How Do You Style an Area Rug?

area rugs

If you have an eye for interior decor, you will always tell if a rug was just thrown on the floor or whether enough thought was put into styling it correctly to match the rest of the decor. There is always more to good area orienal rugs than just laying one down on the floor. 

But what does it take? How do you style an area rug to bring out its essence and compliment the house decor? This article provides actionable tips that will make a world of difference on whether the carpet is worth its dime. 

Important Rules on Decorating With Area Rugs 

The Size Matters

Do not skimp on the size. This is one of the most common mistakes that many people make when decorating with area rugs. You want the carpet to make a statement for the space you are decorating. 

If it is too large, it will overcrowd the space, but if it is too small, it will lose its essence and look like a dust matt. Therefore, the first thing you should do is take measurements of the room you intend to place the rug and purchase a rug that sits a minimum of 8 inches and a maximum of 24 inches from the wall—the bigger the room, the bigger the space from the wall. 

Use the Rug to Frame the Furniture in the Room

A rug works best when placed under the furniture in the room. Placing the carpet under all key furniture pieces in the living room creates a framed-picture look – making the room feel more aesthetically appealing.  

For example, in the dining room, the rug should be big enough to accommodate the table and all the chairs without feeling too cramped. The aim is to ensure that all the furniture pieces sit inside the rug even when the chairs are pulled out. 

However, if this is not possible, aim to have the centerpiece sitting in the middle of the rug and the surrounding furniture partially on the mat.

You can have the coffee table at the center and the chairs and couches partially on the carpet in the living room. 

In the bedroom, the aim is to have a cozy warm area to place your feet firth thing in the morning. Therefore, if the rug is not big enough to cover the whole area under the bed, you can cover two-thirds of the bed and extend it to one side of the bed. Then style two small runners on the other side of the bed. 

Don’t Forget the Rug Pads.

Rug pads will not only help hold your rug in place, but it is also a great way to preserve the rug for longer. So if you want to keep your carpet in place and protect it from wear and tear from the walk-on traffic, invest in good rug pads.  

Also, remember to check the cleaning instruction on the rug to ensure that you clean it often. Keep the mat away from constant direct sunlight if you do not want it to fade too quickly. 

Conclusion

While a rug might be an afterthought for many homeowners, it can be an essential piece that holds the whole home decor into place. But it is not just about purchasing Persian antique rugs Vienna VA and placing them in that empty space in your living room. 

There is a lot of thought that goes into getting the right piece and placing it accordingly to compliment the rest of the house decor. Ensure to get it right. 

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How to Replace Chimney Liner

Chimney Cleaning

Is it time to replace your chimney liner? Are you looking to do it yourself and save a few bucks? 

Then you are in the right place. This article gives you a step-by-step guide on how to replace a chimney liner like a pro without having to hire chimney contractors

Step-by-step Guide into Changing Your Chimney Liner

Without proper care and maintenance, a fireplace can pose a severe safety hazard in a home – and a chimney is by far the leading cause of concern. As part of chimney maintenance, experts recommend that you replace your chimney liner at least once every 15 to 20 years. 

So here are the steps to follow to replace your chimney liner safely. However, it is essential to mention that this is a relatively complicated and involved process and is best left to the professionals. But if you are feeling confident and ready for the challenge, continue to the guide below. 

Step 1. Insect the chimney and take measurements of the old liner. 

You will need to know the details of the insides of the chimney. So grab a flashlight and get to work. Thoroughly inspect the chimney for anything that might pose a challenge when removing the old liner and installing the new one. 

If everything is clear, go ahead and measure the diameter and length of the old liner – this will be used when purchasing the new liner. 

Step 2. Prepare the tools needed for the project.

This project may not need you to be in full safety gear, but you need to prepare a pair of work gloves and safety glasses. You will also need a razor knife, power drill, and a flathead screwdriver.

You will also need to purchase the new liner following the measurements you took in step 1 (It will come as a kit containing the stainless steel chimney liner, connector, top plate, and rain cap).

Step 3. Prepare the liner

Lay the liner of a soft surface (preferably on grass) and straighten up any inconsistencies. Now apply the T connection. The part with a hole is known as the vertical part of the T, and the part with the looping hose is the horizontal T. 

Start by connecting the liner to the vertical T part base and using the screwdriver to tighten the part in place.  

