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Did you know that ancient Greeks and Egyptians invented the first heating and air-cooling systems? Since then, technology has evolved and inventors have introduced more precise temperature control. It’s been 400 years since the first thermostat was invented, and today’s models propose many features to maximize your indoor comfort.

How easy would it be to have your home set at the perfect temperature at any time? Well, it is now possible. Smart thermostats allow you to program your indoor temperature with your smartphone or tablet. So, if, for instance, you forgot to turn it off when you leave for an extended period, you can do it remotely. The new smart thermostats can even be programed differently according to your daily activities. New technologies help you relax, improve your comfort and allow you to save money. You will use fewer energy thanks to the right temperature setting and programming. Another advantage of smart thermostats is to alert you when a repair or maintenance is needed. They will remind you to contact your HVAC and heating specialist to schedule an appointment. You don’t have to worry about it anymore.

The word smart technology might be impressive, but be reassured. You don’t need to be a technician to manage your smart thermostat. They are easy to use with their digital and touch screens navigation. Built to propose intuitive programming, they are easy to operate with voice control. Estimations show that in the next five years, 70% of consumers will have a smart thermostat. It is a smart choice.

One of the most important appliances in your home is your furnace. Furnaces help to keep our homes warm and regulate the temperature when we are away for prolonged periods of time. However, unless you’re a professional, it may be difficult to tell when it is time to schedule the required maintenance. That said, the following is a list of reasons you may need to schedule furnace maintenance today.

Lack of Heat

One of the main reasons to schedule furnace maintenance is the lack of heat. If you have no heat at all or your unit seems to be underperforming, a lack of sufficient heat is a clear sign that your furnace needs to be serviced, if not outright replaced. However, given that they do not work if there is a power outage and many furnaces have on/off switches, it is best to check and make sure there isn’t some simple issue preventing it from properly functioning.

Clinks and Clonks

Another telltale sign that your furnace needs to be serviced is that it is making strange clinking noises. While all appliances make some level of noise, a furnace that seems to be banging, hissing, clicking, etc. is likely malfunctioning. For instance, a hissing noise may mean there is air escaping from your system, while a clicking noise may be an indication of a faulty flame sensor or even an issue with the gas flow. If you notice your furnace seems to be making much more noise than you’re used to, it is definitely time to call a trusted professional to have your furnace serviced immediately.

Rising Energy Costs

Another reason to have your furnace serviced is that you are dealing with increased energy costs as compared to previous years. This is because a malfunctioning furnace will fail to perform at optimal capacity, causing an increase in the amount of energy it takes to heat your home.  While this sometimes can be attributed to a price hike or an increase in usage, if you are paying far more to heat your home than you have in previous years, it is a good idea to have your furnace serviced immediately to rule out any issues with malfunctioning.

To Protect Your Family’s Health

Lastly, one of the best reasons to have your furnace serviced is that you want to protect your family. A malfunctioning furnace can cause issues such as electrical shortages, electrical fires, carbon monoxide leaks, a decrease in air quality, and more. If you have a concern about one or more of these issues, it would be best to schedule furnace maintenance as soon as possible.

Overall, there are plenty of reasons to have your furnace serviced. In addition to the listed reasons, experts assert that your furnace should be serviced annually, no matter if you are concerned or not. Either way, if you find yourself in need of furnace maintenance for any reason, this is not a DIY-friendly project. Be sure to contact a professional furnace repairman you can trust.

 

While a lot of people are happy to make the interior of their home look good, they often fail to consider their home’s exterior. If you would like your home to look good, you need to make sure you spend some time on its exterior. The good news is this article can help you with that.

Replace the Roof

If your home is looking like it needs a little love, consider replacing the roof. This will help it appear to be in better condition. It will also ensure that your home is well insulated. If you cannot afford to replace all of the roof you might want to replace the worst tiles or shingles. A newly fitted roof will help your home to look a lot more modern.

Clean the Driveway

If you would like a simple solution to tidying your home’s exterior you should consider power washing the driveway and any pathways that you have. A quick wash can make a world of difference as it gets rid of all the dirt and grime. It can also bring out your driveway’s natural color and make pathways look new once more.

