Back to Basics

Manual J, Manual S, and Manual D: What’s The Difference?

By |2025-01-30T10:44:10-07:00January 12th, 2023|Back to Basics, HVAC, Mechanical Design|

In this day and age, energy efficiency protocol is an integral part of the construction process. When it comes to newly built homes, everything from the building envelope to the HVAC must adhere to regulations established by the IECC. As an energy services company we are well-versed in all the aspects related to energy [...]

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HRV and ERV Systems: What You Should Know

By |2025-01-10T12:22:57-07:00December 8th, 2022|Back to Basics, HVAC|

If you own a newer home, it is likely equipped with an HRV or an ERV system. That is because these systems are crucial in maintaining in-home air quality. Nowadays, homes are built to meet high energy efficiency standards. They are constructed in an airtight manner, in order to keep conditioned air from leaking [...]

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Damaged Thermal Seals: Why Your Windows Are Cloudy

By |2025-01-30T10:10:12-07:00November 9th, 2022|Back to Basics|

We've all been there. Your window looks a little cloudy, so you grab a cloth and give it a wipe down. But despite the wiping, the cloudiness remains. So you open the window and give it a wipe on the other side - still no luck. What's going on? The fact is that this [...]

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Combustion Closet Rules for Rental License Inspections

By |2025-01-15T16:22:25-07:00October 27th, 2022|Back to Basics, Boulder Rental License, Denver Rental License, HVAC, Rental Property Inspection|

Furnaces and water heaters are key elements in any Colorado home. However, being that they are combustion appliances, they can pose safety and health hazards if not configured properly. One of the most common practices in the residential setting is to have these appliances installed in a combustion closet. When it comes to Denver [...]

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Lawn Sprinkler Winterization

By |2025-01-30T11:28:32-07:00October 5th, 2022|Back to Basics|

Fall is finally here! For Coloradans, that means leaves changing colors, corn mazes, football games, seasonal pies and more. It also means that that cold CO weather is on its way back. As homeowners, it is important to be prepared and protect your property from the often times harsh weather. For those who own [...]

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Hail Damage in Colorado

By |2025-01-14T13:50:39-07:00August 4th, 2022|Back to Basics, Roofing|

If you've lived in Colorado for at least a year, then you've likely experienced one of its infamous hail storms. Every year, Colorado residents brace themselves for these annual storms and the potential hail damage that comes along with them. Hail is not only dangerous, but it can be extremely costly when it occurs. [...]

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The Dangers of Lead-Based Paint in Homes

By |2025-01-15T08:32:11-07:00July 20th, 2022|Back to Basics, Denver Rental License, Lead|

It is no secret that lead is toxic. Over the years, authorities have made efforts to increase awareness about lead poisoning, end production and consumer use of lead products, and remove the substance from communities. But the truth is, it is virtually impossible to completely eliminate lead hazards from all American communities. Because, for [...]

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How Do Whole House Fans Work? The Pros and Cons

By |2025-01-23T13:56:43-07:00April 21st, 2022|Back to Basics, HVAC|

Whole house fans are still commonly found at our home inspections they come in a few different varieties. While most of them are very old units, many of them are still in working condition. There are also newer versions which we see on occasion as Colorado has a decent climate for a whole house [...]

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Why Are Some Outlets Installed Upside Down?

By |2022-03-24T09:41:20-06:00March 24th, 2022|Back to Basics, Electrical|

Ask Your Inspector Series: Question: Why are some outlets installed upside down? Answer: Electricians use this standard practice to indicate which outlets are controlled by a wall switch that a light or lamp can be plugged into. Why are some outlets installed upside down? This is one of the most [...]

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Top Electrical Issues Found at Home Inspections

By |2025-01-23T11:21:01-07:00January 27th, 2022|Back to Basics, Electrical|

During the course of our 16+ years performing home inspections, with a team of home inspectors in Colorado, we have seen a wide range of electrical issues.  And while we have written a lot of articles on specific issues, we wanted to compile the top electrical issues found at home inspections into one place. [...]

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