Green Bay, Wisconsin, is more than its renowned football legacy. It is a lively, welcoming community offering the perfect blend of urban excitement and small-town charm. This city, located by the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan’s
Green Bay, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. Whether you're exploring the miles of scenic trails or engaging in waterfront activities, there's always something to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Culture thrives in this dynamic city. You can immerse yourself in local history at the Neville Public Museum or explore the creativity at the ArtGarage. The Farmer’s Market on Broadway is a culinary delight,
Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Green Bay,
Hello Green Bay, Wisconsin • Spring Issue |5
where the community gathers to celebrate local produce, music, and crafts. Green Bay’s cultural calendar is brimming with exciting events, including music festivals, art fairs, and community parades, ensuring there's always something happening.
The people of Green Bay are as warm and welcoming as the city itself. It's a community where neighbors become lifelong friends, and newcomers quickly find their place. With
excellent schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, Green Bay offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat. Come and experience the unique charm and spirit of Green Bay, where every day is an adventure waiting to happen.
Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Green Bay,
Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Green Bay, Wisconsin
Green Bay, Wisconsin, is more than its renowned football legacy. It is a lively, welcoming community offering the perfect blend of urban excitement and small-town charm. This city, located by the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan’s Green Bay, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. Whether you're exploring the miles of scenic trails or engaging in waterfront activities, there's always something to enjoy in the great outdoors.
Culture thrives in this dynamic city. You can immerse yourself in local history at the Neville Public Museum or explore the creativity at the ArtGarage. The Farmer’s Market on Broadway is a culinary delight, where the community gathers to celebrate local produce, music, and crafts. Green Bay’s cultural calendar is brimming with exciting events, including music festivals, art fairs, and community parades, ensuring there's always something happening.
The people of Green Bay are as warm and welcoming as the city itself. It's a community where neighbors become lifelong friends, and newcomers quickly find their place. With excellent schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community, Green Bay offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat. Come and experience the unique charm and spirit of Green Bay, where every day is an adventure waiting to happen.
Why Energy Bills Rise When HVAC Runs Too Hard
Many homeowners are surprised when their energy bills rise even though the thermostat has not been adjusted. The cause is often not the weather but an HVAC system that is working harder than it should. When a system is forced to run at full capacity more often than necessary, the result is higher costs
and less comfort. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward preventing wasted energy.Another problem is unbalanced airflow between rooms. If certain areas of the home never feel quite comfortable, the system may keep running in an effort to even out the temperature. This imbalance
6 | HelloGreen Bay, Wisconsin • Spring Issue
Why Energy Bills Rise When HVAC Runs Too Hard
Many homeowners are surprised when their energy bills rise even though the thermostat has not been adjusted. The cause is often not the weather but an HVAC system that is working harder than it should. When a system is forced to run at full capacity more often than necessary, the result is higher costs and less comfort. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward preventing wasted energy. Another problem is unbalanced airflow between rooms. If certain areas of the home never feel quite comfortable, the system may keep running in an effort to even out the temperature. This imbalance can come from leaks in the ductwork, poor insulation, or registers that are blocked by furniture. Instead of cooling or heating the entire home evenly, the system cycles longer than necessary, using more energy for the same result. Routine maintenance is equally important. Filters should be replaced or cleaned on schedule to prevent poor air flow. Belts, fans, and coils need to be inspected to ensure they are not worn or dirty. Skipping maintenance allows minor issues to turn into major inefficiencies. For example, a dirty evaporator coil cannot transfer heat properly, which forces the system to use more power. Something as simple as a neglected filter can increase energy use by up to fifteen percent. Equipment age also plays a role. Older units often run longer because they cannot match the efficiency of modern systems. While regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, no system is designed to last forever. A furnace or air conditioner that is more than fifteen years old may be near the end of its useful life. In these cases, replacement is often the most cost-effective choice, especially when energy bills continue to rise despite regular servicing. Thermostat settings can add another layer of stress. If the thermostat is placed in a drafty location, it may register temperatures incorrectly, causing the system to cycle on more often than it should. Programmable thermostats help prevent overuse by running only when the home is occupied, while smart thermostats add even more efficiency by learning household patterns and adjusting automatically. Home insulation also impacts HVAC performance. A poorly insulated home loses heat in the winter and gains it in the summer, forcing the system to work overtime. Adding insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and walls reduces the load on both heating and cooling units. Sealing gaps around windows and doors has a similar effect, helping the system maintain comfort without running continuously. When an HVAC system works harder than necessary, the result is higher bills, more wear on equipment, and less consistent comfort throughout the home. Homeowners often notice uneven temperatures from room to room, unusual noises from the ducts, or longer run times before the system shuts off. Regular duct cleaning removes built-up debris from the system and filter, allows air to move more freely, and reduces strain on HVAC components, helping the equipment run more efficiently. The good news is that most causes are preventable. A professional seasonal inspection ensures filters, coils, and fans are in good condition. Duct cleaning restores airflow and reduces strain on the system. Technicians can also test for leaks, measure airflow, and confirm that the system is operating within manufacturer guidelines. For older equipment, a technician can explain whether repair or replacement is the more practical option. Taking steps to improve efficiency has long-term benefits. A properly balanced and maintained system reduces energy use, lowers utility costs, and provides more reliable comfort. It also extends the lifespan of equipment, delaying the need for replacement. With regular attention, heating and cooling systems can deliver steady performance without the unnecessary stress that leads to higher bills and frequent repairs.
