About 87% of American households have some form of AC unit installed. That works out to some 100 million units. And with the summers getting hotter every year, that percentage is only going to increase.

It’s no wonder why AC installation is such a huge business in the U.S. But by the same token, more and more homeowners are considering a DIY AC install for their next unit. These units don’t last forever, after all, and learning how to install an AC at home can save homeowners a tidy sum.

If this is the position you’re in, here are some tips on installing the two most common types of home AC units.

Installing Central AC

Most homes these days use a full-sized central AC unit. They’re the big metal boxes you’re used to seeing around the side of homes. And if you were to opt for professional AC installation, they’re likely the type of model you’d have put in.

Assuming that you’ve already bought your unit and had it delivered, here are the steps to install the unit.

Single Out a Location

You need to find a place outside that’s both out-of-the-way but which has easy access to your home’s ductwork. Ideally, your home’s designer will have left such a space when they planned your home.

Once you find the ideal spot, the best option is to install your unit on a poured concrete slab on ground level. While it is possible to install units on the roofs of certain homes, that’s probably outside most people’s idea of DIY AC installation unless you’re uncommonly ambitious.

In any case, the unit’s location needs to allow for adequate airflow and allow for easy access for maintenance.

Connect the System

With your location prepared, you can set up the system itself. Many of the specifics will depend on the model of unit you purchase, so be prepared to study the manual. However, there are some basic considerations in common regardless.

1. First, you need to secure the unit on the platform that you prepared for it.
2. After that, you need to configure the lengths of the refrigerant lines and drain piping.
3. Connect the electrical lines and thermostat, and clear the refrigerant lines of any contaminants.
4. Charge the unit with fresh refrigerant if it didn’t come precharged.
5. Run a test to make sure that everything is functioning properly.

And in the broad strokes, that’s all it takes to install a central AC unit. As noted, you’ll get more detailed instructions in your unit manual, but the above are the major steps in any installation.

Even if you’re not immediately planning on installing a new unit, a basic understanding of the process is useful to have if you’re wondering when to replace an AC unit. Your system might be running well enough now, but even well cared for units only tend to last about 10-15 years, so it’s an issue you’ll likely have to face sooner or later.

A DIY AC Install Made Simple

Installing a new AC unit seems like it would be a job “for the pros” exclusively. But when you break down the steps, performing a DIY AC install becomes a lot more plausible. And if you wanted to, you could literally pat yourself on the back with the wad of cash that you save.

It might even have you considering more DIY projects that could save you a bundle on painting and improving your home. For more ideas on where to start, be sure to keep up with our latest home and garden guides, hacks, and DIY solutions.

 

It’s a beautiful house and it’s in a wonderful neighborhood. The only apprehension is that you know that asphalt shingle roofs only last about 20 years and the owner says they redid the roofing about 17 years ago!

You know you can get a couple more years out of it before you need to replace the roof. But, you need to watch for warning signs that the roof is about to fail.

How can you tell when it’s time to replace the roof though? Keep reading for our top 5 telltale warning signs that you need a roof replacement.

1. Curling, Cracked, or Missing Shingles

One of the most obvious signs that you need a new roof is the condition of your shingles. If you’re missing shingles or if they have cracks or curl up at the edges, it’s time to tear the whole thing off and put in new shingles. If it looks like only a couple of the shingles are bad, then you may get away with replacing those ones for now.

2. Visible Holes

If you’re up in the attic on a sunny day and you see a beam of light shining right through, that’s a sign that you need to call a roofer for a roof repair ASAP! If light can get through your roof, so can the water molecules.

Make sure you’re hiring a skilled roofing company like freemangeneralcontracting.com so you know that they’ll get the repairs completed in a fast and professional way. You don’t want to have someone put a poor patch over the holes only to find that it made the leak worse!

3. It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

Even if your roof looks immaculate, time is a good indicator of when to replace that roof. Once your roof gets to between 20-25 years old, it’s time to replace it regardless of how it looks.

4. Greenery on the Roof

Social media would have you believe that growing moss and other green plants on your roof looks quaint and picturesque. What they don’t tell you is that it’s a real bad sign for the life expectancy of your roof!

Plants growing on your roof could show poor drainage in that area. Also, as plants grow, the roots do more damage to the roof as they dig around looking for nutrients!

5. Roof Sagging

Another warning sign is a sagging area of the roof. This is easiest to see if you take a few steps away from the house when you look at it. The roof shouldn’t bounce or give when you lean on it either.

