Hot Tub, Spa, and Sauna Electrical Systems: What You Need to Know

A luxurious home with an outdoor pool and hot tub surrounded by palm trees, featuring elegant architecture, lush landscaping, blue sky, and natural lighting
Adding a hot tub, spa, or sauna to your home can provide a luxurious way to relax and unwind. However, maintaining these amenities involves more than just regular cleaning and chemical balancing. One crucial aspect that often goes overlooked is the electrical system. Understanding the basics of hot tub, spa, and sauna electrical systems can help ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your equipment.

Understanding Electrical Systems for Hot Tubs, Spas, and Saunas

Electrical systems for hot tubs, spas, and saunas are designed to power various components such as pumps, heaters, lights, and control panels. These systems are complex and require proper installation and maintenance to function correctly and safely. Here are the key elements you need to know about:

Pumps and Motors

The heart of your hot tub or spa’s circulation system is the pump. It moves water through the filtration system, ensuring that your hot tub or spa stays clean and clear. The motor, which powers the pump, needs a reliable electrical connection to operate effectively. Ensuring that your pump and motor are correctly wired and grounded is essential for safe and efficient operation.

Heating Elements

Maintaining a comfortable water temperature is essential for hot tubs and spas, requiring the use of heaters or heat pumps. These devices rely heavily on the electrical system. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to avoid overloading the circuit and to ensure efficient operation. Regular inspections can help identify and address any issues early.

Lighting

Lighting in hot tubs, spas, and saunas not only enhances the ambiance but also improves safety by illuminating the area. LED lights are a popular choice due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. Proper installation and waterproofing of these lights are crucial to avoid electrical hazards.

Control Panels and Safety Devices

Control panels allow you to adjust settings such as temperature, jet pressure, and lighting. These panels are intricate electrical components that need to be installed correctly to function properly. Additionally, safety devices like Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are essential in these environments to protect against electrical shock by cutting off power when an imbalance is detected in the electrical current.

Hiring a Professional Spa Electrician

While homeowners can do some maintenance tasks, a professional spa electrician should always handle electrical work. They have the expertise to ensure all electrical components are installed according to local codes and safety standards. A qualified electrician can also perform regular inspections to identify and fix potential issues before they become serious problems.

Maintenance Tips

  1. Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections of your hot tub, spa, or sauna’s electrical system to catch any issues early.
  2. Keep It Dry: Ensure all electrical components are protected from water. Use weatherproof covers and enclosures where necessary.
  3. Update Old Systems: If your electrical system is outdated, consider upgrading to modern, energy-efficient equipment.
  4. Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the basics of your hot tub, spa, or sauna’s electrical system. Knowing what each component does can help you spot potential issues and communicate effectively with your electrician.

Conclusion

A well-maintained electrical system is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your hot tub, spa, or sauna. By understanding the basics and working with a professional spa electrician, you can enjoy your amenities with peace of mind. Regular maintenance and timely upgrades will ensure that your hot tub, spa, or sauna remains a safe and enjoyable space for years to come.

When Is The Best Time of the Year to Pressure Wash Your House?

Outdoor floor cleaning with a pressure water jet on street

Many people think that it is okay for them to pressure wash their homes at any time. However, some times of the year are much better than others. You should pressure wash your home between  March and November. There are several reasons you should pressure wash your home between  March and November.

The Temperature

The ideal temperature for pressure washing is between 45 degrees and 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Freezing temperatures make it dangerous to pressure wash your home during the winter. The cold weather can do a lot of damage to your pressure washing equipment. That is why you should pressure wash your home in the fall, summer, or spring.

In warmer climates, it might be beneficial to hire a pressure washing service in the winter months. There could be more availability of services and the company might offer discounts. For example, a  pressure washing service in Charlotte, NC can probably work year-round. 

Keep Allergens at Bay

Many people suffer from allergies all year long. Pressure washing your home will help keep the allergens at bay. Dust, pollen, and other irritants are rampant between March and November. These allergens can make your allergies worse by clinging to your home. Pressure washing will help remove those allergens.

Boost the Curb Appeal

A good pressure washing will boost the curb appeal. A home or property that is freshly clean will be more inviting. It will also make the entire yard look better.

Undo Damage Caused by Winter or Prepare for the Winter

A pressure washing in the spring or fall can either prepare your home for the winter or undo the damage that is caused by the winter. A spring pressure washing will remove the stains caused by snow and ice. Your home will look better after the winter grime is removed. Pressure washing your home before the winter can minimize the amount of damage that is done to you.

Protect Your Property

Pressure washing your home during the fall, spring, or summer will help protect your property. It will prevent dirt and grime from building up. It will also prevent mold from building up. This mold can do a lot of damage to your property.

How Often Do You Need to Pressure Wash Your Home?

Most homes only need to be pressure washed once or twice a year. However, several factors will determine this. For example, if you live near a dirt road, you will likely need to pressure wash your home more frequently. It is also a good idea to wash your home after a storm.

 

Professional Carpet Cleaning is a Must for Allergy Sufferers

When using First Aid, rescue personnel focus on breathing as one of the most important steps in assisting an injured or ill person. This is because healthy breathing is an essential health issue. Why do many people live in unpleasant conditions that affect their breathing and overall health? They may not realize that help is available. They may not know that they can do something about their situation.

 

Allergy Sufferers
Allergies often run in families and so if the adults experience allergy symptoms, so do their children. If this is the situation in your home, then helping everyone experience easier breathing should be a top priority.

