St Thomas Family Banks on Efficiency
For the Dixons, the talk of going green is much more than talk but a passion put ardently into practise, “We are big believers of energy efficiency and do all we can to save,” says Newton Dixon of Retreat, St Thomas.
And indeed Newton and his wife Beulah have put their beliefs into sustainable practise turning their home into a model energy-efficient dwelling, “We make a conscious effort to only buy eco-efficient appliances as well as we use surge protectors, energy-saving LED bulbs, even solar powered garden lights” said Newton.
Their biggest energy efficient venture came recently with the procurement of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. “We had long thought about going solar as an additional way of saving on our energy receipts so we worked with an independent supplier to set up a stand-alone PV system.” Stand-alone PV systems are electrical power systems energised by solar PV panels which are independent of the national power grid. Storage battery banks are used to store the electrical energy produced by the PV panels.
The initial system, however, failed to meet their expectations barely generating enough electricity to run their residence. So the Dixons contracted energy solutions company ATL Energy (Appliance Traders Limited) to inspect it. “We assessed their setup and determined that their system was underperforming due to faulty equipment including faulty batteries, a faulty inverter controller as well as insufficient panels,” said Richard Marquis, Senior Application Engineer at ATL Energy. “We were able to salvage the panels from their previous setup, rewire the entire system and boost it to a powerful 3KW capable structure. We also outfitted the Dixons with a charge controller, which protects the system from electrical surges as well as prevents the batteries from under/overcharging,” said Marquis.
With their system now retrofitted and functioning, the Dixons gush that the move to solar was one of the best decisions they ever made. “Currently we run heavy appliances such as our standing refrigerator, deep freezer as well our entire household lighting completely on solar energy,” said Mrs Dixon, “I am so happy that ATL was able to save our investment because we are truly a ‘green’ family”.
Lightening the Light Bill
“You’d be amazed at the difference that the type of light bulb used makes on your energy bill,” commented Shani Duncan, Head of Appliance Traders’ Energy Division (ATL).
Duncan recommended consumers make the switch to LED bulbs to bring about immediate savings on future energy receipts. “LED bulbs use up to 89% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 years so with cheaper running costs and fewer replacements, you’ll see energy savings straight away,” she said.
Panasonic, one of the world’s leading ‘green’ electronics companies harnesses the use of LED technology, manufacturing a wide range of eco-friendly devices including the relatively inexpensive but effective bulbs. “Panasonic has the best LED bulbs on the market which are not only eco-friendly but also considerably affordable,” quipped Duncan. “They range from J$2500** upward which is remarkable for a bulb that you’ll only change twice in 50 years. The LED emits the same soft white light much like fluorescents but are more efficient, durable and have a long life span which makes them perfect for residential lighting”.
The Energy division head urged consumers to undertake an energy assessment of their homes to develop tailored conservation methods, “Every step towards conservation impacts our financial bottom line so the time is right to make the energy switch.” And for those looking to cut back even further, Duncan advises that there are a plethora of options, from small steps such as switching to energy-efficient bulbs or going completely off the power grid by way of solar panels. “Consumers have the option of going off-grid becoming fully reliant on their own photovoltaic (PV) system or they can introduce a grid-tie system which utilizes both the PV’s and the national power grid,” she advised.
Small Hotels Benefit from ATL Financing
Hotels and properties looking to secure commercial equipment for start-ups and expansions are set to benefit from Appliance Traders Limited’s (ATL) new financing programme for small and medium Enterprises (SME’s) – ATL Unbeatable Credit.
ATL Unbeatable Credit strikes a convenient option for proprietors looking to boost their business without breaking the bank stated Managing Director of ATL, Danville Walker, “We offer competitive interest rates for businesses to acquire commercial equipment and what’s better is that we also offer warranty and service”.
One hotelier, Michael Grandison of Merrils Beach Resort in Negril, who recently entered a J$6.7 million contract with ATL expressed that the company’s financing option is smart solution for modern businesses, “In the hotel industry we’re always upgrading and it is rather cumbersome to obtain business loans from banks for commercial purposes as opposed to domestic items. It’s much more convenient to get financing from the company that not only sells the equipment but also knows how to service them”.
