Archives for January 2021

If you value continued clean air whilst inside, then a well serviced HVAC by Morris Jenkins is the way to achieve it. Standing for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, this unit does all three of these when fully maintained. It will efficiently control the temperature of workplaces and homes, ensure that they are sufficiently ventilated, and that the air is clean and pure enough to breathe to stay healthy. If you visit the website for Prestige Air Conditioning Services, you can find out more about the repair and replacement of these systems.

Comfort

Air that has been conditioned is more comfortable to breathe. Heating that is being controlled is pleasanter to experience than it being left to chance. At home, you can feel warm. At work, the temperature can be just right for carrying out strenuous activities that might already make you sweat. Comfort can be a psychological thing, too. The peace of mind of knowing that the HVAC is improving your air quality will help you to relax in the knowledge that your health is not in any way suffering from the indoor environment that you are in.

Better Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air is all important because we are breathing it into our lungs. There is enough pollution outside from traffic on the roads, without adding to the pollution our lungs end up coping with by potentially breathing in stale air whilst inside. Breathing in bad air, that is air containing pollutants, can irritate a person’s airways and lead to shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, episodes of asthma, or chest pain. Prolonged exposure to air pollutions puts individuals at risk of lung cancer, strokes, heart attacks, and unfortunately in some cases, premature death. It is not an issue to take lightly but a reason to have a HVAC regularly serviced or replaced if not functioning correctly and to its most efficient levels possible. Health should be our number one consideration in everything that we do.

Typical symptoms reported by those experiencing bad air indoors include headaches, fatigue, eye irritation, a dry throat, congestion of sinuses, nausea, and dizziness. There is a condition known as

“sick building syndrome” which can be attached to these symptoms. The way to cure the building’s sickness is to have fitted an efficiently working HVAC system and call upon the experts when it is not.

Reduced Sickness

Employers should see a reduction over time in employee absences through sickness from keeping their HVAC systems well maintained. It has been reported, too, that Americans who breathe less pollution lower their risk of premature death. But then, who is it that is lowering the risk? In the case of inside the home, it is the householder on behalf of their family, but inside the workplace, it is down to the employer to keep their workers safe and happy. There is no doubt that a popular and responsible employer will see the benefits of an efficiently operating HVAC system. A worker will be more efficient in terms of their productivity when an environment is healthier and more suited to working in.

So, bearing all the above in mind, it makes sense to keep up with repairs and to replace tired old HVAC systems with more efficient ones. Also, in terms of the cost to run, even with an air conditioning unit that is just 10 years old, you can save 20 to 40 percent of cooling energy costs through replacing it with a newer model. Variable speed air handlers are considered the best, although to have two speeds will be more efficient than just having one.

For those wanting to understand more about the terms that the HVAC repair companies talk about whilst repairing their systems, here is a useful glossary of terms.

Winter brings loads of extra work and expense for homeowners. Clearing snow from the driveways is a struggle, and you have to keep your supplies stocked up at all times. You also need to pay hefty heating bills to keep your living space cozy and comfortable. Fortunately, a little effort goes a long way in keeping your home warm without throwing your energy bills off-balance. Here are some simple measures you can implement to go the extra mile with home heating this winter.

Use your curtains

The most economical way to heat your living space is by getting it from the sun. You can open the curtains during the day to let the sunlight in and warm up your place naturally. Pull them together at night to add an extra layer of insulation and prevent air from entering through the gaps in the windows. Heavy fabrics are ideal for curtains to keep your rooms well-insulated during these months.

Draft-proof the house

Worn doors, old windows, cracks, and crevasses, and poorly-installed outlet covers are the main culprits that lead the frigid winter air to enter indoors. You need to take the right measures to avoid the draft and reduce your heating bill. Start by weatherstripping the doors and windows. Apply window films to cover the gaps and have rigid foam insulation beneath the doors. It is worth checking cracks and crevasses and addressing them before the chill sets in.

Install an electric fireplace

A traditional fireplace is not eco-friendly and convenient to use, so you can switch to an electric version this season. A built in electric fireplace is a smart installation as it looks good and gives ample warmth. Additionally, it does not emit smoke and fumes, which makes it ideal from a health perspective. It can help you cut down heating bills as you can heat only the area in use instead of the entire house, as it happens with a heating system.

