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Harvest the Sun and Save with Solar
As energy costs continue to rise, and as the awareness of global climate change continues to grow, homeowners are flocking to solar as a smart alternative to purchasing power from the utility.

You may not be able to do much about the cost of gas at the pump, but you can mitigate your home electrical costs through investment in a solar electric system while also contributing to society's effort to stem global warming. Residential solar is one of the most environmentally- and financially-beneficial home improvements available today. The sun's rays have no operating or maintenance costs, so pre-purchasing the next 25+ years of electricity through a solar installation can be both financially and environmentally sound.

Using solar for all or part of your home's electrical needs makes sense. Grid-tied residential solar systems are less expensive than ever and reduce the amount of electricity you purchase from your local utility. Your residential solar system will produce reliable, clean power to reduce the burning of fossil fuels and contribute to a healthier environment. Solar electric systems are quiet, operate automatically, require very little maintenance and need no fuel except sunshine.

The initial capital investments and subsequent cash flow benefits make a home solar system comparable to other long term, purely-financial investments. The first step towards considering going solar is to request a free Solar Electric Financial Analysis Report. That way your property and needs can be analyzed by the pros at Pacific Blue Solar to determine if solar is right for you. 259-1004

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Perform Full-Service Preventative Maintenance
on your Cooling System Now, Chill Later
Your heating and cooling equipment is most likely the highest energy-using appliance in your home during the hot days of spring and summer. There are ways to help your system run more efficiently during peak-usage periods. Having your comfort system serviced in spring is a wise choice. A professional HVAC service technician can provide the proper inspection of the system to be certain the equipment is running properly. Clogged filters, low refrigerant levels, duct leakage, improper air balance and clogged evaporative coils are some of the reasons a system may not be running efficiently, causing the system to work harder, drawing more energy usage. GW Richardson Heating and Air Conditioning Nate-certified technicians can provide full-system preventive maintenance for a reasonable cost so you can be confident that you'll stay cool - and your bills stay lower - this summer. 295-0115


Three Ways to Boost Efficiency with Screens & Awnings
Select Motorized Screens that Keep Kids in and Bugs Out
Motorized screening with the Phantom Executive Screen is a great way to enjoy cool Santa Clarita nights or to keep the kids corralled while letting the fresh air in.

Open your Doors to Good Things
Let the fresh air in and keep the bugs out. With retractable door screens, there's no need to worry about blocking your view - when they're not in use they disappear out of sight, preserving the look of your doorway. Phantom retractable screens fit all types of doors, including in-swing, out-swing, single, double and slider doors. Signature colors or custom match (Including wood-grain!) are available for a truly distinctive look and mesh options abound for insect protection, shade and privacy. For double French doors, two screens are mounted to each side for the door frame and are pulled to the center of the opening when needed.

Choose Serene Window Screens for Cross Ventilation
Serene window screens are an easy way to get good cross ventilation through the house without obstructing the view with fixed screens. Serene window screens come in all colors and can even look like wood. Try one on a casement window or on a pass-through in the kitchen.
Phantom Screens of Southern California 799-9226

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Spend a Little on Preventative Maintenance or Spend a lot on a New System
Your air-conditioner unit is the largest energy consumer in your home. When your A/C has dirty coils, it doesn't dissipate the heat properly. This makes your air conditioner very inefficient and shortens its life. A preventative maintenance performed by a professional every spring will help your unit perform better and save you on energy costs, not to mention the price of replacing your unit. The professionals at Ricardo's Heating & Air offer spring discounts. See their ad on page 37 of the May 2016 digital edition for details. 299-5898