-
When home electrical repairs get more complicated than changing a fuse, deciding what electrician to hire for your job can be difficult. A quick Google search in your area probably turns up dozens of options. But how do you know which is the right one for the job?
Before you hire an electrician, consider these ten key factors. You might even want to use them as interview questions.
Level of Experience
How complicated is your job? Is it one that an inexperienced electrician could easily handle, or does it require a more seasoned veteran?
Expect to pay an experienced electrician more than one new to the industry. But if the job is complex, it’ll be worth the extra investment.
Are They Licensed and Insured?
Accidents can happen on any job site. If your electrician isn’t licensed and insured, those accident costs could end up coming out of your pocketbook.
Can They Provide References?
Any electrician worth their salt will have a list of references from satisfied customers. Ask for at least three, then contact those references to learn all the details about how the job went.
What is the Scope of Your Project?
Do you expect that your job should only take a few hours or less than a day? Or is it a more involved project that could stretch on for weeks?
Depending on your individual needs, choose the best electrician who can fulfill the job within the expected timeframe.
How Busy is Their Schedule?
If you need work done immediately, you don’t want to be told over the phone that they can “be there sometime next week.” If that’s the answer, it’s best to move on to the next option.
How Responsive Are They?
When you call for the first time, does your call go straight to voicemail? Did it take several days to get a callback? This probably isn’t the electrician you want to work with.
Does the Electrician Stick to Deadlines?
Before hiring an electrician, ask them about their track record for sticking to the deadlines they set. This is also a great question to ask their references.
How Much Do They Charge?
You don’t want to overpay the electrician you hire. Find out upfront what their exact rates will be for the job. Also, find out if they charge by the job or by the hour.
Visit https://www.torqelectricians.com/ to learn more.
-
A home’s exterior conveys to passersby how much the owners care about their property. If you’re trying to sell your home, curb appeal can encourage prospective buyers to look closer.
The meaning of curb appeal
Curb appeal is how attractive a home appears to someone when it is looked upon from a street distance. A freshly cut lawn and trimmed hedges make the exterior of any home stand out.
Improving the curb appeal of your home
People can’t help but smile when they see that the exterior of a home is well-kept. The good news is that your house can be a tiny one, a mansion, or somewhere in between. Take a little time to enhance its curb appeal. When you do, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the difference it can make in how you and others view your home. What’s more, curb appeal always adds benefits you can measure in terms of home value.
Handle those unattractive aspects around your property
Since you’re used to seeing your home from the outside every day, you might miss what a passerby who has never before seen your home notices. To get a reality check, take pictures of every side of your home. Doing so will help you bring distracting elements into focus.
Specifically, pay attention to:
- Cracking concrete
- Fencing in disrepair
- Graffiti on structures and walkways
- Overgrown grass and weeds
- Too plain of a yard, not interesting
- The trash in the yard and overfilled trash cans
As you can tell, many of those things mentioned are simply exterior upkeep. Fixing them will help you make a great impression when trying to sell your home. With our busy lives, it’s easy to get distracted. However, if you make improvements to your home’s exterior, buyers will take notice.
Public property is another matter. Typically, maintaining clean sidewalks and pothole-free streets in front of your home is the city’s responsibility. To get the debris removed or street repairs completed, call the city and put in a maintenance request.
A plain exterior needs sprucing up
A bare exterior can cause a home to be overlooked just as much as one with many unattractive elements. If your home’s exterior looks clean but is on the plain side, liven it up. Add some color with flowers, a few complimentary shrubs, and maybe even a fruit tree. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just by making a few plant additions, you’ll add to your home’s curb appeal.
Pressure wash exterior surfaces
This is one of the easiest things you can do to your home. Hiring a pressure washing service is the best way to bring any dull surface back to life.
Use a professional exterior cleaning service to wash your home’s driveway, siding, roof, windows, and decks.
-
In our fast-paced lives, unexpected situations can catch us off guard at any moment. Whether it’s a sudden plumbing emergency, a locked-out situation, or an electrical issue, having essential services on speed dial can save you time, money, and stress. In this article, we’ll guide you through five essential services you should keep on speed dial for those unexpected moments when you need a quick and reliable solution.
