The Handyguys cover two topics in this show. We discuss fraud, abuse and lack of accountability with the U.S. government’s Energy Star program and then discuss basement egress requirements.

Energy Star Fail

The EPA has objected to our use of the word FAIL over their logo so we have censored it to avoid any confusion. The red censored artwork By Piotr VaGla Waglowski, http://www.vagla.pl (Own work) (Public domain), via Wikimedia Commons

The better method for energy usage verification is to check the particular device for actual electrical usage. This is expressed in WATTS on a label or in the documentation. The lower the number, the less electricity the appliance consumes. The same method can be used for water usage. Items like dishwashers are measured in gallons per cycle or estimated gallons per year. Try and do your own apples to apples comparisons using the documented information instead of looking for a government sticker.

Unfortunately, the Handyguys have not had much success with these supposedly more efficient appliances. We ranted about appliances a while back in Episode #79. Well, we got started again in this podcast. Washing machines that hardly use any water just don’t get clothes as clean, dishwashers that use less water leave gunk on dishes.

You can read the GAO report here

and you can read the DOE/EPA response to the report here

The government is working to fix the administration of the Energy Star program by spending more taxpayer money. “EPA and DOE have launched a new two-step process to expand testing of ENERGY STAR qualified products…the steps are part of an overall effort by the Obama Administration” (paraphrased from Energy Star site).

Basement Egress

Bilco Doors being installed in new construction

The Handyguys set aside a few minutes to discuss basement Egress requirements and options.

If you are finishing your basement, be sure to check your local code requirements. A secondary means of exit from your finished basement space is a typical requirement. A basement bedroom also requires a direct secondary egress. Small windows wont cut it. Instead a window or door must be large enough for a person to exit easily and for fireman with an air pack can enter. Again, please check your local code requirements for egress.

Egress options range from large windows to walk out french doors for daylight basements. Brian and Paul discuss the pros and cons of the various egress options including the bilco Doors you see in the image. When planning your finished basement, be sure to plan and budget for proper egress.

The Handyguys go to the top dog to discuss home inspection!

The Handyguys interview Brion Grant, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) , the oldest home inspection organization in North America.  Brion Grant explains the importance of hiring  the right home inspector; one you can trust and rely on.

Handyguys Brian and Paul know all about home inspectors as they have utilized these experts when purchasing  older and newer homes in the past.  But how can you be sure that the home inspector you hire is knowledgeable and capable of helping you with the biggest purchase you will ever make?  Brion Grant explains that ASHI home inspectors have not only the knowledge to do the job but the experience.  In addition to passing certification tests, ASHI inspectors must have performed at least 250 inspections.  They have seen a lot and can identify the poorly built deck or dangerous wiring on that new house you are about to purchase.

But don’t just rely on ASHI certification to find your inspector. Like any other contractor, you should ask around and get references before hiring an inspector.  Listen in and find out about home inspectors on this week’s podcast.