Efficient Cooling: There's No "I" in Team Greening

The Team Greening Program, created by Major League Baseball and the National Resources Defense Council has been in development for two years. The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is a national non-profit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. It was founded in 1970 and has 1.2 million members and online activists nationwide. This program supports and coordinates the many environmentally sensitive practices now pursued by practically every Major League Baseball Club. A customized guide that includes team specific steps has been given to each team so that they can implement new environmental practices that are right for their circumstances.

Some examples of the new environmental practices are:

-Promoting alternative transportation.
-Supporting renewable energy.
-Offering organic foods.
-Utilizing post-consumer recycled.
-Implementing stronger recycling programs.

During Earth Day 2009, the MLB took a green approach. The Seattle Mariners have celebrated Earth Day for several years because during a September 1969 in Seattle, April 22 was proposed as Earth Day by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. In 2008, there was a Carbon Neutral Day, where the Mariners sought to offset the carbon dioxide pollution generated staging the game. This year, the Mariners introduced the Zero Waste Initiative, in which they strived to reduce to an absolute minimum the amount of garbage going into the waste stream. They will do this by utilizing compost, pairing with Cedar Grove Composting, they will shift to almost all compostable food service items including plates, bowls, utensils, hot dog boats and straws.

To help you be green, here are the NRDC's suggestions specifically regarding cooling efficiently:

Shade Your Windows and the AC Unit: The windows of your house should be shaded with blinds or curtains during warm weather, especially on the south, easy and west sides. This way, the house won't bake while the air conditioning is straining to cool it down. Also, the AC unit itself should be located in a shady spot. A shaded air conditioner can be 10 percent more efficient than one located in the sun.

Use Air Conditioning and Fans Together: Air conditioners are not just replacements for fans. When you place fans around your home, you can raise your thermostat a few degrees to save energy and money, but still remain comfortable. In summer, the breeze of a counter-clockwise fan will make you feel cooler. In the winter, a clockwise fan will efficiently circulate warm air.

Maintain Your Air Conditioner: Maintaining your AC keeps it working effectively and efficiently for many years. The filters should be cleaned every month and the coils should be cleaned once a year. Every two years, be sure to check the refrigerant. If the refrigerant is low, the system isn't performing at peak efficiency.

Buy Energy Star Units: Replacing an older air conditioner with an Energy Star qualified unit is one of the best things you can do regarding cooling efficiently. If everyone in the United States used an Energy Star air conditioner, 1.2 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would be prevented from entering the atmosphere. This is equivalent to emissions from 100,000 cars.

Look for these Features When Purchasing: An adjustable timer on the air conditioner allows you to set the AC so it doesn't cool while the house is empty. A digital thermostat allows you to choose a temperature that makes you feel comfortable. A slide-out filter makes it easy to clean regularly.

Portable Air Conditioning Guide: Environmentality

On Wednesday this week, Earth Day was observed in the United States. This founder of Earth Day was Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin. The very first Earth Day was observed in 1970, and 20 million Americans took to the streets, parks and auditoriums to demonstrate for a healthy, sustainable environment. This lead to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species acts.

Walt Disney World Resort (WDW) is a recreational resort located southwest of Orlando, Florida. It was opened on October 1, 1971 and is the most visited and largest recreational resort in the world. The people at WDW believe in celebrating Earth Day every day. This is a part of their environmentality, which is described by them as an attitude and commitment to do what is right for the environment and right for responsible business. To engrain environmental stewardship into every action and decision of the Cast Members and guests, WDW has increased their efforts through several science-based programs and policies. Their vow is to effectively manage resources through energy management, water conservation and waste minimization. Here are the programs and policies they have implemented:

1. WDW has made their wash loads larger, upgraded their dryers and adapted their water reuse system. This saves 29 million gallons of water a year and 61,000 therms of natural gas.

2. WDW replaced 194,000 of their incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). CFLs use only one quarter of the energy of standard incandescent bulbs. This saves 26 million kilowatt hours a year.