- Locksmith Services
One of the most common scenarios many of us have faced is being locked out of our homes or cars. That’s where locksmith services come to the rescue. They can swiftly provide solutions such as lockouts, key cutting, and yes, even car key replacement and programming. With a trusted locksmith on speed dial, you won’t have to worry about being stranded due to lost or damaged car keys.
- Plumbing Experts
Plumbing emergencies can turn your day upside down in an instant. A burst pipe, a clogged drain, or a malfunctioning water heater can wreak havoc on your home. Having a reliable plumber’s number on hand ensures you can quickly address these issues, preventing further damage and costly repairs.
- Electricians
Electrical problems are not only inconvenient but can also be hazardous. If you encounter a sudden power outage, exposed wires, or faulty circuits, a skilled electrician can restore safety and functionality to your home promptly. Don’t wait until it’s too late—keep an electrician’s contact information readily available.
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Services
Extreme temperatures can make your home unbearable. When your heating or cooling system fails unexpectedly, it’s crucial to have an HVAC expert you can trust. They can diagnose and repair issues, ensuring your indoor climate remains comfortable year-round.
- Emergency Medical Services
While not a traditional “home service,” having the local emergency medical services (EMS) number saved in your contacts can be a lifesaver. In case of a medical emergency at home, you’ll be able to quickly connect with professional help, ensuring a faster response time when every second counts.
In conclusion, life is unpredictable, and emergencies can happen when you least expect them. By keeping these essential services on speed dial, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle unexpected challenges that arise in your home and personal life. From locksmiths who can assist with car key replacement and programming to plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and emergency medical services, having these contacts readily available can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re never caught off guard. Remember, preparedness is key to managing unforeseen situations effectively.
ATR100124
-
Keeping our living and working spaces clean has become a top priority in a world that values cleanliness and hygiene more than ever. However, the demands of our busy lives often leave us little time and energy for thorough cleaning. That’s where a professional janitorial service comes to the rescue! But with countless options available, how do you choose the right one?
1. Define Your Cleaning Needs:
Before searching for a janitorial service, it’s essential to identify your specific cleaning requirements. Consider the size of your space, the type of cleaning tasks needed, and any unique cleaning protocols necessary. By understanding your needs, you can communicate them effectively to potential janitorial service providers, ensuring they have the expertise and resources to meet your expectations.
2. Research and Read Reviews:
Take the time to research different janitorial service providers in your area. Visit their websites, read customer testimonials, and explore online review platforms. Positive reviews are a good indicator of reliability and quality service. Look for testimonials highlighting promptness, professionalism, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction. Additionally, seek referrals from trusted sources who have previously used janitorial services, as personal recommendations can provide valuable insights.
3. Ensure Proper Insurance and Bonding:
When hiring a janitorial service, protecting your property and assets is crucial. Verify that the service provider has adequate liability insurance coverage to safeguard against potential accidents or damages. Additionally, inquire about bonding, which provides an extra layer of protection against theft or dishonesty. Both insurance and bonding demonstrate the janitorial service’s commitment to accountability and professional integrity.
4. Assess Cleaning Equipment and Supplies:
A reliable janitorial service should have access to high-quality cleaning equipment and supplies. Inquire about the types of equipment they use, such as vacuum cleaners, floor scrubbers, and eco-friendly cleaning products. Modern and well-maintained equipment enhances efficiency and ensures thorough cleaning. Additionally, if you have specific preferences for environmentally friendly or hypoallergenic cleaning products, discuss this with potential service providers to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
5. Discuss Pricing and Contracts:
When discussing pricing with a janitorial service, understand the breakdown of costs and any additional charges for specialized services. Compare quotes from different providers and ensure you get a fair and competitive price. Additionally, carefully review the contract terms, including cancellation policies, frequency of service, and any guarantees provided. Clear communication and transparency regarding pricing and contractual obligations will help you avoid surprises or misunderstandings.
Hiring a professional janitorial service is a wise investment in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Following these seven essential tips, you can confidently select a service provider that meets your needs. With exemplary janitorial service by your side, your space will shine with cleanliness and professionalism.