Grandison who will be augmenting all three Merril properties with commercial generators from ATL also commented that the company’s stake in energy-efficient products made it an easy buy, “Energy efficiency is important in the hotel business because electricity is such a costly utility especially ahead of the upcoming winter season when we anticipate maximum occupancy. The ATL team assessed my consumption patterns and recommended the best products for me. I’ll definitely be exploring additional energy-efficiency products such as PV panels and solar water heaters.”
Reporting an uptake of J$100 million on new loan portfolios since launching six months ago, Walker stated that the public response on both domestic and business accounts showed a steady surge, “We’ve noted marked increase in our financing portfolio particularly within the business sector and tourism industry as hoteliers move to procure commercial laundry equipment, air conditioning units, industrial kitchen equipment, generators as well as energy solutions especially ahead of the upcoming busy season”.
ATL’s Unbeatable Credit programme offers payment terms from three to thirty-six months with available options for payment moratoriums. The company carries a number of products in the commercial, industrial and energy-lines that are suitable for SME’s including generators, solar panel systems among others.
Unusual Uses for Steam Irons
REMOVE WAX FROM LINEN
A steam iron is the perfect tool for lifting melted wax from linens. Lay a couple of paper towels over the wax and then press them with the iron. The wax will transfer to the towels as it melts. Move the towels each time you pick up the iron to prevent redepositing the wax.
FLUFF UP CRUSHED CARPETS
We’ve all been there: you move a piece of furniture, and you have that ugly compressed carpet where the furniture used to be. The cure for a crushed carpet? Use a spoon to loosen the fibers up; then hold a hot iron over the area and let the steam fluff up the carpeting.
IRON ON VENEER
An iron is the perfect choice for applying iron on veneer edging or patches. The heat from the iron activates the glue on the veneer. All you have to do is cut the veneer to the size you need, cover it with a piece of heavy paper or a cloth to protect the surface and then press with your iron to activate the glue.
FIX DENTS AND DINGS ON WOOD FURNITURE
To fix dents on wood furniture, poke several holes in the wood with a pin, lay a slightly damp cloth over it and hold the steam iron just above the area. This lets in enough moisture to swell the wood to its original size.
REPAIR A LOOSE VINYL TILE
Vinyl floor tiles sometimes slip out of place. Cover the tile with aluminum foil and run a hot iron back and forth over the area; the heat will reactivate the tile adhesive. Then, just stack a couple of books on to hold the repair down for a couple of hours. Safety tip: Aluminum foil can get hot so don’t get burned.
FIX BROKEN OR DAMAGED VINYL
The same iron that can help adhere a loose vinyl tile can also can help remove a broken one. The same principle applies: using heat to reactive the glue. Lay the aluminum foil over the tile and run the iron over it to loosen the adhesive. Then use a wide putty knife to remove the tile. A little vinegar will remove any adhesive residue. Then simply replace with a new tile.
IRON MORE EFFICIENTLY
Put a layer of aluminum foil under the cover on your ironing board, the heat from the iron will reflect off of the foil and help you iron twice as fast!
MOU SIGNED FOR JAMAICA’S FIRST SOLAR AUTOMOTIVE SHOWROOMS
Local automotive giant ATL Automotive Limited today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Panasonic Latin America for the solar energy transformation of the Audi Terminal and Volkswagen Showroom on Oxford Road.
The announcement was made at a tour of the ATL Eco Store in the Manor Park Plaza. ATL Automotive’s CEO Adam Stewart outlined that the project is estimated to cost over J$25,000,000.
“We opened the two most sophisticated automotive showrooms in the Caribbean earlier this year at a cost of US$13 million. Anyone who has seen inside either Audi or Volkswagen would have seen the extensive lighting required in each and could also imagine the electricity cost that comes with that level of lighting. With the continued increase in fuel costs worldwide, a solar transformation at this time is our best option as it will drastically reduce our electricity consumption, thus saving us some money,” Mr Stewart explained.