Replace the Windows

If your windows are old you might want to consider replacing them. New windows will add more character to your home, especially if they are the same style as the property. New windows can also add a touch of security as they’re likely to be harder to smash. Replacing the windows will instantly transform your home and make it look more modern.

If you cannot replace the windows consider painting them so they look clean. White or cream are usually the best colors to use.

Paint the Front Door

Your front door says a lot about your home. If your front door is dirty or its damaged people will not have a good impression of your home. If you cannot afford to replace your front door or you simply don’t wish to, consider painting it. Exterior paint can breathe new life into your door. Consider painting the door a different color and cleaning any glass. Your door will look as good as new.

Clear Away That Clutter

Clear away any clutter that is kept outside your front door. Store your bins in a locked container or make sure they’re stored neatly. Clear away any leaves and trash. Sweep up stones that have made their way onto the pathways and weed any bits of grass that are growing in the middle of the path. A tidy front garden or entrance to your home makes a world of difference.

With a little bit of work, you can make your home’s exterior look good. You don’t have to spend very much money, you just need to know how to go about it. Replace the roof if you need to, clean your driveway and update your windows. Paint or clean your front door and, finally, clear away any clutter. Your home’s exterior will look so much better!

 

Over the years the average home needs a lot of maintenance and repairs. You may have to fix boards on a wood deck, refinish or paint the kitchen cabinets and install new screens to keep the bugs out. There may be remodeling projects that add to your home’s value and make it a more beautiful place to live. And, occasionally, you will face a major repair that is both costly and critical to keeping your house safe and sound.

It is estimated that the average home needs a new replacement roof every 25 to 30 years. When it’s time for a new roof you’ll need to carefully select the best contractor for the job. Your new roof is one of the biggest home investments you will make and choosing the right company for the project will save you money in the long run.

When you are screening and meeting with contractors and getting bids for your new roof, there are important things to look for and evaluate to assure that you select best firm for the job.

How Long Have They Been in Business

Roofing contractors can come and go, and in some states the average roofer lasts only a couple of years. You want to make sure you select a roofing company with a proven track record of serving customers in your area. Find out how long your roofing contractor has been in business and how many new roofs they have installed over the years.

Is Your Contractor Licensed

While the laws in every state are different, in general a roofing contractor must be licensed to operate in the state. Check with your state Department of Consumer Affairs or Contractor’s License board make sure their license is current and valid. These state agencies may also track complaints and adverse actions against the contractor so you can see how reliable and professional they are.

Do They Have Both General Liability and Worker’s Compensation Insurance

A professional roofing company should carry both worker’s compensation and general liability insurance. If they don’t have workers compensation insurance and one of their workers is injured replacing your roof, it’s likely the worker would come after you and your insurance to settle the claim. The contractor’s general liability insurance covers damage to your house and property. You should not hire a contractor without knowing they have the proper insurance policies in place.

What is the Warranty on the Roof

With the high cost of this project you will want to assure that the contractor offers at least a 25-year warranty on your new roof. You should also ask the roofing company for references for roofs done over the years and call some of the older customers to find out if they have ever had any problems with their new roof.

It’s important that you spend the time necessary to select the right contractor to install your new roof. By carefully researching your options, screening the companies and following up on references you will help assure that your contractor is professional and that the job will be done right.

 

It’s always a big change when your child gets ready to graduate from high school and head off to college. First, there are SAT or ACT admission tests and all the pressure that goes with taking those. Then the process of screening and selecting which college is right for your child begins. Don’t forget about figuring out how to actually pay the tuition and boarding. There will be campus visits and countless college application forms, and anxious days waiting for the acceptance letter and the celebration that goes with that good news.

Even once your child has selected their favorite university and been accepted, there are still a lot of items on the off-to-college check list. One of the biggest decisions to consider is where your child will live while they are attending college. Often students and their parents choose off-campus student housing over the typically crowded and outdated dorms. If your child will be living in off campus apartments, there are some key items to evaluate as you make a final decision that is right for all of you.