Nature Comes Calling
Many sources of allergens live right in our homes. Dogs and cats produce allergens, but many families love their animals. How do you deal with this? Here are some suggestions:

  • Remove heavy curtains and carpeting
  • Groom animals frequently
  • Have a regular cleaning schedule to remove dander
  • Consider animals with fewer allergen issues
  • Rely on professional carpet cleaning

Pets aren’t the only source of allergens in your house. Pollen blows in through open windows and gets tracked in on shoes. If you’ve ever hung laundry outside or spent the evening enjoying a fire pit, you unintentionally collected pollen and other particles on your clothing. Practice laundering after outdoor events, and keep shoes near the door rather than wearing them throughout the house.

Children And Their Spills
If you have children in your home, then you have accidental spills. As a busy parent, you may not even know about some accidents, or you simply can’t clean them up right away. A spill can become more than just a stain on your carpet.

It can become a source of trapped moisture hidden beneath your carpeting. A professional cleaning will prevent these problem areas from becoming a source of mold or mildew.

You can take other steps as well:

  • Restrict food and drinks to certain parts of the house
  • Teach younger children to let you know if there’s been a spill
  • Teach older children how to clean up little messes immediately
  • Place smaller rugs over the carpeting in areas where children spend their time
  • Use stain guard carpeting and furniture

Final Thoughts
In handling allergen issues in your home, develop a system where the entire family helps out. Remember to ask for professional help, too.

Once you’ve gotten used to the routine, preventing allergens in your home will be part of daily life. And so will healthy, easy breathing.

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8 Tips for Homeowners to Help With Choosing Carpet for Their Homes

If you are a current homeowner who has noticed that the carpet within your property’s premises doesn’t necessarily satisfy your own preferences or criteria for essential elements of interior designing, then you may want to consider looking into a vendor that provides you with an optimal selection of choices for high-quality grades of carpeting.

 

When it comes to shopping for carpeting, it is highly imperative for you as a homeowner to ensure that the quality of your choice(s) is of high grade. The manufacturing process should consist of ensuring that all threads are kept intact to a point where the fibers will not come apart or fray upon the slightest instances of contact. Unfortunately, there are a vast array of carpet types in today’s industries that aren’t made well. This can lead to one’s carpeting becoming damaged very easily. It will be beneficial for you as a prospective investor in carpeting to ensure that the manufacturing process has been proven as being legitimate and dependable. A home is often considered to be one of the highest-valued assets anyone can have ownership of. Therefore, it will only be an advantage for the said owner(s) to ensure that they are taking the proper steps towards not only retaining the value of their home property but also potentially increasing its value for the future. When choosing the carpet for your home property, you will want to ensure that the color and texture are compatible with your current styling of interior design. Why choose a type of carpeting that ends up mismatching your home’s current style? Not only is this unattractive, but it can also be detrimental to your property’s overall appraisal value. Prospective home buyers want to walk into a home that shows them that the previous owner(s) knew what they were doing when it comes to interior design. A great amount of a home’s value is derived from the interior design elements contained within it. Another aspect of one’s carpet buying experience should consist of looking into the fiber type. If you have children in your household, you may want to invest in a type of carpet that is easy to clean if there happen to be many instances of stain smudging onto it. Also, the toughness of your chosen carpet may be an important aspect of future decisions in hiring carpet cleaners for maintenance as well. Whichever option of carpeting you make, be assured that you will be happy with the outcome of your property’s final look!

 

How to Know If Your Air Ducts Need Cleaning

Do you remember the first time you had to clean your air ducts? If not, then it’s probably because they don’t need cleaning. Air ducts are very efficient at catching dust and debris that might otherwise circulate throughout the house. However, if you have noticed that there is a lot of dust on your furniture or in corners of rooms where it doesn’t normally accumulate, this may be an indication that your air ducts need some attention. It’s not always easy to know when your air ducts need cleaning. However, close observation of the signs will be key to offering guidance on the appropriate time to handle the cleaning. Proper understanding of these signs will help in the making of informed decisions.dirty air duct

-Foul odors coming from vents – If you notice a strong or detectable odor coming from any air vents in your home, this could be an indication that there is particle build-up, humidity, or a lack of airflow due to insufficient ductwork.

-Dust and debris on furniture – If you see an increase in the amount of dust that accumulates on your furniture, especially near vents from heating/cooling systems, this may indicate poor airflow which is caused by particles blocking ventilation passages. A professional can inspect your system for any potential damage that might be leading to reduced airflow through the unit.

-Dirty coils – One common sign that there is a problem with your system’s coil (or evaporator coil) is when you notice dirt collecting around it. The collection only happens if the blower has been running while dirty air was passing over its surface. Dirt collects more easily on cool surfaces. If you notice this, it’s likely that the coil is dirty and needs to be cleaned.

-Poor heating – Poor airflow may lead to poor indoor air quality which can affect your health. Low air quality can cause stuffy noses, dry throats, or even sore chests. This happens because when there isn’t enough fresh air coming into a room, pollutants become concentrated in low areas of the room where they stagnate. Air duct cleaning will help reduce these symptoms for everyone living in the home including young children and infants who are more susceptible to respiratory problems from exposure to polluted indoor air.

-Corrosion on the metal components -Metal parts in the system are prone to corrosion over time due to exposure to inside walls and other areas where water can cause rusting. If these materials begin to look corroded it’s important not only for health reasons but also for the duct efficiency to handle the replacement if left unattended for too long.

