Blog Page 54

Tips for Saving Water at Home

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Kitchen with grey kitchen cabinet
Used with permission of Kira David Design

When there are no water shortages in your area, it can be easy to take the abundance of water for granted. Tap water arrives consistently, at a reasonable price, and gets the job done for you every day. With everything it seems we cannot live without, maybe now is a good time to pamper yourself with high-end amenities and technology when it comes to your home. But before you go splashing out on that ultra-high-tech shower that pulsates and bubbles leaving you clean yet relaxed and pampered for hours on end, you should know how to save water at your home first.

Kitchen with grey kitchen cabinet
Used with permission of Kira David Design

Here are simple things you can do every day to conserve water and save money.

1. Fix leaks

Fixing small leaks can save hundreds of gallons of water every year and add up to significant savings. If you spot leaks, fix them now to save water and money. To combat leaks, look for signs. Check for damp patches on walls and ceilings, particularly near the kitchen and bathroom. Also, look for large puddles on your lawn that might be coming from your house.

If you cannot find the source of the leak, next look for signs of water damage around your ceiling. Look for holes in your drywall or wood as well as peeling paint and discoloration. If you can see signs of water damage from beneath your ceiling, then you must take action immediately because otherwise, mold may start growing and lead to much greater problems. Undetected ceiling leaks can not only damage the ceiling but also the walls, flooring, and even electrical wiring. Since ceiling damage and the leak is noticeable because they are high up and often hard to reach, it is best to call a professional as soon as possible. They will be able to pinpoint the source of the leak and repair any damage before it becomes worse.

2. Use makeup sponges

Makeup sponges are a great way to clean your makeup brushes without using water. Water is not the most sanitary option for cleaning brushes and is hard on the bristles, so if you are looking for a way to clean them that does not involve water, this is a great option.

Using a makeup sponge to clean your brushes is also very simple. You only have to wet the sponge and rub it on the bristles of your brush. Then you can rinse with cold water and dry flat or hang up to dry. It is that easy!

3. Use dishwasher to wash dishes

Used with permission of Alice Lane

Use the dishwasher to wash dishes rather than do them by hand. The modern dishwashers use far less water than washing by hand. If you have a newer home, this might be a high-efficiency model, which uses even less. You can also take advantage of fill cycles when you are running the dishwasher by filling pots and pans with water and putting them on the top rack or the glass shelves in the door. That way, you would not have to run another cycle just for those items.

4. Data Analysis and Visualization             

Water your lawn only when it needs it. Do not run sprinklers all day long or at night when they are not needed. It is also a good idea to install low-flow sprinklers for your lawn; these use about half as much water as regular models. You might also consider using a drip irrigation system. These are small, low-maintenance devices that can deliver water directly to plant roots instead of spraying them with large amounts of water. They work well in gardens and in larger landscapes where you do not want to waste water on space between plants. If you choose this route, also consider getting a rain gauge so you can turn off the system during rainy periods and make sure you’re watering only when necessary.

To determine if your lawn needs watering, use the “finger test.” Stick one or two fingers into the soil to see how much moisture is present. If you cannot grab any dirt with your fingertips, it is time to water.

5. Spend less time in shower

During the summer months, when families are more apt to be taking longer showers, it is especially helpful to be aware and make a conscious effort to reduce the amount of water used in the shower. One great way to do this is to start an incentive program with your family members so that everyone tries their best to complete their showers in the shortest amount of time possible. Aim for five to seven minutes in the shower. Turn the temperature down a little lower than you normally would, and turn off the tap while shampooing your hair or soaping up your body. This will help reduce the overall amount of water used by your household.

Bathroom with suspended lights and bath tub
Used with permission of Millhaven Homes

6. Turn off faucets when unnecessary             

When you are in the shower, turn off the water while you lather up. The same goes for brushing your teeth and shaving. If you are unable to find any leaks or dripping faucets, try to make sure that the faucet is not running when it does not need to be.

7. Replace hose with broom and bucket             

If you need to clean your car, do not waste water by using a hose. A broom and bucket will do the job just as well — and save water in the process. A typical hose uses about 5 gallons of water every minute when operated at full pressure whereas using a broom reduces the amount of wasted water by about 90 percent.

Conclusion

The little things you do at home can add up to big water savings over time. By following a few simple tips that make use of existing tools and resources, you can take big steps towards making your water footprint less substantial. These tips might not immediately solve all of your water needs, but they are steps in the right direction.

Thanks to all the companies linked above.

