Central Air Conditioner: 4 Signs You Should Know if it Needs Repair or Replacement

If you're like most AC users, you probably don't give your central air conditioner much thought until it's too late to save it. And by then, it's likely too warm and humid to accomplish much inside your house or business. 

Ignoring the defects with your air conditioning unit, on the other hand, might lead to even more severe problems down the line, including a total system failure.

When was the last time your central air conditioner was serviced? You should consider having your unit maintained if it has been a long time since it was last done or if you are unsure when it was last serviced. 

Central air conditioners are an everyday need in both homes and workplaces. Breaking down can be a huge inconvenience when they do so. You should be aware of the following four signs if you're uncertain if your central air conditioner needs repair or replacement:

1. When your air conditioner is operating, it makes strange noises.

When your air conditioner generates unusual sounds is one of the most common signs that you may want AC repair. There's an issue with it if it's causing noise other than a whizzing noise, which indicates that it has encountered a difficulty of some sort.

If you're hearing rattling sounds, they may be coming from a loose part of your machine. But, there is a possibility that something has been trapped in your condenser unit. On the other hand, shrieking or screeching sounds usually result from a damaged or loosened belt.

The inability to resolve these issues as soon as they arise might damage the air conditioner unit in the near run. As soon as you detect a strange sound coming from your system, contact our AC company for an air conditioning repair near you. 

We'd fix it immediately to prevent a total shutdown of your air conditioning system, as well as the inconvenience and expenses associated with being without air conditioning. 

2. You've noticed signs of leaks coming from your unit.

One more indicator that you need air conditioner repair is if you see fluid leaking from your condenser unit. This fluid is referred to as refrigerant, and it's essential for the proper operation of the air conditioner. If it starts to leak, the air conditioner will soon stop producing cold air totally.

Mold may grow in your furniture, walls, and carpets due to leaking water, risking the individuals' health who live in the property. After the central air conditioner has been fixed or replaced, mold and moisture may develop up around it, resulting in significant repair expenses for the property.

3. Your air conditioning system is blowing warm air 

The purpose of purchasing an air conditioning unit is not only to allow it to sit about and look elegant. Sustaining your family's comfort throughout the hot and humid summer season must be a specific duty of an air conditioner. 

The presence of warm air coming from your air conditioner is the most obvious indicator that it needs to be repaired immediately.

A room cannot be made chilly by an air conditioner unless it's blowing cooled air into the room. Curious about the source of this issue? The condenser is the most common cause of problems. It's possible that your air conditioner isn't generating cold air due to a refrigerant shortage or a defective evaporator coil, which is the problem.

4. It has increased your energy bill.

Unexpectedly high energy bills without any additional consumption are another sign that your air conditioning system needs to be replaced or repaired. Many factors might contribute to this issue, such as a faulty thermostat switch, leaks in your HVAC system's ductwork, or the fact that your air conditioning unit is coming to the end of its effective life span.

If your electricity costs continue to rise, but the rates charged by your electric provider remain the same, it may be time to repair rather than replace your air conditioner. 

Purchasing a new energy-efficient air conditioning unit to replace an older, inefficient system may be more expensive upfront. But if you anticipate remaining in your house for at least another seven to ten years, the benefits from your new unit would more than accounting for the high operating costs.

We'd like to keep it cool! 

As required, you should replace your air conditioner unit if it has been in use for more than ten years. No matter how good it is, any air conditioning unit that is more than 15 years old must be replaced. If you're uncertain whether or not your AC needs repair, there are four key signs to look out for: high energy bills, frequent repairs, strange noises, and hot spots in your home. 

Don't hesitate to call Abbotsford Refrigeration & Air Conditioning if you see any of these signs and would like to schedule an initial assessment. Depending on your needs, we can assist you in determining whether repair or replacement is the best decision for your residential or commercial AC. We have professional HVAC contractors who would be glad to offer a hand to AC units installation and an air conditioning repair.

Guest Contributor: Michael Mabansag

Green Building Tips for Building Your New Home

Nearly 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is due to the construction of buildings throughout the world. CO2 emissions also have an impact on natural habits globally. Each of us can reduce our carbon footprint. We can significantly reduce our carbon footprints when building new homes, keep reading to find out how! 

Use Sustainable Materials to Build Your New Home

As you build your home, choosing materials that are sustainable will help you to achieve the green home you are aiming for and can be the foundation of your new build. Even the home’s plumbing can be done in an eco-friendly way. Typically, a simple new build of a two-bed cottage style home would generate approximately 80 tons of CO2 emissions. Renewable materials such as straw bale, hemp, or timber helps to remove carbon from the atmosphere; they “sequester” CO2 throughout their lifetime and can store carbon. 

