iPhone is Not Recognized by Computer

Monday, September 23rd, 2013

Typically, your iPhone should be recognized by iTunes when you plug it into your computer via the USB port. If your phone does not immediately show up in iTunes there may be a variety of reasons why your iOS device is not being recognized by the computer.

Use the following tips to troubleshoot your iPhone-computer connection.

1. Update iTunes

Check iTunes to see if any updates are available. For a Mac, go to iTunes > Check for Update.

For Windows, go to Help > Check for Updates.

Make sure your operating system is updated and compatible with the iTunes update.

2. Restart your iPhone

Turn off your iPhone by holding down the sleep/wake button at the top of the phone until a red slider appears. Slide your finger across the “slide to power off” icon. The phone should turn off after a few seconds. Then, turn the phone back on by pressing the sleep/wake button until the Apple logo screen appears.

3. Recharge your iPhone

If your phone is low on power, try charging it with the iPhone charger or by connecting it to a charged computer through a USB connecter.

4. Check USB Connections

First try disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cord. If possible, connect the iPhone to the computer via a built-in computer USB port and not a port on a keyboard or USB hub. Try a different USB port if the port you are using continues to fail.

5. Restart Your Computer

With a Mac, restart your computer by clicking on the Apple logo in the top left corner of the screen and selecting “Restart…” from the drop down menu.

In Windows, click the Start button in the bottom left corner > Turn Off Computer > Restart. After restarting, plug your iPhone back into the computer.

6. Reinstall iTunes (Windows)

For Windows users, you may have to reinstall iTunes to get the latest update.

7. Resolve Software Conflicts

Some third-party security software may prevent iTunes from recognizing your phone. To fix the problem you may have to update your software, adjust software settings, or temporarily disable the software.

8. Check USB Cord

It is possible that the USB connector is damaged. Try using a different connector if available to see if this is the case.

Still Need Help?

If these problems continue, you may want to seek professional help. TalkLocal can find the help you need quickly and easily. Just type in what, when, and where you need help and Talk Local will connect you to a computer repair professional in minutes!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Make Doors and Locks a Key Part of Your Home Security Plan

Monday, September 23rd, 2013

Written by Brian Jones, guest contributor

The typical homeowner may have a mental image of burglars sneaking in through windows in the dead of night. According to FBI research, however, that concept is off-base. The majority of home break-ins happen during daytime with burglars entering through a primary door.

To address this reality, homeowners can take a number of steps to bolster their security, starting with doors and locks.

Common residential doors are no match for burglars. Most are constructed with particleboard and a plywood skin. They are easily split or shattered with only a screwdriver or a small crowbar. Specially designed all-steel security doors, on the other hand, are far more resistant to break-ins.

A residential security door is made from a steel frame of crisscrossed bars and armored steel plate. Other components, such as hinges and fasteners, are made of tamper-proof stainless steel.

Also, you should install a steel doorjamb or reinforce the existing one with steel jackets that are secured to the underlying house frame.

Strong doors are useless without high-quality locks that are installed properly. Ninety percent of locks that locksmiths see in homes are low-grade products that are easily disabled by picking, twisting or brute force.

Installing a deadbolt on every exterior door, including doors between the garage and living area, is a critical step in preventing a burglary. Keep in mind these specific characteristics and installation tips:

> Use only locks with an ANSI grade 1 rating.

> If possible, use double-cylinder deadbolts.

> The deadbolt must have a minimum of a one-inch throw.

> The lock’s striker plate must be solid steel and be secured through the doorjamb into the house framing with three-inch screws, or longer.

> Locks with hardened steel, beveled casings resist twisting with a pipe wrench.

> The best locks have features such as anti-saw pins, anti-drill chips and keys that cannot be duplicated at the local hardware store.

Proper doors and locks combined with modern home security systems give your home its best chance to resist intrusion by thieves. Here are just a few of the features can expect from the best electronic security systems.

> Monitoring for intruders using infrared motion detectors

> Surveillance cameras scanning the inside and outside of your home

> Security alerts and remote access through a web-enabled device, such as a tablet or smartphone

Don’t be complacent about the security of your home. Upgrade your doors and locks and consider the benefits of supplementing them with a state-of-the-art security system.

To beat the odds, start by being proactive. Use TalkLocal to be connected with high-quality locksmiths and security experts in your area.

Posted in Locksmiths | No Comments »

Remodeling to Add Space: Keeping Your New Space Clean

Monday, September 23rd, 2013

Remodeling to add space is a good idea for an expanding family or if you just want a more spacious house with more room to entertain friends. Adding an extra wing to your house gives you more room to move around and have more space to put your things.