A Guide to Creating a Wonderful Rustic Designed Space

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House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

Rustic designs are an excellent way to create an outdoor feeling in and even outside your home. Some of the popular designs are cottage, Tuscan, coastal and many more that have a rough, natural and aged look. Are you thinking of trying this style for your space? Well, this guide will cover some of the tips to create that fancy rustic designed space you have been craving for.

Revive your interior design

House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

You can achieve magic with the interior of your house by giving it a warm, contemporary feel. For example, you can create a vintage fireplace and a wall in stacked stone. You can also create some creative art from reclaimed materials, including a vase of flowers or even a rattan chandelier.
Wood beams in the roof of your house will also give it a rustic farmhouse feel. They are also genuinely elegant and appealing to the eye. Wood beams in your roof will give a country feel and add the desired architectural flair to your home. When you install the wood beams in the kitchen, outside verandah, and the living room, you can attain that cool style to get your house looking super vintage.
A crafts-man style door should complete the home’s aesthetics. The wood entry door style provides a warm welcome into the home. You don’t have to pull off a massive project. Instead, you can replace your doors to create an effectively rustic feeling.
Tip: You can also add plants to create nice green space.

Use handmade rustic furniture

Used with permission of Blackband Design

Handmade furniture creates a natural theme in your house and creates a rustic feeling. It exudes simplicity and uniqueness in design and shape, giving you a break from modern furniture. The rustic furniture is designed to feel extremely comfortable. Get raw logs, boards, or even stone to create that extravagant rustic feel in your space. You can check out Chattanooga rustic home decor for some of the best furniture to help transform your space.
You can also go for reclaimed wood from a barn if you are a fan of DIY. It will give your home a natural look and authentic feel that translates to a rustic home. Putting it together on a wall will extend the outdoor country feeling inside your house. Besides, you can use reclaimed wood to make a masterful dining table that offers a mixed texture to your living room.

Get the lights right

Lighting plays a crucial role when creating a rustic feeling or decoration. You can incorporate in your lighting a lamp supported on a truck. They are a great way to enhance that rustic style in your interior and exterior space. Again, you can go for rustic style light fixtures that can create the desired environment and provide a feeling of simplicity.

Wrapping up

View of living room from hall
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

Getting your house to feel rustic does not have to cost you an arm and a leg. You just need to have ideas that, if implemented, will make it feel like you are in a natural relaxing space. Yes, using some rustic furniture like wooden logs for furniture and the likes will certainly give your space a natural countryside feeling. There are tons of excellent rustic design ideas on places like Pinterest. Just borrow some ideas and get creative!

Thanks to sweetmagnolias.net for consulting.

How Do I Get My Garage Door Repaired?

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Your garage door is an essential element in the operation of your house. Unfortunately, since they are used so frequently and because they are equipped with moving components that are subjected to the weather, our garage doors break occasionally.

Today, we’ll show you how to get your garage door back on track swiftly so you can get back to living your life.

Important Functions of a Garage Door

A garage door is one of the most essential items in your home that keeps you, your family, and your valuables safe. Garage doors come in a variety of designs and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose: to keep the objects within your garage secure.

Garage doors might break for a variety of reasons. The door may not open or shut properly, it makes a lot of noise when it moves, and the garage door may just stop working altogether. If you’re having trouble with your garage door, the first thing you should do is call a professional. Attempting to repair a non-functioning garage door on your own might be dangerous and result in additional expenditures in the long run.

Free Estimates

If you need an estimate for your garage door repair, the simplest, quickest, and most effective approach to get one is to call a professional garage door repair company. You’ll want to contact at least three businesses in order to have a thorough understanding of what services are available in your region. Request quotes from various garage door repair firms by calling or going online.

Some businesses do not provide free estimates, but many do. As a result, it’s unlikely that you’ll spend anything extra except for a few minutes of your time to find out how much garage door repair will set you back.

Locating Garage Door Repair Services

Simply do a quick internet search or ask around for recommendations from family and friends to discover reliable repair companies in your region. Check the company’s ratings on whatever search engine you’re using, read through customer comments and reviews, and visit their website to learn more about what they offer.

Once you’ve identified the garage door services you want to employ, ask yourself if you feel they will perform well. Do they provide a better customer experience than their competitors, according to the reviews I read? If both answers are yes, then you’re on your way to resolving your issue.

What to Do After Speaking With Several Repair Companies

After you’ve spoken with a few garage door providers and chosen the one you want to work with, you must schedule an appointment with the repair staff so they may come out and assess the damage and begin working.

