Category: Home and Garden

Among the many home appliances we use daily, only a few are more practical and convenient than a water dispenser. If you own a water cooler, you’ll be familiar with the many benefits it offers. It’s the most cost-effective alternative to buying bottles of water.

As with everything else, it also needs a maintenance schedule. Water coolers develop moisture that needs cleaning. When there’s moisture, there’s the threat of infectious diseases and mold. Therefore, it’s vital to have a regular maintenance schedule for the water cooler. If cleaned and sanitized regularly, it will produce the same high quality of water for many years.

Things needed for cleaning:

Before you get down to cleaning the unit, there are a few basic supplies needed such as:

• A bucket (large)
• Distilled and boiled water (fresh)
• Unscented bleach
• A towel (lint)

Once you decide to clean the unit, the first thing to do is to unplug it from the mains. Only after removing the plug should you attempt to dismantle it. The risk of trying to dismantle it while it’s still plugged is you could get a severe electric shock.

• After that, remove the bottle attached to the top of the cooler, if you have a top loaded unit.
• Once the bottle is removed, ensure to drain every drop of water in a bucket using the faucet or dispenser tube.
• After every drop of water is removed from the reservoir, empty hot water into it, and leave it for around 30 minutes. Be careful when handling the hot water, so that you don’t get scalded.

Cleaning:

There are two options for cleaning the cooler – either a deep cleanse or a quick clean.

Deep Cleanse:

While this is more labor-intensive and time-consuming, it’s the best way to clean the cooler and make it as good as new.

• Start by disassembling the unit. After everything is separated (baffle, reservoir, and water guard), wipe every single component with the lint towels. Use a mixture of lukewarm water with a spoon of unscented bleach. Avoid using more than a spoon and use plenty of water.
• Ensure every single piece is thoroughly rinsed. Then, pour the same mixture in the reservoir and let it remain for approximately 10 minutes.
• Wash out the solution in the reservoir (fill it to the brim) using fresh, clean water, and drain it completely. In case you have a cooler both with hot and cold water options, do it through the cold faucet. Rinse the reservoir thrice to ensure every trace of the bleach is removed.
• After assembling the unit, attach a bottle at the top and drain 2-3 cups of water from both faucets. There should be no taste of the bleach solution. If there’s even a slight taste, rinse it again repeatedly until the taste disappears.

Quick Cleanse:

• This is a convenient and straightforward process. All you need is a bucket for draining away the water and hot water.
• First, unplug the unit.
• Place the tubes in the container, so that they could suck the hot water and empty the water in the other container.
• Repeat the process for half an hour.

For more such tips for taking care of your water cooler, visit Home FixWorld.

If you have a lawn — and you probably do, considering that turfgrass is by far the most popular crop grown in the U.S. — you need some form of irrigation. Water is perhaps the most fundamental of grass’s needs; without a reliable source of water, grass will fail to thrive, stop growing and ultimately die. Your lawn should be getting about 1.5 inches of water per week, depending on your grass variety and climate.

Hoses are a common way to water a lawn, but they certainly aren’t the best way. First, using a hose to water your lawn requires you to remember to turn the water on and off at the right time of day and week. Secondly, hoses typically fail to provide uniform irrigation, even when you add sprinkler attachments; the water simply won’t reach certain corners of your grass, meaning those areas won’t grow as well, and your lawn will look patchy and unkempt.

A better solution is to install an automated sprinkler system. This allows you to place sprinkler heads so that every square inch of lawn receives the right amount of water — but more importantly, it allows you to schedule waterings, so you never have to remember to turn the hose on or off to preserve your lawn’s health.

While sprinkler systems are by far the superior irrigation method, they aren’t foolproof. In fact, you will need to care for your sprinkler system the way you would work to maintain any system around your house to ensure that it works reliably — and allows you to avoid pulling out the hose. To that end, here are some tips for sprinkler maintenance to keep your grass easily green.

Be Familiar with Your Sprinklers

Not only should you know what kind of sprinkler system you have — for example, what spray heads you use, whether sprinklers pop up or stay up, what nozzles you have, etc. — but you should also know how your exact system functions. Specifically: How long does it take for your sprinklers to provide your lawn with an inch of water?

