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How To Recover Accidentally Deleted Photo Booth Files

Reasons to Have a Photo Booth at Your Wedding

There are so many ways to enjoy your wedding and have the memories last a lifetime. Seeing as the day flies by so fast, why not have a photo booth?

Weddings MUST be unforgettable! Together with family and friends, you’re celebrating the start of a new life together as husband and wife. You’ve got music, lighting, catering, and everything else but there seems to be something missing. There are people that enjoy dancing, people that enjoy sitting and chatting, and there are people all in between. But EVERYONE loves taking photos together especially when there are fun props involved! Every time I’ve used a photo booth, it’s brought me RIGHT back to the night of the event and I remember what a great time I had.

Here are 5 Reasons You MUST have a Photo Booth at Your Wedding:

1. Your guests recieve great wedding favors!

People don’t really enjoy wedding favors as much as they used to, so why not a photo of them and all their friends and family together in one place! People will thank you and remember this night forever!

2. You get your photos right away.

We understand that photographers may have a 3-6 week turnaround to even get a glimpse of a photo but this is a quick and easy way to get your photos with your people. Don’t wait more than 10 seconds for your high quality, silly pics with your guests!

3. Props!

Is your uncle Rob shy but wants to get in on the fun? Just slip on a Batman mask and PRESTO! Instant confidence! Plus he gets up there and participates for once!

4. This part of your event is suitable for everyone!

Have 95-year-old Nonna in a photo with 5-year-old Josie and watch the magic happen. You cannot go wrong with a photo booth. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got many kids on the guest list or no children and many seniors! Everyone loves a photo booth!

5. Add it into your guest book!

Want a fun and customizable way to create a guest book that will make you smile every time you look at it and will have everyone participating to make it special? Your guest book will be COVERED in sweet and funny pics taken by your guests with a message written below. Sometimes I’ve found that not many people write in the book because they’re not always sure what to say. Add in a photo and it’s easy and everyone will want to give it a try.

Here Are A Few Things To Consider.

How many hours do you need?

Most providers offer their services on a per hour basis. You must consider how many hours you will need. In order to do this, ask yourself the following

  • How many guests will be coming?
  • Do you need or want the rental the entire time?
  • Do you mind if the set up takes place during the event?

For example, if someone is planning a to have a photo booth for a wedding and they anticipate 200 guests. And they need everything to be set up in advance so there are no disturbances.  In this case we would suggest a four hour or longer rental time. We can help you narrow down what is right for you.

Enclosed or open concept?

An enclosed photo booth is one in which someone can sit inside and take photos. These are wonderful for those looking for something traditional. They are a bit challenging to come by and often difficult to set up. Presently we do not offer this service. We can point you in the right direction if this is something you really would like.

Open concept is more widely available. These have many benefits including,

  • Allowing large group photos
  • Creating a more social experience
  • Easy to set up in a variety of locations

What kind of lighting will be used with the photo booth?

Not all photo booths use the same lighting techniques.  There are two lighting options.

  • Continuous light
  • Flash

Continuous lights are in the form of led light fixtures. Basically, they are constantly on to illuminate the photo. The photos using this form of lighting are often not the best quality. We at Top Hat Photo Booths use external flash units. Flash is the way to go when taking photos. They properly illuminate everyone in the photo and create spectacular images you get to keep forever.

What kind of camera is being used with the photo booth?

This is a very important question one must ask when looking for a photo booth rental. Not all service providers use the same technology. There are two main camera options out there

  • Webcam or Ipad
  • Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR)

At Top Hat Photo Booths, we recommend DSLR cameras. These are professional level cameras. Photo quality is superb when compared to webcams or ipads. They have the functionality to handle difficult situations.

Things to Know When Renting A Photo Booth

A photo booth rental is the simplest and easiest way to elevate any entertainment atmosphere. When choosing the right company for your event, there are a few things you should consider to get the best experience possible:

1. Open Air Photo Booth or Enclosed Photo Booth: Over the years many people have asked me this question. There are pros and cons to both styles. But first, let me explain the key differences between the two–

Open Air Photo Booth: Is a single standalone unit; usually placed 6-8ft away from various open backdrops/green screens, commonly with an External DSLR Camera, Flash Strobe, Social Media Sharing, GIFs, Custom Prints, and more.

Enclosed Photo Booth: Is a stand-in unit with curtains and drapes to form a tent-like shape for guests to enter, pose, and print photos. Also known as “Vintage” or “Traditional” photo booth.

If I had to choose between the two it would be the Open-Air Photo Booth by a long shot. Here is why:

  • More people can fit inside. An enclosed booth is typically 3 feet x 6 feet, which sharply limits the amount of people that can fit in a photo. While an Open-Air Booth’s footprint is around 10 feet x 10 feet.
  • Less space required if you have a small space, weirdly shaped event space, or an event space that is not reachable from the ground floor. An Open-Air booth has more flexibility and versatility to adapt to different circumstances.
  • Features: Most Open-Air Booths have a variety of options to receive a photo. You may want to showcase your photos immediately to your favorite social media platform, email them to yourself, or text them to a friend. Most Traditional Booths can only print.

2. Quality: There are tons of photo booth companies out there. Unfortunately, many companies miss the mark in the quality department by using cheap cameras, paper, and printers. The best way to ensure quality is to either view their sample photos on their website or ask for sample photos from past work. Lighting also plays a crucial role to determine not only the darkness or brightness but also tone, mood, and atmosphere. To be certain that you get the highest quality images inquire if lighting is provided with your rental.

3. Reviews: Reputation matters! Choose a company that has rave reviews and experience to give you reassurance you’re getting the best in the business. It’s important each event runs smoothly.

These Top Questions Will Help Ensure That You Book The Very Best Booth For Your Event.

1. Is your photo booth closed or open-air?

Broadly speaking, there are two categories of photo booths out there: closed and open-air. The first step on your journey to photo booth perfection is finding a vendor who has the style of booth you’re looking for.

Closed booths are the traditional box-style, with all elements contained within an enclosed compartment. Open-air booths, on the other hand, are made up of free-standing components, generally including a camera, a printer, and a backdrop. Closed booths offer more privacy and a smaller footprint; open-air booths offer versatility. It’s this versatility that’s made open-air booths so popular in recent years.

Open-air booths can be customized to complement any style or theme. Because you’re working outside the box, you can incorporate backdrops that range from a green screen to simple and chic curtains of color or pattern to bespoke three-dimensional installations. The free-form style of open-air booths also means that you can fit far more people in each frame than you can in a closed booth. 10 is easy, 20 isn’t unheard of.

2. What type of images does your photo booth produce?

They may be called photo booths, but booths these days can do far more than just take photos. Select your own backgrounds (a la green screen), GIFs, Boomerangs, videos, and slo-mo videos all are possible depending on the booth you select. If you want to offer one of these features at your event, make sure the booth you choose can deliver, and ask for examples. Nothing tells you about the quality of a booth like samples of previous work.

3. Is your booth Wi-Fi enabled?

Do you want guests to be able to instantly text, email, Facebook or Tweet their photos? If so, make sure you’re choosing a booth that is Wi-Fi enabled. But take caution: a Wi-Fi enabled booth is only one piece of the puzzle. Does your venue have Wi-Fi? If not, or if you don’t know, make sure that the photo booth vendor you choose is able to provide their own.

4. Do you provide booth attendants and how many?

“Yes” is the only acceptable answer to this question and 1-2 attendants is standard. From crowd control, to prop management, to troubleshooting, booth attendants are key to photo booth success. Make sure your vendor provides a trained operator who’s there to help guests enjoy their booth experience and handle any hiccups.

5. Do you provide props? What kind?

If you want to include props in your photo booth fun, it’s important to consider a vendor’s approach before you book. Prop selection and quality vary widely, so make sure to ask each vendor you interview about their take.

Some vendors are either prop-less or encourage clients to bring their own. This can be fun or daunting, depending on who you are, and either way, can add considerable cost to your budget. Other vendors lean towards 2D paper props, while still others towards 3D objects. Some provide standard prop selections, some curated, others completely customized. All these variables mean that you can end up with anything from a grab-bag of mustaches and oversized glasses, to a theme-oriented selection that helps tell the unique story of your event.  Heck, there are even some photo booths that allow you to add digital props and after effects on a touchscreen after your photo is taken!

What does a typical set up look like?

There are times when a picture really is worth a thousand words. This is one of those times. Ask the vendors you interview for a picture of a typical event setup. Words like “professional,” “elegant,” and “modern” mean different things to different people; by checking out a photo of a vendor’s setup, you’ll be able to judge for yourself and decide if their style suits.

How much space do you need?

Different booths, different setups, different space requirements. Will the booth you’re considering fit in your venue and in the location you envisioned? It’s important to find out the setup dimensions for each booth you vet, including height. 

If you’re planning an outdoor event, make sure to ask about any special requirements a vendor may have. As with other types of electronic equipment, photo booths need to remain within a specific temperature range to work properly and must be protected from the elements. Many booth operators require some form of overhead covering and a solid backing behind backdrops since direct sunlight is not great for photos and backdrops can become giant sails in the wind.

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A Loading Services Guide To Moving House

Load Forming

Load Forming optimizes your whole outbound material flow. The Load Forming solution integrates your existing warehouse with our automated loading equipment to increase your outbound capacity.

Load Forming executes your load forming processes automatically on a load-by-load basis. It optimizes your outbound material flow by taking your production until loads and automatically preparing optimal truckloads, efficiently and accurately.

Benefits of automated Load Forming

Improving the efficiency of the docks you have is far more cost-effective than adding more docks. Compared to typical loading dock operations, automated load forming reduces unnecessary labor and simplifies your loading processes.

Ensure continuity of material flow

Automation with Load Forming provides transparency and control in your dispatch operations, giving you full command of your material flow and a constant, reliable supply to your automated loading system.

