With outdoor air pollution being a continuous threat to your health, ensuring adequate air quality inside your home is more crucial than ever. Unfortunately, the warmer months only exacerbate the effects of the pollution – and not just because of the high temperatures. Spring and summer bring high pollen concentrations, increased water usage, and higher evaporation rates, causing humidity. Here is how to ensure your air quality remains good, despite warm and humid weather.

ELIMINATE POLLUTANTS

The first step in improving your air quality is addressing the pollution level, regardless of the temperature. Eliminate sources of smoke and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) such as formaldehyde. The latter is often emitted by glue used in new composite furniture, so you should opt for used pieces instead. The use of cleaning products and household chemicals should also be limited to reduce the level of compounds they emit. Lastly, try to eliminate any sources of allergens like mold, dander, and dust mites.

IMPROVE VENTILATION

While ensuring proper ventilation in your space is always necessary, it’s even more crucial when outdoor temperatures are higher. The best solution for this during the warmer months is using an air conditioning system. If you already have an HVAC system or AC unit installed, ensure you have it serviced regularly by a licensed professional. It is recommended that you do your research and only contemplate professionals who can verifiably provide a 5 star service for your specific type of air conditioning system. This also applies if you don’t have an air conditioning system and are just getting ready to install them.

REDUCE HUMIDITY 

An air conditioning unit will typically work for reducing indoor humidity as well. If it doesn’t, you either aren’t using it properly, or it’s not functioning as it should. Try to resolve these issues as soon as possible so your unit can resume eliminating humidity from your space – alongside common pollutants. Preventing evaporation and excess water use may also help you reduce humidity levels in your home.

USE AIR PURIFIERS

Even if your air conditioning system eliminates humidity and heat, you may still find indoor air pollution too high. If you aren’t able to eradicate all the pollution sources from your home, the next best option is to invest in air purifiers. Most of these come with a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter, which is more effective in removing parts from the air than traditional air conditioning units. These are particularly valuable for people suffering from allergies.

GET INDOOR PLANTS

House plants can also help you ensure you have good indoor air quality. Besides eliminating particles, greenery can also help you regulate humidity, oxygen, and carbon dioxide levels. Make sure to use plants with an increased air-purifying ability, such as Peace Lily or Dracaena, which can effectively combat the effects of high volatile compounds. That said, you will also need to ensure these plants don’t become the source of the problem by becoming moldy or releasing pollen.

The key to preventing humidity from aggravating air pollution in your home is to lower it as much as possible. Typically, this can be solved with an efficient air conditioning system. However, if needed, you can also employ other techniques like using an air purifier that helps eliminate the pathogens from the air. And, of course, you mustn’t forget about the natural air purifying quality of plants either. They will help regulate humidity and improve your comfort levels regardless of the indoor temperatures.

Whether you’re comfortable with your own skills or have decided to hire a contractor to remodel your home or other building space, preparing yourself and your belongings for the upcoming changes should be your main priority.

Remodeling your home is an exciting time for most homeowners, but it can become overwhelming once the chaos of disruption becomes evident. It isn’t the best idea to start your renovations without planning for dusty stairs, a busy hallway, or misplaced items. In addition to choosing the right contractor and knowing what you want, preparing for the remodel can make the process easier and more positive.

Some well-kept secrets to making your major remodeling entirely stress-free may not exist, but there are ways to ease the process, making your new space ready for instant use. 

CREATE A BUDGET

There’s no denying that remodeling is expensive and time-consuming. What happens if your contractor discovers unforeseen complications that require extra work, or you re-define design plans halfway through construction resulting in additional costs? Unless you’re cautious, your renovations might leave you with an unexpected bill, rendering you unable to finish the process. 

Ensure the entire project scope and budget are discussed in advance – with a little wiggle room for additional expenses if needed. Keeping remodeling and construction costs in check involves limiting changes and, if possible, buying smaller materials yourself. 

FIND SOMEWHERE TO STORE YOUR THINGS

Now that you have cleared out your house of items and furniture, you need to consider storage options. If you have a family member or friend willing to house your things until the remodeling is finished, that’s great. If you can store your stuff out of the way in your attic- even better. 