Don’t Ignore a Leaky Roof or You’ll End Up With a Flood

Deciding when to replace your roof is hard. You want to get as much life out of the existing roof as possible, without waiting too long.

Keep these signs in mind and check your roof often. If you’re still unsure, have a professional do an inspection with you. They can even explain what they’re looking for.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that you learned about the 5 telltale warnings that you need a roof replacement. If you’re looking for more helpful articles about homes, finance, technology, and much more, check out the rest of our blog today!

 

Did you know that activities like gardening may cut the risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 50%? That’s only one benefit of gardening, though; it may also improve moods and bust stress.

Science backs all those health wonders, so it’s no wonder many people found relief in their lawns in 2020. That year, over 20 million people in the US tried their hands at gardening for the first time. In all, an estimated 63 million folks in the nation now tend to their gardens.

Still, that doesn’t mean no one no longer needs professional garden maintenance services. After all, it takes knowledge and years of experience to achieve a successful and lush garden.

While you don’t have to hire professionals all the time, it pays to know what they can do for you and your lawn. We’ll talk about these benefits in more detail below, so be sure to read on.

1. Keep Your Plants Disease-Free

Like people, plants can also get sick due to pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. And just like in humans, these germs can also cause infectious diseases in flora. This means the illness can spread from one plant species to another.

Indeed, scientists say that such infections can affect 70% to 80% of the total population of plants. Unless treated right away, they can wilt, rot, discolor, deform, or mummify. However, the worst that can happen is that the disease destroys the plants’ tissues and cause them to die.

Unless you’ve had the same training as pro gardeners, it can be easy to overlook plant disease. In addition, things can be even more challenging if you have a large lawn full of various species of flora. In this case, you may not have the time to look at each plant, much less inspect each of its leaves or stems.

Fortunately, professional garden maintenance providers can recognize plant disease early. For example, they know how to tell normal shedding from loss of leaves due to fungal infection. As soon as they determine it’s the latter, they can take steps to remove the fungi and help the plant recover.

Moreover, garden maintenance professionals understand how improper watering can cause leaf shedding. They also know that poor nutrition can make plants turn pale and yellow sooner. As such, they use their knowledge to ensure that your plants get the adequate amount of water and food they need.

2. Faster Way to Let Your Lawn Breathe

According to the folks at Heartlandturf.com, aeration improves airflow within the soil. In addition, it helps the soil absorb water better. These two are especially important in compacted or hardened soils.

Compacted or hard soils are soils whose pores have closed due to excessive weight and water. Warm or hot weather then dries them up while their pores remain sealed. The longer this cycle goes on, the harder and more untillable the soil can get.

Unfortunately, plant roots have a harder time penetrating compacted or hard soils. As a result, the roots may not reach the soil’s deeper, more nutrient-dense horizons (layers). Instead, the roots may only establish within the upper, superficial layers of the soil.

For the same reason, shallow roots are often unable to absorb adequate nutrition. Moreover, since their roots can’t go deeper, it can be easier for them to become uprooted.

Aeration can help treat and prevent more compaction as it introduces air into the soil. It does so by perforating the soil, usually with a device like a rake or a lawn core aerator.

A rake only gives superficial aeration, though. So, if you need more than that, a special aerating machine is a better choice.

However, it’s not cost-effective to buy an aerator, as you’d only need to aerate once every year or two.

Fortunately, simplified aeration is one of the benefits of garden maintenance services. You can hire gardening professionals to aerate your lawn and help it breathe again. When they go to your house, they’ll bring their own aerating machines.

3. Protection From Noxious (And Obnoxious) Weeds

Noxious weeds, under law, are weeds that can harm or injure ecosystems. As such, governing authorities consider them detrimental to ecosystems.

Noxious weeds are dangerous because they can wipe out plant species, including grazing. When this happens, animals and people can then lose significant sources of food.

What’s more, many types of noxious weeds are poisonous, with over 60 species growing in the US. Some of these include the Spotted Knapweed, Snakeweed, Poison Hemlock, and Leafy Spurge.

While not all weeds are noxious or toxic, you don’t want them to grow all over your lawn. For starters, weeds, by nature, develop and establish fast. This is usually due to their innate taller stature or larger embryos.

Letting weeds run wild in your lawn can then result in your prized plants getting sick or dying. After all, weeds compete for water, nutrients, and space, and they often win because of their height. Moreover, they germinate quickly, so ignoring them even only for a few days can lead to an overgrowth.

