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Easy Energy Saving Tips

Easy Energy Saving Tips

There is always the need to work on saving energy, no matter what home you live in and whether or not you are using a lot of electricity. This can be saved fairly simply in most situations, such as turning down the heat during winter and avoiding the use of air conditioning during not so terrible summers. Prices for electricity and fuel are rising in many areas around the world, but there is more to this than power consumption and the monetary aspect of it all. There is also the environmental aspect that needs considering, so you will find the following tips on energy saving addressing all issues across the board:

Blocking your chimney

Having an unblocked chimney that is unused during the winter will bring in draughts that would be easily avoided otherwise. Not addressing the issue means your home’s warmth will escape, thus increasing the use of energy. If you happen to never use the fireplace, then you would do better to cap it off to minimize the potential loss of heat and energy. Use an inflatable chimney balloon if you want to keep it operational or wall it off entirely if you plan on never using it. Make sure you work on cleaning your chimney to keep things looking good and to avoid spilling dust all over the place. You can use a cleaning company that specializes in chimney cleaning to make this work if you don’t have the time or experience in doing so.

Installation of a voltage optimization device

Using one of these will allow you to monitor power consumption in your home as well as making sure you figure out which appliances have the biggest draw and ways you can make a difference by addressing the issue. Using a professional electrician will give you a chance to install it with perfect results, so make sure you consider that option when you work on using it.

Use of cavity wall insulation

This is one cheap and fairly easy solution you can work on, but it is often avoided due to its poor aesthetic appeal. You can use that to block any draughts that happen to come under doors, around your windows and pipe work, as well as loft hatches and other locations that lead to the outside. You will need to do some cleaning once in a while, but in the end said cleaning will be worth it as blocking these areas will make them harder to deal with. Draught excluders can also be installed in your home to keep things under control, but overall eliminating these gaps will be the only way you can improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Proofing your home against draughts

Heat can be lost easily via cracks and holes in your walls, but you will be able to save up some money and keep your energy bills low if you ensure good insulation. Cavity wall protection will allow you to cover energy saving in a better way.

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Words Affect How Fast, And For How Much, A Home Will Sell For

Man roar in ruper

When people are searching for a home to buy, sometimes an idea, or a feeling, are just as important as the actual features when it comes to getting them to make the purchase and agree to a good price. A recent study by Zillo Digs, suggests that listing a "barn door" might help sell a home faster and at a better price, than one that does not have this listing.

This does not refer to a literal barn door, but rather points to some ideas that people view favorably when considering the design of a place they might like to buy. The Zillo Digs company studied 2.8 million listings for single family houses and condos listed around the nation from January 2014 through March of this year in their study.

The study used a complex model that measured attributes, as opposed to those that did not have those attributes, and how fast they sold and for what price they commanded in the market.

The people who did the study pointed out that just listing "barn door" by itself is not what makes a house sell. Rather the words convey an idea of how the place is designed. A barn door is not the traditional opening to an outbuilding where animals are kept, but is more a design feature that gives the idea of open space. Barn doors are generally sliding doors and come in all types of shapes, materials and sizes.

The top four

Here are the top four items on the list and the impact it had on price.

  • Barn Door, 13.4 percent

  • Shaker Cabinet 9.6 percent

  • Farmhouse SInk 7.9 percent

  • Subway TIle 6.9 percent

What these four items have in common is the idea of simplicity, or a rustic atmosphere, which is very popular now. It also conveys the idea of an earlier time when function was the guiding force.

Even so these items are not cheap. "Barn doors" may be made of stainless steel and cost as much as $3,000, and farmhouse sinks are made of stainless steel and are also rather costly. Even so they may be worth the cost, the study suggests.

Times are changing

The study also showed that some items that may have helped sell a house even 20 years ago, are not as effective today.

Here are some items that do not fetch as good of a price today:

  • Jacuzzi, 0.9 percent

  • Exposed beams, 2.3 percent

  • Chandelier, 1.8 percent

  • Solar panels, 1.8 percent

While these are still positives, they are not as positive as they would have been a couple of decades ago. Some of this is semantics with changing times. The words "pendant light" adds 4.7 percent to the price, over the chandelier at 1.8 percent. The two items are not that different, but pendant just sounds a lot more modern than chandelier.

Bottom of the top

Rounding out the study, some things have fallen in popularity. The term "breakfast nook," once very popular is now No. 50 and barely affects the price. Fireplace, walk in closet and outdoor kitchen, are also things that once would have added value, but now seem to have virtually no effect, the study said.

Jodi Bakst, Broker-Owner of Real Estate Experts based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is known for her strong negotiation skills

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Keep Up With AC Maintenance Before It's Too Late

Woman sit on the floor with baner

Your air conditioner might be largely forgotten as the cooler months set in, but that next heat wave may be on its way. Switching on the AC after a long, system hibernation is often a recipe for failure. As an alternative, consider a basic maintenance schedule that will help you save money over the years. When you care for your AC system on a regular basis, it'll last longer and cost you less in upkeep costs.

Replace the Filter

The simplest task that you can perform for the AC is replacing the filter. Every system uses a rectangular or square filter that captures dust and debris. Over time, this filter fills up and creates a veritable blockage to incoming air. As a result, your AC system works harder to pull the air into its components. This extra stress wears down parts and causes more costs over time. Replace the filter once a month when the AC is being used on a regular basis.

Comb the Fins

The outdoor component to your AC system has a collection of fins around the coils. These fins direct air across the coils in order to cool the refrigerant. Because this system section resides outside, these fins become damaged over time. They might bend and block air flowing across the coils, which reduces the system's ability to cool the interior. A simple tool that you can use at home is a fin comb. Simply "comb" the fins so that they're parallel to each other. The system will work almost perfectly with straight fins.

Look for Leaks

Your AC unit has several leak points that should be accounted for on a regular basis. Access the indoor unit, and look for the condensate drains. Made of PVC pipes, these drains should allow drips of condensate to funnel out of the system and into the home's plumbing. Leaks shouldn't be found on floors or under the AC unit itself. Take a close look at the refrigerant hoses too. If any of these hoses are leaking, contacting a professional is your next step.

Hire Professional Help

Part of a successful AC maintenance schedule is hiring professionals at least once a year. These technicians can test areas that require special tooling, such as refrigerant levels and temperature-sensor accuracy. Ideally, schedule an appointment in the spring before hot weather arrives. If there are any major concerns to address, the technicians can work them out before the outside temperatures become too uncomfortable. Professionals complement your maintenance, and allow the system to work for a longer time period with fewer repair costs.

