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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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.

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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!

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5 Habits to have in order to keep your kitchen clean

We all have a kitchen and it is incredibly hard to keep clean, especially if you have a family. From the never-ending stack of dishes sitting in the sink to the grime hiding in your fridge, it can easily be said that keeping your kitchen clean is a challenge. There’s no reason to give up on the room entirely; with a few simple tips your kitchen will not only become cleaner but stay cleaner longer.

1. Never Leave Dishes in the Sink Overnight
It is so tempting after a long day of work to abandon the dishes from the day in the sink. Those dishes will be sitting there all night attracting bugs and getting crusty. Take that extra five minutes to either load the dishwasher, hand wash the dishes, or, give them a rinse so no food is present.

 

2. Sweep the Floor Daily
Most kitchen floors have a lot of foot traffic due to family members coming and going to the fridge. This results in more dirt and dust on the floor along with any food that may have fallen during food preparation. Make sure to sweep the floor at least once a day. It only takes a minute to do and will save you effort down the road.

3. Before Every Grocery Trip Clean Out the Fridge
Everyone goes grocery shopping at different intervals such as weekly, biweekly, and monthly. While making your grocery list do two simple things to maximize your productivity and get some cleaning done. First, throw away any old or expire food. Second, wipe down the shelves. This will help you keep the fridge clean and make more room for groceries.

4. Scrub the Counters
Once a week really clean your counters good with soap and water. Move large items and wipe under them. Doing this on a regular basis prevents nasty buildup in rarely seen areas.

5. Mop That Floor
Break out the mop, or the Swiffer Wetjet, and give the floor a good scrub. You may not see the dirt with the naked eye but it is there; your mopwater will prove it. This should be done weekly.

These 5 easy habits will ensure a cleaner kitchen. When you suddenly have guests it is ok because you know your kitchen is presentable. Cleaning a little at a time it makes the job much easier and allows for a more thorough clean.  Tile Cleaning Fresno Site.

5 Tips for Cleaning Natural Stone

Natural Stone Cleaning Tips
Natural stone can be hard to clean. Whether it’s on your floor, countertop, or another place in your home, maintaining natural stone can be a difficult task. It’s a super-sensitive material and can be damaged when not cleaned properly. In order to maintain the natural beauty of the stone elements in your home, be sure to follow these helpful tips.

1. Stay clear of acidic cleaning agents. Things such as lemons, vinegar, and other acidic cleaning products associated with cleaning, can cause damage to your natural stone. Make sure to stay away from these products to ensure that damage is not caused.

2. Clean up stains and spills immediately. Natural stone can be damaged by spills, so make sure that when something is spilled, clean-up is immediate. When certain things, like soda or ketchup, spill onto the stone, the ingredients in the spill can cause permanent damage to your stone. Even water can damage your stone if it sits for too long or if the stone was not sealed and treated correctly.

3. Use PH-neutral soap. PH neutral soap, especially when cleaning soap, is very gentle and will not cause damage, as more abrasive cleaning products can. PH balanced soap is often used when washing dishes in a dishwasher, chances are you already have some!

4. Use cleaners specifically made for natural stone. If you are more interested in a store-bought cleaner for your stone, make sure that you are careful in your choices. If you are afraid of ruining your natural stone, be sure to only use cleaners for the specific type of stone you are cleaning. So check the instructions and make sure that it’s safe for your cleaning needs. This is the best way to ensure that your stone will not be damaged during the cleaning process.

5. Warm water and small amounts of ammonia. When used in small amounts, ammonia is a very effective cleaner for all types of stone including, marble, granite, and slate. Bleach can also be used in small amounts if you want, but don’t use a lot or mix it with ammonia. This is an easy and effective way to clean your stone if you don’t mind the smell.

Natural stone is a beautiful component of any home, but maintaining its beauty can be difficult. Always make sure that any store-bought cleaner you use is safe for your stone, or just use these other helpful tips to clean your stone.

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10 Ways to Deep Clean your House

Every once in a while your home needs a really great deep cleaning.

Here are the top 10 ways to deep clean your home, from top to bottom.

1.) Always start with picking up everything and putting it into its place. It’s amazing how much cleaner it will feel once you start putting things away.

2.) Then move onto the dusting. Don’t just use a feather duster or those dusters that promise to pick up dust like a magnet. You need to use a rag and furniture polish. Be sure to move anything that is on the tables, nightstands, or consoles. Make sure you dust under everything. Once you put the items back where they belong, be sure to clean those as well. Nothing will ruin a deep cleaning like putting dirty items back onto a freshly cleaned surface.

3.) Clean all the windows inside and out. Be sure to use a good window cleaner! Cheaper brand cleaners tend to leave streaks and only leave you feeling frustrated. Be sure to open the windows and clean in between the screen and the glass. This part of the window get very dirty very fast. While you have the glass cleaner out, don’t forget about the mirrors.

4.) If you have window blinds, clean them! If they are fabric this can be hard, but if you have wood or vinyl be sure to use a damp rag to wipe down each piece.