If you have a severe weed problem, garden maintenance experts can help solve it. They have all the right tools, from short-handled to long-handled weeders. They also provide chemical treatments specifically designed to control weeds.

You might want to consider chemical treatment if manual de-weeding isn’t enough. This can happen if your lawn houses dormant weed seeds, some of which can stay viable for up to eight decades. In this case, garden maintenance experts can use pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicides.

4. Prevent Plant Pests

Speaking of weeds, were you aware that many plants are also parasites? They’re parasitic as they attach to other plants and suck nutrients out of their hosts. This may sound like something out of a horror movie, but over 4,000 parasitic plants exist on the planet.

Unfortunately, pathogens and parasitic plants are not the only pests that affect plants. There are also multiple-legged critters (yes, we’re talking insects) regarded as plant pests.

Let’s start with the 400,000 to 500,000 insect species that feed on plant parts. Most of these creatures even eat entire plants, from the seeds to flowers and even the roots. These include locusts, crickets, stick bugs, beetles, and many moths and skippers.

As if that’s not bad enough, the babies (larvae) of most of those pests eat away at plants, too. Worse, many of these young bugs stay hidden, damaging plant parts from underground. White grubs are perfect examples; they’re among the worst enemies of your lawn and turf.

Garden maintenance professionals can help by using natural, organic, or chemical treatments.

Natural Nemesis

An example of natural treatment is the use of beneficial entomopathogenic nematodes. These are colorless, non-segmented roundworms. They’re often microscopic and usually live within the soil.

They’re beneficial because they can squash pests like grubs, beetles, caterpillars, and cutworms. They also attack crown borrowers, fungus gnats, and some types of rootworms.

Despite that, beneficial nematodes won’t harm other beneficial creatures, like earthworms. In addition, they aren’t dangerous to plants, animals, and people.

Organic Treatments

Organic fertilizers use biological materials, such as compost or manure. They’re organic as they come directly from natural sources, such as animals and plants.

On the other hand, inorganic fertilizers come from manufacturing facilities. They’re the ones you likely know as commercial or store-bought fertilizers. They usually contain stuff like ammonium phosphate, ammonium sulfate, and nitrogen.

The problem with inorganic fertilizers is that they seem to increase pest incidents. For example, researchers associate greater aphid and mite populations with nitrogen fertilizers.

On the other hand, organic fertilizers introduce less nitrogen to the soil. In this way, they may be able to prevent plant pests or at least reduce their populations.

Yes, you can apply organic fertilizers on your own. However, it can be easy to use too much of the stuff, especially if it’s your first time applying them. Even if the product you use is organic, over-fertilizing your lawn can still cause more harm than good.

So, it may be best to hire pros to do this laborious task on your behalf. Then, once you get the hang of it, you can try self-fertilization. Also, you can always ask pro gardeners for tips; they’re more than willing to share their knowledge.

Specialized Chemical Treatment

If you have a severe pest infestation, you may already need more aggressive treatment. In this case, it may be best to hire garden maintenance experts to avoid chemical accidents. Besides, your state may not allow regular consumers to buy special gardening chemicals.

Some examples of chemical treatments are anti-grub treatments, insecticides, and fungicides. Some of these products are for prevention, while others treat existing infestations. There are also curative fungicides that may stop further damage caused by fungi.

5. Protect Your Fam and House From Pests

Unkempt lawns can harbor pests that don’t feed on plants but warm-blooded animals. Yes, that includes you, your loved ones, and your four-legged family members. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are just a few blood-sucking pests that can live in your garden.

Fleas and ticks, for instance, prefer moist and shaded environments. So, if there are tall grass and unruly shrubs all over your lawn, fleas and ticks are likely hiding in them.

Unfortunately, fleas can transmit typhus to people and other animals. On the other hand, there are at least seven tick-borne diseases. Some of these are Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and anaplasmosis.

Mosquitoes can also be a problem if you have areas in your garden that collect water. For example, you may have overlooked ditches or uneven, basin-like spots on the ground. Water may pool up in these areas, giving mosquitoes a place to breed.

Now, please keep in mind that 12 mosquito species in the US cause diseases. These dangerous conditions include the West Nile virus, dengue, and Zika virus, to name a few.

Garden maintenance pros can help as their job is to keep your lawn immaculate year-round. What’s more, some of them offer programs designed to control fleas and ticks.

