Attic Insulation Types

Monday, January 20th, 2014

Homeowners who want to limit their heat losses and experience considerable energy savings in the long run often choose to insulate their attics. This is a relatively small investment, compared to the benefits that it brings.

Nonetheless, it is important to opt for high-quality materials with a superior R-value, which will keep your house warm in the winter and cold during summer. Keep reading to discover more about some of the most common attic insulation types currently available on the market.

Most Popular Attic Insulation Types

Blown-in insulation, also known as loose-fill insulation, represents one of the most common types of insulating materials. It is made from mineral wool, cellulose, or fiberglass and various other kinds of recycled materials. Its installation process usually requires special tools, so this task is normally conducted by certified professionals. After a certain period of time, this material can lose up to 20% of its effectiveness, as it becomes compact.

Blanket insulation is also another popular choice. The main advantage is that the installation can be completed by do-it-yourself-ers in no time. Moreover, this material represents a mix of fiberglass and natural and synthetic fibers, and it is extremely affordable compared to other premium attic insulation types.

Weatherize Your Home the Right Way

In some cases, apart from purchasing and installing great insulation, you will also need to take care of cracks and energy-wasting gaps that may appear at some points in your attic. To cover them in an effective manner and minimize heat losses, use spray foam, caulking, or plastic sheeting.

Ask an Expert

Looking for more info on the best attic insulation types? In this case, just discuss your options with a heating and cooling expert. Find the right one with Seva Call, your free connection to the best professionals in town.

Tags: Attic Insulation Types
Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

Using Boiling Water Heaters

Monday, January 20th, 2014

Boiling water heaters are wall-mounted appliances that are designed to heat up cold or room temperature water to its boiling temperature. There are different types of boiling water heaters; some are able to supply boiling water throughout the day, and others supply water at a range of temperatures from warm to boiling point.

These appliances are mainly suitable to be used in kitchen sinks, but they are also great for office pantries, canteens, studios, and waiting areas. A boiling water heater is both a time-saving and energy-saving device, making the task of boiling water quicker and more efficient than using a kettle.

A Green Option

Using boiling water heaters is an environmentally friendly way to get boiling water when you need it. Traditionally, water heaters heat up water 24 hours every day, regardless of whether there is a need for hot water or not, which is wasteful of energy. With the use of a boiling water heater, water is only heated on demand, which leads to higher savings.

Heating Capacity

There are different models of boiling water heaters to hold different volumes of water from 2.5 liters to 7.5 liters or more. You can fill up the heater tank to the maximum level or just fill it up partially with how much water you need. The tank has a scale that tells you the volume it currently contains in cups.

Choosing a water heater with a higher capacity allows more hot water to be readily supplied, which will cut the time of recovery significantly.

How They Work

To start heating up water, push the knob to select your desired water temperature from a range beginning with 35° C up to boiling point. Once the heater has reached the chosen temperature, it will automatically switch off. It is also possible to re-boil water immediately.

Installing this Appliance

Installing boiling water heaters is not a simple job. There are various lines that must be linked and connected properly for the appliance to work. The proper power connection is also necessary to ensure effective heating.

Certified plumbing contractors are trained in installing boiling water heaters. So if you’re planning to add this to your kitchen at home or in your workplace, find someone qualified to do the job with Seva Call‘s help. Let us connect you with a service professional in your area in just a few minutes. Try us now!

Tags: Boiling Water Heaters
Posted in Plumbers | No Comments »

Proper Way to Tip Handyman – Tipping Etiquette

Monday, January 20th, 2014

If you cannot consider yourself handy with work tools and capable to tackle small jobs around the house, you probably have found yourself needing the services of a handyman on more than one occasion during the year.

Sometimes, even do-it-yourself enthusiasts prefer to hire a handyman for certain tasks once in a while. When dealing with a handyman, tipping may or may not be the right thing to do depending on certain situations.

The Basic Idea of Tipping

Obviously, there are no policies whatsoever about tipping, which is why opinions vary greatly on the subject. Some say certain service professionals should not get a tip – handyman or what have you – while others continue the practice of tipping to reward a good service given.

Tipping is an act of thanks, so a lot of it depends on personal values, opinion, and character. As with a verbal “thank you,” tipping is given voluntarily, so never feel obligated to tip even when the service is far from worth it.

When Not to Tip the Handyman

There is a general agreement that you can tip the workers but never the business owner. So, if the handyman you hired is an independent contractor with his own business, don’t tip. Tipping is reserved for the employees of the handyman services firm.