3. WDW converted 430,000 incandescent holiday lights to LEDs which saves 1.1 million kilowatt hours throughout the holiday season.

4. WDW recovers excess heat from the rooftop air conditioning units and uses it to make 85 percent of the hot water used during the summer months. 11,500 therms are saved each year.

5. Every day, WDW uses 6 million gallons of reclaimed water.

6. 25 percent of the total world population of the Micronesian kingfisher was produced by WDW. They are nearly extinct because of predatory snakes introduced to their native land.

7. 17 of the highly endangered Key Largo woodrat species was bred by WDW.

8. 150,000 reusable bags were purchased by WDW guests, which raised $50,000 for the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. This fund can provide emergency funding to about 10 wildlife projects.

9. The WDW kitchens gathered and distributed 700,000 lbs of excess prepared food.

10. 77,000 tons of materials were recycled by the WDW in 2008 along with 31,000 of asphalt that was crushed and reused to pave roadways.

Buying Guide: Dehumidifiers

The amount of moisture or water vapor in the air is called humidity. Humidity can be added to the air when people or pets breathe and perspire, by indoor plants, and through routine household tasks like cooking, showering, bathing, doing laundry and dishwashing. Too much humidity in your home can cause a host of difficulties. For example, excess moisture in the air can cause condensation on windows, wet stains on walls and ceilings, moldy bathrooms, musty smells and allergic reactions. More long term effects include damage to the house and its contents, ongoing allergies and other health problems. The perfect solution to excess household moisture is to purchase a quality dehumidifier. They are household appliances that help reduce the humidity levels in the air.

For very small spaces, desiccant or passive dehumidifiers can be used. For larger areas, mechanical dehumidifiers are more common and more efficient. Mechanical dehumidifiers are dehumidifiers that use compressors. They are very similar to air conditioners, except that they contain hot and cold coils in the same box. To condense the moisture, a fan draws air over the cold coil and the moisture is collected into a bucket. To heat the air back to its original temperature, the dry air will pass through the hot coil. The temperature on the air is slightly raised by mechanical compressor dehumidifiers.

There are also dehumidifiers with thermo-electric peltiers. These mechanical dehumidifiers pass an electric current through two dissimilar metals that transfer heat and cause the same effect that is used by mechanical compressor dehumidifiers. These units operate extremely quietly because there are no moving parts and the only noise emitted is from the fan that circulates the air. Thermo-electric peltier dehumidifiers are very effective for smaller areas because although they are not as energy efficient as units with compressors, they provide nearly silent operation. Here are the features to look for when purchasing a dehumidifier:

Portability: This is an important feature if you need to dehumidify more than one room. Look for a unit that has a compact body complete with a carrying handles and rolling casters.

Built-in Humidistat: This feature allows you to set your desired humidity on your unit. After you set your desired humidity level, the dehumidifier will cycle on an off until it reaches that moisture percentage.

Automatic Shut-Off: Finding a unit with this feature is important is you want your dehumidifier to turn off by itself when the storage tank is full to prevent overflowing. The NewAir AD-40A Dehumidifier shuts off when the tank is full and will not run until the tank is emptied and replaced.

Automatic Defrost: Sometimes frost may build up on the coils of your dehumidifier. Automatic defrost stops the operation of the unit and runs the fan until the coils have defrosted. This prevents frost from accumulating on the sensor and prevents quick cycling.

Storage Tank Capacity: Note the storage tank capacity whenever you are purchasing a dehumidifier. You should purchase a dehumidifier with a tank that is an appropriate size for the area that needs to be dehumidified.

Continuous Drainage Port: A continuous drainage port is very convenient because your dehumidifier can run continuously and the water is constantly being drained. If you purchase a dehumidifier without one, the tank will need to be emptied regularly.

