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How Does Outdoor Air Affect Your AC Unit?

AC Unit

One unfortunate aspect of life is that most of us have to contend with drastic changes in the external air. Temperatures sometimes get quite high and during the cold months temperatures plummet, with high humidity making the environment feel warmer or cooler than the thermometer claims. To help alleviate the problem, almost every commercial and residential building owns an AC unit. Air conditioning systems work efficiently to maintain the air within the room at comfortable levels.

What you may not know however is that heating ventilation and air conditioning systems use the fresh air from outside for providing your desired quality of air inside. This begs the question of how changes in outdoor air affect the functioning of the AC units. Here are some of the ways your AC unit is being impacted by outside conditions.

Outside Temperature

The AC unit is made of coils that pick up heat from the outside air, but have nowhere to get rid of it. Therefore, the temperature of the system increases gradually. A heat exchanger is, therefore, required to get rid of the extra heat. A high-temperature difference between the outside air and the refrigerant will affect the amount of heat transferred with the unit and the rate at which it is transferred. Even perfect systems decrease in efficiency with outside temperature rising about 2 degrees. This drop in efficiency is quite dramatic in the real world. You will notice that your air conditioner seems to be working harder as the outside temperature increases.

Poor Air Quality and Pollution

Many factors affect the quality of air we breathe. Pollen, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide are just but a few pollutants that affect us today. With all technological advancements today meant for improving the quality of our lives, it is unfortunate that air quality is not given due attention.

Diminished air quality is bad for everyone, but it can be particularly bad for the AC equipment. Particles of polluted air such as smoke and dust accumulate in the AC unit and these particles will hinder the operation of the AC unit. After some time, the efficiency of the unit is reduced. This is why it is always important to keep on top of making sure that the AC equipment is cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. Regular cleaning removes any such dust and particles that could collect with time.

Humidity in the External Air

Since one of the primary functions of the AC unit is to remove excess moisture from the air, the process can be made much more difficult when the external humidity is high. The efficiency of the AC unit is thus affected when we approach the warm weather months. A high amount of moisture in the air can also carry a larger amount of dust that settles in the unit’s fins and coils. When the humidity is high, the AC systems have to use more energy and work harder to keep the home cool. If you have an older and inefficient system, it may not be able to handle the job quite well. It may be time to consider an upgrade to a more modern solution.

Heat, humidity and air pollution can affect the AC unit. Long and irregular run times of the unit can also affect it significantly. Since your AC unit represents a significant investment, you will want to make sure that you protect it by scheduling appointments with certified technicians that can be found at www.bobheinmiller.com on a regular basis for cleaning, maintenance and inspection. You can also clean the unit yourself using a coil cleaner so as the system can be efficient in its operation. Removing debris and dirt allows the system to work more efficiently and will lead to lower utility bills.

The writer, Edrick Hypolite, is an Orlando resident who always strives to keep his home comfortable and keeps track of everything that could compromise that. If you wish to learn more about Edrick you can visit on Google+.

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5 Affordable Ways To Add Value To Your Home

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When you start thinking about selling your house, your thoughts will inevitably turn to the value of your home. Property value can be highly subjective, and dependant on the area you live in, the state of the property market, and of course the condition of your house itself. But if you want to give your home a few inexpensive fixes before inviting an estate agent round for a valuation, here are 5 affordable ways to increase the value of your house.

1. Revamp Key Rooms

If you are hoping to sell in the near future, you understandably don’t want to spend thousands of pounds on a new kitchen or bathroom. However as two of the most important rooms of the house, a few slight tweaks such as upgraded appliances and DIY improvements can freshen up the rooms for the viewings.

2. Make Space

Clutter can really impact the value of a property, visually reducing the amount of space available and making rooms look much smaller than they actually are. After years spent in your home, you’ll no doubt have at least one room that is full of ‘stuff’, so try to tackle this before you get it on the market, to improve your asking price and make visitors see the bigger picture.

3. Light and Airy

Even the largest and most impressive rooms of the house can look dark and enclosed if the lighting isn’t right. So expose those windows and let the light flood in, or where natural light is lacking a few lamps or high wattage bulbs can make all the difference. If the walls are looking a bit dull or dirty, a quick layer of neutral paint will brighten them back up.

4. Spruce Up the Exterior

The one photo that is guaranteed to be in the estate agent window, don’t be let down by the exterior when trying to sell your property. In the run up to putting your property on the market, focus on improving the kerb appeal of your house. Tidy up the garden and brighten it up with some flowers, clear the gutters, and give the windows and doors a lick of paint to have it looking top notch for visitors.

5. Depersonalise

Colourful walls and décor might be just right for you and your family, but don’t assume that everyone will be on the same page. First impressions count, so making your property as neutral as possible will help attract potential buyers.

You don’t need to spend a lot to make big improvements to the value of your house. And a key point to remember is that value isn’t just about the price of a property – it’s being able to sell it at that price too. So spend some time sprucing up the interior and exterior of your home before you take the next step to sell, and have a much better reception from the market when you do make the move.

This article is written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire. You can follow her on @KellyGGrassam. This article is written with helpful information from ADM Residential.

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4 Signs Your Stonework Needs Renovating

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Stonework rarely needs repointing and renovating, and properties can go decades without needing any major maintenance to the exterior walls if they have been skilfully constructed. However, it’s inevitably that eventually the constant barrage of sun, wind, rain and frost can damage your stonework. And if you spot signs of disrepair, it’s important not to ignore them, or you could face more serious problems later on. If you notice any of these signs, you should consider ringing a stone specialist as soon as possible to diagnose the issue and find a remedy.

1. Cracked Walls and Foundations

It’s understandable that most people panic if a crack appears in the wall of the house, but not all of these faults are so sinister. Especially for new builds, this can occur naturally over the first few years as the property settles into its foundations. However a second opinion is wise, as large cracks and particularly ones caused by swelling, shrinking or subsistence can have serious implications.

2. Damp Walls

Natural stone is porous, but problems of damp shouldn’t occur if stonework has been professional installed and sealed. If walls are damp, there could be a variety of causes for this. Failing to properly seal walls leaves the walls open to absorb moisture, which can become trapped between the pointing. However pointing itself can also cause these issues, as hard cement prevents the natural release of moisture, instead leaving it vulnerable to decay. Other causes of damp include drainpipes running onto walls and flooding.

3. Crumbling stone

The issue of trapped moisture where stonework is unable to breathe can cause more serious problems to the overall condition of your walls, such as crumbling. If your window surrounds or stonework are in such as poor state that it is crumbling, it is far better to get a stone mason specialist to completely repair the damaged area than to patch it up. Simply trying to treat the symptoms of the problem rather than the root cause itself is unwise; you will probably only delay and even increase expenses when the issue has worsened in a few years.

4. Vandalism

A sad but very common cause of stonework problems can be vandalism, as graffiti or intentional damage to walls, statues and natural stone can leave it looking tired and an eyesore. Addressing these issues yourself can be a challenge, as each type of natural stone is best suited to different remedies. However a professional will be able to prescribe the right treatment to renovate your stonework, leaving it looking as good as new.

Maintaining the condition of exterior walls, patios and cladding is crucial for the kerb appeal and value of any property. It can also ensure that problems are addressed quickly, by someone with the necessary skills and expertise do the job properly. So please don't bury your hand in the sand, don’t ignore any of these signs if they do arise – call an expert to get peace of mind and the appropriate solution.