“Carbon sequestration” refers to the process of long-term storing and removing carbon from the atmosphere. The goal is to reduce climate change globally. Sustainable forestry practices increase the ability of the forests to sequester carbon on their own. This improves soil and water quality. As you are building your home it is good to know the following: 

·      6 tons of CO2 are sequestered by straw

·      5.5 tons are sequestered by hemp 

·      30 tons are sequestered by solid timber 

We could, easily, reduce 31 tons of global carbon emissions by constructing homes with wood versus concrete and steel. 

Build Your Green Home with Glazing Windows

The windows in your home impact how much heat enters and exits your home. During the summer months, approximately 87% of heat is absorbed into your home. 49% of your home’s heat escapes during the winter months; the, overall, energy efficiency of your windows is extremely important. Double-glazed window systems are your best bet, and they are viewed as the benchmark when it comes to energy efficiency. It is important to select double-glazed glass windows that are outfitted with timer or “UPVC” frames. “UPVC” stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. 

There are several benefits of having UPVC frames, and they are: 

·      Due to being less porous, maintenance is reduced 

·      They have an increased lifespan 

·      They are resistant to high impact 

·      They often last decades 

·      No discoloration when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight 

·      Can be recycled 

Choosing a double-glazed window will help you save money on your energy bills, but it will also improve the comfort of your home. 

Purchase Energy Efficient Electrical Appliances for Your New Green Home

When you are building your home, there will be many choices that you will have to make throughout the process. One of those choices are which appliances you would like in your home. If you want to practice green living at home, it is best to select appliances that are energy-efficient. As the name suggests, energy-efficient appliances use the least amount of energy as possible. 

Energy-efficient appliances come in 2 different varieties: 

1.    6-star energy rating 

2.    10-star energy rating 

Energy consumption and the size of the appliance generate that appliance’s star rating. Appliances are tested and measured for their energy consumption and to determine the minimum energy performance criteria for that particular model. Once the appliance is tested they can be granted an Energy Rating Label. The more stars granted, the higher the energy efficiency. 

Here is a list of some appliances that would receive an Energy Rating Label: 

·      Air Conditioners

·      Clothes Dryers

·      Computer Monitors

·      Dishwashers

·      Fridges and Freezers

·      Washing Machines

·      TVs 

·      HVAC Systems 

As you are choosing your appliances select a model with a higher rating to ensure that you achieve the green home you are hoping to build. 

Use Solar Panels in the Construction of Your New Green Home

Sunlight is a renewable resource. A renewable resource is a substance that holds economic value which can be replaced and replenished in less time than it takes to use the supply. It is abundant and is freely available. It can be used as energy. In fact, the energy that sunlight generates in a single hour is enough to satisfy the needs of the world for one year. 

The benefits of using solar panels are: 

·      Reduces your energy bills 

·      Emits zero greenhouse gases, and helps the environment 

·      Improves the value of your home 

·      Versatility with installation 

·      Can be used anywhere 

Select Finishes and Decorations that are Eco-Friendly and Sustainable for your New Green Home

As you begin the make the final selections in your home, you should continue to be thoughtful and intentional in what you choose. Green interior finishes and home furnishings are just as important as the aforementioned aspects of your new green home’s design. Arguably, these items are more impactful as they are the items that will be in your direct living environment. They will touch your skin and will add to the air you breath every day. Here are some sustainable materials to be select for the inside your home: 

·      Repurposed materials – Breathing new life into an item is a great way of keeping your home sustainable and eco-friendly. Adding a new coat of paints, or reupholstering, a piece extends the lifetime of that item and keeps it out of a landfill. 

·      Bamboo – It is beautiful, versatile, and sustainable. A variety of home furnishings and decorations are made from this material. 

·      Reclaimed wood – Many people choose to use reclaimed wood throughout their home interior. It is often used for flooring. 

The construction of homes generates a significant amount of CO2 emissions across the globe. Luckily, we can help to cut CO2 emissions by making intentional, sustainable, choices. Building a green home helps the environment and can be cost effective as well. You can save a considerable amount of money, long-term, by using sustainable materials, selecting energy-efficient windows and appliances, utilizing solar panels, and by carefully selection sustainable interior flooring and decorations. Each choice we make goes a long way in helping to heal our Earth. 

Guest Contributor: Jade Piper

How to Redesign Your Kitchen For a Luxury Food and Drink Experience

You might automatically associate luxury with extravagance or luxury with things that are beyond your means. However, luxury doesn't have to mean extravagance-it can be as simple as enjoying a luxury food experience. With this in mind, the design of your kitchen should reflect this luxury, by incorporating something as simple as marble countertops and a beverage station for a more luxurious feel. Explore the ways you can achieve a luxury home interior design for your kitchen to ensure your guests have a wonderful luxury food experience!