Indicator Lights: Indicator lights are important because they alert you when something happens that might affect the way your dehumidifier operates. The NewAir ADS-600 Mini Dehumidifier has a red indicator light that indicates when the tank is full. There are also indicator lights on some units that tell you when the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.

Built-in Air Purification: If you need to remove excess moisture but also impurities from the air, look for a dehumidifier with this feature. The NewAir ADS-500 Mini Dehumidifier eliminates allergens with a built-in ionizer and absorbs odors with the activated carbon filter.

Electric Space Heaters: What Are the Different Types?

Electric space heaters are popular when it comes to heating options for your home because they are cost-effective and easily maintained. Most space heaters use electricity to provide warmth because it is available everywhere. Electric space heaters also do not emit any pollutants, are often required to pass rigid safety tests and do not require you to store any fuel.

A specific type of electric space heater is a convection space heater, like the Dayton NW9 Electric Ceramic Convection Space Heater. Convection heaters are especially useful for providing background warmth in a closed space because they are relatively silent and have a low risk of fire hazard. How they work is that they warm the air near the element or body of the heater by using air convection currents to generate heat. The currents then circulate through the appliance and across the heating element. Cool air is denser than hot air, which means hot air rises and allows cool air to take its place.

There are different types of convection heaters. Oil filled radiator heaters, like the NewAir AH-450 Electric Oil Filled Radiator Space Heater, are perfect for personal spaces like underneath desks and in offices because they have low surface temperatures which makes them safe. Their operation is silent as well because they don't use fans to spread warmth. The heating element heats the oil in the body of the heater and then the heat is transferred to the living space by natural convection via the air. The oil never needs to be replaced and is never burned. The residual heat in the oil and the body continues to heat the air even after the heating element has been deactivated. This characteristic helps oil filled radiators maintain a more consistent temperature over time.

Convection heaters can be fan forced as well, like the Dayton U37 Electric Convection Heater. A fan is used to pass air over a heating element in order to speed up the airflow. The air is heated by the heating element then leaves the heater to warm the surrounding air. The heat will spread rapidly but the fan will make noise. They work well in areas where installing other types of heating devices would be impractical and where sound is not a concern. Fan-forced convection heaters should not be left unattended.

An infrared or radiant heater is another type of electric space heater. Thermal energy is transferred via electromagnetic waves with these heaters. Heat is emitted or radiated from the heated object or substance and only objects are warmed as opposed to entire areas. Infrared heaters, like the NewAir AH-350E Electric Reflective Space Heater, heat you and not the entire room so they save you money. The heat penetrates your skin, warms you from beneath your skin and radiates outward. A portion of the heat reflects off of your skin so even people next to you will be heated. Infrared space heaters use less energy than other space heaters and operate silently so your home environment will not be disturbed. Also, there is no stuffy feeling created because heat is distributed evenly and no air is being pushed around.

Electric Fan Guide: Vornado Air Circulators

Vornado has been an industry leader since the late 1940s as a part of the O.A. Sutton Company. Back then, one out of every three fans sold in the United States was a Vornado. The headquarters in Kansas is where the design, engineering and manufacturing functions are performed. The headquarters is also home to the Antique Fan Collector's Museum which features the most comprehensive collection of air moving devices in the world. The innovative design and superb performance cultivated by Vornado makes these air circulators the consumer's choice when it comes to electric fans.

Typical household portable fans lack the aerodynamics that adequately circulates air most of the time. This can result in drafts or dead spots as air is circulated unevenly through a room. Air can't be moved long distances without making a lot of noise and cannot be used for a variety of applications.

With patented vortex action, Vornado air circulators such as the Vornado 530B Compact Air Circulator eliminate drafts and dead spots because the air bends and twists. Even temperature and circulation is provided throughout the room or area. The superior construction of Vornado air circulators elevates the level of cooling provided. Large bites of air are taken by the deep pitched blades and are accelerated through its circulator. The air is kept from slipping off the blade and is directed forward by the duct around the blade. An AirTensity Grill is also included and acts as a flow-straightener and focuses the outward stream of air into a tight vortex.