Clear Away the Dust

Shine a flashlight across your interior AC unit, and look for any accumulated dust. Use a vacuum extension to gently remove any dust along the coils. A dirty AC system must work harder to produce cool air. Dirty coils can't properly transfer heat, but clean coils will allow the system to work perfectly with each cycle. Clear dust and debris from your exterior unit too.

If you suspect that there's an electrical problem with your AC, consider calling a technician and electrician. An AC technician is entirely capable of troubleshooting the system's electrical components, but there might be other underlying issues that require an electrician's expertise. Don't postpone your AC maintenance, especially if electrical problems are involved. Safety should be your top priority.

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

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Conservatory Decorating & Design Ideas

Conservatory Decorating & Design Ideas

Whether you’re planning to use your new conservatory as a dining room, summer sun trap, extra lounge or even a study or playroom, you’ll need to carefully consider its design before you start decorating. Here are some conservatory interior design ideas to get some inspiration flowing

Conservatory Design Ideas

Think through each of the sections below to establish an overall conservatory interior design.

Conservatory type

If you haven’t already, you’ll need to choose what type of conservatory you want to install – you might want to go for something that matches the style of your property or the period it was built in – of course, you could go for something completely different. Either way, it’s a good idea to keep your conservatory size in proportion to the rest of your home. The main styles to choose from are:

  • Victorian conservatory

  • Edwardian/Georgian conservatory

  • Lean-to conservatory

  • P or L-shaped conservatory

  • Gable-fronted conservatory

Conservatory colour scheme

A good way to start formulating a conservatory design is to choose a colour theme, some popular choices include:

  • As conservatories are very connected with the outdoors, many people pick a colour scheme which reflects that. Nature-inspired schemes incorporating a lot of greens, blues, whites, tans and creams are ideal.

  • Alternatively, you may have plans to create a warmer, Mediterranean-style conservatory using oranges, yellows and reds.

  • Using a mixture of black, grey and white will help create a modern, minimilistic conservatory interior design.

  • You might like to use the same, or a slight variation of the colour scheme you’ve used throughout the rest of your home to create a seamless transition and avoid the ‘bolted-on’ feel many conservatories have.

Conservatory flooring

Flooring makes a real difference to your conservatory, both in terms of style and practicality; you’ll want something durable and long lasting that matches your conservatory design. Some common conservatory flooring options include:

  • Wood

  • Laminate

  • Natural stone such as slate or granite

  • Ceramic tiles

  • Lino

  • Bamboo

Conservatory blinds

The right conservatory blinds will provide privacy, help filter the sun’s glare in summer or conserve heat in the winter. Choose blinds that match or compliment the rest of your conservatory design, think about material, colour and texture – options include:

  • Pleated blinds

  • Roman blinds

  • Roller blinds

  • Venetian blinds

  • Solar blinds

Conservatory furniture

The type of furniture you choose will be heavily influenced by the rest of your conservatory design – going for a nature-inspired theme? Then choose wooden or even bamboo furniture and include plenty of plants and some earthy-coloured rugs and throws for winter. A Mediterranean-style conservatory might need some brightly-coloured fabric sofas, clay ornaments and ceramics; choosing glass and metal furniture for a modern conservatory works well too. Of course, you might want to go the other way and pick one or two signature pieces of furniture to base your entire conservatory design around.

Conservatory heating & cooling

Since it consists of so much glass, your conservatory will be much more subject to outside temperatures than other parts of your home, even if you use specially-coated glazing. This means you’ll likely swelter in summer and freeze in winter unless you think carefully about heating and cooling your conservatory. Installing ceiling fans or an air conditioning system will help keep your conservatory cool in summer while standard radiators or underfloor heating will allow you to carry on using your conservatory in winter.

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Central Air Vs Window Units-Which Is The Better Option?

iQFlexHeat logo

When it comes to air conditioning, there are essentially two different styles that you have to choose from; central air and window units. Both units will do a fairly good job at keeping the house cool, but they both come with their own sets of pros and cons.

Central Air

Central air is preferred by many as it keeps the temperature within the home consistent. Though this is the most costly way to get air conditioning initially, over time it does provide some cost savings. Since it is regulated by a thermostat, you can adjust the settings to kick lower when you are home and increase the temperature when the home is vacant. Being able to control the temperature from one central location is nice.

When it comes to downsides with central air there are a few. They do need to be serviced by an HVAC technician at least once per year. They can leak refrigerant or have a compressor go bad. All of these things can be costly. They do have longevity on their side. The average unit's lifespan is between 15-20 years. If the unit is experiencing a mechanical failure, the entire home will be uncomfortable till it is fixed.

Additionally, there are many complaints that the basements are cooler and upstairs warmer with central air. To get the upstairs to an adequate temperature, an additional unit should be considered. However, many just turn the thermostat down lower to accommodate. Unfortunately, it causes other areas in the home to be like a freezer. Regulating the entire home at one time can be hard and the homeowner may have to consider more runs of duct-work to solve problems of inefficiency.

Window Unit Air Conditioners

The window unit air conditioner is still widely used. They are great for homes that do not have central air, or for those who have central air but have warm spots they need to compensate for. These units start at 5,000 BTU and go up to 33,000 BTU. The smaller units run on an 110 outlet, but the larger units will require special wiring for a 220 outlet. They are fairly inexpensive to purchase. A 28,000 BTU unit runs on a 220 and costs under $1,000 to purchase. This unit will cool 1,900 square foot, which is the size of the average home.

These units must be mounted into a window or wall, as they drain condensation as they run. They are great for homes that need intense cooling in one area. They also have thermostats and can be programmed to turn off and on as needed.

The downsides to these units are also hard to ignore. First, the condensation that they leak can damage the side of a home if the AC is not tipped at the right angel. The constant running of water can cause mold issues too. It is important to make sure the water drips away from the home. Additionally, these larger units can really damage a window by taking them in and out. It is best to leave them in the window to avoid damage, but they must have a winter cover to protect them during the inclement weather.

Final Thoughts

You must do whatever possible to ensure your families comforts. Central air systems are nice and the best way to go for most people. However, there are certain circumstances where window units just make more sense.

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

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Pros and Cons of LED Lightbulbs

Pros and Cons of LED Lightbulbs

You might remember playing with LEDs at school or in the science kits your kids got for Christmas, they are often used to help us learn how electrical circuits work. You have probably seen them on newer Audi's and a lot of other brands of new car, televisions, computer screens and many traffic lights now use LED lights too. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode and these new bulbs offer many benefits over the traditional, incandescent bulb which was invented by Thomas Edison. In this post we are going to look at the pros and cons that LED bulbs can offer.