Marble Countertops: The Ultimate Luxury Host Experience!

A typical question on home renovation forums is what should I be looking out for when redesigning my kitchen? What extra touches might help me tap into my inner luxury chef? And the most popular answer is, without a doubt, an aesthetically pleasing marble countertop.

Marble has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its lustrous beauty and durability. It's made from limestone that's taken from mother earth, then dissolved into lime or calcium oxide, then heated up to high temperatures to reach its final form as stone. You can find marble available in many colors and textures thanks to this versatility. Marble is also very popular because of its wear and tear abilities. It always looks modern and fresh and your guests will love the luxury vibe your kitchen provides along with the incredible food and drinks.

The Benefits of Building a Beverage Station:

A beverage station can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. It provides a place for guests to congregate and enjoy delicious drinks, as well as a sense of luxury that is often lacking in home-cooked meals. Hosts who set up a beverage station will find it easier to keep track of their guests’ glasses, and will also make it easier for the hosts themselves to enjoy the party!

How to create your own beer/wine/water station with unique details that will delight guests

When creating your own beverage station, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a space in your kitchen that is easily accessible for guests. Next, select drinks that will appeal to a wide range of palates. Finally, add unique details to the station that will make it feel special. Some ideas include decorative glasses, fun straws or stirrers, and beautiful flowers or fruit arrangements. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a beverage station that will delight your guests and make your next dinner party even more special!

Here are some luxury foods ideas to serve your guests on your newly renovated countertops:

Appetizers

Lemon slices, fresh figs, prosciutto-wrapped melon skewers, or shrimp in honey, garlic, and chili sauce are ideal appetizers for your dinner party.

Soup/Salad

Thinly sliced potatoes topped with crème fraîche and sour cream, or sliced tomatoes and cucumbers in a balsamic vinegar dressing would make an excellent soup course. Or serve up classic caesar salad, spinach salad with beets, or chilled seafood salad for your salad course.

Main Course

Serve cedar-plank salmon, beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon, or chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese, caramelized onions, and basil.

Desert

Skip the traditional chocolate mousse in favor of tiramisu or lemon chiffon cake.

Here are some luxury drink ideas to serve your guests with your newly renovated Beverage Station:

Wine & Beer

Look for wines and beers that complement your menu. If you're going with a seafood entree like salmon, try pairing a nice Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Zinfandel. If you opt for a craft beer try an Amber Ale or IPA.

Water

When preparing water for your guest, try cutting some fruit to infuse your water with. You can add oranges and mint into one, and cucumber and blueberries into another.

Espresso

If you want to go all out for your luxury dinner party, a classic and favorite is offering espresso with dessert. It's an easy add-on and one that helps cleanse the palette as well.

Setting your kitchen apart from the rest and creating an ambiance for your guest

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. It's where you cook, eat and spend a lot of time with family and friends. So it pays to make this room as special as possible.

When it comes to renovating your kitchen, don't forget about the little things that can make a big difference. Adding a beverage station or luxury food items can elevate your party from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few changes, you can create an inviting and luxurious space where your guests will love to gather and enjoy amazing food and drinks.

Guest Contributor: Andrew Adams

How to Pick furniture from an Online Shop

Whether you have moved into a new home or house or are remodeling and redecorating your current one, you will need new furniture. You will maybe choose where to buy your furniture based on your financial strength. However, you could marry your need for more excellent furniture with a desire also to obtain the best discounts available.

Then, go shopping online. Interiorbeat.com will get you unique and inexpensive furniture and the best possible deals, and you can save quite a bundle. This option will enable you to furnish your house with the best furniture on the planet. In addition, it will keep your stress levels in check while you are furniture hunting.

Here is how to pick your furniture from your online furniture store.

Research on the Company

The internet is like this big global market without restrictions on who comes on board. Therefore, not every online shop is reliable or reputable. So, research and read about the company you choose. Also, take a close look at the shipping costs and the return policy.

Skim through the Furniture Photos

Although it can be exciting to shop online for furniture, it can also be nerve-wracking. To cut down on the stress, look carefully at the photos. Are you looking for living room furniture? Then select images of the living room furniture store. If you want to furnish your bedroom, check out pictures from a bedroom furniture store.

Maybe you intend to furnish an outdoor setting. An outdoor furniture store will come in handy. Search for photos in home furniture stores, and then take your pick. 

You will find variety by searching the relevant furniture store. Even the Office furniture store will be available on your search. Some stores like https://interiorbeat.com/ have furniture from over fifty different retailers on their site.

