Improve Computer Bootup Speed

Wednesday, September 4th, 2013

Many people dread restarting their computers because it just seems to take so long. Most people think that this slow bootup time is just something they have to deal with. But take heart! You can improve computer bootup speed by following this simple guide.

Stop unnecessary programs from running when you start your computer:

1. Under the start menu, if you type “msconfig” into the search bar, you will find a number of settings that you can tweak to help your performance.

2. Under the “startup” tab, you can check and uncheck programs that automatically start. Many programs like iTunes, QuickTime, and Skype default to starting up every time you turn the computer on.

3. Uncheck all programs that you don’t need running to start your computer. Just be careful not to uncheck things that you really need!

Postpone the Windows Services that automatically run when you start your computer:

Windows has a lot of services that run automatically as soon as you start your computer. These services are good. They make sure that your computer is running well and that it has the latest updates.

However, when all of these tasks run when you start your computer, they can seriously delay your boot-up speed. Within “msconfig” you can set these programs so they still run automatically, but on a delay. This will keep your computer safe, but it will still keep you updated.

Make sure your antivirus software is running and updated:

Some people get annoyed when their antivirus software opens and prompts them with scans when they start the computer. However, antivirus software is really important. Your computer will run much more slowly if you disable antivirus software, and you could end up getting a virus.

That being said, if you hate being bombarded with a million prompts for antivirus scans and antivirus updates every time you turn your computer on, just run these scans regularly. Then they won’t have to harass you at bootup, and your computer will be safe.

There are other things you can invest in to boost your boot-up speed as well. Look into upgrading your RAM or getting a Solid State Drive. These items give your computer more memory to work with, and thus drastically improve bootup and overall speed.

Still Need Help?

If you try these tips and your computer is still running slowly, or if you have any other computer problems, visit TalkLocal to be connected with high-quality computer repair experts in your area in seconds!

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Different Types of Bail Bonds

Wednesday, September 4th, 2013

There are seven different types of bail bonds available in this country, ranging from cash bail to federal and immigration bail bonds. Below is a list of all seven bail bonds categories, including a short description of each.

1. Citation Release: A citation release is granted when an officer arrests a suspect but releases them immediately, issuing a citation ordering them to appear before a judge on a specified date. A good example of a common citation release is a traffic ticket.

2. Recognizance Release: This is when a person is granted release on their own recognizance on the basis of their signed pledge to appear before the court on an appointed date. Although no payment needs to be made to secure the release, the court does set a fee that will be collected in case the defendant does not show up for their court date.

3. Cash Bail: This type of bail bond is ordered by the court if the defendant is thought to be a flight risk. A cash amount is set that has to be paid before the defendant can be released, although in most cases the sum is so high that the amount cannot be paid.

4. Surety Bond: Of the different types of bail bonds available, the surety bond is perhaps the most common. A surety bond is usually secured for the defendant by a third party via the services of a bail bondsman. The third party works with the bail bondsman to come to an agreement about loan terms and release stipulations. Some form of collateral is put up for the loan, and the bail bondsman secures the defendant’s release.

5. Property Bond: This is a very specialized type of bail wherein property is used as collateral against the bail. Any type of property may be used as long as the person putting up bond has full rights to the property or is authorized to use it for the bond. The only stipulation is that the value of the property has to be twice the amount of the bail, at a minimum.

6. Federal Bail Bond: A federal bail bond is applied only in cases of federal crimes that lie outside the purview of state authorities. This type of bond requires a person with proven assets to sign an agreement with the court to the effect that they will repay the bail in the event that the defendant jumps bail.

7. Immigration Bail Bond: This type of bond is reserved for illegal aliens who require bail. The processing of an immigration bond goes through a number of federal offices, making it the most expensive of the different types of bail bonds.

If you need a good bail bondsman in your area, TalkLocal can help. We can refer you to top-rated bondsmen and attorneys in your area through our free referral program. Don’t wait – come check out our website today.

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How Do I Get Rid of My Old TV?

Wednesday, September 4th, 2013

It’s been a year since you bought your new TV, but the old one is still sitting in your garage, collecting dust. You do want to deal with it, but you are always pulled up short by one basic question – how do I get rid of my old TV? With tighter environmental regulations being put in place at landfills across the country, simply dumping your old TV in the trash is no longer an option. Many states are beginning to offer electronic recycling programs, but these are in their infancy and might not be up and running in your area yet.

