Category: Environment

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint With Insulation

Attic insulation is the way to go if you want to keep your home warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and save energy throughout the year. The United States Department of Energy has stated that adding insulation to your attic is one of the best home comfort measures you can take. Most homeowners don’t realize the amount of money that they’re throwing away by not installing new insulation. Upgrading existing attic insulation is also a viable cost-effective solution. Having qualified insulation installers line your attic with well-crafted insulation is one more step to living a more pleasant lifestyle, while reducing your overall heating bill and contributing to the environment. This winter is sure to bring about a definite chill in the air, so go the easy, eco-friendly route and install attic insulation.

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Do I Really Have to Think About Asbestos in 2016? Here’s What You Need to Consider

Researchers in the United States started recognizing the dangers of asbestos in the early 20thcentury. Still many major industries continued to use asbestos to create structures and goods throughout the 20th century, hitting its peak in the U.S. from 1940 to 1975. Though the Environmental Protection Agency banned products containing asbestos in 1989, most of this ban was lifted in 1991. The United States stopped producing asbestos in 2002, but it still imports approximately 3,000 tons per year. This may cause you to wonder, is asbestos still something to worry about in 2016? What You Need to Know About Asbestos Many people are not aware that asbestos is still being used in the United States as most commercial uses of asbestos are still allowed. Here’s what you need to know about asbestos and whether or not it still poses a threat to you and your family. What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a group of minerals that are made up of long, thin fibers, which cannot be seen by the naked eye. These minerals occur naturally in six different forms, mostly in underground rock. Asbestos is a highly durable material that is resistant to heat, fire, and chemical damage. The material works

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Refrigerant Leaks and Health Issues

The chemical component Refrigerant is used in several ways in industrial manufacturing. Notwithstanding, its’ large scale use highlights some important issues about the health of humans. Refrigerant is a brand name encompassing a range of chemical elements, otherwise referred to as chlorofluorocarbons. This name reflects the fact that these elements include hydrogen, carbon, fluorine and chlorine. The Refrigerant group’s most significant parts are Refrigerant Twenty-two, Refrigerant Twelve and Refrigerant Eleven. Typically, Refrigerant takes the form of a colorless, non-flammable gas or liquid. Primarily, it is used for making fluorocarbon resins and lubricants, and for refrigeration. Also, it is used as an aerosol propellant solvent. While it has multiple uses, in some circumstances, Refrigerant may pose a threat to human beings. How Exposure to Refrigerant Impacts Animals and Children Refrigerant remains near to the surface of the earth, because it is three to four times the weight of air. Consequently, those who are nearer to the floor or ground are more likely to breathe in the chemical. Pets and children (especially dogs, due to their heightened sensitivity) are far more vulnerable to the chemical’s effects. If you become aware of Refrigerant leaks in your property, open all doors and windows straightaway,

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Energy Efficient Heating

What Los Angeles Homeowners Need To Know About LADWP’s Electrification Program

There’s a buzz around California, and it could mean big changes for homeowners. Electrification is all the talk with local utility providers. Something is coming, and you might wonder… what is it, exactly?  The state of California has aggressive goals related to climate change. In action, this means reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Studies have revealed that buildings in California, like single-family homes, account for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the emissions from buildings is an important endeavor in the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow climate change.  What Does Electrification Mean?  Electrification means switching a building from multiple energy sources to 100% electricity.  Greenhouse gas emissions come from the energy we use in our homes: both electricity and natural gas. And while electricity use has been on the decline in California, there has been almost no change in natural gas usage. That’s where electrification comes in.  Local utility companies, including LADWP, commissioned a study to determine how effective electrification would be in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study also provided recommendations on how to implement electrification.  The study revealed that an all-electric home would produce 45% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a home with mixed

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asbestos

Do I Really Have to Think About Asbestos in 2021?