Affordability

Sending your child to college or university is very expensive, so it’s important to save money where possible. The best student off-campus housing providers will offer quality choices at a variety of price levels. You can often save money by renting an apartment that is shared with several roommates. Since all of the apartments have kitchens, you can also save significant money over the very expensive dorm student meal plans.

Location

When you live off-campus, choosing the right location is a top consideration. Ideally you should be within walking distance of the campus so you don’t have to deal with on-campus parking issues. It’s also great to be a quick walk away from grocery stores, coffee shops and other services you will need. Many students find that if they choose the right off-campus location they will not even need a car.

Safety

As a parent, one of the key issues you will want to evaluate is the safety of the apartment complex and the surrounding neighborhood. You should always visit the proposed rental locations, and walk through the complex and parking lot to see whether it feels good there. It’s also a good idea to drive the neighborhood during the day and again at night to see how everything is cared fo and how safe it is. You can also look online for safety statistics for the area.

Lease Terms

In most cases, parents will be asked to guarantee the lease. You should check which utilities are included with your monthly payment and look for any hidden charges. It’s also critical to find out whether you can sublet the apartment in the event that your child’s plans change. Without the ability to sublet you could be fully liable for paying the remaining amount on the lease even if your child was not residing there.

Moving from high school to college is a milestone event. After years of living at home, your child will be heading off to a completely new journey in life. By helping your child carefully evaluate their off-campus student housing options, you will be sure that you are giving them a great start to their college days.

 

If you are a homeowner, it’s likely that you’ve tried to save money by doing home repair or renovation projects yourself. With the right instruction or tutorials from the Internet and the right tools from a home improvement store you are often ready to tackle a new project on the weekend. Simple repairs and improvements to the home’s decor are often a big success.

There are some repairs, though, that are typically best left to a trained professional. One of the areas where it’s best to hire a certified technician is for electrical repairs. Working with electricity can be dangerous, and mistakes in wiring and other electrical upgrades can result in injury or even fatalities. There is a high potential for shock, fire or other major problems when electrical repairs are not done right.

Although you might be able to install a new ceiling fan, there are other repairs that should be done only by a qualified electrician.

Circuit Breakers Always Tripping

A circuit breaker might trip because there are too many high wattage appliances or items plugged into the same circuit. To avoid problems, try to not use the appliances simultaneously or rearrange things so they are plugged in on different circuits if you can. If the problems continue, you may want to call an electrician to add an additional circuit or possibly upgrade the electrical service in your home.

A Buzzing Sound Coming from Outlet or Switch

If you hear a buzzing sound coming from your wall switch or a power outlet, that’s a sign that there is a problem that needs quick attention. Sometimes this can be due to arcing, which is where the current jumps between metal parts instead of flowing smoothly though the path it’s supposed to take.

Electrical Shocks

When you receive an electric shock, it’s a reminder of just how dangerous electricity can be. Typically, these occur when you are in the process of turning something on or off. You could test whether the shock is from the appliance or the item that is plugged in, but there’s a chance you will be shocked again when you plug the new test item in. There may be a problem with a wire shorting, so it’s best to call an electrician on this.

Burning Smell or Odd Smell

If you ever sense a burning smell or an odd smell coming from an outlet, it’s probably time to call your electrician. A short can cause a spark, in turn creating the smell and possibly an electrical fire. You might also see a blackened area on the wall or the switch plate. If this occurs, do not use the outlet and turn off that circuit breaker until the issue is fully fixed.

While it is possible to do simple electrical installations of a new fan or light, it’s important to hire an electrician when you have electrical problems in your home. With electricity you can’t just ignore the problems and hope they go away. You need to hire a professional to make things right.

 

We all want to make sure that our radiators are working effectively and efficiently – after all, a poorly functioning radiator can leave you with more than just a cold room. Inefficient radiators can leave you with high heating costs, unexpected repair bills and more.

So which type of radiator is the best one to choose? Read on for the low down on how to choose the most efficient solution for you.

Faster heating – or longer lasting temperatures?

Aluminium is one of the best conducting materials available, and when used in radiators, this quality means that they can heat up much more quickly than other models. They’ll also often require less water to heat up for the same reason, requiring less energy from your heating system. In fact, compared to some other metals, an aluminium radiator can save up to 15% on energy usage overall, compared to other metals used for radiators.