Garage door maintenance and repairs generally take a day or two to complete, however, some more complicated repairs might take longer.

How can you tell what’s a serious, long-term garage door repair? When you call for your free quotations, ask about this. The professionals will be able to determine that for you and provide a timetable for the repairs.

Need a New Garage Door?

If you’re looking for garage door services and want to buy a new garage door rather than repair your current one, we can assist you with that as well.

If you’re seeking a company that specializes in new garage door installation, look for it the same way you would if you were searching for garage door repair services. It’s probable that the firm you’re already considering that repairs garage doors also does new garage door installation.

This is especially true in the case of residential garage doors. Many garage door firms provide services that include everything from servicing garage doors, garage door springs, and openers, as well as garage door installation for new garages. Garage door preventative maintenance, repair, and replacement are also common.

Make sure you pick a garage door company with employees that provide excellent service. You’d also want a garage door business that provides garage doors that have received great product performance evaluations. That way, you can be certain they’ll discover the ideal garage door for you, whether to increase curb appeal or enhance your dream house after selling it.

Find Reliable Repair Services

Finding competent garage door repair services may appear to be a hassle since you just need the work done swiftly. However, thanks to internet reviews and GPS-driven search engine results, it’s now easier than ever to do your own research and locate and vet repair providers.

Before you choose one service, look at three or more companies and get free estimates. If it’s late at night and you need assistance right away, make sure the businesses you examine offer both 24-hour and same-day services. Thanks to Overhead Door for consulting

What Events and Occasions are Appropriate for Wearing a Fedora Hat?

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Men in a suit wearing fedora hat
Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

Fedora hats feature a medium or short brim with a flexible design protecting the wearer from weather elements. It comes with three dents, one at the top and two on either side. Another way people describe the headwear is by calling it an indented crown. You must be wondering why the fedora hat is becoming the center of the story. It is because the headwear with a ribbon surrounding its base and a fashionable appeal has become the talk of the town. Of all the headwear available in the market, men’s fedora hats are the most fashionable and iconic headwear. If you want to create an identical impression and look stylish in the crowd, you can adorn a fedora hat.

What is the right time to flaunt a fedora hat?

Men in a suit wearing fedora hat
Photo by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

You may feel that fedora hats are mainly for formal occasions. Irrespective of this, various cultural niches have used fedora hats in indistinct versions. For instance, well-known urban wear designers have come up with unique fedora hats to cater to the crowd. Fedora hats are best worn in cooler months when the temperature is down but not that chilly. If you want to stay in style, you can also wear it for whole days, just like the Panama hat. If you desire comfort and ventilation, you can rely upon the fedora hat.

Multiple outfits and occasions call for a fedora hat. For instance, you may wear fedora hats when attending a wedding or other outdoor event. It is a snappy accessory that suits dress shirts and formal slacks. More so, you can also wear fedora hats when attending a dance party. There are a few myths that fedora hats don’t suit casual occasions. However, it is not valid. If you feel like dressing up in an ordinary suit or dressy clothes, you can wear fedora hats with it.

It is a great idea to pair casual outfits with fedora hats when attending outdoor events. You may go for the straw fedora, understanding that it looks ideal for these events. It gives an everyday appeal that makes you feel breathable and artistic at the same time.

Where will you get your fedora?

Fedora hat hanging on the wall and room decorations on the small table
Photo by Kara Eads on Unsplash

Hat shops are widely available in the market to cater to your requirement. You may also find fedora hats in boutiques, department stores, online stores, and other local shops. You will be amazed to see multiple options where people sell these adorable and stylish hats even today. You may bargain and get headwear that upgrades your outfit. Try to take the help of online stores like Americanhatmakers.com, which has become the final go-to for hat lovers. Try to compare different options and see what suits your face and appearance.

Where did fedora get its name?

Although men wore fedora hats, if you look at history, you will understand that the name comes from a Princess named fedora in 1882. It is a play written by a distinguished writer where the lead character had the name fedora. These luxury hats got confined to the aristocratic section of society. However, it has penetrated down with time, and every part of society got a taste of this headwear.

Is fedora ideal for casual clothing?

The typical answer to this question is no. Men’s fedora hats are popular because of a few settings and features that give them a formal touch. It provides you with a polished look that suits classy attire. However, you can wear it in a casual get-together when you pair it with nice shirts, blazers and a pair of jeans. The short-brimmed fedora hats are best for an everyday event. It all depends on how you flaunt your fedora and create a stir with this magnificent piece of attire.