Read the Descriptions

Furniture companies choose their wording carefully, so read the descriptions. You will gauge poor-quality furniture from good-quality ones using these descriptions. You will also note that composite and synthetic wood are of lower quality than solid wood.

Click on any links on tabs availed by the shop. These will lead you to specifications, durability, and cleaning instructions.

Check the Measurements

The furniture pieces will not just fit where you want them. You must check the measurements carefully before buying. Double-check your room's sizes too. 

If the measurements are not provided, call the websites and ask for them. Remember, furniture for upstairs rooms must fit the stairway, or you will have to pull it up using ropes.

Be Careful with the Colors

The colors provided by your online furniture store, and especially the living room furniture store, could be exaggerated or distorted. Darker colors like the modern-favored expresso tend to look lighter online. Look at the colors from different computers to be sure.

Be Wary of The Pricing

Shopping online will save you money, but you must be willing to get down to comparing and contrasting prices. Compare prices from three or four online furniture stores before making a decision.

Remember also to account for shipping and any tax charges. Consider the cost of returning should you need to return it.

Look for Sales and Coupons

Retailers on the internet offer sales and coupons to get people to visit their site. Take advantage of these deals and the considerable discounts. Interiorbeat.com will offer you excellent deals for the furniture you need when you need it. 

Parting Shot

Finding furniture online is stressful and time-consuming. However, it is still the best way to acquire amazing furniture at the best prices for your house. You can also get the best deals and capitalize on the sales discounts.

Finally, you can acquire coupons and use them for your online furniture store shopping. Interiorbeat.com will offer you the best deal.

Guest Contributor: Jordan Evan

What Size Ladder Do You Need to Clean Gutters?

The gutter section of your house tends to get dirty, now and then. A dirty gutter can cause damage to your home. So keeping those dirty gutters clean is crucial. But sometimes reaching your home’s gutter can be a struggle. In such cases, a right-sized ladder can help you with that. 

You might want to know how exactly you find out what is the right sized ladder for your gutter?

Well, first you have to measure the height of your gutter, then decide the ladder size. Also, you should consider the type of ladder you are going to use for gutter cleaning.

However, here, we’ll discuss every aspect of gutter cleaning with a ladder in detail and show you exactly how you can do it.

What Is Gutter Cleaning, and Why Is it Important?

Gutter Cleaning refers to the process of clearing out tree leaves, dirt, and other debris from your home’s gutter place. It helps to prevent any clog on the gutter. So that the rainwater can flow smoothly without getting stuck in the gutter and causing water damage to your home.

It’s pretty essential to keep your gutter clean and clean. As you know the gutter system is there to create a panel from your roof to the ground. A dirty gutter panel can disturb the water flow and prevent the gutter system from working efficiently.

Now let's talk about a few benefits of gutter cleaning, this will help you to have a better understanding of its importance.

●     A clean gutter helps to redirect the rainwater away from your house.

●     Keep your windows and window sills dry by minimizing the moisture.

●     Protect your home’s interior and exterior ceilings from getting damaged.

●     Helps to keep your home’s roof construction intact for a long time.

●     It also prevents cracks, uneven flooring on your home’s foundation. 

Selecting the Right Sized Ladder For Gutter Cleaning

You know it by now, a right-sized ladder plays a crucial role in cleaning your home’s gutter. Few things you need to consider while getting a ladder that suited perfectly to your needs. Such as what kind of building you’re staying in, the distance of the gutter from the ground, etc. 

For example, the step ladder is great if you’re working on a single-storied building. The good thing about a step ladder is you can add an extension as per your requirement to reach the gutter. 

Remember, you can’t just use any ladder, the ladder must help you reach the gutter. A ladder that’s too big or too small can’t help you do that. That’s why you have to choose a  ladder for gutter cleaning that will fulfill your needs.  

In the following segment, we’ll talk about what exactly you need to find a suitable ladder for your gutter cleaning work.

Gutter Distance Measurement

Before you can select a ladder for your gutter for cleaning work, first you need to measure the distance from the gutter to the ground. A general one-storied build’s gutter has a length of 10.8 feet long from the ground. And the two-storied building's distance is about 18.7 feet long.

We recommend you should buy a ladder that has extension capability, like a double extended ladder. So that you can add extensions as per your needs. But for instance, a ladder that covers about 26.2 feet long should cover about two-storied buildings. 

Don’t worry if the ladder is too long; this extended ladder comes with folding capability. So that you can unfold as much as you require and keep it in a locked place, you can also take the proper measurement of your building to be sure of what length of ladder you require.

