s-trap: an older plumbing trap configuration, used before the advent of p-traps. The trap would drain water vertically, typically connecting to waste lines below the house. They are no longer allowed, as the configuration of the trap increases the possibility the trap water will siphon out, leaving an opening for sewer gases to enter the home.

septic tank: a (typically) underground tank where sewage is collected and septic tank decomposed by bacterial action, prior to discharge as effluent. Septic systems are typically installed in homes that do not have access to a municipal or community sewer disposal system. To learn more about septic systems, including how to keep them functioning properly, please visit the EPA’s Septic System …

service entrance: the point at which a utility (electricity, gas or water) connects to the home.

sewer gas: a mixture of gases produced by the decomposition of waste in the sewer system. These gases may include ammonia, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, methane, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide, among others, and are a mixture of toxic and nontoxic gases, some of which are flammable.

A structure that transmits light into the structure. A skylight is built into the roof, and can be constructed of a large panel-type structure or a small, plastic tube.

soffit: the underside of the area of the roof which overhangs the exterior wall of the house.

soffit vent: a static vent, located at the lowest point of the attic area (in the soffit), which allows for cooler (than attic) air to enter the attic area.

A device that is placed at the end of a gutter downspout to aid in diverting run-off water away from the foundation.

Spray foam insulation (SPF) is a type of insulation that is applied on site. It’s typically composed of two different chemicals which are heated, combined and sprayed directly onto the surface to be insulated. Properly installed, SPF is one of the best insulating materials that can be applied in a structure. In addition to its high R-value, SPF is also …

On the Consumer Products Safety Commission website (CPSC.gov) Schneider Electric issued a recall notice for approximately 1.4 million of their electrical panels due to their potential to cause a fire hazard. According to the recall notice, these panels were sold under the product names Square D QO Plug-on-Neutral Load Centers, and may also be labeled as Load Centers, Breaker Boxes, …