ATR112323
-
Mold is a fungal problem that can easily make its way into your home, contaminating the air and growing on walls. You can find it in just about any type of building, and it has the potential to infect your personal belongings as well. It is caused by moisture and must be removed as soon as possible to limit the possibility of damage and further spreading. You can take steps to limit the chance of your home being invaded by mold because there are some things you can do yourself.
- Check your house for moisture problems
Too much moisture in your home can cause mold to grow and ruin any exposed materials. Ensure that none of the water pipes are leaking or that you check for standing water in any area, including your basement. This way, you don’t have to worry about mold hazards in your home.
- Keep your roof in good repair
If you live in a household above the ground, or one that must be waterproof, ensure your roof is in good repair. Some spots on the top can allow moisture to seep into and start growing mold. Check for any holes or water damage to your roof and get them fixed before you can do any further damage.
- Keep humidity down
It may seem counterintuitive to try and keep your home dry when trying to prevent mold, but high humidity levels can increase the growth potential of mold spores and lead to various costly problems. If you have an air conditioning system or an effective ventilation system, this will allow for a lower humidity level and keep it from getting too high.
- Replace your air filters
When air filters get too dirty, they can cause moisture from the air to accumulate in the home instead of outside. Air conditioning systems have filters to catch large particles, but the air filters installed in your home are meant to trap smaller particles. Don’t trust your filters to see everything; replace them every month or season. If you suspect a mold problem, this will help prevent any new growth from forming.
- Check storage areas
Keep any items prone to getting damp or have molding potential in a dry area. The plastic helps keep moisture out and your items safe. If you leave these materials exposed, they can quickly develop a mold problem. Don’t store them in areas where they will be exposed to outside moisture, like a leaking roof. Make sure any furniture you have is water resistant; if it isn’t, cover it with plastic wrap until you find something better suited to the job.
6. Keep Carpets Clean and Dry
Carpeting and padding can easily harbor mold and mildew. You must regularly deep clean your wall-to-wall carpeting to prevent mold and mildew from developing. It is relatively inexpensive to hire a carpet cleaning service to clean your carpets twice a year. Get a free consultation and quote from ASAP Carpet Cleaning.
A mold problem can cause many problems and put you in a position where you have to pay to renovate everything. Before anything like that happens, make sure you are doing everything possible to prevent mold from getting into your home in the first place.
-
Maintaining a residential or commercial property’s aesthetic appearance is critical to increasing its value. Exterior cleanings are one such maintenance method. Two commonly employed house washing applications are soft washing and pressure washing.
Soft Washing
Soft washing is performed to address dirt, stains, and other unsightly occurrences on smaller objects than a home or building’s façade. The process is executed by equipping a pressure washing apparatus with nozzles capable of releasing water at diminished pressure.
The device further performs the process utilizing cleansing agents holding the ability to eradicate environmental debris, such as dirt, dust, allergens, and pollutants, in addition to stains precipitated by spills and other occurrences.
Typically, soft washing is undertaken to clean surfaces or objects like roofs, decks, patios, screened enclosures, and patio furniture. This technique may be employed to remediate sidings, such as cedar, wood, and stucco.
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is performed by dispensing water at significantly high pressure against a particular surface. In many instances, water is expelled at the rate of 2,500 pounds per square inch, which is also abbreviated as PSI.
Cleaning industry professionals maintain that pressure washing is especially effective in removing the stubborn stains and environmental debris often accumulating on exterior facades, including brick, stone, or concrete structures, and other constructions, such as driveways and sidewalks.
That said, these same experts caution that this action should be carefully regulated. If excessive pressure is applied or the process is not executed properly, receiving surfaces could incur damage.
Differences Between Soft And Pressure Washing
Though each procedure has similar aims, there are certain discernible differences between the two processes.
The most significant discrepancy is the power each procedure employs. Soft washes are often executed using 400 DPI or less. Pressure washers utilize far greater power, sometimes as great as 2,500 DPI.
Another notable difference is chemical usage. Soft washing is less reliant on pressure as a means of breaking up caked or hard-to-reach collections of unwanted grime. Therefore, success is far more contingent upon the employment of cleansing agents.