Article written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, a Yorkshire lass who enjoys the great outdoors. She is a freelance copywriter who you can follow on Twitter @KellyGGrassam. This article was written with useful information from Henley Stone.

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Getting The Most From A Home Appraisal

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One of the most important parts of the refinancing process is the home appraisal. This is because the appraisal will set the stage as far as how much you will end up paying on your refinance. The appraisal is the official estimate of what your home is worth, so the object of the game is to get as high of a number as possible.

Researching

Getting as good an appraisal as possible begins with research, as this will help you to make an informed decision about the appraiser you choose. And this can be made much easier by doing some of your own research into what homes in your area have recently sold for. Ensure the homes you are comparing are similar to your own.

Once you've noted some homes, you can create a file. The file should include categories like the amenities each home is close to, the square footage of each home, the year each home was built, and the sale price of the home.

You will also likely come across homes in your area that were similar to your own, but ended up selling for less that you expect your home to sell for. However, this may have been due to unique circumstances, such as the owners being forced into foreclosure.

The benefits of doing your own research include providing an out-of-town appraiser with an accurate look at your local housing market.

Getting Clean

The next step is to take a good look around your home for anything that may need to be repaired. This could include items like stairs, windows or anything that could present a hazard. Chances are that your appraiser will notice these things as they do their walk through. And not attending to them before your appraisal can cost you big points on the final estimate of your home's value.

Along with ensuring any repairs that need to be made are completed is making sure your home is ready for an appraisal. This means making your home as presentable as possible. Although you may not need to put in as much effort as you might for an open house viewing, doing the dishes, putting any laundry away and ensuring the garbage has been taken out can all contribute to a positive impression.

Lay Of the Land

Did you know that you can increase your home's value by up to 15%, just by hiring a professional to update your landscaping? According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, that is a fact. Attractive landscaping adds curb appeal , which appraisers consider when figuring out how much your home is worth. Other affordable ways to improve the appearance of your home from the outside don't involve professional intervention. Even a new mailbox, or the addition of window boxes and porch planters can pretty up your property.

Being There

Experts recommend that when getting an appraisal done, the homeowner should always be present. There is no law which states that you can't be there when the appraisal is being conducted. As well, you can definitely inform the appraiser of any features in or around your home which may be unique, but which the appraiser may not see right away, such as special storage or larger-than-usual closet space.

However, experts warn against saying too much to an appraiser. Going for too much control may appear as though you're trying to do their job for them. And so if you offer your appraiser your file of researched area homes and are refused, try not to take it personally.

Aging Gracefully

Another aspect of your appraiser's job is to determine how well your home is aging. If you have taken good care of your home and made updates, your home value may be end up being higher than similar properties in your area. An example of a home that is not aging well could be one that was built only a decade ago, but is already showing signs of wear and tear via drywall cracks or a sinking foundation. Older homes are not immune, and can show their stress with features and details that are out of date, and therefore not major selling points.

Guest author Tony Donovan writes on mortgage-related topics. He recommends The Refi Guide, a site dedicated to helping consumers navigate the refinancing process.

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What Does A Stone Mason Do?

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Stone masonry is a historic profession, and one that for many evokes images of medieval men chiselling away at rocks to form little bricks hundreds of years ago. With the evolution of modern manufacturing methods and availability of products such as concrete and brick, you might imagine that stone masons are few and far between in the industry nowadays. However this traditional craft is actually as important as ever for building and construction, and has a range of roles from stone fitting to graffiti removal and stone cleaning.

Stone Masons for New Build

Just because many houses are built from bricks these days, doesn’t mean that stone masons are any less popular for the construction of homes. A bespoke option that offers superior quality to any property development, stone masons use a combination of modern and traditional building methods to create impressive residential and commercial properties. This could be using natural stone, or newer materials and methods such as glass reinforced concrete, which can be manufactured to mimic any stone and shaped with a seamless finish.

For a more affordable alternative to using natural stone for the entire property, stone cladding is becoming an increasingly well-known way to increase the kerb appeal of a home or building. Stonemasons can fit quality natural stone cladding to a property, creating a façade that boasts timeless appeal. As a result, cladding can significantly increase the value of a building, without costing the earth.

Restoration and Renovation

Stone masons also have an important role in maintaining period properties and stately homes that are in need of improvement, whether this be minor repairs or drastic renovation. By choosing an experienced stonemason, renovations, extensions and restoration can be done with seamless results that will be in-keeping with the original period of the property. From porticos to panelling and cornices, a specialist stonemason can really improve the value of these buildings and give them a new lease of life, whether your property is an old farmhouse or a Georgian townhouse.

Stone Cleaning and Graffiti Removal

Some stonework has been exposed to the elements for hundreds of years, and over time this can leave it stained, dull and lifeless. Stone cleaning is a professional service that removes dirt and restores natural stone to its original appearance, making a huge difference to the aesthetic value of a property. However vandalism also poses a problem to many homeowners and business owners, especially in urban areas. That’s why many stone masons also offer graffiti removal services, to remove street art and restore stonework to its former appearance.

From new builds to period properties, and a huge variety of commercial needs, stone masonry offers a professional range of services that makes it a relevant and reliable choice for property developments, home improvements, and restoration. Preserving the timeless quality of stonework for the modern age, stonemasons offer a premium finish for any building project that makes their craft a valuable one.

Now did you know all that?

Article written by Kelly Gimour-Grassam, a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire who loves the great outdoors and eating out. This article is written with useful information from Henley Stone. You can follow Kelly on Twitter @KellyGGrassam.

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Custom Chandeliers - How To Have The Right Chandeliers Made For Your Home

Custom Chandeliers

Chandeliers used to be found only in the living rooms of spacious mansions and grand hotel lobbies and function rooms. Nowadays, though, they can be installed in any home, even yours. Indeed, you can choose from many different types and styles of chandeliers and if you cannot find what you're looking for or don't want to go through the process of having to browse through various catalogues, you can always have a custom chandelier made, especially if you have an innovative modern chandelier in mind.

Indeed, custom chandeliers are offered by many lighting companies. If you opt for these, though, you will be asked a lot of questions to ensure that the finished product meets your exact specifications, so you should have a clear idea of what you need.

For one, you should know the right chandelier size that you require. Keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven inches from the floor so you have to measure the height of the room from the floor to the ceiling. As for the diameter, you can simply give the area of the room to the company so they can calculate it for you. Remember that a chandelier easily draws attention so if it is too large or too small, it is a mistake people will easily notice, making the entire room less attractive.

Contemporary Chandelier Light

Once the size has been decided, it is time to describe the style of the custom chandelier that you want, which is the more difficult part. First, you have to find out if you want a traditional chandelier, a transitional one or a modern chandelier. A traditional chandelier is usually one with tiers and has a frame usually made of either antique brass or polished brass with the bulbs attached to the frame. With modern chandeliers, however, the design is more varied and minimalist. Aside from these three design types, you can also choose from other more specific chandelier designs, such as Art Deco, Rustic, Asian, Renaissance or even Tropical. There are also dozens of finishes available.