So when you ask yourself the question, ”How do I get rid of my old TV?” it might not seem at first that there is a good answer. However, with a little bit of Internet digging, you will find a lot of options, some of which might surprise you.

Local Recycling Option

Check with your local waste management and recycling facilities to determine which ones will recycle your old TV. Some facilities might pay you for your used TV, but most will not. Some companies might even charge a fee for their recycling services. However, this is a good option because you can be pretty sure that your old TV is actually being recycled, rather than being sold for parts in developing nations.

Recycling Companies

There are many private companies, most of which operate online, who will recycle your old electronics for cash. Different companies offer to recycle different pieces of equipment, so if you choose this option, make sure that the company you are working with will recycle your TV.

Municipal Hazardous Waste Pick-up Days

Most municipal authorities offer residents set days in the year when they will take away your used electronics to be recycled at no extra charge. Just check with your local waste management company to find out if your town or city provides this service.

Big Retailers and Manufacturers

Sometimes large companies such as Big Buy will accept your old TV and other electronics for recycling. Some electronics manufacturers also offer customers the same service. All it takes is a simple online search for your item’s manufacturer to find out if this option will work for you.

Electronic Takeback Coalition

This is a website dedicated to the recycling of old electronic goods. It lists the electronic recycling laws by state and is an invaluable resource if you find yourself saying, “How do I get rid of my old TV?”

If you need help connecting with a waste management company in your area, feel free to check out TalkLocal’s free referral service. We will connect you to waste management and recycling professionals in your area at no extra charge.

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How to Estimate Your Chimney Repair Costs

Wednesday, September 4th, 2013

Chimneys are very useful, but they need regular cleaning, otherwise they can be very dangerous. Chimneys eliminate toxic gases from your house if they are in good condition. Unfortunately, they are not invulnerable. In order to save you time and money, all you have to do is have them inspected and cleaned once per year. If need be, you might have to repair them.

How Can You Keep Your Chimney Working Properly?

If you want your chimney to serve you as it should, you need to check and repair it on a regular basis. First of all, to find out if it needs any repairs, you need to clean it. You can do this yourself or you can ask a professional to do it for you.

How Can You Estimate Your Chimney Repair Costs?

If you’re not a do-it-yourself person and decide to pay a professional to do the job, remember that prices vary from region to region and even from company to company, depending on what you need to be repaired. Let’s see what you can opt for and how much an average chimney repair costs.

What Are Your Options?

– Sweeping your chimney. Costs may vary from $150 to $300.

– Chimney flashing repairs. This helps you avoid possible damage caused by water. Any leak that goes unnoticed can cause serious issues. Costs range between $150 and $350. There are also sealants on the market that formulate to provide a waterproof membrane for adhesion on asphalt shingle, brick, metal, and/or other chimney and roofing parts. You can find these products on Amazon and have it shipped for free starting at $81.94.

– Installing a new metal cap on your chimney. This is very important, as the cap prevents water or even little animals from getting into your house. That can cost you $150 up to $300. You can find and purchase a new chimney cap from Amazon and have it shipped overnight starting at $23.04.

– Unblocking your flue. Blockage may happen because of rubbish or even animal nests. If it’s blocked, this metal tube meant to take smoke and heat out of your house will not be able to do this anymore, which is a great risk to your family’s health. You can find different products to help clean and protect your chimney including the flue. Some of those products include a chimney cleaner, brush, and flue stop. You can purchase some of these products on Amazon and have them shipped overnight starting at $7.19.

– Tuck-pointing your chimney. This means inserting mortar between the bricks in order to repair faulty mortar. It will cost you up to $175.

– Repairing the entire chimney. This entails complete rebuilding. Depending on the contractor, that may cost you up to $1,000.

Need Help?

If you decide to entrust your chimney repair to a professional, TalkLocal can connect you directly with local professionals specializing in chimney repairs and maintenance, for free.

