HVAC System Ready

20 Austin South Asian | September 2021 Is Your HVAC System Ready For Cool Weather?

As you enjoy mild autumn weather, take time to ensure your home is equipped to handle the chilly months ahead. ment work harder and cause more wear and tear on your system. They also increase your energy bill and reduce indoor air quality.

Following these steps will mean a more comfortable, energy-efficient winter: • Compare the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of your heating system with newer models. If it’s be-

• Clean your air filters monthly. Dirty filters make HVAC equiplow 13, you may want to consider a new, more efficient system. Remember, the higher the rating, the less wasted energy for a reduced carbon footprint.

Be sure to choose equipment bearing the ENERGY STAR logo. High-efficiency systems reduce your impact on the environment and can also save you money. You may also be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit if you select a qualifying model.

• Use a humidifier during colder months. It not only adds moisture to your home, it can actually make it feel warmer. In turn, you’ll be more apt to lower your thermostat, saving money and consuming less energy.

• Check and maintain your insulation. Improperly insulated walls, floors, attics, basements and crawlspaces drain away heat and can also lead to moisture imbalance.

Adding weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors can also go a long way to improving your home’s insulation.

• Turn down your thermostat. Keeping your thermostat five degrees cooler can lower your heating bills without affecting your home’s comfort. Install a programmable thermostat to regulate temperatures.

• Clean the furnace area. Don’t keep chemicals or cleaning products near your heater, and don’t store anything next to it that could impede ventilation. Keep vents and returns free of obstructions. Don’t lay carpet over vents, place furniture over or in front of them, or obstruct the flow of air.

• Have a technician give your HVAC system a pre-season tuneup so that everything is running efficiently before temperatures plummet. Even the most efficient system can suffer if it’s not properly maintained.

Just be sure your HVAC equipment is installed and serviced by a North American Technician Excellence (NATE)-certified HVAC technician, as they have demonstrated their knowledge of today’s increasingly sophisticated heating and cooling systems by passing a nationally recognized test developed and supported by all segments of the industry.

Working with a NATE-certified technician translates to a longer life for your HVAC equipment, increased energy efficiency and fewer callbacks and warranty returns.

To find a NATE-certified contractor in your area and for more HVAC tips and insights, visit https://www. natex.org.With a few simple considerations in fall, you can reduce your home energy bill and improve your home’s comfort all winter. (StatePoint)

6 Budget-Friendly Tips To Create A Cozy Outdoor Oasis

With life returning to normal and summer upon us, it’s a good time to focus on creating an outdoor space to enjoy on warm summer evenings.

Whether it’s a place for unplugging and relaxing alone or gathering with guests and entertaining, having a spot that you can enjoy well into the fall is key.

Below are six tips for turning an average patio, porch or deck into an outdoor oasis.

1. Whether you use your outdoor space for reading a book on a summer day or catching up with friends on a warm night, incorporating plants into this area can create a barrier for privacy.

Plant bushes, place large planters in corners or put hanging baskets on hooks around the perimeter. For small patios, you may even consider building a planter wall. mension, making the space feel like a sanctuary for you and your guests.

2. Add string lights overhead to create ambiance in your space at night.

Duck Max Strength Nano-Grab is a versatile double-sided tape you can use for mounting. per 5-foot roll and sticks to painted drywall, wood, glass, tile, metal, stone and brick without leaving a

residue. Nano-Grab will keep your lights secure and in place and make it easy to take them down and store for winter.

3. If you are sticking with the rest and relaxation vibe in your outdoor oasis, think about adding a fountain or other small water feature for relaxing background noise.

Keep that sense of zen going into the night with a fire pit, heaters or bamboo torches for warmth on cooler evenings.

4. For those interested in entertaining guests, you may want to mount an outdoor TV for watching summer ball games or a sound system for listening to background music.

You’ll want to ensure this equipment is properly installed for outdoor use in areas safe from wind and rain.

5. Creating an outdoor dining area doesn’t have to break the bank. When entertaining guests, a beverage cooler, bar cart and BBQ station are convenient additions you can make to what already exists on your patio. Building a cart or station for storing paper towels, tin foil and other essentials for the grill master can be a fun DIY project, too.

