Don’t Get Caught in a Heatwave: 5 Signs That Your AC Is About to Go Out

29 March 2019

Air conditioners cost Americans homeowners about $29 billion each year. But of course, you don’t want to pay for a new home AC until you have to.

Read on for a list of 5 signs that you need emergency AC repair before a heatwave strikes.

1. Not Enough Cool Air:

Is your home AC running and running but the air streaming from the vents just isn’t cold?

A sign that you have a broken AC is when it begins to blow hot or warm air. It might mean that your AC has a problem with the compressor. Or the Freon levels are too low.

Even if the air is cool but not as cold as it used to be, it’s time to consider air conditioning installation.

2. High Utility Bills:

As your AC unit gets older, it becomes less efficient. Each year, a unit’s efficiency goes down a little bit. When an AC reaches around 10 years, it may be half as efficient as it was when new.

If you keep getting high utility bills, it’s time to look at the condition of your home AC.

3. Little Air Flow:

You hear the AC unit kick on, but when you put your hand in front of your AC vent, you only feel a slight push of air.

Lack of air flow will cause some parts of your home to get cooled air but not others. Usually, low airflow means there is a problem with your compressor.

But it could also be a problem with the ductwork in your house. Especially if you aren’t in the habit of getting regular vent cleaning.

4. Strange Sounds:

Another way to know that you need AC repair is if you start to notice strange sounds and smells coming from your home AC unit.

There are all sorts of sounds you might hear such as grinding, squealing, grating or squeaking. These noises are signs that things are wrong inside your unit.

A high squealing sound means that your AC belt has come loose. Or that one of the metal parts in the unit needs lubrication.

Grinding noises tend to mean that the bearings in the motor are broken.

You may be able to get your AC repaired if you act quickly. Wait too long and you may need to replace the entire system.

It’s best to have a licensed HVAC technician come to your home to inspect your unit every year. This way your technician can alert you to possible issues that could crop up if left unattended.

It’s wise to use a springtime monthly home checklist so you can be aware of the conditions in and outside your home.

It’s often cheaper to repair or replace the part then let the problem go on for a long time.

5. Bad Smells:

A strong stinky smell flowing out from your AC vents is a bad sign. It can mean that the wire insulation has burnt out.

Musty smells coming out of the vents typically mean there are mold and mildew either in the ducts or in the AC unit. Mold can cause respiratory illness. You should have this issue fixed as soon as possible for the health of your family.

Final Thoughts on Home AC Warning Signs:

We hope these 5 home AC warning signs will help you avoid an AC malfunction during a heat wave.

Remember, it’s better to maintain your AC than it is to neglect it and pay for costly repairs.

Now that the warmer weather is here, check out these 10 pest control tips to keep pests out this summer.

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Four Basic Types of Water Flow Meters