-Frequent breakdowns -If you find yourself having frequent issues with appliances like heaters or cooling systems, even though all required maintenance was completed last season, then it might suggest that your ducts require cleaning as well. When particles accumulate within the HVAC system, it causes more strain on the equipment which leads to increased breakdowns.

How Do I Know When It’s Time to Replace My Roof?

Most of the time, the roof isn’t an element of a home that homeowners think about on a regular basis. In general, they don’t think about the roof until there’s a problem. By the time a problem becomes obvious, though, the damage could already be significant. For that reason, it’s important to know how to spot the signs that it’s time to replace your roof.

The Age of Your Roof
Roofs don’t last a lifetime. In fact, most of them only have a 20-year warranty depending on the materials with which they’re made. Consider how long that you’ve had your roof. If it’s 20 years or older, it might be time to think about replacing it.

Are you unsure how old your roof is? Pay attention to how it looks from the curb. Do you see a lot of streaking and large areas of disrepair? If so, these are signs that you should replace the shingles. If you feel comfortable enough to get on your roof, check the most problematic areas, such as the flashing around the chimney and other joints.

Loose Granules
As shingles age, the granular surface starts to break away. As a result, granules build up in your yard or in your gutters. If you notice this, your asphalt shingles will need replacing sooner rather than later.

Keep in mind that, if your house sits underneath the cover of large trees, you might notice granules breaking loose from the shingles faster than normal. That’s because the trees provide shade, which means that the shingles stay wet for longer than if they got more sunlight. This allows algae and other plant life to grow on the shingles, which breaks down their integrity.

Leaks in the Attic
Before you notice a leak in the living spaces of your house, it will start in the attic. Because of that, it’s a good idea to go up there after heavy rainstorms to look for wet spots along the roofing deck. Haven’t had rain in a while? You can still check for water stains. If you notice any, your roof needs repairs or possibly a replacement.

Rising Energy Bills
Did you know that your roof acts as an insulator against cold and heat invading your house? It does, which is why rising energy bills can be a sign that it’s time to replace your roof. At this point, consider investing in a roofing material that reflects sunlight, like a metal roof, to further lower your energy bill.

Using the information above, you can spot signs that it’s time to replace your roof before major damage occurs. The quicker that you notice these warning signs, the more damage that you can prevent. When it comes to fixing and maintaining your roof, don’t procrastinate. Be sure that you keep up with routine maintenance such as gutter cleaning and shingle replacement. 

 

What is the difference between Soft Washing and Pressure Washing?

Cleaning your home’s exterior is a simple and budget-friendly way to boost its curb appeal and keep it looking clean and fresh all year long. Not only does it improve your property’s appearance, but it also cuts down on hazards posed by mold, fungus, and mildew. Whether you’re planning to have your home professionally cleaned or do it yourself, you’ll need to decide between pressure washing and soft washing.

Most exterior cleaning companies offer both pressure washing and soft washing services. The cleaning experts can help you determine which option is best for your home, but as the property owner, it’s good to go into the conversation with a solid understanding of both options. Ultimately, the decision to use pressure washing or soft washing depends on which area of the property you plan to wash.

What is Pressure Washing?
A pressure washer is a specialized tool that shoots out a jet of highly pressurized water to clean surfaces. Water emerges from the washer’s hand wand at a pressure of up to 2,500 PSI (pounds per square inch). This makes pressure washing an excellent way to strip away built-up grime, dirt, and mildew that would otherwise be tough to remove with a regular hose.

Pressure washing concrete

Pressure washing is an extremely effective cleaning technique, but the powerful strength of the water can easily damage certain surfaces. It’s not unheard of for a pressure washer to strip away paint, damage shingles, dent siding, and destroy screens. That’s why pressure washing is only recommended for specific surfaces that are durable enough to withstand the highly pressurized water.

Use pressure washing for surfaces like:

  1. Concrete driveways and sidewalks
  2. Brick paver patios
  3. Brick or stone siding

What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing is another popular cleaning method used on exterior surfaces. Instead of relying on highly pressurized water to get the job done, soft washing uses chemicals. Although the specific type of detergent formula varies between brands, they’re generally not considered hazardous to your property or the environment. The chemicals are sprayed out of the hand wand at a pressure of less than 1,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), which makes soft washing much safer for more delicate surfaces.

soft washing wood exterior
Soft washing should be used on surfaces like:

  1. Wood siding
  2. Window screens
  3. Screened-in porches
  4. Cedar shake siding or roofing

As you can see, both pressure washing and soft washing are excellent options for cleaning the exterior of your home. You should base your decision on planning ahead and choosing the right option for the surface you want to clean. If in doubt, your best bet is to consult with a pressure washing company in your area.

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What is the Best Way to Budget For a Home Remodel?

The best way to budget for a home remodel is to work within the parameters of your finances. You should have an idea in mind for the overhead costs that will be incurred for the kitchen, bathrooms, and living areas.

The kitchen is probably going to be where you spend the most money because this is the focal point of the entire house. You should ideally consider investing a significant amount of money into nice countertops (ideally granite or some other very hard surface), as well as a backsplash behind the counter space. You should also budget for appliances like a new stove, a new refrigerator, a dishwasher, and a warming oven (if desired). Also, expect to spend a decent amount of money on cabinets if you want the kitchen to look really nice. You should also have some type of lighting. If you decide to get an island for the kitchen, that will also need hard countertop material. This will not be cheap, but at the end of the day, all the countertops will give the kitchen an overall great appearance that looks nice and polished. Additionally, you will need something in your budget for tiles in the kitchen.

