Brian Sells Chicago · RE/MAX 2014 Awards

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Brian Sells Chicago · Geothermal Power

Geothermal power is “the heat from the Earth.” Geothermal power takes advantage of the earth’s natural heat. Geothermal energy is harnessed in two ways: tapping extremely hot temperatures via steam at great depths, or the use of moderate temperatures at shallow depths (http://ift.tt/1jdEaou). In almost all parts of the U.S., the shallow ground (upper 10 feet of the Earth’s surface) maintains a nearly constant temperature of 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. To use this naturally occurring heat, consumers can install a geothermal heat pump. The pump utilizes air or antifreeze liquid in pipes. The liquid or air is pumped through the pipes, which are buried underground, and comes back into the building. In summer, when the temperatures are hotter above ground, the liquid or air moves heat from the building into the ground; in the winter, when temperatures are colder, the pipes pump pre-warmed air or liquid into the building. Geothermal power is also a renewable energy that can supply continuous power

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Brian Sells Chicago · Wind Power

Another popular alternative energy option that has been seen throughout the U.S. is wind power. Wind power is the “power obtained by harnessing the energy of the wind.” Modern wind power uses wind turbines to harness wind’s kinetic energy, which is then turned into electricity. There are different types of wind power: Utility-scale, which are the large wind turbines seen on the side of hills– these are larger than 100 kilowatts and deliver electricity directly to the power grid; Distributed, which are smaller turbines, 100 kilowatts or less, and these deliver electricity directly to a home or small business. There are also offshore wind turbines, but these are mostly found outside the U.S. At the current moment, the U.S. receives about 4.1 percent of its electricity from wind power (www.awea.org/). Wind power is an excellent option for those who live in areas where there is a good source of wind all year long. Initially, wind power systems can be expensive, and the turbine prices vary depending on the type, ma

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Brian Sells Chicago · Solar Power

Solar power is “the power obtained by harnessing the energy of the sun’s rays.” This is done through solar panels and photo voltaic cells on the panels, which convert the sunlight into usable energy. Solar power is the most common and popular option for homeowners looking to take the first step toward alternative energy. Solar uses the power of the sun, so this option is best for homes or properties located in areas where sunlight is strong year-round. There are three types of solar panel systems: On-Grid Battery Systems, which are connected to the grid but also contain batteries that can store excess energy; On-Grid Systems without batteries – these are more simple and easier to install, but if the power goes out in the area the system will shut off; and Off-Grid Systems, which are not tied to the electricity grid and generate all their power independently. At the current moment, solar power accounts for three-tenths of one percent of the total energy consumed in the U.S. (instituteforenergyresearch.org/). F

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Brian Sells Chicago · New Year’s Resolutions

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to exercise more? I have been noticing all of the “New Year’s resolutions” people at the gym this past month. I try not to pay too much attention to how other people are exercising but at least once per week I see someone on a treadmill doing this ridiculous thing. Maybe you’ve seen it? A person holding on for dear life with the incline set at a steep angle. The purpose of the incline is to increase the effect of gravity on you, thus giving you a tougher workout. So why does someone grip the front handles so tightly? To counter the effect of the incline. I just want to run up and shake some sense into them! “You’re not getting the benefit you think you are! Either let go, or reduce the incline!” Oh, I so want to help. But they didn’t ask for my help. If I say anything I’ll just look like a jerk. But still I feel bad. This person is spending their money and their time and not getting the full benefit they deserve. I suppose it’s possible they don’t care, but I don’t

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