Step 5. Pull out the old liner from the flue. 

To remove the old liner, first, you will need to disconnect the T at the chimney base. Once the vertical and horizontal T parts have been detached, go ahead and pull out the old liner from the top of the chimney. 

Step 6. Insert and connect the new liner

Using the vertical part of the T as the guide, drop the new liner down the chimney until you reach the thimble. It should go down smoothly if there is no barrier inside the vent. Once the vertical T reaches the thimble, it is now time to complete the T connection. 

Now connect the horizontal part of the T to the vertical part of the T and, using the screwdriver, tighten them together tightly.

Step 7. Now connect the T connection to the stove

Once the T connection is in place, use the drill to make as many holes on the horizontal part of the T as there are screws on the stovepipe (most stoves have three screws per connection point). Connect the stovepipe to the horizontal part of the T and use the screwdriver to tighten it. 

Step 8. Remove the excess liner at the top and install the top plate and the cap. 

Now go back up to the roof and, using the razor knife, cut off any excess liner floating on top. Then carefully install both the top plate and the rain cap. Once you have installed these two, then you have successfully completed replacing your chimney liner. 

Conclusion

This guide is presented in a simplified way to give you an idea of what to expect when replacing a chimney liner. However, it is important to note that the process might vary depending on the liner manufacturer of the design of the chimney. 

Also, replacing a chimney liner is a job best left to a professional. A simple error can lead to severe injuries or damage to the whole chimney system, which might eventually cost you a lot of money. So call chimney relining services Bowie and get a consultation when you decide to change your chimney liner. 

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Are Marble Countertops Really That Bad?

marble countertops

Marble countertops are exquisite. They are soft, brilliant white natural stones representing luxury and grandeur. The final finish, without a doubt, is every homeowner’s dream. However, if you pop your head into the construction industry, you will hear a warning from every corner – Stay away from marble countertops. Marble countertops easily etch and are relatively hard to maintain. 

But are marble countertops really that bad? This article will tell you why the rumors might be exaggerated and why you should give marble countertops a chance. 

Facts About Marble Countertops

There is a whole lot of information on why you should avoid marble countertops. However, no one tells you why you should give it a try. Therefore, let us tell you some of the reasons why marble countertops might work for you.  

The Aging Adds to Its Charm

Some marble enthusiasts believe that the weathered look on a marble countertop adds to its charm – more like the rugged jeans trend. It adds an element of uniqueness and character to the whole countertop design. 

Although it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, if you are not a strict perfectionist and have a little artistic side, this might be an excellent way to have one of a kind design without the need to protect the counter with your life. You just let the counter ‘design itself’. Create its subtle unique appeal – just like a finely antiqued table, molded through years of use. 

Marble Is Delicate and Needs Care.

Marble countertops provide a bright, gleaming surface with unique subtle veining – characteristics that are highly desirable for the current interior design trends. The downside is that the surface has a very delicate and soft texture. Even a slight pressure or heat can cause a scratch or a stain, causing it to etch. 

However, if marble countertops are your dream, do not let this scare you away. There are simple everyday practices that can help you keep your stone in top shape for a long time. 

  • Always use trivets and coasters. Marble is highly porous. Using placemats and trivets before placing anything on the surface will help prevent any spillage that might lead to staining and heat damage. If you accidentally spill anything, wipe it as soon as possible before it gets sucked in and causes a stain. 
  • Use honed marble instead. Honed marble is not only stylish and modern, but it can also help camouflage surface etching. 
  • Regular countertop maintenance. Regular marble maintenance can make a big difference for your countertops. Having a professional fabricator regularly add a layer of sealant on your countertop can ensure that your stone serves you for a long time. 

The Beauty Is Timeless.

Unlike factory-made materials like quartz, marble countertops beauty is timeless. It doesn’t fade and never loses its value or splendor. The factory-made duplicates can mimic the color and patterns of a natural stone, but these wear out with time in most cases. 

It is also clear that although the factory-made substitutes may look the same, marble is always unique, and the veining on each slab is completely different and unique. This is one of the most powerful characteristics of a natural stone. 