Panasonic will install a 58.8Kw on grid system at the Oxford Road premises. This will supply approximately 30 percent of the power consumption and use an estimated area of 500m2. Panasonic STD module 245W panels with an efficiency of 14.8 percent and an output warranty of 25 years will be utilized.
“We have enjoyed a long standing partnership with Panasonic so we are confident in that we are receiving world class service from a company with more than 35 years’ experience in solar technology,” the CEO noted.
Work is expected to begin on the project in just a few weeks with completion estimated between a three and four week period.
According to Mr Stewart, this is the largest automotive investment by any local company. “We brought these brands to Jamaica based on a firm belief that the people of this country deserved better. Audi and VW have a goal to dominate the automotive industry worldwide by 2018 and this little country is contributing to that historic achievement in a big way. The feedback has been tremendous since we opened.,” Mr Stewart said.
To some on-lookers, the best view of the new showroom is at night when the lights on the German designed building illuminate Oxford Road into a never before seen spectacle.
ATL OPENS JAMAICA’S FIRST ECO-STORE
General Manager of Appliance Traders Limited (ATL) Ian Neita (right) demonstrates to Kelly Tomblin, head of the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) how to navigate the touchscreen Panasonic Eco-Simulator at the launch of ATL’s Eco Store in Kingston on Thursday June 6. The ATL Eco-Store is Jamaica’s first energy-exclusive retailer and will distribute a range of green electronics including inverter refrigerators and air-conditioners, solar panels as well as LED bulbs.
Outside the ATl Eco Store located in Lower Manor Park Plaza
Business and engineering solutions retailer Appliance Traders Limited (ATL) has made another streamlined move into the energy space with the launch of its energy-exclusive retail outlet, the ATL Eco-Store.
The first of its kind in Jamaica, ATL’s Eco-Store, located in the Manor Park Plaza in Kingston, marks the company’s continued expansion into the alternative energy space following the launch of its Energy Solutions division in April this year and the introduction of its own ‘Eco-Smart’ electronics-efficiency certification.
Teaming up with long standing partner Panasonic as well as Israel’s top solar water heater provider Nimrod, the ATL Eco-Store boasts the latest ‘green’ technology from the Panasonic inverter product line including air conditioners and refrigerators, Panasonic HIT solar panels, televisions, LED and CFL lighting as well as Nimrod’s solar water heaters and other photovoltaic (PV) systems. The store will also carry a range of timers, energy monitors and power strips from the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) with whom ATL forged a strategic partnership in May to retail energy saving products.
Speaking at a media tour of the Eco-Store, General Manager for ATL Ian Neita reaffirmed the company’s commitment to provide more eco-efficient solutions for Jamaican homes and businesses. “One great catalyst of consumer interest in ‘green’ electronics is cost savings. It is proven that older appliances and our high electricity consumption will continue to inflate our energy receipts and drain both our national and environmental resources. While consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the need to reduce their energy consumption, many remain uncertain of the measures they can take. ATL through its Energy Solutions division and the ATL Eco-Store are prepared to help Jamaicans make the all-important savings switch to go green.”
In addition to showcasing eco-electronics, the new ATL energy- exclusive outlet also boasts an interactive Panasonic Eco–Simulator which compares consumption patterns of energy saving appliances versus inefficient models to aid customers in learning about conservation and efficiency.
The ATL Eco-Store, previously one of the company’s two Kingston outlets, will be open to the public Monday June 10 and will operate Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm and from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Saturdays.
Power Partnership: ATL and JPS to Jointly Retail Energy-Saving Products
Deputy Chairman of the ATL Group Adam Stewart (left) presents an ATL Energy Solutions goodie tote bag to JPS head Kelly Tomblin following the announcement of a partnership between ATL and JPS. The partnership will see ATL extending its distribution of alternative and energy-efficient products through JPS’ Customer Service eStore outlets.
Electronics and industrial solutions company Appliance Traders Limited (ATL) has joined forces with Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to provide energy-saving products and services to Jamaican homes and businesses. The partnership was sealed after both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 22nd and will see ATL extending its distribution of alternative and energy-efficient products through JPS’ Customer Service eStore outlets.