They can also help keep mosquitoes at bay by inspecting your lawn for areas that may collect water. In addition, they may offer mosquito control programs.

6. Near-Perfect Views All Year Round For Less

One of the best things about garden maintenance services is that you can book them only as needed.

For example, if you only need help with weeding or fertilization, you can hire the pros only for either. If you need help with aeration, mulching, or pest control, you can also enlist them only for those services. Many of them also offer weekly mowing and seasonal (as in spring and fall) garden maintenance.

That means you don’t have to hire an in-house gardener just so you can maintain the immaculate looks of your lawn. Do note that gardeners, on average, make a yearly salary of over $40,000. So unless you’re rolling where the grass is way greener, it may cost you less if you hire an on-demand gardener.

That way, you also get to keep gardening on your own while getting professional help. This joint effort with a professional can then help keep your lawn healthy and pretty all year round.

Professional Garden Maintenance Services for a Healthier Green Space

As you can see, there are many ways garden maintenance services can keep your lawn healthy and lush. From keeping plant diseases and pests at bay to expert de-weeding, you can rely on these pros any time of the year.

So, as early as now, consider hiring specialists who can help your flora flourish. Lastly, don’t forget that you can always ask them for gardening and even landscaping tips.

Looking for more educational guides on gardening or even home improvement? If so, feel free to browse and read our most recent news and blog articles!

Did you know that even the smallest plumbing leaks can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water annually?

Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, there will come a time when you need the services of a master plumber. The first thing you need to understand is that finding the right plumbing company may be trickier than you imagine.

Finding the right plumber in a plumbers market worth a monumental $124 billion and over 120,000 businesses is not easy. A bad plumber can turn out to be a nightmare when they escalate the plumbing issues and leave damages in their wake.

So, how do you find the right plumbing company? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps you need to take to find a reputable plumbing service. Keep reading to find out what factors you must consider to ensure you hire the best plumbing company.

Check Their Licensing and Credentials

One of the surefire ways of finding the best plumbing company in your area is by checking their credentials and Licensing. Many plumbing companies in the industry will be more than willing to take on the job. However, you have to find out whether they are well equipped to handle your project in the most professional manner.

Verify that they hold a valid license from relevant authorities in your state. A plumbing company can prove that they are well trained and educated in the field with a license. It shows they have at the very least basic competency to perform plumbing projects.

Essentially, the only way you can trust a plumbing company is if they are licensed to carry out the project. Regardless of how cheap a plumbing company is or how sweet their promises sound, never hire a company that does not prove their credentials.

Check Their Level of Experience

When searching for the best plumbing company, you want to ensure that you have a professional with the proper expertise. For this reason, it’s important for you to ask the plumber how long they have been in business. Even if their business is still young, the plumber in question may have been in the industry longer as an employee or contractor.

The number of years they have been active in the industry shows what you can expect of them. You see, plumbing issues are usually very sensitive. It’s very easy for an amateur plumber to dig up the wrong pipes and cause even more damage.

A professional contractor who has been around for many years will offer you exceptional services. Moreover, they should have a proven track record of successful plumbing projects similar to yours. With this information, it’ll be easier for you to trust that they’ll deliver impeccable results.

Get Recommendations

Even in the digital world we’re living in, word of mouth is still an effective marketing tactic like any other. It’s possible you can get quality recommendations from neighbors, family members, or friends who have previously had plumbing issues. It’s easier to trust a plumbing contractor who has already worked with a person you know and proven to be trustworthy.

Still, even with a recommendation, understand that plumbers specialize in different projects. It’s still critical for you to research the recommended plumbing companies.

Go online and check out their website to see what services they offer. Read customer reviews and testimonials, then go for an interview to verify they can handle your project.

Compare Company Price Quotes

One of the best ways to find a professional plumbing company is by comparing several businesses. The thing is, it would be a mistake to hire the first company you come across or the cheapest company you find. A company that charges cheaper may come with cheap materials or offer substandard workmanship.

This is the last thing you want because the repairs will not last, and you’re bound to have more plumbing problems sooner rather than later. What you want here is to find the best company that offers cost-effective services.

This means that they are reasonably priced for the materials and services rendered without going overboard. Compare about three companies and choose the most competitive prices based on the services offered.

Check if They Offer Warranties or Guarantees

Your property is one of the biggest investments you’ll possibly ever make, so you need to make sure that it’s protected.