In order to choose the right style, you have to consider the style of the rest of the room, so that the chandelier will complement it rather than go against it. If you can't pinpoint the style of the room, you can just choose one element of it that stands out and use that as the basis for creating the design of your custom chandelier. If you are good at drawing, you can sketch the design of the chandelier you want and then show this to the lighting company to serve as a guide.

In some cases, you can also specify what bulbs you want the custom chandeliers to use so you should take advantage of this option. The bulbs can be exposed or enclosed in spheres or shades and they can be fluorescent, incandescent, halogen, xenon and even LED. They can also be colored or have dimming capacities to create a dramatic effect.

By keeping all these in mind, you can truly have a chandelier that is custom made to meet your needs. It will be one of a kind, as well, so when people ask you where you got it, which they surely will, you can just smile and say that there is no other like it.

Sarah Brighley is a full-time mom and an avid blogger of home improvement ideas. She loves to share the best tips in interior design and furniture.

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How To Become A Successful Property Developer

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Property development is a popular and ever expanding field, with more and more people giving up their day jobs to follow their dreams, with an opportunity chance to watch your hard work turn into reality and ultimately make serious profits. However balancing cost, quality and a reasonable time frame is important if you are going to avoid your dream turning into a nightmare, so following these simple rules will ensure that your project comes off without a hitch.

Build the Vision

Before you buy any land or property, or even embark upon the planning stages, every property developer should have a clear idea of their goals and why exactly they are choosing a specific plot. Are you renovating a period property to its former glory, or building a modern home in a kid-friendly area that’s perfect for families? Remember that at the end of the day you need to be able to sell your house, so avoid indulging in personal taste and have a specific market for your development.

Plan and Budget

It seems like an obvious thing to say, but you would be amazed at how many people underestimate costs and time frames in their enthusiasm to get started on a project. One of the most important things that can make or break a property developer is planning, and failure to take account for every expense, delay and potential problem might give you a nasty shock later down the line.

Budget your project and leave a contingency fund in case of emergency, and that way you will already have factored in any unexpected costs in case they do arise. Make sure that you have all of the necessary planning permission, and where possible get quotes before you start for jobs such as stonework, scaffolding, architecture and electricity work. Have a clear vision of what you want, and know exactly what needs to happen to achieve it.

Outsource to Reputable Traders

They say that if you want something doing, do it yourself. But when it comes to property development, outsourcing is essential. However it’s also the area where you’re most likely to slip up if you don’t do your research. Whether you’re looking for a stone mason, electrician, plumber or other professional, make sure that you choose a reputable company with the necessary accreditation, a sound portfolio, and a few good references before you go ahead. Getting the best quote and the most convenient schedule might seem like a priority, but if the end result isn’t up to scratch then it could compromise your whole development.

The success of a property developer doesn’t just depend solely on hard work and determination. Of course, planning, budgeting and a vision is key, but you also need to remember that you are reliant on the market wanting to buy your house. And the construction workers who will make it happen. However if you keep your mind on the end goal and an eye on quality workmanship, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t succeed.

Article written by freelance copywriter Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, who loves fine food in interesting places. Follow her on Twitter at @KellyGGrassam. This article was written with helpful information from Henley Stone.

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Winter Is Coming: Plumbing Edition

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As winter approaches each year, there are a lot of things to look forward to. The holiday season brings fun with family and friends, and you'll have the chance to make new memories with the people you love the most. Whether you love skiing and snowboarding or you can't wait to have a snowball fight with your kids, you don't have to wait much longer since winter is coming!

However, winter also comes with a specific set of challenges. Snow and cold weather bring plenty of opportunities for fun, but you also need to make sure that the plumbing in your home is ready before the cold weather rolls in. Frozen pipes can burst and cause a tremendous amount of damage, but you can reduce your risk by taking the following precautions.

Head Outdoors

You can start the process of winterizing your plumbing by heading outside. Disconnect all of your exterior hoses, and drain them before you put them away for the winter. If you leave your pipes attached during the winter, they can freeze with water still inside them. This could cause your exterior faucets and pipes to burst. It's best to store your hoses inside to keep them from freezing. If possible, shut off your outside faucets completely for the winter so they won't be accidentally turned on.

Use a piece of cardboard or some extra insulation to protect your exterior water meter from freezing. Finally, make sure that your sprinkler system is turned off, and drain any water that is currently in the system.

Seal Cracks

Next, you can protect your pipes by carefully checking for any cracks or small openings near your doors and windows. Cold wind can enter your house through these areas, and this increases your risk of exposed pipes freezing and causing big problems. Most small issues can be corrected with a little caulk or insulation.

Add Insulation

Adding insulation is one of the most important things you can do to protect your plumbing system this winter. You need to be especially careful to insulate pipes that are located in areas that are not heated, such as your attic or basement. Pick up pipe insulation material from almost any hardware or home improvement store, and simply use this insulation to wrap your pipes.

In addition, it's important to insulate any of your outside walls that contain water pipes. You can also keep your home at a more steady and comfortable temperature by closing off any crawl spaces or other open areas.

Stay Prepared

Even after you've prepared your plumbing for winter, it's important to stay prepared for cold weather. Don't turn off your heat when temperatures are expected to be below freezing, even if you are going out of town. If you do need to travel, shut off the main water valve to reduce the risk of a plumbing emergency.

If your pipes have frozen in the past, you can keep the water moving by allowing a small amount of cold water to continue to flow through the pipes when the weather is extremely chilly.

By taking a small amount of time to prepare now, you can avoid many of the most common plumbing problems this winter. This means you'll get to spend more time enjoying the season and less time dealing with plumbing issues!

Charlie Teschner started MESA Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling in 1982. Charlie has a journeyman and master plumber’s license. He was raised with a strong work ethic and he now applies those values to tasks such as Boulder plumbing repair.

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Tell-Tale Signs You Need To Get An AC Repair Specialist

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Your central air units are like any complex mechanical system. If you have the basic knowledge of how to see their symptoms, you can save yourself big dollars on major repairs by proactively maintaining your system. Monitor the performance of your system and you will know when it is time to call a specialist such as the professionals at Facemyer Air Conditioning and Heating.

Cycles

Air conditioning systems work to remove humidity from the air and thereby bringing the temperature down. When you set the thermostat to a particular temperature setting, it will set a cyclic rate for your system to cycle on and off for a specific duration of time. The longer the cycle, the more humidity is being removed from the air. In converse, the shorter the cycle, the less humidity removed from the air and the higher the temperature remains. Remember, temperature is a measure of how rapidly particles move about in the air. By removing particles, i.e. water, from the air, the air feels cooler. A tell-tale symptom that there is something wrong within the ac unit is a noticeably short or long cycle. If the AC system has to work too hard to remove humidity, there is a reason for it. The first step for you as a homeowner is to check your air filter and make sure it is not in need of replacement. If the filter is fine and there doesn’t appear to be excess water laying in the filter area of the central air unit, it is time to call your AC specialist. If there does appear to be water laying in the filter area, you will need to check the drain and make sure it is not clogged, which may also require a repair specialist if you are not comfortable with that level of maintenance.

