April 30, 2008
If you've got a backyard swimming pool, then you know the costs didn't end with the installation. The need for pool heating, cleaning, and lighting adds up to a substantial boost of the old energy bill. So, why not go solar for as much of those needs as possible?
Whether you're looking to heat a hot tub, an above-ground pool, or an in-ground pool, there's a solar heating system out there for you.
This Sunheater 4' x 20' system from Pool Plaza is designed for use with above-ground pools, and is very affordable at just under $200. It's not quite as inexpensive as those solar sun rings we talked about last year, but I'm sure it does a better job.
Of course, those of you with in-ground pools can expect to pay more and will probably want to get something a little more permanent, but anything you spend today on a solar heater will likely save you money in the long run. The upfront costs to take your pool "off the grid" will always be there, but in the months that follow, you'll enjoy those lower energy bills.
April 21, 2008
I've seen a lot of fireplaces in the years I've been doing this blog, so it's rare for me to glimpse a new one and say, "wow," but this wall-mounted unit from Redwitz Design sure got me there.
It's modern, no it's rustic, no... I'm not sure. It's... The designers, Sylvia and Lukas Redwitz, call their style minimal and distinct. Let's go with that.
The fireplace is called the Mazzetto, and it's made using refined steel, rather than the stainless steel common in a lot of modern fireplaces and surrounds.
There's not a lot of information up on it on the company's website, but we wants it, we needs it, must have the precious. :)
Redwitz via Trendir
April 20, 2008
It must be all those campfires from wilderness trips as a kid, but when I think of firepits, I think of circles (usually circles surrounded by rocks). Well, there's no reason to limit yourself geometrically.
For a modern look in the backyard, check out this square Dinton gas firepit.
The burner and gas components are made from stainless steel, and the firepit shell is of concrete resin construction, so the unit should have no trouble withstanding the elements season after season.
It sure looks like a nice way to warm your hands (or your backside) on a cool summer evening.
From the Urban Garden
April 1, 2008
If you've already remodeled your kitchen with all the latest stainless steel appliances (maybe you've even picked up a stainless steel bathtub or a stainless steel backsplash) and you just can't get enough of the shiny metal stuff, here's another place you can incorporate it into your home: the fireplace.
A stainless steel fireplace surround is sure to lend a clean, modern look to any living room. You better believe it's a lot easier to clean than brick or stone too.
I do have to wonder how hot to the touch a metal fireplace surround would be after a few hours of crackling flames in the firebox. Look but don't touch, and you should be fine.
from U.S. Sheet Metal in Tacoma, WA
March 8, 2008
If you're building a wine cellar in the basement, the fact that it's underground may not be enough to keep your bottles cool enough, especially in hot climates. And if you live somewhere that basements aren't popular and your wine cellar is above ground, then cooling becomes even more important (don't worry; we'll still let you call your storage room a wine "cellar").
You can spend thousands of dollars buying special wine cellar cooling units (AKA air conditioning for your booze), but if you don't have a huge space that you need to work with, you can find a decent unit in the hundreds of dollars.
The Breezaire WK-1060 is perfect for cooling a room up to 140 square feet. Just set the desired temperature, and rest easy knowing your wines are being properly cared for. You will want to make sure your wine cellar is sufficiently insulated for maximum efficiency.
Some extra features you can get for the Breezaire cooling unit are digital temperature controls and "bottle probes" which will actually set the temperature based on the liquid itself.
$645 gets you the base unit from the Wine Enthusiast:
Breezaire Wine Cellar Cooling Units
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