"TAP" the Sun

(Page 5 of 5)

January/February 1985
By Luke Elliott 
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It Works!

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You can expect to save 15 to 20 degrees on your fuel bill in an area served by a TAP. Specifically, computer analysis has shown that the system should pay back your investment in three to seven years—depending on how much you have to pay for conventional heating.

These figures represent a pretty good return on your money, but they don't even take tax credits into account. The federal government will cut your tax bill by 40 percent of the amount you invest in a solar collector, which takes most of $40 off the price of a TAP, come April 15. (State credits may also save you money.) And remember, those credits are scheduled to expire at the end of 1985, so this year is your golden opportunity to tap into solar!

Ten Tips for Top-Notch Caulking

[1] Read the label before you purchase. Be sure that the caulk you're about to buy is compatible with the materials you're using. And don't skimp—use only 100% silicone and beware of cheaper brands.

[2] Clean and dry. Thoroughly remove all dust, dirt, and moisture before you caulk.

[3] Keep your cool. Hot surfaces make silicone difficult to apply. Don't caulk during the heat of the day.

[4] Work fast! Silicone caulk skins over (dries) quickly. Once materials (such as glazing) are embedded in the caulk, they shouldn't be moved. An ineffective seal can result. Be sure you have everything at hand and positioned before the caulk leaves the tube.

[5] A 1/8" opening in the tube's nozzle will dispense enough silicone for most jobs.

[6] Slick the beads. Caulking wouldn't be half as messy but for this: Run your finger (rubber gloves work great) over the bead immediately after you caulk a joint or seam. This action forces the silicone into any gaps and insures a good seal.

[7] A plentiful supply of rags or towels to wipe your hands on will save pant legs and shin sleeves.

[8 ] Paint doesn't adhere to silicone caulk, so coat everything before you caulk.

[9] Disengage the caulk gun after each use to avoid wasting the globs that inevitably ooze out under sustained pressure.

[10] Push a large nail into the nozzle to save a partially used tube.

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Comments

  • Rev. Dick Freeman 2/6/2009 11:08:21 AM

    This is a simple type of construction that is able to save a constant amount on the heat bill, with a few changes and addition,s it can also be used to heat water.

  • clairblackburn 10/11/2007 12:18:39 PM

    I'm trying to look at the images galery and I printed the story but
    it did not print the Image on "TAP" The Sun. Can you help. Thanks
    Clair

  • clairblackburn 10/11/2007 12:04:29 PM

    I was trying to look at the image of the Storm Window Solor Panels
    Image Gallery but was unable. I tryed printing the story but the
    image did not print. Can you help. Thanks. Clair

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