What is the correct way of wearing a fedora?

Used with permission of Kira David Design

Now you must be thinking about how you will wear the fedora? To follow new style tips that the hat fits your head. See that it is not too tight or too large for your head. You would not want it to drop on your forehead. For getting the best fit, you may take the help of the size chart available in the stores. Try to put every option on your head and see which one makes you look most attractive. If you feel that one option does not suit you, go for the next one. Try all the options till you find the one that makes you look confident and comfortable.

There are multiple varieties of fedora hats available in the market. It is in terms of material, crown shape, brim size, and much more. You have wool, straw and felt fedora hats. The option you must buy largely depends on what you wear and the occasion you are attending. More so, the climate and your sense of style also dictate your purchase.

Thanks to americanhatmakers.com for consulting.

Reasons to Use High-Quality Banners in Trade Shows

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Trade show and people walking
Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Trade shows are events where salesmen get the chance to talk face-to-face with their clients. Walk around any exhibition hall and you’re sure to see numerous banner stands.

Why do banner stands work so well in these settings?

Here are some reasons why banner stands, banner ads, banners – whatever you want to call them – are an effective advertising technique for trade shows:

Banner advertisement

Trade show and people walking
Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash
  • When people see a banner advertisement, they’re usually curious about what it has to say. It piques their interest, and that’s the first step in establishing a connection between your business and its customers. A banner is also a physical object that can be taken away from a trade show – something you don’t get with traditional advertising methods such as TV ads.
  • In other words, banners have tangible value. Potential clients can study them at length when they get home, so banner advertisements are more likely to result in word-of-mouth marketing than other forms of advertising because of this unique characteristic. Banners establish brand awareness better than commercials because people remember banner ads better than advertisements they see on their TV screens.
  • Banner ads are also cost-effective because banner stands are usually cheaper than print ads, especially when you consider banner stands’ long shelf life. Printed banner advertisement
  • Printed banner advertisements run for a limited time only, but banner ads remain around after the trade show for as long as people can remember their contents. Banner stands do not go obsolete easily because banner designs are typically simple, featuring high-contrast colors and text that’s easy to read. Since banner advertisement prices vary according to how much space is taken up by text and other elements, you can get away with using relatively small banners for your trade show advertising needs.

Why Are Banners Effective For Trade Shows?

Used with permission of Jane Beiles Photography
  • Companies may spend thousands on banner advertisements for trade shows, but the benefits of banner stands often outweigh the costs. Compared to other forms of advertising such as TV commercials and print ads, banner stands provide better value for money because they’re useful long after the event is over.
  • Since banner ads are printed in small sizes, banner advertisement prices are also relatively cheap compared to print ad prices.
  • Banner advertisements are also memorable – people remember billboards more than ads they see on TV or in magazines because banners occupy them for much longer periods of time. They may only spend a few seconds watching your commercial before changing channels, but banner recipients can keep your banner stand around as long as they want before disposing it later.
  • After examining these reasons why banner advertisement work so well in trade shows, banner stands are likely to be promoted more frequently as time goes by.
  • Banner stands are a great way to advertise your business. They’re relatively cheap compared to print ads, but effective. Do you have any other reasons why you love using banners? Share them in the comments! You can find a lot of different types of custom-made banners here.

Conclusion:

3D stands are one of the most popular types of trade show displays. They’re eye-catching because they stand out from other types of tradeshow booth design. Tradeshow goers will remember your company better if you use a 3D display to market to them. If you want more information on tradeshow displays, check out our article here! Why Use A 3D Display?

A lot of companies think that opting for cheap 3D print ads is the best way to go when it comes to establishing brand awareness. While cheap laser cut banners may be perfect for advertising smaller products, 3D stands are often necessary for promoting large items such as cars, boats, and smartphones.

Thanks to bannerbuzz.ca for consulting.

Best Wall Decor Ideas

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Living room with shelfs, plant and armchairs
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Your house could have the most beautiful and elegant furniture, but if the walls are bare, your decor will look unfinished. Indeed, bare walls can make a room look boring and unappealing, so to avoid this issue, it’s a good idea to think of different wall decorations that could complement each room in your house. There are many options to choose from, including wall art, wall hangings, and mirrors, so read on to discover the best wall decor ideas for your home.

