Archive for the ‘services’ Category

 

Auto AC Heating Repair and Maintenance

Tuesday, October 29th, 2013

Auto AC Heating Repair and Maintenance - Auto Repair

When you’re out driving in the concrete jungle on a hot day, nothing beats the cool comfort of chilled air blasting from your car’s A/C system. But did you know that the cold air coming from the vent originates as hot air? A complex process is involved in removing the heat. This method of generating conditioned air for your car involves several components that must all be in good condition, especially if you want to avoid paying out for auto AC heating repair.

Auto AC components, such as seals and fittings do wear and can even become loose over time. This eventually leads to refrigerant leakage, which affects the comfort inside the car and may also cause damage to other auto-components such as the evaporator or compressor. You can save money and time on auto AC heating repair by detecting issues early on.

Regularly checking your car and scheduling it for maintenance is a great way to extend the life of your car’s engine and its components to avoid unnecessary auto AC heating repair. A proper cooling system inspection involves the following:

1.      Check if the water pump is in working condition.

2.      Inspect the radiator for leaks or corrosion.

3.      Ensure there is adequate coolant. Remember, NEVER remove or open the pressure cap while the engine is still hot.

4.      Check for any leaks in the hoses and connections. Tighten any loose clamps.

5.      Look at the condition of the radiator’s pressure cap. If the rubber gasket is already damaged, replace it.

6.      If the engine gets too cool, you probably have a faulty thermostat that may need replacing.

7.      Look at the condition of the hoses. Replace any hose with cracks or other signs of deterioration.

8.      Check heater hoses and make sure they are not leaking or cracked and that there’s no rotting rubber. Faulty clamps should be replaced.

9.      Inspect belts for any tension or wear. Usually they last up to seven years. Cracked or frayed belts need to be replaced.

If you notice your car’s air conditioning is not as effective as it used to be, that’s a straightforward sign that you should have it inspected. Your car may well be low on Freon, which is a good indicator that something’s wrong with the system. The problem may just be a small leak or you could need serious auto AC heating repair.

Have a professional auto repair technician take a look at it immediately. Use SevaCall to locate auto repair professionals you can trust.

Repair Contingency Clause

Tuesday, October 29th, 2013

Repair Contingency Clause - Real Estate

A repair contingency clause is a part of the agreement between the buyer and the seller of a real estate property. They agree that if repairs are found to be necessary in the home, the buyer can opt to pull out of the sale or can have the seller pay for the repair.

This is a very important clause, especially when shopping for a house that has not been used for a long time. The buyer may not be fully aware at the time of purchase of all the repairs necessary. A repair contingency clause will help to give the buyer peace of mind when purchasing the property.

A contingency is protection against something that is not certain to happen, but can have negative consequences if it does. That’s why this clause is important. When buying a new home, clauses are important to protect the buyer from unwanted expenses.

Importance of a Repair Contingency Clause

Unless you are building your own home or buying a brand new one, this clause is important to protect you from surprises. Repairs to homes that had previous occupants may be very expensive and the seller may not choose to reveal all the flaws of the property at the time of the sale.

This is especially true when buying a foreclosed home, where the previous occupants may not have had the means to make the repairs themselves.

A repair contingency clause will protect the buyer from repair costs that may add up to thousands of dollars. Thus, it’s essential to have this clause in the contract, since it will save you a lot of trouble when purchasing a new home.

Need Real Estate Advice?

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Vinyl Windows Installation Benefits

Tuesday, October 29th, 2013

Vinyl Windows Installation Benefits - Heating and Cooling

Are you eager to invest in a simple, energy-saving home improvement project enabling you to turn your home into a warm, welcoming space and reduce your utility bills at the same time? In this case, vinyl windows installation can be an excellent idea, allowing you to attain your goals in no time.

Why Should I install Vinyl Windows?

The range of benefits provided by modern, appealing vinyl windows is extensive. Any heating and cooling expert will tell you that these energy-efficient items can reduce heat loss and withstand temperature stresses, especially if their frames have heat-welded, resistant joints.

Moreover, they are made from premium polyvinyl chloride and do not require painting; not to mention that any dings and scratches present on the window surface would be almost impossible to detect. What’s not to love about maintenance-free windows that look like new for the longest period of time?

Reduce Thermal Transfer

Most windows are considered   “thermal holes” through which you waste up to 30% of the overall energy used to stay cool or warm in your rooms.