One other discernible variation is the intended surfaces. Soft washes are meant for more sensitive objects, like windows, furniture, screens, and lighter exterior siding materials, such as vinyl and wood.
Pressure washing should be performed only on surfaces capable of withstanding the associated pressure load. Such destinations include heavy materials like stone or concrete.
Do-It-Yourself?
Many home or property owners wonder if soft or pressure washing can be a do-it-yourself endeavor. While soft washing can certainly be performed without professional assistance, industry professionals caution against undertaking pressure washing with care.
The pressure exuded during such efforts is intense and could be injurious for individuals not versed in the skill.
-
The best way to get a good house or office cleaning service is to ask a friend about theirs. If you’ve got a friend who comes home from a hard day of work each day to a spotlessly clean home and arises to meet a well-cleaned office in the morning, you’ve got to ask them where they found them.
If not, your local Yellow Pages will have lots of listings, and you can also find good services on the internet. You should also decide whether you’d like an independent contractor or a company. Going independent means cutting out the middle man, but you have to take care of taxes, liability, and other issues yourself. A company ensures that its workers are covered, and you don’t have to worry about it.
Decide What You Want to be Done
Before you even think of calling a cleaning services company or individual, decide in detail what you’d like done. Most folks don’t need dishes washed and would prefer not to have the maid in the bedroom. You might just want to have the carpets cleaned, in which case you would contact a carpet cleaning company. Brainstorm every possible thing you’d want to be cleaned, and let this list be your guide when you interview potential cleaners.
Also, decide how often you’d like them to visit, and what time of day. If you have no preference about the time of day, they will make some suggestions. These are important things to think about before you call anybody because they’ll determine which one is the best match for you.
Other Questions To Ask
A good cleaning service provider will have professional gear and materials to use, as well as lots of expertise on how to clean every nook and cranny of the office or house. During the interview, go through the area you need to be cleaned with your prospective cleaner and have them offer suggestions on what they’ll do. This will give you an idea of their experience.
You should also check the company’s policies. What if you’re unhappy with the work? What if you go on vacation and don’t need their services? How do their insurance and liability work? What is their policy if your cleaner gets sick or quits?
Find out how long they’ve been in the cleaning business, and whether they’ve had any complaints against them. You can always check them out with the Better Business Bureau, and this will tell you if they’ve ever had any trouble. You might want to ask them also what kind of formal training their cleaners get.
Good Communication Produces Results
There are also some simpler things to consider when hiring a cleaning services company. For example, are they on time for the interview? Are they friendly and professional? You need your cleaner to be reliable, trustworthy, and easy to talk to. A good relationship with your cleaning services provider will make everything go much more smoothly.
Finding a good cleaning service takes the workload off of you, and puts it in the hands of an experienced professional. Once you find a great service that you’re happy with, you can stop spending time scrubbing your floors and spend your time on more worthwhile things.
ATR121823
-
Having a clean home can help to ensure that you minimize your risk for colds, flu, and coronavirus. There are many different steps you can take to ensure that the home is clean and healthy.
1. Regular Cleaning
Cleaning your home regularly should be a top priority. You should clean your home thoroughly every week, and you should create a schedule to make sure that you do not miss anything. Ensure that you wipe down walls, mop floors, and dust to ensure that there are no germs around. Use a sanitizing spray at least once a week to ensure that you cut down on germ and bacteria growth. Regular carpet cleaning is a must to reduce dirt dust and odors in your home. Click here to learn more.
2. Air Duct Cleaning
Over time, your air ducts can become full of dust and debris. This can clog your ductwork, and you could be breathing in all these particles. If you see a lot of dust build up in your home and find yourself dusting frequently, this may be a sign that your ducts need to be cleaned. If this is the case, you will want to call your local air duct cleaning company to clean your ducts. Cleaning the ducts will help to ensure that the air you are breathing in your home is clean.
3. Adding a UV Light
Another great way to ensure that your home is healthy and fresh is to have a UV light installed in your HVAC system. UV lights come on and kill any germs or bacteria in your air. This is great to ensure that the air is completely clean. UV lights can kill almost anything, including the coronavirus. Having one installed is affordable and will do wonders for the health of your family.