Integrate into any upstream system

Load Forming can be connected with any upstream manufacturing or warehouse pallet flow, such as production line pallet conveyors, ASRSs, AGVs, forklifts, etc. Integration to any major ERP or WMS as well, or use as a standalone.

A Removals Guide to Moving House

The best advice we can give to you when moving home is to prepare, prepare, prepare! Which is why we have put together a handy, removals guide checklist so that you can plan in advance and make your move as stress-free as possible.

Before the move

Plan according to key dates within your move, such as exchange of contracts, moving day etc.

Most importantly, carefully select, liaise and organise with your removals company.

Make an inventory list of all of the items in your home going room by room so you can organise packing and loading easier.

Set aside all keys and manuals etc. for the new owners in a marked envelope clearly stating do not move to ensure these are not loaded onto the removals truck.

Notify relevant companies of your change of address e.g. the bank, D.V.L.A, Insurance company etc.

Ensure you have the materials needed for packing your belongings, such as sturdy boxes of varying sizes, marker pens and packing tape. Here at Falconer Removals, we will deliver boxes to your door ahead of your move if you choose to move with us.

Arrange child or pet care for the move day to make the day is as stress-free as possible for you.

Notify neighbours both old and new of the move to warn them of the presence of removal trucks. However, we always do everything we can to minimise the disruption

Moving day

Ensure any last-minute bits of packing have been completed. Please note that we also offer a packing service so that your moving day can be completely stress-free.

Make sure there is adequate space outside both properties for removal vans, particular if you don’t have a drive or designated parking spot.

Ensure all boxes are labelled clearly or be on hand to ensure boxes are put in the correct rooms.

If you are completing on your house on the day of your move, make sure you collect the keys as soon as they are released from the estate agent.

Set aside any items you may need throughout the day such as a kettle, car keys, phone charger etc so that they do not get loaded onto the truck.

After the move

Before your removals company leaves, be sure to let them know if you need anything moving to a different room or position etc.

When you have finished unpacking, please flatten the boxes, keep them somewhere dry and safe and contact us to arrange collection.

How to start a removals business from scratch

Starting a removals business is one of those instances where you will have a hard time working on your own. You would need at least one more person to help you out, which is especially the case if you’re starting from scratch.

Man and Van.

This service is perfect for just one person. If you do not have a partner yet, then this option is the best place for you to start. The man and van service also enjoys the highest customer demand as it’s usually booked by low-budget households. Basically, all you need to do here is drive the van and help your clients with loading and unloading.

Self-load.

This service is also one that targets low-income clients. Here, you can minimise the costs even further as you don’t even need to help with loading – you simply drive the van, while your clients handle the rest.

Home removals.

This is where the more expensive services come into place and also where your search for a reliable business partner begins. The home removals service is suited for upper-middle class households that usually contain three and more rooms.

Commercial removals.

Commercial properties also need help with moving. There are lots of offices, shops, and workplaces that frequently request help with moving fragile equipment. Another thing worth mentioning is that this is one of those services where you need at least one more person to help you out. Especially if you have to move computer servers around (which tend to weigh a lot).

Packing.

Professional packing of belongings is every client’s preferred service. Why? Because no one wants to waste their time packing, of course! To provide this service, you need to have good knowledge on how to pack different items and how to efficiently work with packing materials. But the good news is that all of this can be learned in a day. Keep in mind, though,, that you will also need to invest in quite a bit of packing materials.

Storage.

Very often, people tend to need a storeroom where they can place a piece of furniture, a box of trinkets, or some other item until the can figure out what to do with it. That’s why the storage service is a very practical one. Also, if people don’t come to take their stuff back within 6 months, then by law you get to keep those to yourself.

The Complete Guide to Junk Removal

We are all guilty of having some junk lying around our homes. But that clutter can really get in the way when you decide to move to a new house. You then have to choose to donate, recycle, or throw it away. But another alternative (that could save you some much-needed time) is to call a junk removal company that can manage the load for you.

How junk removal works

Junk pick up is handled by professionals who know how to sort and value your discarded goods. In fact, the junk hauling industry in the U.S. is now professionally run with uniform standards, clean trucks, licensing, insurance, and trained crews.

Junk removal companies usually work as follows:

On appointment day, they show up with a truck and crew.

They conduct a thorough sweep and take away the items you want to dispose of.

Typical items include furniture, mattresses, electrical appliances, construction debris, and even garden refuse. All items must be non-hazardous.

Charges quoted on-site are based on the amount and type of junk removed. The quote can include all labor and disposal fees. The fees can vary by the location and accessibility of your premises.

The material is hauled away to licensed recycling and disposal facilities.

Junk removal companies that can help

Full-service junk removal companies are a sustainable alternative to trash — they can benefit our local communities and the planet too. For instance, eco-friendly junk removal companies try to donate some of what they pick up to local charities, or they take eligible items to recycling plants instead of dumping them in landfills.

How much does junk pick up cost?

Junk pick up costs vary from location to location. HomeAdvisor says that the typical rate can be anything between $134 to $357. The national average is $234. Junk hauling costs can be more from apartments ($250) compared to homes ($200).

Compare removal quotes

Removal Services

Are you looking for a moving company but unsure of what they can do for you? Then you have come to the right page! This article compiles a list of 14 most common removal services that are available for relocating to your new home. We also list the average prices of moving services, as well as their corresponding descriptions.

Removal services: What is the cost?

Although the specifics depend on the company, most offer many different services. Of course, these are performed at a price so you are probably wondering how much it would cost to hire, for example, packing services and storage space.

Take Advantage and Save on Your Move

With all these moving services at your disposal, you are able to have the bespoke move that you desire. Whether you request all available removal services so you will not have to do any work, or simply require someone to drive your items, a moving company is a perfect solution to any move

What Moving Services are There?

Moving specialists provide a wide range of removal services and are able to handle anything you need. With many options, your project is completely customizable, depending on the specific details of your move. Below, we list the different moving services that removal companies offer and explain what each involves.

House Removals

Specialists will handle everything to do with moving to your new home. Whether it is just moving down the street or to a new city 150 miles away, the removal company will assist with safely and quickly transporting your belongings to your new residence. With expertise in house removals, loading and transporting your valuables are taken care of, meaning everything will be smooth and comfortable.

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Booking An Electrical Installation Course

Inspection and Testing

What is Inspection and Testing?

Electrical Inspection and Testing is a procedure completed by qualified electricians. Electrical installations that comply with BS 7671 are likely to satisfy Statutory Regulations such as the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Not to comply is a criminal offence and could result in a hefty fine or imprisonment.

Inspection and testing on completion of a new installation

Within BS 7671, Regulation 610.1 states that “every installation shall, during erection and on completion before being put into service be inspected and tested to verify , so far as reasonably practicable, that the requirements of the regulations have been met.” To comply with this regulation, qualified electricians must complete a full inspection and testing procedure. In a case of a new electrical installation, the procedure is followed by the completion of the Electrical Installation Certificate. In a case of an alteration of an existing electrical installation, a Minor Electrical Work Certificate is to be completed.

Periodic inspection and testing

Regulation 621.1 states that “where required, periodic inspection and testing of every electrical installation shall be carried out in accordance with regulations 621.2 to 621.5 in order to determine as far as reasonably practicable, whether the installation is in a satisfactory condition for continued service”. This regulation relates to electrical installations which are not newly built or altered. In this case a periodic inspection is to be carried out. Together with visual inspection it consists of a full inspection and testing procedure and is followed by the completion of the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

The Inspection and Testing Procedure

To comply with regulations set in BS 7671, qualified electricians must complete a correct and suitable Inspection and Testing procedure. This procedure consists of both visual inspection and tests carried out with the help of suitable testing equipment, such as the Megger 1553 multifunctional tester.

The electrical installation to be inspected can be eider a new build/alteration, in which case an Initial Verification Inspection and Testing procedure must be completed, or an existing electrical installation, in which case a Periodic Inspection and Testing procedure needs to be completed. On the following pages you can learn more about both of these electrical testing procedures.

Electrical Installation

Electrical System Grounding and Bonding

When working on electrical installations, the earth is one of the best safety devices. One may not think of the earth as a device, but when one ground electrical circuits to the earth, it provides protection by diverting dangerous current away into the ground. For this simple reason, in the language of electricians the term “ground” literally means earth. A “ground” is a conductive connection between an electrical circuit or a piece of equipment and the earth or another type of conductive material that is used in place of the earth

Both OSHA and the NEC have very specific requirements for utilizing grounding to reduce the risk of injury. The rationale for these requirements is simple—all electrical installations have to provide a means of transferring electrical current in the event of a circuit fault to reduce potential shock hazards. Grounding protects against shock hazards posed by fault currents. An electrical fault occurs when current flows through an abnormal or unintended path. For example, if the insulation in a conductor is damaged, the means of containing and directing the electrical current running through it will be compromised and ineffective.

A fault current is several times greater than the current that normally flows through a circuit, because it is essentially electricity running wild instead of flowing in a controlled manner. Electricity always follows the path of least resistance, and that path could be you if a fault occurs within electrical equipment or components that have not been grounded.

A Guide to Practical Electrical Installation Work

Basics you should know .

The mode of generating Electricity for various requirements of the mankind today are numerous . Electrical Power Generation methods can be from Thermal, Hydropower, Nuclear ,Solar ,Wind Power or some other form. The generated power is distributed through an Electrical Distribution system.

The Power Utility Companies or Government Power Utility Institutes take the responsibility of bringing the Electrical Power to the Consumer. A Consumer can be a large manufacturing industry or just a Home of a person. The Consumer’s requirements vary greatly according to his electrical power requirements or the useage of Electricity.

Electrical Installations are needed for the Consumer to use Electricity for his requirements as Lighting, Heating and Air Conditioning , running all types of Electrical Equipment , to name a few. It is for the above , that we intend to address here and to gather practical methods and ways for implementation to improve the knowhow on the subject.

