When the detector senses an object across its field of view move, it triggers the lights to turn on. The lights would stay on from 1 to 20 minutes, depending on how you preset the timer. After the preset time, the detector automatically shuts the lights off unless there are further movements within its range.

Is it time to replace your old dryer? Great news: The federal Energy Star program has started certifying clothes dryers, making it easy to pick out the most cost-effective and efficient models. Read on to find out what the change means and how to pick out the best model for your home.

Moisture and Heat Settings

The upside is clear: “ENERGY STAR certified dryers use 20 percent less energy than conventional models without sacrificing features or performance,” the program promises. So what took so long for dryers to get the federal efficiency stamp of approval?

“With dryers there are fewer major variables to manipulate — mostly it’s drying time and the amount of heat provided,” said Emilio Gonzalez, a Consumer Reports test engineer, so it was harder to find adjustments to meet the standard.

How did manufacturers finally find the extra energy savings?

The savings are not trivial. Energy Star claims that if every household in America switched over, consumers would save a total of $1.5 billion annually in utilities. The reduction in pollution would be the same as taking 2 million cars off the road.

Upgrade the Laundry Room

The first certified models are already available -- find a list of them on the Energy Star directory, which allows you to compare size, fuel type, energy use and other factors.

If you have a gas hookup in your laundry room, consider purchasing a gas-powered dryer. These models have a higher price tag but are more efficient across the board than their electric cousins. No matter what kind of dryer you buy, make sure you adhere to the following tips so you get the most for your money:

“I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live.  I rejoice in life for its own sake.  Life is no brief candle to me.  It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”-George Bernard Shaw  This quote is one by which Hy Goldman lives.

Whether by association to the torch and the carrying of light, these words are powerful and reminiscent of a work ethic that elevates life to divine heights.

Hy Goldman celebrates his birthday at Benvenuti Ristorante in East Hanover. Pictured here with treasured friend, Gloria Schwartz, grand-daughter of the late Ethel Lebersfeld.  Ethel Lebersfeld hired Hy on June 1, 1941.  He has worked for Capitol Lighting ever since.

In this day and age of the perpetual search for an easier life, more leisure time and the latest frivolity, we hold dear to the depth of character and bright quality of a life that continues to sustain a great worker and humble man who lights up our lives.

Hy Goldman celebrates family and an outstanding career.  He said he will retire on his 100th birthday this Saturday August 17, 2013, but time will tell!  We intend to keep him shining brighter than a Capitol chandelier.

Hy with Donna Costello, a recently “retired” Capitol Lighting star.   Donna Costello remains close in spirit to all who have been blessed to work with her.

Hy Goldman celebrates with friends and family.  Pictured with Adele Lebersfeld (standing), Max Lebersfeld (standing), Moya Goldman and  Stanley Goldman.

His family, son Stanley and daughter-in-law Moya, say that “Hy” is stubborn.  He stubbornly holds unto the values that keep him strong, and this may be the key to his longevity.  He wastes nothing and appreciates everything. “Every day is a gift,” he says with a smile and a quiet graciousness that uplifts the spirits of all who come to greet him.

Hy with Carol Saggiammo.  Carol recently celebrated her outstanding career with Capitol Lighting, and she is still going strong.

Governor Chris Christie officially acknowledges Herman “Hy” Goldman’s 100th birthday…

Hy Goldman at work:

He may be moving a bit slower than when he was 20, but he is at the top of his game in creativity and spirit!

Check out the latest “Hy Original Re-creations”…

A stunning crystal lamp brilliantly designed and reworked and wired into a magnificent one-of-a-kind piece.

The Tree of Light and Glass.  He has customers, as well as co-workers competing for his original works of art.

Do you have an electrical repair or a project you’re moving forward on, or you’re wanting to improve the look of your home or business?  Will you do it yourself, hire a handyman, or hire a qualified electrician?

Because of the rising costs of our island’s economic environment, many are looking for ways to cut costs when it comes to electrical repairs or additions. One way people are doing this is through their own attempts or choose someone who claims to be a qualified electrician working as a “handyman”. The current economy has left many skilled tradespersons unemployed and eager to offer their expertise as a handyman repair worker.

A “handyman” might be able to do the electrical job you have or they might not.  How are you to know?  Much of the work performed in an electrical project is covered up by walls, wire junction boxes, or in limited access locations.  I’ve  seen bad connections where the previous installer has connected wires using gift wrapping tape or paper clips or some other household items. Also, wires that carry high voltage were cut, pinched, and fully exposed to a shock or fire hazard (see above picture).  The owners knew nothing about this!  Following the electrical codes didn’t seem to be a priority in these attempts.  Codes need to be met or there’s a huge liability to persons and property.

Electrical wiring can be very dangerous! A handyman may have some electrical talent, but they are not recognized by the law as a licensed contractor. In other words, in Hawaii, they cannot pull permits on jobs where they are required or legally work on projects that earn $1000.00 or more for their services. The State knows the dangers of unlicensed work.  They are not just looking for other means for revenue.  If you hire someone who is unlicensed to save money, then you are taking a huge risk.  If something goes wrong,  you have  very little recourse.  You could end up paying more in the end.

Blue Sky Electric not only is licensed, but insured and bonded.  The State requires this for good reason….. The State of Hawaii has a fund for you that all licensed contractors pay into called the “Contractor’s Recovery Fund”. The purpose of the fund is to provide reimbursement to a consumer who has suffered a financial loss as a result of a licensed electrical contractor who has engaged in fraudulent, deceptive or dishonest practices, or failed to perform.  Injured parties my collect funds to recover damages.  Any unlicensed person can not offer you this protection.

To get the results that you expect, it is essential that you put appropriate effort behind finding an electrician matched to the specific requirements of your job – do not simply trust someone that puts you at ease or wins your confidence.  If a licensed contractor is hired one item to look into is their complaint record with the Hawaii Board of Contractors. Here’s a link to check the status of a person’s record: Hawaii Professional and Vocational Licensing Search Whoever you may hire, they should always come with word-of-mouth recommendations or testimonials of their peers.

Call us to discuss your project, and our expertise.  Let’s talk about doing it right the first time.