If you wish to tip a handyman — which you may want to do when you’ve called one to your own home — the standard rate is around 18 to 20 percent of the total bill. On the other hand, if you live in an apartment or condominium where you pay monthly fees for building maintenance, then it’s fine not to tip the handyman.

Find a Handyman Fast and Easy!

Whatever help you need around your house, if you need it done by a professional handyman quickly, just let Seva Call find the right person for your job. We will connect you with reputable local service professionals within minutes, allowing you to get the right help right now.

Tags: tip handyman
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

How to Maintain Clean Furnace Ducts

Friday, January 17th, 2014

With high-energy costs, it’s always important to make sure that the heating, ventilation, and cooling systems are working at peak efficiency. Maintaining clean furnace ducts is vital to the overall maintenance of your home, which can help save on energy bills as well as prolong the life of your furnace. Also, the less energy that you consume, the smaller your carbon footprint is.

Here is how to maintain clean furnace ducts.

1. Replace furnace filters.

The simplest, most effective thing you can do to keep furnace ducts clean is to change the filters. When the filters are dirty, they restrict the effective passage of air through the unit. Poor airflow forces the motor to work harder, which makes it burn more fuel.

You should replace filters every month, particularly if your area of residence is dusty, you have pets at home, or you’re doing some renovations at home.

2. Inspect ductwork for any leaks.

If you have a forced-air system, it’s easy to access and check a few of the ducts. While the fan is turned on, run a hand or a paper sheet beside the ducts. Feel around the seams and joints for air leaking out. If there are leaks, use heat-resistant tape to seal the seams.

3. Clear vents, forced-air registers, and radiators free of obstructions.

Check that no furniture, rugs, or curtains are blocking furnace vents as well as cold-air returns to allow the air to circulate better. Ensuring that vents and registers are unobstructed will help improve the efficiency of your system, increase room comfort, and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

4. Get professional cleaning service.

It is ideal to have the furnace cleaned and serviced by a qualified professional every year, and the ductwork every three up to five years. With regular service, you can prevent dust buildup on your appliance, and hence, prevent damage to its sensitive components and extend its lifespan.

In addition, ensuring clean furnace ducts will reduce the amount of dust that blows throughout your home and can help the furnace run more efficiently. Between professional duct cleanings, the forced-air registers should be vacuumed occasionally so they will stay clean.

Hire a Furnace Duct Professional

Is it time to have your furnace ducts cleaned? If so, then it’s time for you to use TalkLocal‘s free service to find a quality cleaning service in your area. Send us your request now via phone or here in our website and speak to a reputable professional in no time.

Tags: How to Maintain Clean Furnace Ducts
Posted in Maid Services | No Comments »

Interlocking Teak Deck Tiles

Friday, January 17th, 2014

A deck or patio allows you to spend great moments outdoors without actually leaving your home. Moreover, they can improve the appeal and value of your house. One of the most accessible ways to create an outdoor space where you can relax together with your family and entertain your guests is to use interlocking teak tiles for your deck.

Here are some reasons why interlocking teak deck tiles are a great option for your yard or garden.

Traditional Timber Decks vs. Interlocking Teak Deck Tiles

Traditional timber decks are more difficult to build and involve a lot of planning and construction materials. Besides timber boards, you will need a lot of fasteners, such as nails and screws.

Also, to install a timber deck, you have to use a sub-frame first, onto which the boards are attached. Needless to say, this outdoor flooring option is not only labor-intensive, but also more expensive.

Unlike conventional decks, interlocking teak deck tiles make your task much easier. You don’t need a carpenter to build your deck if you choose to use them because you can do it yourself. Interlocking tiles are specially designed for quick installation.

They are not only practical, but also allow you to create the patterns you want for your deck. All you need to do is measure your space, choose your design, and begin snapping the tiles in the desired pattern.

Affordability

Another advantage of interlocking teak deck tiles is price. They are less expensive than timber boards, which makes them an affordable option for a limited budget. You can install them on top of pavers or concrete covered areas, without having to worry about deck adherence and stability.

Low Maintenance

Wood board decking generally requires regular maintenance to preserve its qualities. This involves oiling, sanding, and refinishing. With interlocking teak deck tiles, maintenance is minimal, because they are treated with special resins to extend their durability and ensure protection.

Looking for a New Deck?

Need help with your landscaping projects? Seva Call can identify up to three local experts for you, and get you connected with them in minutes. Our service is effective and free.

Tags: Interlocking Teak Deck Tiles
Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Buying Talon Towing Suspension Kits

Friday, January 17th, 2014

Talon-USA manufactures the Talon brand of air towing suspension products for American pickup trucks. They cater to customers who use their pickups for hauling or towing, providing them a comfortable, safe, and secure ride.