A vinyl windows installation will definitely reduce your heating and cooling costs, by decreasing thermal transfer. These windows display a remarkable energy-efficiency and superior heat flow resistance.

This means that heat does not escape through your window; so during the hot season, your rooms will stay cool, and during the winter months, when it’s usually freezing outside, the heat that you pay for will not leave your house. By installing new vinyl windows, you can maintain an ideal temperature inside your home and profit from energy savings.

Save Money and Improve the Curb Appeal of Your Home

Vinyl windows are resistant to burglary attempts, and they reduce exterior noise levels dramatically and beautify your home. If you’re constantly concerned about inflated energy bills and are always sweating or freezing in your house, despite well-functioning heating and cooling systems, think about installing energy-efficient vinyl windows. They can curb the heat transfer and put an end to this unpleasant situation.

Want to Benefit from Vinyl Windows?

Opt for professional vinyl windows installation to obtain the best results. If you need to find an expert in your area, start by consulting TalkLocal, your connection to the best professionals in your area.

How to Get Smoke Out of Clothes

Monday, October 28th, 2013

How to Get Smoke Out of Clothes - Tailors

It’s an annoying fact that sometimes the smell of cigarette smoke gets into our clothes. There are some ways to get smoke out of clothes. The smell of smoke on clothes is not only unpleasant to us, but also to those we come into contact with. Thus, getting the smell of smoke out of clothes is very important. Some clothing materials make it harder to get rid of smoky smells, such as wool sweaters.

Avoidance

Prevention is better than cure, so rather than having  to get smoke out of clothes, avoid places where there is cigarette smoke. However, this strategy is not effective all the time. Thankfully, if you are wearing cold resistant clothing, these types of clothes are more resistant to the smell of smoke. If you are a smoker yourself, or live with one, take some measures to reduce the cigarette smoke odor in your home. This helps to avoid your clothes smelling smoky in the first place.

Spray Often

If you have cologne or air freshener on hand, spray often when in the presence of smoke. This will get smoke out of clothes manufactured in cotton or linen. It will also help decrease the smell once you are away from its source.

Wash

1. Place your clothes in the washing machine and set the temperature to the hottest that the clothing manufacturer allows.

2. Add a cup of baking soda and one cup of white vinegar.

3. Soak your clothing for at least an hour.

4. Then, add detergent and wash your clothes as usual. There is no need to drain out the original water that you used to soak your clothes in.

5. However, if your clothes are not washable, you can hang them outside to try and disperse the smell. Or, you can take them to a professional cleaner instead.

Need Help Getting the Smell of Smoke Out?

Contact TalkLocal today, and we can help you find a professional cleaner who will remove the smell of smoke from your clothes in no time!

Deadbolt Repair Cost

Monday, October 28th, 2013

Deadbolt Repair Cost - Locksmiths

Deadbolt repair cost is not particularly cheap. It depends on the kind of deadbolt that you have installed. If you installed a cheaper variety in the first place, the cost of any repairs may be higher. The services offered may also depend on where you live and the time it will take professionals to repair the deadbolt.

Deadbolts are an important security feature of your home. There are three grades of deadbolt, and you should not settle for anything less than Grade 2 deadbolts. Grade 3 deadbolts are easy to pry open and are not secure against criminals.

Average Deadbolt Repair Cost

Generally, locksmiths charge anything from $35 to $50 per service call. They also charge $15 to $35 to install a new deadbolt. This will all depend on whether the door and jamb is already bored and cored. If so, the locksmith’s job will be easier, so the cost will consequently be lower.

If the task is more complicated and takes more time, you could be looking at $50 to $75 for the service call and $50 to $75 per hour for the time that it takes to install the new deadbolt.

In general, if you bought the cheaper deadbolt, the repair will probably take more time, meaning more expense. In total, it may cost you about $100 for the deadbolt repair cost. Although this is money well spent, as home security should always be a priority, buying top quality deadbolts in the first place can save you money over the longer term.

Additionally, if you live in a remote area, the charges may be higher due to steeper service fees. In any case, get estimates from a few locksmiths before making any decisions.

Need a Locksmith?

Contact TalkLocal today and we can connect you with up to three locksmith within minutes! It is our priority to assist you with your every service need, so call us today!