However, while cast iron radiators can take longer to heat up, they provide efficiency in a different way, as they will retain heat and cool down much more slowly. They also tend to have a larger internal volume, so while they may take a little power from the boiler to heat up fully, in the long term, they can keep a room warmer, for a longer period.

So which one should you use? If you’re looking for quick heating in a smaller space, an aluminium radiator might be the most efficient solution for you, but if you’re looking for heat that will retain well in a space for a longer period, then you may want to consider cast iron radiators instead.

 

Environmental efficiency

How fast a radiator heats up isn’t the only sign of efficiency – the impact they have on the environment may also be another factor to consider. Both cast iron and aluminium radiators often come out on top on this – as they can be taken apart and recycled when they come to the end of their usefulness.

Boosting efficiency in other ways

Whatever your radiator is made of, you can still boost their efficiency in a number of other ways, by taking a few simple steps to ensure they are properly looked after.

One of the biggest causes of a poorly functioning and inefficient radiator is a build up of debris or lime scale, as this can block the flow of water around your heating system, forcing it to work harder and use more energy. By regularly paying attention to your radiators and monitoring tell-tale issues, such as making sure they’re clean and addressing any unusual noises or leaky valves, you can maintain efficiency for longer, as well as avoiding costly repairs.

Another way to keep your radiators as efficient as possible is by having a regular health check carried out. It’s a good idea to have your boiler and heating system looked over, at least once a year, just to address any burgeoning issues before they become serious.

 

These days everyone is looking for ways to save money. One way homeowners and renters can cut costs is by using less water. By solving the following four common plumbing and water usage problems, homeowners and renters can reduce water consumption and save money on their monthly water bills.

1. Leaks and Running Water

Continuously running water is a recipe for a high water bill. Keep an eye out for leaking faucets, toilets, appliances, and hoses. Sometimes all it takes to stop a slight leak is to add some plumber’s tape and tighten the connection. On some leaking faucets, washers can be replaced to solve the problem. In other cases the entire faucet should be replaced.

2. Outdated Faucets, Shower Heads, and Toilets

If you live in an older house or apartment, chances are the original builders weren’t as concerned about water over-usage as we are today. Upgrading old fixtures can improve the appearance and function of your plumbing system, while also cutting way back on the amount of water you consume each day.

Attaching an aerator to your faucets can greatly reduce the amount of water you’re using. Aerators are basically screens that are connected to faucet’s head. The aerator introduces air into the water, serving both to reduce the amount of water flow from the faucet and to increase the water pressure.

Low-flow toilets also cut down on water consumption. Most modern toilets are already designed to use less water, but if you’re sitting on a throne built in the 1980s or earlier, you may be sending a lot of extra water and money right down the drain. Install a modern low-flow model or convert your existing toilet by simply placing a sand and water-filled container in the toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used with each flush.

3. Old Water Heaters and Appliances

As appliances continue to improve in regard to energy efficiency and water usage, you may find yourself in a position where it makes sense to upgrade an old water heater, dishwasher, or washing machine. When you’re shopping for a new appliance look for the “WaterSense” label. The WaterSense label is a voluntary program initiated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help consumers quickly determine whether a given appliance has been approved by the EPA as water-smart. Appliances marked with this label will use at least 20% less water than their regular counterparts.

4. Wasteful Water Usage

One of the best ways we can cut down on our water usage and save money doesn’t cost a dime. It simply involves changing our behavior as we use water. Simple ways to cut down on water usage include: turning off the water while we brush our teeth, taking shorter showers, and not flushing the toilet after urinating.

Almost everyone can immediately cut down on their water usage and save money on their water bill. Getting an inspection of your plumbing system and talking to a professional HVAC consultant can give you a number of strategies for curtailing your water consumption.

 

In Brevard County, Florida, the hot and humid summers call for a lot of HVAC use. A regularly maintained HVAC system can last at least ten years, even if it’s being used constantly. Here are a few signs that you may need a new HVAC system.

