The state of Oregon is on the west coast of the United States of America. It’s mainly known for its agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing of high tech electronics. Since it’s agricultural and now transitioning to a manufacturing state, it needs storage units that need to be protected by garage doors. If you want a new garage door for your business or your house or just require repair and maintenance, you can get in touch with A1 Garage Door Service & repair in Hillsboro, OR. Investing in a new garage door can be beneficial for your business and add value to it.

• Agricultural and Industrial Sector

Oregon is known for its agriculture; it is also famous for the fishing industry. Recently Oregon started transitioning to a manufacturing state, mainly high-end electronics. These businesses require garages and storage units that have to be protected with new and modern garage doors. Having these garage doors can provide safe storing of your products.

• Weather Protection

While the summers are short, warm, and dry, the winters are a bit tough in Oregon. It drizzles almost daily from November to April, although it’s not heavy rainfall. Investing in a new garage door can ensure that the weather conditions do not damage any of your products and your car if the door is installed in your house.

• Energy Conservation

Investing in a new garage door, be it for commercial or domestic use, will surely save energy and extra money for you. These doors come with insulation, meaning your garage can be cooler in summers and warmer in winters. It especially is quite helpful during the winter times, when it’s mostly wet and overcast.

• Security

New garage doors are extremely secured; investing in one can guarantee you peace of mind, be it your business or your house. These doors are impossible to open without their owners; they are secured by two-way keys, biometric and conventional locking mechanism.

• Extra Storage

Installing new garage doors that roll up will definitely give your garage some extra room for storage. Apart from that, in the case of businesses, they can be used in the segregation of different items in an orderly manner, saving you a lot of time and also managing your inventory.

• Adding Value

Garage doors can add value to your business and especially your house. A new and modern garage door will definitely add some value to your house when selling. It can also be profitable to a business, first impressions are the last, and a new garage door will promise good things to the customers.

• Low Maintenance and Repair cost

Installing new garage doors can save you a lot of cash in the future in terms of maintenance and repairs. Since it’s a new door, it will almost certainly require less maintenance and repairs as compared to an old one.

Investing in a new garage door might seem like a strain on your wallet but it will surely save you a lot of extra money, time, and effort in the long run.

 

 

Heating and Cooling systems are very complicated and expensive that homeowners shouldn’t tamper with them easily. If there is maintenance such as cleaning or repairs that need to be done, it is always better to call an HVAC service provider that are experienced and trained to handle these kinds of problems.

The professionals can deal with safety hazards such as toxic refrigerants, and they can handle natural gas, oil, and electricity in HVAC systems. Before air conditioning was born, the job was just called “furnace repair” and not HVAC work. The structure of the ductwork and the flow of air were easily understood. However, as technology rises, even ventilation has a technology that needs to be studied before making repairs.

A contractor’s primary role is to improve your home’s safety, air quality, and comfort. The ones in Folkes Home Services will repair your clogged sinks and drains in no time at all. Plumbing and HVAC systems go hand in hand, so it’s better to find a professional who can do both to prevent more hassles.

Things to Look For

Many states require contractors to have licenses before they can operate. The applicants for the permit should have done the minimum hours required by the government, and they should have at least two years of experience when it comes to working with HVAC systems.

It’s essential to choose someone who has enough experience and competence in understanding how things work. They should have in-depth knowledge of combustion systems, refrigerant, airflow, and electrical wires that all work together for the comfort of the people living in the house.

Not only should one consider the comforts inside the home, but their safety is very important as well. Knowing how the home ventilation, pipes, and exhaust systems work together can prevent injuries and accidents.

There are cases when technicians were hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning, and this is one reason why homeowners need a professional. You can learn more about carbon monoxide poisoning on this site here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/carbon-monoxide-poisoning/. An HVAC system that was improperly installed can malfunction or even cause a fire in the house.

Checking the Licenses and Certifications

It helps if the HVAC contractor you’ll hire is licensed to do the job. They can help you make informed decisions regarding repairs or replacements. Verify the licenses by looking into government websites in your area or check your local county’s office. Most cities have their own specific requirements in obtaining licenses, and if you see your contractors on the list, then they are the right people to do the job.

Check on Angie’s List or any online databases for the name of the company that you are planning to hire. Local websites and states have a list of updated contractors allowed to operate in your area, so be sure to check them out as well.

Since the work of heating and cooling may require the installation of plumbing, the contractors may hold another separate license for plumbers. There’s a need to supply natural gas to furnaces and other heating equipment, and it’s convenient if you call someone who has the ability to do everything on the drainage and pipe systems. When you call several companies, you should ask for the license and the type as well.

