Check your know-how on various homeownership related matters. See how many questions you can answer correctly. (The answers are listed below.)

1. Which cut lumber is thicker: a 2-inch by 4-inch board or a 2-inch by 6-inch board?
2. Which is thinner: a termite's waist or a flying ant's waist?
3. Which is colder: 30 degrees Celsius or 30 degrees Centigrade?
4. Which is typically hotter: the air supply temperature of a warm air furnace or the air supply temperature of a heat pump?
5. Which is longer: a six penny nail or a ten penny nail?
6. Which wood is denser: oak or pine?
7. Which will freeze first: hot or cold water?
8. Which produces more light: a 20-watt compact fluorescent bulb or a 60-watt incandescent bulb?
9. Which is lighter: natural gas or propane gas?

Here are the answers:
1. They are the same thickness.
2. A termite's waist is thicker (probably from eating your house).
3. Both these measurements indicate the same temperature, although the Centigrade scale was formally changed to Celsius in 1948.
4. A standard furnace delivers hot air in the 130-140 degrees F range while a typical heat pump's temperature range is 90-100 degrees F.
5. A six-penny nail is 2 inches long and a ten-penny nail is 3 inches long.
6. Oak wood is approximately 50% denser than pine wood.
7. While hot water will cool to a lower temperature faster than cold water, cold water will freeze first.
8. An energy efficient 20-watt CFL bulb can actually produce more light than a standard 75-watt incandescent bulb and is expected to last 10 times longer.
9. LP (liquid petroleum) gases, which include Propane, are heavier than natural gas. Since LP gases are heavier, they will accumulate at low points and pose a higher risk.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. Improve your Homeowner IQ by subscribing to the complimentary HouseMaster Homeowner Electronic Newsletter. This monthly how-to newsletter is full of household information and maintenance tips. It pays to be informed. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at HouseMaster.com.

This information is provided for general guidance purposes only. Neither HMA Franchise Systems, Inc. nor the local HouseMaster® franchise warrants its accuracy and assumes no liability related to its use. Contact the local franchise office and/or qualified specialists for advice pertinent to your specific house or circumstances.

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