Storm Window Replacement

Monday, October 28th, 2013

Storm Window Replacement - Window Replacement

High-quality storm window replacement represents an excellent investment, because storm windows deliver considerable savings and improve the energy-efficiency of your home. They also protect your primary windows, reduce exterior noise levels, provide additional insulation, and boost the curb appeal of your property.

Storm windows are durable and require very little maintenance, aside from some simple repairs once in a while. But what happens when you neglect minor issues, or otherwise end up with more serious repair requirements? In this case, a storm window replacement project can become a real necessity.

Should I Replace or Repair My Old Storm Windows?

Most homeowners choose a quick fix every time they are forced to deal with a defective storm window. Minor problems, like a loose window or deteriorated glazing, can be easily addressed by the homeowner. However, if your storm windows are in a condition beyond repair, then storm window replacement may be your one and only option.

All in all, keep in mind that experts advise us to replace all of our windows every 25 years or so. Older storm windows are less efficient when it comes to preserving an ideal temperature inside our homes.

Major Problems Forcing You to Replace Your Storm Windows

Almost any type of storm window can be fixed, but not all repair projects are worth your time and money; some of them may actually fail to deliver anything but short term results. Here are a few major problems that will eventually compel you to consider storm window replacement:

1) Rot: Once your storm windows start to rot, it becomes difficult for you to restore them. When you’re dealing with rotten wood, the best thing you can do is to order new storm windows.

2) Hard-to-find spare parts: If you have an older model of storm window, you might waste a lot of time trying to find spare parts online or in hardware stores.

3) Rusty or filthy crank mechanisms: If your storm windows display rusty or excessively dirty crank mechanisms, it might be a little too late for you to try lubricating them. Take the easy way out and buy energy-efficient, modern substitutes.

Ask an Expert

Should you replace or fix your storm windows? Only an expert can provide the best answer to your question. Contact the best ones in your area by consulting TalkLocal, your #1 connection to the best professionals in your area.

DirecTV Remote Buttons Not Working

Monday, October 28th, 2013

DirecTV Remote Buttons Not Working - TV Repair

Remote control issues are always frustrating and put our nerves and patience to the test every single time we are forced to handle them. If the buttons on your DirecTV remote control are unresponsive, you can either follow a few basic troubleshooting steps and try to solve this problem on your own, or you could contact a TV repair expert and save time, money, and a lot of energy in the process.

The Basic Troubleshooting Steps

DirecTV remote buttons not working? In some cases, you may actually manage to fix this problem without any help from an expert.

1. Start by gently cleaning your receiver and the upper side of your remote control with a soft, dry cloth.

2. Still bothered by the same problem? If so, all you have to do is to reset the remote and restore its default settings. Take the batteries out then simply press the #1 button on the remote for ten seconds.

3. Afterwards, push the select and mute buttons simultaneously. A green light should flash twice.

4. After completing this phase, press 9,8,1 and wait for the green light to flash 4 times in a row.

If you’ve followed all the instructions and you still haven’t managed to see the green light flash, this means that you may need to get a brand new DirecTV remote control.

Troubleshoot Your Remote by Contacting a DirecTV Agent

If you opted for DirecTV’s Protection Plan, feel free to call and troubleshot the remote over the phone with help from an agent. If the problem persists, DirecTV will offer you a new, cost-free remote, as long as you benefit from the extended guarantee the company offers. Otherwise you will have to invest to purchase a new remote control. You can purchase a new DirecTV remote from Amazon and have it shipped overnight starting at $5.99.

Ask an Expert

DirecTV remote buttons not working still? Take the easy way out and contact a TV repair expert. Identify the best ones with TalkLocal, a free service to help you meet skilled, trustworthy professionals offering affordable services in you area, when you need them most.

Three Tips for Using HVAC Equipment Size Finder

Monday, October 28th, 2013

Three Tips for Using HVAC Equipment Size Finder - Heating and Cooling

HVAC equipment size finder calculators can be found all over the net. While many people view these calculations as accurate, recent studies have shown that they aren’t as accurate as they seem.

While HVAC system types do have some bearing as to the size that you should consider getting, it is worthwhile to consider that the classic rule of thumb that “x number of square feet per ton” no longer holds true. This is because homes have become more modern, and insulation systems have become better over the years.

1.     Put Those Thumbs Away

The classic rule of thumb does not hold true anymore. Modern homes with better insulation systems, more windows, and better duct systems need smaller HVAC loads. Their heating and cooling loads are also smaller.