6. Having an amazing space doesn’t always mean starting from scratch – you can simply add a fresh coat of paint in a bright color palette to update existing privacy walls or tables and chairs.

All you need is a can of paint and a roll of FrogTape brand painter’s tape to keep lines crisp and clean.

As for color, you may be tempted to keep it neutral, but don’t shy away from crisp blues and soft yellows. They will give a fresh and fun feel for all your summer entertaining.

For additional tips and uses for Nano-Grab, visit duckbrand.com.

With just a few simple tweaks, you can transform any outdoor area into a beautiful oasis ideal for rest, relaxation and fun. (StatePoint)

21 Austin South Asian | September 2021 Reduce Your Energy Bills This Fall With These Tips

The updates you make in fall can prepare your home for the long winter months ahead, helping you stay more comfortable all season while reducing your energy bills and other expenditures. Here are some home improvements to consider, as well as tips and insights for making the most of these upgrades:

• Select insulated siding: Did you know that most wall insulation is placed only between the studs? Since wall studs represent up to 25% of the wall surface of an average home, that’s like having one side of your home with no insulation at all! Check out siding that provides continuous insulation, such as CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding from ProVia, which is not only one of the most energyefficient exterior claddings on the market, but offers enhanced curb appeal and durability.

• Improve windows and sliding glass doors: New windows can make a substantial impact on your overall energy efficiency, if you select wisely. To identify the most energy-efficient windows for your home, refer to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) climate zone map, which divides the country into four regions. For each region, the agency provides recommended values for the two major characteristics that affect the energy efficiency of vinyl windows: the U-Factor (which measures the window’s insulating value) and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (which represents the amount of heat from the sun that passes through the glass). Learn the specs of any windows you’re interested in before making a purchase to ensure they’re a good fit for your region.

Wherever you live, make sure the windows and sliding patio doors have been independently tested to meet strict EPA energy efficiency standards, and check to see that the windows are ENERGY STAR Certified. The ecoLite, Aspect, Endure and Aeris lines from ProVia all offer comfort and energy efficiency, as well as optional upgrades that can help make an additional dent in your energy bill or add aesthetic appeal. Some lines come standard with ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing, a high-tech glass package that measurably improves thermal performance for less heat loss, warmer glass temperatures and reduced interior condensation. Finally, be sure any new products are delivering their full value with a proper installation that eliminates drafts.

• Seek further savings: Did you know that by installing energy efficient products, you may be eligible to receive an energy tax credit? When purchasing products for your home, consider shopping with companies that are clear about the status of their products, as well as provide needed documentation certifying your eligibility.

• Pass it on: Environmental stewardship is a valuable lesson to impart to the next generation. While you make energy-saving updates to your home, consider checking out free resources that can help your children understand why this matters. For example, the “Sammy the Star” ENERGY STAR Educational Program, found at provia.com/ energy-star, teaches children about the importance of saving energy.

Energy savings and environmental protection go hand-in-hand. This fall, consider home upgrades that prioritize both. (Statepoint)

Looking To Retire Early? Ask Yourself These 4 Questions First

The pandemic has changed our lives in numerous ways. As a result of all the upheaval, many people are reassessing their priorities and thinking about early retirement.

According to Pew Research, 28 million baby boomers retired in 2020 and a recent study found 39% plan to retire by 65, while 18% said they plan to retire by age 59. Before taking that step, here are four questions to ask yourself.

1. Can I afford to stop working? Look at your retirement savings, your life expectancy, your projected income and annual expenditures in retirement. You’ll want to consider unforeseen circumstances down the line that could be costly, such as the need to reside in a nursing home.

Use the free retirement calculator and resources available at fidelity. com to help you make a realistic determination as to whether you can afford to retire now, or whether you need to keep earning your fulltime salary for a few more years. and grandchildren and have significant debt. According to the National Council on Aging, the me-

2. Do I need life insurance after retirement? There is no one-size-fitsall answer here. However, those carrying debt into retirement, such as mortgages and personal loans, should consider a life insurance plan. Today, many baby boomers are financially supporting children dian consumer debt for households headed by someone aged 65 or older is 4.5 times higher now than in 1989. Paying off a mortgage is one of the most common reasons to purchase a life insurance policy. Doing so can help ensure your family is able to enjoy the home they love without the burden of outstanding payments.