4. Getting an Air Purifier
If you want to make sure that the air is fresh and healthy, you should consider purchasing an air purifier. Air purifiers have filters that will trap bacteria, allergens, and mold. The air purifier not only scrubs the air clean but also helps to eliminate any odors that may be lurking in your home. There are many options when it comes to air purifiers. You can get a whole-house air purifier, or you can get small purifiers for each room.
With just these few steps, you can ensure that the air in your home is clean and healthy. When the air in your home is clean and healthy, so is your home. Just remember to do all that you can to minimize allergens and bacteria from coming into your home.
-
Although most toilet problems require professional help, there are some problems that you can solve yourself. Knowing how and when to do this gives you more benefits, such as saving time and money. Once you are fully aware of the decisions you can make yourself, you no longer have to worry about paying professional remuneration. In this article, you will learn how to independently solve the main problems with the toilet. Here are Tips on Solving Common Toilet Problems
Clogged Bowl or Drain
If the bowl is full or filled with water, first remove it with a small or half bucket. Use the plunger to pump the drain several times until it is clogged is removed. Repeat if necessary if the first attempt failed. The best tool to unclog the toilet is the toilet plunger. Most people make the mistake of using a plunger to wash the toilet, not realizing that it is not strong enough to create the necessary suction force. It is a good idea to flush the toilet once it is unclogged completely. It will clean the toilet and make it ready to use. If clogging persists even after several dives, you should choose a professional plumber or house cleaning service and not spend more time solving the problem yourself.
A housecleaning service can be useful to solve many toilet blockages. They use some cleaning chemicals that are capable of dissolving papers. Always wear rubber gloves and clean the toilet bowl several times to remove chemicals. Try removing solid objects, rather than pushing them deeper into the ground pipe and causing drainage problems.
Leaking toilet
If you notice or notice a wet floor in the bathroom, especially around the toilet, check the vessel and check for cracks or leaks. To do this, you must first turn off the water supply to the toilet. Make sure the system is completely dry, then remove the toilet and replace it with a new one. This time carefully check the ship to make sure that the same defect does not appear again shortly. Carefully close the base to avoid leakage again.
Flushing Problems
One of the most common problems with a toilet is that it does not flush. If this happens in your bathroom, then you need to check its parts and the connection between them so that you know if everything works as expected. You may find that the handle is too loose or too tight, so you will have to adjust it. If the handle is locked or loose, remove the lid from the toilet, then clean the locknut to make the handle work properly and smoothly.
Fill Valve is Not Working
If the filling valve does not fill the tank properly or does not fill it at all, there may be problems with the valve. If the crane is easy to remove and clean, you can certainly do it yourself. You can find more information by following the instructions in the manual or go to the company’s website for more details. If nothing has changed and the problem persists, this may indicate a more serious problem with the pumping system.
As you can see, these basic problems with the toilet are not at all difficult to diagnose and solve. However, if you feel that you are not 100% sure how to approach a specific problem, immediately seek professional plumbing services, and do not try to do something that will only aggravate this condition.
-
There are several types of carpets to choose from. That is why it can be hard for you to make the right choice. There are several things that you will need to take into consideration before you choose the carpet.
<
What the Room Will Be Used for?
The type of carpet that you need will depend on what you will be using. You will also need to answer the following questions.
- Will there be light or heavy traffic in the room?
- Will the room be used for entertaining?
- Will there be direct access from the outside?
Go Green
Your carpet can affect your indoor air quality, which can affect your health. Carpet is known for its distinctive smell. However, that smell is likely caused by volatile organic compounds. Volatile organic compounds can have an adverse effect on indoor air quality. You can protect your family by buying a carpet that is made out of organic materials.
The Cost
When you meet with your carpet dealer, they will ask you a few questions. Are you installing the carpet because you want to re-decorate the room for your enjoyment, or do you plan on selling the home or building in the future? What is the size of the room? The answers to those questions will determine the cost estimate.