This is important to know because you don’t want to water your lawn too much or too little; you need to be able to set your sprinklers to run for the perfect amount of time. You can test your sprinkler system using the tuna can test, whereby you set out small containers all around your lawn (tuna cans work well, but you can use any rather shallow container) and time how long it takes for them to fill up one inch. Then, you should set your system to run for that long once per week or half as long twice per week.

Inspect Your System Regularly

The outdoors does a number on any manmade system. It’s not uncommon for sprinkler systems to break in some way or another, and the sooner you catch a problem, the less likely that problem is to ruin your lawn or else cost an exorbitant amount in sprinkler maintenance and repairs. You should look for leaking lines, which might indicate a hole or merely a broken connection. You should also check your sprinkler heads to ensure they are pointing the right direction when they spray.

Pay Attention to Efficiency

Speaking of misdirected sprinkler heads, you should try to ensure your sprinklers are providing water as efficiently as possible. If there is a ton of runoff on your hardscaping or water is pooling in one part of the lawn while another area is bone-dry, your system isn’t efficient. The same is true if your sprinklers create mist instead of spray. You might need to reposition your sprinkler heads, adjust the flow or install additional tools, like pressure control devices, to improve efficiency.

Change Your Schedule Seasonally

It doesn’t matter where you live; the weather changes every season, which means your sprinkling schedule should change, too. Typically, you should be watering most heavily in the summer, when rain is scarce and temperatures are high. However, you might want to speak with a lawn expert about how much you should irrigate for every time of year in your area.

Hire Professionals Annually

Even if your sprinkler system seems to be working fine, it’s a good idea to bring in professionals once a year, usually in the late spring, to conduct a more thorough inspection and perform a system tune-up. Because sprinkler systems are complex, you probably won’t be able to identify all of your system’s needs. These annual visits will fill in the gaps of your care and ensure your sprinklers work into the future.

Energy efficiency: it is a term that has become increasingly prevalent in North American media, politics, and pop culture, as a growing awareness of the earth’s finite resources and concerns over anthropogenic climate change are raising alarm bells over the sustainability of current energy-use levels.

One of the main areas where energy efficiency has become a major concern is in the domestic sphere. With plenty of tools now available to allow homeowners to calculate their carbon footprint, the imperative to make homes more energy efficient has grown.

In a few cases, this has even lead people to embrace large-scale projects to make their homes one hundred percent carbon neutral, like installing solar panels; in many more cases, concerns over energy efficiency have driven investment in green appliances that use less energy and water, and in smart thermostats that heat homes more strategically. The advance of the latest tankless water heaters in many homes across North America is a testament to such progress.

The drive toward efficiency has also had a major impact on how people outfit their homes. Windows and doors are serious weak spots when it comes to making your home more efficient, and many companies, like Ontario-based EcoTech Windows and Doors, have capitalized on concerns over energy use by offering their customers a wide range of efficient alternatives that provide better insulation.

But while energy efficiency is a crucial issue for those who are deeply concerned about the state of the environment, it is also an absolutely essential concern for those who want to economize.

As energy prices rise, the cost of inefficiency rises as well, and installing new energy efficient windows now is the best way to ensure that the money you spend heating your house isn’t heating the outdoors.

For example, as soon as you learn how air leaks damage your home it becomes clear that installing energy efficient windows providing world-class insulation aren’t just good for the planet; they are also good for your bottom line.

As much as twenty-five percent of total energy loss in a house is typically through windows and doors, and those leaky windows are doing a lot more than just burning carbon — they’re burning money, as well.

This is perhaps unsurprising. Studies have shown that a single pane of glass has a fairly low R-value: 0.03, to be exact. But triple-glazed windows improve on that this significantly, and even better insulation rates can be achieved when the air between panes is replaced by gasses with more insulating properties, like argon.

In much of North America, rising costs driven by lack of energy security are already being felt. And while governments on all levels are looking for a variety of solutions to the problem of shortages, in an increasingly crowded planet, efficiency is one of the only ways to ensure that there is enough energy to meet all our needs.