An honorable mention: Marble Is Affordable

Although this is not a qualifying factor for when you are looking for the best quality countertops, it is worth mentioning. Marble is very price friendly and is suitable for any budget. Marble has a variety of types that sell at different prices to fit perfectly into your budget. They are more affordable than some factory-made materials. 

Marble is also readily available worldwide, and you most likely won’t need to have to pay exorbitant delivery costs. Hence, saving you even more money. 

So Are Marble Countertops Bad?

Therefore, even with all the negatives and warnings all over the industry and the internet alike, marble countertops are not all bad. They are beautiful, unique, and lavish countertop materials that can serve you for a long time without undertaking countertop replacement NC. You just need the right attitude and proper understanding of the maintenance protocols.

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When to Cut Down a Tree on Your Property

tree services

Sometimes just like pets, the trees in your backyard become part of the family. They are Mother-nature’s masterpiece. They are beautiful, comforting and they can be a source of beautiful memories. 

It is, therefore, understandable that it might be hard to let go. However, sometimes it is just unavoidable. So how do you know when to cut down a tree on your property? This article aims to give you the possible signs that it is time to hire tree services to remove the tree. 

What Are the Signs That a Tree on My Property Needs to Be Cut Down?

The benefits of trees are endless. But if a tree is sick or dead, the adverse effects might quickly surpass the positives. In such a case, it is advisable to cut down the tree and avoid any safety hazards. Hence here are some of the signs. 

The Tree Has Invasive Roots.

Sometimes, the tree might get its naughty little roots (or even branches) in places that it shouldn’t. For example, trees with horizontal roots might grow and eventually invade the rest of the property, causing destruction.

The roots will grow and stretch and eventually start fighting with your foundation for space or even get into the septic tank. If this happens, consult your local arborist and see if it could be pruned if it needs to go immediately. 

Fungus Growth

Fungi is a sign of an already sick tree or a tree that is dying soon. Fungi cause tree diseases such as root rot and canker disease. The fungi and mushrooms grow on the areas of the tree that is already rotting. 

Once you notice fungi on your tree, the tree will soon lose vigor and will quickly wither and eventually discolor. If you suspect that the damage to the tree is extensive, it is advisable to cut down the tree. 

The tree looks sickly and without vigor.

Even without noticeable fungi, a tree can start slowly losing its life. The once majestic tree is now only a shadow of itself. Dying trees are a source of numerous safety hazards, and it is advisable to cut them down as soon as possible. 

Other than the likelihood of spreading the disease to all the other vegetation in the surrounding area, they can easily fall and cause serious damage to the property and infrastructure in the neighborhood. 

Symptoms of a sick tree are; excessive leaf drop, weak branches, peeling bark, discoloration, rotting roots, and stem, etc. 

Shoots Are Growing Around the Tree. 

If small shoots start growing near the trunk base, it is a sign that the tree is under severe distress. This usually occurs when the tree is under stress, and it is a sign that the tree might die soon. 

Although this is not a common problem, it is advisable to get a professional arborist to help you determine whether a tree needs to be removed, or diagnosed and treated to solve the problem.

The Tree is Unattractive or Difficult to Maintain

Sometimes, the reason does not need to be grand and sad. It might be as simple as a tree that is not suitable for your home’s aesthetic or not pleasing to the eye. Or maybe, the tree needs a lot more than you can provide. Whatever the reason, it is ok to let it go. Do not feel sad and blame yourself. 

Is it Legal to cut down trees on private property? 

Contrary to popular belief, it is perfectly legal to cut down trees on private property, as long as the city does not protect them. Every city has its own Tree Protection Ordinance, which regulates the removal of trees. 

To know whether your tree is protected, visit this website, select your city and read the local laws regarding tree cutting. Alternatively, call your local arborist in your area to get guidance on the law requirements. 

Now cut down the tree.

If your tree falls under any of the above signs, it is perfectly okay and legal to contact a tree removal services Maryland to cut it down. Now prepare your tools and get to work. If this is not your cup of tea, call an expert. 

For every tree, you cut, plant two. So do not let the area go to waste. Consult with the arborist and find a suitable tree to grow in the now vacant space. 

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How Can I Make My Own Home Addition?

home additions

If your family is getting large, home addition is an excellent way to get the extra space without buying a bigger house. The cool thing is anyone with extra space can make a home addition, as all you need to do is find an experienced home addition builder and proceed with the project.

