Tips

USDA Economic Research Service Backup Generator Safety
A portable generator can help keep your household running during an extended power outage, but be sure to follow these tips to use generators safely.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper connection and use.
  • Never use a portable generator indoors; place it outdoors in a dry area far away from doors, windows and vents.
  • Have a qualified electrician install a transfer switch to break the path of electricity between the power lines and your main electrical panel. This is the best way to protect you, your neighbors, and repair crews from "back feed". Back feed occurs when an improperly connected generator begins feeding electricity "back" through the power lines.
  • Never plug a portable electric generator into a wall outlet or connect directly to a home's wiring.
Seasonal Tips Plumbing Tips

As you know, central air conditioning provides great summertime comfort for your entire home. However the cost of electricity can make you uncomfortable when you receive your utility bill.

At Tarter Brothers we know how important it is to cool your home or business establishment as efficiently as possible. Here are some tips to follow to help you control your energy costs this summer:

  • Clear overgrown shrubs and high grass/weeds from around the outside condensing unit so they don't interfere with proper air circulation.
  • Set your thermostat at the highest comfort level. Each degree you raise the thermostat reduces cooling energy consumption up to 3%.
  • Keep your window coverings drawn on the sunny side of the house to keep out the sun's intense rays. Be sure doors and windows are kept closed when the air conditioner is on
  • Change your filters frequently. We recommend changing filters every 30 days to insure good performance from your system.
  • Call Tarter Brothers (217-735-4117), your cooling professional to inspect and service your unit to keep it running efficiently.

If your unit is not cooling:
  • Check fuses or breakers
  • Make certain the thermostat is properly set
  • Check to be sure the filter isn't plugged

If everything is running, but not cooling you may be low on Freon or you may need a part replaced. Call you Tarter Brothers professionals and let us service your unit.		 Hot tap water can scald. Every year thousands of people are admitted to emergency rooms with hot water scalds. For safety install "scald guard" faucets in your bathroom. First degree burns develop within only 12 seconds in 130 degree F water, versus 130 seconds in 120 degree F water.

For safety keep your hot water heater set no higher than 120 degree F. If you always seem to run out of hot water for showers and laundry, consider buying a 50 gallon water heater. A 50 gallon water heater set at 120 degrees F is far more safe that a 40 gallon unit set at 140 degrees F.
Water Conservation Tips Safety Reminders
Did you know that you can save:

  • 3 gallons by turning the water off each time you brush your teeth
  • 7 gallons a day by fixing a leaky faucet right away
  • 75-200 gallons per week by running only full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher
  • 20-25 gallons by taking a shower instead of a bath
  • 200-300 gallons per month by keeping a bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking in order to not have to run the tap until the water gets cold enough to drink
  • 1000 gallons a month by installing a flow restrictor in a shower (will cut water use by as much as two-thirds)
  • 1500-2000 gallons a day by fixing a pinhead-sized hole (with 60 lbs. of pressure) right away

Do not use or store flammable products such as gasoline, solvents or adhesives in the same room or area near any gas fired appliance. Gasoline and other flammables can be dangerous if not used safely.

Water temperature over 125 degrees can cause severe burns instantly from scalds. Always feel water before bathing or showering.

Never leave children or the elderly unattended in the bath or shower.