Choosing the right HVAC system

ENERGY EFFICIENCY MATTERS Energy efficiency is not only beneficial for the environment but also for your wallet. Look for HVAC systems with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings for cooling and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratings for heating. These ratings indicate the system's efficiency, with higher numbers representing better energy savings. Additionally, consider systems with features like programmable thermostats and zoning capabilities to optimize energy usage.

ASSESS YOUR HOME'S HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Before diving into the world of HVAC systems, it's important to assess your home's heating and cooling needs. Factors such as square footage, insulation, number of windows, and climate should be considered. By understanding your specific requirements, you can choose a system that is appropriately sized and efficient for your home.

EVALUATE NOISE LEVELS Nobody wants a noisy HVAC system disrupting their peace and quiet. When choosing an HVAC system, consider its noise levels. Look for units with lower decibel ratings to ensure a quieter operation. This is particularly important if you have bedrooms or living areas close to the HVAC system's location.

CONSIDER AIR QUALITY FEATURES Indoor air quality plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy and comfortable home environment. Look for HVAC systems that offer advanced air filtration, humidity control, and ventilation options. These features can help remove allergens, control moisture levels, and ensure fresh air circulation, improving the overall air quality within your home.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE While it's beneficial to educate yourself about HVAC systems, seeking professional guidance is crucial. An experienced HVAC technician can assess your home's unique requirements, recommend suitable options, and provide expert installation services. They will ensure that your HVAC system is properly sized, installed, and optimized for maximum efficiency and performance.

Until next time,

la chasse au bonheur

bouncing back after daylight saving ends

I'm not sure how you feel about Daylight Saving Time? I'm a big fan when it's 9:00 pm in the summer, but when fall hits and it's pitch black before dinner, I'm not so thrilled. 

That Monday following the end of Daylight Saving Time is pretty much the worst. You feel disoriented and groggy and your sleep schedule is bonkers. There's just no question that DST messes with your internal clock. Here are some tips to help you transition that first+ week following the time change.

AVOID COFFEE AND ALCOHOL

Getting quality sleep while your body adjusts the first week or so is key! Avoid drinking coffee 4-6 hours before bedtime as caffeine interferes with your sleep schedule. A big cuppa joe first thing in the am is however highly recommended. Alcohol can also affect your sleep schedule, so skip the booze that first week while your body is adjusting. 

TRY TO FOREGO NAPS

Your first instinct might be to take naps to get some energy back during the day. A power nap fo 20 minutes is perfectly acceptable 'they' say - it's enough time to give you an energy boost without throwing off your internal clock even more. Anything longer than that will make it harder for you to get a full night of quality sleep. Best to just power through the day and hit the sack at a reasonable hour (note to self - that's not 6 pm). 

BE CONSISTENT WITH YOUR SCHEDULE

Don't shift your schedule an hour back or forward to compensate for the time difference. If you have a specific routine, try to stick with it the best you can. And try not to hit the snooze on your alarm each morning. When you stick to your schedule it will make it easier to transition to the new season. Plus, if you wake up early enough to catch the sunlight (ok, maybe not an option in the PNW), it will invigorate you and help you jump-start your day. 

PRACTICE GOOD HABITS BEFORE BEDTIME

Probably something that could/should be done 24/7/365! They say avoiding electronics an hour before bedtime is key to falling asleep as the blue light that electronics emit stimulates your brain the same way the sun does and makes it harder to get to sleep. Reading before bed is still the run away winner for lulling you into a restful state. I personally find the Calm app very helpful to drift off when my mind won't turn off. I believe they offer a 7 day free trial. 

IMPLEMENT A 'LIGHT' SCHEDULE

The most important thing to do when daylight saving time ends is to expose yourself to as much sunlight as possible to keep your internal clock running. Short walks throughout the day, opening your window coverings, and sitting for a few minutes in the sun (remember your spf) are all good ways to make sure your body is feeling and seeing the light. If you're not exposed to enough light, it can affect your serotonin levels. Make sure you are getting as much sunlight as possible during this shift. 

I hope these tips help - I'm off to take a nap, er read a book!

Until next time,

Darcy

Creating a Cozy Home

Fall is all about creating a warm and inviting home. Think about what comforts you during these chilly and dark months. By adding those items into your interiors you will feel warmer, and so will your guests. Adding layers of throws, blankets and soft pillows with different textures and patterns is a wonderful start. I have a habit of buying up vintage blankets - some have pedigree, like my vintage Hudson Bay and a few of my Pendletons, but most are just tattered, vintage throws I've collected because I simply love the pattern or the color. I confess that my throw fetish is so bad that I had to buy another suitcase in Ireland just to bring back all the blankets I picked up there. Oh my!

At the end of this post you will find links to a few
of my favorite woolen mills and manufacturers. 

A blazing fire goes a long way to make you feel warm and snug. For fire safety, be sure to have your chimney looked at every few years by a local chimney sweep and burn a creosote log every few fires to reduce and treat creosote buildup. Pine Mountain makes a good one. 

Now’s the time to bring in natural elements. A simple wreath on the front door is the perfect way to welcome guests. This is the time of year when I forgo the floral shop and head outside with my shears. I gather branches from our flaming maple, vines from our grape arbor, and fallen leaves, pinecones, acorns and chestnuts. 

The colors of fall weave beautifully into my interiors. So adding in more autumnal hues of amber, ochre and copper is fairly easy. To heighten these gorgeous fall colors, add the warm flicker of candles (please, never leave a candle burning unattended). 

However you choose to warm up your home, I wish you all the bounty and blessing this beautiful season offers. 

Until next time,

la chasse au bonheur

Nothing cozies up a home like a soft throw - whether tossed over a chair, piled high in a basket, used as a tablecloth, or placed at the foot of a bed. My fetish for woolens dates back to 1966 when my mother gave me her tan plaid Pendleton car blanket - I've been collecting them ever since (and that blanket can be found in my car to this day). Here are my favorite manufacturers -

Pendelton

Harris Tweed

John Hanly

Be sure to check local vintage shops as they, quite often, have vintage woolens that, once washed, look marvelous in a collection.