This means that the environmentally friendly decision to replace your windows and doors with more energy efficient models is also the right economic choice. Don’t continue to squander your dollars on excess heating bills caused by an inefficient house — find a window installation company specializing in energy efficient products in your city today.

Not many things in a garden are as inviting as a fully furnished deck. Even in winter, a set of rattan furniture surrounding the garden table filled with hot chocolates and marshmallows instead of steaks sizzling on the barbecue can be particularly inviting. The Dino deck didn’t become popular until the early 90s so we are in a fortunate time to be able to enjoy all of these comforts in our own back gardens. But did you know…

All decking is the same, right?

Composite decks, aside from the colour and design, may all look alike when installed. But there are actually 2 different types – hollow and solid. Hollow decking has cavities through the length of the decks, which reduces the cost and also the weight. This can make it much easier to work with and can be more practical if you are making overhead structures such as pagodas. To prevent damage, the lighter hollow decking does need more care before and during installation to prevent damage. Solid decking is more similar to natural timber. It looks heavier and is heavier, meaning it can be more difficult to move around the frame, especially if working by yourself. It gives a much more natural look but like real wood, it can be more sensitive to changes in temperature resulting in more expansion and contraction when the weather changes.

Isn’t composite decking expensive?

When budgeting for a new deck installation the budget will be a factor to consider when deciding whether to go for timber or composite decking. The initial cost for composite decking will be higher as compared to timber, but over the lifetime of the installation the treatment and maintenance costs associated with wood will vastly elevate the price. When a composite deck is installed, other than a wipe down to remove footprints and spillages from the occasionally dropped sausage it will completely take care of itself. Regardless of what weather conditions it is exposed to there will be no splintering, warping colour fading. You can be confident that for the foreseeable future, the composite deck will look the same as when it was installed. Timber, on the other hand, will require regular power washing, sanding, staining to keep the colour consistent and a final coat with varnish or wax to keep the moisture out. Moisture is the main factor associated with timber decking failing over time and however well you look after it, the water will always win the battle!

Colour co-ordination.

At the time of manufacture, pigmentation is added to the formulation of composite deck boards to determine the final colour. There is no painting or staining involved. Not only does this provide a perfectly consistent colour throughout the whole board, but also allows for almost any colour board to be produced. Should you wish to make a statement with a pink yellow and green pattern, or coordinate your garden to match the local football team then that is no problem – other than the complaints from the neighbours of course! Achieving the same result with timber will be much more difficult, however, once you have decided on the final colour of your composite boards there is no going back. Timber can be repainted if you change your mind but when a composite is in, it’s in until you change the boards.

Warning!

Other than on decking, there are few occasions when you will have the opportunity to walk on wood outdoors. Timber deck that is used outdoors is very different to what you may be used to with laminate floors and real wood floors inside. The main thing to be aware of with wooden decking is how hazardous it can become in bad weather. Even a small amount of surface water can make a wooden deck dangerously slippery, even when wearing shoes that you would consider to have a substantial grip. One of the great features of composite decking boards, primarily due to their high plastic content, is that they have great anti-slip properties. Even when exposed to significant rainfall it is still safe to walk across the deck. This can be a particularly important consideration if you are planning to install a decking walkway in your garden. These are popular to traverse the garden without having to cross the lawn which in bad weather can ruin your grass and cause muddy footprints across the rest of the garden and inside your home.

Anything else you should know?

Timber decking boards are generally made in much smaller lengths than composite boards. If cut too long, timber will warp and possibly split. There is no danger of this happening with composite decks so the boards can be much longer, sometimes up to 20 feet in length. This can significantly reduce the amount of cutting required, and wastage when installing a composite deck.

People usually opt for in ground pools mainly because they aren’t aware of some of the main benefits of the above ground pools. It’s not that in ground pools aren’t good, in fact, it’s just that the above ground ones are more cost effective and they come with several benefits that cannot be denied. Also, if you are someone who is planning to get a pool in the house then this article is a must read for you because first of all, the above ground pools are trending at the moment and secondly today in this article we are going to jot down some of the most amazing benefits of above ground pools that cannot be denied in any case.