Ladder Standoff if Needed 

If your building’s gutter is too close to the roof, it may cause some trouble while cleaning with a regular ladder. Generally, the gutters are made out of plastic and can’t handle the full pressure of the ladder with you on it. So it’s a good idea to use a standoff with the ladder while cleaning up your gutter. 

A standoff is basically a horizontal stand that helps to clean the gutter without putting any pressure on your building gutter. It really comes in handy while cleaning the drain because you can’t always worry about breaking the gutter while cleaning it. 

Ladder Stabilizer

A ladder stabilizer is a support system that keeps the ladder in one place. It also helps you become independent while cleaning the gutter. Because you can’t always find someone to hold the ladder steady while you’re cleaning the gutter. Sometimes the extension ladder doesn’t have the stabilizer on board.

For such cases, you can buy a combined ladder that comes with a stabilizing bar; you add a stabilizer to the extension ladder in the get-go. A ladder stabilizer helps you put your ladder on any surface, whether it’s stone, wood, or mud. This action makes the gutter cleaning process much more manageable.

Using a Ladder to Clean the Gutter Safely

You need to be careful while cleaning up your home’s gutter place. Keeping your safety in mind, we’d suggest you use a ladder to do the cleaning. A ladder helps you stay in a balanced state while cleaning the waste from the gutter.  

Now let’s talk about some safety measures that you can take before you start cleaning your home’s gutter.

Before you start

A simple reminder before you start because you just can’t forget about your health. Who knows what kind of rubles are hidden in the gutter. So before you start the cleaning process, you can follow the following safety tips to avoid any harm to yourself.

Surrounding Awareness

First and foremost, you need to be aware of what surrounds the gutter place. For example, there could be power cables lying around the gutter, and the drain tends to get wet from time to time. So, it’s not a good idea to stick your hand on something without checking your surroundings. Check if there is an active power cable nearby, if so you need to shut down the power line and start your cleaning process.    

Usage Protective Gears

You can use a few protective gears to shield yourself from the harmful debris that lies in the gutter. Such as:

●     Hand Globes
You need a pair of good-quality hand globes. It will protect your hand from any kind of bacteria that lies in the gutter because of bugs, bird or animal litter, and stuff.

●      Eye Gear
While you’re cleaning out the rubles from your home’s gutter place, the debris tends to get into your eye. So, to protect your eyesight and avoid any damage, eye gear is really crucial.

●     Rubber Shoes

A pair of rubber shoes can help you keep a stable balance on it while climbing up the ladder to clean the gutter. It helps to improve your foot’s grip on the ladder, preventing any falling accident.

Keeping all that aside, let's talk about how to choose the right sized ladder for cleaning up the litter from your home’s gutter.

How to Use a Ladder (tips & Tricks)

Using a ladder to clean up the gutter from your home seems easy enough, right? We have gathered some tips and tricks that’ll make your cleaning process much more manageable. The tricks and tricks are as follows;

●     When you keep the ladder by the gutter, make sure you put it at the right angle. Otherwise, you might lose your balance and fall thus, causing severe injuries to yourself.

●     Before using the ladder, you should check the ladder's condition first. Like every object, a ladder can develop problems over-times. 

●     While climbing up the ladder, be careful and don’t step further than one step. This action can cause you to slip and fall to your doom.

Last words

Your safety should be your main concern while cleaning your household gutter. Selecting a top-quality ladder can provide you with proper safety. If you consider the mentioned safety procedures while using the ladder for cleaning your gutter, there is less chance of endangering yourself while cleaning.

Lastly, you must always consider using a ladder that matches the length of your gutter. I meant using a ladder that helps you reach your home’s gutter with ease. Then again, don’t forget that you should add a standoff and stabilizing extension with your ladder to get the best result to get the best possible result. In doing so, you can ensure the maximum amount of safety for yourself.

Guest Contributor: Bernita Fregoso

8 Important Things to Do Before Selling Your Home

Preparing to sell your house is a significant undertaking. It often indicates a significant life transition, and for the majority of individuals, it is something they do just a few times in their lives. Although significant life transitions might be intimidating, selling your property does not have to be. The secret to a stress-free selling experience is to be organized and prepared before listing your home. 

Should I use a realtor to sell my home? If you are considering selling your property on your own and pocketing the money you would have paid a real estate agent. Avoid the temptation. A for sale by owner process is virtually always a fiasco, requiring financial and time sacrifices. That is why one of the most critical tasks before selling your home is locating an excellent real estate agent.

1. Locate an Excellent Real Estate Agent

If you are considering selling your property on your own and pocketing the money you would have paid a real estate agent. Avoid the temptation. A for sale by owner process is virtually always a fiasco, requiring financial and time sacrifices. That is why one of the most critical tasks before selling your home is locating an excellent real estate agent. 