Like any industry, innovations happen in the HVAC business all the time. Some of the more recent innovations include ultra high-efficiency air conditioners, connected home technology, and air purifiers that destroy the coronavirus. Insulation is a key part of regulating the heat in any building, and for many years industry professionals used asbestos in building construction to prevent heat transfer. However, after decades of using asbestos in construction, researchers learned that exposure to asbestos can have significant health effects. That brings us to today, the year 2021. Is asbestos something that San Fernando Valley homeowners need to be thinking about? Keep reading for our thoughts on the subject. What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a group of minerals that make long, thin fibers, which cannot be seen by the naked eye. These minerals occur naturally in six different forms, mostly in underground rock. Asbestos is a highly durable material that is resistant to heat, fire, and chemical damage. The material works well in insulation because it does not corrode or conduct electricity. For these reasons, asbestos has been used historically in commercial and industrial products. History on Asbestos Usage in the United States Researchers in the United States started recognizing the

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Electric heat pumps

Los Angeles Has Banned New Gas Hookups. What About MightyServ?  

Los Angeles’ City Council has voted to ban natural gas lines as part of a zero-emissions goal for new construction. New York City passed similar legislation in December 2021. In Washington State, dozens of municipalities are voting to ban or limit natural gas hookups. So, what does that mean for residents in MightyServ and the surrounding cities? You may use natural gas for cooking, heating your home, or running gas-powered appliances. Many find it more economical than electric or alternative fuel sources. However, there is currently a movement among major cities to discourage or outright ban the use of new hookups for natural gas. Why? It’s part of a national movement to reduce fossil fuel emissions and institute cleaner energy sources. Looking for Greener Heater Replacement Choices? If you are looking for an eco-friendly heater replacement for your home, reach out to MightyServ to discuss planet-wise HVAC installation alternatives. While authorities in MightyServ haven’t announced any planned changes to local regulations, savvy homeowners are looking for a way to stay ahead of the curve. Climate change experts point to oil and gas furnaces as major contributors to greenhouse gasses. Nearly half of American homes have gas appliances, according to the

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environmental tips

Winter Safety

Surprising as it may sound, residents of Southern California should be mindful of winter safety tips. Although snow and icy conditions are rare in our forecast (never say never!) homeowners should remain vigilant. As the premier service provider of heating services in the San Fernando Valley, our team here at MightyServ takes changes in the weather seriously.  Considerations for California Residents in the Colder Months First, the health and safety of your family is the top priority. A cold home is not just uncomfortable – it can actually cause hypothermia. Also, don’t forget about the comfort of your pets! Some animals and reptiles require warmer temperatures to stay healthy. One other item to consider is electronics and other devices that must be stored in conditioned spaces to keep them working.  Separately, indoor air quality becomes more of a concern in the winter months. Any heat source fueled by natural gas will generate some carbon monoxide; if it does not vent the odorless gas to the outdoor space, it can be dangerous for your family. And don’t forget: the winter months are prime time for the flu season.  Winter Safety Precautions Here are some things you can do to protect your

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5 Ways to Be More Eco-Friendly Without Disrupting your Life

Going “green” is a fantastic way to help the environment, but sometimes the idea of being more eco-friendly can seem a bit daunting. You hear stories of people living off the grid or giving up modern day luxuries in the name of the environment. But, there’s other ways to be more environmentally conscientious without totally disrupting your life. Read on to find out how you can become more eco-friendly without making drastic changes. How to Become More Eco-Friendly No need to collect rain water in basins, compost with earthworms in your kitchen, or only buy organic. We’ve gathered together several smart–and simple–solutions to make your home more environmentally friendly. Schedule your HVAC service today with our incredibly convenient online scheduling tool. Feel free to also call us and speak directly to a friendly representative (818) 348-4768.

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Learn How to Go Green With These 4 Videos

There are many different ways that you can “go green.” From creating a more energy efficient home to using natural products that don’t pollute the environment, there are a variety of ways that you can live more sustainably. Below are some of our favorite YouTube videos on different aspects of going green and reducing your impact on the environment: Energy Efficiency at HomeVolume This video is short and sweet, but it offers a wealth of information for those who want to create a more energy-efficient home and save on their energy bills. In the video, produced by Sustainability Victoria, the narrator provides simple yet effective changes that you can start making today to increase home comfort while also reducing energy costs. This is a must-see for anyone who is not sure how they can make their home more energy efficient. Beginner’s Guide to Minimalism Click here for video This video was created by The Girl Gone Green, a YouTuber named Manuela who aims to educate viewers on sustainability and conscious living. In a Beginner’s Guide to Minimalism, Manuela walks you through what steps you can take to become a minimalist. Even if you are not ready to go completely minimal,

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