If you’re remodeling your entire house, or neither of the above options is viable, then finding a storage unit is your best bet. And usually, this is the safest and most practical option too. Almost all storage facilities offer a range of self-storage lockers and unit sizes to choose from. This means all your valuable assets and personal belongings are kept safe, secure, and, most importantly, clean.

DECLUTTER AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE

Prepare for the renovations by clearing the area of as many things as possible. If you’re doing a new floor or bathroom, debris and dust will get pretty much everywhere, and you don’t want to deal with excessive cleaning after you are ready to settle back in. 

If a whole room is being remodeled, you’ll need to remove any of your belongings from the area. Not only does this make things easier for you in the long run, but this also shows courtesy to the builders, who will appreciate not having to maneuver around your crystal collection or silky ottoman. To ensure your things aren’t damaged, pack away food and china from cabinets, disconnect electrical items, and relocate items from the floor space. 

PREPARE FOR THE EXCESS DIRT 

During the process, there will be a lot of dirt and dust. And it can get everywhere. If you’re having an upstairs bedroom remodeled, prepare to find dust gathered on the downstairs bookcase on the opposite side of the house. 

Regarding cleaning, some may decide to hold out against cleaning if work is to continue for the next few weeks. Dust will more than likely return the next day or gather again during the night, so you don’t want to waste your time recleaning. On the other hand, others may find it difficult to ignore the mess and get the hoover out as soon as possible. 

The good news is that you can minimize the mess with a few simple steps. Corner off the remodeling area by hanging plastic sheets from the ceiling to help protect the walls in the rest of your house from gathering dust. It’s a good idea to lay down drop sheets along your stairs or carpeted areas. Spilled wine or muddy footsteps are difficult enough to remove, let alone dirt and grime ingrained in the entirety of your plush carpets. 

Think of your remodeling preparation like this. Before painting your house, anyone will know the preparations are difficult and tedious. But, after you have peeled and stuck the masking tape along with the ceiling and skirting boards, you have perfectly straight paint lines meaning you’ve done the job right. 

Renovations should follow this method of forethought as well. So it’s crucial to make the proper preparations suitable for your needs. Taking time to prepare for the likely construction site-like environment that your home will become will save you time and stress in the long run so that you can fully enjoy your new and improved home when it’s all done.

Home is where the heart is. It’s a place of comfort, relaxation, and personal expression. But sometimes, even the most loving homes can start to feel a little stale. If you require a fresh start, don’t despair – there are plenty of simple ways to give your home a new lease on life. A few small changes can make a big difference, from brightening up tired walls to updating old furniture.

Making simple improvements to your home can greatly impact its overall look and feel. Whether you want to update the décor in a specific room or give your entire home a makeover, there are plenty of easy ways to do it. Here are some fresh ideas to get you started.

1. GIVE YOUR WALLS A FRESH COAT OF PAINT

One of the quickest and easiest ways to transform any room is with a lick of paint. Whether you go for a statement wall or opt to paint the whole room, a new coat of paint can work wonders. If you’re unsure what color to choose, why not try something neutral like white or grey? These colors are perfect for creating a blank canvas that you can then accessorize with pops of color.

You can also use paint to update old furniture. If you have a piece of furniture you’re no longer in love with, give it a new life by giving it a fresh coat of paint. This is an excellent way to add a splash of color to your home without spending much money.

2. CHANGE YOUR WINDOW TREATMENTS

Window treatments can make a big difference to any room. If you’re tired of your curtains or blinds, why not try something new? There are many different options available, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style. To learn about the many options, you can visit the site of your local hardware stores or craft stores. You could also try something unique, like a set of DIY fabric shades or bamboo blinds. Alternatively, you could opt for something classic like wooden shutters or more modern like roller blinds. 

Patterned curtains are another great option if you want to add a pop of color. And if you’re looking to let in more light, consider replacing heavy curtains with lighter shades.

3. UPDATE YOUR FURNITURE

Another easy way to give your home a new look is to update your furniture. If your furniture looks a little worse for wear, it might be time for an update. This doesn’t mean you need to replace everything – simply rearranging your existing furniture can make a big difference.