Hire a highly rated real estate agent that you can trust or the one recommended by your uncle's friend's co-worker's cousin. Conduct some research to choose a real estate agent knowledgeable about your particular market, and then interview to ensure the agent is a good match. 

Your real estate agent should be someone with whom you feel at ease and whom you trust to sell your home for the highest possible price. You will want someone who is knowledgeable and can give you the most returns on your investment and taxes. If you want to learn more information about property taxes, consider doing a quick google search on “1031 exchange explained” to help you better understand and make an informed decision that benefits you. 

2. Adjust the pricing Appropriately

It is crucial to price your house accurately. If you overprice your house, it will either not sell or will take far longer to sell than necessary. Buyers are savvy and readily recognize when a home is overvalued.

3. Deep Clean Your Home

First impressions are critical. Therefore, avoid making a negative impression on a possible buyer with unpleasant odors, unclean flooring, or dusty surfaces. Before marketing your property, please give it a thorough cleaning. It includes toilet cleaning, wiping down surfaces, mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, and scouring bathrooms. Consider hiring pros to keep your space in tip-top shape.

4. Welcome to Purchasers

Bring consumers' attention to your front entrance by making it prominent and approachable. Exterior flaws might give purchasers a negative first impression.

Before you strain yourself attempting to remove fingerprints from the walls, gather all the necessary documents to persuade prospective purchasers. It's critical to have the operating manuals for your appliances and HVAC system on hand, as well as notes regarding the paint colors you used on the walls and any related warranties. They'll demonstrate to the listing agent that you're in charge, even if you're not.

Pull out your previous utility bills while you're at it. You're probably still in denial about having to pay for the water that comes out of the faucet – and goes down the drain – but persevere. Seasonal totals may help your property seem more enticing than the residence across the county.

5. Consult an Expert Before Renovating

It is prudent to treat all proposals with seriousness. By the time purchasers make an offer, they have likely conducted extensive research, and each offer is worth examining. 

Consult the agent before renovating or upsizing. Renovations may take longer and cost more than you anticipate, and in some cases, it is just best to negotiate the selling price with the buyer and then leave any renovations or upsizing to them.

6. Decide How You Want Your Property to be Listed

Generally, there are two methods to sell. You may sell your house either via an agent or with the assistance of a home selling service. While most individuals understand how to deal with an agent, many are unaware that there are economical and straightforward for sale by owner alternatives accessible to homeowners that may save them thousands of dollars. The notion of selling your property is gaining popularity and is expected for many years to come. See this article on three of the most popular for sale by owner services for further information. Once you've considered all of your alternatives, you may select the one that's best for you.

7. Make Deficiencies Known

Ascertain that you reveal any latent and patent faults in your house to the realtor and prospective purchasers.

8. Do Not Overlook the Rear

Maintain an open and practical appearance in your garden. Plant or pot vibrant blooms and maintain a friendly and tidy landscape. Consistently clean up after your dogs to ensure that purchasers feel at ease when exploring the yard.

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

Useful Ideas On How To Design An Energy-efficient Bathroom

Saving energy is important for both conserving natural resources and saving money. When it comes to your home, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms to make as energy-efficient as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss some useful ideas on how you can redesign your bathroom to use less energy.

Plug Your Appliances Into Power Strips

One way to conserve energy and money is by plugging your appliances into power strips. When you're not using them, turn off the power strip. This will save you money on your electric bill and help reduce your carbon footprint.

The bathroom can be a major consumer of energy in the home. However, there are many ways that you can make it more efficient without making any major changes or sacrifices. Tankless water heaters and proper insulation are great ways to make your bathroom more energy-efficient. You can search online for a buying guide for energy-efficient appliances. This way, you can make your purchase decisions with the environment in mind.

Replace Your Old Light Bulbs

Lighting is a very important factor for any bathroom. And the easiest way to make your bathroom more energy-efficient is by replacing your old light bulbs with LED or CFL lights which consume less power and last much longer than incandescent lights. You can use them even in recessed lighting fixtures, as they are available in compact sizes.

If you are not sure which light bulbs to buy, consult with a lighting expert or your local hardware store. You can also find many energy-saving tips online. Just make sure that the new light bulbs you choose fit the fixtures in your bathroom. Remember, every little bit helps when it comes to being more environmentally friendly.