If your unit cycles for extended periods of time and struggles to get the temperature down, which is one of the most common problems, it is vital to get your technician on site. Aside from filter or drain problems, longer cycle rates can be an indicator of a more severe problem. If your unit is getting low on refrigerant, but is not low enough to kick on the failsafe sensors, it will cause your system to cycle longer. Think of it like your car. If your car is low on oil it will still run, but if it loses too much oil it can cause the motor to blow. On newer cars, there are sensors that will shut your car down in the event of a major loss of oil pressure. On older cars, you hear a loud noise and the motor has just experienced major failure. Your ac systems work in the exact same way. If your unit is older or has a pressure sensor that is malfunctioning in the worst way possible, you can cause severe damage that will multiply the costs of repairs. Not only will you have to purchase more parts, but you are more than likely going to have to wait days for them to come in and pay much more in labor costs. Being proactive isn’t easy, but it is certainly cost effective. When the ac coolant (Freon) gets low from a hole in the suction side of the system, it will pull in outside air or dirt and contaminate the entire system. Replacing a compressor, the condenser, and vacuuming the lines are worst case scenario in terms of cost of repair for the outside unit.

Noise

Sometimes the need to call a technician to your home is obvious. There is nothing like a loud shrieking noise to say, “hey, I need some attention over here!” Fortunately, noises in ac units are not typically expensive noises if you address them quickly. To begin your assessment of the situation, follow your ears! If the noise is outside of your home, there are two likely culprits. Best case scenario, it is the fan on top of the unit with some sort of debris that is rattling. If you hear a steady hum and the fan is not moving, call your ac technician. There are several electrical issues that can cause engagement failure of the fan. On the other hand, if you hear a noise in the outside unit and the noise is not coming from the fan, the only other moving part is the compressor. Hopefully, you have a clutch assembly that can be replaced without replacing the compressor. There is a possibility that they must be replaced as a unit and it is also possible there is a problem with the compressor itself. In either case, if you hear a noise in the outside unit and it is not the fan, call your tech immediately.

If you hear a noise in your central air unit, most often located in the garage or a closet, there is a fan assembly that pushes the air through the duct system in the house. This noise may travel through the house and be audible in the vent system in every room. Do not be fooled into buying a completely new central air system over a noisy fan. Deal with a reputable air conditioning repair company that will not try to take your money at every turn. The fan assemblies can be replaced in most cases without replacing the entire unit, especially on newer units. Mobile homes and specialty systems normally make up the exceptions to this rule. Noise problems are typically one of the best problems to have to deal with. They are easy to troubleshoot and can normally be repaired quickly.

Miscellaneous

There are a number of indicators showing you that it is time to call your ac specialist. If your thermostat has lost power or does not reflect the actual temperature of the room, it needs attention. If you smell electricity or other odd smells in the ventilation systems it may be a good clue, a precursor to a larger problem to come. It is a good idea to inspect your home annually. Make a checklist of items that you can personally inspect and make sure they are in good working order. For a system like central air cooling and heating, doing a general walk through every quarter is not a bad idea or doing a spot check when you change the filters monthly. You can visually inspect for any type of damage that may result from animals, kids, weather, or general wear and tear. Keep your eyes and ears open for anything that looks like it is in need of further inspection.

As the ancient proverb goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” In trying economic times, it is even more critical to squash little problems before they become larger ones. The AC system in your home is not like a broken window or garage door. It is going to effect the immediate needs and attitudes of the people you live with and life can get very miserable. While it is not always feasible to fix and know everything yourself, it is always prudent to plan for problems. Give yourself the opportunity to get ahead of the game by being proactively engaged in the maintenance of your home and especially your ac system. Establish a relationship with a local ac repair company that you can trust. The smallest amount of effort will result in the largest payoff. When you can trust your repair technician and learn how to listen to your system when it signals problems to you, the whole experience will be less traumatic for your wallet and your standard of living.

Ray Donato, the author, does everything he can to keep his home safe and comfortable, but understands there are things he can't always do himself, and so tries to remember when he needs to call in an expert. If you wish to learn more about Ray you can visit Google+.

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Steps To Keeping Your AC Unit In Tip Top Shape

Steps To Keeping Your AC Unit In Tip Top Shape

Owning a home is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences, and highlights the degree of a person’s stability in the community. The owning of a home, while extremely satisfying, requires a vested and acute devotion of attention by the home owner, especially into the air conditioning unit. There are several things that both a new and seasoned home owner can do to keep their units in excellent operating condition.

Know Your System

The competitive fair market economy of the United States has created an environment that fosters technological advancement that is unmatched in the world. The product market is always advancing, bringing new and improved products that achieve higher standards of performance regularly. The home owner needs to make a purposeful effort to identify their specific system in in order to take care of it properly.

The first step to care and maintenance of your air conditioning system is to locate or obtain the manuals for your system. There should be at least two, depending on the type of system you have. If your central air has a design that incorporates the entire system into one unit in one location, it is possible to have one book that covers all of the maintenance required. A lot of homes will have a unit outside of the home that removes the moisture from the air and a system located inside the home that will force the air throughout the home through the duct system. It is possible and rather likely that you will be provided with two manuals in this type of setup. There is no substitute for first hand source information created by the manufacturer that identifies the required regular maintenance for your system. Read the manual and look for a checklist of monthly, quarterly, and annual maintenance checks that need to be executed for the preservation of your system’s operational health. Get familiar with the components of your AC system, especially the air filter system, the external unit, and the internal central air unit. It is not necessary to have a technical troubleshooting education to do the regular maintenance.

The Basics

Once you know where the basic components of your system are, the next step is to identify the maintenance operations you can perform yourself. Recognize immediately that safety is going to have to take a high priority concern. Without professional licensing and training, you need to be careful to follow the instructions in your manual. The first step is to always turn off any electric at the power panel of the unit and make sure it is powered down. Once the unit is powered down, depending on the maintenance you are performing, you are able to proceed carefully.

The most basic task in routine maintenance is to change your air filter. A clogged air filter will drastically impact your system’s performance. There are several types of filters on the market. Some filters are disposable and must be replaced, while other ones can be cleaned and reinstalled. If you have a serviceable air filter, then you must make sure it is completely dry before you put it back in place.

Another routine maintenance check commonly included in a biannual inspection is to make sure the AC drain line is clear of debris and flow is unrestricted. When water builds up in the drain system, moisture circulates through the blower assembly and renders your AC system ineffective. Moisture in the system will also cause component damage in the form of rust and can cause more expensive repairs. While you have the power off and the filter out, it is a good time to clean any dirt or pooled water in the drain pan.

For the more confident homeowner, there are a few other steps to take for regular maintenance. Again, with the power off, inspect your coolant unit. There is an item that looks similar to a radiator in your car, called a condenser. You may have to remove a cover to get to it, but it should be inspected for debris. As water and dirt circulate in the external unit due to its own operation or inclement weather conditions, the fins of the unit may become clogged and restrict air flow. The fins are very delicate and require the utmost care when performing any level of maintenance. There is a tool called a comb that literally looks something like a comb that can be used to protect the fins while you comb out the dirt. It is a good idea to use some sort of softening agent or spray to try and loosen the dirt beforehand and perhaps eliminate the need to use a comb altogether. The risks of damage are severely mitigated when you clean your unit regularly because it prevents significant build up that will require more direct and intense cleaning methods.

One of the last remaining maintenance checks that a homeowner can execute is to visually inspect the duct work in the attic or under the floor of the home, depending on how your home was constructed. If there is a disconnected duct or breach in the airway, the conditioned air will be contaminated and reduce the effectiveness of the AC production. Some rooms may be cooler than others and there may be smells or dirt inside of those rooms coming through the vents.