History

In 1962 Nick Holonyak, Jr. was working for General Electric and invented the first visible-spectrum LED. The first LED lights where red diodes, pale yellow and green diodes were created next. Shortly after their invention LED lights became part of calculator displays. In the 90s after the invention of blue diodes researchers discovered they could coat them with a phosphor to making the blue diodes appear white.

Energy Efficiency

When they were first invented LED bulbs were no more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. According to this blog post about LED light bulbs, “the original range of LED bulbs was very limited. Just a few, like the low voltage dichroic and GU10 lamps were introduced. Many of these bulbs were available in only one watt making them of very little use. It was believed that background or decorative lighting would be their main role.”

After a push for further research and development Philips developed the first 600 watt LED bulb. Modern LED bulbs offer better energy efficiency because manufacturers string several low energy consuming LEDs into each bulb, 40 one watt LEDs can produce the same amount of light as a 60 watt incandescent bulb.

Cooler to Touch

LEDs don't produce heat like incandescent bulbs do, incandescent bulbs produce heat in the form of infrared radiation which makes them hot to the touch. Being cooler to touch means LED fixtures can be positioned in locations where the heat generated by other light sources would be an issue. Even LEDs lose 60-95% of their power through heat output.

Lifespan

LEDs do not have fragile filaments that can be broken and they can last for up to 60,000 hours, the maximum lifespan of traditional bulbs is 2,000 hours which reduces waste and the need to change them (obviously).

Not Toxic

The low energy bulbs which have replaced incandescent lights in many homes and workplaces these new bulbs contain mercury and argon gas, the bulbs and the chemicals they contain have caused a wave of concern around the world.

Cost of Installation

The initial installation and purchase cost of LED lighting can be quite expensive, LED bulb will cost over ten time a traditional bulb. Initial cost is the only drawback to LEDs really but LEDs can last 58,000 hours longer than traditional bulbs (just one LED bulb can last as long as 58 incandescent bulbs), they are much more energy efficient and non toxic so are a good long term investment.

This post was supplied by David Easter Managing Director of online electrical wholesalers, Cannon Electrical.

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Have You Considered A Regency Style Conservatory For Your Home?

Have You Considered A Regency Style Conservatory For Your Home?

Regency Style Conservatories

The Regency style is a reflection of the best of British architecture, bringing elegance and sophistication with classic lines and design.

The Regency period is renowned for its elegance, grandeur and beauty. Adding such luxury to your home in the shape of a conservatory will make your property a finer place to live and a desirable offering should you ever decide to sell up and move on to pastures new.

What Is The Regency Style?

Regency architecture refers to the British buildings that were built in the early part of the 19th century, the Regency era. The beginning of the 19th century saw George IV as Prince Regent, and so the term Regency was coined. As the design proved so popular, the style has been recreated right up until the present day and can be applied to both interior and exterior design.

Its popularity is largely due to the simplicity that afforded it such elegance in many classic examples of the style. While there are certainly more opulent buildings from the era, such as the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, the classic lines of Cumberland Terrace in London are more what springs to mind when one thinks of the Regency style.

Interestingly, despite their differences, both of the aforementioned buildings were designed by John Nash, the leading architect of the day. It was he who was responsible for the glorious building that surround Regent’s Park in the capital as well as many of the properties that make London what it is in the well-to-do districts of Pimlico, Mayfair and Victoria.

Away from the hubbub of London, other examples of stunning Regency architecture can still be found in Bath, Somerset and Buxton, where many of the building were designed in the style of the day.

Regency Style In The Home

Regency style is very much back in vogue of late, and the baseline Greek and Roman influences are being incorporated into modern homes across the country. Property owners are paying attention to details such the Regency plastercraft that adorns the walls and ceilings of their homes, giving rooms focal points around which conversations are started.

And then, there is the conservatory. A fabulous way to extend one’s home and add value to your property. Regency style conservatories, such as those offered by The Caulfield Company, breathe a new lease of life into a home using classic lines and design that have stood the test of time for many generations.

Gable ends and ridged roofs are synonymous with the period, and the light that is brought into the home via the conservatory’s many windows will brighten up even the murkiest interior. Natural light can be in short supply in many homes, and the Regency design is the perfect way to overcome the darkness, especially in those winter months.

The extra room that a conservatory gives you can be used in any number of ways, but the added floor space is always welcome, regardless of what you choose to do with it. Occasional room, summer room, dining room, the choice is yours.

Whatever you decide upon, these elegant extensions will give you years of pleasure, whether you are on the inside looking out or the outside looking in.

Chloe Cotton is editor-in-chief at The Happiest Homes, a leading UK digital home magazine.

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Do All Plumbing Issues Stem From The Toilet?

Do All Plumbing Issues Stem From The Toilet?

Plumbers are a diverse group of professionals. Today, plumbers, like doctors, specialize in the types of plumbing they prefer and are trained to perform. To fully understand plumbing issues would require the level of knowledge and experience, not to mention licensing, as your plumbing expert. The design of plumbing systems is often misunderstood when plumbing issues arise. It is always best to leave these issues with plumbing professionals who understand plumbing systems best.

Do All Plumbing Issues Come from a Clog?

The first thing to visualize about your plumbing system is that there are several major parts. Most of these are familiar in homes and commercial buildings. These include:

  • Drains

  • Faucets

  • Piping

  • Bathroom equipment

  • Municipal drain traps

  • Sprinkling systems for safety and landscaping use

Not all plumbing issues stem from the toilet, though it may be possible that a single toilet clog can lead to a bigger problem with the main drain in the home or building.

How a Toilet Can Mean Bigger Problems

When plumbing issues arise, the issue may be a slow leak or major break in plumbing pipes. The most common issues that arise are usually with kitchen and bathroom plumbing. The ripple effect of a clog that is not immediately repaired leads to more clogging in the entire plumbing system. The worst-case issue is in a bathroom with a clogged or dysfunctional toilet. Since toilets drain into a single main drain system in the home, a clog affects the remainder of the system and prevent other drains from functioning properly.

How City Sewerage and Septic Tanks are Affected by Toilets

There is a close relationship between a toilet and main drainage pipe in homes and commercial facilities. In some homes and buildings, toilets drain into the local municipal sewerage system via the nearest piping system located between the structure and the street. It is the responsibility of the municipality to maintain free flowing sewer systems. When one or more structures on the same streets have clogged toilets, it is easy to see how it can become a major sewer system backup.

In some homes, toilets drain into underground septic tanks. A septic tank should be inspected and cleaned by the property owner(s). Septic tanks are subject to unseen wear and require integrity testing to prevent leaks and cracks.

What are Some Unique, Unexpected Issues Your Plumbing System Could Have?

There are certain unique, unexpected issues that can arise with your plumbing system. For example, today's newest refrigerators are connected to water lines for ice makers. These lines wear and leak. A licensed plumber will inspect the line that carries water from water pipes to the ice maker.