Asking Questions

The furnace has malfunctioned in sub-zero temperatures, or the air conditioning suddenly stopped running on a hot day. Know more about what to do when the furnace is not working on this site here. You may have probably contacted the first repairman that you saw on the internet, and this is fine.

However, if you are doing a costly upgrade for air ducts of ACs and heating equipment, you must carefully research several companies before getting in touch with one. When you are in the process of interviewing, you can ask about the following:

Bond, Insurance, and License

Multiple states require HVAC contractors to have minimum education and training before operating as a company. They should have passed written exams conducted by qualified examiners.

To qualify and continue holding a license, many companies are required to have a bond with a minimum amount of insurance. This way, when a professional works inside your home, you will be protected from extra expenses when the technician gets injured. In case of accidents or hospitalization, liability insurance will cover the costs, and you will have peace of mind while they are working.

References

A company that has been doing HVAC work for the past years will have a long list of customers as references. These people can tell you how their experience was when working with the technicians and if the work was performed professionally and timely.

The previous customers can give you an idea of what to expect, and some will tell you whether they were satisfied with the work done on their HVAC systems. Call the numbers that the technician gave you as references and ask for details about how the project fared.

Get Estimates

Because it’s expensive to repair or replace HVAC appliances and components, you need to have at least three written estimates from at least four companies. Some may have known other suppliers, and they can get discounts. Others are familiar with the work that needs to be done, so you won’t have to replace the entire HVAC equipment.

The overall costs should be given much consideration, and they can be different from one company to another. Ensure that the details, overall scope, completion dates, and other important details are written on paper to prevent questions and misunderstandings later on.

Brand Associations

When seeking estimates in replacing pipes, fixtures, or HVAC equipment, you need to ask companies about the brands that they are carrying. Others may give you a small selection of trusted brands in the market, while others will abide by your decisions if you shop for those you prefer.

The contractors may be different from home improvement agents in terms of brand selection. Most HVAC contractors can work with any appliance brand that you decide to buy, while the home renovation experts may want you to get the same labels for a more uniformed look of the home. If you are making some price comparisons for newer equipment, you may have to limit your choices with companies who can work with the brand that you prefer.

 

Winter is one of the toughest seasons for homeowners across the United States. Though it means you’re able to play in the snow and enjoy warm beverages beside a roaring fire in comfort, it also means you’ll spend more on your energy bills each month.

Over the course of the winter, the average household spends between $500 and $1,500 to keep their homes comfortable. That can take a serious toll on your monthly budget if you’re not prepared.

The best thing you can do to keep your home comfortable without dramatically increasing your energy use is to take care of your HVAC system. Here are a few key HVAC maintenance tips to help you get your system ready for everything winter brings.

1. Unblock Your Vents

It’s normal for furniture to shift around throughout the year. While it can make your space more usable, changing the layout of each room can interfere with your home’s heating system.

How? By blocking the air vents that your HVAC system uses to send warm air into each room.

Before winter is in full swing, walk around each room in your home. Identify the location of each air vent in the space and make sure it’s clear and unblocked. If the furniture is in the way, consider moving it before you start using your heating system.

Remember, letting warm air blow on your furnishings throughout the winter will dry them out and shorten their lifespan. Worse, it will keep your home from getting warm quickly, thereby increasing your energy bills every month.

If you notice dust and dirt on the surface of the vents, clean them with a damp microfiber cloth or vacuum them with a brush attachment. This will help keep your indoor air quality higher throughout the winter months.

2. Check Your Air Filters

One of the best HVAC preventative maintenance tips you can follow is to check your air filters before the first freeze. Almost every central HVAC system has a series of filters in place to keep the air inside your home as clean as possible.

As your air conditioning system or heater turns on, it pulls air from outside your home. That air passes through the filters to remove contaminants like allergens, dust, mold, and plant debris before it has a chance to circulate throughout your house.

The more you use your system, the more debris those filters will catch. Over time, your filters will get dirty and the dirtier they get, the longer your HVAC system has to work to heat your home. That increases your energy use significantly.

Before the winter weather hits, inspect each filter in your home. If they look dirty, replace them with new filters as soon as possible. During the winter months, you’ll need to check those filters every month or two and replace them as needed.

3. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Even the most well-maintained and lightly used HVAC systems will experience wear and tear throughout the year. Over time, that wear and tear can lead to serious repair issues and cause your energy bills to increase dramatically.

The best thing you can do for your system is to schedule a professional tune-up before the temperatures drop. According to Schneider Mechanical, regular tune-ups can make your system more energy efficient and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns when you need it most.