Third Party Maintenance

During routine maintenance, the biggest risk to the homeowner is possible damage to the fins of the condenser. It is a good idea to delegate that responsibility to a HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) technician who is familiar with the tools and knows the delicate nature of the condenser to not damage it during maintenance. Air conditioning is complex and poses the risk of bodily harm and property damage to the uninitiated. There are several issues that require the paid services of a professional, such as those at bobheinmiller.com, to keep your unit in tip top shape.

Only licensed and certified professionals can purchase Freon in any real quantity. AC units require exact amounts of refrigerant that must be installed with the proper tools and techniques. There is usually no dipstick to check the level of the refrigerant and it must be checked with gauges for proper readings. Keeping the unit at the correct levels of refrigerant will prevent more severe issues to the pump and keep the air cooling operation efficient.

Air conditioning repair companies will normally offer an annual inspection to look over the entire system for nominal charges. Establishing a relationship with AC companies and performing proactive checks will help prevent larger issues and keep major repair costs down. The homeowner that fixes a problem only with a major repair usually discovers they have an even bigger list of things that need repairs, unlike the homeowner that performs regular maintenance. Keeping your unit in top shape does not have to be an intimidating process, it can be one more part of homeownership that makes the house into your home.

The author, Ray Donato, is a home improvement guru who is constantly working around the house in his spare time to make sure everything runs perfectly. If you're interested in learning more about Ray you can visit Google+.

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How Often Should You Change The Water In Your Hot Tub?

How Often Should You Change The Water In Your Hot Tub?

Owning a hot tub comes with some important maintenance requirements in order to keep it running in good condition for as long as possible. One of the most important maintenance requirements is changing the water in your tub at the right time in order to avoid damage to key systems and a build-up of chemicals. Proper water care is essential to enjoying your hot tub for years to come!

As a general rule, it’s a good idea to drain your hot tub at least once every 3-4 months. Any less frequently and you may have difficulty maintaining your water chemistry at the appropriate levels. Some hot tub owners will end up spending lots of extra money and time fighting with their hot tubs because they neglect to have a proper draining routine.

Adding chemicals to spa water is a necessity, but will eventually cause particle build-up and cloudiness in the water. This can be monitored using a PPM indicator or a test strip. The key to crystal clear water is using fresh water to fill your tub, then using the right sanitizer in the proper amount along with an oxidizing shock treatment. If these chemical levels are not maintained, you will experience water quality issues and the most common issue is cloudiness which will accumulate over a few months. If you fill your spa with fresh water and it becomes cloudy in just a couple of weeks, something is wrong.

Troubleshooting

If you are encountering problems with your spa, don’t despair! There are many options available for sanitizing your hot tub and no single sanitizer will be perfect for every situation. Try out a few different ones to see which one works best for your setup. Be sure to stay on top of your cleaning schedule as most problems occur when cleaning and draining isn’t performed on time. While this process can be a pain, it will be less of a pain in the long run by preventing complications and problems with your spa. It will also keep your spa in good condition for longer by preventing premature rusting or damage to the inner workings.

Another common cause of water problems in a spa is the filter. Be sure to pull it out once a month and use specially designed filter cleaning products to make sure you get is as clean as possible every time. It is often a good practice to purchase a second filter so that you can easily swap them out when one gets dirty. That way you can clean the filter when you have time and keep it in storage, making the switch much easier when it comes time.

Usage and Frequency of Draining

It is important to realize that the more often you use your spa – and the more people in it at each use – will have a large impact on how often it will need chemicals added and thus how often it will need to be drained and cleaned. If you use the spa 2 or 3 times a week, you should be safe with draining it approximately every 4 months. But if you use your spa almost daily and have more people in it each time, you will need to do drain it whenever it gets significantly cloudy which may occur more frequently. Keeping your spa covers on, when the spa is not in use will also help reduce the rate of draining the spa.

Being a home renovator gives me a great satisfaction. The happiness that you bring into someone’s life, just through your work, can’t be expressed in words. I have been in the home improvement industry since quite a long time and have never felt my work anything other than interesting. I consider being a part in bringing someone’s dream come true, the greatest happiness and virtue. – John Medina

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How To Remove A Cactus

How To Remove A Cactus

When you have unwanted cactus on your property, removing them is not as easy as you would think. Cactus are very common in North America, currently there are well over 2,000 species growing in abundance. The reason they can tolerate harsh weather conditions is because of their thick and waxy stem, allowing the cacti to survive even the harshest of drought conditions. Many of these plants are not desired because they reproduce at a breakneck speed, and can be quite dangerous if your children or pets come in contact with them. The removal process may seem time-consuming and challenging, but if you do not take the appropriate steps the cactus will simply grow back and spread. Here are the appropriate techniques on how to remove a cactus from your property.

Be sure that you are always wearing thick gloves when working around a cactus plant. The spiny needles of cacti will get under your skin easily, causing you extreme discomfort. In addition to gloves, wear a long sleeve shirt and pants, and boots that cover your ankles. To provide yourself some additional protection, cover the cactus with a large blanket or cloth.

Depending on the size of the cactus that you want to remove, you can either use an axe or chainsaw to chop it down. Make sure that you cut the cactus into small pieces, then place every piece into a thick and strong cardboard box for disposal. If any pieces of the cacti remain on the ground, they can easily begin to grow again over time. As you cut a piece int a small chunk, drop it in the box to avoid it from growing again.

With the majority of the cactus cut down and into small pieces, now you have to focus on the root. The root can travel in any direction, so dig a few inches into the soil with your shovel until you have located the main part of the root. Take your axe and chop all the way through the root and then chop up the part of the cactus that you remove from the ground. Discard the pieces again with the others.

With the majority of the cactus gone, try to dig up as much of that root as you can. It might travel several feet in a horizontal path, so carefully follow it until you are confident you have reached the end. Always be aware of your surroundings because many spines on the ground have the ability to penetrate your boots. Chop up the remaining root and discard in the cardboard box.

During the removal of the cactus, if you do find any spines in your gloves or clothing, use a pair of tweezers and your magnifying glass to remove them and place them inside the cardboard box. The spines can easily tear through a plastic trash bag, so always discard the cactus and spines in a thick cardboard box for safety reasons. This is a very tenacious plant, and if you left even the slightest bit of the plant behind, it will regrow. If you see the plant return, simple repeat this process until you are successful.

Because of the dangers involved with handling this plant, it is advised you reach out to the professionals in your town who can remove the cactus quickly and safely the first time. If you have several cacti on the property, the professionals will make short work of the process.

Scottsdale Tree Trimmers is a Scottsdale, AZ-based tree trimming and removal division of American Tree Masters.

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The Benefits Of Choosing GRC In Construction

The Benefits Of Choosing GRC In Construction

Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) is a versatile and increasingly popular building material with a wide range of uses. Renowned for fantastic cost-saving and eco-friendly qualities that set it apart from traditional building materials such as pre-cast stone, more and more people are choosing this alternative for their planning and building works.

Lightweight yet sturdy, malleable yet durable, there are a variety of reasons why you should choose GRC for your next domestic or commercial building project. But to help you get to grips with the reasons behind using glass reinforced concrete instead of other materials, let’s take a look at some of the main benefits and features.