Are you wondering how can I make my own home addition? Well, you only need to follow a set of steps, and in no time, you will have the extra room you have been yearning for. To help you out, here is a guide to follow:

Step 1: Determine the property lines.

Your property lines will heavily influence your house plan, so this is the place to begin. Depending on your state, you may need to visit the municipal offices to tell the location of the utilities.

In some states, you simply need to hire the services of an experienced and certified landscaping contractor and after you have identified the lines, go ahead with designing the floor plan.

Step 2: Design the floor plan

Once you have known where the utilities lie, your next move should be to come up with the floor plan. Work with your local residential designer or architect and come up with a plan for your property. As you are coming up with the plan, don’t just think about how you will live in the new house, also think about how it will affect the look of your main house so ensure the plan is attractive.

Step 3: Hire the right contractor.

The quality of your home addition will be heavily influenced by the contractor you hire, so be cautious when hiring. A great place to start is from friends and family. If none knows a good professional to work with, you may knock on the door of the homes that recently had an addition put on.

Collect contacts of three or more contractors and schedule a meeting with them. During the meeting, talk about the project, the design issues if present, and ways to save money. After you have met all the contractors, decide on the best to work with based on how they conducted themselves and the depth of their knowledge.

Step 4: Build the addition.

After settling on a contractor, now proceed with the project. Begin with building the foundation, frame your structure, add sheathing and roofing, install windows and doors, connect the electrical lines, add insulation, finish the interior, make the last connections then complete the punch list.

Home addition cost

The cost of the home addition is an important factor to consider, of course, unless money isn’t an issue for you. It’s hard to pinpoint the exact amount you should expect to spend on the project as the amount varies depending on plenty of factors such as the contractor you hire, the materials you use, your location, the size of your project, among many other things.

To save money, work with an experienced contractor who will recommend some of the best affordable products to go for.

When you are hiring home addition companies DC, ask for bids from the companies. This way, you will see the materials that a contractor will use and how much they cost.

While you are looking to save as much as possible, don’t hire an extremely cheap company as they might be inexperienced and do a shoddy job. At the same time, avoid extremely pricey companies as they might be spending a lot of money on advertising, and all you will be doing is paying for the brand they have created.

For best results, take your time to find a company that gives you value without charging you an arm and a leg.

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What Is the Most Common Cause of a Dishwasher Leaking?

dishwasher repair company

Dishwasher leaks are one of the most common problems you have to deal with as a homeowner. Is your dishwasher leaking, and wondering what is the most common cause of a dishwasher leaking? According to commercial dishwasher repairs professionals, the dishwasher can leak due to plenty of reasons that include:

Faulty door

If there are drips or water is accumulating directly under the door, it’s a clear sign that you have a faulty door. Chances are the door latch is loose or misaligned due to the regular opening and closing.

To stop the leaking, you simply need to tighten the loose screws on the latch using a screwdriver.

If the latch is properly in place, but still the dishwasher is leaking, this might have to do with the door seal. Have you had your unit for a long time? Chances are the seal has dried out and become brittle. If this is the case, you simply need to replace the seal.

While at it, check the door hinges and tighten them if loose. Also, remove any food particles that might have dried up on the door preventing it from closing properly.

Misaligned dishwasher

To prevent the water level from rising on one side, you should have the dishwasher sitting on one level. If the appliance isn’t level, the door won’t close properly, and water will leak from the unit onto the floor.

If you feel your appliance leaks are due to misalignment, place a level at the bottom of the dishwasher and use shims and other items to ensure the system is level. To stop any leaking, ensure the system is level vertically and horizontally.

Defective tub

This problem is common in old dishwashers. The detergents and minerals in the water can cause corrosion of the tub. There also might be a hole in the tub.

As you can guess, a defective tub causes water to leak from the dishwasher. To bring the problem to a stop, replace the worn-out tub but if you have had the dishwasher for a long time and the damage is extensive, simply get a new unit.

Clogs in the drainage system

When your dishwasher is clogged, it fills with water faster than its draining, and the excess water looks for an escape route, which is often through the door and onto the floor.

To stop dishwasher leaks due to clogs, you simply need to get rid of the clogging material. You can hire a professional to unclog the unit, but if you don’t have money to hire one, unclog it yourself under the guidance of the owner’s manual.