Install A Low-Flow Showerhead

Research has shown that showering accounts for a considerable portion of your home’s energy consumption. This is because it requires substantial amounts of water to function optimally and hence increased electricity bills. So how do you reduce your utility bill? Well, installing low-flow showerheads can significantly cut down on the amount of water used in each household without compromising on quality. A low-flow showerhead serves as an effective tool in ensuring that everyone conserves both clean water and energy at all times – especially when taking long showers! These types are designed with specially constructed nozzles that emit smaller droplets while still providing enough pressure so they feel just like regular ones before being installed onto the main pipe system where they will continue working their magic.

There are several different low-flow showerheads on the market, so do some research and find the best one for your needs! And if you’re handy with tools, installation is a breeze – usually taking no more than 15 minutes or so. Plus, it will save you money in the long run by reducing your water usage each month.

Use A Bathmat

Place a bathmat on the floor in front of your tub or shower to prevent slipping and reduce the amount of water that is tracked onto the floor. Choose a bathmat made from absorbent materials like cotton or bamboo to help soak up excess water.

When you're finished bathing, use a towel to pat yourself dry before stepping onto the bathmat. This will help keep the mat dry and clean, making it easier to clean when needed. Be sure to hang your towel up so it can air-dry between uses. A wet towel can breed bacteria and fungus, which can cause skin irritations.

Turn Off The Water When You're Not Using It

The water heater is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. But you can cut costs by simply turning off the hot water while you shampoo and lather up, thus reducing your hot-water use. To save even more money, consider installing a low-flow showerhead or faucet aerators (which reduce flow rates). These are easy to install on your own with just an adjustable wrench, but we do recommend that you consult with a plumber for proper installation if necessary. A professional will also be able to make sure these new installations comply with local building codes.

Use A Low-Flow Toilet

Low-flow toilets use less water per flush than traditional toilets, so they can help you save water and money. Toilets account for nearly 30% of a home’s indoor water use, so upgrading to a low-flow model can make a big difference.

If your bathroom needs an upgrade, consider installing a low-flow toilet. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush than traditional toilets, which can help you save water and money. Toilets account for nearly 30% of the average home’s indoor water use, so upgrading to a low-flow model can make a big difference.

There are many ways that you can make your bathroom more energy-efficient. By making a few simple changes, you can save money on your energy bills and help the environment at the same time. These are some of the best ways to make your bathroom more energy-efficient.

The Different Types Of Parcel Boxes And How To Choose

People constantly praise technology and various latest inventions, which is completely understandable, of course, however, most of us frequently forget how essential and useful parcel boxes are.

They are literally the foundation of the packaging industry and without them, practically no company or person would ever be able to send or receive anything. There are numerous types of parcel boxes and today we’ll talk a little bit more about it.

The Most Common Types Of Shipping Boxes

Anti-Theft Package Box

A majority of people nowadays turn to online shopping, whether it’s because they do not have enough free time on their hands to pick it up, or it’s because the place they are ordering from is too far. 

And this is a great option because, with just one click, you can get exactly what you want. Now, what are you going to do if someone has sent you a package, yet you are not at home because there's a chance somebody may steal your package?

If you want to prevent that, then you should opt for an anti-theft package delivery box. There are so many different options when it comes to this, however, if you want to get the best one, then just find a list of the best reviewed anti theft package boxes to obtain the one that’s most secure. After that, you will no longer worry about losing your items.

Corrugated & Cardboard Boxes

Corrugated are made out of three sheets of sturdy paperboard, which is not the case with cardboard boxes. Namely, these are perfect for moving or shipping because they are very resilient and can withstand different things during transport.

Another great thing about them is the fact that they can also be recycled and reused thanks to this thick material. When it comes to cardboard boxes, they are made out of thick paper and are not often utilized for shipping. They are mostly used for greeting cards and food packaging.

What Else Do We Have?

Rigid Boxes

These are also known as set-up boxes and are actually very sturdy and thick and do not fold like some other types of boxes. Frequently, they are employed for more expensive items where it’s crucial that no part is damaged during transport.

Furthermore, rigid boxes are also utilized when the item within is too heavy and requires additional support. The best example of a rigid box is for sure the one used to place an iPhone. 

Wooden Boxes

A lot of business owners and companies employ wooden boxes when they are having bigger shipments, like freights because these things always require huge storage space. The good thing about these types of boxes is the fact that they are very robust and resilient and can frequently be found in bigger sizes which is not the case with other types. 

And just like the corrugated boxes that were previously mentioned, these can also be reused and recycled.

The world of packaging can sometimes be very confusing since it offers so many different types of boxes, which is why it can be hard to determine when to use what. That's why we talked about them today, so you can easily figure out which one is currently most suitable for you.

