation On Your Windows

A big issue during the winter months in the midwest is condenstation on the windows.  Here are a few things to look out for courtesy of the folks at EHOW.

1.Why is there more moisture occurring on my windows this winter ? There are a few reasons. It may be colder outside. You may be trying to save money by turning down your thermostat (too low). Your house is built better, there are no air leaks. You are not bringing in any fresh (dry winter) air. You are not using your bathroom fan when you shower and kitchen fan when you cook. You are not getting warm air flow across your windows. You have older single pain windows.
2.To understand what is happening we need to look at some basic environmental science. Cool air is able to hold less moisture than warm air. Therefore, when the warm, moist air inside the house comes into contact with the cool glass surface, some water vapor that can no longer be held by the cooled air is deposited on the glass. The point on which the water condenses is called the "Dew Point" If it is the inside face of the glass - you want to change that.
3.If you can have more warm air flowing across the inside face of the window this will keep the water from condensing on it's surface. Do not have drapes or blinds closed on your window - they will impede the flow of warm air.
4.Don't lower the inside temperature of your home too low. Colder air cannot hold the moisture and it will condense on your windows.
5.Turn on your bathroom fans when you are running water, showering or bathing. Turn on your kitchen fan when you are boiling water in the kitchen.
6.On days when the temperature is not too cold - open a window and turn a fan on. This will draw dry air from the outside in and push the moist air out.
7.Consider installing ceiling fans in large open areas - this will push the warm air back down and across any large windows.
8.Wipe off any moisture before the water leaks down inside your walls and causes mold. Eventually you will find a balance between comfortable humidity levels and too much moisture on your windows. Buy a hygrometer and try to keep your humidity levels around 35-40 during the winter months. (Hygrometers are instruments used for measuring humidity)
How to Reduce The Condensation On Your Windows eHow.com

To learn more about what ServiceOne can do to help you with your window condensation problem call 563-556-0666 today! ServiceOneDubuque.com

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

With everyone trying to save money these days on their energy bills the curiousity for tankless water heaters has risen dramatically.  Here's a great article for you courtesy of the U.S. Department of Energy

Demand (Tankless or Instantaneous) Water Heaters

Demand (tankless or instantaneous) water heaters provide hot water only as it is needed. They don't produce the standby energy losses associated with storage water heaters, which can save you money. Here you'll find basic information about how they work, whether a demand water heater might be right for your home, and what criteria to use when selecting the right model.

How They Work

Demand water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. Therefore, they avoid the standby heat losses associated with storage water heaters. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. Either a gas burner or an electric element heats the water. As a result, demand water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. You don't need to wait for a storage tank to fill up with enough hot water. However, a demand water heater's output limits the flow rate.

Typically, demand water heaters provide hot water at a rate of 2–5 gallons (7.6–15.2 liters) per minute. Gas-fired demand water heaters produce higher flow rates than electric ones. Sometimes, however, even the largest, gas-fired model cannot supply enough hot water for simultaneous, multiple uses in large households. For example, taking a shower and running the dishwasher at the same time can stretch a demand water heater to its limit. To overcome this problem, you can install two or more demand water heaters, connected in parallel for simultaneous demands of hot water. You can also install separate demand water heaters for appliances—such as a clothes washer or dishwater—that use a lot of hot water in your home.

Other applications for demand water heaters include the following:

·         Remote bathrooms or hot tubs

·         Booster for appliances, such as dishwashers or clothes washers

·         Booster for a solar water heating system.

Although gas-fired demand water heaters tend to have higher flow rates than electric ones, they can waste energy if they have a constantly burning pilot light. This can sometimes offset the elimination of standby energy losses when compared to a storage water heater. In a gas-fired storage water heater, the pilot light heats the water in the tank so the energy isn't wasted. The cost of operating a pilot light in a demand water heater varies from model to model. Ask the manufacturer how much gas the pilot light uses for the model you're considering. If you purchase a model that uses a standing pilot light, you can always turn it off when it's not in use to save energy. Also consider models that have an intermittent ignition device (IID) instead of a standing pilot light. This device resembles the spark ignition device on some gas kitchen ranges and ovens.

For homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. They can be 8%–14% more energy efficient for homes that use a lot of hot water—around 86 gallons per day. You can achieve even greater energy savings of 27%–50% if you install a demand water heater at each hot water outlet.

Selecting a Demand Water Heater

Demand water heaters cost more than conventional storage water heaters. However, you may find that a demand water heater may have lower operating and energy costs, which could offset its higher purchase price.

Before buying a demand water heater, you also need to consider the following:

·         Size

·         Fuel type and availability.

·         Energy efficiency (energy factor)

·         Estimate costs.

For information about specific demand water heater models, see the Product Information resources listed on the right side of this page (or below if you've printed out this page).

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance of your demand water heater can optimize its energy efficiency.

Proper installation depends on many factors. These factors include fuel type, climate, local building code requirements, and safety issues, especially concerning the combustion of gas-fired water heaters. Therefore, it's best to have a qualified plumbing and heating contractor install your demand water heater. Do the following when selecting a contractor:

·         Request cost estimates in writing

·         Ask for references

·         Check the company with your local Better Business Bureau

·         See if the company will obtain a local permit if necessary and understands local building codes, etc.

If you're determined to install your water heater yourself, first consult the manufacturer. Manufacturers usually have the necessary installation and instruction manuals. Also, contact your city or town for information about obtaining a permit, if necessary, and about local water heater installation codes.

Most tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of more than 20 years. They also have easily replaceable parts that extend their life by many more years. In contrast, storage water heaters last 10–15 years. Periodic water heater maintenance can significantly extend your water heater's life and minimize loss of efficiency. Read your owner's manual for specific maintenance recommendations.

Improving Energy Efficiency

After your demand water heater is properly installed and maintained, try some additional energy-saving strategies to help lower your water heating bills. Some energy-saving devices and systems are more cost-effective to install with the water heater.

To find out more about tankless water heaters in Dubuque contact ServiceOne today at 563-556-0666

Heating and Air Conditioning Fun with ServiceOne Dubuque

ServiceOne Is Just Right at Business P.M.

Our ServiceOne folks dressed up as Goldilocks and the 3 ServiceOne Bears for this years annual Main Street Business P.M. and things couldn't have gone better.  More than a hundred people stopped by the ServiceOne booth to say hello and register for a great prize.  Lily McKinlay from Dubuque joined the fun to play Goldilocks for the night and help spread the word about ServiceOne.  It must have worked because Lily won best dressed woman in the nights contest.  Congrats Lily and thanks for the help.  Check out our photos to the left and tune in for the winner of the new installed programmable themostat Wednesday.