Recent content by DC73

In it to try and win it!

One thing to keep in mind is that by going with two meters, you'll generally have two base charges. If you go the 2nd option with just one meter, you'll save the second base charge. Might double check with the power company as to their rates and how they work. Some PoCos will "add...

In!

Very nice. What software are you using to produce the design files?

Search for "online manual J calculation" or "HVAC load calculator". You'll find several sites where you can enter dimensions and such about your space and it will calculate the cooling load. You may have to search through multiple sites to find one that will calculate heating needs as most are...

Thanks for all your comments. I fully understand about features being removed from free software. I don't like the cloud based version of Sketchup and I use the last version I can install locally on my PC (Sketchup Make 2017). Just recently I discovered this version still "phones home" every...

Thanks much Ryan, I'm a PC guy so I'll need to find something to use with Windows 10. Too bad Sketchup isn't viable as I'm pretty good with it already. I hope to get into 3D printing later this year after I tackle a couple of major projects. I'll be following this thread. DC

Gee, why didn't I think of that? I actually prefer to pick the collective brains of the helpful and knowledgeable members of Garage Journal. You are obviously neither one of those.

Been thinking about joining the 3D printing club but haven't found the time to do any proper research. What software are you guys using for design? Do the printers come with software? Would Sketchup work? I'm very familiar with, and frequently use, the older version known as Sketchup Make...

Not 7 times normal rates. 7 times off peak rates which are much less than normal rates. Around here, Xcel is not forcing anyone onto TOU rates. It's a choice for now.

Yes, the ground would have helped. First step is to make sure all of your grounds are in good shape with tight connections. If you happen to have multiple grounding points that are not connected directly, it could also cause problems. For example, say you had a detached garage with a...

The interior of the top compartment and especially the drawer locking bars, looks exactly like an older Craftsman chest (35+ years) I have but my chest has a different drawer look and appears to be more modern. DC

You could research HRVs (heat recovery ventilators) and ERVs (energy recovery ventilators). Probably the priciest option but I'd bet someone makes something that would work for your needs. The simplest option would be an exhaust ventilation system whereby you used something akin to a bathroom...

I use a MERV 11 or 12 in my systems depending on which is more readily available. I get good house dust control with this level of filtration and my old system handles them very well. However, I tried MERV 13 once and didn't like the sounds my unit made. It seems this level of filtration is a...

Don't forget to consider the cost of metering if you are going to need a second meter for the barn with the PoCo option. If you have multiple meters, there is often a monthly base charge for each meter. You could eliminate multiple monthly base charges by having only one meter if that option...