A water flow meter is a measuring device specifically used to measure the amount or volume of water passing through pipes. If you are looking for a water flow meter for an industrial application, you can choose from different technologies which suit varying budget allocations, measurement requirements, and maintenance complexity. According to the working principle of each type of water flow meter, you can better determine which type best suits the intended application. Here are the four types of water flow meters used today. Different Types Of Water Flow Meters That Can Work Well In Your Favor There are several types of water flow meters that can work well in your favor. Do not make your choices without examining the things in the right order. Try to achieve your objectives in the best possible ways that can work things well in your way. 1. Mechanical water flow meters A mechanical flow meter is the simplest, cheapest, and easiest to operate. These devices consist of a paddlewheel, propeller, and turbine. The turbine which rotates around the flow meter measures the speed of water flowing through the pipe. By measuring the speed of rotation, you can also get the corresponding volume of flow rate because it is directly proportional to the speed. While mechanical flow meters are simple to use, they are prone to clogging and will not work efficiently when water has large particles and other contaminants. These are also not suitable for measuring water flow rate when the pressure is too low. 2. Ultrasonic water flow meter An ultrasonic flow meter uses ultrasound in measuring fluid flow speed which then corresponds to the volume of flow. The working principle of a basic ultrasonic flow meter is that the device transmits a signal in the same direction as the fluid flowing downstream, and another ultrasonic signal is emitted against the upstream fluid flow. The amount of time it takes for the signal to travel downstream is compared with the amount of time it takes for the signal to travel upstream. The difference produced will be used in calculating the fluid velocity. 3. Magnetic water flow meter In contrast with ultrasonic flow meters using ultrasound signals, a magnetic water flow meter uses a magnetic field for measurement. When any liquid passes through a magnetic field, it will generate a voltage. The faster the fluid moves, the more voltage is produced. As such, the amount of voltage is directly proportional to the water's movement and speed. There are corresponding electrical parts which translate the voltage into a volumetric measurement. One limitation of a magnetic flow meter is that it only has intermediate accuracy. Aside from this, it cannot measure pure water due to lack of ions which will not produce the necessary magnetic field reaction. 4. Vortex water flow meter The working principle of this type of flow meter uses vortices coming from a sensor submerged in the fluid. As water passes through this sensor or obstruction, it creates swirls, and the sensor will move from side to side with each passing vortex. This continuous movement creates a frequency which is also directly proportional to the flow rate volume. There are vortex flow meters which can measure multiple variables such as density, pressure, mass flow, temperature, and flow rate. While all these flow meters are suitable for measuring water flow, choosing a flow meter still depends on the desired application because each type will still have limitations, and some work best in certain conditions. Final Words Hence, these are some of the essential factors that you have to take care of while you want to select the best water flow meters that can work well in your favor. Ideate your plan in such a way that can work well in your favor. Try to achieve your goals in the best possible ways. Do not plan things in grey as it can help you to achieve your objectives in the best possible ways. Selection of the right water flow meters can help you to channelize the flow of water in the right pod. Develop the correct business strategy that can work well in all aspects. Read Also: Some Facts You Need To Know About Rainwater Harvesting 8 Plumbing Myths Busted

How To Prepare Your Home For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges

When you live in a storm surge-prone area like New Orleans, the safety of your home and cherished belongings is always a concern. The city’s proximity to water makes it particularly vulnerable to extreme weather, including hurricanes and the accompanying storm surges. However, protecting keepsakes during storm surges is a major issue. In this article, you will learn why how to protect your keepsakes during storm surges. Here, you will get five useful tips that are easy to follow. However, before that, you will learn a few details about storm surges and what to do in such situations. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. Staying Prepared Before Storm Surges Generally, storm surges affect your building’s foundations. This happens due to high water piling because of tropical cyclones, which results in constant agitation in the building. With time, it can result in complete demolition of homes and commercial buildings. Moreover, if the storm is bad enough, you need to evacuate and move inland for safety. In such cases, you have to plan ahead for such possibilities. However, to save your valuables, you can keep large rubber storage containers. In those containers, you have to place your photos and mementos. This will help you take them while you evacuate the place. Apart from that, you must have extra plastic storage containers to gather jewelry, mementos, and other photos. Also, try to place those containers in the attic if you get the news of an upcoming flood. Additionally, you can also keep your necessary documents in a fire-proof safe. Moreover, check them to ensure that they are water-proof as well. This will prevent water from entering the safe it the building submerges in a flood. On the other hand, you must also shut off your electricity at the circuit brakes. This will help your appliances from short circuits. 5 Tips For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges While securing your property is essential, safeguarding your irreplaceable keepsakes—like family photos, heirlooms, and old home movies—requires proactive steps. The following are some essential tips for protecting keepsakes during storm surges: 1. Identify Valuable Keepsakes The first step in protecting keepsakes during storm surges is to identify which items hold the most sentimental or practical value. For instance, family photos, handwritten letters, heirlooms, home videos, and important documents often top the list. Generally, in New Orleans, homes may face repeated flooding risks. Hence, creating an inventory of these items ensures you know what to prioritize. Therefore, you must take time to review albums, VHS tapes, film reels, and other family treasures. Moreover, once you identify your most valuable keepsakes, it becomes easier to plan their protection. 2. Store Keepsakes In Waterproof Containers Generally, storm surges bring a high risk of water damage. Hence, you must always store your keepsakes in waterproof containers. Use sealed plastic bins, waterproof bags, or specialized storage boxes for delicate items like photographs and letters. However, if you need extra protection, consider fireproof and waterproof safes to shield irreplaceable items from both water and heat. For instance, in a flood-prone city like New Orleans, it’s important to seal containers properly. Also, store them away from low-lying areas. 3. Elevate Keepsakes Above Flood-Prone Areas Elevation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your keepsakes. In a city with a history of flooding, storing items in basements or on ground floors is risky. Instead, place keepsakes on higher shelves, upper floors, or in attics well above expected flood levels. In fact, for long-term storage, elevated cabinets or specially designed storage units can provide peace of mind. Basically, they will prevent water damage during high-water events. 4. Digitize Important Items One of the most effective ways to protect family memories is by digitizing them. For instance, you can scan photos and documents. Then, you must covert old VHS tapes or film reels. Thereby, you can create digital backups that can’t be harmed by water or storms. I live in New Orleans, and using local digitization companies was a smart choice for me. Actually, these professionals understand the importance of preserving family memories in a city with a high risk of natural disasters. Whether you need high-quality scanning for photos or video conversion services, these companies can help digitize your most treasured items while handling them with care. In fact, once you digitize your files, you can store them securely in cloud storage. As a result, you can ensure they are accessible. Apart from that, you can protect them even if you lose the originals. 5. Create An Emergency Evacuation Plan In the event of a major storm, you must have a clear evacuation plan. Moreover, you must include your most important keepsakes in your plan, both physical and digital. Also, prepare a “go bag” with waterproof containers for physical items. Make sure to have a USB drive or external hard drive containing your new digital files. Actually, if you prepare in advance, you can quickly grab what’s most important. Thereby, you can ensure your irreplaceable memories are safe. Additionally, cloud-stored backups of digitized items allow you to access them from anywhere. This helps even if you are displaced for an extended period. Conclusion If you follow these tips, protecting keepsakes during storm surges in New Orleans will not be a big problem. Basically, New Orleans has a unique geography and vulnerability to storm surges. Hence, protecting keepsakes is a critical part of disaster preparation. Hence, start by identifying your valuable items. Then, store them securely in waterproof and elevated locations. After that, digitize them for long-term preservation. This way, by planning for emergencies, you can safeguard your cherished memories. Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to take action. Start digitizing your family photos, videos, and documents today to ensure your memories are preserved and protected for generations to come. Preparing now means peace of mind later, no matter what the weather brings. Do you have more suggestions for protecting keepsakes during storm surges? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below. Read Also: Best Carpet Maintenance Practices 6 Expert Tips for Finding The Right Home to Buy How To Approach Home Maintenance With A Focus On Well-Being