The same is true of dishwashers. These kitchen appliances often become clogged with food particles, causing a backup.

In bathrooms, it is possible that hair builds up in drains and clogs sink and tub drains causing a back up. Perhaps, one of the most unusual, unexpected issues your plumbing system could have is when a toddler accidentally or intentionally drops a toy into the toilet, flushes it and then it becomes stuck somewhere in the plumbing system.

Professional plumbers could write science fiction novels about the various and sundry unusual items that end up flushed into toilets. If the object is large enough to flush, but not large enough to pass through a plumbing system, this novelty issue needs a professional plumber.

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

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Foreign Property Investment Is A Smart Idea

Foreign Property Investment Is A Smart Idea

When it comes to making the best use of your money, there has long been a lot to be said for investing in bricks and mortar. This has long been the case and many people will tell you of the long term benefits that come from buying property. This has been seen in the United Kingdom in recent times due to the difficulty that many people face when trying to get on to the property ladder. The fact that many first time buyers have found themselves priced out of the market means that there are properties on offer to people who can obtain a mortgage. There is also the fact that there is a rising demand for rental property, all of which means that people investing in the buy to let market in the United Kingdom have a genuine chance of making short term rental income while also benefitting in the long term from owning property.

However, this may well change due to the upcoming changes in stamp duty. As of the 1st of April 2016, anyone in the UK buying an additional property that is valued at £40,000 or more will find that they have to pay an additional 3% levy on stamp duty. This means that buyers will find that they end up paying a lot more for property, which may impact on their ability to buy or their desire to buy. If you are looking to get involved with the buy-to-let market, it is vital that you are aware of your rental yield. The rental yield is the return you can expect to make on your investment and the more money you shell out, the lower your rental yield is likely to be. If you cannot obtain an attractive rental yield, you would be advised entering the market in this area or location.

These changes will impact on the UK buy-to-let market

The changes have been introduced to impact on the number of buy-to-let operators in the hope that this will stimulate the market for first time buyers and people who are currently renting. There definitely needs to be some action taken when it comes to the property market in the UK but many property experts have doubts and concerns over whether this is likely to be the best solution in the long term. There is no getting away from the fact though that many investors will decide that investing in property in the United Kingdom isn’t worth their while.

This isn’t to say that investing in property is a waste of time. Just because the UK options are diminished doesn’t mean you should give up on the idea of owning property or investing in this market. There are many foreign markets where there are reasons to invest in the property market, and this could be a great way to use your money in an attractive manner. Some people may be looking for a holiday home, some people may be looking for a way to generate monthly income from renting out properties and it may even be that you have your eye on the long term benefits of using your money wisely to own property. No matter the reason you have for investing in the foreign property market, it is important that you use your money sensibly, and this means undertaking a level of research.

Get advice from the property experts

There are many foreign property experts and specialists that will help you make the most informed decision. If you want to get a taste of what is on offer, you will find it of interest and benefit to visit an expo or exhibition which puts you in front of property experts from around the world. One of the most popular foreign property exhibitions would have to be the MIPIM event, and this is held in Cannes every year. Attending this market will put you in front of many property specialists and if you need any guidance or help, you will be in the perfect place to ask the people that know.

Cannes is not likely to be a place you can invest in property but you’ll find that staying in Cannes is a pleasurable experience. This is a glorious destination and with stylish Cannes apartments and great restaurants, the time away from any exhibition will be enjoyable and comfortable. If you are looking to invest in property properly, make sure you get the best advice.

Andrew Reilly is a freelance writer with a focus on news stories and consumer interest articles. He has been writing professionally for 9 years but has been writing for as long as he can care to remember. When Andrew isn't sat behind a laptop or researching a story, he will be found watching a gig or a game of football.

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If You Have A Winter Boiler Emergency, Avoid Cheap Plumbers

If You Have A Winter Boiler Emergency, Avoid Cheap Plumbers

Whether it can be put down to fate, or simply because equipment has to work harder when temperatures drop and thus weaknesses show up, emergencies such as broken down boilers always seem to happen when winter bites. In situations like these, the priority is to get warm as soon as possible, so people tend to make hurried calls to plumbers who may not be the best people for the job.

Indeed, surveys have revealed people mostly focus on price rather than ensuring their chosen plumber is properly qualified to attend to the work.

A distress call in every sense

When heating is interrupted by a boiler malfunction, the priority of course is to fix it. This is where mistakes can be made - calling a plumber to deal with an emergency is a ‘distress’ call and you might overlook the plumber’s suitability for the job when you and your family are cold.

The problem

Simply searching online for local plumbers or flicking through the Yellow Pages leaves you open to picking someone unsuitable. They may be either cheap because they lack experience, or may take advantage of your need to get the boiler fixed quickly and levy unreasonable charges, such as excessive emergency call out fees.

Avoiding cheap plumbers

If you do find yourself phoning round and come across someone offering a particularly cheap price to come and repair your boiler, think carefully. Are they cheap for a reason? Are they qualified to do the work?

Qualifying your plumber

If you have a gas boiler, it’s absolutely essential that you use the services of a Gas Safe registered plumber. This is a national, checkable register of qualified plumbers who have the right credentials to work on gas appliances. Don’t even think of using a plumber who isn’t Gas Safe registered.

Checking their Gas Safe qualifications

They should have the Gas Safe logo - the yellow triangle - displayed on their website and vehicles.

The plumber who calls should carry a Gas Safe card with his actual name and the date of expiry on it.

You can check the plumbing firm is Gas Safe registered by conducting a search on the Gas Safe register website.

Preparing in advance

It may not be uppermost in your mind in the summer months or while your central heating system is performing flawlessly, but lining up a plumber you can trust for situations when you need some help in a hurry is a very good idea.

It enables you to evaluate and choose a plumber without being under pressure when something goes wrong at an inappropriate time. In any event, it’s a good idea to have your boiler and appliances checked regularly even when all appears to be working well. To this end, a reliable plumber who can do this and help in emergencies is important.

Finding a reputable plumber

Steps to take to find the best plumber.

  • Word of mouth - who do friends, neighbours and other people you can trust use?

  • Industry contacts - - similar to the above, but maybe someone in a related industry can recommend someone; for example, an electrician you have a good experience of may have a plumbing recommendation?

  • Websites - many plumbers have a web presence such as the website of Essex and East London-based plumbers Ascot Building Services Ltd. Does the plumber you’re thinking of have a professional looking website? Are they Gas Safe registered?- who do friends, neighbours and other people you can trust use?

  • Contact - talking to one or two plumbers can help gauge how helpful they are and what terms they operate under (for example, do they charge emergency call out fees?)