Living room with shelfs, plant and armchairs
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Wall art:

One of the most obvious solutions to a bare-looking wall is to hang up some wall art. This can include abstract pieces, illustrations or photos of famous scenery, or canvas prints. In particular, canvas prints can be a great addition to your Christian Wall Decor, especially since there are many online services, such as Hello Canvas, that will print your treasured photos on high-quality material. By ordering these canvas prints, you can display your photos of holiday destinations or your family photos in your home. This will brighten your mood whilst also adding much-needed decoration to your walls.

Another great idea that would effortlessly add character to any plain-looking wall is to showcase replicas of cool armor, weaponry, or historical apparatus. Stuff like medieval claymores, scimitars, and Khopesh swords are easy favorites. Props and gizmos from different eras, video games, and fictional cultures are also fantastic alternatives to decorate your space.

Mirrors:

Mirrors are also fantastic for decoration. Mirrors are usually used for checking your appearance, but they’re also great for adding some decoration to your walls and even making your room look larger by reflecting light. Placing a mirror perpendicular to the window will create the best effect for brightening the room and making it seem bigger than it really is. 

Bedroom with table, mirror and plant
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Clocks:

Like mirrors, clocks are also multifunctional. For practical reasons, clocks are a great wall decoration since they’ll help you to always be on time, but for aesthetic reasons, clocks are also desirable because they can be found in a multitude of designs. If you prefer a minimalistic look, you could opt for a faceless clock design that simply shows the frame and hands, or if you like traditional styles, you could buy a clock with a classic wooden frame and Roman numerals.

Shelves:

Shelves are perfect wall decorations because they allow you to display so many different items. For example, you could display photos, trinkets, souvenirs from your travels, books, plants, or even awards and trophies if you have them. The shelves themselves can also be a crucial part of the decoration if you choose the right material and colour to complement the room.

Wall hangings:

Living room with coffee table with flower decoration
Photo by Curology on Unsplash

Tapestry wall hangings are particularly good decorations for your bedroom since they can create a softer, more comfortable atmosphere. Depending on your preferences, you could choose abstract patterns, bold colours, or even a particular artistic image. Surrounding the wall hanging with fairy lights can complete the warm and inviting ambience, creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed weeknight with the family or a romantic date night with your partner. 

With the five ideas listed above, you’ll have plenty of inspiration for decorating your home. Now, in addition to having the right furniture and a beautifully coordinated colour scheme, you can complete your perfect home with the best wall decorations to suit each room. 

Thanks to hellocanvas.co.uk for consulting.

The 3 Common Decorating Mistakes To Avoid

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Bright designed living room with sofa, armchair and coffee table
Used with permission of Jack Gardner

When you make some mistakes decorating your home, at least the only people to realize it are the guests that pop over. When you make decorating faux pas outside your home then they are on full display for everybody to see.

That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t care about how you decorate inside since only your friends and family will see. You should make sure that your home is as cozy and delightful as possible when you have people over but also for yourself.

Bright designed living room with sofa, armchair and coffee table
Used with permission of Jack Gardner

In this article, we will go over several mistakes that are common when decorating your home.

1. Too much white

White paint is good as a base to keep the rooms bright and airy. However, too much white is overwhelming. It lacks texture and depth and ends up making the space look sterile.

It’s ok to paint most of the room white but try to add some accents. For instance, one wall can be painted another color to break up so much white. Or, you can add a border about halfway up the wall with either another color on the bottom half or, use some peel-and-stick wallpaper panels with whatever design you like. Distressed wood gives a cool and rustic effect that works well with white.

2. Wrong window treatments

Window with flowers and statues
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

Often the right decorating scheme is ruined by the wrong window treatments. Usually, it’s because the drapes or curtains are the wrong pattern or material. For instance, if your theme is a rustic country look and you have thick, red velvet drapes, they ruin the entire look of the room.

Another issue is that there should be the right length curtains for the windows. Curtains that are too short look funny and out of place. They make the room look completely out of sorts. Such a small detail can make for a much more powerful mistake than many realize. The ideal length of drapes is that they are right above the floor or even gently skimming it.

3. Too many themed rooms

It’s ok to have an overarching theme for the entire house. Even just a single room with a theme works, too. Having many rooms with their own themes competing with each other is something that is all too common a mistake. It creates a totally disjointed feel for the home and takes away from any efforts to make it comfortable.

Bright-designed bedroom
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

When you have these contrasts, it can end up creating a feeling that’s unsettled. And often, a theme will eventually get boring and you’ll feel the need to redecorate.