Brian Sinkler
can come from leaks in the ductwork, poor insulation, or registers that are blocked by furniture. Instead of cooling or heating the entire home evenly, the system cycles longer than necessary, using more energy for the same result.Routine maintenance is equally important. Filters should be replaced or cleaned on
schedule to prevent poor air flow. Belts, fans, and coils need to be inspected to ensure they are not worn or dirty. Skipping maintenance allows minor issues to turn into major inefficiencies. For example, a dirty evaporator coil cannot transfer heat properly, which forces the system to use more power. Something as simple as a neglected filter can increase energy use by up to fifteen percent.Equipment age also plays a role. Older units often run longer because they cannot match the efficiency of modern systems. While regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, no system is designed to last forever. A furnace or air conditioner...
When an HVAC system works harder than necessary, the result is higher bills, more wear on equipment, and less consistent comfort thr...
About the Author
Brian has been with the company since May 1, 1991. He began in residential sales and now leads commercial and design-build sales as president. He holds a degree in Industrial Engineering from UW–Stout and enjoys weightlifting, hunting, and spending time with family and friends.
HelloGreen Bay, Wisconsin • Spring Issue |7
Myth vs. Fact: Are Custom Cabinets Always More Expensive?
When remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, cabinetry decisions often come down to cost. Many homeowners assume custom cabinets always cost more than pre-made options, but this isn't necessarily the case.Custom cabinetry, unlike stock cabinets, is built specifically for your space and tailored to your
exact measurements, style, and needs. Because each piece is crafted individually, people tend to believe custom solutions automatically mean higher prices. However, the actual value of custom cabinetry extends beyond the initial price. It includes precision, superior craftsmanship, and the use of
8 | HelloGreen Bay, Wisconsin • Spring Issue
Myth vs. Fact: Are Custom Cabinets Always More Expensive?
When remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, cabinetry decisions often come down to cost. Many homeowners assume custom cabinets always cost more than pre-made options, but this isn't necessarily the case.
Custom cabinetry, unlike stock cabinets, is built specifically for your space and tailored to your exact measurements, style, and needs. Because each piece is crafted individually, people tend to believe custom solutions automatically mean higher prices. However, the actual value of custom cabinetry extends beyond the initial price. It includes precision, superior craftsmanship, and the use of high-quality materials, which contribute significantly to long-term durability and functionality.
At first glance, custom cabinets typically come with a higher price tag compared to stock cabinets. This initial difference is often due to the careful, detailed workmanship and better-quality materials involved. Yet, looking beyond initial costs, it's important to view cabinetry as a long-term investment. Custom cabinets can last for decades, frequently outlasting stock options due to their careful construction and the premium materials used. Conversely, stock cabinets might appear cheaper upfront, but their shorter lifespan often results in additional costs, including repairs or replacement within just a few years.
An advantage of choosing custom cabinetry lies in cost control and flexibility. Unlike stock cabinets, which have fixed prices, custom cabinets allow you to manage costs based on your selections. You can adjust wood types, hardware choices, or design complexity to better fit your budget. Collaborating closely with a skilled cabinet maker helps prioritize essential features, maximizing your budget effectively. Homeowners often find this flexibility surprising; a well-planned custom solution might offer better overall value, functionality, and durability compared to high-end stock cabinets.
Custom cabinetry also excels in utilizing available space efficiently. Standard stock cabinets rarely fit perfectly into every kitchen or bathroom, often resulting in wasted space or awkward gaps. Custom cabinetry solves this issue entirely, ensuring every inch is optimized. Efficient use of space eliminates the need for additional furniture or storage solutions elsewhere in the home, potentially saving money in the long term.
Additionally, cabinets built specifically for your space can significantly enhance daily functionality. When cabinetry fits your lifestyle, you'll experience noticeable improvements in convenience, whether you're cooking, entertaining, or simply enjoying time at home.
Another essential aspect of custom cabinetry is the superior quality of materials and craftsmanship. Custom cabinet makers typically select higher-grade wood, hardware, and finishes, ensuring each cabinet maintains its appearance and performance longer. Although these higher-quality materials initially increase the price, they often reduce ongoing expenses related to maintenance, refinishing, or replacement.
Furthermore, custom cabinets add tangible value to your home. High-quality cabinetry is an appealing feature for potential homebuyers, making your property more attractive on the market. Homes with custom cabinets often stand out, potentially increasing resale value.
The assumption that custom cabinets always cost more doesn't always align with reality. While custom cabinets may initially cost more, their long-term durability, tailored design, and efficient use of space often provide greater overall value.
When deciding between custom and stock cabinets, carefully evaluate your lifestyle, priorities, and budget. Working with an experienced cabinet maker can help ensure your investment adds both beauty and lasting value to your home.
JoEllen Wilinski
high-quality materials, which contribute significantly to long-term durability and functionality.At first glance, custom cabinets typically come with a higher price tag compared to stock cabinets. This initial difference is often due to the careful, detailed workmanship and better-quality materials involved. Yet,
looking beyond initial costs, it's important to view cabinetry as a long-term investment. Custom cabinets can last for decades, frequently outlasting stock options due to their careful construction and the premium materials used. Conversely, stock cabinets might appear cheaper upfront, but their shorter lifespan often results in additional costs, including repairs or replacement within just a few years.An advantage of choosing custom cabinetry lies in cost control and flexibility. Unlike stock cabinets, which have fixed prices, custom cabinets allow you to manage costs based on your selections. You can adjust wood types, hardware...
While custom cabinets may initially cost more, their long-term durability, tailored design, and efficient use of space often provide...
About the Author
JoEllen Wilinski is the Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Human Resources at Wilco Cabinet Makers, Inc. With a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls and certifications including CKD and WRID, she draws on professional training in kitchen design, Corian® fabrication, and Dale Carnegie leadership to shape both client experiences and corporate culture.
