Feb 16, 2019 | Homeowners
As technology becomes more advanced, solar panels using photovoltaic cells to absorb sunlight and create electricity are becoming more affordable, portable and efficient. They are readily available in various sizes to serve a range of needs. Smaller self-powered units are now very common – think of wireless patio lights with solar panels on their tops.
But other types are also gaining wider use. For example, you can buy flexible solar panels small enough to roll up and carry on a backpack, and then roll out to capture sunlight for powering a computer or smartphone while camping, hiking or boating.
On a larger scale, any rooftop, balcony or yard with reasonably consistent exposure to direct sunlight, might be a potential site for a solar panel that provides free energy for home use.
Such installations, of course, would require further investigation, as the upfront costs can be quite high. To begin, check your current electricity bill to see how much you consume in order to determine the size of panels you would need. Next, speak to an expert to find out if your exposure gets enough sunlight to generate sufficient electricity to be worthwhile – a quick search on google will help you find one in your area. Finally, find manufacturers and installers and look for government agencies that may provide discounts, rebates or credits for the electricity you generate.
Feb 1, 2019 | Homeowners
Try rubbing a piece of raw walnut on a light but visible scrape on the surface of a wood furnishing to provide a temporary natural lustre.- Keep track of your chosen colours by writing the paint source and code on the handle of the stir stick before tossing empty paint cans.
- Clean a scorched pan by filling with boiling water to mid-point, mixing in a few teaspoons of baking soda and allowing to cool before scrubbing.
- Measure servings of cookie dough easily by coating your spoon with a layer of milk to prevent the raw dough from sticking.
- Remove coffee stains from most synthetic upholstery and carpeting by repeatedly sponging the area with a clean white cloth soaked in a mixture of mild dish detergent and water, then dabbing with a clean white cloth rinsed in cold water.
Dec 21, 2018 | Homeowners
Until recently, even the latest home security system could become obsolete overnight. But, newer whole-home integration systems are much more compatible with interchangeable parts and innovative add-ons. As a result, it’s now possible to have a multi-faceted security system that watches over many functions and activities in and around your home. For example, you can organize and control your home’s exterior cameras, motion detectors, door locks, window coverings, lighting, entertainment, appliances and HVAC with one system.
If you’re buying an entirely new system at once, there are many established and emerging brands available, so consider their functions, cost, convenience and reliability. But, if you want to introduce a whole-home system to manage existing utilities and appliances, things can become more challenging. You will need to ensure that your specific devices can communicate with your new hub, which means you need to identify the protocol under which they can share information. Because their compatibility is not certain, it’s advisable to identify the make and model of your existing equipment before you purchase a new security hub or system.
Dec 17, 2018 | Homeowners
It’s incumbent upon homeowners to ensure that fire safety is top-of-mind at all times. An all-encompassing approach should include steps for preventing, detecting, extinguishing and escaping potential fires. Prevention entails careful monitoring of any ignition procedure, whether it’s in the kitchen, utility room, workshop or garage, and ensuring that any active flame (or burning cigarette) is never left unattended. As well, prevention should include making fire-safe decisions when buying renovation materials, appliances, drapery, upholstery and mattresses.
As for detection, there are various types of alarms to consider. Be mindful that all battery-operated alarms should have their batteries replaced twice a year. Fire extinguishers, of course, can limit costly damage and prevent a small fire from getting out of control. Strategically place a fire extinguisher in key locations throughout your house. Be sure each extinguisher is designed for the type of fire it is designed to extinguish (i.e. A, B or C grade fires). As with all safety equipment, check that operational dates are not expired. If you’re ever unsure, invest in a new one.
Finally, every household member needs to know multiple exit paths in case of fire, especially from above or below the entrance level or ground floor. Be sure to designate a safe meeting area as part of your escape plan, and have a fire drill and/or conversation about it once a year.
Jul 31, 2018 | Homeowners
As our residential air conditioners hum throughout the summer, it’s easy to assume they are keeping indoor air clean while keeping rooms comfortable. But their ability to “clean” the air we breathe is directly related to the quality of their filtering systems, and the volume they’re forced to handle.
Not all air filters are alike, so you need to check your air conditioner filter ratings for effectiveness, and be sure to wash or replace it as instructed. Furthermore, filters don’t necessarily clean or purify fully.
So, if you sense that the “conditioned” air in your home is compromised in its quality, you might consider supplementing your AC system with a more efficient and specialized filtering unit that can offer verifiable assurances that your air is free of specific irritants, allergens and/or toxins.
Feb 16, 2018 | Homeowners
Watch any TV cooking show, and you’ll notice that a chef’s kitchen looks quite a bit different than what you’d find in most homes. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t have one just like it in your home! With a little remodeling, and splurging on some new items, you too can have a kitchen worthy of Gordon Ramsey, Jamie Oliver, or Rachel Ray.
Chefs love counter space. So, when remodeling, plan to create as much as possible. If you have an existing island, for example, you can replace the countertop with a larger one. Just adding eight inches in both directions will make a big difference.
Most chefs have more than one oven. If that’s impractical for you, consider buying a double-oven stove. Also, chefs prefer gas burners for quicker heat-up times and exacting control of cooking temperature.
One thing you’ll notice about chefs is they love stainless steel. That’s because it’s easy-to-clean, hygienic and durable (assuming you take care of it).
Finally, because chefs spend so much time in the kitchen, they want the space to be attractive and comfortable. So, when remodeling, keep decor in mind.
Even if you’re just an amateur chef, creating a chef-worthy kitchen will make the foodie in you smile.