Instead of doing this, you should try to have a design style that ties the whole house together. Don’t make it over the top or too perfectly coordinated. Just have a decorating style rather than an actual theme. A country barn style that incorporates elements in a way that is harmonious is the idea. Or, a Mediterranean villa with accents of wood and stone works very well.

Thanks to wallplanks.com for consulting.

Should You Try A DIY Approach To Home Security?

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House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

The world is a dangerous place!

You know you need to do everything to keep your home, family, and hard-earned belongings safe from criminals.

If just talking about home security does make you feel its importance, perhaps the following statistic will!

Almost 2 million home burglaries happen every year in America. That means the time difference between two consecutive burglaries is only 13 seconds.

As we speak, a home is being looted!

– What makes it easy for thieves to get into homes?

– It’s the lack of a home security system!

A home without the right security is like an open door for thieves. Before selecting a house for conducting the crime, Thieves ensure that the homes do not have a home security system. If a home has a security system, thieves avoid looting that house.

House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

Why Is Home Security Important?

Only 17% of the houses have any kind of home security system in America! And thieves know that.

The lack of a home security system allows the thieves to enter the home through the unlocked doors, windows, garages, or basements.

Knowing these statistics will give you an idea of why having a home security system in place is a good decision. To know more about the importance of home security, you can talk to a professional. If interested, visit now to get the best quote.

Having said that, you might now wonder which method (DIY or Hiring professional) is the best to install a home security system.

Both are possible. But to understand which brings the tailor-made solution, it’s best to understand the differences.

DIY Vs. Professional Home Security: Which One To Choose?

When someone compares DIY and professional home security installation, the first thing that comes to their mind – How can you compare the two? Although both approaches try to achieve the same thing, they are different by a huge margin.

When it comes to professionally installed home security systems, there are many companies offering their services. Some have been into the business for decades and have earned a stellar reputation.

In the case of DIY, you can get all the gadgets and products to install in your house, but without the knowledge to use them, they are just used less. To use them, you must go through a learning curve.

Here are the feature comparisons that will help you understand the differences.

1. Plans & Contracts

When you are Doing-It-Yourself, you just need to invest in the equipment and need to purchase an extra plan for monitoring purposes. This plan can vary from $5 to $100, depending on your needs. 

However, the same thing cannot be said for the professionals’ home security system. There is a bottom line you need to maintain with professional home security. In addition, the monitoring charges are higher than the DIY projects.

There are small home security upgrades; doing it yourself might be a great way to save money. However, if there are some major installations, seek professional help.

Living room with big windows, sofa, coffee table and TV
Used with permission of Meg Lonergan

2. 24/7 Monitoring

24/7 monitoring is one of the popular features while people go for a professional home security system. Different devices are connected to one security system and track any movement.

You can customize the alarms based on the security levels. With the integration of smart devices, you can get notifications on your smartphone. You can see who is trying to enter your house with just a click.

On the other hand, DIY only allows self-monitoring. That means you need to be present in the room actually to find who is trying to break in.

3. Customization

Customization is one of the reasons why most people go with the DIY approach. But, on the other hand, the professionals doing the home security installation for you plan most of the things and are rigid with the plans.

However, with DIY, you can’t plan everything for yourself. Instead, you can use the equipment you like and however you like.

Professional home security services come with a price that might not fit your budget. In that case, going with the DIY might be a good option. However, you might not be able to get all the devices in place.

But, hey, at least you are within the budget.

4. Price

The price for the equipment set up by a professional or by yourself is the same; the only factor determining the price change is how you will use the equipment. 

Packages for the equipment set by the professionals will generally cost more than a DIY project. The reason is simple – Hardware and monitoring services.

Yes, after reading professional services cost more, you might bend towards DIY projects. But do so after knowing the pros professional services bring to the table.

Bright designed bedroom with double bed, armchairs and as sofa
Used with permission of Massucco Warner

5. Customer Support & Warranties

While you are contemplating which method is best for installing a home security system, do not forget about the customer services and warranties.

When you are doing DIY projects and installing equipment on your own, you have to keep track of every equipment’s warranty period and needs to ensure everything runs smoothly.

But with the professional services, you can leave all these tasks to them and focus on spending quality time with friends.

Should You Try A DIY Approach?

Now you know the differences both the methods cater to. It is up to you to decide which method is right for you. 

While you are considering both the methods, try to look for quality and the type of protection they offer. This will help you make better decisions with your selection.

The important thing is that you take your time to understand the right security for your family, home, and belongings and give them what they deserve.

Thanks to smiththompson.com for consulting.