5.) Clean or dust the places that you always forget about. Clean the edges of mirrors and picture frames. Dust off the tops of the fans, these are places that we often overlook when cleaning.

6.) Once you have completed dusting, then it’s time to vacuum. Be sure to vacuum everywhere, move furniture, area rugs or anything else that may be covering the ground.

7.) Deep clean the floors! If you have hardwood then use a good wood cleaner and mop the floors. The same goes for tile, make sure you are using the best products for the material. If you have carpets then I suggest steam cleaning them. It is very easy these days to simply steam clean floors and be able to walk on them in less than 1 hour later. This is a great way to really deep clean your floors.

8.) Focus on the bathrooms. I think this goes without saying but the bathroom is on the of the dirtiest rooms in the house. Be sure to scrub the toilets, use bacteria killing products and bleach to really deep clean. Don’t forget about the shower, this is the place where all the mildew will form. Invest in a great mildew removing agent, many times it’s easy enough to just spray on and leave. If possible buy a new shower liner, these are relatively cheap and easy to replace.

9.) Don’t forget about the kitchen. It seems that you are always cleaning the kitchen, but we often overlook this space for deep cleaning. Microwaves, ovens, and fridges are the places that most often are in need for a deep cleaning. I would recommend removing anything that can be removed such as fridge shelves and cleaning them separately. For the microwave and oven use the special grease fighting products that will remove the stuck on stains.

10.) Use the washing machine! Always wash all of the bedding, sheets, pillow covers, even pillows. Nothing feels better than sleeping in a clean bed. If possible wash rugs and pillow covers. Always be sure to read the care instructions before washing so you do not ruin the quality.

11.) Using the correct products can make your job that much easier. Be sure to read and research the product before you buy them. It is worth it to spend the money on a product that will help make your home shine.

Keeping Carpets Clean and Your Home Healthy

If you notice an unpleasant smell in your home as soon as you enter, the odors may be coming from your carpet. Depending on what you have spilled on your carpet, the carpet fibers may be discolored, smell terrible, and even be unhealthy. To make your carpet as healthy and clean as possible, there are a couple of cleaning methods you should use.

Vacuuming
Vacuuming regularly is the most basic step in the maintenance of the carpet. You will likely need to go over the carpet several times over to thoroughly vacuum it. The way that debris can work its way into the carpet will require several passes at different angles to correct. Make sure to vacuum two or more times a week.

Removing Odors
The majority of products that are sold to stop odors are simply baking soda with an added scent. Products that don’t use baking soda often simply mask smells. To save money, simply purchase baking soda and sprinkle it over your carpet. Allow it to sit for a day and then vacuum it up.

Spills And Stains
Any spills on a carpet need to be removed as quickly as possible. Otherwise, the spill will soak into the carpet and will then be much more difficult to remove. If the stain has soaked into the carpet for too long, use a carpet stain remover. However, make sure to test the stain remover on an area of the carpet that is not noticeable first to make sure that the carpet does not become permanently discolored by the cleaning product. Poop, pee, and vomit are best cleaned with products that use enzymes.

If you have a stain that is very difficult to remove, you can mix dish detergent and water and apply it to the site of the stain. However, it can be very difficult to remove soap from the carpet. A less troublesome approach is to use club soda.

Steam Cleaning
To make sure your carpet is thoroughly clean, steam clean it once every six months. You could hire a professional to steam clean or purchase your hot water extractor. These products release warm water mixed with cleaning chemicals that lift dirt and stains from carpets and kill many germs. Then, the vacuum sucks up the filthy water.

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Keep Your Carpets Clean With These Five Basic Items

If you have carpet on your floor, you know how difficult it can be to keep clean, especially if you have children or pets. However, with a few basic supplies, keeping it clean can be a little easier. Keep reading below to discover the 3 basic cleaning products every home should have.

Carpet Cleaning Orange County Tips

Number One: Baking Soda
Baking soda is well known for its ability to remove odors, and is commonly used in refrigerators for that very purpose. Less commonly known is its ability to remove odors from the carpeting in your home and your car. Just sprinkle it generously on the area you need to deodorize, let it sit for 15 minutes or so, then vacuum or sweep your carpet until all the powder is removed. The baking soda should have absorbed most of the odor, but if not, simply repeat until you are satisfied with the outcome.

Number Two: White Vinegar
White vinegar is another little-known cleaning agent that works well at removing odors and stains, especially pet stains. Simply treat the area with a solution of 50% vinegar and 50% water. To be safe, test the solution on a section of your carpet that is out of site to make sure  your carpeting won’t be damaged.  If it is safe, use the solution as needed.

If you have a carpet cleaning shampoo machine, vinegar makes an excellent, environmentally safe alternative to the cleaning solutions that are usually recommended. Bonus tip: Use it in your mop water too!

Number Three: Laundry Detergent
You probably already have laundry detergent for your clothes, but you likely never thought of using it on your carpet. Since it is made specifically for the purpose of removing stains and odors, it will also work wonders on your carpet. Use it as a spot cleaner or use it in a carpet cleaning machine.

To give this solution a little oomph, add some liquid fabric softener and a scoop of Oxiclean. This will give your cleaning solution the power to tackle the toughest stains and odors.

