4 Things That Can Damage Your Exterior AC Unit

December 5, 2018 by 1 Comment

It’s easy to ignore your HVAC unit. Outside of replacing the air filter, it may seem like you don’t have to do much to keep your exterior air conditioner running. But this system is exposed to lots of risks, and it’s entirely possible for a problem — one that could easily have been prevented with routine maintenance — to totally disable the system. These are a few different ways an outdoor AC unit can get damaged.

 

Debris

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Image via Flickr by scubadive67

 

Since your exterior AC unit is outside, it’s at risk of being crushed by falling debris. Though the unit is protected by its casing, some parts are particularly vulnerable. The exhaust fans, for example, can be damaged by debris from trees, and the coils can similarly be flattened. These problems may not disable the unit entirely, though. In some cases, the system simply won’t run as well because the damage has restricted the air flow or otherwise affected the air conditioner’s efficiency.

 

When this happens, you’ll notice issues like the unit taking longer to cool the home. You’ll also discover higher utility bills as the system must now work harder to reach the desired temperature. You can prevent this problem to a degree by keeping the trees trimmed and watching for yard debris that could be blown toward and damage the unit.

Regular maintenance is another way to mitigate this type of damage. Especially before the peak season, a checkup of your system can prevent seasonal HVAC problems such as refrigerant leaks and worn-out belts. Your HVAC technician can also help identify debris in your yard that could damage the system.

 

Overgrowth Near the Unit

Lawncare is also essential to keeping an outdoor unit running well. Overgrowth can make it hard for the system to run and more difficult for a technician to access the unit for checkups and repairs. Just be cautious when mowing near the air conditioner. Lawnmowers can throw grass and dirt in the air, and some of that debris can wind up in your HVAC unit.

 

You can use a hose and light water pressure to clean off the surface of the unit. A technician can help with more intensive cleanings.

 

Rust

Rust is the natural result of any material containing iron being exposed to oxygen and moisture for a long period of time. Since your AC is outdoors, it’s at risk of rust formation.

This is especially true for the inside component since it’s easier for moisture to become trapped inside. If it’s newly formed, you have time to remove rust. A technician can help with more serious repairs.

 

Wear and Tear

It’s natural for your outdoor AC unit to experience some damage over time from basic use. Especially if you live in a warm climate, you’re likely running your air conditioner 24/7 during seasonal peaks. Some parts will wear down simply from heavy use. Again, routine maintenance checks can confirm whether any components are worn-out and need to be replaced before they cause a severe, expensive problem with the HVAC system.

 

Outdoor units are exposed to unique risks. Maintain your AC and get professional help when needed to keep your HVAC system in top shape.

 

 

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Gifts For the Gamer in Your Life #GiftGuide

December 1, 2018 by 9 Comments

If you have a gamer on your holiday shopping list this year, there are some fantastic games that have recently come out that we think they will really like.

LEGO fan? Who isn’t? No matter what age, in this house, everyone likes LEGO. Combine it with video games, then mix in the DC Universe, and you have the recipe for a win right there.

“LEGO DC Super-Villains” has just been released, and let’s gamers play as villains for the first time ever. In collaboration with DC Comics and joined up with DC Super-Villains including The Joker, Harley Quinn, Lex Luthor, Deathstroke, Killer Frost, Sinestro, and more from the Legion of Doom, players set out to create chaos and strike out against good.

Following the trio of “LEGO Batman” , it is a similar style action-adventure game featuring a features a two-player cooperative multiplayer mode. It is available for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

LEGO video games

For another LEGO game, check out “LEGO The Incredibles”.  Coming out in time to join the new Incredibles movie, this fun-filled game features all your favorite characters getting themselves into and out of trouble. Take control of your favorite Incredible and act out sections from the movie, recreate favorite scenes and home and family life. Make sure you battle and defeat all the bad guys and team up with other members of the family while you save the world, LEGO style.  Available for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.