Aside from maintenance costs, there are other costs to consider when adding extra space. However, these are minimal when compared to the benefits. Cleaning the extra space isn’t too much of a chore, either. Here we show you four tips on how to clean the extra space.

1) Decide on how you clean you want it to be

Do you want your new space to be spotless for guests, or just clean enough to be comfortable for your family? Based on this, you can decide how much time you can spend and want to spend on cleaning. You can also prepare your cleaning tools and vacuum cleaners.

2) Cleaning glass/mirrors

It’s a common myth that regular cleaning agents can be used to clean glass and mirrors. For windows and mirrors, you have to use glass and mirror cleaners that are made especially for these, or you risk ruining the glass.

3) Polish furniture

Use furniture polisher to keep wooden furniture looking new. Regular soapy water won’t do the trick, because it will ruin the wood and will make it rot. You can find a good furniture polish at your local hardware store.

4) Using all-purpose cleaners

They aren’t all-purpose after all. Make sure to read the labels carefully. Many of them contain chemicals that are harmful to some furniture and upholstery. Read the ingredients and make sure they are compatible with the things that you are going to clean them with. These cleaners are not always all-purpose like they claim to be.

Or Call a Professional

Here at TalkLocal, we are committed to helping you find a professional near you. Give us a call today and let us connect you with the right professional!

Posted in Maid Services | No Comments »

Heating Vent Covers

Friday, September 20th, 2013

Millions of homeowners pay ridiculously high energy bills and still fail to turn their homes into ideal, welcoming environments with optimal temperatures year-round. This incredibly common problem generates a lot of frustration; however, it could be addressed in a simple, cost-effective manner by implementing a heat-saving solution in the form of heating vent covers. Keep reading to discover how to improve the effectiveness of your heating and cooling system fast and effortlessly.

Why do homeowners need heating vent covers?

Heating vent covers are designed and installed to help homeowners experience significant financial savings while making the most of the warmth that they are actually paying for. This type of cover guarantees a perfect fit and should be placed over the owners’ AC outlet vents in order to prevent heat loss.

Even if your ducting system is new and fully functional, it will still enable a certain amount of air to escape. This is why you need to rely on inexpensive heat-saving vent covers.

Vent blades should be left open during summer (to facilitate a proper air circulation), and they should be closed during the cold season to minimize heat loss. The right vent covers eliminate the need for such adjustments, are easy to install, and keep the blades in an ideal position.

How could I find the perfect heating vent covers for my home?

You could purchase highly effective, accessible heating vent covers tailored to your needs in different patterns, shapes, and even custom sizes, matching your home’s design particularities online or in almost any brick-and-mortar hardware store.

Are you looking for the best energy-efficiency products, but don’t know which items are actually worth your money? When in doubt, it is advisable to count on expert advice and professional installation, ensured by a dependable heating and cooling expert operating in your area. Find the best specialists with just a little help from TalkLocal, your reliable connection to the high-quality professionals in your area.

Posted in Heating and Cooling | No Comments »

LCD TV vs LED TV

Friday, September 20th, 2013

Most homeowners are willing to pay the right price for first-hand electronics, based on cutting-edge technology and designed to stand the test of time. However, the overwhelming plentitude of brands launching thousands of similar products serving the same purpose often confuses potential buyers and makes them indecisive.

When it comes to purchasing a fantastic television, what are the best alternatives at hand? Keep reading to discover the most accurate answer to your LCD TV vs LED TV dilemma and learn how to spot the most competent TV repair experts in your zip code.

LCD TV vs LED TV

Millions of homeowners spend a lot of time trying to analyze the pros and cons of both LCD and LED TVs. Do your homework before making a purchase to avoid disappointment and unpleasant surprises.

LED TVs are very popular due to their energy-efficiency, great display, amazing contrasts, thinner panels, and reduced heat dissipation, when compared to their LCD competitors. LED TVs get bonus points for their light-emitting diodes technology. The main difference between LCD and LED TVs is represented by the way in which the display is being illuminated.

From this perspective, LCDs rely on CCFLs (cathode fluorescent lights), while LEDs count on light-emitting diodes to illuminate the TV screen. At this point in time, LED technology is increasingly popular, while the CCFLs option is usually taken into consideration mostly by people who are trying to find a quality HDTV on a relatively tight budget.

Finding the best option for your home

When it comes to buying an HDTV, make sure to take into consideration all of the factors that truly matter to you, since such a sophisticated product represents a long-term investment for most homeowners.