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Tags: chimney, chimney repair
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Newly Installed Driver is Crashing Computer

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2013

Having a computer that crashes frequently can be one of the most frustrating things to deal with. Getting help can be difficult too, with so many different operating systems and types of computers. So, if your newly installed driver is crashing computer, just read below. We have some helpful hints for you, focusing on Windows computers.

Newly Installed Driver is Crashing Computer

1. Make sure your computer can’t be fixed by a simple reboot. Many times, a simple restart of your computer can help resolve any temporary issues, so if you haven’t already, restart your computer and see what happens.

2. Windows XP and Windows Vista systems provide the user with utilities for discovering the root of the cause of computer crashes. Use the Problem Reports and Windows Event Viewer to do this. To get here, go to the Control Panel, select ‘System and Maintenance’, and then proceed to Administrative tools. Finally, select ‘Event Viewer’ to launch the troubleshooting process.

3. Once you get to the Event Viewer, click on the ‘System’ tab under the Windows logo. Scan the list for any red error icons, which indicate software problems. If there are errors present, you can resolve this by clicking the ‘Problem and Reports’ option under ‘System and Maintenance’. View the problem history to check for any possible solutions.

4. If the problem seems to be a newly installed driver that is crashing your computer, you can try fixing this by going back to the Control Panel and selecting the ‘System’ option.

5. Click the ‘Hardware’ tab and go to ‘Device Manager’ to see a list of drivers installed on your computer. The driver with an exclamation point may be the one causing problems, so right-click that one and click on ‘Update Driver’ to search for an updated driver.

6. If this doesn’t work, you can try simply uninstalling a driver that you believe may be the cause of the issue. To do this, go to your command prompt (found by going to ‘Run’ from the ‘Start’ menu and entering in “cmd”), and enter in ‘devmgmt.msc’.

7. In the Device Manager, right click on the device or driver you want to remove and select Uninstall.

This step will allow you to delete any driver or device you believe may be the root of the problem.

Find Computer Help

If this article didn’t help solve your problem, you may want to think about finding professional help. If you’re searching for a capable and reputable computer repairman, consider using Sel to be connected with one directly. Just enter in your specific problem, location, and availability, and up to three companies will call YOU directly, saving you the time and stress of finding one yourself.

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Energy Saving Light Bulbs Facts

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2013

Lighting accounts for 6 percent of an average household’s energy consumption. Using energy-efficient lighting is one way to lower energy use as well as household emissions. Look at some energy saving light bulbs facts that compare its performance to standard light bulbs:

– An energy-efficient light bulb uses up to 80 percent less power than a traditional bulb.

– Despite using less electricity, it can produce the same amount of light as an incandescent bulb.

– Fluorescent and LED lights outlive conventional bulbs by over a dozen times.

– If you leave a 100-watt light bulb on for just half an hour, it will emit enough carbon dioxide to fill up one party balloon.

– Using energy-saving light bulbs can reduce energy waste by more than 75 percent.

– If every house throughout the country uses a compact fluorescent bulb (CFL) instead of an incandescent bulb, the amount of energy saved can provide lighting to 300 million households in a year.

– Enjoy up to $40 savings in your energy bill over the lifespan of every CFL bulb used in your home.

– A CFL bulb produces heat much less significantly than an incandescent bulb, reducing the cost of cooling a home.

Buying Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

Now that you know some energy saving light bulbs facts that show how effective they are, you may be thinking about replacing your traditional light bulbs. Consider your options:

– Halogens: Emit light that closely resembles the output and quality of an incandescent bulb; use up to 30 percent less energy than standard bulbs; life span of 2,000 hours.

– Compact Fluorescents: Use up to 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs; life span of 6,000 hours; may take several minutes before getting fully bright; contains a tiny amount of mercury, so proper disposal is required.

– Light-Emitting Diodes or LEDs: Use up to 90 percent less energy than conventional bulbs; life span of 25,000 hours; no delay in reaching full brightness; most expensive.

After choosing the type of energy-saving light bulb to use, determine the bulb’s fitting type and shape. Is it a screw-in or bayonet-type bulb? Does it have the classic bulb shape or is it spiral or globe-shaped? If you’re uncertain, just bring the old bulb with you to the store. Also, consider the color temperature of the bulb. Measured in Kelvin (K), lower temperature values give off a warmer color while higher values give off bluish light that appears cooler.