Find a master plumber that will offer you a warranty for materials and a guarantee for quality services. A plumbing service that offers guarantees is confident in the services and workmanship they offer, so you have little to worry about.

This means that a warranty and a guarantee will give you peace of mind in knowing that you’re getting high-quality services. You’ll also have an assurance of refunds or repairs should anything go wrong.

Check That They’re Sufficiently Insured

A professional plumbing company will have sufficient insurance policies to protect them and their clients. Ensure that the company has a general insurance policy and a workers’ compensation policy. A general insurance policy will protect against any damages that occur on-site.

Without this insurance policy, any damages that occur will be on you, and it could cost you a lot of money. A workers’ compensation insurance, on the other hand, will protect against any injuries that occur on site. If the contractors are injured on your property, the workers’ compensation will pay for medical bills and lost wages.

Look for Interpersonal Skills

It’s important to hire a plumbing company with friendly plumbing contractors. You should be able to talk freely and ask any questions you have about your plumbing situation. When it’s easy to get along with them, it’ll be easy to explain what you want and feel comfortable inviting them into your home.

Responsiveness to Emergencies

When searching for a professional plumbing company, check how swiftly they respond to emergencies. Plumbing emergencies are usually quite hard to contain, and you may have to deal with water damages and mold if not caught in time.

A plumbing emergency cannot wait like other smaller issues could, so look for a company that operates 24/7 and responds immediately.

Finding the Best Plumbing Company: Top Tier Tips

If you’re currently in the market for a professional plumbing company, these are some of the tips you should be looking for. Make sure you scrutinize their licensing, insurance, and skill-set before hiring them. Ensure they’re responsive to emergencies then compare quotes from several companies to get the best possible deal.

If you like this post, kindly check out our blog section, where we have a lot more valuable content for you.

Did you know that each year hurricanes cause roughly $54 billion in damage? While a lot of this damage is unavoidable, the reality is that a good deal of it could be prevented with proper weatherproofing techniques.

Whether you want to prevent weather-related damage, or just want to make sure that the cold/warm air stays outside, you can benefit from a weatherproof house. But, how do you go about making these changes? And what should you focus on?

If you want to learn the answer to these questions and more, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through some ways that you can weatherproof your house. Let’s get started!

Insulate Your Home Often and Perform Upkeep Checks

There are two main reasons why you want to make sure that your home is properly insulated. For one thing, it can cut down on your heating and cooling bill. Without a properly insulated home all of your heated or cooled air is leaking out of your home.

As such, your HVAC system needs to work twice as hard to make up for the lost air. The second reason is that a home that isn’t insulated can easily let water in. And, as any homeowner knows, water damage needs to be avoided at all costs.

So, how do you find out if there are leaks around your home? One way is to hire a professional to identify all of them. However, you can also try a do-it-yourself method. Light a candle and take it around the doors, windows, and other openings in your home.

If you notice it flickering, then that means there is a leak in your home that needs to be filled. You can do this by weatherstripping the opening. Or, you can use a caulk gun to seal it off. We recommend performing regular upkeep checks to ensure that you aren’t missing any draft leaks.

Install Storm Windows

If you live in an area with frequent hurricane weather or just a lot of rain, then it’s essential to install storm windows. These are windows that significantly reduce the amount of airflow in and out of your house.

As their name suggests, they’re also great at keeping out water from storms. This, in turn, makes your home dramatically more comfortable. Just make sure that you hire a professional to do it right, or you won’t get any of the benefits.

If you can, then we also recommend installing recessive windows. These types of windows divert water away from your house when it rains.

Use the Right Type of Paint on the Exterior of Your Home

Many people seem to forget that the paint on the exterior of your home is the first line of defense against the weather. Multiple types of weather can affect your home gradually over time. For example, UV rays from harsh sunlight can cause the paint of your home to crack off and peel.

Similarly, extreme winds can cause objects and debris to scrap the side of your house. And, if you live in a particularly wet climate, then frequent rain and humidity can cause mold and other bacteria to grow on your exterior.

The good news is that there are a variety of exterior paints that can actively fight against all of these weather problems. Just make sure that you choose the right brand that’s specifically engineers for exterior use. We also recommend investing in a primer to ensure a strong base coat.

Don’t Forget About Your Garage Doors

Sadly many homeowners are so concerned with weatherproofing their attics or basements that they completely forget about their garage doors. Your garage door doesn’t just protect your home from burglaries, it’s also responsible for keeping a major section of your home safe from water and wind damage.