Judge all products by screen size, power consumption, cost, thickness, reliability, and life span. Remember that LED-lit TVs are much thinner than their CCFL counterparts (most LED televisions display a thickness of less than 1 inch) and require much less energy than plasma TVs. In terms of costs, LCDs are much cheaper than LED TVs. If you want to purchase an HDTV with an increased lifespan, opt for an LED TV guaranteeing around 100,000 hours of flawless functionality.

Ask an expert

Are you striving to find the perfect HDTV option for your home while trying to figure out who’s going to win the LCD TV vs LED TV battle? Are you looking for fast, reliable, accessible TV repair services in your area?

Get all of your household problems solved today with just a bit of help from TalkLocal, your trusted provider of fresh information, enabling you to get in touch with reputable professionals for all of your service needs.

Posted in TV Repair | No Comments »

Tips for Buying a New Home: Renovations and Repairs

Friday, September 20th, 2013

Possible Repairs

When encountering tips for buying a new home, it is always a surprise how little is covered about possible repairs. There should always be a clause in the contract about repair contingency. This clause states that if a repair is discovered by the buyer during inspection, then the seller is held liable for the repair. It’s very important to understand this, because once this document is signed and sealed, it’s legally binding.

Simply put, if the buyer discovers that some repairs need to be made, the seller can opt to repair them or not. If the seller repairs them, then all is clear. However, if the seller refuses to repair them, then the buyer can terminate the contract. Repairs, if not discovered early, can cost a lot. Chimney repairs, for example, may lead to some serious expenses. This is why it is important to always inspect the house you are buying thoroughly, and to always read the fine print.

Possible Renovations

A simple way to find out if the house you are buying would need possible renovations is to simply see when it was built. If it was built as far back as 20 years ago, then it may even contain asbestos, and you’ll need to have that removed as quickly as possible.

You also have to look at the building plans of the house and check the plumbing system to see if everything is in order. There may be rust that needs to be removed before it damages your property. You also need to check the walls, the roof, and the floors. Is everything sturdy? Is everything as it should be?

Do You Need Help?

Here at TalkLocal, we are dedicated to helping you. Call us or fill out an online request, and we will have you on the phone with up to three professionals in just minutes. Use Seva Call today!

Tags: new home, new home buyer, real estate
Posted in Handyman | No Comments »

How to Take Care of Cold Resistant Plants

Friday, September 20th, 2013

Cold Resistant Plants

Cold resistant plants, also called cold-tolerant annuals, add color and variety to gardens. They have the ability to withstand cooler temperatures in the spring and to withstand temperatures that are below freezing in the winter. These plants are different from cool weather annuals, which thrive only when the weather is cold. Once the summer is near, their blooming slows. Some examples of these plants are Calendula and Godetia. Unlike fruit trees, these plants can grow in winter.

Planting Cold Resistant Plants

1. Acclimate the plants to the temperature outdoors. Try to place them outdoors any time the temperature drops below 40⁰F. After several days, they should be able to properly handle cooler temperatures.

2. Pansies and violets can usually tolerate frost. Again, this requires acclimation. Most annuals tolerate frosts, but not necessarily freezing temperatures at first.

3. Location is very important. These plants thrive when planted in plant boxes and window boxes. They can also thrive in flower beds on patios. Patios are perfect because they receive just the right amount of sunlight.

4. Transplant the annuals every so often. They have very fine, fibrous root systems, so be very careful when transplanting them. If needed, you can trim their roots to encourage new growth. Annuals should be planted shallowly. They don’t do well if planted deeper.

5. Frequently water the plants. They need lots of watering, especially after transplanting them, to encourage new root growth.

6. Put fertilizer at least once a year on the plants. Granular types of fertilizer are preferable because they are slow-release types and provide nutrients at controlled levels. These plants will benefit greatly from these types of fertilizers.

Need Professional Help?

Talk Local will connect you with up to three landscaping professionals in your area. You’ll be on the phone, speaking with a qualified professional in just minutes. Contact TalkLocal today and let us help you find the right professional near you!

Posted in Landscapers | No Comments »

Remodeling to Add Space: Painting and Wallpaper

Friday, September 20th, 2013

Painting the Walls

Painting the walls when you are remodeling to add space is the easiest way to freshen up a new addition to your home. It adds vibrancy to your new space, as well as interesting décor. When you’ve chosen your color of choice, don old clothes and get ready to paint.

> Use the necessary paint brushes or roller brushes to paint.

> Use masking tape to prevent the paint from getting where you don’t want it to go and overlap with the floor or other places.