First we need to be familier with words such as

Current, Voltage and Resistance and their relationship to each other.

Then about Electrical Power and the relationship to above.

Also about Direct Current,Single Phase ,Three Phase and the Neutral.

Real Power, Apparent Power and Reactive Power

About Earthing and the relationship to the Neutral

The Incoming Supply from the Utility and the Consumer Unit.

About Electric Cables , Main Switches and MCCB units.

Distribution Boards and MCB modules.

RCCB or RCD devices.

Socket outlets and Switches for power distribution and Illumination or Lighting.

Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Electrical Load Calculation to commence an Electrical Installation

Single Phase and Three Phase Supply for Alternative or AC Current usage.

Power Factor and Improving of Power Factor for large Electrical Installations

Work Scope of a general Electrical Installation

* Preparing Electrical Layout Drawings and Schematic Drawings based on Architechtural Drawings

* Determine Electrical Specifications

* List out Material and Component requirements

* Decide Main Distribution Board locations

* Lay conduits or Trunkings in the building as necessary

* Install boxes for Switches and Sockets

* Install Distribution Boards and Main Switches

* Install Cables from Distribution Boards to Switches, Light/Fan points, and Socket outlets [receptacles]

* Install Earth Electrode for the Electrical System.

* Install Lights, Switches, Sockets and other accessories

* Test the Installation and obtain Test Certificate

* Obtain Service Connection from Power Utility Company

* Ready for Commissioning of the Electrical Installation.

Installation Services

Electrical Panel Upgrades

Electrical panel upgrades are a necessity in preventing electrical issues resulting from the addition of modern, technologically advanced appliances to older homes. In addition, today’s electrical panels offer far more reliability and safety than their outdated predecessors.

Circuit Installations and Upgrades

If your breaker keeps tripping and interrupting your daily workflow, contact for expert troubleshooting and repairs or rewiring.

Ceiling Fan Installation

Don’t let their looks fool you – ceiling fans are heavy, and installations can be long and complicated. Save your back and your patience for other endeavors with prompt, professional installation.

EV Charger Installation and Service

Own a hybrid or electric vehicle? Professionally installed charging stations offer convenience and safety for both your vehicle and your home. Check out our wide range of product solutions including charging stations and circuit protection equipment for all of your hybrid or battery powered electric vehicle needs.

Exhaust Fan Installation

Exhaust fans divert unpleasant odors as well as control temperature and moisture that could lead to damage, mold, and mildew in your home. You can trust for the professional installation and proper sizing that are key to safe, efficient exhaust fan operation.

Home Generators

Having a home standby generator on hand is a good idea for everyone, but especially for people in areas prone to severe weather and power outages.

Commercial Generators

When the power goes out your business needs to keep running smoothly.  Put your mind at ease with a backup power generator that will keep your customers and employees comfortable and your computer systems safe and operational.

Commercial Energy Savings and Audits

Operating costs can quickly cut into your business profits. can assess your company’s electrical needs and correct inefficiencies to bring your energy bills down. Often, installing an upgraded ballast and with energy-efficient bulbs, placed strategically, can bring bills down. Get a free electrical wiring inspection to uncover any safety risks or energy waste at your business location.

Commercial Electrical Panel Upgrades

It’s common for the numerous devices and advanced technology needed to run a business today, to simply overwhelm existing electrical wiring. Often, the fix is as simple as an additional electrical panel to ensure you have all the power necessary to run your business, and avoid fire danger, data loss or employee injury.

Electrical Installations

Electrical wiring is done by electricians who install, repair and maintain wiring, switches, conduits, circuit breakers, lighting and other apparatus in buildings and other structures. They need electronics knowledge and trouble-shooting skills to provide maintenance services for electronically controlled systems. Proficiency in all types of electronic applications is important as electricity is used for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security and communications.

An electrician reads and interprets blueprints, plans and sketches, following the variety of methods and practices used in the construction field to complete basic wiring circuits in accordance with the Electrical Code. Electricians need to understand electronics in order to install and maintain the increasing amount of electronic equipment involved in modern construction projects. Keeping up with trends and new technology and continuing to upgrade technical skills is an important part of the job.

Welders perform some or all of the following duties:

Read and interpret drawings, blueprints, schematics and electrical code specifications to determine layout of industrial electrical equipment installations

Install, examine, replace or repair electrical wiring, receptacles, switch boxes, conduits, feeders, fibre-optic and coaxial cable assemblies, lighting fixtures and other electrical components

Test electrical and electronic equipment and components for continuity, current, voltage and resistance

Maintain, repair, install and test switchgear, transformers, switchboard meters, regulators and reactors

Maintain, repair, test and install electrical motors, generators, alternators, industrial storage batteries and hydraulic and pneumatic electrical control systems

Troubleshoot, maintain and repair industrial, electrical and electronic control systems and other related devices

Conduct preventive maintenance programs and keep maintenance records

May install, maintain and calibrate industrial instrumentation and related devices.

Who do they work for?

Residential industry

Commercial industry

Manufacturing

Construction firms

Self-employed

Sample titles

Refrigeration Mechanic

Electrical Engineer

Industrial Electrician

Marine electrician

Mill electrician

Plant electrician

Essential Skills

Reading

Document Use

Thinking (Critical Thinking)

Salary

Between $16.50 and $40.00. Annual salaries between $34,500 to $90,000

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How To Find The Best Immigration Lawyer

Why Should I Hire an Immigration Lawyer?

Often times, people may wonder why they should hire an immigration lawyer and the truth is that you will save yourself a lot of time, effort, and stress by doing so. When it comes to applying for an immigrant visa or green card, it is not required to have an immigration lawyer. Depending on your circumstances,

many people can even get through the entire process without even having to hire an immigration attorney; however, it can be a long and arduous process without one. In addition, those who have a complicated case may need one. For instance, people who have a record of crimes or run-ins with immigration authorities, or with the law in general, it is suggested that you have legal help.

Overall, hiring an immigration lawyer will save you plenty of time and stress. Immigration law and the issues that come with it are extremely complex and it is not simple to handle alone, so that is important to keep in mind.

Figuring Out Your Options

There are several different visas and green cards that one could choose from. Ultimately, it will all depend on what best suits your situation. In addition, some immigration options are better than others and some are faster to obtain. By speaking to the best immigration lawyers, you will be able to better decide what works best for you.

For example, there are several purposes as to why someone may want to look into visas or green cards. There are worker’s visas, family-based visas or green cards, and much more. Some take longer than others to obtain and some have more advantages over others.

Immigration Court Process

The immigration court process is not only overwhelming, but it is also time-consuming and overall, it can be a pretty stressful process. There are several applications that one must fulfill, deadlines, appointments, and many other aspects that come with the immigration court process. By hiring an immigration attorney, he or she will be able to make sure that everything you need is turned in at the time it needs to be, along with making sure that whatever applications are needed are filled correctly.

When it comes to the immigration court process, there is no time to waste and risks can be heightened without a Pasadena immigration attorney.

In Cases When You Are Unaccepted

There are cases in which those who have tried to apply for visas or green cards are inadmissible. For instance, they may be going through a legal issue that will surely need professional legal help. If you have committed a crime and wish to be granted a certain status in the U.S., you will surely need to hire an immigration lawyer.

Paperwork Can Be Overwhelming

When it comes to immigration applications, even the simplest paperwork requires very meticulous instructions. There are a lot of instructions you must follow as well as fees that must be paid. If you make a mistake on your application, this can cause a great delay, return, or it can even be rejected.

Tips from an Immigration Attorney, particularly if you have no status in the United States:

  • Keep a log of every time you have left and entered the country.
  • File away any piece of paper you get with your name, date, and a location on it. Many immigration solutions depend on proving that you were in the United States at a certain time or for a certain length of time. These sorts of records can make or break a case and they are much easier to build over time, instead of in a mad-rush to gather ten years (or more) of evidence all at once in time to get to court on a schedule decided by the judge(Examples of these documents include doctor’s notes, envelopes mailed to you with a postmark, receipts for money transferred to loved ones abroad, mobile phone statements, bank statements, utility statements, school and medical records for you or your children, rent payment receipts, Amazon delivery records, gym memberships, etc.).
  •  

Limit alcohol intake. DUIs and domestic violence or assault charges stemming from a drunken fight can be hugely problematic for foreign nationals in the United States.

  • Never ever EVER claim to be a U.S. citizen, which includes registering to vote. If you fear that you may have been automatically or accidentally registered at some point when you did something else, do not ignore it! Act to cancel the registration as quickly as possible and do not vote in local, state, or federal elections until you are naturalized.
  • Do not seek legal advice from a notario! In the United States, a notario (notary public) is not an attorney nor an immigration expert. They are not authorized to practice law. They may advertise that they are “immigration consultants,” but they are not qualified to assist you in your immigration case. We have seen countless cases filed by notarios that have led to serious consequences, because they were improperly handed. A notario cannot represent you in court. A notario does not have a legal license to protect. Attorneys, rather, will be there with you in court — defending you and ensuring you get the best defense. Attorneys know that if they mishandle your case it could affect their law practice. If you go to a notario, your case will likely end in shambles with no one there to help you piece it together. Do not make this mistake. Immigration law is extraordinary complicated. If you want your case done right — go to an immigration lawyer.

How Do I Choose a Lawyer?

Before choosing a lawyer, call the offices of the lawyers on your list, briefly explain your legal problem and ask:

  • Are you specialized and/or experienced in my type of problem?
  • Do you charge a flat rate or hourly fee for this type of work?
  • Can you give me an estimate of the cost?
  • Can you estimate the amount of time it will take?

How Should I Make My Decision to Hire a Lawyer?

