It is very easy to scare the average homeowner when it comes to their HVAC systems. Not only is the system a highly sophisticated and complicated device, far beyond the capability of most DIY handymen, but the ductwork in your home is virtually invisible. If someone comes along and tells you that it is in need of a cleaning, you may be inclined to immediately believe them, because you can’t see for yourself and prove them wrong.

 

The truth is, there are definitely some times when duct cleaning is advised and necessary, but there are also many companies out there trying to scare you into accepting substandard service for no good reason.

 

To help you make sense of what air duct cleaning is, and when you do and don’t need it, here is an easy-to-follow breakdown.

 

Immediate Cleaning Is Recommended If…

 

• You Can See Buildup – The vents in your home will get dusty, just like everything else in your home will get dusty if left alone long enough. However, the dust should easily wipe away. If that is not the case, of if you can see dust and debris piling up behind the vents, there may be a problem in your ductwork. Air duct cleaning services can perform a complete inspection and cleaning to address the problem
• You Recently Renovated Your Home – The filters on your HVAC system can handle regular household dust, but the material kicked up during a home renovation is a taller order. As a safety precaution, especially if you live in an older home where lead paint or asbestos may be present, it is recommended that you have your air ducts and HVAC system thoroughly cleaned after home renovations.
• Someone in Your Home Has Respiratory Sensitivities – Some indoor allergies can be quite severe, as can asthma. If someone in your home is suffering frequent respiratory distress, there may be a problem in your ductwork. An inspection and cleaning is recommended to remove harmful allergens and irritants.
• Mold Was Found In Your Home – Mold can be extremely hazardous to your health, and also very difficult to get rid of. As part of a professional and thorough a mold removal, be sure to get your HVAC system and air ducts thoroughly cleaned.

 

• Animals Chewed Into Your System – One mouse can do an awful lot of damage, and a family of mice living in your air ducts is that much worse. Some animals can carry diseases that are harmful to humans, and animals nesting in your air ducts could be spreading them throughout your home. Immediate cleaning is recommended upon the discovery of animal problems.

 

Cleaning is NOT Required If…

 

• The Tech Can’t Show You The Problem – Before beginning any cleaning service, the tech who visits your home should be able to show you why a cleaning is necessary. This is usually done either with a scope, or by removing the vents so that you can clearly see the problem for yourself.
• Substandard Equipment Is Brought on Site – Duct cleaning companies are certified to safely remove dust and debris. Doing this improperly, or with substandard equipment can lead to bigger problems.
• The Company Rep Keeps Trying to Upsell You – You may get sales pitches about special sprays or sealants, “whole house specials,” or other vague promises of doing a better job than they would otherwise do. Air duct cleaning should be thorough and professional no matter what. If someone keeps trying to upsell you, all they’re really promising is to take more money.

 

Before signing on for an air duct cleaning, always ask for recommendations, and read online reviews to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company. Good work always speaks for itself.

 

 

Most adults could already tell you that moving is very stressful. The packing, the logistics, the work arrangements – it all piles up both before and after moving day itself. However, in all the runaround, it is sometimes easy to overlook how difficult moving might be for your kids.

 

Here is a list of a few things you can do to help make your moving process easier and less intimidating for the little ones in your life.

 

Have a Family Meeting

If you have not yet broken the news about the move, it is probably best to do it at a time when the entire family is present, and in a relaxed atmosphere. You can do this at the dinner table, in the living room, or anywhere else that you are prepared to listen to what the kids have to say.

 

Go for a New Home Visit

If possible, bring the kids to see your new home. This can often happen during a walk-through or inspection. Make sure that you allow plenty of time, as kids generally want to do some serious exploring of their new digs.

 

If you are moving a long distance, and are therefore not able to make an additional visit, show the kids as many pictures or video walk-throughs as you can. The more they see their new house ahead of time, the more comfortable they will be.

Come Up With a Room Plan

Once the idea of a new home begins sinking in, the first thing kids want to know is usually “which one is my room?” Involve your kids in planning out their new rooms. As you pack up the kids belongings for the local movers, make a big show of writing your child’s name on the boxes. This helps build excitement about their brand-new room, as they plan it out.

