Central-air units use power even when off

Q Is it true that central air-conditioning units will continue to use electricity all winter long, even when they're not running?

A Yes, that's right. Central air conditioners have a heating element to keep the oil warm. It's not needed unless the air conditioner is operating. However, the heater doesn't go off when you change the thermostat from cool to heat.

To get it to stop operating, to stop pulling money out of your pocket, you need to turn the power off at the unit, or flip the circuit breaker to the unit.

Important: You must turn on the power to the central air conditioner at least 24 hours before using the air conditioner when summer comes around again.

Protect the pumpkins Q How do I keep squirrels from eating the pumpkins and gourds in my outdoor fall display?

A Play to the squirrel's keen sense of smell.

Spray repellents for squirrels are available at garden and hardware stores and on the Internet. Use them if you don't plan to use the pumpkin for food. Or make your own with petroleum jelly and hot pepper sauce or powder. A thin coat covering the pumpkin should do the trick.

Danger in gas fireplace Q Our son and his wife bought a home with two gas fireplaces (in the family room and living room). They have a toddler and are expecting another baby soon. I'm concerned about these fireplaces, which they plan to use to heat these rooms. Can you advise?

A Gas fireplaces can be hazardous for children. Hospitals have noticed an increase in the number of palm burns associated with them. The victims tend to be younger than 5. Typically, a toddler touches the glass out of curiosity or falls against it while learning to walk.

Because a child's skin is thinner, it tends to burn more quickly and deeper. Many times the burns aren't severe and will heal with conservative treatment. However, a significant number require more intensive therapy, including splinting or surgery to regain hand function.

The problem isn't any particular make or model, or every gas fireplace, for that matter. It's those where the design allows the doors to heat to burning temperature in mere minutes and to stay hot long after the unit is turned off.

To keep children safe around gas fireplaces:

• Create a barrier. Safety guards or gates can keep a child out of the room or a safe distance from the fireplace.

• Keep fireplace remote controls out of the reach of children.

• Be sure thermostat-controlled fireplace units are done cycling and completely cool before letting children near.

• Make everyone aware of the danger, including baby sitters and grandparents.