For the bathrooms, you need to budget for a new tub, double vanities in the master bathroom, single vanities for the other bathrooms, and new fixtures like a new toilet, new sinks, and showerheads. You might also need fixtures like faucets, handles for the sinks, towel bars, and lighting. You’re also going to need new bath towels, a bath curtain, grout for the tub, and tile for the bathrooms.

For the various living spaces, you are going to need carpeting, and various kinds of furniture like couches, tables, chairs, armchairs, lamps, and other lighting fixtures. Shop for furniture in advance to be sure you get the best price. Consider investing in blinds or drapes for windows. You might want to have newer windows installed depending on how old your current windows are so that they will be more energy-efficient. This will save you lots of money on heating bills. If you need to replace any room doors or the front door in your house, this will definitely cost extra, so plan for that as well if it applies. As a side note, for bedrooms, you will need closet organizers, beds, dressers, tables, lamps, and chairs.
Also, budget for landscaping outside.

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Busy millennials are hiring professional cleaners to help achieve a better work/life balance.

Millennials and Professional Cleaning Assistance

Work-life balance is a concept that has been getting a lot of attention in recent years. Companies are realizing that they need to make the wellness of their employee’s top priorities. Employees themselves are realizing that they need to focus on well-being, too. This concept is particularly big among the younger crowd. Individuals who are part of the Millennial generation have schedules that are more action-packed than ever before. They juggle lifestyles that revolve around career, social obligations, errands, pastimes, and beyond. It can often be tough for millennials these days to attain the balance that’s necessary for optimal well-being.

Dealing with household tasks can often zap millennials who have busy lives of a lot of energy. It can be hard for an exhausted person to get home from work late at night only to have to think about cleaning the living room. The mere thought sometimes makes people cringe, and understandably so. Smart millennials, however, have terrific solutions for that major dilemma. What is the solution? The solution is to hire professionals to take on all of their residential cleaning requests. It doesn’t matter if a young professional resides in a compact apartment in the city. It doesn’t matter if he or she lives in a sprawling detached home out in the suburbs, either. Recruiting professional cleaners can do a lot for his or her work-life balance. The assistance of professional cleaners can be ideal for millennials who want to be able to take it easy after they get home in the evenings. It can be ideal for millennials who have rather chaotic and demanding social lives on their plates. Professional cleaning assistance empowers millennials who want to put able to put their thoughts into subjects that have nothing to do with household tasks.

Upholstery cleaning is a big household chore. Cleaning furniture items can often be time-consuming. It can often be difficult to rid furniture pieces of stains and persistently awful smells. That’s the reason that millennials frequently hire trained and seasoned professionals to take on all of their upholstery cleaning requirements. Regular cleaning sessions can help millennials keep their furniture items in tiptop condition for much longer, too.

Carpet cleaning is yet another big focal point for many millennials in this day and age. It can be a headache to have to keep up with carpet maintenance requirements. The carpet can feel cozy and pleasant against the feet. It can also be a haven for the collection of dirt, dust, debris, and allergens in general. Millennials who want to be able to clean their carpeting at home thoroughly frequently make the smart choice to hire professional carpet cleaners. In-depth carpet shampooing sessions can help millennials attain fresh and flawless living spaces.

Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Home Comfortable this Summer

It’s common to experience a bit of discomfort in your home during the summer months as the temperatures rise outside. This can make it difficult to feel at ease and also affects the quality of your space if you start to sweat. Fortunately, there are a few maintenance tips to follow to keep your home cool and comfortable this summer.

person in a chair sitting in front of an open refrigerator

Make Use of Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are extremely useful when it comes to keeping each room in the house cool and don’t use a lot of energy, which will keep your electricity costs low during the warmer months. Change their direction and make them operate counterclockwise to ensure warm air circulates downward and warm air goes upward.

Use Your Curtains
Make use of your curtains to ensure you block any heat from transferring into the building through the windows. Use thick color-blocking curtains that add insulation to the building and keep the cool air inside the home. This will prevent your air conditioner from working harder than necessary to operate.

Close the curtains during the warmest parts of the day, and open them back up in the evening when the outdoor temperatures are cooler. You can also consider adding a UV-blocking film to the windows of your home, which will prevent natural light from filtering into your home and increasing the temperature.

Replace the AC Filters
Many people forget to replace their AC filters every two to three months, which can affect how hard the appliance works to operate. Replacing the AC filters can make it easier to maintain a low temperature in the building and can reduce the risk of excess wear and tear on the parts.

It’s also important to examine your thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly and the temperature is accurate. Wait until the evening to operate your dishwasher or washing machine, which can cause heat to be released into the interior setting.

Perform an Inspection
Hire a professional AC repair company to perform an inspection on the outside unit to determine if any issues are present and if everything is working correctly. A technician can diagnose any issues that are present and also identify if repairs are needed to ensure the appliance continues to operate well on warm days without the risk of it breaking down. The professional will also remove any leaves or twigs that are inside of the unit, which can affect its operation and lead to damage.

Following the right maintenance tips can allow you to maintain a specific temperature in your home when the summer season arrives. This can allow you to escape heat waves and relax indoors to ensure you enjoy the season more.

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8 Common Culprits of Household Odors

The sense of smell is one of our strongest sensations. That is why people tend to notice any unwanted odors in a house. Avoid potential embarrassment by removing any bad odors that may be in your home. To do this, you may want to consider common causes of bad odor.