Whole Room Circulation, which is created by the superior construction elements and the Vornado vortex action, means all of the air in the room is exited in one steady motion to create continuous air movement in every part of the room. The way the air is moved creates additional comfort and even temperature.

Vornado air circulators are also extremely energy efficient. Energy is conserved all year round because Vornado air circulators can be used with existing heating and cooling systems. Your thermostat can be turned up during the summer and down during the winter and you'll still feel the same amount of thermal comfort. For example, in the summer you can set your thermostat at 77 degrees Fahrenheit, use your Vornado with your existing air conditioner and feel the same amount of comfort as when your thermostat is set at 72 degrees Fahrenheit without the assistance of a Vornado air circulator. A five degree increase on your thermostat can save you as much as 10 percent on your energy bill. Also, to prevent wasted heat in the winter, you can use the Vornado to force hot air off the ceiling and mix it with cooler air near the floor to produce an even distribution of heat through the entire room.

The motors on Vornado air circulators are permanently lubricated so that no oiling is required. The only maintenance required is periodical cleaning of motor cap, grill and blades. Simply wash the parts with a mild detergent and wipe them down with a soft cloth. These Vornado air circulators are available in a range of sizes as well so that everyone's needs are met. If you need a compact unit or an industrial-sized one, there is a Vornado air circulator that is made with your requirements in mind.

Electric Fans: Reasons to Purchase

In the 1500s, mechanical fans made their first appearance as canvas covered frames called "punkahs" that were suspended from the ceiling. There were ropes connected to the frame that servants pulled, making the fan move back and forth to create a cooling effect. During the 1800s, belt driven fans powered by factory waterwheels were produced. After electric power was introduced, electric fans were available to the general public. The fans were functional and stylish, equipped with brass blades and cages so that they enhanced a home's decor. When the 1920s arrived, mass production of modern electric fans was made possible by industrialization. When air conditioning was made widely available during the 1960s, fan sales slowed downed. Presently, fan popularity has resurged and they are still commonly used in many parts of Europe and Asia. Currently, fans feature a more utilitarian design and are not used to enhance home decor as much. Electric fans are more energy efficient than refrigerated cooling provided by air conditioners, and are often used as supplemental cooling devices or for spot cooling. Electric fans can also be used to add ventilation, exhaust or any type of gaseous transport.

Axial, centrifugal and cross flow are the three main types of fan technologies used for air movement. Axial flow is the method that fans used for climate control utilize to provide comfort or ventilation. The blades force air to move parallel to the shaft while the blades rotate around it and blow across the axis of the fan. Personal cooling in personal desk fans and giant fans commonly found in wind tunnels are a couple of the applications that use axial flow. The common main components of an electric fan include the base, fan blade, armature and lead wires, motor, blade guard, motor housing, oscillator gearbox and oscillator shaft. The types, size and number of blades determine the rating of electric fans. The price is determined by the materials from which the fan's components are made. Four blade fans are the most common. Fans do not actually lower the temperature to provide comfort. Instead, a wind chill effect is created.

There are many different kinds of fans made in a wide range of designs. There are fans that can be put on the floor or table, hung from the ceiling, or built into windows, walls, roofs or chimneys. Electric fans are used in hair dryers and space heaters and in electronic systems like computers to cool the circuits inside.

The most popular electric fans are:

Portable Electric Fans- These electric fans are fully portable and can be moved from one room to the next. Many different kinds of fans can fit into this category, such as floor fans, pedestal fans and many types of industrial fans.

Ceiling Fans- These electric fans help cool rooms and complement decor. They employ hub-mounted, rotating paddles constructed of a number of different materials to produce a cooling effect and are suspended from the ceiling of a room. Air is blown or drawn in to create a draft which produces a chill effect. You can air out or freshen a room, lower your household's electric bill, increase the cooling effects of a portable air conditioner or central air conditioner, and increase the efficiency of your heating system when used in reverse during winter.