Lightweight But Durable

Weighing an impressive 80% less than pre-cast concrete, it’s easy to see why GRC is so popular in the construction industry. However the process of manufacturing this material ensures that its lightweight nature doesn’t compromise on durability. By spraying resistant glass fibres into the cement mix, the process serves to reinforce the material with rustproof, sturdy fibres to make it a long-lasting solution for any construction needs. Plus, by offering a lighter-weight building material it makes the construction of walls, foundations, panels and cladding much easier and quicker, allowing a more rapid construction process with impressive results.

Versatile and Malleable

One of the major benefits of using GRC is its versatility to mould it into any shape or size, and even alter the colour and texture where required. In fact, it can be manufactured to replicate almost all types of natural stone. For unique and grand design projects, it is therefore a flexible choice of building material that expands the horizons of architects and stonemasons; it gives specialists far more potential to be creative in construction than is usually possible with pre-cast concrete. As such, its uses are diverse from cladding to bespoke carved stonework and much more. When completed by a specialist glass reinforced concrete contractor, the results are seamless and durable.

Eco-Friendly Building Solution

Several factors combine together to make GRC a more environmentally friendly building solution than using traditional concrete and natural stone. Whilst the latter is inevitably a limited (and therefore much more costly) resource, concrete production contributes a huge amount to global carbon emissions. The concrete composition of glass reinforced concrete is much lower, and on top of the lower emissions in production, the product’s lightweight quality ensures that transport and construction emissions are lower too. As such, it is widely recognised at the building material of the future, making it popular for use in commercial, public and domestic projects alike.

Choosing the materials for your building project, however big or small, is a crucial one that can impact the cost, time scale and even feasibility of your designs. As a lightweight, affordable, and long-lasting material that can look equally impressive as natural stone or any other alternative, it’s no wonder that GRC is growing to be the leading product for manufacturers, architects and construction companies around the world.

Article written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam who is a Yorkshire lass who loves travelling combined with the eating of fine food. Kelly had helpful info from Henley Stone.

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Best Places To Go For Instruction On Do-It-Yourself AC Maintenance

installation AC

Tightening the monetary belt is something everyone is partaking in given the instability of the economic climate. Saving money when possible provides more opportunities for individuals to put cash away for a rainy day or invest in the future.

Some of the best ways to save money are home improvement projects, home maintenance projects, and personal lawn care. If you are a homeowner, there are many chores that can be done to lower your overall maintenance costs. Probably the most expensive of these ventures is your air conditioning unit.

Solving your own A/C problems may save you a ton of money, but if not done properly, could end up doing more harm than good. With technology and internet communication, the access to accurate knowledge is endless – here are five sources that are reliable for DIY AC maintenance.

5 Sources for DIY AC Maintenance

YouTube – Prior to YouTube and self-help videos displayed by users on the site, most AC units scared the average person because of the complexity of components. DIY repairers would have to read a paper manual 30 pages long just to get started, without even seeing the system prior to attempting work on it. YouTube has changed everything for the average DIY person because it provides visual guides and simple interpretations for many maintenance and home improvement projects. Some video posters even create channels geared towards repairing equipment or maintaining home appliances. When you are trying to understand, learn, and apply a series of steps, visual representation is usually the best route for efficient results. Just type in: DIY AC Maintenance, along with your AC unit specs, and you’ll be surprised what you can find.

Quora.com – This is a relatively new informational search engine that incorporates many aspects of specific knowledge, not just AC maintenance. In fact, Quora.com will help you answer just about any question in the world, specifically questions involving professional or modern social problems. Just post your question, follow various professionals, or browse different categories. You’ll find enough information to get you started, although most of that information will not be visual.

Visit Manufacturer’s Website – Sometimes the best way to accomplish a task is to gather information from the foundational source. Rather than searching all over the internet for various forums and chat rooms related to AC maintenance (your model/make specifically), it may serve you better just to visit the manufacturer's website. Most manufacturers’ these days provide contact information for contractors, handymen, and other various installers to better assist proper usage of the product. From the installation to repairs, you’ll be able to find a phone number for help during DIY maintenance.

Discussion Boards & Chat Rooms – Although this is not my favored option, as most information provided through these sources is unverifiable, there are a few spots where you can find answers. Quora.com is essentially a blog or discussion board, but sometimes quick answers are hard to find. By just typing your model/make in the google search bar with a phrase like, “How to maintain [your model/make goes here],” you’ll be amazed the amount of information comes up.

EnergyStar – I could not complete this list without talking about EnergyStar. This government-funded appliance certification house is one of the best resources for increasing efficiencies throughout your home. From your refrigerator to your A/C unit, EnergyStar is an excellent secondary resource to have in any DIY project – specifically projects involving maintenance. If maintenance is not done properly, the power output will be affected, causing energy bills to skyrocket each month.

Matthew Hall is a freelance writer and do-it-yourself enthusiast who is always striving to keep up on home maintenance. However, he can't do everything himself, to resolve AC problems he's not qualified to handle he turns to Facemyer AC. You can learn more about Matthew by visiting on Google+.

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The Perfect Loft Conversion: 5 Things You Need To Think About Before You Start Building

loft conversion

There are many reasons a family or landlord will consider converting a loft. For a growing family, the space beneath the roof is a great area to create an extra bedroom, den or office. For landlords, loft conversions can generate a huge amount of revenue in small properties, communal rentals and student digs.

But there are a number of things you need to consider before you can start dreaming about furnishings, wall colour and a skylight view of the stars.

Here are 5 things you need to consider.

Planning permission

The horror story for any new build or extension project is to add the last, final cushion or finish painting the last wall only to find that all your hard work has to be torn down as you haven't gained the right planning permission.

Fortunately, not all houses require planning permission for internal changes, and your local planning office will tell you if you even need consent in the first place. The main problem on most occasions won't be the council but your neighbours. Let them know far in advance that you are planning a small extension and they may hear some building work for a couple of weeks.

If you think your neighbours may object to this, sweeten the prospect with a muffin basket or bottle of wine!

Leaks and damp

Hot summers, stormy weather and wintry showers can take its toll on your roof, which is an issue even when you are just storing old books and childhood toys in the loft. But if you are converting the attic space into a liveable zone, a small crack in the slate and roof tiles can result in leaks, slow damp and a chilly breeze on windy nights.

Inspect your roof on the inside and also the outside to see if there is any noticeable damage. Repairing slate tiles is easy enough and requires no more than a hammer and copper nails, but is well worth the effort.

Will you need extra storage?

Our lofts are typically where we dump the junk we cant bring ourselves to throw away but don't know what to do with. You won't want this clutter taking up space in the new room you are planning so think about where this stuff will go.

If you have a shed, garage or other external storage then no problem. Other solutions are building a storage wall in your new conversion where you can keep your possessions out of sight behind a stud wall with door access. Otherwise call your local skip company or host a garage sale!

Rising heat and uncomfortable nights sleep

In the winter, your attic conversion will be the cosiest room in the house. In the summer months however the temperature in warmer countries could reach unbearable levels, especially if you haven't considered proper ventilation.

For fire safety and ventilation reasons you will want a skylight or other small window to help provide fresh air and natural light. Another tip is to add insulation between the floorboards so that the heat rising from the rest of the house doesn't escape into the loft, keeping the new bedroom or study cool in summer and the rest of the house warm in winter.