Doing the groundwork

Teeing up a plumber to help you in all your plumbing related tasks from general maintenance checks through to major repairs and renewals is time well spent. It’s far easier and more effective to do this when there is no pressure to quickly get warmth and hot water flowing again when you have an emergency in the middle of winter.

Terry Lewis is the founder of ABS Plumbing and Drainage. His company offers plumbing, heating and drainage services to all over London and Essex. If you need a plumber, call Terry and his team.

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Get Your Home Energy Efficient Before Buying A New Furnace

house with solarpanel

Before you layout cash on a new heating system it is advisable to improve the overall energy efficiency of your home, you can make your home more energy efficient by adding insulation and improving your windows. Reducing the heating load of your home may enable you to purchase a smaller furnace and reduce your overall heating costs, it is also better for the environment. In this post we will look at how you can improve your homes energy efficiency.

Wall and Roof Insulation

The first thing you can do to save energy is insulate your walls and roof space, good insulation slows the rate at which valuable heat flows out of the house in the winter months and it can keep your house cooler in the summer. Insulation means less energy is needed to heat or cool your home. Many homes are built with an outer and an inner wall with a small gap in between, on many new homes these cavity walls are already insulated but this is not the case on older properties.

How Does Cavity Wall Insulation Work?

Air is a very effective natural insulator, heat does not travel through air that easily. In the winter time we are told that the best way to keep warm is with several layers of clothing. Layers of clothing trap air and stop your body heat from escaping, fibrous materials like wool keep us warmer than less fibrous materials such as cotton.

Cavity wall insulation works like a woolly jumper, the material injected into the cavity wall of your house traps air in between its fibres creating an ‘air matrix’. Insulating your cavity walls is a good idea but insulating your loft and walls is even better, heat rises so it is a good idea to make sure your roof is insulated too. Roof insulation is also made from a woolly material that can be laid in rolls, rolls of glass wool are easy to lay but it can irritate the eyes, skin and lungs so adequate protection is required.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable Thermostats can save energy, they will reduce the amount of work your new furnace needs to do when your family is out. You can reduce your heating bill by about 2% for each degree that you turn down the thermostat during an eight-hour period,.

Replacing an existing thermostat for a programmable one is a job that most homeowners should be able to do themselves.

Get New Windows

Double and triple glazing can make your home more secure, reduce noise pollution from outside, reduce condensation and it is more energy efficient. These types of glazing units trap air and work in a very similar way to the insulation methods already mentioned above, modern double glazing units are often fitted with pyrolytic, low-emissivity coated thermal glass. The glass used in modern windows is designed to let free heat in from sun whilst stopping the heat already in the house from escaping.

If you are happy with your homes heat retention abilities a new furnace or heating system may add to your overall energy efficiency.

This post was supplied by Mark Stubbles who writes for FurnacePrices.ca, a site that supplys furnace quotes get a free one.

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5 Benefits Of Modular Buildings

woman keeps baner

Modular buildings have been growing in popularity in the UK, as the public and private sector wake up to the far-reaching benefits of modern construction methods. Comprised of many individual steel-framed units, healthcare, education and residential homes are just three sectors already benefitting from this innovative building solution.

But why deviate from the tried and tested methods used by traditional construction companies? Many of the strengths of modular buildings lie in the simple, efficient and thorough way they are constructed. Here are just a few of the benefits offered by modular construction.

2. Quality assured manufacturing

From the design and planning stages through to the assembly, all modular buildings are engineered to the highest standard, using strong and durable materials. As the majority of the manufacturing process occurs within dedicated plants, the condition of each steel-based module is inspected at every step, ensuring far greater quality control than is possible using traditional methods.

3. A bespoke design

Modular buildings can be customised to meet the exact requirements of the organisation. A vast range of interior and exterior finishes makes these buildings incredibly versatile.

In-house design teams work tirelessly to ensure their end product meets the precise specifications required of each module. Whether designing cosy and functional rooms for accommodation or safe and secure office suites, each module can be tailored to specific needs and objectives.

4. Flexibility without compromise

Modular buildings have a major advantage over their traditional rivals. Whilst boasting consistently high quality, they can also be constructed on a permanent or temporary basis, allowing relocation when necessary. This flexibility makes these buildings a popular choice for schools or hospitals where adaptation or expansion is often required.

5. Safe as houses

One of the biggest myths surrounding modular buildings is that they lack the safety and security features that traditional constructions have. However, with qualities such as fire-rated and anti-vandal exteriors, modular buildings can be just as secure – if not more so – than their classic counterparts.

For a more cost-effective, reliable and contemporary alternative to traditional options, modular buildings are an absolutely unbeatable choice. Advances in both technology and design mean these buildings now boast modern and stylish looks, complete with bespoke interiors and exteriors.

It’s never been a better time to invest in a modular building. With an enormous range of styles in all shapes and sizes, there’s a budget-friendly option for every business and sector.

This article is written by Kelly Gilmour-Grassam with helpful information from Thurston Group. Kelly is a freelance copywriter from Yorkshire who loves the great outdoors, fine dingin and intersting places. You can follow Kelly on Twitter @KellyGGrassam

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Real Estate As An Investment Option

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Interest rates are slowly but steadily rising. The record in "the rise of delinquent payments" last year indicates "a wave" of foreclosures that will splash onto the market this year. Mortgage rates are sinking "to record lows" and "home foreclosures have climbed to all time highs." Even though major developments forecast impending doom the current market still bodes well for the savvy well-informed investor. There are more specific options that are gaining popularity, especially with an unsure future as far as rentals and re-sales are concerned.

Viable Option in Foreclosure Market

The second home has become a viable option that makes the best of reselling and renting options in the foreclosure market, wherever maximum returns can be realized. With the current housing market prospective owners are more apt to rent property in an area before buying to get a better feel for it before they make a formal commitment. There are a lot of people who want to take advantage of "the try it before you buy it attitude." It gives the owner and the prospective buyer different options.

Why sell your second home when you can pay for its up keep by renting it out seasonably or making a bigger profit from the sale by having the prospective buyer rent the property first and get a better response to the asking price. From the Ozarks to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin California and Florida and all types of resort areas in between there are a growing need for the vacation property that wasn't previously satisfied. The "vacation rental market has seen a boost" and potential! Second home markets will continue to grow despite the downward spiraling economy.

Market is Becoming Better and Better

The housing market for buying and investing seems to look better and better despite the lingering numbers of increased foreclosures. The activity of the housing market has been "the superhero of the economy." Homeownership rates, home sales, and residential investments all reached "new highs last year."