It is always a good idea to get an estimate before any type of work is done. This will ensure that you do not go over the budget that you have set. Make sure that the budget includes the cost of padding, installation, and steaming.
Understand The Maintenance Requirements
All carpet requires regular maintenance. However, there are some types of carpets that are harder to maintain than others. If you do not want to spend a lot of time cleaning your carpet, then it is a good idea for you to buy a stain-resistant carpet. You will also need to ask about carpet cleaners and maintenance requirements before you buy the carpet.
Anti-Static Technology
Most of today’s carpets are sprayed with anti-static protection. This is an important feature to have because most homes have a lot of electronics in them. You can cause a computer to short-circuit just by walking on the carpet. Anti-static technology can prevent this from happening.
The Padding
The padding helps provide the carpet with additional protection and support. It also prevents your carpet from aging prematurely. You won’t be able to see the padding, but you can feel it when you walk on the carpet. Padding is typically made from foam or rubber materials.
ATR090523
-
Having unwanted pests around your home can create major problems. Not only are the pests bothersome, but they can also do a lot of damage to your home. The good news is that there are several ways that you can prevent animals from damaging your property.
Clean Up
The best thing that you can do to prevent rodents from damaging your property is to clean up. Get rid of all of the debris and clutter. Pick up everything that might attract critters. If the area around your home is clean, then it will be less attractive to critters. Clean carpets will also prevent pests from taking up residence.
Secure the Trash
Critters are attracted to trash. That is why if you have a trash can outside of your property, then you will need to make sure that it is secured. Food waste should be put in a compost bin. You may also want to put the trash cans in your shed and garage. If you don’t have a shed or garage, then you should tie up the garbage cans.
Invest in a Chimney Cap
If your property has a chimney, then you should put a cap on it. This will not only keep the critters out, but it will also keep the rain out.
Get a Dehumidifier
Rodents tend to dwell in places that are humid and damp. You should invest in a dehumidifier. You should put a dehumidifier in the most humid places of your home, which are the attic, basement, or crawl space. A dehumidifier can keep the critters out.
Avoid Leaving the Food Out
Rodents and pests tend to go from place to place looking for food. That is why it is important for you to avoid leaving food out. If you have leftover food, then you will need to put it in a container. You should wash your dishes as soon you have finished cooking or eating. Additionally, you should wipe down your counters.
Keep in mind that pet food can also attract pests. You should feed your pets at specific times. Pick up the food as soon as your pet has finished eating.
Make All of the Necessary Repairs
A pest can enter through the small holes in your home. If there are any parts of your home that need to be repaired, then you should make them as soon as possible. You will also need to seal the cracks around the foundation and walls.
Hire a Pest Control Company
To be absolutely sure that pests, rodents, and other small animals stay outside where they belong. A professional pest control company will have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to ensure that pests go away and stay away.
-
You don’t want to try to handle an HVAC problem on your own. You need an HVAC contractor. However, you have to choose the right contractor. You will need to consider the following before you hire an HVAC contractor.
Proper Licensing And Credentials
It is illegal for an HVAC contractor to work without the proper credentials and licensing. However, some will try to do it anyway. You should make sure that your HVAC contractor is licensed and possesses the proper credentials. Hiring someone who is inexperienced may initially be cheaper, but it can cost you a lot more in the long run. You will have to hire a professional to fix the problem because an inexperienced person likely won’t do the job the correct way.
Better Business Bureau Rating
The Better Business Bureau is an organization that helps people find businesses that they can trust. You should check with the Better Business Bureau before you hire a contractor. If the contractor is reliable, then they will have an A+ rating from the Business Bureau Bureau.
Experience
HVAC contractors are trained to fix just about any type of problem that your HVAC system has. However, some contractors have more experience in certain areas than others. That is why it is important to find a contractor who has been trained to fix the specific issue that your HVAC system has. For example, if you have a commercial HVAC issue, then you should choose a contractor that has been trained to fix those issues.
Competitive Pricing
You want to choose a contractor who is within the price range that you have set. HVAC contractors should be transparent about their pricing. Any estimate that you get should be in writing. However, you should not choose a company that charges you the lowest price. The price may reflect the type of service that you will get.