Deputy Chairman of the ATL Group, Adam Stewart commended the new alliance citing that it demonstrated genuine intent by JPS to show Jamaicans how to reduce their energy bills. “This move is uncharacteristic of a power company, some would say its’ even counterintuitive but what it shows is that JPS cares about the energy crunch being felt by its customers,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of JPS, Kelly Tomblin responded in tow stating that the company wanted to educate and empower its customers to responsibly manage their energy use. “JPS is redefining its relationships with its customers; becoming more intimate and moving to address their concerns about energy costs. Partnering with a giant like ATL can help us deliver like we’ve never delivered before,” Tomblin said.
JPS will augment their eStore offering with energy-efficienct electronics from ATL including Panasonic inverter refrigerators, Panasonic inverter air conditioning units and Nimrod solar water heaters. The power company’s customers will also benefit from technical and consultative services through ATL’s Energy Solutions arm. “What we find is that the average consumer isn’t fully informed on how inefficient appliances can affect energy receipts so through our partnership with JPS we hope to offer energy-mindful solutions and cut costs,” said Stewart.
The partnership between ATL and JPS comes a few months after strategic energy initiatives by both companies in a mandate to promote energy conservation and efficiency. Earlier this year, ATL announced its expansion into the alternative energy business with the launch of its streamlined Energy Solutions division. ATL who already had solid footing in the ‘green space’ added to its already extensive range of energy efficient product line, providing solar water heating systems, photovoltaic panels, inverter batteries, pool pumps, LED lights, smart thermostats along with other energy-saving and eco-friendly devices. The company also revealed its plans for rebranding its Manor Park location as a fully outfitted eco-store, the first of its kind in Jamaica.
In April, JPS rolled out their eStore concept designed to offer different energy-savings products, including a variety of power efficient gadgets, timers and sensors. JPS currently has one eStore outlet at its Ruthven Road branch and has plans to open two additional stores before the end of the year.
ATL Credit Takes to the Streets
Be on the lookout for the ATL Mobile team. First stop, Ocho Rios!!!
ATL’s Mobile Team will cover every corner of Jamaica spreading the word about ATL Great Credit Offer!
Stay tuned for more updates, more pics of the team in action and more reports from the Road.
Combating Drought: Do you have enough water stored?
With the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management’s (ODPEM) forecast of drought to grip the island over the next three months, Director Ronald Jackson has urged Jamaicans to start conserving water.
“Typically, every January we are faced with the beginning of a dry spell in our country, which is usually what we call the primary dry period. We are asking the public that even before the Met Office (Meteorological Service) declares a drought that they begin to practise certain mitigation measures and also preparedness measures, well in advance of such a declaration, because we are trying to promote a culture of prevention and readiness,” said Jackson.
Increased incidence of drought and lengthy seasons of water scarcity have seen Jamaicans investing in more permanent water storage systems for their homes and businesses. Water systems, from tanks to pumps have gained popularity because of their convenience, affordability as well as capacity range. However, how can consumers determine the best water system to purchase for their homes or businesses?
What is included in a water system?
Typically a complete water system will include a water storage tank; a pump to transfer the water from the storage unit to the tap and a pressure tank to maintain a consistent flow of water to the tap.
How much water do you need to store?
When buying a tank, the first things you should determine are how much water you need and your intended use for the stored water i.e. domestic, agricultural. “When purchasing tanks, you must first assess how much water you need to store to cover your needs” said Locksley Waller, Technical Operations Manager at Appliance Traders Limited, Jamaica’s chief retailer of domestic and special order tanks. “The average person uses up to 80-100 gallons of water per day including flushing the toilet, showering, hand-washing and cooking so you have to calculate tank capacity on a per person basis. If for instance there are four people in your household, you would need to store 400 gallons of water per day. If the tank is to be used for agricultural purposes, the same rule applies whereas you would have to determine the volume of water needed for crops, livestock and store accordingly,” he said.