> Cover furniture with bed sheets that you are ready to let go of.

> Cover mirrors and keep pets and children out of the room until all paint is dry and the smell is completely gone.

> Then, Sit back and admire your work!

Putting on Wallpaper

When choosing wallpaper for remodeling to add space, you must choose wisely. The wallpaper must coordinate with your existing wallpaper, if you already have some, or with your existing paint. If you’re putting up wallpaper for the first time, you have to estimate how much you will use and make room for allowances.

You also have to trim it correctly and choose the design that best fits the room. For example, if you’re expanding your home for a nursery, choose an appropriate design.

Then, you have to choose the correct adhesive, if your wallpaper is not the self-adhesive type. Wallpaper comes in all varieties of colors and designs, and you might be overwhelmed. That’s OK. Just make sure it coordinates with the rest of your home so that your new space does not stick out like a sore thumb.

Help is on the Way…

TalkLocal is here to help you with your remodeling needs. We will connect you with qualified painting and wallpaper professionals in your area. Give us a call today.

Posted in Painters | No Comments »

Trailers for Horses

Thursday, September 19th, 2013

Have you ever wondered how those beautiful horses are being transported in different parts of the U.S. to compete against each other during some of the most prestigious competitions? The answer is simple: Their owners move them from point A to point B using trailers for horses, guaranteeing a 100% safe ride and a superior level of comfort at all times. Keep reading to discover useful info on horse trailers and great towing professionals.

How to choose the best trailers for horses

At this point in time, horse owners have the chance to check out a great variety of horse trailers, manufactured using premium materials and displaying significant improvements in terms of looks and functionality. Some of the best models have a 100% aerodynamic shape, favoring reduced fuel consumption and triggering considerable financial savings.

The best products, designed for daily use, should be based on an extremely robust, aluminum structure; such trailers for horses are expected to be incredibly stable during the whole trip. Keep in mind the fact that there are hundreds of models available on the market, each of them coming with different price tags, features, advantages, and disadvantages.

Paying the right price for horse trailers

The most inexpensive ones are by far the less sophisticated stock trailers, used to transport cattle. Of course, some of the most sophisticated models come with special safety features, custom windows ensuring optimal ventilation for the transported animals, and also great suspension to guarantee a pleasant, incident-free ride and a reduced level of stress on the horses.

Despite the fact that innovative technology has become widely expensive these days, be prepared to spend more than a couple of dollars on great trailers with custom cabinetry, a generator, ramps, and various other extras, coming from 5-star manufacturers, as great models are priced anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000 and more.

Ask for help today

Finding the best trailers for horses requires a significant amount of time. Make the best decision by consulting a towing expert today. Find the most competent professionals by relying on TalkLocal, which helps you get in touch with real professionals who are only 1 call away.

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How to Find Cheap Catering Services

Thursday, September 19th, 2013

Are you planning a party or celebration, but don’t want to get bogged down in running the show? Let a catering service plan and manage the event for you, so you can enjoy it too! Finding cheap catering services is not that difficult. Here are some good places to look>

1) Non-Profit Caterers

These caterers typically offer catering services as way to train aspiring caterers. They offer catering services for free because they are training would-be professionals in catering. Finding cheap catering services is typically easy this way.

2) Culinary Programs

Some colleges and universities have catering programs that offer cheap catering services as training grounds for students, offering catered meals at reasonable prices. They can offer you reasonably priced meals for your different party events. Plus, as an added bonus, you can sample different culinary delights that the students make at the culinary schools.

3) Meals-to-go Companies

These companies sell fresh or frozen meals that come in boxes that you only need to microwave. These meals often have excellent quality and are very palatable. They are usually fully prepared along with entrees, desserts, side dishes, and soups. These are excellent alternatives to fully catered meals and are very good in quality.

4) Specialty Stores and Grocery Chains

These stores often have prepared meals and are similar to meals-to-go companies. Often, they also have excellent food that is prepared ahead of time. You can call ahead so that they can prepare large batches of food for you that you can then sample. They can prepare salad, soup, entrees, and desserts for you. You can also hire waitresses and waiters to serve the food for you at your party event. This should be part of your party planning checklist.

5) Restaurants

Restaurants will often be willing to cater your events for a minimal fee. Reasonably priced restaurants will offer reasonably priced food as well. They can offer to sample your food ahead of time so you can pick from their menu your choice of items. These restaurants will be happy to accommodate you.

If You Need Help…

TalkLocal will gladly connect you with up to three professional catering services in your area in just minutes, so you can compare prices and find the one that’s right for you.

Posted in Party Planners | No Comments »

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