Consider the following factors before agreeing to hire a lawyer:

  • Can you communicate effectively with the lawyer? Was the lawyer clear and easy to understand?
  • Are the fees reasonable in comparison with other lawyers’ charges?
  • Did the lawyer give clear explanations of how he or she will let you know about progress in your case?
  • If you are not satisfied with this lawyer, do not hire him or her. Look elsewhere for legal help.
  • Before you finally sign a contract with a lawyer, read it carefully. Make sure you understand it. Everything you and the lawyer agreed to should be in writing.

Tips On Hiring An Immigration Attorney

Hiring an attorney can be an intimidating, confusing, and even frustrating process. Before hiring an attorney, it is important to do your homework. Find out as much as you can about an attorney before signing a contract. Some questions to ask an immigration attorney at the initial consultation include:

  • How long have you been practicing law?
  • In what state(s) are you licensed to practice law?
  • What percentage of your clients are immigration cases?
  • Are you a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association?
  • How often have you handled immigration matters like my case?
  • What is the range of possible outcomes in my case from best to worst?
  • What will be your fees and how will you charge me?
  • Who in your office will work on my case?
  • How do I communicate with your office? What is your policy for returning calls and e-mails?

Benefits of Being a Lawyer

Lawyers often are the punchline of many jokes; however, being a lawyer has its benefits.  It takes years of hard work and intensive study to become a lawyer; therefore, very few people would choose this career if there were not several excellent benefits of being a lawyer. For those who work hard, the rewards of being an attorney outweigh the cost of achieving your law degree and license to practice law.

The benefits of being a lawyer depend on several factors; however, four of the most common benefits of being a lawyer include:

Wide Selection of Career Options

The benefits of being a lawyer include being able to select from a wide variety of career options in the public and private sector. If your calling is to make the world a safer place for you, your family, and everyone else, you may choose to become a criminal prosecutor. On the other hand, if you believe our criminal justice system is grounded on the principal that everyone is innocent until proven guilty and everyone has the right to competent legal counsel, you may choose to become a public defender. Of course, some people believe this but choose to be a criminal defense attorney in the private sector because private attorneys tend to earn a great deal more than attorneys in the public sector.

Financial Rewards and Emotional Rewards

Among the many benefits of being a lawyer, the financial rewards and emotional rewards are at the top of most college-bound students seeking to study law.  Lawyers have the opportunity to earn a lucrative income. The average annual income for an attorney in the United States is $114,970 per year as of 2014 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. The highest 10% of attorneys earned more than $187,200 per year. Salaries of experienced, specialized attorneys can be much, much higher depending on the field, geographical location, employer, and level of experience.

Mental Stimulation and Intellectual Challenges

Another one of the many benefits of being a lawyer is the mental stimulation an attorney experiences when working through complex legal theories, statutes, and case law to find a solution to a legal question. Most lawyers possess exceptional analytical skills including reading and writing skills. Practicing law allows you to use your mental skills each day in effective ways to solve problems for your clients. Because each case is unique, you must use your full mental capabilities to research, speculate, hypothesize, and formulate legal strategies to effectively solve problems for your clients.

Work Environment

For many, the work environment is one of the benefits specifically considered when choosing a career. Most lawyers work in law firms, government agencies, or corporations where they are afforded an actual office with four walls rather than a cubicle in the middle of a “bull pen” from a cubicle. Being a lawyer typically includes the benefit of having a certain level of prestige that affords you certain benefits that other employees may not receive (i.e. office, ability to set hours, expense accounts, decorating budget, etc.).

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Mold Remediation And Contamination

How to Identify and Treat Mold in Your Basement

If any place in the house will grow mold, it’s the basement. Basements collect and trap moisture, and moisture is one factor that leads to mold growth. And because basements have less natural light and airflow than other parts of the home, that mold will not die off on its own.

Some strains of black mold can be a health hazard. Plus, mold can quickly decay organic materials such as wood, leading to structural failure. This means that identifying and treating mold in the basement should be a priority as soon as you believe that you have it.

Mold in the Basement: Identifying and Treating It

Homes that have basements often have mold. Due to basements’ proximity to groundwater, water can wick up through concrete floors and continue wicking up through floor sleepers and wall studs. Homes without a robust water diversion system may accumulate water in the soil that can crack the foundation, which results in water leakage.

Identifying and treating basement mold is a multi-stage process:

Finding the basement mold.

Testing for mold.

Removing structural elements to permit access to the mold, as needed.

Killing the mold.

Mechanically removing or encapsulating the dead mold spores.

Fixing the problem that led to mold growth.

Codes, Regulations, and Permits

Most communities do not have laws that monitor mold or enforce mold removal. However, always check with your local permitting office to see if permits are required for mold removal.

When to Treat Mold in the Basement

Remove mold in the basement as soon as possible to prevent its further growth. If the basement has recently been flooded, first remove all of the water and wait until the basement is completely dry before you begin removing the mold.

How to Clean Black Mold

The kind of black mold that shows up in houses and buildings is directly related to a medical problem known as sick building syndrome, according to the American Industrial Hygiene Association. To remove black mold, you’ll need to figure out why the mold is there in the first place, fix that problem, and take the necessary steps to eliminate it completely.

Target the Source

Mold grows in wet environments, so it’s important to find out where the condensation is coming from and fix the problem—whether it originates from a leak, improper ventilation, or blocked drainage. If you remove the mold without taking steps to dry up that space, it will come back. Once you fix the underlying issue, you are ready to clean up the black mold.

Protect Yourself With Gear

Before you start, make sure you have the appropriate tools. You’ll need:

A respirator or face mask rated for black mold protection

Heavy plastic to seal off the area and contain waste materials

Heavy-duty plastic bags to collect wall material

Duct tape to secure the plastic

Fan

Spray bottle with water to wet down dry areas to prevent mold spores from getting into the air

Pump mist sprayer filled with water to wet down larger areas

Wood preservative

Bucket

Bleach or an Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfectant cleaner

Water

Appropriate paint and painting tools

After securing the area with plastic and a fan if necessary, put on your face protection and get to work. You’ll also want to cover as much of your skin as possible to prevent the mold from touching you. When closing off a room, make sure to cover both the doorways and air vents with the plastic. If possible, place the fan in a window to help vent the room.

Gauge the Size of the Job

Sometimes surface mold goes deeper than you think. Look closely at carpeting and padding, floorboards, drywall, and insulation. You need to know how widespread the infestation is to properly plan the removal and restoration.

Mold-Resistant Drywall Review: Pros and Cons

Mold and mildew growth have become a hot-button issue lately due to health concerns. Mold remediation companies deal with eliminating mold/mildew, but it’s always best to prevent mold before it starts. One potential weapon in the mold-prevention arsenal is mold-resistant drywall, a product marketed aggressively by manufacturers. When installed in homes, it is often touted by real estate professionals as a selling feature.

Preventing Mold Growth on Drywall

To grow, mold spores require oxygen, moisture, and an organic food source. In the case of gypsum wallboard, that organic material is found in the paper facing on the drywall panels (the gypsum core is non-organic and not subject to mold).

Preventing mold growth on drywall can be approached via two strategies:

Deny mold spores the required air and moisture. With some mold-resistant drywall, this is accomplished by using a thicker paper facing and backing that is heavily saturated with a waxy substance that prevents moisture and air from getting at the paper. Without this, mold spores can not take root.

Use a material other than paper for the outer layer on the drywall panels. This form of mold-resistant drywall typically uses fiberglass mesh instead of paper for the facing and backing. Because fiberglass is a non-organic material, mold has no food source necessary to colonize for it to colonize.

Increasingly, mold-resistant drywall is also marketed as moisture-resistant wallboard, and where manufacturers once offered two different drywall products—one for mold resistance, one for water-resistance—most products now incorporate both merits. It is important to note that manufacturers never guarantees their product as being immune to mold—only resistant to it.

Mold-Resistant Drywall Cost

Modern mold-resistant drywall that also includes moisture-resistance is about 50 percent more expensive than standard drywall. Big box home improvement centers sell a sheet of 1/2-inch, 4 x 8-foot standard drywall for about $12 per sheet, while a comparable sheet of good mold-resistant drywall costs about $16. Buying in bulk will notably reduce this price.

How to Make Concrete Molds from Wood

Molding concrete is made easy for do-it-yourselfers with wood forms that create the perfect shape. Instead of setting the concrete in place, you can cast the concrete in a convenient location like a patio or garage. You don’t even have to worry about troweling the top smooth. The form does most of the work for you. The concrete is cast upside-down, so the mold’s smooth bottom becomes the concrete’s top.

Basics of Making Concrete Molds From Wood

Start With a Coated Surface

Uncoated wood is routinely used to make large molds for curbs and house footings. After curing, the concrete will unstick from the wood relatively easily. But using wood coated with a slick surface will make the release even easier. For this, 3/4-inch thick MDF board topped with melamine is ideal.

Use an Inexpensive Disposable Wood

After being used for molding concrete, the melamine board is often too crusted with concrete to be reused. Melamine-faced board is inexpensive and can be discarded after use.

Use a Release Agent

To aid the release of the concrete from the mold, coat the surface with a release agent. Cooking spray, motor oil, vegetable oil, and dishwashing detergent mixed with water (1:10 ratio) are a few of the release agents available around the home. Or you can use a product designed solely for this purpose, such as a spray or brush-on silicone-based, semi-permanent sealer and release agent.

Use Exposed Removable Fasteners

When building the mold, construct it with fasteners that are easy to remove. Screws are perfect for making a mold because they can be turned out. The heads should be exposed, too. If a fastener’s head is embedded in the concrete, you will not be able to access it to remove it. Face-screw the fasteners—no need to sink them into pocket holes.

How to Fix Water Problems in the Crawl Space

Water in your home’s crawl space is more than just an annoyance; it can have devastating consequences for your home’s value and for your health. Standing water or even ever-present moisture in the air can create mold problems that lead to chronic health issues for your family. At the extreme end, water in a crawlspace can lead to rot and decay that weaken structural members and make major architectural repairs necessary. The presence of moisture can also foster termites, carpenter ants, and other insects that can damage your home and affect your quality of life. Water under the house attracts animals that you really want to avoid such as rats and raccoons.