As such, we recommend a hurricane-rated garage door. These products are tough enough to survive extreme damage from a hurricane, or just the day-to-day wear and tear that accompanies any home.

On top of that, they can also keep water from entering your home and causing serious damage. If you want to learn more about these benefits, then make sure to check out his guide on hurricane-rated garage doors.

Consider Upgrading Your Home With Hurricane-Resistant Design Features

If you’re tired of suffering from storm damage, then it’s time to upgrade your home with a design that naturally resists hurricanes. Make no mistake, this will be an expensive process. It often involves replacing whole sections of your home.

However, when you think about it, it’s better to actively try and solve the root of the problem, instead of continuously paying for repairs. If you rebuild your home the same way every time it’s damaged, then you’re just putting out fires instead of preventing.

So, what parts of your home should you consider upgrading? Here are some areas we recommend focusing on:

• Roofs and overhangs that are peaked to lessen rain deposition
• Plants and landscape designs that reduce the exposure of rain and wind to your home
• Surface textures on your wall that naturally repel water
• Hurricane shutters to protect against strong rain and wind
• Hurricane-resistant foundations with floor joists
• Draining systems like gutters that deposit water as far away from the house as possible

Enjoying Your Weatherproof House? Keep Reading

We hope this article helped you learn more about how to weatherproof your home for both hot and cold seasons. As you can see, weatherproofing can involve a lot of effort. In some cases, it can even involve an entire redesign.

However, nothing beats the peace of mind that comes with having a weatherproof house. So, start making a plan to implement some of these tips before storm season rolls around.

Did you enjoy this article? If the answer is yes, then you’re in the right place. Keep exploring to find more topics that you’re sure to love.

Modern HVAC systems can last for up to 15 years or longer if they’re well-maintained. That includes preventative maintenance along with regular repairs and part replacements.

When you’re a new homeowner, you probably assume that the best line of action is to call a professional each time you need HVAC repair. While you’ll always need professional assistance, are these individual repair jobs the best way to go about it?

You may be thinking, what’s the alternative? We’re going to talk about the HVAC maintenance contract and why it may be worth your while.

Read on to find out more about what is included in an HVAC maintenance contract and how to decide if you need one.

What Is an HVAC Maintenance Contract?

When you have a new HVAC unit installed or hire an HVAC contractor for the first time, it’s not unusual to be offered an HVAC maintenance contract. When the contract is offered in conjunction with a new HVAC unit, you may think of it as something like a warranty.

What is an HVAC maintenance contract? While the specifics may vary, the idea is the same: you pay a set or rolling service fee in exchange for guaranteed service. HVAC maintenance contracts include things like:

• checkups and tune-ups
• seasonal HVAC maintenance
• emergency services
• free or reduced-cost parts replacement
• priority treatment

It’s not uncommon for residential HVAC contractors like the ones at sanfranciscoheatingandairconditioning.com to offer tiered contracts to make it easier to secure services within your budget.

What Are the Benefits of Signing an HVAC Maintenance Contract?

It’s easy enough to assume that when we need HVAC services, we’ll schedule them. However, this tends to occur only when something goes awry, making our HVAC systems temporarily unusable.

As the climate across the globe continues to break records and reach new extremes, reactive HVAC maintenance is no longer enough. Preventative services that come with an HVAC maintenance contract ensure that you’ll never be left without heating or cooling when you need it.

In the long run, preventative maintenance tends to cost less than reactive maintenance. With regular checkups and tune-ups, your HVAC contractor can spot trouble areas before the spread. When you’re always reacting to a problem that has already set in, it’s likely that several components need repair or replacement–or that the entire system needs replacement.

Do What’s Best for Your HVAC Unit and Your Wallet

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a long-time homeowner looking for new ways to approach maintenance, you’re probably wondering what’s best for your HVAC unit. Talk to your local HVAC contractor about the HVAC maintenance contract they offer and find out if it will work for your HVAC unit and your wallet. Chances are, it will!

Looking for more ways to protect your home and your finances? Take a look around for home improvement guides, financial tips, and more content that will help you get the most out of your property and your money.

Did you know, according to Consumer Reports, furnaces can last 15 to 20 years? Whether you’re servicing an existing furnace in your home or need to buy a replacement, these machines are built to last. That means furnaces for your home heating system can be a wise investment that can help you save money over time.

You may know that an oil furnace is meant to supply heat to your home. But do you understand the different types of furnaces? Do you know how a furnace works?