Lastly, check the bulb’s brightness (measured in lumens) and wattage. Note that the wattage of energy-saving bulbs is different from their incandescent counterparts. So, for example, you will need an 18W CFL to replace a 60W incandescent bulb and a 26W CFL to replace a 100W incandescent bulb.

Need an Electrician?

If you need professional help installing lighting in your home, use TalkLocal. Contact us and we’ll connect you with a qualified local electrician within minutes.

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How to Keep Flowers Fresh with Sugar Water

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2013

Fresh cut flowers can certainly brighten a room. Whether you just received a dozen roses from your husband or you simply bought a bouquet of tulips from a store, you can extend the life of flowers by using a very common kitchen staple – sugar. To be exact, you can keep flowers fresh with sugar water. Make a sugar-based flower preservative right at home to make any cut flowers last longer.

What You Will Need:

Option 1

– 3 tablespoons of sugar

– 2 tablespoons of white vinegar per liter of water

– Warm water enough to cover up to 4 inches of the flower stems

Option 2

– 2 tablespoons of sugar

– 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or fresh lemon juice

– ½ teaspoon household chlorine bleach

– 1 liter warm water

Directions:

1. Combine all of the fluids together.

2. Dissolve the sugar into the solution.

3. Fill the vase with the sugar water, making sure to submerge the stems up to 4 inches high. You’ll be surprised how long you can keep flowers fresh with sugar water.

4. Just don’t forget to change the water in the vase every other day.

How does it work?

Like a growing flower, a cut flower still needs nutrition to stay alive. When a flower is cut, the stem acts like a straw. When you put it in water, it will draw up the water through its stem and all the way up the stalk to nourish the flower. It is possible to keep flowers fresh with sugar water because plants do use sugar, also known as sucrose, as a source of energy. In fact, growing plants produce sucrose during photosynthesis when they are exposed to sunlight.

Cut flowers, on the other hand, are not able to manufacture enough sucrose because they are no longer receiving direct sunlight, but table sugar works well as a sucrose replacement. When you put cut flowers in sugar water, they will absorb the sugar through the open ends of their stems.

Using Additives

Cut flowers respond better when certain additives are put in the sugar-water solution. In the options above to make sugar-based preservatives, adding acid (vinegar or fresh lemon juice) to the solution will regulate the water’s pH level and also help the flower absorb water faster, while adding a biocide (bleach) will kill bacteria and microorganisms.

Want to Order Some Flowers?

A sugar-based flower preservative can make the life of cut flowers last twice or thrice as long. This is why most florists use preservatives with some form of sugar in it. Now that you know how to make cut flowers last longer, why not order a bouquet now? Use TalkLocal to connect you to some of the best florists in your area quickly, easily, and for free.

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Heat Resistant Paint Stoves

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2013

Millions of homeowners are eager to invest in simple, cost-effective maintenance projects, conducted to protect their appliances, increase their lifespan, and keep them looking like new for a longer period of time. What is the ideal solution when it comes to stoves, ovens, and various other white appliances that are hard to clean and always exposed to high temperatures? In this case, if you want to come up with the best answer to this question, rely on incredibly resistant and extremely accessible heat resistant paint stoves.

How to select the best heat resistant paint stoves

Looking forward to completing your first DIY project around the house? Are you willing to invest in the very best heat resistant paint stoves? In this case,settle for no less than 5-star products, launched on the market by well-liked manufacturers and offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee. All top-rated items listed in this category have a few attributes in common:

a) They dry fast.

b) They withstand elevated temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit (649 degrees Celsius).

c) They represent premium coating material (usually silicon-based) that comes in a wide range of colors.

d) The coating does not flake, blister, or peel.

e) They are appropriate for numerous metal surfaces in need of heat-resistant coating.

f) They create and maintain a beautiful, porcelain-like, glossy finish for a longer period of time.

Where to apply heat resistant paint stoves

At some point in time, you might notice that your appliances show signs of wear and tear and are far from being in excellent condition. In this case, heat resistant paint stoves can be the answer to your problems. Undoubtedly, top-quality paint that comes in aerosol cans will improve the appearance of your stove, oven, barbeque grill, gas grill, fireplace andirons, and Japanese hibachis. Believe it or not, in this case, the answer to your pressing problems lies inside an aerosol spray can.