When to Fix Water Problems in the Crawl Space

Water can sit in the crawl space for months, even years, giving a false impression that everything will be fine as long as you own the house. Over the long term, though, standing water can damage the house’s foundation; wooden beams and joists will begin to rot; various strains of mold can develop. You will be required to fix the problem when it comes time to sell the house. A future buyer will be unable to obtain a loan to buy a house with water problems in the crawl space.

Water remediation is a project best handled during dry months. While all of the work is done in protected environments such as in the house or under the house, water can continue to build up under the house and hamper work.

Safety Considerations

Working under your home can present many hazards. Dust, dried feces, black mold, and asbestos are only a few of the contaminants you might breathe in this space. Wear breathing protection in the crawl space.

The general process of controlling water in a crawl space involves setting up a perimeter within the crawl space and capturing any water that tries to infiltrate that perimeter. When water hits this border, it is diverted into gravel-filled channels and fed by gravity to a sump pump pit. The sump pump then pumps the water from the crawl space

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Outsourcing Payroll The Good, The Bad And The Ugly

Tips On How To Choose A Payroll Services Company

When researching payroll services in Nashville, Tennessee, it can be hard to know what to look for. Sometimes, it might appear that all payroll services are offering the same thing, but there are a few considerations companies should keep in mind when choosing a payroll provider.

Few Considerations for Choosing a Payroll Provider

1. Get a Company that Includes Payroll Taxes

Paying employees is only a small part of what companies need to do when processing payroll. Calculating and filing payroll taxes is one of the most complicated and important HR tasks for any business. Not only are payroll taxes time-consuming, but mistakes can result in hefty fines from the IRS. It makes common sense to outsource payroll taxes when also outsourcing payroll processing. Companies in Nashville should look for an all-inclusive payroll provider with a trusted reputation for filing payroll taxes correctly and on time.

2. Choose a Tech-Savvy Company

Some payroll services operate with antiquated or outdated software and user-friendly web tools. Whichever payroll outsourcing company you choose, make sure it uses up-to-date software that can be easily integrated with your company’s HR systems. Payroll services with better technology also tend to be more aware of the security threats to the sensitive data stored in payroll software. Find a company that takes their technology and security seriously.

3. Find a Service with Time-Saving Tools

A lot of information goes into payroll processing and taxes, but some software programs have made it easier to collect, track, and access that information. Finding a payroll provider that has timekeeping tools, online enrollment tools, and employee self-serve will save your company time and money.

4. Prioritize Customer Service

Good payroll software is extremely important. But, sometimes, you will need or want to talk to an actual person. Be sure that your payroll service provider has a customer support team that’s available to coach you through both your initial transition and answer questions for years to come.

5. Pick a Company that Can Grow with Your Business

The main benefit of outsourcing payroll is freeing up time to grow your business. When that growth does happen, you need a payroll service that can scale up to accommodate additional employees and services. Make sure to find a payroll service with a clear pricing structure. This will help avoid any potential surprises as your service increases.

6. Find a Local Payroll Outsourcing Provider

If you’re a Tennessee-based business, you should find a payroll service that is based in Tennessee. Not only does this allow for in-person collaboration, but local providers are more aware of laws that will directly affect your business. Payroll laws are constantly changing, and local providers are the most aware of changes in the areas in which they are based.

Timing Of A Payroll Conversion

Deciding when to implement a new payroll solution is important. If you are considering a mid-year conversion, Quarter 2 is a good time to start the process. Another option is to convert at the end of the year. The ideal time to begin a year-end conversion is October so it doesn’t conflict with any year-end processing you need to handle.

No matter which time of year you choose, a streamlined implementation process will ensure a smooth transition. Part of this process is working with an experienced and knowledgeable sales consultant who understands your needs and requirements to recommend the best solution. Given the complexity of workforce solutions and the multitude of capabilities that will impact your company, a good payroll provider should have a sales team that is involved every step of the way.

What Type of Backup Plan Do They Have?

What happens if the company has an accident in the office and your records are destroyed? What if the person who handles your payroll is ill? You need to know the company has a backup plan or several should anything go wrong. It’s not just important to know your business is in safe hands but feel relaxed at leaving them in charge of your business as well. Far too many people don’t consider this when choosing a new payroll service and lose out. When you’re choosing a new service you have to ensure there are backup plans just in case.

Do They Offer Customer Service or Support?

No customer support? If a company doesn’t have any support on offer, then it’s something to be very careful of. Having no customer support can be bad simply because, if something goes wrong and you need to contact someone, there isn’t anyone to talk to. That is why when choosing a new payroll company, you have to ensure there is some level of customer service or support on offer. To find out more, check out www.payrollserviceaustralia.com.au.

Bonded and Insured Companies Are a Must

You need to know that, if something goes wrong, the company you choose will take full responsibility for it. There could be any number of problems with payroll and a good payroll service should be bonded and insured so that if something does go wrong they can reimburse you for the money lost. It’s not always something you think about when searching for new payroll services and yet it’s really quite important. You cannot afford to hire someone that isn’t bonded with the state or insured.

Good References Are a Must!

While it’s not always easy to get a referral, you shouldn’t look past a recommendation or reference. Companies that have a good track record won’t scowl too much when you ask them for a reference or two, they should jump at the chance to show how trustworthy they are. You should always look at their references or even read some reviews online and see if you like what you’re reading.

Setting up an automated payroll system

A company that has never jumped into the deep end of automation will be surprised at how easy it is to get started.

With RPA programs, much of the work is already done. Most of the software is capable of running alongside the company’s pre-existing system, which means that implementation is relatively simple, especially in contrast to a complete system overhaul.

Here are five steps to a successful implementation:

1. Digitize all payroll

At a time when people fear that nearly all of the modern workforce is going to be taken over by computers, it’s stunning to note how many companies are still using pen and paper to calculate their monthly payroll expenditures.

There is no reason to avoid using automated software for payroll management, with many companies like Papaya Global and Gusto offering solutions that can bring your payroll service into the current century in one shot.

It’s a vital step in the automation process because the bots that will do the job need digital records to work with. You can’t automate if you are committed to a pen-and-paper solution.

2. Bring all payroll together

Whether your company is a startup with fewer than a dozen employees or an established business with workers in different countries, aggregating all of the information into one place on a single platform is not only good for automation, it’s also a great way to start collecting business intelligence data from your payroll and planning for the future.

Since payroll will always be the biggest expense item in virtually any company, finding ways to be more efficient will be increasingly essential to growth and competition. Missing out on the biggest source of useful data would be a tragic missed opportunity.

3. Choose an automation system

With relatively low-cost RPA solutions, such as IUPath or BluePrism, it’s hard to go wrong with an automation solution. However, it is worthwhile to look at certain factors to make sure that they align with your automation goals. If you are trying to grow your workforce quickly in the coming period, make sure it can scale as necessary.

If you plan to use payroll automation as a test model to see if automation can work in other departments, such as finance or human resources, make sure the software company can handle those areas as well. Automation is moving quickly. You want to make sure you can use your experience with payroll to your full advantage.

4. Prepare your workforce

Many workers continue to see automation as a threat that is not only going to push them out of their jobs, but also permanently take them out of the workforce with no way to earn a livelihood. Good managers prepare the workers for automation by presenting the benefits for everyone involved. When it comes to automating payroll, workers should recognize that the time they save will go toward more fulfilling and creative tasks that robots can never do.

The future of work is both more digital and more human. Workers fear the digital half of the equation—so it is essential that they are fully aware of the human side as well. Instead of feeling threatened by losing their jobs, they can feel empowered and inspired to be doing things of greater value that could result in higher pay.

5. Stay alert to external changes

While simple payroll compliance is one of the biggest benefits of digitizing and automating payroll, there is still a need for human involvement in the process, especially when it comes to tracking changes in legal matters.

Compliance is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix, and failing to stay up-to-date on changes in the law could end up costing money in fines.

In short, even the best automated system requires human involvement at various levels. The bots may be able to deliver high-quality service in speeds five to 15 times faster than a human, but the system needs oversight. It would be a mistake to program it and forget it, especially when the stakes are so high with payroll.

Your business needs

Before you can compare software options, you need to have a clear idea of what your business needs from a payroll service. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

  • What size is your business? How many workers do you have?
  • What kind of workers do you have, contractors or employees?
  • Do those employees have benefits?
  • Who will manage payroll and how much time do they have to devote to it?
  • Does your payroll manager always work from the same place?
  • How comfortable is your payroll manager with regulatory and legal issues when it comes to payroll?
  • How much budget do you have to allocate toward payroll processing?
  • What is your biggest pain point in your current payroll process?

Use your answers to these questions to guide you through the rest of the criteria you need to evaluate before you choose payroll software for your small business.

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Reasons Why You Should Practice Green Carpet Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning Consumer Guide

The carpet cleaning industry is one of the few industries that is not regulated, and also has a very low barrier to entry in that anyone can call themselves a “professional” without any basis for that claim. Yet these are people who come into your home and use cleaning chemicals which can be dangerous if you do not have the knowledge of how to use them properly, and more importantly do not have the right equipment (not a rented shampooer) to remove them properly.

Everyone has heard nightmare stories about crimes committed, about overuse or improper use of chemicals, and exposès on Bait-and-Switch companies who use a low coupon offers to get their foot in the door and hard sell unsuspecting consumers into a bill they are compelled to pay. When you open the phone book you really can’t tell who the great cleaners are, or the ones you would never EVER want to use. The “great” cleaners work hard to distinguish themselves apart from the fly-by-night companies who use unsafe cleaning practices, hard-sell tactics, and sometimes have very unsavory employees.