Get smart with central heating

Even if you use central heating, you can get smart with it and make considerable savings on your energy bills. Using timers is a good idea, while you can go a step ahead with smart home automation. It is an excellent investment that lets you save on bills year after year. The technology even gives you the option to turn the devices on and off remotely from your workplace.

Upgrade your boiler

If you are serious about cutting down the heating bills this season, consider an upgrade for your boiler as well.  If you’re looking to upgrade your boiler, you can head over to Boiler Central to price up and buy your boiler within minutes.  has to offer. Water heating makes a significant part of the winter bills, and moving to a new one can save up energy consumption. Look for an energy-efficient appliance with the latest technology because these appliances give hot water in minutes, without using up a lot of power.

Small steps take you a long way when it comes to making your home more energy-efficient in the winter. By implementing them, you can cut down your heating bills and do your bit for the environment.

There are many ways that you can add value to your house through home improvements. This might include building a conservatory or having new windows and double glazing fitted to keep in warmth and keep out traffic noise. Another addition that you might not have considered is to have solar panels fitted, for the present and the future. You can contact companies such as solar Chicago to find out more. In short, you can heat up your home via the rays of the sun to save on electricity or gas bills and help save the environment around you. This will be a popular move with those looking to buy a house who are considering the efficiency of the heating already installed and its impact on the Earth, as governments get tougher on those houses that are not as efficiently heated as others.

Solar Panels

This new technology and fuel source is finding favour with everyone, from householders to environmentalists. In terms of house buying, buyers will seek out properties where solar panels have already been installed and that already allow for cheaper electricity to be enjoyed. Real estate agents will have it as a selling point.

Although solar panels are out of the way on top of a roof, where they need to be to catch the rays of the sun, they can still power the whole home. From heating a home to powering electrical devices, there is often some energy to spare. This energy can become a marketable commodity for the householder, who can then sell it to the grid for the use of others who are yet to use the technology.

From an environmental stance, the sun is radiating heat, or solar energy, that is responsible for life existing on Earth in the first place. Plants rely on sunlight. Animals, including us as humans, need these plants for food and the oxygen that they produce to help us to breathe. We would literally freeze as an Earth without a sun. So, why not extend its use and, in addition, use it as a source of power for non-natural objects to function, too?

Windows

Creating larger windows can improve the view from a house. A bay window with its enhanced shape and added shelf will look impressive and functional. Double glazing, in addition to solar panels is a wonderful way to sell a house. Particularly in a built-up area where there is a lot of traffic. Extra layers of glass, double or even triple layers, can deaden or even eliminate most of this sound. This makes for pleasanter living.

Decoration

The way a house looks internally, when potential buyers are being shown round, can be all important to selling it, along with its outside features. That is, its size, shape, available parking, and accompanying land. Inside, mirrors can make a house look more spacious. They are capable of, by reflection, creating a kind of illusion of duplication and added length. Lighting can add colour to areas without having to repaint them. Paint can renew a wallpaper by having a wall look a different colour while still maintaining its texture. Colour combinations are important as there is nothing worse than colours that clash to divert the eye away from the good points of a property. For example, yellow and purple or orange and blue, which are opposites and so will guarantee to clash. Alternatively, using different shades of the same colour may not work. It is all about pleasing the eye. If your eyes are pleased, then the chances are so will the buyer’s. It is all about creating the right impression with all aspects of your house, as not everyone will want to have to completely redecorate when they move in.

Extension

Fitting an extension is all about adding extra buildings to a property. This will increase space and make a larger home for your family now, and potentially the larger family looking to buy your home in the future, should you decide to sell it. You do need to bear in mind, however, that unlike the fitting of solar panels, which merely become part of the roof, extensions will require planning permission to be sought. Then, if the extension should impact on someone’s view, you could have opposition to your plans. It is well worth the effort to increase space, though. A loft conversion can, of course, achieve this too, if you have a large garage that will house surplus items as well as vehicles.

There are ways to save space as well as make it, such as in-built fitted wardrobes and flat TV screens that fit onto walls. For further information on home improvement, the attached article explains how it is impacting on retail.