During each tune-up, your repair technician will inspect your air conditioner and heater elements for damage. If they notice anything out of place, they’ll be able to make the necessary repairs quickly, so you’ll always have a reliable source of heat when the temps drop. Even better, they’ll be able to clean the unit so your heater will produce better, healthier warm air throughout the winter months.

Just make sure you work with a licensed repair technician every time. This way, you’ll be able to preserve your system’s warranty.

4. Inspect Your Thermostat

No matter what type of system you have in place, you need to make sure your thermostat is in good working order before winter. If it’s off or not working properly, you risk ending up with an overly cold house or an overly high energy bill.

Take a look at each thermostat in your house. Make sure the system turns on when you set the thermostat at specific temperatures. If it doesn’t or the system doesn’t stay on to reach your desired temperature, you’ll need to schedule a repair appointment as soon as you can.

If possible, you may want to upgrade your thermostat to a newer, programmable model. This allows you to set different temperatures at different points in the day. For example, you can set the temperature a few degrees lower than normal while you’re away and tell the thermostat to turn the heat up when you’re home from work.

Over the course of the winter, that simple change in temperature can save you hundreds of dollars on your energy bill.

5. Fix Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Drafts do more than make your home uncomfortable during the winter months. They also make your energy bill go up.

Even small leaks around your windows and doors can change the temperature in your home by several degrees. If left unrepaired, those leaks will force your HVAC system to work overtime just to keep your home comfortable. That means high energy bills every month and less comfortable rooms when it’s cold and windy.

The best thing you can do is repair those drafts ahead of time. Walk around your house and pay attention to any breezes or cold spots around the exterior doors and windows. If you notice any, try to patch them as thoroughly as you can.

If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, hire a contractor to inspect and repair the damage. They’ll be able to fix loose window panes and warped door frames quickly.

It’s also a good idea to cover your windows with curtains once it gets dark outside. This will help insulate your home against the cold weather and keeps the warm air from seeping out of your windows.

6. Clean Your Furnace Cabinet

For most homeowners, the main furnace unit that heats the house is in a designated cabinet or cupboard to keep it from getting damaged. Unfortunately, many homeowners end up putting items inside the cabinet during the warmer months.

After all, the furnace isn’t running and the cabinet makes a great in-home storage solution to reduce clutter. However, keeping all that stuff around your furnace when you turn it on in the winter isn’t a good idea.

Your furnace needs reliable and consistent airflow and circulation to work properly. If you’re keeping stuff in the cabinet, that stuff can interfere with the airflow and keep your furnace from running well.

Before you turn it on for the season, take the time to clean out the cabinet thoroughly. Move items that aren’t related to the furnace’s operation out. Sweep and vacuum the floor around the furnace to get rid of dust and debris.

These simple steps will help you keep your furnace running smoothly all winter long.

7. Cover Your AC Condenser Unit

Your home’s air conditioner unit is under constant exposure to the elements. This is fine during the warmer months, but it can be a problem when the temperatures drop.

Believe it or not, pests and rodents like to nest inside the condenser unit during the winter. It provides them with shelter and keeps them warm even when the air outside is freezing.

The best way to prevent those infestations is to cover your condenser unit with a fitted cover. Before you put the cover in place, take the time to clean the unit thoroughly. Use a spray nozzle attached to your hose to blast away dirt and debris and let the unit dry thoroughly.

Once the components are dry, cover the condenser and secure the cover as tightly as you can. Get in the habit of inspecting the cover every few weeks. If you notice it coming loose in the wind, adjust it as needed.

8. Pay Attention to Your Unit’s Age

No matter how well you maintain your HVAC system, it will eventually need to get replaced. In fact, the average HVAC system lasts for just 15 years with routine maintenance.

The older your unit is, the less efficient it will be and the more likely it is that you’ll need emergency repairs during the winter months.

Pay attention to the age of your unit. If you can’t remember when you got it installed or know that the system is more than 15 years old, you may want to replace it before winter weather hits.

When you replace the system, you’ll reduce your risk of unexpected breakdowns and will be able to take advantage of newer, more energy-efficient technology.

Use This HVAC Maintenance Checklist Now

Keeping your home’s HVAC system in good condition is the best way to make sure you stay comfortable during the winter months. Use these simple HVAC maintenance tips before winter hits and you’ll be on the right track to keep your unit running well all season long.

If anything happens to the system or you feel overwhelmed by your HVAC maintenance plan, don’t panic. Reach out to a licensed repair technician and let them take care of the checklist for you.

For more helpful tips and tricks to make navigating winter weather easier, check out our latest posts.

Did you know that almost 90% of American homes have problems with hard water?