“You would do anything to ensure your family has a bright future and having insurance is a simple and affordable way to protect them,” says Louis Colaizzo, senior vice president of Erie Family Life. “Life insurance can help loved ones maintain the standard of living they are accustomed to.”

So, how much would you need to leave behind? Calculate your needs with the life insurance calculator available at erieinsurance. com/life-insurance or contact an independent Erie Insurance agent to discuss options.

3. How will I get health insurance? The current Medicare eligibility age for most people is 65, so if you plan retire before then, you’ll need to find another way to get health insurance. Even after you’re covered by Medicare, health care expenses can add up, especially if you’re on a fixed retirement income. Some insurance companies, including Erie Insurance, offer Medicare supplemental insurance to help pay the portion of expenses not covered by Medicare.

4. How will I spend my time? Retirement can come with ample newfound free time you may not be accustomed to. While that can sound amazing to those working full-time, the transition can be jarring.

Whether it’s volunteering, taking up new creative hobbies or traveling, planning now for how you will spend your time is a good idea to stave off boredom.

As you consider when to stop working, first ask yourself these four questions so you can take the appropriate steps to help ensure your retirement reality matches your retirement dreams. (StatePoint)

22 Austin South Asian | September 2021

THEME: EMMY AWARDS

ACROSS 1. *Emmy Awards attendees or celestial bodies 6. “He ____ and drank the precious words...” 9. Skier’s transport 13. Move like ivy 14. What Alex and Lexington have in common 15. Power glitch 16. White condiment 17. Schiller’s “____ to Joy” 18. Movie “The ____ of the Chicago 7” 19. *”Last Week ____ with John Oliver” 21. *”Lovecraft ____” 23. Excessively 24. Invitation request 25. Part of graduate’s ensemble 28. South American indigenous people 30. Lung pouch (2 words) 35. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s target 37. Stain on Santa 39. Take exception to 40. Highland tongue 41. Bar, legally 43. Tropical tuber 44. Time on the job 46. Grey tea 47. Make a picture 48. Satellite Navigation System, for short 50. Mr. Eugene Krabs, e.g. 52. X 53. *Compilation of nominees, e.g. 55. Uh-huh 57. *”Swingers” actor turned “The Mandalorian” director 61. *Ewan McGregor’s role 65. Soviet entity 66. Flightless bird 68. Princess of #34 Down 69. Type of weasel 70. Lady or Tramp, e.g. 71. Improvise 72. Young herring 73. Printing unit, pl. 74. ‘90s TV sitcom “Boy ____ World” DOWN 1. Sing like Ella Fitzgerald 2. Jack, Janet and Chrissy from “Three’s Company,” e.g. 3. Long time 4. Rekindled 5. Faucet 6. Loads (2 words) 7. *Jason Sudeikis’ role 8. Golden parachute recipients 9. U, on the road 10. One from Great Britain 11. Culture-growing turf 12. Bank on 15. Like an ignoramus 20. *Hugh Laurie’s medical drama, nominated 25 times, that ended in 2012 22. Egg cells 24. Great Britain’s anti-mob law (2 words) 25. *”The Queen’s Gambit” game 26. Blood carrier 27. Suggest 29. *Drag ball culture drama 31. Retired, shortened 32. *”Get ____,” Outstanding Comedy Series winer in 1968 and 69 33. Saintly glows 34. *Royalty chronicles, with The 36. Philadelphia’s Ivy 38. Millimeter of mercury 42. “Vamos a la ____” 45. *What one needs to be nominated 49. Itinerary word 51. Old crone 54. Like Elvis’s famous shoes 56. Digression 57. Much ado 58. Against, prefix 59. Violin’s Renaissance predecessor 60. One less traveled 61. Os in XOXO 62. *The Handmaid’s “story” 63. ____ top of ____ 64. Captures 67. *Allison Janney’s show

Sudoku

Please email your sudoku answers to info@austinsouthasian.com. Name and photo of the inviduvidual with first correct answer will be published in October 2021 issue.

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