So, in short, there are a few ways to improve your home while you continue to live in it, and then, to impress a buyer should you wish to sell it. Solar panels for instance provide a fantastic opportunity for homeowners to save money on electricity bills while at the same time helping to save our planet and sustain it for the future.

Stove fans are tiny units that you place above your log burner or wood stove for it to supply a room with warm air from the stove’s heat. These units can enhance the warmth elicited from your stove considerably.

These units don’t need a battery or electricity to operate and feature radiating fins that begin functioning at elevated speeds once the fireplace starts heating up. The motor functions at its optimal level when it absorbs heat from above the fireplace.

A stove fan has numerous advantages. For instance, it decreases firewood costs, and you’ll need less firewood due to the continuous airflow into the fireplace. You’ll also discover this unit can offer air supply for prolonged hours. Fortunately, you can check out the best stove fans reviews that will maximise your stove’s heating efficiency.

What to Look for in a Stove Fan

Design

Numerous stove fans are significantly larger and appear like table fans. You shouldn’t purchase them because they consume too much space. Instead, opt for fans with a sleek and compact design. They not only consume less space but also appear stylish. You must consider the general aesthetics of your fireplace before purchasing the fan. Ensure the fan appears good on your fireplace.

Quiet Operation

Ensure you select a fan with a safety certification. You find that most companies offer BE EN 13240 certification. All manufacturers should have this certification in all stove fans.

Warranty

You should purchase from a place that offers a long-term warranty. It will permit you to service the unit without any extra expenses in case something goes wrong. Most providers offer a 2-year warranty on these units.

Reviews of Top Stove Fans

Valiant Premium IV 4-Blade Fan

Although this fan might appear tiny with 199 mm height, it functions efficiently. Its distinctly engineered design features superior radiating fins that produce over 70% airflow than the competitors. The design permits it to begin functioning at 450C; this is inferior to most models and spins faster.

The unit will continue operating to a maximum working temperature and comprises a safety element that will cut the unit off if it surpasses the maximum temperature.

Features

Unrivalled performance

The fan doesn’t need any batteries or external power. It pushes at 420 ft per minute; this makes it appropriate for electric fireplaces.

Compact Design

The model features a compact design, which makes it the most suitable accessory for a wood-burning stove. You’ll discover it can fit in constricted spaces and still offer sufficient airflow to sustain the fire.

Pros

· It doesn’t need batteries or external power

· It can only start at 450C, which is inferior to its competitors

· It comes with two years guarantee

Con

It’s 199 mm high; this might be unsuitable for particular wood-burning stoves

VonHaus 3 Stove Fan

This model comprises one of the most superior systems in stove fans, making it ideal for most wood-burning stoves. Moreover, it’s affordable.

Elements

Maximum Airflow

It features aluminium construction that has three blades offering maximum airflow. The blades make it lightweight. Therefore, you can store it in a corner throughout the summer.

Quiet Operation

The model doesn’t operate on electricity or batteries. Rather, it conducts heat from a fireplace and uses it for motor operation.

Automatic heat control

The model doesn’t disappoint in terms of performance, and the speed varies between 140 and 170 CFM. Additionally, its self-regulating design automatically alters the temperature in your room.

Pros

· The cost is a good deal considering the elements you get

· The thermoelectric module functions as the fan’s generator. This permits it to function without battery or electricity

Cons

· The size is slightly larger than other fans

Tomersun 3 Blades Heat Powered Fan

The compact heat-driven model uses thermoelectric technology to force warm air escaping via the chimney into a room. This helps increase the temperature while lowering the fuel consumption of the log burner. It doesn’t require any installation. You just have to position it on a flat surface above the stove.

Elements

Safety Elements

The model comprises an integrated bimetallic safety device beneath. The recommended operational range is between 85 and 350 degrees C because elevated temperatures might ruin it, making the warranty invalid. The safety device lifts the fan’s front once the temperature reaches 300 degrees C to protect the electricity and motor generating unit.

Efficiency

The model is very efficient and can push up to 180 CFM of air.

Pros

· It comprises a minimalist design

· Simple installation

· Its operation is very quiet

Cons

Its base isn’t magnetic, but the fan is stable

Stove fans maximise heating efficiency and have become popular for owners of wood and log-burning stoves. You just need to know the best stove fans to make an informed decision.

The kitchen is the busiest place in the entire home due to the daily cooking duties. As such, you might spend more time cleaning the utensils, electrical appliances, and other areas than you would spend cleaning other rooms. However, it’s impossible to do a deep cleaning of the kitchen daily due to everyday home chores. As such, several sections can get stained, greasy, and blocked in only one week. To avoid such, here are seven tips to save you hours of cleaning.

Deodorize Your Precious Kitchen Towels

Kitchen towels can hide lots of bacteria even when they look clean. Of course, if you’ve been using them. Such bacteria can cause severe diarrhea and other complications. Avoid such by deodorizing them. Use vinegar and baking soda to do so. You can hand wash or machine wash. Either way is just as effective as the other. Learn more about professional deep cleaning to do it thoroughly.

Use Squeegee To Remove Pet Hair

Pets’ hair on your sofas, carpets, curtains, or mats can be irritating, especially if it begins to stick on your clothes. However, removing it can be stress-free if you use a squeegee. So, gently rub the mat, carpet, or any other pet hair affected area using the squeegee. For the best results, rub it following the same direction, for example, right to left.

Wooden Cabinets

Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to clean grease and oil on the wooden cabinets. Regardless of what kind of oil you’re dealing with, these solutions work within seconds. It’s only safe to wear gloves when using the solution. This helps to keep your hands safe from the irritation that may be caused by hydrogen peroxide.

Granite Counters

Cleaning granite counters need care, especially when cleaning daily. In other words, only use mild dishwashing soap and some warm water. Use a sponge to clean so as to preserve the life of the granite. If doing the monthly cleaning, however, use vinegar and baking soda. Though the solution is not friendly to granite, it will remove stains and grease.

Oven

A clean oven is equal to less energy consumption and safe, clean food. Dust it and wipe away any food remains. Sprinkle baking soda and leave it for approximately thirty minutes. After that, it will be so effortless to wipe away any grease or grime. Please be cautious not to spray the heating elements with baking soda. If you’re not sure, you’ll be cautious enough, cover those elements. Also, only clean when it is cool.

Floors

Greasy floors are super dangerous. They’re the cause of many deaths and spinal cord injuries. Clean them in just a few minutes. Add warm water in a clean bucket. In it, add dish soap, vinegar, and washing soda. Carefully mix the solution and use it to clean.

Baking Sheets

Make a solution of hydrogen peroxide with white vinegar. Alternatively, you can use a solution of cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide. Apply enough of it on the pan. To effectively eliminate the grease and other stubborn stains, allow it 2-3 hours to weaken the stains. Deep clean a paper towel in water and wipe gently after that.

Motherhood means a bundle of ever-increasing responsibilities. Being responsible for your family, you are especially vulnerable to develop stress. However, no matter what the situation is, stress is not the solution to any problem. Instead, it can lead to many problems.

Here we are going to share with you some worthy advice to destress yourself.

What is stress?

Any sort of change that causes physical, emotional or psychological strain is called stress. If it is really cold outside and you start shivering, you are facing physical stress. However, the feeling of dejection on the loss of a loved one is emotional stress.

What does stress do to your body?

Stress causes the release of adrenaline hormone from the kidneys. This hormone prepares the body for fight and flight response. It causes the following changes:

· Dilated pupils

· A rise in blood pressure

· Rapid breathing

· Rapid heart rate

· Decreased blood supply to the stomach

· Increased blood supply to limb muscles

The symptoms, however, subside when the triggering factor is removed.

Physical effects of chronic stress

If not managed properly on time stress can be injurious to health. It can cause the following:

· Hypertension

· Diabetes

· Heart diseases

· Indigestion

· Generalized anxiety disorder

· Poor sleep

· Loss of appetite or increased hunger

· Decreased sex drive

· Fatigue

How stress affects your mood?

Stress affects mood in the following ways:

· A stressed person lacks motivation and focus.

· It causes irritability.

· A person feels overwhelmed.

· Eventually, depression and anxiety kicks in.

Effects of stress on behaviour

Stress alters the behaviour in the following ways:

· It increases the tendency to substance abuse.

· A stressed person withdraws himself socially.

· There is increase risk of suicide.

· The person may adopt a sedentary lifestyle and start exercising less.

How a stressed mother affects the family?

It is beyond any doubt that parents, especially mother, have a great influence on the family. A stressed mother has a negative influence on the family. Increased arguments and fights lead to an uncomfortable home environment. This affects the family both physically as well as mentally.

Effect of stressed mother on her kids

Children need a lot of parental attention. Moreover, they are greatly affected by the moods of family members as well as the home environment. They might not be able to share their feelings with you. But, the truth is, they become really upset because of an upset mother.

This overall scenario can affect your children as below:

· Mood disorders in children including anxiety, autism, ADHD and even depression.

· A tendency towards substance abuse.

· Poor performance in sports and studies.

· Aggressive behaviour and frequent fights with siblings and friends.

· Inability to make friends.

· Antisocial behaviour.

Factors leading to psychological stress

Stressors are different for different age groups. Moreover, everyone has their stressors based on their responsibilities as well as circumstances. Being a mother, a wife and a housewife, you are facing different stressors as compared to the rest of the family. Furthermore, being a working mom can add fuel to the fire.

Following are some major stressors for you:

1. Shortage of time

You have to juggle with a lot of responsibilities. So, time management is a big challenge for you. Doing the laundry, preparing food, cleaning the house and many more. Most of the women feel that they do not have sufficient hours in the day to complete their tasks.

The shortness of time overwhelms the mommies leading to stress.

2. Fulfilling relationship demands

For most of the mothers, it is very tough to create a balance between their children and other relationships. Children are demanding. They need a lot of time as well as attention. Their ever-increasing needs make it difficult to focus on other family members, friends and even partner.

Hence, the inability to maintain a balance leads to tension and stress.

3. Financial stress

It takes a lot of money to raise kids. They need shoes, food, toys, shelter, education and a lot of other stuff. So, it is very obvious for the mothers to get stressed for finances.

4. No time for self

Most of the mothers forget themselves while taking care of their family. They have no personal time. Hence, they get no chance to ponder on what their body and mind need.

5. Workplace stress

Tension magnifies when one has to manage a job along-with home. The workplace has its challenges that include:

· Work pressure

· Conflict with colleagues

· Competitive environment

· Uncooperative boss

6. Lack of family support

Life was never so busy like it has become nowadays. Everyone has to manage his routine and has no time to help others. This sense of isolation is one of the causes of worries among moms.

7. No support from partner

Unsupportive partner is one of the biggest problems many moms are facing around the globe. Raising children without partner support is a hell of a task. Moreover, if you are a single mom, it becomes more difficult. As you have to manage everything on your own including finances.

How to deal with stress?

Kill the stress before it kills you. Here are some tips for mommies to reduce their stress levels and live a better life:

1. Identify your stressors

A disease can be best treated if it is accurately diagnosed. Similarly, destressing begins after stressor identification. Try to figure out what makes you feel tense. You can also write it down for your ease.

Also, focus on your symptoms while stressed. Sometimes, we are stressed without even knowing that we are. If you notice the symptoms of stress, do not ignore. Moreover, probe the condition leading to those symptoms.

2. Have a realistic approach

Nothing like a ‘supermom’ exists. Try to accept that no one is perfect. You have to play the role of a mommy, a wife, a daughter, a friend and an employee. So, it is very difficult to tackle every responsibility flawlessly.

3. It is not selfish at all to have some personal time

We can understand that it is very difficult for a mother to pay attention to herself. Moreover, sometimes moms feel guilty if they take some time out for themselves. They feel as if they were ignoring their responsibilities.

However, that is not the case. It is perfectly normal to spend some ‘me-time’ It is good for your sanity.

You can have the following activities during your hours:

· Relish every sip of your favourite coffee.

· Pamper yourself. Have a massage or go to the salon and spa. Get your hair dyed or your nails done. You will feel better.

· Order food from your favourite restaurant and enjoy.

· Watch your favourite show or read your favourite magazine.

4. Add on herbs

Herbs are effective in relieving symptoms of stress. You can have green tea, peppermint tea, chamomile tea for relaxation. Moreover, essential oils are the best pick for you. Aromatherapy is proved helpful in reducing stress. Furthermore, you can use CBD buds and flowers.

5. Exercise regularly

This could be a family activity and you can involve your kids as well. Exercise increases the levels of happy hormones in the body and elevates the mood.

6. Deep breath and meditate

Deep breathing as well as meditation are also very helpful in destressing. If you feel overwhelmed or tensed, just take a deep breath and repeat.

7. Find a support group

Knowing that you are not alone helps to pacify your agitated mind. So, find a support group around you. You can share your problems as well as listen to other mommies.

Blurting out is good. Moreover, together you can make it work by figuring the solutions out.

Ever wondered why the flight attendants ask you to put on your oxygen masks first, then on children? There is a reminder that you can only take care of your family if you take care of yourself.

A healthy and stress-free mom will raise healthy and stress-free kids.

Your hair is indeed one of your most essential features. Honestly, it is okay to better the quality, thickness, cut, and volume of your hair if it is not precisely how you like it. If you intend to improve the hair on your hair or regrow some of the hair you have lost, why not try a few natural remedies?

Here, we have a few natural remedies that 100% work and stimulate hair growth. These can certainly accentuate the hair that you already have.

Massage your hair

Massaging your scalp is one of the best ways to stimulate your scalp and promote hair growth, comments Sonya, an associate who offers assignment help Australia. For best results, you can massage your hair in conjunction with hair masks and oils. Regular scalp stimulation can help you achieve thick and voluminous hair.

More so, regularly massaging your oil can also help you overcome stress and tension. Studies suggest that during a scalp massage, a stretching force is induced. This boosts hair growth.

Fish oil

Consuming omega 3 fatty acids can help better your hair from the inside, as it is protein and nutrient-dense. Alternatively, you can also consume Omega supplements in addition to the antioxidants. It helps better your hair diameter and density and prevents hair loss. These healthy fatty acids ensure that the cells work well and amplify your immunity, thereby improving your overall health. You can check the label to know about the recommended dosage.

Aloe Vera

For past many, many years, aloe vera has continuously been used as a prominent remedy for treating hair loss. Aloe vera has a soothing effect, and deeply conditions the hair, comments Roxy, an educator with a platform that accepts pay someone to take my online class requests. Aloe vera also performs a brilliant job at helping you get rid of dandruff. It does so by unblocking the follicles in your hair, which may be blocked because of excess oil.

Typically, you can apply the pure aloe gel around three to four times a week. Alternatively, you can even use a conditioner or a shampoo, which has aloe vera in it.

Viviscal

Another vital remedy for hair growth is Viviscal. It is a hair growth supplement, which helps boost hair growth in people who are experiencing hair thinning. This natural supplement has AminoMar C, which is a marine complex in it. It is composed of mollusk and shark powder, and vitamins and minerals. These ingredients help in strengthening the existing cells and stimulating new cells.

For best results, you need to take the supplement pills twice a day, every day for six months. Viviscal is also found in conditioners and shampoos.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a rich source of fatty acids. These infuse into the hair shaft and lower the protein loss from your hair. Depending on your hair texture and kind, you can apply the coconut oil either before or after the hair wash. If you have oily hair, you can leave the oil overnight or use it for about four to five hours before washing your hair.

While applying coconut oil, you need to ensure that you massage the oil both in your hair and the scalp. In case you have dry hair, you can leave it in for a while to ensure that your hair is thoroughly nourished and moisturized. Coconut oil promotes hair growth, helps better hair health, and gives it a natural sheen, comments Raun, an online math tutor.

Onion juice

If you are okay with the smell of onion juice, you should certainly try out this method to stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss. Onion juice is known to cure patchy alopecia areata by stimulating hair growth.

Further, the juice also betters the blood circulation to the cuticles. For preparing the juice, you can take a few onions and blend them to squeeze their juice. You can apply this juice directly to your scalp and leave it for about 15 minutes. After that, you can shampoo regularly.

Ginseng

Another way to stimulate your hair follicles and promote hair growth is by using ginseng supplements. Ginsenosides are ginseng’s active compounds, which are believed to have a significant impact on your hair. However, before taking this supplement, you need to read through the label and use it as directed. Also, examine for side effects, if any.

These are seven of the best home remedies for promoting hair growth. If you have any more remedies to add to the list, do let us know in the comment box below.