8 Smart House Upgrades that are Totally Worth the Money

Looking to add a little resale value to your house? Choose wisely! Some house upgrades are worth it, but not all of them are a great investment. Smart house upgrade is essential for your lovely home. Upgrade your home the right way. Increase the value of your home with smart upgrades that return your money and then some! Different ways Smart House Upgrades can make things easier for you. 8 Smart House Upgrades that Pay Off Here are some of the best ways to upgrade your home and increase the resale value. These 8 ideas are totally worth the money! 1. Clean, Fresh Paint: When a buyer walks in, they want to see bright, clean rooms. Your paint has a lot to do with how the sunlight affects a room. A fresh paint job can brighten any room in the house. You don't necessarily need to go neutral, but your choice in paint colors can affect your potential buyer's feelings about your house. If you're not selling just yet, the right colors can also help lighten your own mood. Choose a palette that you like. But, don't stop there. Make sure it compliments your home's age, style, and architecture. Check out these ideas for a modern look! 2. Modernize the Kitchen: Look at the age of your appliances and countertops. Are they in poor repair or stained? If so, you should consider replacing them. Here's a list of kitchen upgrades that you can benefit from. Newer, energy efficient appliances Countertops that suit the space Refinish cabinets Tile backsplash Sink upgrades Accent paint Save some cash! Check out dent and scratch or discontinued appliances. Discontinued tile can be used to make an attractive backsplash, too. You can get huge savings from buying these options. Look for ways to accent and offset countertops and cabinets in your kitchen for a more modern look. Check out paint pallets that give your kitchen a pop of color and make your cabinets stand out. 3. Programmable Thermostat: This is such a simple upgrade, but it gives your house a modern feel. Programmable thermostats are affordable and easy to install. Many are also easy to manage from your phone! An added bonus for installing a programmable thermostat is instant energy savings on your electric bill! 4. Upgrade Bathrooms: Ugly bathrooms can send a potential buyer out the door. Check out your bathrooms for any of these problems and fix them! Stained toilet bowls and seats Leaky faucets Outdated fixtures Old tile and paint Evidence of flooding Damaged cabinetry You can easily and affordably upgrade a bathroom by switching out any old fixtures and lighting. But, making sure the bathroom is clean and in good working order is a priority. 5. Landscaping: Ever heard of curb appeal? This house upgrade is a must. The first look a buyer has as they walk to your front door can influence their opinion about the whole house! Walk outside and check your landscaping, in the front and the back of your home. Consider these upgrades for landscaping your home. In the front: Clean, groomed lawn Flowers and shrubs that are trimmed Trees that cut back and look nice A walkway that invites people to come in In the back: A patio or deck for entertaining Trees and flowers for privacy and color Fences in good repair Clean, groomed lawn A small gardening area Your landscaping matters in the value of your property. It should be well maintained and easy to upkeep. Good landscaping invites you to come out and enjoy the outdoors! 6. Install Solar Panels: Nothing is more attractive to a potential buyer than the idea of their new home saving them money. If you've already installed solar panels, then you've given them a step up in that direction. Solar power is a responsible energy choice and it will save you money in the long run. That's good for you while you live in your home. It's great for potential buyers, too. Your new buyer will instantly save on energy costs. You've already made the investment for them! This increases the value of your home and makes the buyer more willing to pay the price you are asking. 7. New Flooring: You've got fresh paint and clean rooms, but your flooring is filthy and worn. That won't work when you sell your home. Take a look at high traffic areas, carpets, and tiles. Is anything stained, worn or broken? If so, you need to replace it. Look for neutral carpet colors. You want any type of furniture or paint to work well with your choice. Avoid white or extremely pale colors because they are so hard to maintain. If you are replacing only one room of carpet, try to make it closely match what is already in the house. Nothing looks worse than mismatched carpet. Tile can be a really affordable upgrade. It should be easy to maintain, durable and neutral. Make sure stone tile doesn't have a lot of nooks and crannies for dirt to hide. You can even get a tile that looks like wood! Take a look at options in your hardware store. Save yourself some cash! If you are replacing a whole house of carpet or tile, try to find discontinued items at your local hardware store. They may be cheaper but are still good quality and new. Another way to save is to learn to install flooring yourself. There are plenty of books at your local library and YouTube videos to teach you how. 8. Basement Improvements: Paying outright to have the basement turned into a high-class lounge might not pay off. However, putting in the time and effort to fix up and finish off your existing basement can have an amazing return on investment. If your basement is unfinished, check it out for these problems. Cracks in walls or floors Wood damage to the supporting structure Leaks and flooding damage Excessive clutter For already finished basements, here are some things to think about. Patch damaged walls and repaint Paint the ceiling bright white Replace all light bulbs Install more lighting to brighten the room Remove excess, unused furniture Go with a traditional theme Fix any problems you find and clear out the clutter. A man cave or game room may be exciting for you, but tame down your theme if it's over the top. Your potential buyer wants to see open, clean space. Let them imagine how they might use it. Upgrade Your Home, Today: If you really want to increase the resale value of your home, pick one or more house upgrades on this list. The money you invest will be worth it. Check out these interesting articles about home and garden topics! Read Also: Smart Fun Gardening: How To Take Care Of A Money Tree Why Renting A Duplex House May Be Right For You

Don’t Get Caught in a Heatwave: 5 Signs That Your AC Is About to Go Out

1. Not Enough Cool Air:

2. High Utility Bills:

3. Little Air Flow:

4. Strange Sounds:

5. Bad Smells:

Final Thoughts on Home AC Warning Signs:

Five Bedroom Rug Ideas – Area Rugs and Decorating Ideas

3 Trendy Lighting Ideas for Your Kitchen Island

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Four Basic Types of Water Flow Meters

How To Prepare Your Home For Protecting Keepsakes During Storm Surges

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Don’t Get Caught in a Heatwave: 5 Signs That Your AC Is About to Go Out

1. Not Enough Cool Air:

2. High Utility Bills:

3. Little Air Flow:

4. Strange Sounds:

5. Bad Smells:

Final Thoughts on Home AC Warning Signs:

Share this Article

Five Bedroom Rug Ideas – Area Rugs and Decorating Ideas

3 Trendy Lighting Ideas for Your Kitchen Island

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related