Exhaust Fans- These fans are mostly used to cool and provide ventilation. Some exhaust fans are installed in a window. These window fans can be used as alternatives to air conditioning. They usually have a 20 inch diameter and require a mounting kit and side panels. Exhaust fans can also be used in attics because they expel the moisture and heat that accumulates before it damages and deteriorate insulation and construction materials.

Industrial Fans- To ensure the health and safety of employees and customers, industrial and commercial settings require proper ventilation and climate and odor control. These settings are usually subject to high heat levels so high volume, low speed industrial fans are crucial when the space cannot accommodate traditional air conditioning systems. These electric fans promote fresh air and circulation so they can regulate odors and gaseous fumes and industrial blowers are particularly useful for cooling or drying applications.

Bathroom Exhaust Fans- These electric fans deal with offensive odors and humidity levels, making them vital components of your home. Excess moisture in bathrooms can lead to paint damage, warping doors, and the eventual accumulation of mold spores. Bathroom exhaust fans can come with built-in heater, lights and timer units. They are designed to be mounted on the ceiling or onto the wall.

Cool Mist Humidifiers: The Benefits

A lack of humidity in your home can cause warping of furniture and wood floors, sinus problems, nose bleeds, dry skin and cracked lips and paint peeling and cracks. Also, some bacteria and viruses spread faster in dryer air.

Humidifiers add humidity to the air which keeps mucous membranes moist and allow the tiny hair in the nose and throat to work to expel particles that were suspended in the air which reduces the possibility of winter infection. Keeping your home at a 35-45 percent humidity level relieves the pain of dry aching sinuses, the intensity and noise level of snoring, cold symptoms and chapped lips. It also prevents dry, itchy skin, reduces static electricity shocks and protects wood furniture, floors and musical instruments from cracking and warping.

Cool mist humidifiers are a specific type of humidifier that produces humidity by blowing air over or through a wick in water and disperses mist vapor at room temperature. Since the vapor from cool mist humidifiers is not heated, there is no risk of burning users should there be a spill or he/she gets too close. If you need to use a humidifier all year-round, a cool mist humidifier is the best choice because using it does not raise the room temperature and steam isn't emitted. It is a good choice for dry but warm climates and uses less energy.

A great cool mist humidifier is the Eva-Mist EDV2500i Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. It humidifies rooms up to 250-300 square feet. It is almost silent in its operation and the water tank is easy to change and clean. Included with this exceptional humidifier is an adjustable humidistat that allows you to set your desired humidity level. It also has an ionizer to promote cleaner air, and automatic shut-off feature for when the water tank is empty, and Smart Technology that automatically adjusts the unit depending on the conditions of the room.

There are some common issues associated with humidifiers. Most of them are related to improper usage and lack of regular cleaning. White dust happens through the dispersion of minerals from the water vapor and very fine lung penetrating particles. It can cause respiratory problems. Bacteria and fungi can grow in the tank of the humidifier if it is not properly cleaned or there isn't any preventative technology built-in. Exposure to bacteria and fungi can cause flu-like symptoms and respiratory diseases like legionnaires disease or pneumonitis.

Humidifiers should always be elevated off of the floor and the vapor should be directed upwards. Carpeting, windows or wood floors shouldn't be allowed to get wet because this can cause mold growth and warping. Use a hygrometer to monitor the interior humidity if the humidifier you purchased does no have one built-in. If the humidity reaches a level above 50 percent, turn down the humidifier to decrease the water vapor. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's directions for cleaning. Most times this includes putting all of the parts into a dishwasher once a week. Also, you should rinse and dry the humidifier's water tank each time the humidifier is refilled. Clean any visible scaling or any other impurities with white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide when necessary. To prevent scaling or impurities it is best to use distilled water with cool mist humidifiers, especially if you have well water and live in a rural area.