Space planning

However excited you get about the prospect of a new room and your loft conversion, you need to plan. What you may find in the planning stage is that there really isn't any room for a loft conversion – not in the loft itself but on the landing below.

Easy access to your new attic room means you will need to install stairs, but finding room in the hallway below to accommodate for an extra floor may be a struggle.

You can always divvy up the space, move bedroom walls slightly to one side and create the space, but this will all massively increase the cost of the conversion and need to be thought about well ahead of time.

Written by Arthur Hamilton, frequent blogger and DIY expert.

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5 Tips For Restoring Old Properties

5 Tips For Restoring Old Properties

Property restoration can be an exciting project and a profitable investment. With so many derelict or devalued properties throughout the UK, as well as the ever-improving property market, it’s never been a better time to seek out a restoration project. Whilst many people have gained experience and skills in renovating buildings, it’s essential to understand the unique features, qualities and problems that make period properties a slightly different ball game. So here are 5 top tips to ensure that you don’t take on more than you can handle, and that your project is a successful one.

1. Respect the Roots

When renovating an old property you must stay true to the period of the building and its individual characteristics. Try to do a little research on the background and dating of the property, so that you can strive to restore it to its former glory and make decisions that are in-keeping with the building.

2. Listed? Tread Carefully

If the property in question is a listed one, tread very carefully before committing to buy. Some buildings are sold with planning permission, but this isn’t a blanket approval for any construction or renovation works – often such consent is very specific to certain improvements and changes. It can be difficult to obtain planning permission for a listed building, making it a risky investment.

3. Seek Expert Advice

Services such as stone renovation, electrics and plumbing can often be far more complicated where period properties are concerned, because often the building structure is a law unto itself. Many of these jobs won’t be straightforward, so be prepared to ask for a professional quote before you commit to buy. This can in fact be much more useful than a survey for such unique properties.

4. Be Realistic With Your Budget

It’s essential to be aware that renovation projects on period properties can quickly spiral above the estimated budget. Whilst this isn’t always the case, beware of jumping in too deep if it looks like you’ll be on a tight budget to begin with. Try to choose a project where you will have room to manoeuvre if any obstacles do arise, rather than facing compromises or cuts later down the line.

5. Enlist Professionals

Getting the help of experts in the field is not only important for pricing things up. You might consider yourself a bit of a plumber or a competent mason, but the complex layout of period properties means that it is easy to make a mistake that can affect the stability and structure of the whole building. If in doubt, hire a specialist who can ensure the work is done safely and to a high standard, using materials that are in-keeping with the property.

Renovating a period building can be rewarding and highly profitable. But make sure that you make the commitment fully aware of the nature of the project, the cost, and any possible complications. By doing so, you can avoid any risks or nasty surprises, and ensure that your project is a resounding success.

Article written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam who you can follow at @KellyGGrassam on Twitter. She wrote this article with information from Henley Stone and enjoying the culinary delights of gods own county.

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Small Energy Suppliers Beginning To Drive Competition At Last

light my fire

According to research from Cornwall Energy, small gas and electricity suppliers now boast a customer base of 3.8m households as the market share of the ‘big six’ energy suppliers continues to fall. Currently, each of the top five cheapest plans on the market are all offered by small suppliers.

The news comes at the same time as First Utility, Britain’s biggest independent gas and electricity supplier, announced hitting 1m accounts. Other popular small suppliers include Utility Warehouse (835,000 accounts) and Ovo Energy (640,000 accounts).

Ann Robinson, Director of Consumer Policy at uSwitch, said: “This is a significant milestone for First Utility and evidence that small suppliers are at last beginning to drive competition and make the energy market work for consumers.

“Many of us can save over £200 by switching to a small supplier, which can make a huge difference to cash-strapped households.

“The growing popularity of companies like First Utility shows that small suppliers are here to stay, thanks to the excellent deals they are offering. If the big six energy providers are to keep hold of their customers, they’ll have to look at introducing more competitive prices and improving their customer service.”

The switching trend rides off the back of an investigation into the big six by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) after energy regulator Ofgem claimed there is no possibility of fair competition in the market. The probe will last until the end of next year and will look at the possibility of splitting up the top suppliers. The government will also work on proposals to improve engagement with independent suppliers.

According to the Daily Mail, increased customer dissatisfaction with the big six has come from repeated price hikes, billing issues, poor customer service and difficulties experienced when claiming refunds. Last year’s winter price rises saw the top suppliers raise gas and electricity bills by nearly 10% and Ofgem claims staying loyal to the same supplier costs customers up to £232 per year. In contrast, those who have switched to a small supplier will save £180 per year on average.

The number of gas and electricity suppliers in the UK has more than tripled since 2010 yet small suppliers still have a long way to go if they’re to catch up with the big six suppliers – British Gas, npower, SSE, E.ON, EDF and Scottish Power. The largest supplier, British Gas, supplies 15m accounts and the big six retains 92% of the market.

Despite the dominance of the big six, more than 225,000 households are switching suppliers each month according to Energy UK and the biggest suppliers have lost 2m customers to smaller suppliers since 2010.

“More and more people are voting with their feet and switching away from the Big Six to newer providers, chasing lower prices and better service. The Big Six need to raise their game if they want to keep customers,” says USwitch chief executive Steve Weller.

Debbie Faulkner is an energy blogger who champions green energy and campaigns against the monopolisation of the ‘big six’ energy companies.

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How To Maximize Your Home Space With Outdoor Lighting

white big room

Add more space in your home by installing outdoor lights in your yard, so you can use this space even at night. Many homeowners fail to see the many benefits that come from adding outdoor lighting in their backyards. When you go beyond installing a light bulb at the doorway, you actually transform a wide space into a new “room” where you can relax after work, entertain guests, and spend quality time with your family. Here are some tips to help you choose the right outdoor lighting and properly install your light fixtures so that you can transform your yard into a usable outdoor space any time of the day.

Choosing Outdoor Lights

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, have become a popular choice for outdoor lighting. These lights are preferred by most homeowners because of their style, design, and effect. When lighting your outdoor space, the goal is not to emit large amount of light, but to highlight particular areas and features that will help create a warm and inviting ambience.

Another outdoor lighting option would be a reflector light. This type of light casts a lot of light, unlike LED lights. In terms of energy consumption, a reflector light uses a 35-watt lamp while an LED only uses one watt. Another advantage of using LED lights is that they are programmable.

Low-voltage lighting is another favorite when it comes to outdoor lighting. While most homes utilize 120 volts of power, low-voltage lighting only uses about 12 volts, so there is no need for deep trenches that will hold the wiring. Low-voltage lights are quite versatile and can be used either for down-lighting or up-lighting

Additional Outdoor Lighting Options

Add charm in your evening landscape with artisan lights to illuminate a pathway or light a dining area. For a dramatic and eye-catching appeal, install a spotlight to feature a sparkling fountain. There are several small-sized spotlights available in the market, some are designed specifically for underwater lighting. Brightly colored Chinese lanterns add a festive oriental touch, while sheer globe lights create a soft romantic ambiance.

Installing Outdoor Lights

When installing outdoor landscape lighting around trees, avoid mounting them directly onto the trees with nails or screws. Driving nails or screws into growing trees would cause injury to the trees and this would trigger a healing response, similar to scar tissue that forms over a wound. If not monitored properly, the tree would eventually grow around the light fixture.