1 Trash
Although everyone knows that trash can have a stench. People often undermine the importance of the need for consistent trash removal. Letting the trash sit in your home for days ends with radiation of bad odor from the trash throughout the house. Certainly, you can spray scents to cover the smell, but that is an unnecessary process. Save yourself the hassle of needing to purchase costly house fragrances by simply removing trash from your home.

2 Shoes
Shoes can bring a bad odor into your home; so, allow the odor to dissipate by letting your shoes air outside after strenuous exercise.

3 Unwashed Dishes
When dishes sit they collect odor. That is why it is important to have a consistent cleaning schedule to remove any potential stench from unwashed dishes.

4 Pet Urine and Feces
Even though we love our fuzzy friends we must admit they can be the culprit of pretty bad odors in the home. Regularly cleaning litter boxes helps. However, more detailed methods of odor removal may be necessary if there are years of collected bad odor.

5 Diapers
Again some culprits of bad odor are obvious. Regularly removing diapers from the home and placing them in a separate sealed bag from other trash items helps decrease bad odor.

6 Tobacco
The smell of tobacco is a common complaint. Stores sell scent neutralizers to aid in suppressing the smell of tobacco. Smoking outside will also help decrease the bad odor from tobacco.

7 Expired Foods
Expired food is perhaps the worst scent you can smell. Yuck! Be mindful of expiration dates because you do not want to be left with the scent of old, rotten food. This is especially the case with old eggs and milk.

One will find that maintaining a fresh, clean smell in your home can easily be accomplished. For individuals needing to remove more intrusive odors seeking outside professional cleaning services is an option worth utilizing to remove any bad odors.

8 Carpets
Carpeting adds warmth and comfort to your home. However, carpets can retain dirt, allergens, and mold causing odors to linger in your house. It is important that you not only vacuum regularly but also regularly schedule a professional carpet cleaning.

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Top 6 Tips For Keeping Your Home Clean and Allergen Free

Six Home Cleanliness Suggestions

Effective Clean Home Strategies to Consider

It can be a joy to reside in a home that’s immaculately clean. It can be excellent for health and wellness purposes as well. If you want to live in a residential property that’s fresh, welcoming and devoid of an abundance of allergens, then these six cleaning suggestions can go a long way for you and for the rest of the members of your household.

1. Eliminate Clutter
If you want to live in a home that isn’t a haven for dust accumulation, you should do away with any existing clutter. You can throw things away that are broken and useless. You can donate things that other people may benefit from as well. Self-storage facilities can sometimes even help.

2. Rely on Covers
Dust mites aren’t exactly enticing. If you want to maintain a home that defines cleanliness, then it can help to invest in covers for all of your box springs, mattresses and pillows. Search for covers that aren’t vulnerable to the presence of dust mites.

 

3. Purchase Curtains That You Can Wash Frequently
It can be icky to live in a home that has curtains that never are clean. If you want to be able to maintain curtains that are sanitary, then you should opt for ones that are part of the “washable” category. Opt for curtains that consist of a synthetic fabric. Standard and unadulterated cotton curtains can be optimal for cleanliness purposes as well.

4. Engage in Regular Vacuuming Sessions
Allergens are constantly floating around in the air. If you want to protect your living space from irritating allergens, then routine vacuuming sessions can go a long way. You should strive to vacuum every single nook and cranny inside of your home on a weekly basis. If you want optimal results, you should even consider doing so two times per week. Allergens can accumulate pretty rapidly. The same thing applies to dust and debris overall. 

Even with regular vacuuming, some germs and allergens accumulate in carpeting. Hire a carpet cleaning service regularly to remove what the vacuum cleaner can’t.

5. Don’t Leave Food Out Unattended
You can maintain a fresh and enticing home by paying close attention to any and all food items. Make a point to never leave food out unattended. If you have pets, you may want to remove their meals after they finish eating them. Lingering food items can draw in pests of all kinds. If you don’t want to have to deal with a pest dilemma, you need to manage all food sources well.

6. Shut Doors and Windows Any Time You Can
It can be a headache to live in a home that’s a sanctuary for pollen. If you want to stop the substance from invading your space, you should shut your doors and windows anytime you can.

How Does Carpet Cleaning Improve Indoor Air Quality?

If you are wondering how carpet cleaning can improve air quality, it does so by taking out the microbes and dust that are trapped within the fibers.

You already know that carpets are a peculiar fixture within the house. Not only do they decorate the house, they also trap dust and dirt. This initially cleans the air, however, the dust and microbes accumulate to the point that they fly when you step on the carpet.

There are many carpet cleaners out there and if you don’t know of any, you should know that finding one is as simple as going to Google and typing carpet cleaners plus the name of your area.

You might be asking yourself why you should hire a carpet cleaner when you can clean your carpet yourself, however, the truth is that it takes a special type of vacuum and liquid to clean a carpet and improve the indoor air quality properly.

Carpet cleaning can improve the air quality by cleaning the trapped items in your carpet. To thoroughly clean your air, you need to regularly clean your carpet. How often? Well, that depends on several things, like the foot traffic in your home and your house’s distance from the road.

As we said before, there are many carpet cleaners in practically all major areas in the United States. And it’s important to note that not all of them are created alike. While some are honest professionals, some won’t hesitate to rip you off of your money.

To avoid getting scammed, it’s very important that you only hire people who are part of some carpet cleaner’s trade association.