Use of dishwashing liquid

While it might seem like the best detergent to clean the dishes, dishwashing liquid has been shown to create a lot of foam, leading to leaks. The cool thing is you can prevent these leaks from coming about in the future by using detergents specifically meant for dishwashers.

Malfunctioning spray arm

The spray arm spins during a wash cycle and rinse cycles and sprays water onto the dishes. If the dishwasher is overcrowded or incorrectly loaded, utensils and dishes will block the arm from rotating properly or cause it to get dislodged.

It’s also common for the spray arm to get damaged after years of use, leading to leaks. To fix the problem, remove the lower dish rack and confirm whether the spray arm moves freely. If not, clear the obstructions and if damaged, remove and replace it.

Work with an expert

Regardless of the leakage cause, it’s wise you have the unit inspected by a commercial appliances repair Alexandria professional who will fix the source of the leakage, inspect the unit and fix other issues your unit might be having.

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Is an Outdoor Fireplace Worth it?

outdoor fireplace builders

If you have a large backyard, the thought of hiring outdoor fireplace builders and installing an outdoor fireplace must have closed your mind. While this is the case, many homeowners’ common question is, is an outdoor fireplace worth it?

If your backyard allows it, an outdoor fireplace is totally worth it, and you should go ahead and install it. Some benefits of installing the unit include:

You add warmth and comfort to your home.

When you install the unit, you get to use your backyard even in the cold winter months. This is because the outdoor fireplace extends the use of your outdoors, even in the colder months. Being able to use your backyard even in the colder months comes with plenty of benefits that include:

  • You enjoy your backyard space even when it’s freezing outside.
  • You can entertain even in the colder months without worrying about exposing your guests to the cold.
  • If you run a restaurant, installing an outdoor fireplace leads to longer use of the outdoor spaces, which means the customers spend more time in your premises, which boosts your profits.

You increase your property value.

If you are looking to sell your property down the line, installing the outdoor fireplace increases your home value, so you sell your property at a higher price when selling time comes.

Your property becomes a big draw to homeowners that love outdoor living without incurring a huge upfront expense.

If you are selling a restaurant, the idea of having an outdoor fireplace can appeal to many restaurant buyers as they can sell more to their customers even during the cold months.

The outdoor fireplace functions as a great entertaining joint

Can you imagine sitting with your family members or friends enjoying a drink outdoors? It’s a fulfilling feeling, isn’t it?

Whether you are recounting experiences or exchanging banters with your friends, the outdoor fireplace creates an excellent gathering spot for you, your family, and friends.

The fireplace creates a romantic ambiance.

Other than the fireplace being an excellent place to bring people together, it can also be a perfect romantic getaway. When you are with your better half sitting in silence under the stars, the outdoor fireplace makes a night memorable and romantic.

What should you consider when installing an outdoor fireplace?

As you have seen, an outdoor fireplace comes with plenty of benefits. Unfortunately, you can’t install the unit haphazardly. To get the best results from it, you need to consider plenty of factors before installation. Some of these factors include:

Size of your backyard

The size of your backyard will determine the size of the outdoor fireplace you should install. Of course, you shouldn’t even think about installing the fireplace if you don’t have a backyard to work with. If you have a large backyard, install a large fireplace, and vice versa.

The size of the fireplace

The size of the fireplace you install will depend on many factors such as the size of your backyard, your intended purpose for the fireplace, among many other things. To install the right unit, work with experienced outdoor kitchen contractors Long Island that will guide you in the right direction.

Location of the fireplace

Where will you place the fireplace? This is an important factor to consider as installing it in the wrong place means you don’t get the most from it. For example, you can install the fireplace close to the shrubs, and it will look good there, but it will be a fire hazard as the shrubs can easily catch on fire.

If putting up the fireplace for the first time, work with a contractor to guide you around.

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Can You Cut Granite Countertops Yourself?

granite countertops

Granite countertops are a popular choice among homeowners, and they are loved for their timeless allure, ease of maintenance, and durability. Sometimes you might have money to buy the countertops but not to hire a contractor to install them.

If you are in this situation, you must be asking, can you cut granite yourself? Fortunately, you can cut the stone by yourself.

When you are doing it, remember that granite is extremely dense and hard, so you must proceed with caution and ensure you use the right tools. To have an easy time and avoid damaging your countertops, follow these steps:

Step 1: Get a wet circular saw.

