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Kingsman IDV33 - Direct Vent Gas Insert

2/26/2014

In our most recent fireplace installation, we installed the IDV33 in pewter by Kingsman fireplaces. The IDV33 is a direct vent insert. When installing a direct vent insert, we are still using a chimney stack to fulfill the fireplace's venting requirements. A direct vent insert requires the use of a dual venting system installed in an existing chimney. One of the vents is strictly for exhaust, while the other has the job of intaking fresh outside air for proper combustion. These inserts are designed to create a completely sealed system which will adequately heat your space, without adversely affecting your indoor air quality.

In this particular installation, we were dealing with a very small firebox opening. With this firebox no longer considered safe for open fires, these homeowners were left with a drafty and empty opening which was devoid of any practical use.

The clients were also having difficulty maintaining a comfortable temperature in this livingroom. The room was consistently 3 to 4º lower than the rest of the house partially due to the drafts from the chimney, along with other factors such as the position of the room in the home (front of house and near front entry).

The IDV33's compact size, efficiency and numerous features were the perfect choice in this particular application. These homeowners now have a very cozy fire to sit by, which is warming as well as pleasing to the eye. They have not only added to the value of their home, but also, will never have to worry about freezing during a winter power outage. They will stay warm and comfortable with or without electricity.

With small children running around the house, these homeowners have chosen to place a protective screen in front of the fireplace to protect little hands from the hot glass. We think it looks great!

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Clear snow from all outside vents

2/19/2014

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Snow, snow and more snow..when will it end?

Remembering to clear our sidewalks, walkways, cars and driveways of snow and ice is a no brainer. We have city bi-laws, neighbours, stuck cars and slippery surfaces constantly reminding us to do what is necessary.
What is often forgotten, are the vents from all of our power vented natural gas equipment. In order to operate efficiently and safely, natural gas equipment must be able to vent freely to the outside of our homes. When venting becomes buried and covered in snow, it is not able to supply the equipment with the fresh air it needs to operate. Most of these appliances are outfitted with safety switches, which will shut the equipment down in a case of faulty venting, but not all. Equipment that continues to operate with compromised venting, can lead to a house or building being filled with carbon monoxide, a dangerous and potentially lethal situation.

When the snow begins to accumulate, ensure that all outside vents are cleared of snow, and check them often. Even if it hasn't snowed recently, a windy day can cause drifting which can also lead to buried vents. Keep your vents clear, and check your carbon monoxide detectors regularly to ensure they are fully operational.

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It's All Good Banana Oat Cookies

2/5/2014

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These cookies are loaded with healthy ingredients, and make the perfect snack for school lunches, work lunches or on the go lunches. They are sugar free, nut free, dairy free, soy free, gluten free, and delicious. Seriously!
This recipe uses the natural sugars from bananas and dates, to create a deliciously sweet tasting cookie without the use of any refined or processed sugars.
No need to worry about dryness, or gumminess either. Healthy fats from the sunflower seeds and coconut oil, give these cookies a soft and rich texture that will leave you craving more. These have become a staple in our home - we hope you enjoy them as much as we do!

Ingredients

2 cups gluten free oats, divided
1.5 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 ripe bananas
1/2 cup (packed) pitted medjool dates
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/3 cup sunflower seeds
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
optional add-ins..chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit.

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Process 1.5 cups of the oats into flour, using a high speed blender or food processor. Add the baking powder and salt to the oats and continue to process, just to combine the ingredients.
Empty the oat mixture into a medium bowl.
Add bananas, dates, coconut oil, sunflower seeds and vanilla to the blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, blending on low speed just to combine.
Add the banana, date mix to the dry oat mix, along with remaining 1/2 of unprocessed oats and stir just to combine. Stir in any optional add-ins if desired!
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto the pan, 1-2 inches apart. Bake for 15 mins, or until golden brown.
Enjoy!

This recipe is loosely adapted from a vegan version called "banana bread muffin tops" by Angela Liddon

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Kingsman IDV33 - Direct Vent Gas Insert

Clear snow from all outside vents

It's All Good Banana Oat Cookies

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