8 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs To Be Replaced

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Designed living room
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

Your residential heating and cooling system is a significant investment for a good reason. It provides you with the utmost comfort when outside temperatures can be unforgiving.

Having an efficient air conditioning unit during the summer, for instance, helps improve sleep quality. Cold temperatures can also help increase productivity, primarily working from home or having kids with virtual classes.

When an air conditioner isn’t fully cooperating, it helps know if you need a new one. Below are the eight signs that your air conditioner needs a replacement. 

Designed living room
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

1. Frequent Breakdowns

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioner or HVAC maintenance should ideally be done at least once a year. Setting your unit for regular preventive maintenance helps increase its lifespan or spot potential issues before they worsen.

If this isn’t possible and you find yourself calling your nearest heating and cooling professionals more often than you should, it can be a sign that it’s no longer serviceable. Purchasing a new unit and investing in AC installation in Beaumont, CA, or wherever you are located can be more cost-effective, being that you no longer have to rack up bills for frequent repairs.

2. Drastic Increase In Electricity Bills

There may be several reasons for an uptick in power bills, but if there’s no change in your consumption patterns, it could be a telltale sign of a problem. An air conditioning unit will have issues with efficiency for many internal and external reasons. You can check your insulation and temperature sealing properties or leaks in the system. Regardless, have the unit checked as it may be working past its expiration.  

3. Your AC Is Outdated

Most air conditioners work until they reach 15 years, some less than a decade. If it’s been about a decade or so since your air conditioning system installation and if you’re currently having problems with it, start shopping around for a new one.

Like other machines, an AC unit is subject to wear and tear. The older it gets, the more vulnerable it is to need repairs.

4. It Can’t Do Its Work

Wall with images in living room
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

An air conditioner needs a fair amount of time to keep your room temperature low, especially when it’s scorching outside. If you’ve noticed, however, that the unit gives off warm instead of cold air, then you probably have to start looking for a new one.  

Air conditioners exist to give you comfort when the house gets too warm. That way, you spend a significant sum on HVAC replacement costs or installation. If you’re not feeling refreshed while using your AC unit, there has to be something wrong.

5. An AC That Turns On and Off Non-Stop

The air conditioner’s thermostat is crucial because it measures ambient temperature and adjusts the cooling intensity. More advanced HVAC systems have self-adjusting thermostats, while smartphones can control some.

No matter the type of system you have, a thermostat must communicate and control the air conditioner. Moreover, if you notice your unit turning on and off and shutting for several minutes or some sections aren’t cooled well, these can be signs that either your thermostat or AC is failing and you need a new AC fast.

6. You Hear Strange Noises

Air conditioners may not be the most silent of all electrical devices. But it shouldn’t be the noisiest too, especially if it’s working well. Grinding, scraping, and other types of irritating noises generated by your air conditioner is a red flag. These sounds may indicate something wrong with the motor or parts and forget about getting your cooling unit fixed. 

7. Your AC Smells Funny

View from the hall, living room with round chandelier, chair and window with curtains
Used with permission of Colleen Duffley

If you’ve had your air conditioner for quite some time and it starts smelling weird, it can be a sign that the unit needs a replacement rather than a repair. For instance, if your AC unit smells like car exhaust, the refrigerants may be leaking. Similarly, a burnt smell might indicate a serious electrical issue, while a musty odor could mean molds forming inside the unit or ducts. In these cases, a replacement may be to preserve safety and health. The same is true if you see molds forming near the walls where the AC is placed. 

8. Weak Air Flow

Your air conditioner may show signs of weak airflow before emitting warm air in some cases. When the former happens, you notice cold air blowing when you turn on the unit, but the emission is so weak it can’t circulate in your living space, leading to weak energy efficiency and high energy bills. A faulty compressor is likely to blame, and you may be better of buying a new unit than having the compressor replaced.

Conclusion

As a complex heating and cooling mechanism, your HVAC system can fail for several reasons. The same holds for an air conditioner consisting of several individual and interconnected parts. 

Hopefully, the red flags discussed earlier will serve as a guide in helping you recognize potential problems with your air conditioner. While yearly maintenance is needed to help your unit stay in top shape, it helps to know what to look out for in your cooling system to decide how to move forward.

Thanks to eandvenergy.com for consulting.