lego game

Can’t get enough LEGO?  We were really looking forward to the “LEGO Harry Potter: Collection” game, and cannot get enough of it. The LEGO Harry Potter games were the first ones that created a huge hub to interact between missions or chapters. There are many secrets to discover in Hogwarts and it’s grounds. You can play as many different characters once you unlock them, and you will need to do so in order to progress to different areas. This compilation brings LEGO Harry Potter: Years 1-4 and LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 to the Nintendo Switch and Xbox One with both top-selling videogames remastered into one.  This game will cast it’s spell on everyone, young and young at heart alike.  Available now Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.

best video games

“Scribblenauts Mega Pack” is a  new two-game collection which features entire versions of both “Scribblenauts Unlimited” and “Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure”. You also get special bonus content for both games. “Scribblenauts Unlimited” follows the storyline of trying to save your sister, who is trapped. You have to solve puzzles to save her. Each gamer can create and summon anything they can imagine, from characters like Mario to a puppy to a rainbow to whatever else. Your creations then run about in your world. You can share creations with other players, as well, by putting them in a “hub” or shop. This is a 1 player game.

Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure lets your imagination run wild(er) by combining the Scribblenauts world with thousands of DC characters and objects. Available now on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.

yo kai video game

My child is obsessed with Yo-Kai, and I’m guessing he’s not alone. The latest Yo-Kai games, “YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: Red Cat Corps” and “YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: White Dog Squad“, let players team up with up to three other friends either at home or online (parents, be on your toes as to whom your child “friends” online) to fight the “Big Bosses”. Develop and use skills and special “Soultimate Moves” and befriend more then 400 Yo-Kai on your journey. These games are different from previous Yo-Kai games in that instead of playing turn-based battles, the “Yo-Kai Watch Blasters” games have gamers play in fast paced, real time battles and missions with action-RPG throughout. During these battles, you directly control your Yo–kai as you strategize with different skills and equipment to defeat bosses.

YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: Red Cat Corps and YO–KAI WATCH BLASTERS: White Dog Squad are available for the Nintendo 3DS family of systems for $39.99 each.

harry potter video game

Can’t think of any game that the recipient may not have? Give them a game-related item instead. Find the perfect present for the gamer in your life among these unique graphic tees designed by in-house and independent artists. You can choose from many game-related prints, pop culture-inspired designs, and Japanese animation graphics, among many others.

Filed Under: entertainment, gaming, Holiday Gift Guide, technology Tagged With: , , , , ,

How To Make Your Winter Wear Look Chic

November 30, 2018 by 1 Comment

Here in the UK, we are getting ready to brace ourselves for the much colder weather that is fast approaching. December is almost here and with it the long, dark days and freezing cold temperatures. However, as you wrap up warm this winter, this does not mean that you will also have to compromise on your style and there are lots of ways in which you can still look chic over the winter season. Here, we are taking you through our top tips as to how you can make your winter wear look chic this year and into the next.  

 

Play With Proportions

The winter season is the perfect time to play around with your proportions. For example, why not layer a gilet over an oversized sweater? You can then pair this up with some fabulous high waisted trousers and a big roomy coat. These roomy coats are very on trend right now and we would recommend going for a fun teddy bear coat as this is the perfect coat to keep you warm this winter whilst also looking chic.

 

Include Colour

Winter can be an extremely dreary month and we tend to reflect this in our clothing with darker colours. However, bold and bright colours are not just simply reserved for the summer months as adding a bold colour in the winter can really add a touch of warmth, whilst looking stylish. Go bolder than you would normally dare to and pair up some thick and cosy gloves with a bright fleece or coat.

 

Go For Volume

Looking to get the va va voom effect this winter season? Then these are some fantastic top tips that you need to follow. We would recommend pairing an oversized sweater with a voluminous puffer coat to really make a statement. Ditch your trousers with this look and instead opt for some black tights and a pair of cool statement boots to really finish off your outfit.

 

Invest In Boots

You will be spending almost every day of winter in boots and so it is important that you invest in a chic and stylish pair. Biker ankle boots are a staple and the ankle boots found here at Dune London are a great collection to browse through if you want to stay on trend. There are lots of amazing designs for you to choose from on Dune, so no matter whether you want a plain pair of black heeled ankle boots or something a little more edgy and cool with buckles and diamantes, you can find what you need. These ankle boots can then be teamed up with everything from jeans and jumper to your favourite winter dress.

