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Wednesday, November 6th, 2013

Every autumn, you begin preparing for the cold months ahead. You take out our snow boots, bring in the firewood, and buy loads of hot cocoa. But what about your house? Is it prepared for the winter? Winterizing your home can lower heating bills and prevent property damage. Here are 5 ways to winterize your home!

5 Ways to Winterize Your Home

1. Check your Chimney: This winter you may be planning to curl up next to the warm fireplace and watch movies. Before bringing in that firewood, get your chimney inspected. Foreign objects (birds, tennis balls, etc.) commonly end up in chimneys.

Buy a protective screen cap for your chimney to keep out foreign objects and rain that can damage fireplace walls. To lower your heating bills, close the chimney damper on the fireplace when it is not in use.

2. Clean your Gutters: To prevent ice dams that back up water and lead to water leakages in the house, clean your gutters. Fallen leaves and other debris can clog gutters and cause leakages. Look for leaks and misaligned pipes when cleaning gutters with a hose.

3. Reverse your fans: During the summer, fans push the hot air upward, leaving you in a cool, comfortable room. For the winter, reverse your fans so hot air is pushed downward. Reversing your fans can warm your house without growing heating bills.

4. Seal your Ducts: Your home’s duct system connects tubes in the walls, floors, and ceilings. It carries heated air to vents in each room. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that ducts that leak heated air can add hundreds of dollars a year to heating and cooling bills. If you’re installing new ducts, make sure it comes with insulation.

5. Stop Leaks: Closing leaks can lower your heating bills and keep insects from crawling around your house. Buy door sweeps to close spaces under exterior doors. Buy caulk or caulk substitutes to close up drafty spots in recessed lighting, electrical outlets, etc. Use weather resistant caulk for the outside of your house.

Need More Winterizing Help?

Unsure if you can winterize your house on your own? Don’t freak out! There are plenty of local professionals who want to help. Use TalkLocal to contact a local professional who can winterize your house, lower your heating bills, and prevent property damage!

Tags: cold weather preparation, winterize
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

Central Heating Repairs

Wednesday, November 6th, 2013

If your central heating system doesn’t work as it should, not only will your heating costs increase, you can also run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. How would you know if you need central heating repairs? You can perform some simple maintenance checks to determine if your system needs repair, and to figure out if you can do job yourself or need help from a professional.

Circuit Breaker

Open the main circuit breaker box. Thoroughly inspect all the main fuses that connect your heating system to the circuit. If any fuse has been tripped, simply turn it back on. Replace any blown fuse immediately.

Thermostat (Electric Heating System)

Unscrew the cover panel to locate the thermostats. Most heating systems have two – one each at the top and lower ends of the water tank. Close to the top thermostat is a high-limit switch that is designed to turn off if the system gets too hot. If this switch has tripped, just flip it back on.

Test the electrical current in all wiring connected to the thermostats by using a multimeter. Call an electrician if the system isn’t getting any power. A malfunctioning thermostat is a common reason for central heating repairs and may need to be recalibrated by a professional.

Water Pump

A faulty water pump can also cause problems with your central heating system and will need to be replaced. Depending on the particular style of your heating system, you will find shut-off valves located on either side of the pump. Close the valves to kill water flow to the pump. Before releasing the valves, place a cloth below the pump to catch water drips.

Ductwork

Blocked ductwork needs to be cleaned because it can cause overheating or reduce the efficiency of your central heating system. Check if there is sufficient air flowing from each of the vents in your home. Perform a visual check inside the vent to see if there is excessive dust buildup, if so, have the ducts professionally cleaned.

Pilot Light

Check that the pilot light is on. You should see a strong blue light. However, a weak, yellow light is a strong indication of problems that can lead to high carbon monoxide levels in your home.

Think You Need Central Heating Repairs?

If you start noticing problems with your central heating system, you can generally troubleshoot issues and have an expert perform central heating repairs. TalkLocal specializes in finding the right service professional for you. Our service is free and quick. Use TalkLocal to get in touch with a qualified contractor, and arrange your central heating repairs in just minutes.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

Build a Home Theater: Sound and Wiring

Wednesday, November 6th, 2013

When you build a home theater, it’s important to pay attention to the sound system to complete the whole audio and visual experience. There are a lot of different components to think about and set up when you build a home theater. Sound systems, wiring, and projectors are also covered here because they make up some of the most crucial parts of your system.

Wiring and Projectors

Aside from dimmer switches, lighting, and other conveniences, wiring and projectors should be a main concern when you build a home theater. Wherever you have long wires, you should keep them in check with cable tidies. You should also label all cables clearly so you know which goes where.