Hard water isn’t harmful for human consumption, but it can cause problems in your home. For example, hard water can leave residue on your dishes and in your bathroom, cause skin and hair to dry out, and it can clog up your pipes and plumbing.

The simple solution is to get a water softener for your home. But how do you choose the right one? Read on to discover our tips on how to buy a water softener.

What Is a Water Softener and Do You Need One?

Hard water has high concentrations of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Water softeners are devices that can soften your water. This means they can remove the number and strength of minerals in your water, making it better for your consumption and use.

You might need a water softener if you or your family have experienced dry or irritated skin and hair. Other key signs to look out for include dishes with spots on, laundry that doesn’t look clean, and soapy residue stains in your bathroom or kitchen.

How to Buy a Water Softener

When it comes to buying a water softener that’s right for your home, there are a variety of things you need to do. The very first thing you need to do before you buy a water softener is to find out how hard your water is. This will help you determine which type of softener you need.

You can either contact your water supplier and ask about your water’s hardness or you can get a testing kit from a water testing company. Your water supplier should be able to advise you on how hard your water is and may even suggest which type of softener would be best for you. Alternatively, some people choose to get a home test kit from a water testing company and perform their own tests on the water.

The second thing you need to do is familiarize yourself with all the different water softener types. The different types include:

• salt-based ion-exchange softener
• salt-free softener
• portable water softener
• reverse osmosis softener
• magnetic softener
• and showerhead softener.

Different types might be better for your household use, budget, and how hard your water is. For example, salt-based ion-exchange softeners may save you money on cleaning products, prevent a buildup in your pipes, and ensure your hair and skin is healthier. However, in the long-term salt-based softeners may cost more because you’ll need to buy salt.

The third and final thing to do before you buy a water softener system is to look at the reviews, such as this Kenmore water softener review. Find out what other people have to say about the softeners and see if the one you’re thinking of getting is right for you.

Demand More From Your Water

You deserve high-quality water to drink, to clean in, and to clean with, which is why you should invest in a water softener. Follow our guide on how to buy a water softener and see if you can find your ideal softener.

Check out some of our other articles to get the latest lifestyle and family tips and tricks.

Witnessing a road accident is traumatic and can send a person into a panic. No one ever expects to be involved in an accident whether it’s witnessing one or being the driver. After the car accident, you may feel a sudden urge to help those involved in the crash.

With the right first aid tips, you could help someone feel safe and cared for. Knowing what to do in such a sudden situation isn’t always the easiest thing, however. There’s a lot going on in your mind and everyone else’s, so it’s important to do your best to remain calm and follow the best tips on first aid for accidents.

In the guide below, you’ll find a first aid guide for how to help support someone with an injury from a car accident. Continue reading to learn more!

1. Get Everyone to Safety

The very first thing you need to do before you can help anyone is get yourself and the people involved in the accident to safety. If the drivers can move their cars out of the road and into a safer place, have them do so. This will ensure your safety as well when you’re trying to help.

If they’re unable to move their cars, then you must check to see that all other drivers on the road are aware of the accident and have stopped before you approach the scene. Check for any signs of a possible fire and use the safety hazard lights if needed.

2. Check for Injuries

The next step is to check for injuries. Check all passengers for injuries. Remember, everyone’s adrenaline will be high and there may be injuries unnoticed by the person.

If there are multiple people, you want to check the people not making any sounds first. If someone is yelling, screaming, crying, or talking, then you know they’re breathing. If someone isn’t making any noise, then you want to check their breathing.

3. Contact Law Enforcement

When injuries are discovered, do contact the local law enforcement. Take a deep breath and call 911. You’ll need to explain the location of the accident and possible injuries.

When the ambulance arrives, local law enforcement will arrive as well or vice versa. Once on the phone with 911, they should be able to give you a few more tips about how to help until they arrive.

4. Make Minimal Movements

Upon seeing someone injured in an accident, your first instinct might be to immediately remove them from the vehicle or from the scene. If the person isn’t able to move on their own, you need to be careful about moving them as it can sometimes cause more injury.

Make minimal movements and only move someone if there’s an immediate risk, such as a fire.

5. Contact an Auto Accident Attorney

Luckily, there are attorneys whose specific job is to help those injured in car accidents. If someone is injured in a car accident, you should learn more about the type of help an attorney can provide.

A good attorney will ensure they receive the help and compensation they deserve.

Follow These First Aid Tips After an Accident

First aid tips are essential when wanting to help someone involved in an accident. Follow the tips listed above to ensure you and the accident victim are safe. Remember, if injuries are spotted, never hesitate to contact emergency services.

For other posts with helpful tips and a few other topics as well, be sure to visit frequently!