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5 Reasons Why you Should Have Your Windows Professionally Cleaned

Everyone wants the exterior of their home or business to look nice. That’s a given. Now the problem is “How can I make my home or business look good without breaking the bank?” The answer to that question is by having your windows professionally cleaned. Clean windows shows that you care about the appearance of your building, which, when running a business, could give you an edge over your competitors. Let’s look at 5 reasons why you should have your windows professionally cleaned.

Appearance
First and foremost, having clean windows gives your home or business a nice appearance. Having a nice appearance makes your home or business look welcoming to visitors. Compared to cost of repainting your building or making other parts of the exterior look nice, getting professionally cleaned windows seems like a bargain.

Window Longevity
Professional window cleaners know how to make windows last. It’s their job! They can more easily identify and prevent buildup of environmental contaminants like acid rain residue. How easily can you identify acid rain residue? Probably not as well as someone who cleans windows for a living! The cost savings associated with increased window longevity make getting your windows professionally cleaned seem like a no-brainer.

Comfort
Comfort is a wide category in the world of windows, but we’ll define it as relaxation from needing to complete another task. This essentially means a job well done. Cleaning windows on your own is tough, especially when they’re in high places. You may not do as good of a job as a professional and you could leave smudge marks or streaks. By outsourcing this labor, you can rest and relax while certified window professionals make sure your windows are spotless.

Tricky Windows
Have you ever had to clean a window that was hard to reach? Ever been afraid of falling off a ladder? With a professional window cleaner you do not need to worry anymore. Window professionals know how to clean windows in hard-to-reach places.

Pest-related Window Pain
Similar to tricky windows, have you ever tried to clean a window and there is a beehive right next to it? If you have, it probably wasn’t a fun time. Professional window cleaners have experience with pest-related window issues and know how to deal with them. This saved headache is well worth the expense of a window cleaner.

There you have it! 5 reasons why you should have your windows professionally cleaned. Clean windows are a sign of a thriving business and a spectacular home. A professional window cleaner can save you from many window-related problems, all at a low cost to you.

ATR102523

How To Keep Your Home Free Of Pet Odors All Year Long

Eliminaationg Pet Ordors

Pug - Pet Odor Cleaning

I don’t know about you, but when I walk into a home that shares space with a pet or pets, I’m always on guard for dreaded pet odors. The odor is distinct and not easy to get rid of. To help solve the “pet odor” problem, here are some tips to follow.

1. Buy cleaners that are enzymatic, because the enzymes are great for eliminating and neutralizing the smell that accompanies pet waste. Let’s face it, accidents do happen! Just make sure if the “accident” occurs on a rug or hardwood floor, the cleaner doesn’t contain components that might damage the area. Bleach diluted in a pail of water also does wonders to neutralize and disinfect.

2. Any pet odors begin at the source, which clearly is the pet. Whether a cat or dog, it’s important to wipe the animal down often with baby wipes and shampoo regularly with a shampoo made for pets.

Special Tip: “Use old towels or dishcloths to wipe the pet dry.”

3. Get cleaning products designed for pets like spot scrubbers, vacuums, and hair removal brushes. Spend a few minutes each day cleaning areas that the pet frequently visits for food, play or rest. This routine will deter smells from permanently setting in and eliminate unwanted pet hair. Keep in mind, the longer a mess stays, the harder it is to eliminate that foul-smelling odor.

Take it from me, these simple tips, with keep your pet and your home smelling fresh as a daisy!

ATR061023

Closed Cell Foam Tips and Budget Suggestions

Closed Cell Foam Tips and Budget Suggestions
Going behind the scenes on this spray foamed house with some tips and tricks for using closed cell spray foam to the maximum!

http://accellapolyurethane.com
https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild
https://www.mattrisinger.com

Home Improvement Tips – Find Local Professionals | SmartGuy.com

Home Improvement Tips – Find Local Professionals | SmartGuy.com
Home Improvement tips? Find Home Improvement Professionals in your area FOR FREE at www.SmartGuy.com. Choose from up to 1,500 categories of local business professionals in over 5,500 cities worldwide offering specials and discounts of up to 50% off! Contractors, Real estate agents, Accountants, Restaurants, plumbers, electricians, painters, insurance agents, Pet sitters, Autos, etc.

SmartGuy.com is one of the largest exclusive business directory and networks in the world!

Home Improvement Tip: Paint

Home Improvement Tip: Paint
What home improvements should you make if you’re getting ready to sell your house? If you’re considering putting your house on the market, I’ve got some tips for you. In this video I talk about the low cost and high impact of painting your home.

2018 Building an Addition | Adding a Room Tips | Major Home Improvement Project FLoor Plan

2018 Building an Addition | Adding a Room Tips | Major Home Improvement Project FLoor Plan
2018 – Interested in Renovations in your home. This video was filmed on location in New Jersey. Pangione Developers Inc owner – David Pangione hosts this Major Home Remodel.
See this tiny cape cod home completely expanded on all levels. This home addition consisted of the entire home being gutted to the studs. From there the house was expanded with a new 12′ rear addition. The rear house addition is a full 2 levels.
The old roof was removed and an entire new 2nd floor was added on.
The existing garage roof was removed as well and the 2nd floor was also expanded above the garage.

Interior remodeling: Inside of the house, the entire interior was gutted. From the basement upwards. We removed the old basement interior. The existing staircase was also removed and relocated to just in front of the new front door.

Take a look at the specialty mouldings throughout. The mouldings really make this house that much better.