What are the different kinds of tanks and where will you store it?
“Tanks come in a variety of sizes and materials including plastic (polyethylene, polypropylene), fiberglass, concrete, stone and steel, with the most common domestic option being plastic ” explains Waller. The intended location of the tank (indoors, outdoors, above ground or underground) also play a big part in its colour and construction characteristics.
Will I need any additional equipment to get my system going?
In addition to the tank, ATL’s Waller also recommends completing your system with a pressure tank and electrical pump to ensure consistent flow. “Pumps such as DAB will help to transfer the water from the tank towards the taps whereas pressure tanks will help to maintain a steady ‘pressurized’ flow while reducing the number of starts the pump makes, conserving energy in the process. The size of the pump and pressure tank that will be required is dependent on the number of persons in the household and also the height to which the water has to be pumped
Will the pump affect my electricity bill?
The more frequently your pump starts is the more power it will consume. A larger pump will also generally consume more electricity, “ATL carries the ‘Active Driver’ – an inverter energy saving controller that will allow your pump to run only at the speed necessary to satisfy your flow requirement. This device allows your system to operate at a constant pressure regardless of the flow demand by varying the speed of the pump motor to match the demand. This user friendly interface enhances comfort, runs silently, eliminates over pressurization, extends pump life, allows trouble free installations and is compatible with a large range of pump types” said Waller.
How long can water be stored?
If stored properly, water can be saved for approximately 24 months providing the tank remains airtight. By design a water tank/container should do no harm to the water said Waller. Water is susceptible to a number of ambient negative influences, including bacteria, viruses, algae, changes in pH, and accumulation of minerals, accumulated gas. A correctly designed water tank works to address and mitigate these negative effects.
Drought is one of the most costly natural disasters and accounted for over 30 per cent crop loss in Trelawny last April and so in addition to storing water in tanks, Waller also recommends having gallon bottles stored. “There is no such thing as saving too much water in preparation for a steely drought season so persons should also ensure they have gallon bottles on hand. Allocate one gallon of water per person per day. That means if you have three people in your family, you should allocate three gallons per day.”
Basic Pump (DAB 0 .6 HP) and Tank (400 gallon) are available at ATL starting at $39,000. www.atljamaica.com.
HOT SHOWER BENEFITS
Improve Circulation
Hot water can treat muscular and joint pain associated with arthritis, muscle tears and overuse. The warmth will stimulate circulation and blood flow while loosening joints, tendons, tissues and muscles. While it may not cure the pain for good, 5 minutes under hot water can considerably ease pain, stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. Plus, it’s more convenient than a massage and more natural than medical treatments.
Cleanse the Skin
Clogged pores can lead to blemishes and a build-up of toxins in the skin. Hot water and steam will open the pores on your skin, making it easier to clean and release impurities. Following with a cold water rinse will close the pores again and make your skin feel refreshed.
Warm-Up
A hot shower is an effective way to warm-up before a morning workout. When you get out of bed in the morning, muscles can be stiff. It’s important to be completely warm and loose before any exercise, and a hot shower can get the blood flowing, warm the muscles and prime them for exercise.
Relieve Stiff Neck and Shoulders
Aside from a massage, a hot shower is the next best thing for a stiff neck or shoulder pain. Letting hot water run over this area for 10 minutes will relax the muscles. Doing some easy neck and shoulder rolls while in the shower will further loosen these muscles.
Relieve Coughs
The steam from a hot shower can loosen phlegm and get rid of mucous which could be causing a cough or sore throat. Adding eucalyptus oil to your skin or the air will make the steam more effective and can help you breathe more easily. A hot shower can also relieve other body aches associated with a cold.
Decrease Stress and Insomnia
A hot shower is a natural sedative. If you are stressed or have trouble sleeping, taking a hot shower for 10 minutes will calm your body, mind and nerves. Adding lavender oil will help too because this is a natural relaxation herb.
Hot Water Heaters – http://atljamaica.com/index.php?cPath=2_65
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/23419-hot-shower-benefits/#ixzz2HJzhXEgp
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