Keeping your rug or carpeting clean is a necessary evil, but it can be done. Keep these five basic supplies handy and you’ll never have to settle for dirty carpeting again.

Simple Recipe For Removing Pet Urine Stains And Odors

If your cat or dog has ever had an accident, you know how big a pain it is to remove the stain or odor after. But before calling in the professionals, give the recipe below a try. It’s simple to make, it’s affordable, and best of all…..it works!

The ingredients you’ll need are white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, dish washing liquid, and lemon juice. There’s a good chance you already have all of these, but if not, they aren’t very expensive. Altogether, they should cost under $5.00. The lemon juice is optional, so if you have everything else, no biggie.

Step One: If it’s a recent accident, clean it up. For urine, gently dab up as much as possible. Try not to use too much force because they will push it further into the carpet. If it is an old stain and has already dried, move on to step two

Step Two: You’ll want to soak the area with a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar. Use plenty of solution to make sure the stained area is soaked thoroughly.

Important: Don’t use regular vinegar because it can stain.

Let this solution dry. Air drying is fine, or you can use a fan.

Step Three: Once the area has dried, sprinkle the area generously with baking soda. Don’t be stingy. Then you’ll want to make a solution of a quarter cup of hydrogen peroxide with a teaspoon or two of dish washing liquid mixed in. Dawn is my preference, but any will do.  Optional: Add a teaspoon or two of lemon juice.

Once your solution is mixed, sprinkle it over the baking soda you put down earlier. Brush this solution in with a brush or your hands if you’re wearing gloves. Then allow it to dry.

Step Four: Vacuum the area. That’s it. It may take several treatments, so be prepared to re-treat the area if it isn’t completely cleaned the first time around. If the problem is still there after several treatments, it may be time to call in the big guns and hire a professional cleaner.

Carpet Types

The Best Carpet Types
One of the things that you will notice about your options in carpeting is that there are so many that you can choose from. Not only are there a wide range of materials and colors but you can also have your choice in textures. For wall to wall carpeting, you may need to have something that is going to be able to stand up to high amounts of traffic. When you buy carpeting for your hallway for example, you need to be sure that you pick a durable fiber blend that is going to last. Keep carpets up to par by having them cleaned:

Berber is a popular and great choice when you want to get great carpeting for either a bedroom or a child’s playroom. It is soft and durable and even easy to clean. If you have pets, however, you may want to pick out a carpet type that is going to have a tight pile so that you do not have to worry about animal claws getting stuck or your pets pulling up the fibers.

Basically, the best carpet is whatever you want to see in your home that fits within your budget and is comfortable as well as enjoyable for your whole family.

Kool Aid Stains

The Best Way To Remove Kool-Aid From Carpeting
Kool-aid is a favorite drink of children around the world, but it can be difficult to clean if it gets on your carpeting. A red Kool-aid stain will show up on most carpet colors, making your room look dirty and unkept.

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While this liquid is not easy to remove, there are some steps you can take to get kool-aid out of your carpet for good. (Facebook – Carpet Cleaning Wake Forest)

Table salt is a wonderful substance to use if you’re trying to remove kool-aid from your carpets. First, blot the stain to get out as much of the color from your carpet as possible. Next, add a couple of tablespoons of table salt to the top of the stain and let it sit. After the salt sits for about 20 minutes, vacuum it up and use some water to blot the stain again. If the stain is not gone, apply salt again and repeat the process. This will work for many kool-aid stains, but it may not get out stains that have been sitting for some time or are deep within the fibers of the carpet.

For the most difficult stains, contact a professional carpet cleaner. A true professional will use special cleansers and equipment to get the stains out fast and keep them from reappearing once the carpet is dry. Make sure to search out a reputable carpet cleaner, and ask for references from family and friends.

Kool-aid is a much loved drink that brings back childhood memories, but it is a good idea to keep it away from carpeting. If you do get it on the carpet, remember that table salt can help. If all else fails, call your trusted professional to help you get the stain out and keep your carpet looking great for years to come. (Carpet Cleaning Wake Forest Blog)

Floor Polishing Secrets

A lot of people don’t pay the necessary attention to the floor in their home, and they end up giving a bad impression to friends and family. The same thing happens with business owners who really don’t care about the impression they can give to potential costumers by showing a clean, polished floor.

Having a well polished floor is one of the best ways to give a first great impression to people about your place. Remember that a shining surface is a great way to make your place come alive!

Wooden floors and tiles look fantastic when they are just installed. Unfortunately, looks fade with time, and you end up with a dirty, blurry floor in no time. Floor polishing brings the shine back to your floor making your place look clean and fantastic!

You may think there’s not a lot of dust on your floor, but you’d be surprised! Floor polishing help you decrease dramatically this dust, and get rid of possible allergies in the process. However, make sure to ask us for a floor polish type that can also help you to clean your floors, not just polish them.

Floor polishing takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but when you see the final result, it really pays off when you feel your place come alive again. Always make sure to ask which is the the best type of polish for your floor.    http://tampacarpetcare.net/