On the new 2nd floor, we added 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms as well as a laundry. In Bergen County NJ, second floor laundries are very popular especially in our new home remodeling projects.
The master suite is very spacious. we included a 10′ cathedral ceiling. To enter the master bath suite, simply slide open the pocket door and the bathroom opens up into a very nice layout including his and her bathroom sinks, a custom shower and an amazing self standing soak tub. There is a private toilet as well. The master closet is all customized with shelving.

Take a look at this Major Home Remodeling Project located in Bergen County New Jersey.

http://www.BergenCountyContractors.info

30 Quick and Easy Home Organization Tips To Clear The Chaos

30 Quick and Easy Home Organization Tips To Clear The Chaos
30 Quick and Easy Home Organization Tips To Clear The Chaos
http://bit.ly/2GhOSJA

1. Hang Up Your Aprons and Pot Holders
http://acultivatednest.com/2014/11/kitchen-shelf-with-hooks-provides-storage/

2. Give Lids Their Own Space
https://theorganisedhousewife.com.au/organising/5-steps-to-an-organised-kitchen-cupboard/

3. Store Kitchenware According To Use
http://www.marthastewart.com/274221/marthas-50-top-kitchen-tips

4. Use Small containers for The Junk drawers
http://centsationalgirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/second-tier-junk-drawer.jpg

5. Store Utensils Stylishly At An Arm’s Reach
etsy.com

6. Utilize Whiteboards in kitchen
http://yesiwantcake.com/2014/05/13/tailor-made-whiteboards/

7. Tape Magnets On Your Wrap Dispensers

8. Turn Your Cake Pan or Lazy Susan Into A Spice Rack
https://www.homedit.com/ikea-spice-racks/

9. Put It Above the Range
http://www.tidbits-cami.com/2013/06/home-tour.html

10. Choose A Storage island for kitchen
http://www.bhg.com/kitchen/island/small-space-kitchen-island-ideas/#page=4

11. Make Sure Your Side Table Has Drawers

12. Display Your Jewelry Piles
http://www.diys.com/canvas-jewelry-display/

13. Dress the windows with large curtains

14. Don’t Be Afraid To Choose A Bed With Under Storage

15. Revamp Corner Clutter Into Decor

16. Always Make Your Bed

17. Utilize Trunks for bedroom storage

18. Go With Tall Furniture Pieces
http://www.thegoldensycamore.com/2015/04/painted-bedroom-dresser.html

19. Transform Your Closet Door Into Storage Space

Spring Infinity Scarves Only $5.95 Shipped

20. Place Baskets In Bare Corners
http://thecrazycraftlady.com/2015/05/master-bedroom-reveal-one-room-challenge-week-6/

21. Keep cords organized with paper toilet tubes

Organize Your Cords

22. Create A Play Area For The Kids

Living Room Toy Storage Ideas

23. Utilize Shelves Where You Can

24. Crate magazine storage
http://blog.homedepot.com/kids-room-organization-ideas/

25. Coffee table tray for tv Remote and magazine

Why You Should Use Trays In Your Home Decor

26. Reclaimed wood shelves in living room

27. Get A Remote Control Keeper

28. Living room Remove Visual Clutter

29. Think About Choosing Double-Duty Furniture Pieces

30. Pallet-Shelves for books

How to Make a Pallet Shelf {diy shelf}

 

Top 10 Tips for Home Improvement

Top 10 Tips for Home Improvement
top 10 tips for home improvement. Here are ten pieces of advice to help turn your dwelling place into a better home. the fastest way to increase your home’s value is by making a plan.

source :
https://lifehacker.com/top-10-home-improvement-tips-every-homeowner-should-kno-1656251243

music :

Santo Rico by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org/

Cheap & Easy Home Improvement Tip – hire a professional carpet cleaning service

Cheap & Easy Home Improvement Tip – hire a professional carpet cleaning service
Hiring a professional carpet cleaning service is a great way to give your home a new vibrancy at a low cost. One incremental improvement done once a month (or every other month) will make a big difference to your home in a year.

I hope you find this video to be informative. If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in Los Angeles County, call today for an over the phone consultation. Please feel free to reach out for questions about the housing market, housing prices, homes for sale. I’d be happy to help in any way I can

Steven Galindo
Realtor (Real Estate Agent) @ John Aaroe Group
http://www.Aaroe.com/StevenGalindo
323-717-2262
http://www.StevenGalindo.com
steven@StevenGalindo.com
BRE: 01002784

I sell homes (condo’s, townhomes, single family residences) (Real Estate) in Los Angeles (which includes the neighborhoods of: Mt Washington, Glassell Park, Cypress Park, Lincoln Heights, Highland Park, Eagle Rock Monterey Hills, Hermon, Montecito Heights, Garvanza, Arroyo View Estates, DTLA Downtown Los Angeles), San Gabriel Valley, South Pasadena, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Pasadena (Linda Vista, Bungalow Heaven, San Rafael, Chapman Woods, Hastings Ranch, Historic Highlands, Garfield Heights, Madison Heights, Eaton Canyon, Daisy Villa, Annandale, Banbury Oaks, Casa Grande, Catalina Villas, Old Town Pasadena, East Washington Village, Jefferson Park, Lincoln Villa, Lower Arroyo, Muir Heights, North Lake, South Lake, Oak Knoll, Orange Heights, Playhouse District, Prospect Park, Victory Park, Washington Square, Brigden Ranch)

if you found this video to be interesting please like it “thumbs up” and subscribe to my youtube channel for fun things to do and real estate advice