Understanding the ins and outs of this heating system is crucial as a homeowner. With this increased knowledge, you’ll be able to troubleshoot should anything go wrong with the heating system.

And in the case you need professional help, you’ll be up to speed on critical furnace lingo. Read on to learn how oil furnaces work in this easy-to-follow guide.

What Is an Oil Furnace?

An oil furnace is one type of system you can use to heat your home. Oil furnaces are large machines that require a separate space. Many homeowners will find oil furnaces in a storage room, closet, or basement for security and safety reasons.

Unlike gas or electric furnaces that run on other elements, an oil furnace runs on oil and presents additional benefits. For example, oil furnaces tend to be more cost-effective than their counterparts and may require less maintenance or repairs over time.

The Process

An oil furnace works in a simple and powerful way to heat your home. But remember, these complex machines do a lot of work to keep you comfortable.

So, you may benefit from hiring an oil furnace service. Let’s dive in to understand the steps:

Thermostat

Supplying heat to the home starts with controlling the thermostat. When you set the thermostat to the desired heat level, the furnace works behind the scenes to pump heat into the house. If the heat levels in your home fall too low, the furnace automatically upticks heat distribution by working to keep the house at a safe and comfortable temperature.

Fuel Pump and Conversion

How does the furnace communicate to the thermostat? Through a fuel pump to conversion.

An oil furnace uses a heat pump to pull oil from the reserve tank. Then, the oil converts and passes through a filter.

Chamber

Once the oil is filtered, it enters the chamber. In the chamber is where the heat magic begins. The oil begins to warm and heat to the desired temperature.

Duct System

After the oil is heated, it is released through a duct system. The duct system is what forcibly pushes the hot air out into your home. This is typically completed through vents or other ventilation.

An Oil Furnace Efficiently Powers Your Home

An oil furnace may look like an intimidating machine, but this guide can help you understand the benefits and how it works. In just four steps, this furnace converts oil to heat which warms your home and keeps you safe and comfortable.

Did you find this information interesting? Then, check out our other home stories.

Did you know that the average roof has a lifespan of 15 years? And depending on the material and type of roof you have, there is the potential for it to last even longer. But a key factor in that equation is how well you take care of your roof, so it’s important to protect your investment with regular maintenance.

Gutter cleaning is an important step in maintaining good roof health. Do you need to have your gutters cleaned but don’t know how to choose the right gutter cleaning companies for you? Check out these top five tips for picking the right service for your roof.

1. References and Reviews

The first step in your roof gutter cleaning journey is to go online and read reviews about your local companies. Seeing what past clients have said can be very helpful in determining if they are right for you. Once you have done that, don’t get afraid to ask your potential companies if they have references or a portfolio of work.

2. Choose Gutter Cleaning Companies With Experience

It may sound obvious, but it’s always a good idea to pick a company that has ample experience. Don’t go on the gutter cleaning cost alone, because a less reputable or inexperienced company may charge less. And while it may be tempting to ask your neighborhood handyman to do the job, it’s better to find someone that specializes in eavestroughs.

3. Check Licences and Insurance

One of the most important things to do when choosing a gutter cleaning service is to check their business license and insurance. Accidents can happen on the job, so make sure that they have proper liability insurance. Having workmen’s compensation insurance is another plus.

4. Warranty

Another thing to ask for is whether or not the company will guarantee their work with a warranty. A professional gutter cleaning company will be able to provide you with one for a certain period of time. This can help give you peace of mind that the job has been done right, and that they will stand by their work.

5. Free Quotes

The final step in the process is to have your potential gutter cleaning come out and give you an estimate. You should be able to have a free quote done for this small service. And it will give you a better understanding of what the cleaning entails, and how much gutter cleaning prices are so that you can budget.

Experience the Benefits of a Professional Cleaning

Now that you’ve learned how to vet gutter cleaning companies, you can pick one with confidence. You can be proactive by reading references and reviews and making sure that the companies have licenses and insurance. Finally, your potential company should come out and provide you with a free quote for your gutter cleaning.

Did you find this article helpful? If so, check out some of the other useful topics on this site!

Are you trying to cut down on your electricity costs? Are you wondering whether propane heat is the best answer?

Over 50 million people think so in the US who use propane in their homes for different purposes. A propane tank can be a cost-effective solution, as there are many different uses of propane.

The benefits of propane also include that it is a non-toxic fuel. So you can have a propane tank above ground and not worry about contamination. Plus, it means it is more environmentally friendly.