Here are some of the most convincing benefits of the above ground pools;

1-The cost

Even if you are rich, you’d still love the idea of saving some money and well, if you really want to save some then you need to opt for an above ground pool. You see the cost of an in ground pool starts from $15000 and it goes upto $20,000 which is pretty expensive but on the other hand, the cost of the above ground pool starts from $1500 which is quite affordable even for an average family that earns average. Now, it is but very obvious that you will go for the pool that costs you less because ultimately at the end of the day, it’s a pool and whether it’s an in ground pool or an above ground pool, they both have the same benefits and the same fun.

2-Installation time

In ground pools are quite a time taking, and it can take you a whole month to install one but on the other hand, when it comes to the above ground pools, you can get them installed in literally a single day. Yes, you read it right, the point is that the kits for above ground pools are already ready and you just need to install them wherever you want. In ground pools need proper designing and planning and well, the digging the ground part is also quite time taking. So, if you really want to save your time then start looking for the best above ground pool instead of an in ground one.

3-Lesser space

Another benefit of an above ground pool is that they require lesser space. So, if you are someone who has limited ground space and if you really want to get a pool in your house then congratulations, an above ground pool is the best option for you as they are ready to be installed and they don’t need any digging etc. It’s all settled when it comes to an above ground pool.

4-Mobility

If you ever feel the need to remove or relocate your pool then remember that an inground pool will be very costly for you and even if you remove it, the pool will still stay there. However, that’s not the case with an above ground pool and if you ever want to relocate it, you can do that easily within a single day. Yes, you read it right and removing an above ground pool won’t even cost you much.

Conclusion

These are some of the benefits of an above ground pool. So, now, if you really want to save your time, money and energy then don’t think anymore and get yourself an above ground pool right now. We assure you that no matter what happens, you won’t ever regret your decision.

Replacing windows for your home comes with many advantages. Remember that before you decide to replace your windows, there is the main reason why you want to replace them. Besides the main reason, there are other benefits of having replacement windows, and they include;

1.Improved security

When you have new windows installed, it is much difficult for someone to break into your house compared to when you have old ones. New windows are normally installed using the current technology hence all the functions of a window in your home are improved.

2.Save energy cost

Old windows are poor at allowing in heat from the sun and retaining it to provide warmth. This, in turn, leads you to spend so much on electricity to keep your house warm. With new windows installed, you are most likely to save on energy cost since modern windows are designed to allow in heat from the sun to be trapped in the house.

3.Increase your home value

Installing new windows automatically increases the value of your home. Remember that you might need to sell your house for whatever reason. When you evaluate the cost of your house when it has old windows to when new ones are installed, the price can never be same no matter what. This comes in handy when you decide to sell.

4.Easy to maintain

Old windows are not easy to clean. New windows, on the other hand, are designed in such a way that you don’t need so much effort to clean. When choosing replacement windows, you should always go for one that is highly resistant to rust and mildew for they don’t require so much attention. Easy to maintain windows are the best especially if you have a busy schedule and you have no time to clean or inspect your windows regularly.

5.Noise reduction

Modern windows have high acoustic insulation and are good at preventing noise. This is an important advantage because it plays a major role in ensuring you get a quiet night sleep. Noise from inside the house is also contained so that you don’t disturb your neighbors with loud music. As we all know that how important is sleep for anyone, normally people say to being healthy required 7 to 8 hours of good sleep. Things like sleep time calculator can help you to understand on which time you need to go on bed.

6.Protection of your furniture from UV rays

UV rays are harmful for your furniture because they make the furniture to fade. With new windows installed, this is a problem that you never have to deal with again. Modern windows sieve in heat and normal light into your house blocking UV rays from causing damage to your precious furniture.

7.Comfort

When you have old windows that give you a hard time to open, close or prevent noise, you don’t stay at peace. Your mind can never settle because you are always bothered by the thought of someone getting into your house or noise from outside. The moment you replace your windows, you get your peace of mind, and you can finally be comfortable in your house.