Insurance
HVAC contractors will try their best to make sure that mishaps do not occur. However, they can still happen. That is why an HVAC contractor should have insurance to cover any mishaps that occur. If they don’t have insurance, then you may be the one who is responsible for paying for the damages.
Emergency Services
HVAC problems do not always occur during normal business hours. They may occur late at night or on the weekends. That is why it is important to choose someone who offers emergency services.
ATR041124
-
In order to have a healthy environment for you and your family to live in, you must clean your home. If you want your home to be as clean as possible, you need to use eco-friendly cleaning techniques. Here are five eco-friendly cleaning tips.
Make Your Own Cleaners
You don’t need to purchase cleaners from the store in order to thoroughly clean your home. You can actually make your own cleaners fairly easily. If you want to make an all-purpose cleaner, you need to mix four tablespoons of vinegar and two tablespoons of borax with 3 cups of very hot water. You can put this mixture in a spray bottle to clean your counters or cabinets. If you are wanting to make a window cleaner, you simply need to mix one part vinegar with one part water.
Read Ingredients On Products That You Use
If you already have store-bought cleaners on hand that you want to use, you really should read the ingredients first. Even if the label says it’s safe to use, you might find that it isn’t green or eco-friendly. This is why you need to read the ingredients on the packaging of the products. If you come across any ingredient that you aren’t familiar with, you can simply search online to find out if it’s safe. If you find that the product isn’t eco-friendly, you are better off not using it.
Freshen up Your Carpet With Baking Soda
It’s not uncommon for carpets to develop an odor, and they may need to be freshened up. Fortunately, you don’t have to turn to harmful chemicals to do this. Baking soda can get rid of odors that are being emitted from your carpet. Just sprinkle a few tablespoons on it, let it sit for several minutes, and vacuum your carpet.
The Power of Steam
Steam cleaning is a completely non-toxic and powerful method. Steam breaks up everything from baked-on food on kitchen surfaces, to mold and mildew in bathrooms. There are several steam-cleaning machines on the market that make this easy to do yourself. If you employ professional cleaners, be sure that they use steam cleaning methods for disinfecting and sanitizing rather than harsh chemicals. Steam carpet cleaning is the preferred method for many companies.
Use Natural Items To Freshen The Air
Your house may not smell as good as you’d like it. Don’t use an air freshener to add a fragrance to your home. Turn to natural items. Boil orange peels, cinnamon sticks, or cloves. You could also try baking a cake or cookies in order to create a sweet aroma in the air. If you like foliage, consider adding some indoor plants that emit an odor like Peace Lilies.
Don’t Bring Toxins Inside With You
You can have an eco-friendly home by not bringing toxins inside with you. Leave your shoes by the front door. They can track in dirt, animal feces, and basically anything that you have walked on throughout the day. Change your clothes as soon as you get home, and place them in the washing machine. They can be filled with things like bacteria and germs.
ATR012322
-
Electrical problems are scary because they not only damage your electrical appliances but also pose a risk to property and life. Hiring a professional electrician is essential because doing it yourself can bring more damage. The key reason behind this is that you lack experience in this field and you don’t have the required tools to fix these problems. Below are 5 common electrical problems and tips on how to fix them.
1. Back-stabbed Wires/Outlets
Back-stabbed wires can be termed wires with holes and cuts on them. Exposed live wires are dangerous to your life because they can cause electrocution when you come into contact with the exposed area.
Solution
To fix this problem in the right way, you have to turn off your power supply. Then, tightly tape the exposed area of the wire. The tape will only provide a temporary solution because after a short duration the tape might peel off making it more hazardous.
2. Frequent Bulb Burnouts
Many homeowners are tired of changing their bulbs now and then. Most of them blame the quality of the bulb forgetting that this might be a result of an electrical problem. There are several reasons why you’re experiencing frequent bulb burnouts. Some of these reasons include a tightly fixed bulb, high voltage, and improper aeration.
Solution
A homeowner should consider identifying if the holder is loose or depleted. If the holder is correctly fixed, it’s the high time you hire a professional electrician to find out what might be the main cause. This will save your house from frequent bulb burnouts.