Despite a less than great economy set backs for the majority of consumers who've worked hard to maintain their standard of living have and will spend money to relax and enjoy their free time. The same thing happened during the economic downturn of the early 80's." Americans spent more money on entertainment and having a good time to forget about the less than ideal economic reality. They saw industry revenues rise considerably. The vacation and tourism market is just one area that benefits from this diverse economic climate. There are geographical locations that benefit and have remained unscathed by the overall foreclosure "gloom and doom?"

Portland, Oregon continues to see its suburban housing developments "surge towards record highs" with the average asking price for homes rising from time to time. Just as more Americans have opted to enjoy more of their free time when they can. It's more affordable then ever for residents of the state of Oregon's metro area because it's doing considerably better as a result of a switch to an economy based on high tech manufacturing than wood production. It exemplifies how some markets will suffer because of the economy and how others won't, giving a bit of insight where to invest in the foreclosure market, a second home for investment or recreational purposes.

For second home seekers large hotels and resorts have become increasingly crowded, congested, and less personal. They find a "heightened sense of security in a single home or smaller condo complex" more appealing than the ubiquitous hotel or resort. The growth has spawned "2nd Home Living" magazine that offers information on second homes, vacation, resort, and retirement communities, both for sale and for rent.

There are many web sites match a second homebuyer with a purchaser or a real estate professional in the field called a "Resort Specialist." Many investors are capitalizing on that market. The number of "resale homes sold continues to be very strong in most cities" because of low interest rates. The consumer creates the demand for new or resold properties. Since there are more properties in default someone is going to profit. Rental or vacation property is only a new channel where a knowledgeable investor may gain.

This post was supplied by Mark Stubbles, Mark writes for McIntyre Masonry, Edinburgh.

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Extreme DIY: Radiant Floor Heating

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As winter approaches, the necessity to keep a warm home is real, but not just keeping us warm but to ensure the heating system is efficient enough to keep each room in the home the same temperature so one room will not be freezing while another is much hotter. There are many ways to keep warm inside your home and most of the time everything starts with a quick evaluation for the proper insulation of windows and doors. Along with this all must be checked to ensure there are no cracks around the windows and doors that may allow cold air to enter your home. However, this is not enough when it comes to keeping our home warm and therefore the quest for a heating method begins.

There are many heating systems on the market, but oftentimes we forget to keep in mind common sense to find effective solutions for this. It is a fact that heat goes up; we can see it even in those movies portraying roads that cross the American desert, where heat is clearly perceivable through view distortion. Nothing new to discover here really, because floor heating could be considered as old as the planet earth receiving the sunrays over its surface; however, the foundation stone for actual central heating systems could be attributed to the ancient Roman civilization for the use of furnaces underneath their living areas to keep them warm. Hot air will always go up whether you use it to heat your floors and consequently a room or to elevate a hot-air balloon.

Bringing it Up

Well, Romans made it possible that fire under their floors run throughout underground passages, same as Kings did in the Middle Ages to keep their immense castles warm. However, the introduction of modern-times heating systems did not really begin until 1942 with the introduction of a radiant heating system that an American company brought to our homes. From then onwards, there are many heating system to choose from when an extra layer of warmth is needed to keep a place comfortable during the cold months, being floor heating the most effective solution among all other solutions. Nonetheless, getting someone to do the installation of a radiant floor heating system may result to costly to afford.

The Solution: Do it Yourself

The increasing awareness of our environment has brought into our lives many efficient solutions to heating your home floors. From in-floor heating mats, to modern alternative to under-flooring heating furnaces, there are many radiant floor-heating alternatives such as a brightly shining warming incandescent lamp. However and regardless which floor heating option is your choice, keep in mind that being based on water flow and electricity, doing the installation yourself requires basic knowledge of both plumbing and electric system installation. Even though, if you know how to install and connect a bulb, or how to fix the sink in the kitchen, you are likely to succeed with this warm-home project, installed on your own. Remember that with a radiant floor heating system the warmth goes up from the floor, and therefore the chances getting a room evenly warm are not only greater, but energy consumption is also more efficient and cheaper than using other heating systems.

Information is Fundamental

Now, that you know what a radiant floor heating system can do for your home, it is time to put hands to work. Start by making a decision on the type of radiant system you are going to install, based on the needs of your room and your own knowledge and expertise. Do not try to install an intricate radiant floor system in all the rooms of your home if this is the first time you are into a DIY project. Start with one room at a time, and make sure that you will be able to handle the entire job alone the entire job and all that such installation requires. Even installing a thermal mat has its own science, so read all the available information for floor heating systems and make sure you understand the instructions.

Remember that just about anyone can start an Extreme DIY project, whether for the installation of a radiant floor heating system or the assembly of that new entertainment center so much needed in the living room. However, the hardest part of doing it yourself is taking the project to completion with total success. Hence, make sure you understand the process to succeed with the installation because, otherwise, you may end up paying much more than you think if, at the very end, you are in an emergency situation and need to call an expert to get your DIY floor-heating project sorted out. Good luck!

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Taking The Bite Out Of Winter Plumbing Problems

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Nothing strikes more fear in the heart of a homeowner than to find out that their plumbing has fallen victim to winter's harsh weather. Whether it's frozen pipes, burst lines, or massive leaks, winter can be hard on any home's pipes -- but it doesn't have to be. With proper planning and routine maintenance, your wallet can escape a real money drainer (pun intended).

Hidden Plumbing Problems

"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail," or so the saying goes. And so it goes with plumbing, too. The easiest way to avoid plumbing problems in winter (and all year long) is to have your pipes inspected annually. Regular inspections can detect problems long before they are noticed (or weakened) during the rough winter months. It's worth noting, however, that while having a family member of friend do a quick check can save you some money, an inspection is best left to a professional. A licensed plumber can spot problems that most people wouldn't notice, saving you thousands of dollars in the long run.

Frozen Pipes

Exposed pipes during cold months can quickly spell disaster when they turn into an exploding mess all over your house. Because water expands when frozen and can rupture pipes (and cause massive leaks), it's best to ensure that all of your plumbing is properly insulated and shielded from freezing temperatures. It's especially important to remember pipes that are on the exterior of your home (hose faucets, outdoor sinks, and the like) may not be able to be insulated like they would if they were on the interior of your home. The quickest and most inexpensive fix can be found in your local hardware store: pipe insulating sleeves. They come in many thicknesses, lengths, and widths to accommodate pipes of all kinds. Slide them on, trim to size, secure with a cable tie, and enjoy peace of mind all winter. Look also pipe frost protection

Failed Hot Water Heater

An overlooked (but very important) component of your plumbing system is your hot water heater. It's something we rely on each day (hello, hot shower!) but don't think about much until it's broken. If you're experiencing cooler-than-normal water when using hot water, or if your hot water doesn't seem to last as long, it may be time to have it looked at. Ignoring the problem could cause leaks, loss of water pressure, and, in rare cases, explosions. If you have an older unit that's not giving you trouble now, it may still be worth it to have a plumber inspect it. While most water heaters have a life-span of about 10 years, it seems older units tend to break down during colder months, leaving you the awful task of taking a cold shower until it's fixed.