A better option for installing light fixtures onto trees is to use a strap device which is made of cloth or a nylon-type product that has a clip device which can be adjusted throughout the life of the tree.

You can also up-light using on-ground lights and avoid the dreaded "glare in the eye" hazard, or with an in-ground light. This type of lighting can also be adjusted to up-light and highlight the structure of trees.

When you take the time to carefully plan and select the your outdoor lighting, you do more than just add light, you add a safe and beautiful living space outside your home that you, your family, and your friends can all enjoy. Keep these tips in mind when looking for your landscape lighting fixtures and installing them out in your yard and be happy with the results!

Joan Silver is a known lighting expert from Capitol Lighting (1800lighting.com) and a fan of all things “lighting”. She currently provides customers and designers with robust information on their lighting needs.

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How To Prevent Your AC Drain Line From Clogging

Air_conditioner

When it is working correctly, the AC unit is one of the most overlooked home appliances, but when it is broke, well then it becomes the number one concern, especially if you live in the hotter climates like Florida, Texas, or any other southern heat magnet. There are only a few maintenance issues that the average homeowner can manage on their own, those mainly being the AC filter and the often overlooked drain line. Filters will be discussed in a different article, for this article the attention will be focused on prevention of clogging in the AC drain line.

Where it is and what it does

AC systems vary in style and type, but they are all designed with the same basic functional characteristics. The basic premise of air conditioning units is to remove the moisture from the air, thus making the homeowner feel cooler. To remove moisture from the air means that parts of your AC unit are going to gather water and that very same water has to go somewhere. While there are different parts of the AC unit that may have condensation, the Air Handler is the part of the AC unit that condensates enough to warrant the installation of a drainage system that collects the water and discharges it through a sewer line, often made of PVC pipe. Most homeowners who have walked their property and seen their AC unit outside have noticed the PVC pipe that is always dripping water as the unit runs. This pipe is the AC drain line. Accurately identifying the drain line is the first step to performing any maintenance on it.

When is maintenance necessary?

Most people do not perform maintenance on their AC units until they stop working. The first recommendation for any maintenance on an AC system is to call a certified and licensed technician. For Orlando area residents, I highly recommend going to www.facemyeracorlando.com to find that technician. Before that call is made, take a quick peek at your system to make sure the call is necessary. The AC drain line in modern systems is equipped with a kill switch that is activated when water backs up and triggers the sensor. By simply going outside and inspecting the drain line for problems, you may be able to get your AC system going again. If you look at the drain line and notice that the area around the drain is excessively dry then you may have a clogged pipe.

How to prevent your line from clogging?

Regular maintenance on the AC system is vital. The central air unit of a home is a big complicated system integrated with highly dangerous electrical parts and sophisticated refrigeration components. The best way to keep it in excellent condition is to perform maintenance twice a year in addition to regularly changing the AC filter. Part of that maintenance should include cleaning the drain pipe. The most common offender in clogging the pipe is the excessive buildup of algae combined with dust and moisture forming blockage inside the line. As with most fungus, flushing with a simple bleach solution or vinegar mixed with a little water will do the trick. If you want to make a small investment, there are algae prevention tablets that you can line the base of the collection pan with that will inhibit the growth of algae before the water starts to travel down the AC drain line. Keeping your filter changed will prevent excess moisture from collecting that also prevents the spread of algae as well.

Most homeowners are happy to save money and who wants to pay someone a service call fee when he or she can solve the problems themselves? If the line is already clogged you may have to borrow or purchase a wet vac if you don’t already have one so you can vacuum out the clogged debris from the bottom of the drain line. Another option is to blow compressed air through the top side of the drain line and force the clog out with air pressure. Whatever method you use, they are all relatively easy and could potentially save you big money and keep you cool while doing it. Like they say in the medical field though, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So, keep it clean!

The author, Ray Donato, is studying to become an electrical engineer at Valencia College in Orlando. To help supplement his income, he writes articles such as these on a number of topics related to his field of study including home maintenance of electrical appliances.

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Housing Opportunities To Be Found In London

big white house

While the quality of a property is a big factor in the overall price that a home can achieve, there is a lot to be said for the fact that many other factors will play a role in the overall level of demand and price for properties in the UK, and of course, London. There is a need for properties to have a great range of local amenities and features to increase their value to an individual byer. Being located close to some of the most exciting elements in the capital of England creates a level of demand, but there is always a desire and determination to find more elements of interest.

Being situated on the banks of the Thames is an attractive proposition for many people in London but it needs to be remembered that this will often limit the space and facilities around your property. There is a lot to be said for being located close to the river bank and the various forms of entertainment and leisure activities, but if there is no bridge or walkway to the other side of the river, you may find that you are unable to benefit from what is available within walking distance.

This is why there is a great deal of focus on the bridges of London, and there is a number of proposed and planned bridge prospects in the capital at the moment. One such bridge is the Garden Bridge, which helps to link the Temple area of the city to the South Bank. The South Bank is one of the most exciting areas of London, and being able to access this part of the city is something that will bring considerable benefit to many people in the local area.

The Garden Bridge was designed by Thomas Heatherwick, who was heavily involved with many of the designs of the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games. The bridge, as the name probably suggests, will feature woodlands elements alongside the path across the Thames, providing a visually stunning addition to the local area on top of the benefits of the walkway. At the moment there is only a computer generated layout of the bridge, but it seems to be an attractive proposition. There will be trees and wild flowers while there will also be a green park.

This bridge is indicative of the different approach that London is taking towards the Thames. In the corporate 1980s, the Thames was discarded, thought of as something which was a necessity in the area, but of being no value or merit. This is certainly not the case now, with the Thames and the areas on the banks of the river being hailed as ranking highly amongst the most vibrant and exciting parts of the city.

Property developers are swooping in

As you would expect, property developers seemed to cotton on to this fact quicker than most people and there are currently 3,000 homes being constructed alongside both banks of the Thames and there are many areas of the capital being deemed as prime London when a decade or two ago it would have been horribly overlooked.

In recent times, there has been a massive level of acceptance regarding the South Bank. This is a vibrant part of London and of course, there are some stunning views to be enjoyed from this part of the capital. From a reputable South Bank property, you can enjoy views of the Houses of Parliament, Canary Wharf, St Paul’s Cathedral and even Somerset House. The area also houses the London Eye, the Tate Modern, the Shard, the Globe, the Borough Market ensuring the South Bank is regarded as a place for boho chic in the English capital.

The level of demand for the South Bank can be seen in the fact that it is currently being described as the third city of London, with the city of London and the city of Westminster leading the way. As any city grows in popularity, there is a need to expand and the eastern and western fringes of the South Bank are experiencing a rise in demand, which means that London property surveyors are experiencing a lot more in this area. An area like the Riverwalk, close to Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament, is an excellent example of the new blocks and living areas that are sprouting up on the banks of the river.

The north side of the river has long been deemed an area full of millionaires but it seems as though the south bank is catching up. This means that there is a great demand for the services of a local surveyor find one here who can operate in these locations.

Andrew Reilly is a freelance writer with a focus on news stories and consumer interest articles. He has been writing professionally for 8 years but has been writing for as long as he can care to remember. When Andrew isn't sat behind a laptop or researching a story, he will be found watching a gig or a game of football.

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