4 Organization Hacks to Use When Nothing Else Works

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Detached wardrobe rack with clothes
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Staying organized is an art, and not everyone is a pro at it. But that shouldn’t stop you from learning the basics and using smart hacks to make the best out of tricky situations. Seeing the clutter in closet, bedroom or kitchen could quickly motivate anyone to become more organized, but how do you fix it? It is often a relatable question regarding cleaning, remodeling and organizing home and workplace.

It is essential to stay organized as it helps you think and see better. It is helpful for quickly finding stuff, which means you can manage your time better. It is also conducive to helping out with daily chores, as the more organized your house is, the easier it is to clean.

Detached wardrobe rack with clothes
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

However, it’s one thing to organize a space and the other to keep it that way. Once you find the motivation to keep everything in their respective places, you have reached the top. But how to keep it that way? Here are some excellent hacks from professional organizers which can help you out when nothing else works:

1. Storage Units

You may not realize it, but many items in your home are only there because of your emotional attachment to them. While many would tell you to ‘just get over it’ and replace them or throw them out, there would still be a part in you to think they might come in handy someday. Here’s an excellent option – storage units!

If you’re looking for a reliable company near you, then you might want to try searching on google to find a perfect fit out of thousands of options. Let’s say you’re in California in Ventura County; look up storage Thousand Oaks or storage solutions in Ventura.

Each facility comes with different options and features. For example, the best option in thousand Oaks offers more than fifty sizes with easy accessibility and reasonable prices. These storage units also offer you peace of mind with exceptional security, so you can store anything that’s currently taking up space, but you may need it later.

Storage helps you stay more organized and is an excellent option under many circumstances. It’s also particularly useful for temporarily storing items when you’re moving homes or accommodating guests on an extended stay.  

2. Compartmentalize

Bedroom cabinet and a mirror
Used with permission of Kira David Design

Grouping similar items can help avoid a cluster of things and make your space look organized. There are several compartmentalizing hacks, including those for drawers, closets, pantries, and even the tiniest spaces like under the bathroom sink. These small compartments can help you store various items and then access them easily in need.

For instance, you can assign one drawer of your kitchen for spices and, with a few wooden panels, organize jars in a way that makes accessing them more manageable. The key is to make all the jars similar in shapes and sizes, so you don’t have to put too much time into fitting them in like a puzzle. You can further label the jars for your ease. A similar concept could apply to a kitchen drawer for spoons. Different sizes of spoons are segregated by the drawer compartments, so you can easily pick up the one you’re looking for instead of fumbling around. Even when you can’t think of any other organization hack or have run out of money to invest on a compartmentalizing rack, you can easily try DIY hacks!

3. Purge Thoughtfully

It is essential to understand that organizing your space necessitates you to minimize the items to maximize the space. Hence, purging is a vital activity that you must use in your organization routines. For instance, that piece of clothing or pair of shoes you brought because they were on sale and now, they don’t fit in your current styling aesthetics – it’s time to let them go!

Similarly, get rid of any damaged object or something that doesn’t excite you anymore instead of wasting the available space. Suppose you’re organizing your closet; the Marie Kondo way asks you to gather all the clothes in one place and sort through them while categorizing them. Make a pile of pieces you want to wear now, another one for later, and the last one for never. And then purge the ones in the last pile, either by throwing away, recycling, or selling out. This way, you will be tidying up the items in your possessions, making organization easier.

4. Utilize Vertical Space

Cabinet with in the hall
Used with permission of Kira David Design

One of the imprudent mistakes many homeowners make is ignoring all the vertical spaces because they seem too narrow for specific items or too high for others. But there are infinite secrets to utilizing vertical spaces efficiently.

For instance, you can easily use the vertical space between your two closets as a hanging place for bags, scarves, belts, and necklaces simply by adding on some hooks. Similarly, you can utilize vertical spaces in your kitchen by adding shelves so that things don’t pile up on one another and are stacked correctly in their places. Some kitchen items like cutting boards and pot lids are best stored standing up in a vertical position. You can also apply the idea of shelves in your home library by stacking up books and creating a ceiling-length bookshelf. The ones that you don’t read frequently can go on top shelves. If all this seems a little overwhelming to you, start with baby steps and begin with just finding empty spaces in your home that can be vertical space for storing items.

Conclusion

Decluttering your space allows you to declutter your headspace and think clearly. Also, organizing hacks like the file folding method of clothes, color-coding them, hanging pans and pots, and creating shoe cases above the floor, enlarges your space and allows you to store more. But first, you need to create space, for which storage units, vertical spacing, compartmentalizing, and purging are excellent ways to begin.

Thanks to hollywoodstoragecenter.com for consulting.