While winter can mean playing in the snow, sipping cocoa, and enjoying time with family, it can also mean expensive repairs and added stress if Old Man Winter takes a toll on your pipes. Most potential problems are easy and inexpensive to avoid with the right tools and a little planning.

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

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Truth Behind Black Roses

black rose

For centuries the colour black has been associated with death, decay and mystery; the black plague, the black underworld and the ‘black sheep of the family’. When we think of the rose, we imagine beauty, health and romance, a symbol of love and warmth. The Black rose is a mix of two opposites combining the mysterious with the beautiful.

Legend tells us that whoever receives a black rose will have a mystical and powerful experience. There are six types of black rose, the Black Baccara, Black Beauty, Black Magic, Black Ice, Black Velvet and Black Jade; all are such a deep red that they appear almost completely black.

The Black Baccara Rose

The Black Baccara rose with its velvet petals is the closest breeders have come to producing a naturally black rose. It is the darkest, most mysterious rose of them all. On its edges, the Baccara rose is almost black, but as the blossom unfurls, it reveals interior petals which are a rich burgundy red.

Black Baccara Roses were originally developed for the cut flower market, for they have an unusually long vase life as well as their unusual colouring. However, in 2004 the “Meidebenne” Black Baccara Hybrid Tea Rose was introduced for the garden and it has been discovered that it does not have a high resistance to disease. The Black Baccara Rose does not have a strong fragrance but adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to any garden that feeds it.

The Black Beauty Rose

The Black Beauty rose was introduced in 1973 from France. With large petals and long stems it is one of the Hybrid Tea varieties. They are similar to Black roses where they are having jet black in the bud stage, but will display a rich scarlet when they are wide open. The back of each petal is dark and velvety that feels soft and silky to the touch. This Black Beauty doesn’t have much fragrance; however the rose blooms all through summer and autumn. It is well worth pruning the Black Beauty rose, for when it blooms the colours are striking.

The Black Magic Rose

The Back Magic rose is the offspring of the ‘Guinee’ rose and has inherited its strong Damask perfume and rich red colour The black magic rose is a large flowered climber and they bloom for a significantly long time. These stunning flowers grow up to ten feet tall and fill the garden with a powerful burst of perfume. The Black Magic rose is strong, resistant to disease and extremely popular with rose enthusiasts around the globe.

The Black Ice Rose

The Black Ice is a cluster flowered Floribunda Rose and gets its name from the ‘Iceberg’ rose which is in the parentage. These wonderful roses have black buds that open up into beautiful scarlet blossoms that continue to grow throughout summer and autumn. They grow 2-3 feet in height.

The Black Velvet Rose

With its dark green leathery foliage, this large flowered Hybrid Tea is burgundy red with a black velvety look which is where its name originates. The roses grow one to a stem and grow up to six feet. The Black Velvet rose is known to be notoriously resistant to disease.

The Black Jade Rose

The Black Jade Rose has extremely strong stems that hold clusters of 5-10 blooms. Like most of its Black Rose cousins, the Black Jade rose is almost black as a bud, however when it opens up it reveals bright golden yellow stamens that contrast against the dark petals. The Black Jade rose is a repeat-flowering bush with glossy foliage and is extremely disease resistant. It grows up to three feet in height.

This post was supplied by Wesley Cude, Wesley is a keen gardener and writes for Midgard, Tree Surgeons in Surrey.

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Chase Away The Cold Weather With A Solar Hot Water System

Chase Away The Cold Weather With A Solar Hot Water System

For around 4.7 billion years the sun has warmed the Earth, this giant ball of gas and fire has given us light and energy, the sun even supply's us humans with vitamin D. Thanks to electricity and solar power you can now use the sun to heat your home and power all your electrical appliances. Solar power enables home owners to not only save money, many also make money by selling excess energy that they generate but don't use.

The simplest set-up is a hot water system

No weather is cold enough when you install a solar hot water system in your house. This system is very reliable and useful for every season especially during the winter months and cold weather spells. No matter how cold the weather gets, you will always have hot water within your reach. You can have access to hot water any time you need it when you have your own solar hot water system. If you install a system like this cold weather will not affect you as much.

Benefits of hot water

I expect you aware that bathing using cold water can be very difficult. If it's cold enough you may even develop hypothermia which could result in a more serious medical condition, even death. In this day and age many of us are lucky enough to have hot water in our homes. This means that unlike your ancestors you can avoid feeling cold, maybe even getting hypothermia when bathing.

Hot water is especially helpful for the elderly, children and young ones. As you know, the younger the age, the more sensitive to temperature. Children will struggle to tolerate cold water especially during winter and any other cold season. In fact, they may not be able to take a bath at all due to extreme coldness of the water. In order to provide warmth to your children, it is essential that you have some form of hot water system in your house. Many of us in the west will have access to hot or warm water 24 hours a day and 7 days a week anyway but solar can save us money.

How a basic solar hot water system works

However, in order to identify areas for improvement, it’s important to monitor your energy consumption. Energy usage meters can provide crucial data, to help you visualise energy spikes and establish the consumption of individual machines and appliances.Solar water systems require solar panels, also know as collectors these panels are fitted to your roof. As the name suggests the collectors collect heat from the sun and use it to heat up water which is then stored in a hot water cylinder. A boiler or immersion heater can still be used as a back-up or to heat the water further until it reaches the temperature you want. In the summer months a hot water system will probably be able to supply enough hot water for all your needs but in the winter a backup source may also be required.

With a solar water heating system children and the elderly will be able to enjoy their bath despite the cold weather and you won't need to worry about your energy bill, depending on your set up you may even be able to supply energy to the grid and get paid by your electricity supplier.

This post was supplied by Mark Stubbles, Mark writes for Getsolarpanelquotes.com a UK site which connects home owners with solar energy installation companies.

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How Energy Monitoring Can Reduce Your Emissions And Expenditure

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In a time of economic slowdown across the globe, business of all sizes must work hard to protect their bottom line. Even in times of austerity, climate change remains an ever-present issue; reducing your carbon footprint can also help you to control business expenditure.

Whilst being the catalyst for saving energy and reducing costs on a wider scale, businesses often overlook energy monitoring and usage management. Instead, many companies simply cut budgets or attempt to save money in other areas. However, by raising awareness of your energy consumption, your business can make tangible savings, as well as moving towards a greener future.