The Age of Your HVAC Unit

Most HVAC systems are designed to last for at least ten years and can last even longer if they are regularly maintained. If your system is 15 years or older, you likely need a new HVAC system. A newer system will be technologically advanced and help you be more energy efficient.

Frequent Repairs

If you find that your system or equipment is in need of frequent repairs, it might be time for a new HVAC system. The cost of a new system might seem like a lot, but compared to the cost of repairs on each component or repeated service calls, it might be more cost-effective to get an entirely new system.

You Hear Excessive Noise

If you have been hearing excessive noise coming from your HVAC system, there could be a bigger issue and a new HVAC system might be the solution. Once parts of your system start to get overused, those components could break, causing the noisy machine. Again, a new system might outweigh the cost of continual repairs. An HVAC specialist can help you decide the best route to take.

Energy Bills are Higher Than Usual

Your HVAC system may be working overtime if it’s older, broken, or needs frequent repairs. This can increase energy usage, causing your energy bill to be higher than usual. Newer HVAC systems are made with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. This means that they have been rated for their energy efficiency by the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute and will use less energy to cool your home than your older HVAC system.

Your Home Has Humidity Issues

If your HVAC system isn’t performing well and humidity seems to be an issue in your home, it may be time to replace your system. While a dehumidifier might help mitigate some of these issues, your HVAC system works in conjunction with other equipment. If you find that it feels humid in your home, even with the air conditioning running, it may be time to get a new system, like a dehumidifier, that supports the other equipment in the home.

Hot and Cool Spots in Your Home

If your home has frequent hot and cool spots, there could be an issue with your HVAC system. You could check for leaks around your windows and doors, along with taking preventative measures like getting insulated curtains, but if there still seems to be problems with inconsistent temperatures, it may be time for a new system.

 

 

Bathrooms compared to other rooms of the house are smaller in dimensions and flooring for it can be laid out in less cost. The homeowners are on lookout of ways to make the transition to new floor cost effective. The trend among homeowners is to meticulously select cabinetry, tub, shower etc first and flooring material the last. This way they run out of budget and look for shopping options. They explore inexpensive but humidity resistant, anti-skid, and lasting material. There are several varieties of flooring that are budget-friendly, and they can have a pick.

If you are a homeowner with foresight, then maybe your bathroom has wooden floor. The matter can be solved by applying new paint to it which goes with the décor of the bathroom without spending a lot. A coat of enamel will safeguard the floor giving it a shine and it will last for several years. Repainting can be done by self and labour cost will be reduced.

Glazed ceramic tiles have a coating of melted glass which makes its surface not only glossy, but water and stains cannot penetrate it. It is easy to maintain. These tiles come in a variety of hues sizes, shapes and patterns. These tiles are not cheap, but one should remember that bathroom is a small space and it can be afforded. These tiles are laid out professionally. The tiles must be cut and fitted to right dimension. The tiles can be made to look like granite, slate or marble at less cost. Radiant under-floor heating can be fixed with the cover of these tiles.

Vinyl flooring are available as sheet vinyl which is an uninterrupted sheet and vinyl tiles. Tiles are fixed through glue. Both are suited for bathroom. There is a wide variety in colour texture printed and patterns because of new technologies. They can look like natural stone, wood etc. They are not costly. The layout may last for a decade. Luxury vinyl flooring is thicker and is laid out on planks. The planks are brought together by tongue-and-groove method. It keeps away water and stains. It is easy to maintain and comfortable under foot. Luxury vinyl can mimic wood and stone appearance.

Linoleum flooring is eco-friendly as it is manufactured by linseed oil. Water does not penetrate it and easy to maintain. The cost does not pinch the pocket. Concrete flooring is also in vogue in houses with modern setting. The cost is affordable. Concrete can be cleaned with ease through sweeping, mopping and washing.

If we think of the cost the gym rubber flooring price is not exorbitant. Rubber flooring is useable as tiles and pads. There are astonishing designs, and variety. The comfort is soothing. These are hygienic as well as safe. The rubber flooring is durable, and maintenance is easy. The price of the rubber is based on thickness and size. The stylish hues, and texture do not increase the cost. This can be laid out in gym, bathroom as well as other rooms.

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