8.Improve your house appeal

Windows compliment a house, and if you install new windows for your house, it will definitely have a new look. A good home should look as impressive as possible, and the windows are a major part of this course.

Importance of front yards

Front yards are something not everyone has in their house but once who do always hold it close to their hearts as it is a place where they would want to spend the most of their free time and where they would unwind and relax so it kind of becomes sacred for them and they want it to be the best in every way possible but let’s be honest, it is not an easy task to maintain a yard and make it look the best all the time and it takes a lot of time as well so if you do not have a designated person to look after it, it will perish and that can be heart breaking. Front yards comprise of grass, tables or a nice small flower area but all these things as said are very high maintenance but this is changing with the introduction of new type of grasses and flowers that are not exactly that but look the same and require no or minimal maintenance. These type of additions are right out of the future and will be in place in every front yard of every house very soon as they have a lot of benefits

Artificial boxwood

One of the most used and useful new introduction to this scene is artificial boxwood, it is something that allows you to cover any wall or place with artificial grass and make a proper garden out of it. These panels of wood can protect you from the sun when you will be relaxing on your front yard and also give you extra privacy from people passing by and you will not have to worry about them snooping around.

Advantages of using artificial boxwood

The usage of this boxwood will make your garden fire resistant as compared to a normal garden which if dry enough will catch fire really quickly and it can be dangerous or in worst cases, fatal. The presence of an artificial garden that does not require maintenance also will help you save water as you will not have to water it every alternate day to keep it alive and healthy and it is also really easy to maintain as it is not real and you do not have to fertilizers and pesticides. As it remains in the state you bought it as, it will always look perfect and you will not have to worry about fixing it again and again. The usage of boxwood to panel your safe space is also going to reduce outside noise a lot and make you stay in peace and give you the serene feeling you would potentially want to get out of your front yard. So its recommended that if you have a front yard it will always help to have artificial boxwood installed and it is something that you will never regret investing in and will always thank yourself for having put it in there.

There are times when you are forced to move to a new place. It could be because you have found your dream job or you just want to live closer to your family. But moving can be stressful and expensive.

Some people manage to move all by themselves, but for most people they need help to move. If you cannot move all by yourself, you need professional movers to help you move. However, there are many movers in the market which makes it hard for you to identify the right one. There are scam movers out there as well as good movers that offer excellent services to their clients. This article will guide you on how to pick the best company of movers Richmond VA.

1.Look at the Reviews and Ratings

The first step in finding the best company to help you move is by doing a bit of research about the company. Find the company that has good online customer reviews and ratings. This means that they offer great services and most of their clients are satisfied with their services. In addition ask for recommendations from people around that you trust that have used their services. This is another great way of identifying the best movers around your area. Here you might find a few companies with good reviews and ratings.

2.Ask for Price Estimates

The next thing you should do is to ask for cost estimates from the potential companies. This is where you pick the company that conforms with your budget. The cost should not be too high for you. Also, beware of too low prices, movers with low costs might offer low quality services or they have hidden charges. This will cause them to withhold your goods until you pay the extra money.

3.Have Home Survey

Pick the company that offers free home estimation. Phone and email estimation are good but they are not enough. Insist on having home estimation. A reputable movers company will give you a home survey and give a precise cost of moving.

4.Ensure the Movers Are Licensed and Insured

Looking for a qualified movers can be a daunting experince in a sea of movers. Make sure that the company you are about to hire are licensed to operate as movers. The movers Richmond VA should be licensed by the United States Department of Transportation. Request the company to provide you with their USDOT number or you can look for it in the USDOT website. Also, find out if the company you are about to partner with is insured. They should be insured by your states movers association. This will help you identify an accredited and reliable moving company for you.

5.Consider their Experience

You should trust a company that has served your area for a number of years. Check out their level of engagement in community services. This will give you a hint if it is a good company to entrust with your belongings or not.

You will spend a lot of time in researching and finding the best moving company, but it will be worthwhile at the end. It will save you money and time. Consider these factors to help you move quickly and easily.