 

Layer Up

Winter is the perfect season to layer up as much clothing as you possibly can, so really commit to this look and load everything on. Pop on your sweater, pop a fleecy vest over top, and then finish off with a big coat. You can then throw on a pair of leggings, some chunky socks and combat boots. Gloves and a hat will finish off your outfit and keep it looking chic.

 

Mix And Match Textures

Over the upcoming winter months, we would recommend elevating your cold weather look with a pair of chic leather leggings. Leather leggings are fantastic as not only are they incredibly stylish and look amazing, they also keep you warm when the temperature drops. Mix up your textures and team up your leather leggings with a cable knit jumper to create an edgy but cool look.

 

Winter is almost here, so if your closet is not yet ready for the fast-approaching cold weather, now is the time to invest! Fill your closet with these fun fashion trends that are sure to help you stay looking chic, but warm over winter.

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How to Make Your Trip to Australia a Real Adventure

November 30, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Australia is big, beautiful, exciting and the perfect place for a real dose of adventure. With 10,685 beaches and 10 deserts, the land down under is the perfect destination for all sorts of fun and adventurous outdoor activities. The main difficulty is narrowing down your list of things to do, because when it comes to Australia, there’s no shortage of activities in which to partake for both visitors and those coming to start a new life.

Its rugged coastlines, laid-back people and striking flora and fauna all serve to make this fascinating country so appealing. In Australia, you can skydive, swim with sharks and scuba dive some of the most stunning reefs in the world. The weather is also very encouraging for outdoor activities, with plenty to do for adults and children alike.

Skydive at Mission Beach

Looking for a perfect adventure? What better way to get your adrenaline pumping than to skydive above the beautiful sea around Mission Beach? This is arguably one of the most daring and memorable things you can do in Australia. Picture being strapped to the back of a professional skydive instructor and taking photos from the GoPro in midair. The excitement is indescribable, even after the second and third times. Are you considering making an Ausmove? If so, this should be near the top of your budget list of things to do within the first three months of your arrival.

Camping

Camping is the ideal family outdoor activity; as this obviously isn’t as strenuous as skydiving, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and still offers a significant sense of adventure. Furthermore, camping in Australia offers a unique dimension when compared to elsewhere. For instance, camping on Cockatoo Island around Sydney Harbour allows you to hike and check out the remains of the convict’s cells from way back when.

Kayak Katherine Gorge

While some people might describe watching sunset over dinner as an adventurous activity, Katherine Gorge allows you to do much more in a single outdoor trip. Kayaking or taking a canoe trip is a sure way to experience the true beauty of the Gorge. You can hire kayaks and canoes for a couple of hours or even a full day whilst exploring the entire gorge. In fact, you can rent for up to two days if you wish; this will allow you to watch both sunset and sunrise, whilst enjoying the tranquility from your kayak.

Drive the Great Ocean Road

This is a beautifully laid tarmac that stretches over a distance of 151 miles. It is arguably the most picturesque drive in the world – and definitely the best in Australia.  You can hire a car in Melbourne and let yourself loose to enjoy the breathtaking sights, like the incredible rock formation of the Twelve Apostles. There’s also the Angelsea Golf Course, surf spots at Torquay, many kangaroos, and much more.  All these spectacular sights await you on your trip along the Great Ocean Road.

Crocodile Cruise at Port Douglas

This could be the most thrilling adventure you’ll experience in Australia. Starting from Port Douglas, you can take a crocodile cruise along the Daintree River, watching these fearsome, humongous creatures brooding along the river banks and basking in the sunshine. However, the main treat is when guides throw meat in their direction to entice them out of the water. You’ll then watch the crocs in all their glory, jumping out of the the water to clasp their jaws around the food.