Strategy & Management

Energy management is all about limiting the effect that your company has on the environment. To achieve the best results, a strategic long-term plan needs to be introduced, outlining responsibilities, investment, procurement and overall communications. This will help promote understanding throughout the company, and make it easier to track each person's role in actioning specific tasks.

Monitoring & Moving Forward

However, in order to identify areas for improvement, it’s important to monitor your energy consumption. Energy usage meters can provide crucial data, to help you visualise energy spikes and establish the consumption of individual machines and appliances.

Recording this data will allow you to pinpoint the heaviest users of energy, which, in turn, will enable you to implement specific changes to energy consumption. With specialist software, you will be able to examine data collected over a period of months, analyse it and develop a robust strategy to manage and reduce your carbon footprint.

What’s more, this information will help you educate staff as to where energy consumption can be controlled, with simple but effective changes such as turning lights and appliances off when not in use. Setting realistic targets can promote implementation, without impacting the performance and operations of your business.

The Future

Energy monitoring and management should be an ongoing process for your business, as a means to promote gradual and lasting change for a greener future. In time and with the right information, energy usage will be reduced for your company, together with its associated costs.

From simple, everyday necessities such as lighting and heating, right up to identifying and sourcing raw materials, energy monitoring is the first step in managing business energy use efficiently and effectively. I hpe you find this information useful.

This article has been written by Kelly G Grassam with useful information from GMI Energy. Kelly can be found on Twitter at @KellyGGrassam if you fancy a follow :D

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Flooring Options For Your Conservatory

Flooring Options For Your Conservatory

Once you’ve settled on a conservatory design, then it’s time to choose the floor surface. Whether you’re starting from scratch with a new build or sprucing up an older extension, there are various options open to you.

Natural wood

This looks classy but can be higher maintenance and more vulnerable than other surfaces such as tile or laminates. If there are temperature fluctuations, it may be best avoided as it can expand and contract with hot and cold extremes, although it does create a very high quality finish.

Engineered wood

This gives a real wood ‘look’ but is more durable and likely less expensive to lay. There can still be issues with expansion and contraction in hotter and colder conditions, and you may need to factor in the cost of a UV lacquer to help prevent sun bleaching.

Carpet

This is a less popular option due to its vulnerability to foot traffic. If the conservatory serves as a gateway to the garden or patio, then frequent cleaning or removing stains may be result. It’s a ‘warm’ surface, so may be worth considering if outside access is less or non-existent and year-round use is desired.

Laminate

This is very cost-effective and can be bought in various finishes to look like wood, tile or stone. Laminates can be very durable and low maintenance; for example, spillages can be wiped up easily.

Check the quality of the product, though; some cheaper laminates might not have as effective water repellent properties as some of slightly higher price.

Stone

The ‘Rolls Royce’ of flooring options for many, stone is usually the most expensive option but ticks many boxes in terms of water resistance, durability, low maintenance and - to top things off – it delivers an elegant and classy look. Limestone, marble, granite and slate are the four usual alternatives to choose from.

There can be an element of risk from slipping if water gets on it, and some darker varieties may be a bit warm for bare feet on hot days, while being noticeably colder in the winter. Overall they’re a good choice for longevity, and the ‘cold feel’ drawback can be offset by underfloor heating.

Tile

Tiles offer another classic and classy surface - and sometimes they are preferred to stone as they can possess a warmer look. They are usually available in the following tile types:

  • Terracota - thicker and retain heat well but more prone to scratching

  • Porcelain - hardest type so more durable

  • Quarry - robust and available in shades of brown, red and grey

Bamboo

This maybe a bit of a ‘wild card’ flooring option, but it makes for an unconventional and environmentally friendly choice; bamboo grows quickly, too, so stocks are soon replaced.

Be aware that bamboo tends to darken over time, but it’s certainly tough, may be worth considering if you’re looking for something different.

Consider carefully

Different floors fulfil different needs - and different budgets of course - so it’s worth taking the time to choose the right floor. In particular, try and think of the year-round implications of your chosen surface and whether your conservatory may be asked to fulfil double duty in warm and cooler conditions.

Mark Caulfield is the Founder of bespoke conservatory designers, The Caulfield Conservatory Co, who are based in Harrogate.

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Home Improvements For The Summer

girl sit down on the floor

Summer is one of the best times of year to do some much needed maintenance for your home. The great weather is the perfect time to do outdoor inspections, and with the everyday heat you’ll want to ensure your air conditioning is in great working condition too. Read on for the full list of repairs, improvements, and maintenance you should plan to complete during beach and barbecue season.

Take Advantage of the Weather

Summer is typically the best time of year to get in your much needed repair and maintenance, especially if you weren’t able to do your annual spring cleaning. Because you’ll be able to be outdoors, this is the best time to do outdoor maintenance and checks as needed.

Two of the most important things to focus on during the warmer months are your sprinkler or irrigation systems as well as any developing cracks or holes in the driveway. For your sprinkler system, it’s best to check as much of the line as you can for leaks while also ensuring the sprinkler heads are positioned evenly over any plants or lawn. This helps to keep water waste down while keeping everything else green. As for the driveway, if you live in an area with tough winters, small cracks can develop and spread over time as water freezes and melts. You can keep small cracks from getting worse next year by filling them in with an asphalt sealer or a concrete repair caulk.

Just because it’s nice being outside, don’t disregard the house inside though. Checking pipes is a good idea to do during warmer months in order to spot any leaks or damages. Winter can be tough on pipes in older homes, and it’s good to check pipes in newer homes as well. Additionally, people typically use more water in the summer than other seasons due to using the hose, watering plants, and filling up kiddie pools or even full size pools. Don’t flush money down the tubes with an existing leak during these high water usage months.

But Don’t be Disadvantaged by it Either

Summer can be the hottest and most humid time of year too however, which can be a drag if you aren’t prepared. By focusing on a few different areas, you can keep cool and keep your house in great shape too.

The first thing to consider is your air conditioning. Central air conditioning will require some different checks than individual air conditioning units. For central air systems, you’ll want to change the filter and clean the two separate components – the condenser and the evaporator. However, for any repairs that are a bit more complicated, it’s best to call a professional repairman. As for the air conditioning units placed in windows, you’ll want to also change the filter and trim any shrubs, bushes, or other plants that may be blocking units outside the windows they’re placed in. This will help the unit to circulate air better while keeping the unit working more efficiently and for longer.

Finally, do regular checks for mold and mildew growing both inside and outside because of high humidity. You can use a bleach solution or other store bought mildew killing sprays to prevent it from spreading. Additionally, keeping plants away from the house will help prevent any mold from growing on the surface of the house too.

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

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