Your carpet and rugs act as a “filter” in your home for your indoor air. Their fibers “grab” particulates and contaminants and hold them. But like any filter, it needs to be cleaned because when it gets full it cannot grab anything else … and every time you step on a “full” filter you release contaminants back into the air.

Cleaning your carpet is key to a healthy indoor environment, and the EPA’s guidelines for cleaning vary from every four months to every eighteen depending on the number of people and pets in the home, as well as other concerns from allergic sensitivities to how dusty the air is in your neighborhood to whether anyone in the home smokes. A true carpet cleaning professional can evaluate your particular needs, and with the right equipment and cleaning solutions, can fulfill those needs for you and your family.

The question now is how to find that “right” professional … and we have the information to help you do just that.

The following is a summary on how to choose the right professional carpet cleaner. It covers some of the common mistakes made by consumers in choosing a carpet cleaner, and also the four steps you can take to help you in choosing a true “professional.”

How to deep clean a rug: our guide for a cleaner, healthier rug

In most houses, carpets tend to be made of tougher material. It’s a pragmatic choice – your carpets will have to put up with plenty of abuse on the daily. Rugs on the other hand tend to be more ornamental. Most use them to highlight specific rooms or to fit a certain style.

As such, there’s much more variation in terms of material and durability. Consequently, deep cleaning a rug is different from cleaning your carpet. It often involves completely different techniques and tools.

Start with a quick vacuum

Vacuuming is step one of deep cleaning a rug. While it mightn’t rid your rug of deep stains and messes, it removes surface-level dirt and debris, making the rest of the job significantly easier.

Here are a couple pointers when it comes to vacuuming a rug:

Start gently using a lower setting

Make sure your rug is completely dry

Don’t forget to vacuum both sides

Zero in on discoloured areas

Check the label

Like we mentioned before, rugs tend to be ornamental in nature. That means materials too delicate for carpet use often find their way into rugs. These materials often require special treatment. If you don’t know where to start, be sure to check for any special instruction on the tag

Features to Look for When Buying a Carpet Cleaner

If you are in the process of buying a new carpet cleaner, there are certain things you need to bear in mind. Aside from the price, you have to take various factors into account. Discussed below are the top features you need to look for in an ideal carpet cleaner. Use them as a guide when you make your choice.

Some people may confuse a carpet cleaner with a vacuum cleaner, however, there is a big difference between the two. Before we delve into the discussion of making a perfect choice, let’s try to figure out the basic difference between a vacuum cleaner and carpet cleaner.

Vacuum cleaner vs carpet cleaner

As already said, for many, a carpet cleaner is equated to a vacuum cleaner. Certainly, it is not the case. A vacuum cleaner just sucks up dirt and other solid particles from carpet but carpet cleaners are meant for deep cleaning that includes a long process of washing, rinsing, scrubbing, and thoroughly cleaning up with liquid carpet cleaning agents.

No water or cleaning agent is used in case of a vacuum cleaner. This type of cleaning involves dry cleaning to make the carpet look fresh and clean. Small (compatible) attachments that come bundled with the pack offer flexibility to clean narrow areas, corners, stairs and areas between cushions and mattresses.

On the other hand, carpet cleaners use water to steam clean the carpet using a liquid cleaning solution/shampoo. The cleaner brushes spin at a high speed to isolate the rug fibers and loosen dirt. Water and cleaning agent are extracted into a wastewater container, resulting in deep cleaning. The machine removes the cleaning shampoo and dries the carpet surface in real-time.

Consumer Awareness Guide to Carpet Cleaning

Choosing the right carpet cleaning method, and the right company can be confusing. In this guide, we will share with you six costly misconceptions about carpet cleaning. We will also offer 4 recommendations. We will also provide ten questions that you should ask a carpet cleaner before you invite him into your home.

You should wait as long as possible before cleaning your carpet.

No. Dirt is an abrasive – like sandpaper. Every time you step on the carpet, you grind dirt into your carpet fibers. This cuts your carpet, just as if you had used a knife, causing it to wear out faster. A soiled carpet will not last nearly as long as a clean carpet. And while vacuuming helps – by itself, it’s simply not enough. The longer you wait to have your carpet cleaned, the more damage you do to your carpet and the faster it wears out.

The only reason to clean carpets is to get the dirt and spots out.

No. As you probably know, outdoor air contains pollens, fungus, bacteria, air pollution, cigarette smoke, car exhaust – and hundreds of other harmful chemicals. When you and your family members enter your home, you carry those pollens and chemicals in your hair and on your skin, clothing, and shoes. Not surprisingly, all those chemicals, pollens and bacteria end up – you guessed it – in your carpet. .

If you have allergies, asthma, emphysema, or other breathing problems – one major source of your problem could be the pollutants and contaminants in your carpet. Carpet is a wonderful air filter, and prevents many of these pollutants from becoming airborne again and inhaled, as would occur on a hard surface. However, like any filter, your carpet needs to be cleaned out periodically.

Tobacco smoke contains over 4000 separate chemical compounds, 43 of which cause cancer. Even if you don’t smoke, those chemicals get on your shoes; you track them in to your home and deposit them in your carpet. If you’re sensitive to cigarette smoke, you’ll find that you’ll breathe easier after you hire a company to properly remove those harmful chemicals from your carpet. So in addition to getting rid of dirt and spots, another important reason to clean your carpet is to flush out the pollens, fungus, bacteria, fertilizer, and chemicals and tars related to tobacco smoke.

Carpet cleaning & Maintenance guide

Implementation of an adequate cleaning and maintenance regime from the time of installation of your commercial carpeting, makes it is possible to safeguard your carpet’s appearance, enhance the image of your installation and ensure continued high performance throughout its life cycle.

Installation of barrier matting

As 80% of carpet soilage is footborne, positioning adequate barrier matting at main entrance points is vital – ideally 4 metres deep into the building, to function at maximum efficiency. has a range of suitable products including the Barriertex Entrance Matting System which combines shoe scraper and absorbent strips to form an effective defence against the ingress of dirt, grit and moisture into your facility. sorbent strips to form an effective defence against the ingress of dirt, grit and moisture into your facility.

Secondary matting is also effective at crisis points – in lifts, where hard surfaces meet carpet, by vending machines etc.

Matting must be vacuumed regularly and cleaned periodically or it will act as a source of soiling to adjacent areas.

Regular carpet maintenance

As carpet has the ability to conceal soilage it can appear to be clean when it is not, however, this should not result in delayed cleaning and maintenance, because when it appears dirty it can be hiding very high levels of soilage.

A Programme of Regular Carpet Maintenance should include the following elements:

Effective Vacuuming – A vital element in any Cleaning & Maintenance Regime to reduce fibre abrasion & wear. High usage areas should be vacuumed daily to prevent the unsightly build up of dry soilage – dirt ,dust and grit. Use of an upright twin motor vacuum cleaner agitates pile, removes dry soilage & enhances carpet appearance. Tub Vacuums are not as effective, unless fitted with a turbo brush attachment to agitate the fibres and loosen soiling.

Regular Spot Removal – Spots and spills usually form 5-10% of soiling, with beverages & food spills the most common. Failure to remove unsightly marks on a regular basis increases the chance of permanent staining & leads to a decline in appearance, For quick and easy spot removal use a specialised kit e.g. Host Spotting Kit or Spotzapper Kit. See also our Simple Spot & Spill Remover Guide below.

Periodic Cleaning – The required frequency for appearance retention will depend on carpet colour, type of installation and traffic flow. To allow carpet to soil excessively before cleaning can lead to premature replacement. A Carpet Maintenance Programme can be tailored to your premises and budget.

Dry Extraction Carpet Cleaning is a very effective method of deep cleaning. A cleaning compound containing absorbent particles and emulsifiers e.g. HOST, is brushed into the pile where it absorbs the soilage and is then extracted. The process minimizes disruption as it requires no drying time and enables carpets to return to use immediately. Enables carpets to be cleaned as often as required without damage or rapid resoiling.

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Heal Self Esteem With The Help Of Dermatologist

What to expect when you have a mole removed

If you have an abnormal mole, you may need to have it removed. Removing a suspicious mole and examining it for cancer cells is an important step in catching melanoma early, when it’s easiest to treat. During a skin cancer screening exam your dermatologist may find an abnormal mole. An abnormal mole could be a melanoma symptom, or it could be benign, meaning it’s not cancerous. To determine what type of cells make up the mole, the dermatologist will remove the mole for a biopsy.

Here’s what to expect if you are visiting the dermatologist.

Skin self-check

Before your appointment, you should check out your own moles by doing a skin self-exam. Look for the ABCs of melanoma, and note any of the following symptoms so you can point them out to your dermatologist. These skin cancer symptoms include:

  • Asymmetry: The two sides of the mole look different from each other.
  • Border: The mole’s border is crooked, jagged or irregular.
  • Color: The mole is multi-colored.
  • Diameter: The width is more than 6 millimeters, which is about the size of pencil eraser.
  • Evolution: The mole has changed in size, shape or feeling.

Dermatologist exam

During the appointment, your dermatologist will look for any abnormal moles. If an abnormal mole is noted on exam, your dermatologist may recommend monitoring it closely for any changes or removing it for a biopsy.

If a mole looks concerning, a biopsy is done so that the mole can be examined further under a microscope. This gives us a more definite diagnosis based on a close-up view of how the cells in the mole look and are arranged.

Removing a mole          

First, the dermatologist will give you a numbing injection near the mole. This may pinch a little, but should keep you from feeling any pain during the removal. There are a few different techniques your dermatologist may use to remove the mole. These techniques include:

  • Shave biopsy – a razor blade is used to shave off the mole and the skin around it
  • Punch biopsy – A punch tool is placed over the mole and used to “punch” out the mole
  • Scalpel removal – A scalpel is used to remove the mole and skin surrounding it and stitches are used to help the skin heal

Normal vs. Atypical Moles

“Normal” moles are typically smaller than a pencil eraser, round and symmetrical with an even color and smooth borders. They are often tan or pink, and though you may not like them cosmetically, there is no medical reason to have them removed.