You can still use the standard circular saw, but a wet saw works best as it produces little dust, thanks to a small tube that drizzles water onto the granite surface as you are cutting. Don’t spend money buying a new saw. Instead, rent one from your local store.

Other than the circular saw, also get a dust mask, ear protection, and safety goggles to protect yourself when working.

To simplify cleanup, cut the slabs outdoors.

Step 2: Position the granite slab on a sturdy work surface

After getting the saw, your next move should be to position the slab on a sturdy surface using C-clamps and other tools. For best results, attach one C-clamp every couple of feet along the sides of the slab to secure it tightly.

You can also place the slab on a designated workbench but when placing it, ensure you place it on a sturdy surface that won’t shift, such as a sawhorse.

The purpose of securing the pieces with clamps is to reduce vibrations and slab movements, both of which can lead to chipping.

Step 3: Cover the target area with painter’s tape

The purpose of covering the target area with the painter’s tape is to protect the surface and reduce the chipping risk.

The beauty is you don’t have to place the tape precisely on the area. Place two or three strips along the topside in the general area you will be cutting, and you will be alright.

As you are placing the tape, also measure the area carefully and make a cutline on top of the tape with a marker. Ensure you measure the area twice to ensure you are marking the right one. The last thing you want is cutting the wrong area and damaging your precious slab.

Step 4: Cut the stone

Once everything is in place, it’s now time to cut the granite. To reduce the chances of chipping as you are cutting, make a short “back-cut” about 2 inches long from the end of the cutline.

Step 5: Reposition the saw at the opposite end of the slab

After making the back-cut, reposition the circular saw and place it at the opposite end of the slab, then slowly cut along the cutline. As you are cutting, focus on keeping the blade precisely aligned on the cutline and maintain steady pressure on the saw without forcing it. Just let the blade do its work.

Step 6: Suck up the granite dust

After completing the cut, peel the tape from the granite, and if you did the right thing, you should have a smooth, clean-cut. It’s recommended you allow the granite dust to settle but if you are in a hurry, suck up the dust with a vacuum.

If you used a wet-cut saw, you would have a thin wet slurry on the slab. Wipe it off the slab using a damp rag.

Don’t want to get your hands dirty? Hire an expert

While you can cut the granite slab by yourself, you need to use the right tools and follow the right procedure to avoid chipping or cutting the slab the wrong way. If you feel you aren’t up to the task, hire a granite contractor Rockville to do it for you.

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Pool Builders: 5 Tips On How To Maintain A Pool

pool builders

Hiring the best pool builders and constructing the best pool isn’t enough. You have to take good care of the pool to keep it refreshing, inviting, and sparkling. Wondering how to go about it? Here are tips on how to maintain a pool:

Get rid of debris

At least two or three times a week, skim the surface of your pool for floating debris and dispose of the collected debris.

Most modern pools have a skimmer basket at the end of the pool whose primary job is to skim the pool surface before debris and contaminants get heavy, saturated, and float to the bottom of the water.

To keep the skimmer working in top condition all the time, empty it regularly. To do it you need to open the skimmer panel, remove the skimmer basket and dump out its contents. For effective working, ensure the basket is near clear of debris at all times.

Vacuum the pool

Why do you vacuum your house? To clean it, right? You also should vacuum your pool to keep it clean and in top condition all the time. Begin with preparing the pool wall and water surface for vacuuming.

Begin with skimming the water with a pool skimmer then use a pool brush to brush the walls.

You should then set up the vacuum cleaner for cleaning. To do this, place the vacuum head and pole in the pool to fill with water. Hold the open end of the hose over one of the return jets to blow out all of the air in the hose.

When bubbles stop, turn off the filter, keeping the end of the hose underwater.

For proper cleaning, an average pool requires 30 minutes of vacuuming. When vacuuming the pool, move slowly across the water in overlapping parallel lines like you are mowing the lawn.

If your pool is too wide for one pass, vacuum half of it at a time. Once you are done, turn off the filter, disconnect the hose and turn the system back to filter.

Backwash your pool filter

Backwashing keeps the pool filter clean by flushing out built-up debris. When you are backwashing, the water is reversed through the filter out of the waste line and drain.