Surfing

Even if you’ve had your fair share of surfing during your time in the US, surfing in Australia is a whole new experience. Here, you’ll be shown the different surfing etiquettes, techniques and also get to learn about the various surf boards that are popularly used. After your first couple of efforts, you’ll be shown pictures of you surfing to demonstrate how you can improve next time around. The experience is both exciting and educative at the same time. More importantly, surfing in Australia is competitive, so you’ll get to learn from the best of the best.

Find the Pinnacle Desert

155 miles north of Perth is The Pinnacle Desert, which is home of hundreds of ancient limestone pillars that resemble tombs. It is a mysterious setting and part of the Nambung National Park, bordering the village of Cervantes in Western Australia.

It’s said that the limestones were formed over 30,000 years ago after the Indian Ocean coastal waves eroded the surrounding area, thereby exposing what is now The Pinnacle Desert. The impressive landscape is excellent for taking pictures and spending quality time with family.

Conclusion

Australia has something remarkable for everyone, and if you love adventure, then your prospective move to this country will prove to be a great decision.

Filed Under: traveling Tagged With: ,

Choosing the right mattress for your body

November 30, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Most people think that buying a mattress is a simple thing: you got to a shop or an online store, browse a bit, try a few of them and buy the one that suits you the most or the one that has the best mattress reviews. Unfortunately, things are a bit more complicated than that.

The mattress is the pillar of your health. Not only do they provide a support to your back but they also ensure you’re well rested. Proper rest is crucial for all your daily activities; if you cannot sleep well, it will affect your productivity also increasing stress level and vitality of your body.

For all these reasons, it is very important to learn more about mattresses prior to purchasing one.

In this short article, I will review the most common product types, their size as well as their firmness. To top it all off, I will provide some good reviews that will help you make the right purchase.

The most common mattress types

There are many types of mattresses and sometimes, it’s really hard to keep a track of them all. Each day new technologies are pushing this industry forward and it shows in the number of products available on the market.

Nevertheless, there are some of the more popular and less popular options. Here are some of the best mattress types you can buy.

Open spring mattress

This product is also known as an open coil mattress. This mattress type is specific as it has one wire that stretches throughout the item. Because of that, it can be really problematic for couples as every movement is felt in the other parts of the mattress.

Although this product provides less support compared to some new models, it is very inexpensive.

Pocket spring mattress

This product type is similar to previous in a sense that it relies on springs. However, it is much different in terms of performance.

First and foremost, pocket springs mattresses provide much more support and they come in various firmness. At the same time, they breathe well and don’t heat up as much as some other mattress types.

Unlike open spring mattress, this product relies on more springs stored within pockets. Because of that, there is much fewer vibrations and transfer of movement.

Memory foam mattress

As the name implies, this product uses a special material known as memory foam.

The greatest thing about it is the fact that it provides lots of support as it adapts to your body features. At the same time, these products are usually great for people suffering from allergies. But keep in mind that it isn’t for everyone; sleeping on a memory foam may feel as if you’re sinking and the material also heats up quickly.

Nevertheless, if you have a bad back, this is probably the best option you have at your disposal.

Latex mattress

Latex as a material is made from various substances. These products are very strong and can last for a long time. At the same time, they are great for people suffering from allergies.

Its biggest flaw is its stiffness as well as weight. Keep in mind that lumps may start appearing after a while on this mattress.

Common mattress sizes

Like with most products, mattress sizes depend on a country in which you’re living.

If we’re talking about Europe, this is how mattress sizes are categorized:

Small single: 75cm x 190cm

Single: 90cm x 190cm

Small double: 120cm x 190cm

Double: 135cm x 190cm

Kingsize: 150cm x 200cm

Super kingsize: 180cm x 200cm

Firmness

Firmness is a big factor that needs to be considered when buying a product. It depends on your sleeping position as well as body features.

Here are the 4 common firmness types:

Soft – Ideal for people sleeping on their side

Medium soft – Ideal for people who change positions

Medium firm – Ideal for people sleeping on their back

Firm – Ideal for people sleeping on their stomach

With this information, you will be able to find just the right mattress.

If this doesn’t help, you can always check one of the numerous online reviews that will not only give you more information about mattress types, sizes, and firmness but can also give you more info on specific products and companies.