With regard to the projector, choose a good brand and select the right model to suit your wall or screen size. If the projector is too small, you won’t enjoy the viewing experience. If it’s too large, it will overwhelm. So calculate the size of your wall and choose your projector carefully.

Sound Systems and In-Wall Wiring

If there’s one thing you should invest in aside from your TV or projector, it’s your sound system. A good sound system won’t be too loud or too quiet. It should surround your room with good quality sound to make the audience feel as if they are in a theater.

In-wall wiring is something to be handled with caution. It’s best to call an electrician to fit your in-wall wiring. To be safe in the home, in-wall wiring should be well-insulated and kept out of reach of children and drafts.

Need an Electrician?

Contact TalkLocal today and let us help you locate an electrician in your area who will help you with your needs! We will connect you with up to three professionals in your area in just minutes.

Posted in Electricians | No Comments »

Smart Car MPG

Wednesday, November 6th, 2013

The Smart car is the brainchild of inventor Nicolas Hayek. Smart cars are designed to be efficient in fuel consumption, small, easy to park, and environmentally friendly. In 1994, Hayek partnered up with Daimler-Benz to make Smart cars. However, initial sales were slower than hoped, so Hayek pulled out of the venture.

Since Smart cars use less fuel, higher fuel prices have driven up sales for Smart cars. “Smart” actually stands for “Swatch, Mercedes and art.” As of today, Smart cars are part of the Mercedes cars division.

Smart Car MPG

Smart car MPG varies considerably depending on where and how you drive these tiny vehicles. The original model, “ForTwo,” is about half the size of a conventional car and is easier to park on busy city streets.

The US Environmental Protection Agency has a rating of 31 miles per gallon for the Smart car when driven in cities and 41 miles per gallon when driven on the highway. However, actual users tend to report lower Smart car MPG results. This, of course, varies on the type of driving that you do and the speed at which you drive.

The MPG of Smart cars is something that should beckon you to buy one, and the cars’ average prices are generally lower. They are fuel efficient and great for city living. Being less than 8 feet in length, they are very easy to park, although they seat fewer people than conventional cars.

However, these cars are made of good quality materials and are sturdy and durable. Car and motorcycle MPG ratings depend both on the manufacturer’s rating and the US Environmental Protection Agency’s rating. Actual use, however, may differ considerably from this.

Need Help Deciding?

Contact TalkLocal today and let us help you get in contact with a Smart car dealer within minutes of placing your call!

Posted in Auto Repair | No Comments »

Fixing Roof Shingle Damage

Tuesday, November 5th, 2013

Roof shingle damage is a common concern among homeowners. Damaged shingles can be caused by storms, hail, hurricanes, and other weather conditions that can potentially harm otherwise good shingles.

Damaged shingles don’t always need the repair of a professional if you know how to fix them. However, for more advanced damage, you may need professional help. If you opt for professional help, the price of the work may will depend on the size of your roof.

Replace the Broken or Missing Shingle

With any luck, the last time your roof was repaired, there were shingles that were left behind by the repairmen. If not, find the closest alternative. Roof shingle damage is not hard to repair: secure each shingle with four nails. You will need a pry bar to remove the old shingle from the row of shingles and then a hammer to secure the new shingle in place.

Fix Curled Corners

As shingles start to age, their corners tend to curl. If you notice curling at the corners, glue down the curling corners to avoid the inevitable breakage. Using a roofing sealant, put a daub of glue underneath the curling edges. Use a brick to weigh down the edges for 24 hours until the sealant dries.

Repair Cracked Shingles

If a shingle is cracked, it doesn’t mean that you have to replace it. You just have to seal the crack using a sealant. You can do this by applying a thick amount of sealant under the crack. Press down on the crack and apply a second coat of sealant on top of the crack. Using a putty knife, spread the sealant.

Using these techniques will not cost you a lot of money and will save you the hassle of having contractors around your home.

But if You Think You Need Help…

TalkLocal is here to help you find a professional that can assist you with all your roofing needs. Contact us today to be connected with up to three roofing professionals in your area in just minutes.

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Simple Drinks for New Years

Tuesday, November 5th, 2013

Whether you’re thinking about throwing a party for New Year’s Eve or just having a small family reunion, it’s always good to plan things ahead. Drinks are an important aspect when it comes to planning the night between years, so if you’re not exactly sure what to serve your guests, here are some simple drinks for New Years that you can’t go wrong with.