Blue Collar Eats - SemSem Mediterrian

This episode of Blue Collar Eats, we headed over to SemSem Mediterrian located at 6905 159th St, Tinley Park, IL 60477. This place has only been open for around 5 years, but is “packed with centuries of Mediterrian culture” says Kevin. We were joined by the owner Omar to try some of the delicious food he offers at his restaurant.

“Everything you see is made fresh. Everything from the hummus, falafel, to the salad, to the sauces,” says Omar. He takes pride in knowing his ingredients are always fresh and everything is always prepared the day of, nothing is stored and served. “The bread, we get it daily from my other restaurant that has a bakery in it.”

Kevin interviewed a gentleman named LaForce. “I’m a big fan of the bowls. It’s a good healthy spot to eat, and I’m always on the go, so I try to eat healthy.” He topped off the interview with, “Whatever your palette is telling you, just go for it. It’s delicious.”

As they sat down to eat, Omar explained everything they had laid out in front of them to try. The food they decided to try was the steak shawarma, steak shawarma pita, chicken shawarma wrap, chicken over rice, steak shawarma bowl and a vegetarian plate. Omar explained that they use 11 different spices for their chicken, and let it marinate for 24 hours. As for the steak, they use 7 different spices.

“This is my personal favorite, the steak wrap” says Kevin. He took a big bite and said “Mm! Very good.”

Omar previously finished med school, but he has so much passion for food he decided to leave the medical profession and open SemSem Mediterrian.

“I’m proud of this.. I have so much pride in making this food. Everyone loves it.” says Omar.

Whenever you’re in the area, be sure to check out SemSem Mediterrian, you won’t regret it. It’s full of healthy, delicious mediterrian food that is full of flavor and protein.

Be sure to check out our Blue Collar Eats episode of SemSem Mediterrian on Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing’s Facebook page, under the tab Blue Collar Eats.

5 Reasons to Try Foodscaping Your Lawn

For many Americans tired of driving to the grocery store for their weekly produce, foodscaping is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative. Instead of a yard full of grass, foodscaping is a landscaping technique that covers all usable space with an arrangement of plants that can be eaten.

If you own a home, there’s a good chance you have some form of landscaping in your yard, whether it’s shady trees or blooming flowers. But combining your landscaping with foodscapes could provide a visually appealing yard that also produces meals – and will help you cut back on your gas and grocery bills. Without further ado, here are four reasons to give it a go.

1. Fresh produce without a trip to the store.

Foodscaping offers an ultra-convenient alternative to going to the grocery store to buy produce. Instead, fresh produce is just steps from your kitchen. Foodscaping also gives you control over the quality of the food you eat. You’ll have organic, pesticide-free food at your fingertips every day!

2. Reduce your carbon footprint.

Speaking of cutting out trips to the grocery store, foodscaping can help you cut back on your carbon footprint! Fewer trips to the store mean you can avoid the carbon emissions from your car, as well as the emissions from shipping produce across the country to the supermarket. Most of the fruits and veggies at the grocery store travel hundreds of miles in inefficient refrigerated trucks that are environmentally taxing.

3. Cut down on your gas and grocery bills.

Reducing the number of trips you take in your car means you’ll save money on gas. However, foodscaping can also help you save on your grocery bills. The upfront cost is roughly equivalent to landscaping with trees, shrubs, and sod. But over time, edible plants can pay for themselves. The fresh fruits and vegetables harvested from your yard year after year can save you a bundle on groceries. Some have claimed to save more than $1,000 a year by dedicating some yard space to food.

4. Save time and energy with low-maintenance plants.

It may seem like an edible yard is a huge time commitment, but it doesn’t have to be. If you choose hearty plants that are native to your area, they will grow easily with little effort on your part.

• In hot climates, such as Texas, look for plants that require little water. Beans, spinach, tomatoes, cabbage and broccoli do well in drought-like conditions.

• In humid conditions, such as those found in Florida or Hawaii, try your hand at tropical fruits such as pineapple, bananas and mangos.

• For colder climates without frost, plant blueberries, strawberries, melons and rhubarb that will add color to your yard. Plenty of tree varieties do well in this type of climate as well, so you can enjoy fresh cherries, plums, olives and almonds.

• In the extreme cold, you’ll want to grow hardy plants that can withstand the cold. Broccoli, cabbage, carrots, peas, radishes and chard do well in cold climates. There are also many berries, nuts and fruits that can survive the bitter cold.

5. Find a creative outlet.

Especially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many have turned to gardening as a creative outlet while they are working from home. Foodscaping can help you avoid extra trips to the grocery store, and you may find maintaining your yard can become a calming and enjoyable hobby rather than a chore.

Jenna Careri is a writer covering the environment and energy industry. She is a Massachusetts native and graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and French.