2.     Get The Right Information Right Away

While it may seem virtually impossible to calculate the exact size of the HVAC system that you need for your home during the blueprinting process, a useful exercise may be to walk through a similar home and inspect it. Remember, though, small details make a huge difference in houses. HVAC systems are a great way to save energy with home improvements.

3.     When in Doubt, Test

If you are having doubts about the size of the HVAC system that you need, you can test the system at a similarly sized and similarly insulated house. Filtration tests can be done using blower tests. You can drill a hole through the wall and drop in a camera probe to test the insulation.

While there are many HVAC equipment size finders online that will tell you the type and size of HVAC system that you need for your home, they may be inaccurate because they do not take into account the specifics of your home. Call an expert for professional advice.

Ready for Help?

Contact TalkLocal today and let us help you find an HVAC expert near your area to help you find the right sized HVAC equipment for your home!

Replace Car Brake Pads

Friday, October 25th, 2013

Replace Car Brake Pads - Auto Repair

Every once in a while, you have to invest in basic, mandatory auto maintenance projects to keep your car looking and running like new. Before giving the green light to an extreme makeover, focus on the safety systems that guarantee a smooth ride and prevent traffic accidents.

Fully functional brakes help you stop or slow down your automobile, but defective brakes represent a major life-threatening problem, which should be addressed as soon as possible. Keep reading to find out how to replace car brake pads on your own or with help from a good mechanic.

Replacing Car Brake Pads on Your Own

In time, brake pads wear off and lose their ability to slow down or to stop a vehicle. Noisy brakes are an important sign, telling you that you should replace your car brake pads immediately. The process is relatively simple and time-efficient.

1. Start by lifting up your automobile and securing it properly by using jack stands.

2. Unscrew the car’s lug nuts and then remove its wheel and tire. After completing this phase, you’ll be able to take a closer look at the brake pads, brake caliper, and brake rotor.

3. Start by removing the caliper; then carefully inspect the brake rotor. If you notice wide grooves on a large surface, don’t hesitate to resurface or replace the part.

4. Brake pads are usually secured with bolts or pins. Carefully remove the elements holding them in place, slide out your car’s brake pads and analyze them: do they display obvious signs of wear and tear? Old, used pads should be much thinner than brand-new ones.

5. Remember to retract your car’s caliper piston. Afterwards, just place the new brake pads in the empty slots where the old pads used to be, and secure them with bolts and pins.

6. Last, but not least, don’t forget to test the effectiveness of your new brakes.

Ask for help

Want to replace car brake pads the easy way? If so,get connected with the best mechanics in your area by relying on TalkLocal, a free service designed to simplify your daily life.

How to Know the Snow Tire Law in Your Area

Friday, October 25th, 2013

How to Know the Snow Tire Law in Your Area - Snow Removal

Have you ever wondered whether there are laws regarding the use of snow tires? So did we, which is why we found out for you! Keep reading to learn about any laws regarding the use of snow tires.

In the United States

In the United States, there is currently no mandatory law on the use of winter tires. However, in the USA, it is still highly recommended to use snow tires when driving from state to state, especially in the northern parts of the country. The snow tire law in your area varies.

It is widely recognized that this can significantly reduce road accidents. Research shows that 3,300 injuries occur every year because of underinflated tires used during the winter. It is hypothesized that this number would drop to 850 injuries per year if snow tires were used by those driving.

To date, however, no law has been passed concerning the mandatory use of snow tires in the United States. It has been argued by car manufacturers that there is no safer way to drive during winter than to use winter tires because of the slippery and icy conditions when using all-season tires produces less traction. People who use winter tires are generally safer on the road.

In Canada

In Canada, there is mandatory snow tire usage in specific areas.

In British Columbia, winter tires are required to be used by drivers but only in mountainous areas. In Quebec, winter tires are required to be used, but only from Dec. 15 to March 15 every year. In New Brunswick, school buses have to use winter tires during the whole winter. Aside from school buses, other cars are not required by law to use winter tires.

Other places in Canada are not required to use winter tires. As a side note, in Europe, certain countries are mandated by law to use winter tires. Countries such as Finland, Germany, Norway, and Poland are part of this list.

Need to Know More?

Contact Seva Call today to be connected with the right professionals regarding snow tires — or snow removal! We will connect you with up to three professionals in your area in just minutes.