If you are interested in learning more about the cost-effective uses of propane, read on!

Propane Heat

You can use propane heat for your heating system in your home. Or you could use it for temporary heating or as your auxiliary heating if you need a backup heater. Propane heating gets hotter than electric heat, is more dependable, and can be cheaper.

Cooking

Are you regularly cooking and eating at home? You can use propane to fuel your cooktops and oven. Propane heat has better heat control than other gas options, so it is more cost-efficient and saves on electricity costs.

Hot Water

The uses of propane also extend to hot water in your home. They often take up less space, can offer annual energy savings, and are easy to install. When searching for a propane supplier, you can ask what propane tank is best suited for you.

Propane Fireplaces

Propane fireplaces are also cost-effective short-term and long-term. There is minimal maintenance, as you do not need to maintain the fire and clean up after constantly. And its efficiency can offer long-term energy savings.

Drying Laundry

Propane dryers are popular choices for commercial and residential dryers because they are a smart investment. They dry clothes faster and efficiently. Plus, they have the latest technologies, such as steam cycles to de-wrinkle clothes, so you get the best outcomes without hassle.

Generators

Some people choose to have a propane tank that fuels their generator, which can be a backup option when adverse weather or other events strike. Or, if they are off-grid, propane can be their main fuel for their home.

A propane tank is capable of powering home appliances, thanks to many being compatible with propane. You can find one that matches your needs, but it will certainly give you peace of mind during adverse weather events.

Outdoor Activities

For when winter passes, a propane tank still has its uses. Propane has you covered, whether you want a pool heater for your swimming pool or other summer activities. The possibilities are limitless, as propane can fuel grills, firepits, and more!

Cost-Effective Uses of Propane

A propane tank can is a cost-effective solution for many appliances and functions in your home. If all the uses of propane appeal to you, consider a propane tank to fuel your home. Consult with a reputable propane supplier for more advice on what type of propane tank is best for you.

Did you like this article? Read on for more helpful posts to save you money!

There are many misconceptions out there about smart homeownership. It can be tricky to navigate the endless reels of content and articles surrounding the contested topic of smart homes.

Not only as they an innovative home design, but they can adapt and change to suit the newest upgrades brought out by the technology industry.

So here’s a list of all the common myths that surround smart homeownership. And let’s debunk them.

1. You Need to be a Technology Master to Use Smart Home Tech

This is categorically not true. A lot of people assume that smart homes will be tricky and difficult to use. A lot of technology only requires the downloading of an app onto your smartphone.

Then it’s simply a case of setting up your chosen device to your home WIFI network and you are ready and online!

If you need to mount any of your devices to a wall for easy access, why not get yourself a couple of iPhone wall mounts?

2. You Don’t Have Privacy with Smart Technology in a Home

It is true that there have been occasions where data and security have been compromised with a number of companies over the past few years. Usually, with smart homes, there’s no reason for you not to feel safe.

However, if you want to be extra cautious, avoid any devices with a camera or a microphone attached to them. Also, use passwords that have a complicated format, and remember not to reuse any passwords across websites.

3. Smart Homes Use a Lot of Energy

This is one of the biggest myths about smart homeownership. Smart apps and designs are built to consider lower energy consumption and use comparatively less energy than regular gadgets and objects.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that they aren’t ecologically mindful. Smart homes can be designed to control and monitor the wastage of energy and adjust accordingly.

4. Smart Homes are too Expensive

Yes, if you are looking into a custom design house that’s built around smart home principles then it will be an expensive house. However, if you are looking to upgrade an existing or new home with smart technology, it’s much more budget-friendly.

There are specialist companies that can equip and adapt your home. However, it can be something you as an individual can modify with a few simple steps.

5. Smart Devices aren’t Actually Useful for Your Home

Smart devices for your home can be incredibly helpful, especially when you live a busy life. If you are struggling with bags of shopping, how handy would it be for you to voice activate the garage or front door to open?

What about turning the heating on and off by voice activation alone? Light switches off and on by one simple command? Setting your coffee machine to make a coffee so it’s there for when you wake up?

The possibilities are endless. A smart home can really make life so much easier.

Where Can I Find Out More About Smart Homeownership?

Choosing to pursue smart homeownership makes sense in a modern world where so much in the home can be accessed through Bluetooth and WIFI.

Help make life in your home a more streamlined experience through smart devices.

If you enjoyed this article, check out our other blog posts on this site!