These drinks are easy to make, go well at a festive moment like this, and most importantly, they’re fun to try as they allow you to experiment and surprise your guests.

While some will prefer straight Champagne, you can entice your friends or family with some irresistible Champagne cocktails that are ideal for this annual celebration. The recipes are pretty simple, and you will definitely win over your guests with the resulting drink. How do you prepare your simple drinks for New Years? Here are some ideas.

Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients:

Ruby port (3/4 ounces)

Orange juice (3/4 ounces)

Brandy (1/4 ounces)

Champagne (4 ounces)

Preparation:

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, and add the port, orange juice, and brandy. Shake it well, and pour into a Champagne flute, then top with bubbly Champagne. It’s so simple, in less than three minutes, you’ll have a delightful drink to enchant your guests’ palates.

Champagne Punch

There are plenty of Champagne Punch recipes, and the following is one of the simplest. The fruity taste is its dominant characteristic, which makes it a light and zesty drink. By following the preparation instructions below you’ll have a whole Champagne punch bowl in no more than ten minutes.

Ingredients:

Fruit punch, frozen and thawed, but only partially (12 ounces)

Frozen strawberries (10 ounces)

Orange juice (2/3 cup)

Lemon juice (2 table spoons)

Ginger ale (24 ounces)

Water (3 cups)

Preparation:

Take an ice ring and place it in a punch bowl, then add the strawberries and fruit punch, pouring the water, lemon juice, and orange juice over them. Now, stir the mix to dissolve it. Finally, add ginger ale and Champagne, and your New Year’s Eve punch is ready.

These are just two of the simplest Champagne drinks that you could try for New Year’s. Feel free to experiment and try other ingredients with these basic recipes. Experimentation is fun, and you might get some surprisingly delicious results!

Looking for Party Planners?

If you’re throwing a bigger party for New Year’s or any other occasion, and need help planning it, TalkLocal can give you a hand by connecting you with local professionals who can assist you. Help is only a few clicks away, and it’s free.

Tags: alcohol, cocktails, new years
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Commercial Heating Repairs

Tuesday, November 5th, 2013

Owners of commercial buildings don’t have the time, the energy, or the skills required to deal with common problems impacting the functionality of their heating equipment. This is the main reason why they choose to call a respectable technician, ensuring high-quality, affordable, and efficient commercial heating repairs. Keep reading to find out how you could identify the best specialist in your area.

Get the Best Answer to Your Heating Problem in No Time

A defective heating system can make your employees feel uncomfortable and even put their health and welfare on the line. That’s why commercial heating repairs should be considered a priority, especially when you’re dealing with delicate heating equipment issues. Incorrect sizing, thermostat malfunctions and noisy operations are all problems requiring a specialist.

Start by looking for a reputable professional with experience in commercial heating repairs, who can fix a wide range of heating and cooling appliances to your complete satisfaction. The best one will always offer you affordable installations, repairs, maintenance programs, energy-efficiency upgrade,s and free expert guidance throughout the process.

How Much Will These Repairs Cost Me?

It all depends on the nature and extent of your heating problem. For instance, if your furnace is giving you a hard time, you may need to replace its blower motor; this costs anywhere from $450 to $675.

To replace a flame igniter, you may have to take up to $375 out of your pocket, while the installation of a new fan control board shouldn’t cost you more than $650. One thing’s for sure: heating failures shouldn’t impact the profitability of your business.

Pay the right price for professional repairs and scheduled maintenance routines to prevent issues that might result in lost time and money in the future. A trustworthy company will always offer you an up-front, no-obligation, free estimate, so don’t hesitate to ask for help as soon as possible.

Contact a Heating Specialist

If your faulty heating equipment is your main source of frustration, address this problem in an effective manner by consulting a certified, well-trained professional, specialized in commercial heating systems. Find the best one in your area with TalkLocal, an excellent, free service designed to connect you with the best professionals in your area.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

Build a Home Theater: Set the Mood

Tuesday, November 5th, 2013

Everybody loves a home theater. It’s a great way to enjoy watching TV and movies with the family in great sound and on a wonderful screen. However, you should also think about how the lighting and ventilation in your home theater can be set up to complete the mood. To build a home theater that’s fully functional and enjoyable, you have to pay attention to the smallest details.

Lighting

When setting up lighting for your home theater, don’t just use regular light bulbs or bulbs that are too bright. Ideally, the lights should be mellow. Moreover, they shouldn’t be white, but yellow to create an ambient mood for viewing. Lighting that is too bright will destroy your viewing experience because it contrasts harshly with your TV. Lights that are soft and mellow set a relaxed mood for the best viewing experience.