And, if you are planning on buying new pieces, choose items that will stand the test of time. Opt for classic styles in neutral colors that will work with any future décor changes. A classic sofa or armchair can last for decades, so it’s worth investing in pieces you’ll love for a long time.

4. BRING IN SOME GREENERY

Bring the outdoors in by adding some plants to your home. Adding some greenery to your home is a great way to liven things up. Plants not only look great, but they can also help purify the air and improve your mood. If you don’t have a green thumb, there are plenty of low-maintenance options available or opt for artificial plants that look just as good as the real thing.

Scattered around the house, plants can help inject some life into any room. And, if you don’t have a lot of space, you can always go for a potted plant that you can place on a windowsill or shelf.

5. ADD SOME ACCESSORIES

Updating your accessories is a quick and easy way to change the look of your home. From cushions and throws to rugs and artwork, there are plenty of ways to add personality to your space. And, if you’re on a budget, don’t worry – you can find plenty of affordable accessories at stores like Target or IKEA. Just a few simple changes can make a big difference to any room.

You can also add some personal touches by displaying family photos or heirlooms. This is a great way to add character to your home and make it feel more like your own.

So, there you have it – five simple ways to give your home a new look. Whether you’re planning a big update or just want to make a few small changes, these tips will help you achieve the look you desire. With a little time and effort, you can bring new life to your home without breaking the bank. So why not try out some of these ideas and see the difference they’ll make?

As a homeowner, you may be used to handling minor issues with your home on your own, and this might easily extend to your plumbing systems. There is no question that at some point in your life, you have been in a situation in which you needed to use some elbow grease and a plunger to unclog a toilet, or you needed to pull a hair blockage out of a drain or two. Many do-it-yourself enthusiasts with good intentions attempt more difficult plumbing repairs.

Standard heat pump installation in Orange County needs the appropriate expertise and necessary licensure to perform correctly. Even apparently basic improvements, such as stubborn clogs, might benefit from the attention of a professional plumber. If you try to save costs by doing plumbing repairs on your own rather than calling a professional, this might cost you more money in the long run. Here are the top three reasons why you should fight the impulse to self-diagnose and self-repair the plumbing issue in your home and instead contact a professional licensed plumber for assistance

AVAILABILITY OF MORE CAPABLE EQUIPMENT:

It is true that the plumbing remedies available for purchase in stores are not only inexpensive but also “cure” a wide variety of plumbing issues. On the other hand, this almost always indicates that they use approximate measurements. That is to say, even if they provide a short-term solution to the problem in the form of a band-aid, they do not fix the issue altogether. Therefore, the identical problem may surface once again in the not-too-distant future. Consider the use of chemical drain cleaners as an example.

You may be aware that they “clear out” a clog, but were you also aware that they may accumulate in your system and cause obstructions there? Not only that, but the chemicals in these store-bought cleaners are corrosive, which means they can eat away at your plumbing, which will result in an expensive repair or pipe replacement when you could have called a plumber who has access to the tools to remove a clog and prevent it from occurring again effectively. Not only that but using these store-bought cleaners is a bad idea because they can eat away at your plumbing.

ADEQUATE INSTRUCTION:

Unprofessional plumbers don’t have to undergo the rigorous formal training our professional plumbers do to get their licenses. Similarly, most do-it-yourself plumbers, amateurs or homeowners, lack expertise. Because of this, it may be difficult for them to fix the issue, and it can also be difficult to identify the root of the problem accurately. In the best-case strategy, this may result in a significant amount of time and effort being lost, and in the worst-case scenario.

More harm might be done to your home’s plumbing if this happens. However, if you employ a professional with the appropriate state licensure, you can be confident that they can correctly diagnose and fix a broad range of plumbing issues. This sort of training and the knowledge gained by dealing with cases comparable to yours every week assures that the repair session will be practical and correct.

INSURANCE:

When you try to do plumbing services on your own, one of the most significant drawbacks is that you are responsible for paying for any extra damage that may occur as a result of the repairs that you make. If anything goes wrong, or if you didn’t effectively analyze the situation to begin with, it might wind up costing you far more money than you had anticipated it would.