Talon towing suspension kits are designed and built to be used as a complete system to offer a superior ride, so they are sold as a ready-to-install package for around $3,000, and products are not available as individual components. These kits are popular among heavy-duty and serious drivers from businessmen to RV lovers, and those into racing and equestrian sports.

Features

The state-of-the-art Talon towing suspension kits offer exceptional features that are intended specifically for towing large and heavy trailers. It is designed to provide a comfortable ride and excellent handling even with an empty trailer.

These kits also offer standard features and suspension accessories such as user-friendly in-cab controls, low pressure monitor light, a backlight tire pressure gauge, and powerful precision break system.

Talon towing suspension kits replace regular leaf spring packs with link suspensions that are built for towing comfort and control. Ride quality is greatly improved with top-quality air bags while system parameters are maintained by a self-regulating control unit inside the cab.

Talon also employed a trailing design for the lever arm to keep the axle at a pinion angle as it travels throughout its entire range. This design has eliminated torque shudders, wheel hops, and axle wraps.

All-in-One Package

Talon towing suspension kits are inclusive, all-in-one towing packages where customers will find everything they will need, from the main parts to installation components such as mounting hardware and wiring. Each of these kits contains:

– Talon’s patented link system

– Highest quality air springs

– 12V air compressor

– Air reservoirs

– Air circuit

– Rear tuning and front-matched shocks

– Auto-leveling kit

Installation and Support

Talon towing suspension kits are available from authorized dealers. Installation will be handled by your dealer. Installing the system is easy, requiring no drilling of holes, no welding, and no cutting. This system is USA-made and has earned the trust and support of auto professionals and various of serious drivers. It is also backed by a 5-year limited warranty.

Call for Professional Auto Services

In case you have not upgraded to a Talon suspension system yet or you need additional towing services, you can find the right professionals through Seva Call. We’ll connect you with reliable, professional towing companies that are based in your area. Contact us now and speak to towing professionals in minutes!

Tags: Talon Towing Suspension Kits
Posted in Towing | No Comments »

Wood Pellet Stove Inserts

Friday, January 17th, 2014

A beautiful, custom-made fireplace can add value to your property and boost its appeal. Moreover, it can turn the dullest room into a cozy, inviting environment. Now homeowners have the chance to transform their fireplaces into eco-friendly, incredibly effective heating powerhouses by simply purchasing and installing wood pellet stove inserts.

Get the Best Pellet Inserts for Your Fireplace

Of course, pellet inserts for fireplaces come in a great variety of shapes, styles, and sizes. Choose the right one for you based on some of the most important selection criteria listed below.

Price: Brand-new wood pellet stove inserts carry different price tags (based on their size, materials, design particularities, and heat output) ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 and up.

Your particular heating needs and requirements: With a good model, you should be able to heat up an indoor space measuring up to 2,000 square feet fast and without any difficulties.

Insert material: Wood pellet stove inserts are usually made from durable, resistant materials like steel and cast iron. Both options are worth considering, due to their superior quality.

Analyzing the Main Benefits of Truly Remarkable Pellet Inserts

Pellet inserts should be aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient at the same time. Some of the most advanced models have an optimal efficiency estimated at approximately 83%. Moreover, they should be designed to heat up large rooms without triggering a large amount of emissions.

In most cases, the pellet hopper is adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit, trouble-free, rapid cleanups, and very low maintenance. Some models come with an air wash feature that allows users to keep the glass of the pellet insert spotless at all times.

Ask an Expert

If you want to turn your fireplace into a green, reliable source of heat, consider investing in wood pellet stove inserts. Choose the best products and features for your home by consulting a heating and cooling expert. Find the most competent one in your area with just a little help from Seva Call, your best connection to great local professionals.

Tags: Wood Pellet Stove Inserts
Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes from Bursting

Friday, January 17th, 2014

The risk of frozen pipes bursting is a very prevalent danger in this time of the year. In areas all around the country, people are reporting that pipes have burst in their homes or offices. It is a horrible process that causes a great amount of damage and costs a lot money to recover from.

However, you can take steps to prevent pipes from bursting in the future. Each of the following steps can pay dividends in helping you know how to prevent pipes from bursting.

Allow Water to Drip

Let faucets drip in different locations of the house. In some areas use the cold faucet, and for others use hot, because they each work through different lines.

The reasoning behind doing this is to allow water to keep flowing. If it stops moving, then the odds of it freezing and bursting increases exponentially.

Turn off Main Water Valve

If temperatures are freezing, turn the main water valve off before leaving the house or going to sleep. It is important to keep an eye on your pipes and temperature in these situations. If you are asleep or away from home and a pipe bursts, then it could result in major flooding problems.