How to find the best painters for this job

Are you worried that you might not be able to identify and utilize the best heat resistant paint stoves on your own? Find truly competent painters in your ZIP code fast and effortlessly by simply counting on TalkLocal, your number one source of information.

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Carpentry Tools List

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2013

There are ten essential tools that every carpenter will need. This carpentry tools list covers everything that you need in order to jump-start your carpentry. Knowing the basic tools you will need will help you make everything from countertops to other, more complex structures, like treehouses.

1) Claw Hammer (Finish Head)

Every home needs a hammer for all-around household fixing. Find a hammer that feels good and solid in the hand and that is not too heavy.

2) 6” Layout Square

A layout square is useful for all carpenters, because it can help you make a square, create a 45ᵒ angle, and measure up to 6 inches. This tool is indispensable.

3) 25’ Measuring Tape

A measuring tape is another must-have for the carpenter. The measuring tape should have both standard and metric markings and have a loose hook at the end so you can make accurate measurements.

4) Utility Knife

A utility knife is useful for making markings on wood and is an all-around tool that you will need in completing your projects. Get one that is sturdy and has a locking mechanism for the blade.

5) Chisels

A finely sharpened chisel is perfect for cleaning joints. It can also be used to clean out mortises. Different sizes should be at your disposal to provide for a wide range of uses and projects.

6) Level

You will need a level to make sure that what you are working on is perfectly horizontal or vertical. It is advisable to keep a long level (about 36”) and short one that is about 6”.

7) Screwdrivers

Every household needs a screwdriver – and not just for carpentry. Try to purchase several screwdrivers of different sizes, as well as both flat heads and hex heads (or Phillips), so you can be ready when you need it.

8) Sliding Bevel

This tool is much like a 6” square, except that is has a locking mechanism and can be adjusted to different angles. The tool is useful if you want to replicate angles.

9) Nail Sets

Nail sets are similar in size and shape to chisels, except that they are used to sink nails into wood. It is handy to keep several nail sets at your disposal.

10) Block Plane

A block plane is another essential for every carpenter. Block planes are used for shaving wood and for cleaning up edges.

Need Help?

Contact TalkLocal today, and we can help you find a professional near you. You may need some help in selecting carpentry tools or finding a carpenter near your area. In this case, we are here to help.

Tags: carpentry, carpentry tools, tools
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How to Clean Marble Fireplace

Monday, September 2nd, 2013

Formerly used for practical purposes, nowadays fireplaces are astonishing items of luxurious furniture meant to create a special atmosphere in your home, especially if they are made of marble. In order to cherish your piece of marble as long as possible, you should clean it whenever necessary. Although porous, marble is not so difficult to clean and maintain. Before discussing several ways of cleaning marble, it should be said that it is a very good idea to have a sealant on your marble, which is meant to protect this natural stone over time.

What Do You Need to Clean Your Marble Fireplace?

How to clean marble fireplace is simple if you keep in mind some basic tips. First of all, if you want to start cleaning your marble fireplace, all you need is a bucket, soap, a sponge, a rag, and a piece of cloth.

What’s the Procedure?

1. First, you must dust your fireplace off.

2. When you’re done, take the bucket, fill it with warm water and add some dish-washing liquid to it.

3. Immerse the sponge, a soft one preferably, into the warm water, wring it out, and start cleaning the surface of the fireplace.

4. After removing the soap residue with a rag and, if need be, with some water, buff the marble with a dry cloth.

Are There Other Ways to Clean a Marble Fireplace?

Another possible way to clean your fireplace is using a vapor cleaner. If you need a more thorough cleaning, you can have it polished using chemical products with a stronger impact. Bear in mind never to use abrasive brushes or chemicals, because they can damage the surface. Also, avoid using products which contain acids, such as vinegar, as they may make your marble look duller.

Need an Expert Opinion?

If you are not sure about how to clean marble fireplace or whether a product is suitable for cleaning it or not, ask an expert before using it. Should you want to entrust this job to someone qualified to do it, TalkLocal can put you in contact with the right cleaning professional in just minutes.

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