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Aube has come out with a newer version of the TI035 for your exterior lighting.

Pro:  It  now has a back lighted display which is a big improvement. There is no cover to pry up to get to the controls and it automatically changes for day light sayings. It has a nice clean design.  I upgraded the one in my house about 2 weeks ago and it is working flawlessly.

Con: Non

I have installed Lightolier recessed lights for many years. Model # 1004ICR works very well both newer and older homes. This remodel rough in can can be used with many different type of finish trims and can be used in direct contact with insulation.

Pro:  Quality, price and versatility

Con:  None

We installed a Generac automatic back up generator this week.  It was used for a home in which the owner wanted to have power for the sump pumps as well as some lights, the heat and the refrigerator.

Pro:  Cost effective and easy to install.

Con:  Non

Today I installed two Besa light fixtures over a kitchen island.  They were supplied by the client. They were easy to install and to adjust the height.  They also had enough power to light the entire island.

Pro: Good quality and quick  installation. They have many different glass cones to choose from.

Con: Non

I only use insulated ducting when venting to the exterior for bathroom exhaust fans. If uninsulated venting goes through a cold attic the moist air will condense inside the ducting causing problems.

Pro:  Easy to use and install

Con: It costs more money, but worth every penny.

I have not installed one of these fans in many years. I do NOT recommend them. Occasionally a client will ask me to replace the electric motor and the fan blade which is usually the problem with these fans. A client recently called and ask me about one I had  replaced 1 year ago, because it has broken again.

Pro: Good looking

Con: The fans are very loud and I have frequently replaced the motors and fan blades which do not seem to last very long.  Construction quality is poor.

I wired a Bosch Power Star AE125 Instant Water Heater recently. It was fairly easy to wire  and the maker claims it can heat the water instantly up to 115 degrees at 3 gallons per minute.

Pro: It saves energy by turning on only if you use hot water. It does not store heated water.

Con: You need to have at least a 2oo amp service as it uses a lot of power when in use. It needed 6 circuit breaker spaces in the main panel. Very cold winter time water temperatures and using more than 1 shower at a time can reduce the units ability to keep water up to 115 degrees.

I recently installed several Nutone QTRN110L exhaust fans. They are of reasonable quality and quiet. I like this one because it has a nice clean design that works in just about any bathroom.

Pro: Reasonably priced and good looking.

Con: Quality could be a little better.

I have been installing the new tamper resistant ( TR ) outlets for about 2 years. It is required by code for new and replacement outlets in homes.  They help prevent accidental shock from children playing with metal objects. They have hidden trap doors that do not allow things like a paper clip or a key to enter the slot.

Pro: They are safe and look just like any other outlet.

Con: They are more expensive and inserting my voltage testers can be a little tricky.

I have used Lutron dimmer switches for many years.  The AY-600P WH  toggle style is the one that I use most. They offer a traditional feel.  They look nice in both old and newer homes.

Pro:   They help bulbs last much longer and save energy.  Durable.  No knobs that can break or  fall off.

Con: None