Check for Air Space

Search areas of your home where you have plumbing on the exterior walls. Check for possible sources of air leaks that could cause the pipes to freeze.

To prevent cold air from reaching it, place insulation between the pipes and outside wall of your home. You can also open the cabinets underneath each sink, which can insulate your pipes from the warmer air in your home. This will allow the warm air from your heating system to keep the pipes warmer.

Contact a Plumber

If you do not know where your main water valve is, or have questions on the current state of your pipes, then seek the help of a plumber immediately. They can help fix your pipes before they are tested in freezing temperatures. To find a plumber who fits in your schedule, just use TalkLocal. We will expedite the research and contact process, connecting you directly with the right professional in just minutes.

Posted in Plumbers | No Comments »

Installing New Electrical Service Panels

Thursday, January 16th, 2014

Replacing electrical service panels is a complicated job and dangerous with improper installations, presenting risks of fire or electrocution. Precise installation according to code is crucial when putting in a new electrical service panel. Use only the proper components for their intended usage.

While some homeowners bravely take on this task themselves, most cities require that it be handled by a state licensed, bonded, and insured electrician.

Replace Electrical Service Panels If:

– The existing panel is the outdated type of fuse box.

– There are no more available spaces on the old panel to accommodate new electrical circuits you need to add to your home.

– If your circuit breakers trip and fuses blow frequently in your home and it’s difficult to locate parts for replacement.

– The panel is already rusted out and susceptible to moisture, which causes frequent short circuits.

Consult a Qualified Electrician

Is it time to replace your old-fashioned fuse panel? Is the panel so incredibly overloaded that it’s become a hazard? Schedule an appointment with a qualified electrician regarding the installation of a new electrical service panel.

During your consultation, the electrician will let you know what the proper size of your service panel should be so that it can support the energy needs of your home. You will also get an installation service quote.

What to Expect When a Pro Upgrades Your Service Panel

When you work with a reputable electrician, you should expect their assistance right from the start in coordinating the job with the city building inspector and obtaining an electrical permit. It should only take a day to complete this job, so you don’t have to be without power in your home for long.

A reputable electrician will have no hidden fees, meaning the price of the entire upgrade already includes labor and all parts. The panels and breakers to be used should all be high-quality. The electrician will see to it that your electrical service panels will be grounded the proper way and bonded to meet code to ensure your household’s safety.

The panel’s inside wiring would be cleaned up and terminated to the correctly sized circuit breakers. Your wiring will also be tested for ground fault and overloading.

Need New Electrical Service Panels?

If you’ve decided to replace your old panel at home, find a qualified electrician in your area as quickly as possible by using Seva Call. With our free and quick service, there’s no need to waste time searching for the service you need. Let us connect you to local quality professionals in minutes!

Tags: Electrical Service Panels
Posted in Electricians | No Comments »

Are Snow Tires Necessary?

Thursday, January 16th, 2014

Snow tires are one of the main factors responsible for bad gas mileage during the winter months. In addition, replacing summer tires with winter tires is a costly annual ritual that many drivers feel tempted to skip.

Are snow tires necessary or are they merely a waste of time and money? Keep reading to discover the answer to this question, and don’t forget to contact a snow removal specialist if you require additional information.

How to Decide if Snow Tires Are Right for You

If you live in an area where hard winters with heavy snow are common, then you should definitely use snow tires during the cold season. All-season tires may be perfect for roads affected by rain, sleet, or thick layers of mud, but they can’t guarantee your safety while you are driving on ice and piles of snow.

Experts agree on the fact that snow tires perform admirably on icy, sloppy roads. Also, if you want to avoid traffic accidents at all costs, make sure you buy and install four tires. Some drivers choose to put only two snow tires on their vehicles. This is a considerable safety risk, since the driver has less control over her car when cornering and braking.

Why Are Snow Tires Necessary?

Snow tires are a great investment because they help you reach your destination safely, even in the winter’s most difficult driving conditions. They display special tread patterns and guarantee a superior grip on ice and snow. Moreover, they are manufactured from soft, resistant rubber compounds, ensuring the flexibility of your tires even in the harshest environments with negative temperatures.

Ask an Expert

Are snow tires necessary? Yes, they are, especially if you care about your safety and want to keep your car in excellent condition for the long-term. If you need more information on premium winter tires, don’t hesitate to contact a snow removal specialist. Identify the best ones with help from Seva Call, a free service designed to connect you with a wide range of professional services at your convenience.

Posted in Snow Removal | No Comments »

« Older Entries

Newer Entries »