Atypical moles — also called dysplastic nevi — are unusual looking moles that are non-cancerous. When viewed at the cellular level, these moles look different than healthy, normal moles. They may be asymmetric, very dark or multi-colored and may have indistinct borders. Often found on the back, chest, buttocks or scalp, these moles look different than the other moles on your body.

Atypical moles may look like melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer — but don’t worry, they’re not cancerous. Atypical moles won’t necessarily develop into skin cancer, but if you have 10 or more dysplastic nevi moles, you do have a higher risk of developing melanoma (roughly 12 times the risk of the general population). Melanoma can spread very quickly but is curable if caught early.

How moles are removed

A mole can usually be removed by a dermatologist in a single office visit. Occasionally, a second appointment is necessary.

The two primary procedures used to remove moles are:

  • Shave excision. For this procedure, your dermatologist uses a thin, razor-like tool to carefully slice away the mole. A device with a tiny electrode at the end may be used to perform electrosurgical feathering.

The feathering helps minimize the appearance of the excision by blending the edges of the wound with the surrounding skin. Stitches are not needed after a shave excision. The mole is usually examined under a microscope afterwards to check for signs of skin cancer.

  • Surgical excision. This procedure is deeper than a shave excision and more like traditional surgery. Your dermatologist cuts out the entire mole and below to the subcutaneous fat layer, and stitches the incision closed. The mole will then be examined for cancer cells.

You should never try mole removal yourself. The risks of infection and bad scarring are too great. And if the mole was cancerous, you may leave cancer cells behind.

Self-checking moles

While they generally do not pose a health threat, moles should be self-checked regularly. Schedule a skin exam if you find a new mole or a change in an existing one. A mole that starts to change or grow in size could be a sign of skin cancer.

Whether you choose to have a mole removed for health or cosmetic reasons, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with first. It may seem convenient to use over-the-counter products or home remedies to remove small moles. But it is wise to check with your doctor to make sure the mole is not potentially cancerous.

Skin cancer screening:

If a mole starts to grow, itch, or bleed, make an appointment to see a dermatologist.

Moles are common. Almost every adult has a few moles. Adults who have light skin often have more moles. They may have 10 to 40 moles on their skin. This is normal.

You should not be overly worried about your moles. But you should know:

  • A type of skin cancer, melanoma, can grow in or near a mole.
  • Caught early and treated, melanoma can be cured.
  • The first sign of melanoma is often a change to a mole — or a new mole on your skin.
  • Checking your skin can help you find melanoma early. A dermatologist can show you how to examine your skin and tell you how often you should check your skin.
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The Life Cycle Of Pest Species Wasps

The Complete Guide to How to Get Rid of Wasps

Spring and summer lead to more time playing outdoors and enjoying the weather. Unfortunately, it can also mean wasps take up residence around your yard, porch, and home. A wasp infestation can be annoying, painful, and even potentially dangerous.

Common Types of Wasps

Before you determine how to get rid of wasps, you need to figure out what type of wasps are invading your space and exactly where their nest is located. Knowing the difference between wasps and bees is the first step in determining the species that is invading your property. There are a few distinguishing traits that make wasps stand out. While bees are hairy, with rounded bodies, wasps have a slender, tapered waist that connects their abdomen and thorax. Wasps are also smooth and shiny.

Paper Wasps

These are the type of wasps that most people think of. They often build nests near the entryways of homes. While they won’t sting unless feeling threatened, sudden movements or slamming doors can be a trigger. Paper wasps tend to swarm if they feel the colony is threatened.

Size: 3/4 to 1 inch long

Color: Mostly brownish-black with red or yellow striping along their head and abdomen

Nest Characteristics: Nests are created of paper-like materials, shaped like umbrellas, and are typically built under eaves and ledges.

Hornets

There are different types of hornets which may vary in size and color. Some species look similar to yellowjackets but are typically larger. Hornets aren’t typically aggressive, but nests can contain hundreds of worker bees that become extremely angry when disturbed.

Size: About 1.25 inches

Color: Bald-faced hornets are black with black or pale yellow stripes. Giant European hornets are yellow and brown.

Nest Characteristics: Nests resemble a large grayish tear-shaped ball. Nests are typically attached to a bush, tree, or the side of a building. They can also be found in attics, barns, and hollow walls.

Yellowjackets

Yellowjackets are easily agitated and will vigorously defend their nest.

Size: 3/8 to 5/8 inch

Color: Bright yellow and black striped pattern

Nest Location: Typically in the ground, nests are often created from abandoned animal burrows. Nests are also sometimes located inside structures or hang from structures.

How to Get Rid of Wasps Safely, Step by Step

Wasps don’t often interact with people, but if provoked, they can sting. Wasp stings can be painful to all and threatening to those with allergies. If you’ve got a wasp problem, here is everything you need to know about these pesky insects, including how to get rid of wasps naturally, how to check for infestations, and how to kill wasps with homemade wasp kill.

What do wasps look like?

Wasps are not bees and typically have longer, more slender bodies. They commonly feed on insects such as flies, caterpillars, and spiders, as well as nectar. Wasps have six legs, two wings, two antennae on their head, an exoskeleton, and a body divided into three main parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen.

Unlike a bee, the female wasp can sting repeatedly, as her stinger has small barbs that do not embed into the skin. A female wasp’s stinger is located at the very tip of her lower body and doubles as a reproductive organ through which she lays her eggs. Males wasps, on the other hand, cannot sting.

How do you get wasps?

Three main elements attract wasps to take up residence in your home or yard:

Ideal nesting spots, such as eaves, gutters, and soffits that offer protection

Sweet, nectar-filled flowers and plant life

Food sources, such as garbage bags, pet food bowls, outdoor eating areas with crumbs or sticky spills, or an abundance of insects or spiders

How to check for wasps

If you notice a large number of wasps flying around your home or yard, you likely have a wasp nest somewhere on your property. To locate a wasp nest, first observe a wasp from afar to see which direction it flies. You can also leave out food (such as pet food or canned tuna) to lure the wasps before following them cautiously back to their nesting place.

How To Get Rid of Wasps and Yellow Jackets

It never fails: Once temperatures start rising, you inevitably step into your yard to a persistent, tell-tale buzzing and zipping. All it takes is one sting to develop a healthy respect for all manner of wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets. So keeping your outdoor spaces free of them is a priority.

What’s the difference between a wasp, hornet, and yellow jacket?

While often confused, they do vary in a few ways. The first is size: Wasps are smaller, anywhere from one centimeter to two-and-a-half centimeters, while hornets are larger, at about one to one-and-a-half-inches long. Unlike bees, which are important pollinators (find out the best flowering plants to attract bees here!), wasps and hornets are carnivorous; they prey on smaller insects like aphids and houseflies (so they are beneficial in their own way). Wasps love your sugary drinks and may hover over your picnic pickings hoping for a taste

While it’s possible to get rid of wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets on your own, remember that they can be dangerous, especially in large numbers, so if you’re in doubt, it’s best to call a professional to help. Of course, if you are allergic to wasp or bee stings, you need to take precautions and seek outside help. If you feel confident handling your situation, read on for tips that can help with removal

How to get rid of wasps

First off: Don’t swat at them! Swatting at a wasp tells it to release pheromones that will trigger other nearby wasps to perceive you as a threat, exactly what you don’t want to happen.

If you’re working ahead and trying to prevent a nest from forming, you can try putting up a fake nest to deter a real one from forming (wasps are territorial). If you already have a nest that you need to be rid of, you first need to evaluate the size of the nest. Is it small (just a few to a dozen cells)? If so, you can suit up (long sleeves, pants tucked into your socks, a head net, gloves) and knock the nest down during the coolest time of day and destroy it. If it’s larger, set up multiple wasp traps a good distance away from your home, and follow the instructions on the trap.

How to Get Rid of Wasps, Hornets, and Yellow Jackets

Several species of wasps can be beneficial to gardens as pollinators, but others can cause harm to homes and people. Wasp stings are painful for most and can cause anaphylactic shock in those that are allergic. That is why it is imperative to control wasp nests around and inside homes, apartments, and commercial buildings.

Before you treat for wasps and hornets, be sure to wear the following to protect against stings:

Long-sleeves

Long pants

Thick work gloves

Closed-toe shoes

You can even wear a complete bee suit if you are worried about stings.

Treat and Remove the Nest

If you know where a wasp or hornet nest is, you can treat the nest directly before removing the nest. There are two ways to treat the nest – drenching and dusting. Hornet nest removal is the same as wasp removal as both pests are very similar

To drench the nest:

1. Mix a concentrated liquid insecticide, such as CS, with water in a hand pump sprayer according to the product label.

2. Next, spray the 2-3 square foot area surrounding the nest with your spray mixture.

3. Then, adjust the nozzle of your sprayer to a pin stream and spray your insecticide mixture directly into the interior of the nest. Be armed with a can of pyrethrin aerosol, such as, to spray any wasps that emerge from the nest.

The combination of spraying around and inside the nest will kill adult wasps and leave behind a residual to kill any hatching wasps. After the product has dried you should be able to safely remove the nest.

Wasp behaviour and differences from bees

There are many differences between wasps and bees. Wasps are less hairy and slimmer than bees, and their stripes are more distinct, often a bright yellow. The other significant difference is that wasps are more much likely to attack humans. Unlike bees, which can sting only once and then die, wasps can be repeat offenders, if they so choose. And unlike mosquitoes, wasps do not feed on human blood. If they sting, it is only in self-defence.

The main reason wasps come and go is to find food. They consume sugary foods such as nectar and honeydew, a substance produced by aphids and other insects. Wasps also feed on ripe fruit and berries as well as meat. They help themselves to sources of food in recycling bins and garbage cans.