To backwash your filters, begin with preparing the hose and filter. Turn off the filter and set the multiport valve. You should then connect the backwash hose to the waste port then run the hose to a safe waste site.

Turn the filter on and let it run for three to five minutes or until the water is clear and in the glass sight. You should then shut off the system and turn the valve to rinse. Run the system for 30 seconds to allow water to run through the filter and reset the filter element.

After 30 seconds, turn off the system.

Once you are done, turn the system to FILTER and turn it on. When water comes out of the valve, close it and by doing this, the filter cycle will have started. You should keep a close eye of the PSI pressure reading to tell the next time you need to backwash again.

Limit pool shocking

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to shock your pool regularly to keep the water clear and clean, especially if you have an ozone system.

If you don’t have the ozone system, use chlorine-based shock to eliminate animal, bird, and human defecation that can turn into algae food.

When shocking your pool, do it at night when there is no one in the pool and there is no sun to degrade the effectiveness of the chlorine-based shock.

Maintain optimal pH levels

You should keep your pool pH between 7.2 and 7.8 with 7.4 being the optimal level. To ensure your pool is at the right pH levels, make a habit of regularly testing it. Unlike years ago when you had to hire professionals to do the testing, now you simply need to buy test strips and kits and you will easily tell whether your pool is at the right pH.

Many people rush to add chlorine when their pH is not optimal but don’t do this. There are plenty of ways to control the pH without using a lot of chlorine. Consult pool contractors Long Island or pool maintenance experts if you don’t know how to go about it.

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Does Turning Your AC On And Off Cost More? HVAC Contractors Answer

HVAC contractors

No homeowner wants to open their electricity bill at the end of the month and cringe due to the enormous figure—everyone wants to see a small number, so you will often hear homeowners asking, does turning your AC on and off cost more?

According to HVAC contractors, to answer this question, you need to understand how air conditioners work.

How Air conditioners work

When you keep the air conditioner working all the time, you don’t use the air conditioner efficiently, which leads to a high energy bill. Since the air conditioner is running all the time, it has to keep fluctuating to accommodate the temperature changes, which, as you might guess, is energy taxing.

An air conditioner that runs all the time also has a short lifespan. To answer your question, no, it doesn’t cost you more to keep turning your AC on and off. You save more money doing it.

When you aren’t in the house, turn the appliance off, and this will not only see you spending less money to cool your house, you also will have a long-lasting appliance.

Taking advantage of a programmable thermostat

It’s a no brainer that switching off the AC when you aren’t in the house saves you energy, but no one wants to come home to a hot and humid house at the end of the day. Is there?

To solve this issue, you should invest in a programmable thermostat. The thermostat allows you to program the air conditioner so you can set the temperature at different times throughout the day. For example, if you aren’t at home most of the day, set the thermostat to increase the temperature while you are away.

You should then program the thermostat to return to your comfortable temperature at the time when you are about to get home.

Other ways to reduce your cooling bill

Other than turning your AC on and off, there are plenty of other ways you can reduce your cooling bill. Some of these ways include:

Tune-up your appliance

There is no way a neglected appliance will function optimally, so to ensure your appliance is working efficiently, tune it up. At least once a year, hire an AC technician to inspect your air conditioner and fix any faulty area present.

To save money on repair professionals, undertake your tune-ups when there is little demand for the repair professionals.

Make use of fans

Did you know fans consume little energy than air conditioners? When it’s hot, don’t put on your air conditioner at full blast as it will consume a lot of energy. Instead, make use of fans. Fans are an excellent way to keep the house cooler and push warm air out of the house.

Fans also come in handy at helping you circulate cold air from the air conditioner to the rest of the house. If you haven’t installed them, get a few from your local store. When making the purchase, buy those with lower current usage. You don’t want units that will consume more energy than you are looking to save.

Keep curtains closed

When the sun is up, keep the window curtains closed so that the sun rays don’t get into the house and heat it. You also should keep the windows and doors closed.

At night, when the temperatures are low outside, open the windows, so you allow the cool breeze into the house, so you don’t have to lower the AC settings to a larger magnitude.

Air conditioning service repair Vienna professionals recommend using a portable air conditioner that allows you to lower the temperature in the room you are using. Since you aren’t cooling the entire house, you save a lot of energy.

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