If you are curious about your home’s value, get 3 estimates – Instantly at http://www.FreeAndEasyHomeValues.com

Home Improvement – Tips To Make Your Home Look Elegant & Stylish | BoldSky

Home Improvement – Tips To Make Your Home Look Elegant & Stylish | BoldSky
Knowing the different style and interior options would make it easier to design and build new structures for that extra appeal. Take a look at these 7 design ideas that will help you make your home a perfect retreat and also add a “wow” factor to it. LIGHTING – A correct blend of natural and artificial lighting plays an important role. Good lighting can be a mood enhancer as well as welcoming. Size of the windows and appropriate window dressings can control the amount of light that seeps in. STORAGE – storage is a real necessity to dump your extra belongings when not needed. Try to artfully use up those little nooks and corners. A tidy and organized space will certainly give visually calm and serene vibes.
————————————————————————————————————–

Subscribe to Boldsky Channel for latest updates.

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Kitchen Work Zones Explained — Kitchen Design Tips from Sears Home Improvement

Kitchen Work Zones Explained — Kitchen Design Tips from Sears Home Improvement
SUBSCRIBE ➜ http://bit.ly/2bzTKsH
MORE KITCHEN DESIGN IDEAS ➜ http://bit.ly/2ETO68h

Discover how to create kitchen work zones. Watch this video for design ideas to eliminate the kitchen work triangle and upgrade to a modern kitchen design.

Ditch the triangle of fridge, stove and sink! Kitchen design is now about creating modern work zones. This video will define work zones and offer ideas for creating zones in your kitchen, including a cooking zone, cleaning zone and prep zone.

Kitchen Work Zones EXPLAINED!

What’s a work zone? A designated space to perform certain tasks.

1. Cooking Zone
-Oven
-Stove
-Utensils
-Cutting board
-Outlets for small appliances

2. Cleaning Zone
-Sink
-Cleaning supplies
-Pull-out cabinet for garbage

3. Prep Zone
-Island
-Counter space
-Light

Time to get in the zone(s)!

Get started on a kitchen remodel today with help from our experts. ➜ http://bit.ly/2FAW9UF

FOLLOW SEARS HOME SERVICES
FACEBOOK ➜ Sears Home Services http://on.fb.me/1Q5aDNQ
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How to Clean a Dishwasher | Dishwasher Cleaning Tips

How to Clean a Dishwasher | Dishwasher Cleaning Tips
Keep your dishwasher in top shape and odor-free with these dishwasher cleaning tips. For more helpful tips and tricks, check out our How to Clean a Dishwasher Guide: https://thd.co/2BSqaN4

Periodic cleaning is important to keep your dishwasher running smoothly. Over time, stuck on food can build up on the dishwasher interior and loose food can clog the filters. Using simple household items like vinegar and a sponge, you can clean your dishwasher in a few easy steps to help it maintain top performance. If you have a stainless steel dishwasher, you’ll want to clean the surface with a product specially formulated for this purpose for the best results.

To purchase the cleaning products featured in this video, check out The Home Depot website: https://thd.co/2zM5KTK

Get more helpful home improvement tips, ideas, and projects. Subscribe to our YouTube channel: http://thd.co/2iib0HE or watch now: http://www.youtube.com/HomeDepot

DIY Painting Smooth Stucco With An Airless Sprayer. HOUSE PAINTING TIPS

DIY Painting Smooth Stucco With An Airless Sprayer. HOUSE PAINTING TIPS
How to paint stucco. How to paint smooth stucco on the exterior of a house using an airless sprayer. Tips painting stucco. Techniques, and spray patterns to make the stucco look natural and not like it was poorly painted. How to use the sprayer to make your stucco look like new again.

Who am I playlist: http://tinyurl.com/idaho-painter Strictly for your entertainment.

You can purchase the sprayer right here for less:

Graco 695 airless paint sprayer: http://amzn.to/2gtzvDd
Pump saver: http://amzn.to/2gP2bED
Graco manifold filter: http://amzn.to/2gTqakY
30” Spray Gun Extension: http://amzn.to/2e3N4tq
6” Spray Gun Extension: http://amzn.to/2dTuJer
Graco 2 Finger Airless Gun: http://amzn.to/2dVu5Bj
Graco RAC X 517 tip: http://amzn.to/2dKnB4D
Graco RAC X Fine Finish Tip: http://amzn.to/2e0UQ3l
Titan 440 Impact Sprayer: http://amzn.to/2dVuTX0
Kraft Cardboard Shield Holder: http://amzn.to/2dUUw4R

Think you cannot paint? You can!

I created The Idaho Painter an alternative to to big box DIY video shows that have actors who only act like they can paint but really can barely act. My mission is to shatter the barriers of entry into painting and convince people that it can be a lot of fun painting and painting fun little projects on your own without an expensive professional painter. No experience is necessary.

I need your help to keep The Idaho Painter free videos running smoothly and not be so dependent upon, well me painting. If you have been inspired by even one of my videos, please consider a donation. Plus, check out the really cool tool store and gift shop I have on my website. www.theidahopainter.com

We need your help and reviews. Click the links below to follow and review us.

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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of The Idaho Painter (or Chris Berry), I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. The Idaho Painter assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. The Idaho Painter recommends safe practices when working on any structure and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of The Idaho Painter, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from use or improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not The Idaho Painter.