Sizes and shapes of wasp nests

There exist various types of wasps. They can be distinguished by the size and location of their nest. There are three main types of wasp nest:

The smallest is about the size of a hand and looks like an umbrella. It houses 15 to 200 paper wasps (genus Polistes), which are not particularly quick to sting.

The hidden nest, underground or in a dark place, home to much nastier wasps: yellow jackets, or Vespula.

The largest nest, with room for up to 5,000 wasps. Common sites are roof overhangs, porches and trees. It may contain yellow jackets but also hornets (Dolichovespula), which are not very aggressive.

Tips for keeping wasps away from your home

When eating outdoors, keep food in covered containers, and quickly put table scraps in a closable garbage bin.

Avoid funnel-shaped wasp traps. Even if you put them far from your table, the bait they contain will quickly attract the entire neighbourhood’s wasps!

Wash your recycling bin regularly and, above all, rinse wine, juice or soft drink bottles that could attract wasps. Place them well away from high-traffic areas, especially where children play.

What to do to avoid being stung by a wasp?

If a wasp is buzzing around you or lands on you, avoid any sudden move. Push it away gently, because it may turn angry if it feels it’s being attacked. Also, a crushed wasp sets off a chemical alarm that calls in fellow wasps as back-ups.

Avoid going near a wasp nest without good reason, especially late in the summer.

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Is An Auto Repair Franchise In Your Future

The ultimate car maintenance checklist

A SCHEDULE OF PREVENTATIVE TASKS

To maximize the life and performance of your vehicle, here is a list of items you should check depending on the time and season. Some of these parts of your vehicle should be checked regularly, and others only in the long run. Be sure to follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and service interval record.

Caring for your car and keeping it in proper running order takes a little bit of effort, but you definitely don’t have to be a mechanical whiz to keep your vehicle running well. The biggest hurdle is being aware of what needs to be done—and how often—for optimal vehicle upkeep. By knowing the basics about what your car needs, and when you should perform routine car maintenance, you’ll ensure that your car is in top-running condition.

As an added bonus, if you can prove that your vehicle has been well maintained, you’ll be able to ask top dollar when it’s time to resell it. And, of course, it’s important to remember that car maintenance costs, while not always cheap, can ultimately help you avoid expensive repairs down the road.

To make it easy to keep track of your car maintenance schedule, we’ve created a simple, downloadable car maintenance checklist to help you keep on top of your automotive maintenance.

SHORT TERM CHECK-UPS

For proper vehicle maintenance, inspect the following:

OIL AND COOLANT LEVELS

Every month, or every few gas fill-ups and especially before any longer road trips, it’s a good idea to get under the hood of your car and inspect both the oil and coolant levels while the engine is cool. Low levels of either can lead to engine problems if left unchecked. Refer to your owner’s manual to locate both on your specific vehicle.

AIR FILTER

Your engine’s air filter is what regulates the air that flows into your engine and helps keep out debris and particulate. By making certain that your air filter is flowing properly, you can improve your fuel efficiency, decrease your emissions, and help ensure the life of your engine. This can be done easily at home, so check your owner’s manual for instructions and how often it needs to be changed.

TIRE PRESSURE AND TREAD DEPTH

Since well-maintained tires are integral to a safe, fuel-efficient ride, make it a habit to visually inspect your tires often. Check the pressure in your tires every month, and before long trips or carrying extra load.  Don’t forget the spare.  A tire pressure gauge will be needed to check your tire pressure. Also, during the colder months, note that tire pressure drops one pound with every 10 degree decrease in pressure. Your owner’s manual will tell you how much air pressure your tire needs. You can check your tread depth using the simple penny method.

HEADLIGHTS, TURN SIGNALS, BRAKE, AND PARKING LIGHTS

It’s important that the lights on your vehicle are properly functioning, but oftentimes it can be easy item to overlook. Once a month, turn on your headlights when you’re parked in front of a flat surface and check that both headlights are working properly and well-positioned. Walk around your car and visually inspect both turn signals and your parking lights. Have a friend stand behind the car while you engage the brakes to be certain that your brake lights are functional.

OIL & FILTER

The motor oil in your vehicle’s engine serves a whole slew of functions: it lubricates the moving parts, helps act as a sealant against debris, cools the engine, reduces wear and tear, and helps prevent engine corrosion. Keeping it clean is vital for good engine health. Depending on your car and what kind of oil you’re using, you may need to change both the oil & oil filter as much as every 3 months or 3000 miles. Many newer vehicles’ owners’ manuals will recommend changing your oil less frequently – often in-between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. Check your vehicle owner’s manual and consult with a professional to be certain what is appropriate for your vehicle.

ROTATE TIRES

Depending on your vehicle alignment, usage, and many other factors, the tread wear patterns on your tires may vary between the front and back tires, or even from one side of the tread to the other. Rotating your tires will help to extend the service life of your tires by more evenly balancing the tread wear, and helping prevent noise and vibration problems.

WAX VEHICLE

Making certain to wax your vehicle every six months after washing it won’t just keep it shiny, it’ll also help to keep both the paint in good shape and reduce the chance of rust. Many irritants such as dust, sand, and salt can build up and environmental factors like ozone and ultraviolet light can cause microscopic damage, but waxing can help minimize this by forming a protective seal to extend your paint’s life.

What is a warranty?

A warranty is a promise, often made by a manufacturer, to stand behind its product or to fix certain defects or malfunctions over a period of time. The warranty pays for any covered repairs or part replacements during the warranty period.

Tips To Avoid Warranty Issues

Here’s how to get the most out of your vehicle’s warranty:

  • Read your warranty. Often bundled with your owner’s manual, the warranty gives a general description and specific details about your coverage. If you have misplaced your owner’s manual, look for it online. Check the “Owners” section of your manufacturer’s website.
  • Be aware of your warranty period. If problems arise that are covered under the warranty, get them checked out before the warranty expires.
  • Service your car at regular intervals. This is a good idea in any case. But for the sake of keeping your warranty intact, follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Details are in your owner’s manual.
  • Keep all service records and receipts, regardless of who performs the service. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, belt replacement, new brake pads, and inspections. Create a file to keep track of repairs; it will come in handy if you have to use your warranty. If you ever have a warranty claim and it appears that you did not maintain your vehicle, your claim could be denied.
  • Complain. If you think a dealer’s service advisor denied your warranty claim unfairly, ask to speak with a supervisor. If you still aren’t satisfied, contact the manufacturer or go to another dealer. You also may wish to file a complaint with your state Attorney General, local consumer protection office, or the FTC.

Common mistakes that can cause damage to your vehicle

As a proud car owner, you want your vehicle to last as long as possible. In looking after it, the first rule is ‘do no harm’. Here are some blunders to avoid:

Riding your brakes down a long hill

Brake pads wear faster when they heat up, and a sure way to get them super-hot is to ride them all the way down a long hill. A better method is to alternate between braking and letting off the brake.

This is much easier on your brake pads, which won’t keep you safe if they’re worn down to nothing.

Using a pressure washer on your engine

Pressure washers are great for cleaning the grime off your concrete driveway – but not so great for cleaning your car engine, which is a complex piece of equipment with all sorts of small wires, sensors and components.

A high powered jet of water can dislodge electrical bits, hoses and rubber seals in an instant, and is simply a bad idea.

A few rags and some degreaser fluid is all you really need to clean a grimy engine and you probably only have to do this once or twice a year.

Forgetting to change your oil

This must be the most common mental lapse for car owners – leaving their oil change until the engine’s lubricant looks something like sludgy black molasses.

Old engine oil does your car no good at all, so you should change your oil as often as your car manual suggests (and this frequency varies between models). And don’t forget to change the oil filter now and then too.

Neglecting to use the parking brake

Whether you’re parked on a steep hill or reasonably flat ground, you should always use the parking brake.

Aside from obvious safety reasons, using the park brake takes the strain off your transmission — which is not designed to hold your car steady. Something as simple as getting into the habit of using your park brake can potentially add years to the life of your car.

Ignoring those funny sounds

If you let it, your car can talk to you. And if you listen carefully, you can work out what it’s trying to say. That squeak every time you open the passenger door means you need to oil the door hinges. That thumping sound can mean a loose exhaust pipe.

That whining noise can indicate a worn transmission. And that high-pitched squeal you hear when you put on the brakes is serious — it’s a sure sign your brake pads need replacing. Always listen to your car — it will often give you a clue when something isn’t working right.

Shifting from Reverse to Drive before you’ve come to a full stop

What’s one of the best ways to add months of unnecessary wear to your transmission within just a few seconds? It’s by being in too much of a hurry and switching from Reverse to Drive (or vice versa) while your car is still slowly moving.

You’re basically putting an incredible amount of strain on your gears by asking them to perform the same function as a brake. This can lead to a worn transmission, damaged drive shafts and sloppy suspension handling.

Be patient during the break-in period

You’ve bought your dream car and now you want to make it last as long as possible in top condition. Here are some things to remember as you pull it out of the dealer’s lot:

  • During the break-in period, typically the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), keep your speed under 55 mph (88 kpm) or to the speed recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
  • Avoid heavy loads on the drive train, such as towing trailers, and loading the roof rack or trunk with heavy construction materials.
  • Do not allow your new car to idle for long periods—this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially during break-in. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to every part of your engine.
  • Use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the engine rpms below 3,000 for the first few hours of driving.

Drive with care every day

Being car considerate shouldn’t stop after the break-in. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.

  • Do not race your car’s engine during start-up. This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.
  • Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive. The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first 10 to 20 minutes of operation.
  • Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea. The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.
  • Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.
  • Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behavior will result in more frequent repairs.
  • Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Don’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber.
  • When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump.
  • Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear—as well as the pollution your car generates—takes place in the first few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, during low traffic hours if possible, will keep your engine happier longer