3. Aluminum Wiring
Recently, many homeowners prefer copper wiring rather than aluminum wiring because they’re prone to house fires. The main reason behind this is that aluminum wire has a high oxidation level when conducting electricity. This is the reason why it causes electrical fire when it comes into contact with combustible materials such as plastic and wood.
Solution
Consider using copper wire because it doesn’t have the same oxidation properties that aluminum has. In addition, copper wire is cheaper as compared to aluminum. Copper wire minimizes the risk of electrical fires at a higher rate compared to aluminum.
4. Surges
Surges can also be referred to as transients. Surges are the lighting-fast striking of light. They are commonly caused by a high-voltage interruption in the flow of electric current. Transients normally occur in a split of a second. This is the main reason why they cause damage to any electric appliances connected at the moment.
Solution
Carefully check if there might be a problem with your wires. If the transients persist, consider consulting the right electrician.
5. No RCD or RCCB
RCD stands for the residual current device while RCCB stands for residual current circuit breaker. This device detects and prevents low voltage circuits in case there’s a current leak. If there’s an abnormal flow of current in your home, this device will automatically respond by switching off the main switch. Having an RCD device is essential because it will prevent the risk of electric shock.
Solution
Hire an electrician to correctly install the RCCB device to prevent electrocution that might happen due to electric leakage.
ATR031322
-
Our home must be kept clean and tidy, but achieving it requires a great effort, as it is sometimes complicated by lack of time. To do this, we give you 10 tips that will help you to achieve a clean and dust-free home.
1. Establish a daily routine
Make a list of the most important activities for you, such as washing clothes, sweeping, cleaning the bathroom, changing sheets… Distribute them throughout the week, according to the time you can spend each day.
- Monday: clean the windows.
- Tuesday: dust and sweep.
- Wednesday: wash clothes.
- Thursday: organize the closet.
- Friday: clean the kitchen.
- Saturday: change the sheets.
- Sunday: clean the bathroom
A similar routine will help you make your home organization easier. You will know in advance how much time you should spend each day and you can organize yourself better. Or you can use cleaning services and do not worry about the dirt in your home at all.
2. Do not have more than necessary
Many objects are essential, but before buying any ornament think that, in the long run, it can be a burden. Keeping the home clean is easier if the surfaces are clear. In addition, ornaments tend to accumulate dust and tend to favor disorder.
3. Use hooks and hangers
They are very useful to always leave in the same place and at hand objects such as keys, umbrellas, wallets… Even bags, scarves, or hats. This makes it easier not to forget anything before leaving home. Place them at strategic points.
4. Make the bed before leaving
Nothing is more relaxing than finding a clean and tidy bed after a hard day at work. In addition, it facilitates the cleaning of the room.
5. Wash the dishes after each meal
If you have a dishwasher, rinse the utensils and put them in until washing time. Otherwise, wash the dishes after each meal, dry them, and collect them. The kitchen will be cleaner and tidy. In addition, it is an important aspect to maintain hygiene and prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
6. Keep clothes organized
Use laundry baskets and keep clean clothes folded or hung in closets. This makes it easier to know what you can wear and whatnot, and avoid having clothes on the floor.
7. Clean the washing machine
To prevent mold, leave the lid of the washing machine open after each wash so that the moisture will evaporate. Remember to check the compartments for soap and fabric softener; they usually accumulate dirt that could be passed to clothes.
8. Pet grooming
If you have pets, take care of them. Animals can cause dirty floors and walls … if you keep your pet well-groomed you will avoid stains on the bed, insects, bacteria, and bad smells.
9. Leave everything in its place
Set a place for everything, and make sure you always put it in “your” place every time you use it. It will be easier to keep the home clean and tidy.
10. Immediately clean the stains
To anything that spills, you have a rag! It is more complicated to remove stains when they are dry.
Cleaning services or DIY?
The order and keeping the home clean and giving it a good appearance, help your life to be much more harmonious, and that stress decreases since you will feel really at ease. But if you do not want to spend 90% of your free time cleaning, you can use high-quality cleaning services that will do all the hard work for you. Any of your choices will benefit your home.
ATR081624