 

Host a Going Away Party

Kids love routine and structure, and nothing shakes up either one quite like moving away. One of the sturdiest foundations of any child’s life are the people surrounding them, so leaving good friends and neighbors behind can be very tough for the little ones.

 

Host a going away party so that your kids can see the special people in their life one more time before setting out on their new adventure. The party does not have to be a huge or fancy affair, it just has to include the people your children will miss the most. During the party, make plans to stay in touch. Get Skype names or mailing addresses, and write them down on lists so that your kids can bring them to the new place, and can reach out any time there feeling a bit homesick

 

Arrange for Some Time Off (But Not Too Much!)

Depending on how big an undertaking moving day will be, it may be appropriate to schedule some time off from school for your little ones. It is not unreasonable to think that kids may need an extra day to get used to the house, before they then go off and get use to a brand-new school as well.

 

However, routine is best for kids. Taking a small breather is a great idea, but getting them into their new school so that they can begin meeting new friends is also a priority

 

As your family becomes explorers in your new town, you might find that your kids are warming up to their surroundings quicker than you thought. The best thing to do is to help kids feel included in this huge event.

 

Author Bio

Niv Orlian is an online marketer and the Co-Founder of DO Online Marketing, a Chicago based company that helps local businesses such as Golan’s Moving & Storage, acquire, manage, and retain local customers online

Every year Christmas tree fires injure more than 2,500 people in America, according to the United States Fire Administration. Even when they’re seemingly safe in a cozy and beautifully decorated living room, Christmas trees can trigger serious allergies to mold.

 

But this doesn’t have to be the case. No one should have to be Mr. Scrooge during the holidays. Christmas trees are beautiful and potent and bring warm cozy feelings.

 

With instructions on how to safely place a Christmas tree and what precautions to take, readers and parents can rest assured knowing the tree won’t pose harm to their children. Additionally, people who have allergies but still want to decorate a tree can abide by the following helpful tips to prevent or minimize allergy symptoms.

 

According to the USFA, two out of five home decor fires are started by candles and one of every 31 Christmas tree fires results in death. Many of these tragic results can be prevented in the future, however.

 

First, understand that natural trees need water to live. Thus, when they’re brought in a home, it’s important to maintain water levels at the base. When trees dry, they are more likely to catch fire. Keeping this in mind:

• Try to purchase a fresh, well-maintained tree that isn’t close to death. Check for branch strength and a vibrant green color.
• Cut the base of the tree at a 45-degree angle for longer lifespan.

Check to see where Christmas trees are grown because typically locally-grown trees are the freshest.

 

Second, remember to keep heat sources away from the tree. The USFA recommends a safe proximity of at least three feet.

 

Third, check the condition of your Christmas tree lights. Old strands that have frayed or split wires are more likely to cause fire and pose serious danger.

 

Fourth, the USFA recommends keeping candles at least one foot away from potentially flammable items. Try to find a stable holder for the candles to avoid spillage. If possible, use battery-operated candles. These candles have long lifespans and are much safer.

 

Fifth, ensure your fire alarm is functioning properly before bringing the Christmas tree in doors.

 

Sixth, do not keep the tree in the house longer than necessary. Putting up and taking down the tree at proper times is important because the longer the tree stands, the drier it becomes. Not only does this lead to increased flammability, as mentioned above, but it can also lead to a flare-up in allergy symptoms.

 

To prevent allergies, be sure to brush off the tree to remove dust. Then, rinse the tree off outside and allow it to air-dry before bringing inside. Trees can carry mold and disease that may not be fatal but could certainly pose health risks to those with sensitive allergies.

 

Abiding by these tips will lead to a healthier and safer holiday season. It’s important to note, however, that there are always unexpected dangers that can occur. Practice caution when deciding where to place the tree (hopefully not near the fireplace!), and keep track of any allergy symptoms that seem more severe than normal.