Filed Under: health, home Tagged With:

Euro Yuletide — 10 Christmas travel tips

November 28, 2018 by Leave a Comment

For many Americans, the focus of Christmas is family — so provided we’re safe, sound and together, let the holiday celebrations begin.

But if you’re ticking items off your family travel bucket list, there’s a certain je ne sais quoi about spending the festive season in Europe.

Whether it’s the rustic old-world architecture, traditional Christmas markets, charming locals or fabulous food and drink, a trip to a European winter wonderland has all the fantasy elements of a scene suspended in a snow globe.  

If you’re planning to shake things up for real this Christmas with a continental break and need practical pre-flight advice, dream destination suggestions and clothing choices, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are ten Christmas travel tips for a Euro Yuletide.

 

  • UK border tips

 

If you’re headed for Britain, long passport control queues at airports like Heathrow and Gatwick might make the entire family antsy. But read these tips to beat border delays from the UK government to sail through swiftly.

 

  • Lounge pass

 

Chilling out in a luxe airport lounge prior to boarding your flight beats the busy regular terminal hands down — grab a Priority Pass membership online for access to over 1,000 worldwide lounge locations.

 

  • PJs

 

Struggling to convince your kids that a break to Bavaria or Brussels will be brilliant? Grab some sets of family matching pajamas from LazyOne.com — they’ll fast-track family festive bonding.

 

  • Pre-flight treat

 

Moms and dads yearning for a cheap culinary treat to get themselves in the mood for a magnificent European break should invest in a chai eggnog latte from Starbucks – it’s Christmas in a cup.

 

  • Parking

 

Travel to the airport in your family vehicle for a friction-free pre-flight experience that’s more relaxing than public transport — find parking at any US airport on Looking4.com to fly with peace of mind.

 

  • Boots

 

Wellington boots have been a mainstay of British fashion for generations and the brand that’s de rigueur these days is Hunter — a stylish pair will protect your feet wherever you’re trekking in Europe.

 

  • Skiing

 

If finding fresh powder on foreign slopes is your idea of family fun, there are few better Euro destinations than Switzerland — Ski Armadillo offer cool catered chalet experiences in the Verbier resort.

 

  • Northern Lights

 

Seeing the Aurora Borealis first hand is a spectacular festive family treat and if you view these legendary Northern Lights from Lapland, the rumor is that your kids can visit the real Santa Claus too. Check out Nordic Visitor tours online for a Noel you’ll never forget.

 

  • Hogmanay

 

‘What’s Hogmanay?’ we hear you say — it’s Scotland’s version of New Year and no one on Earth parties like the natives of this beautiful land. Book a package for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party and get ready to rock.

 

  • Madeira

 

For a New Year trip that’s slightly more sedate than Scotland but equally spectacular, head to the marvelous Portuguese island of Madeira. You’ll enjoy terrific torch-lit meals in fabulous Funchal and witness one of the world’s biggest firework displays when the clock strikes midnight.

That’s our list! Tell us about your favorite festive Euro destination in the comments section.

Filed Under: holidays Tagged With: , ,

Things To Know When You Start Surfing

November 26, 2018 by Leave a Comment

surfing lessons

Are you an adventurous person looking for the best and the most entertaining fun activities to do on your next trip? Well, if that is the case then you need to stick with us till the end of this article because today we are going talk about one of the best and the most adventurous activity that will help you make a lot of memories and it will definitely make your trip fun. Hereby that activity we are talking about none other than surfing.

 

Yes, you read it right and if you aren’t scared of water then just think about surfing for a moment, playing with the waves of the ocean and moving along the wind, surfing your heart out. Wouldn’t it be just amazing? Well, if you do find surfing to be a fun activity and if you’ve planned to go surf this week on your trip then here are a few things you need to know in order to get the best out of your surfing experience.