Dimmer Switches

Something else you can install when you build a home theater is a dimmer switch. This will allow you to adjust the lighting and get the mood just right. Install proper dimmer switches for your lighting system and you won’t be disappointed. You can either install a single dimmer to control all your lights, or a bank of them so you can create zones of lighting.

Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans move the air around to provide good ventilation for your home theater. Install a ceiling fan in the center of the room where it will circulate air most effectively. You should install the right sized fan for the room. If it’s too small, it won’t do the job. If too big, it will end up making your home theater drafty.

Need Help with Your Home Theater System?

Contact Seva Call today and let us help locate a professional near you to help with the mood of your home theater system. We will connect you with up to three professionals in just minutes.

Posted in Electricians | No Comments »

Snow Tires in Summer

Tuesday, November 5th, 2013

When it comes to changing their tires, some inexperienced drivers consider this costly annual ritual unnecessary. In this context, you might be wondering: How many sets of tires do I really need? Could I use snow tires in summer, or would I be making a huge mistake? Keep reading to find out, and don’t forget that a competent snow removal expert could easily offer you the expert guidance you may need when it comes to purchasing and installing the best winter tires.

Could I Use the Same Set of Tires Year-Round?

Usually, drivers are advised to invest in two sets of tires: one for the hot season and one for the cold season. There is one exception worth mentioning: those who live in areas that are not impacted by extreme temperatures brought by harsh winters and torrid summers can very well use the same pair of tires year-round.

However, keep in mind that if you were to use only one set of winter tires during the entire year, you would definitely have to replace them sooner than expected. Moreover, in this circumstance, you would also impact your vehicle’s stopping ability during summer, spring and autumn.

Are All-Season Tires a Suitable Alternative for All Drivers?

Numerous drivers erroneously think that all-season tires are a cost-effective alternative that they could rely on year-round. Unfortunately, this type of tire is not suitable for people driving in regions affected by heavy snowfalls. All-season tires are an option worth considering only if you want to profit from superior performance while driving in the rain or sleet or on roads covered in mud.

The truth is that nothing can replace high-quality snow tires during the cold season, especially if and when the driver is dealing with difficult driving conditions. Most summer tires become stiff in harsh environments with negative temperatures, while winter tires are manufactured from special compounds designed to guarantee an excellent performance at lower temperatures.

Ask an expert

Yes, you could use snow tires in summer, but the question is: Is it really worth it? When in doubt, contact a snow removal expert and discuss your options. Find the best professionals in your area by counting on TalkLocal, your one and only provider of fresh information enabling you to find great answers to all your daily questions.

Posted in Snow Removal | No Comments »

Nissan LEAF Electric Car Overview

Monday, November 4th, 2013

The Nissan LEAF electric car is a hatchback car that was introduced in 2010 to the USA and Japan. The US Environmental Protection Agency stated that the Nissan LEAF’s fuel economy is 115 miles to the gallon, which makes it very economical. The newer version of the Nissan LEAF electric car, the 2013 model, has a rating of 200 miles per gallon. The Nissan LEAF electric car is now sold in 17 countries across the European continent.

Best-Selling Electric Car

The Nissan LEAF electric car is the world’s best-selling electric car, with over 50,000 units sold as of February 2013. This is not surprising, since you won’t run in to power steering pump noise using this car due to its unique mechanisms. The leading markets for the Nissan LEAF are the United States and Europe, because it is the best highway-capable car with electric propulsion.

Environmentally-Friendly

Since it is an electric car, the Nissan LEAF produces no greenhouse emissions and no tailpipe pollution. It also reduces dependence on petroleum. It has won many awards due to its environmental benefits. Among these awards are the 2010 Green Car Vision Award, 2011 World Car of the Year and 2011 European Car of the Year.

The average prices of a car nowadays depend on the car’s capabilities and the technology that comes with the car. With a car like the Nissan LEAF, the money will be well-spent because of the advanced technology and the savings from not having to buy petroleum. The Nissan LEAF is truly a remarkable car that you should consider buying because of the many features it offers.

Cars powered by electricity or with hybrid electric/gasoline engines are finally beginning to come into their own. The LEAF is a prime example of the changing trends among car buyers.

Need Help Deciding?

Contact TalkLocal today and let us put you in touch with someone to help you decide if a Nissan LEAF electric car is for you. We’ll connect you with up to three professionals in just minutes.

Posted in Auto Repair | No Comments »

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