On the other side, if you choose a licensed and bonded plumber, they will have the appropriate insurance, which means that your property will be protected if anything unforeseen occurs. Most competent plumbers give estimates in advance, so you know how much of a blow your wallet will take. On the other side, you could be pleasantly pleased to find out that the repairs will not be as expensive as you anticipated. Without having a skilled plumber handle your repairs, you won’t be able to achieve this level of peace of mind.

PROFESSIONAL HEAT PUMP INSTALLER CAN DO WHAT AN AMATEUR CAN’T:

ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS:

To overcome this critical challenge standing in the way of your comfort is the task of having a heat pump-sized. Incorrect sizing of your heat pump might cause it to suffer from short-cycling, ultimately breaking down much sooner than was initially expected. To accurately measure this, you will need specialized equipment that a trained specialist can only operate.

HIGHER LEVELS OF PRODUCTIVITY:

When you hire a professional for your heat pump installation in Orange County, they will have the knowledge and expertise to do it effectively. We can install heat pumps more efficiently than amateurs since our business has provided us with many best practices and trade secrets. They may not appear like much individually, but when added together, they can add up to significant savings for homeowners working with a limited budget.

ENSURING THAT IT IS FUNCTIONAL:

Even if this feature of expert installation services could not strike you as very significant, having it is fantastic. Thus we remain to make sure that your system functions properly. When you sign up for professional service, you are guaranteed a system that works appropriately since your satisfaction directly affects your own.

THE WARRANTY ON THE SYSTEM:

The warranty on many heat pumps is contingent on the installation being carried out by a qualified professional; failing to do so may result in the guarantee being rendered null and invalid. Ensure that the most qualified specialists are hired to install your heat pump so that you don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself to succeed.

CONCLUSION:

Heat pumps are remarkable pieces of technology; nevertheless, if you believe that you can install your heat pump, you are seriously incorrect and should seek the assistance of a professional. We would want to have a more in-depth discussion regarding the advantages you may anticipate from installing a heat pump that a qualified specialist carries out. A professionally installed heat pump will provide you with peace of mind and help you avoid the need for costly repairs in the future. In extreme circumstances, a substandard heat pump installation in Orange County performed by an amateur might result in the market for a replacement in as little as two years.

Author Bio:- Angela Louise

Angela is a marketing manager at EZ Plumbing USA. She has a great interest in educating readers about various leakages that can happen in their home or offices through her articles. With extensive knowledge of water leak and slab leak detection techniques as well as HVAC systems, Angela wants to make readers aware about the warning signs indicating leakage and predictive AC and Heater maintenance and also how to fix them to refrain from dangerous and costly consequences.

Read articles to get more valuable information about detection and damages of water and slab leak repair, techniques to fix clogging, and installation and maintenance of AC & Appliance in San Diego. 

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Buying a new home in Illinios is a thrilling process, and there is no doubt about that. Every step brings a dose of excitement, from looking for properties trying to pinpoint the perfect home, envisioning your family in it, and daydreaming about your new life there to the signing of all the paperwork. However, there is also a different side of the medal. Some things in the home-buying process are not that enchanting. Still, you must get to them to ensure a successful purchase. For instance, you must inspect the property you are interested in so you know the house is in good condition. And the HVAC system is one of the points on the list of things to pay special attention to. Therefore, here is why it’s crucial to do it and how to inspect the HVAC system when buying a new house.

REASONS TO INSPECT THE HVAC SYSTEM WHEN BUYING A NEW HOUSE

A considerable chunk of your energy bill goes to heating and cooling your house. Thus, it’s essential to make sure everything functions properly, so you don’t have to pay more than necessary. So, if you want to reduce your future energy bills, inspect the HVAC system in the house. You may discover some issues that affect its energy efficiency. Such things could also allow you to negotiate a lower price as you would have to repair the problem should you decide to purchase. Alternatively, you can arrange with the owner to fix the issue for you. 