 

1- Get a quality board

First of all, you need to focus on buying the best possible surfboard product for yourself. Don’t worry, we aren’t asking you to spend thousands of dollars on a surfboard, it’s just that you need to be careful while buying one. You cannot just buy any board you see, in fact, you need to focus a lot on the quality of board you are buying because you don’t want to see it broken halfway while you are surfing. The most important thing is to focus on the material of the board and how strong it is. After you are confirming that the board is strong, you can then go for the looks etc.

 

2- The right time

You should surf in the morning or when the Sun is about to set because you clearly don’t want sunburn on your body. Also, you wouldn’t like the idea of the Sun rays going directly into your eyes while you are surfing and playing with the waves because that can sometimes even lead to accidents. You just need to be more focused on the waves and your body needs to be in your control so that nothing goes wrong. So, we’d suggest you to surf in the morning or in the afternoon so that you can get the best out of it.

 

3- Don’t wait  for the perfect wave

One of the biggest mistake people often make is that they sit and wait for the perfect wave to come. Know that surfing is all about catching as many waves as you can and whether it’s a small wave or a big one, you just need to continue surfing and playing with all the waves you can. Sitting there and waiting for the best wave will be just a waste of time for you.

 

4- Don’t take surfing too seriously

We’ve seen a lot of people taking surfing too seriously and punching their boards in frustration. Know that it’s not a competition and you just want to surf for fun. So, don’t take it too seriously and especially we’d suggest you to go out and surf when you are in a good mood because that’s what will make you enjoy the experience more.

 

Conclusion

These are some of the things that the first time surfers need to know in order to enjoy their surfing experience. We assure you that if you follow these tips, you will then be able to get the best out of your trip and you won’t be disappointed with anything at all about surfing.

 

Filed Under: fitness, health Tagged With: , ,

4 Reasons All Families Should Invest in Home Maintenance Plans

November 26, 2018 by 1 Comment

Your household has many appliances and other amenities that are important to your day-to-day life. Unfortunately, these useful household features can and do break. Repairs can be inconvenient and expensive. A home maintenance plan just might be the solution to your household repair problems.

 

General Home Warranty

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Image via Flickr by okchomeseller

 

Home warranties are most often offered during the sale of a house. They are meant to serve as an incentive to attract more buyers at higher offer prices. Home warranties are useful not only for new home buyers but also for existing homeowners. Although home warranty inclusions will vary among different policies, some cover all basic household appliances, such as washer, dryer, dishwasher, and oven. There are also home warranties that cover specific systems, such as plumbing and electrical systems.

 

If you think a home warranty might be right for your household, make sure you consider all your options. Evaluate the age of your appliances versus the cost of the warranty. Consider the process of claiming a repair. Some warranty companies require that you pay out of pocket and then reimburse you, while others cover the repair up front.

 

HVAC Maintenance Plan

Your HVAC system is one of the most important elements of your household. It keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In fact, a broken HVAC system during an extremely cold winter is not only uncomfortable but can also be dangerous.

 

An HVAC home maintenance plan can protect you with 24/7 emergency repair services, HVAC maintenance, and routine filter replacement. These preventative maintenance services can help maintain the value of your HVAC system while also reducing the likeliness of an untimely broken HVAC unit.

 

Pool Maintenance

Having a pool in your backyard can be a lot of fun. It can also be a lot of work as you have to regularly clean and filter the pool water. Making mistakes during cleaning can get costly and take away from your pool time.

 

Signing up for a pool maintenance plan can take the work out of an activity that should be entertaining. Not only will it reduce the chances of needing an expensive repair, but it will also give you more time to actually enjoy the pool.

 

Roof Warranty

Roof warranties are often given after the full replacement of a roof. Sometimes they are transferrable with the sale of a house. Replacing a roof is one of the most expensive repairs you will make in your house. A roof warranty backs the durability of your new roof.

 

As always, it’s important to evaluate the specific conditions of your roof warranty. Understand the replacement process and what type of damage the warranty covers. For example, some roof warranties don’t cover storm damage. Others may not cover tree or branch damage if the surrounding landscape is not properly maintained.

 

Household warranties can save you a lot of money over time. Purchasing a warranty will give you the peace of mind that comes with being protected from untimely and costly repairs.

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