Furthermore, during the regular home inspection, the inspector doesn’t thoroughly inspect the HVAC system. Instead, they will turn it on and off to check if it works and that it is. Thus, they may miss some underlying issues that will cause you problems later. Knowing that purchasing a new residential HVAC system is costly and how a faulty system can affect your energy bills, proper inspection is essential. Also, it may be best to hire specialists to handle this for you, as they have the skill and expertise to uncover all possible pitfalls. 

TIPS FOR INSPECTING THE HVAC SYSTEM WHEN BUYING A NEW HOUSE

Here are some suggestions for examining the HVAC system in the home you like. You can do these yourself, but be advised that professional assistance is highly advisable.

VISUALLY EVALUATE THE HVAC EQUIPMENT

Furnaces, boilers, and air conditioning units are typically hidden away from sight. Thus, you have to remember to take a look at them. First, check if the equipment looks good, although the appearance itself may not unravel any underlying problems. Look for cracks, water stains, rust, dents, and other damage. Then, pay special attention to any strange noises. Clanking and hissing often indicate there is an issue.

ASK THE OWNER ABOUT THE HVAC SYSTEM’S AGE

Like everything else, HVAC equipment, too, has a limited lifespan. Systems that are about 15 years old are due for replacement. So, you can negotiate a discount if you are still interested in the house. 

Know that heat pumps, furnaces, boilers, and air condition units can often work even longer than 15 years, especially if they have undergone regular maintenance. However, there are always new energy regulations, and we all know how quickly technology advances. So, more modern equipment will be more energy-efficient and more cost-efficient.

ASK TO SEE MAINTENANCE RECORDS TOO

Regular maintenance for this type of equipment is essential. It keeps it functioning correctly. So, if you like the house, request the HVAC maintenance records. The owner shouldn’t have trouble showing them to you if they have performed regular check-ups.

Pay special attention to the work that has been done. See if there have been any frequent repairs. Also, some extensive repairs like compressors and blower motors can indicate more serious problems in the future, especially if it’s an older system. The team behind verifiedmovers.com argues that this is a common oversight people make when moving into a new home.

CHECK THE DUCTWORK

Aside from the equipment, you should also inspect the ductwork and make sure it’s in good shape. Gaps, condensation, and loose connections are a sign of trouble. Also, this may sound a little nitpicky, but if you notice a fair amount of dust on the ductwork, it is a pretty clear sign that the owner hasn’t maintained it properly and regularly. So, it may mean you will have to upgrade the system shortly after you have moved in. 

Moreover, if you notice that the air quality is good inside the house, it probably means that the owner has invested in some air-quality add-ons. For example, these can be an air purifier or a dehumidifier. And that is a very good sign. However, if the indoor air quality is less than great, you are in for HVAC cleaning, and you will likely have to invest in some additions to increase airflow.

CHECK WHICH REFRIGERANT THE SYSTEM USES

Older HVAC systems may use R-22. But, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned this substance, and since 2020, it’s been illegal to produce it. So, even if the system operates well, you will have to upgrade it pretty soon.

PAY ATTENTION TO COMFORT LEVEL THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE

As you tour the house, notice how comfortable you feel in every room. You will know there is a problem if the house feels stuffy and hot even with the AC working or if it feels chilly and the heating is on. But, if you notice that only some rooms feel uncomfortable, that is also a sign of trouble. There could be an issue with the delivery system. For instance, there could be a leak, or the ducts are not insulated. 

INSPECT THE HVAC SYSTEM BEFORE YOU PURCHASE A NEW HOUSE, EVEN IF YOU ARE MOVING LONG-DISTANCE

It may be tricky to inspect the HVAC system before purchasing a new house if you live far away. However, long-distance moves are challenging enough, and you don’t need any unpleasant surprises when you arrive and start settling in. If you have found reliable and reputable help to get you to your new Illinois home, the whole relocation process will go smoothly. But to ensure the settling-in process goes just as well, make sure you check everything thoroughly. 

FINAL WORDS

It’s essential to inspect the HVAC system when buying a new house. It will save you a lot of trouble later, both in terms of your nerves and finances. And again, if in doubt, or if you notice something that concerns you, you will be better off contacting professionals to inspect everything for you. 

 Meta: Learn how to inspect the HVAC system when buying a new house, so you can move in and start settling in without any unpleasant surprises.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry