Tuesday, November 22, 2011

How to Prepare a Car For Storage

When we think of renting a storage unit, most likely we are more concerned with smaller objects like clothing and boxes of books, Christmas decorations, and other items we don't use on a regular basis. We may also be more inclined to obtain storage for furniture as we transition to a new home. Some may not realize that one can also stow away a vehicle for an indeterminate amount of time. Depending on the storage facility you use, you can keep your car or motorcycle safe while you are not using it.

This is especially handy for those in the military who are stationed overseas, or for people taking temporary work where a car is not needed. If you need to put your car storage while you are away, it's important to make sure the automobile is prepared before you leave it with the facility. Here are a few things to remember as you get your car ready.

1) Make sure all valuables are removed. Don't risk leaving something like all your CDs or a removable MP3 player in your car. Even though you're stowing the car, you never know what will happen while you're away. Clean out the car as much as possible before leaving.

2) Wash the car inside and out. Give your auto one last, good wash and wax, and use cleaners to treat the seats, floors, and dash. Make sure the interior is dry before closing the windows - you may wish to keep a box of baking soda in the front for freshness. Make sure the windows and sunroof (where applicable) are closed.

3) Change the oil and fill the tank. Your first inclination may be to deliver the car with as little gas as possible, since you won't be using it. Actually, when an empty tank sits for a long time, moisture can accumulate and eventually cause problems. It's a good idea to properly lube and fuel your car - it keeps it in good working order and it's ready to drive away when you come home.

4) Use a car cover. For added exterior protecting, a cover that fits the car well can help preserve the shine.

Lastly, choose a storage rental facility that offers high security and, where applicable, indoor storage for cars. If you live in an area prone to bad winter weather, you'll want to keep your car safe from the elements so it's in good driving condition when you come home.


Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk storage rentals and Chesapeake storage rentals.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Choosing the Best Air Conditioning System For Your New Home

When you are home, your comfort is probably one of your primary concerns. Nobody wants to feel forced to leave their house because they are unable to find peace. Every day after work, you should be able to come home to enjoy your family, kick back and watch television, or do anything you wish. Clean air is an important element to your home comfort, so if you are in the market for a new air conditioning system you want to make sure you have the best.

A quality air conditioning system is an important investment in your home. Whether you plan to stay for years to come, or end up selling after a short time, your AC should perform at optimal levels when you need it. More than likely, the thought of air conditioning will not cross your mind until you need it the most - say, an extremely hot day that leaves you setting up electric fans in every room. If you're feeling the heat, you don't want to rush out and buy the first thing you see thinking you'll get instant relief. You may, but in the long run your purchase may not turn out to be a good one.

As you browse for air conditioning systems, you need to decide first if a central system is best for you, or if you wish to maintain individual units. For apartment living, window units may be your only choice if central AC is not an option. If that's the case, make sure you properly measure the window receiving the unit and look for an energy efficient model. Also consider the size of the room you plan to keep cool. With a smaller room, for example, you probably will not need a huge unit. Consult home improvement sites and magazines for tips if you're unsure.

For a central system that requires a more advanced installation, you may wish to consult with an HVAC contractor for recommendations. A reputable HVAC specialist can assist you not only in getting a quality unit that cools your house, but comes with controls that let you regulate where the air goes. You risk wasting energy and money cooling rooms that are not used often, so you want to be sure your unit offers the flexibility and functionality you need.

Depending on the unit and time you buy it, you may also be eligible for a tax rebate. Speak with your local residential HVAC company for more information.


Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Newport News HVAC services or Hampton HVAC services.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

New Homes - Common Issues During Winter

Whether you have just moved into your house or have lived there for several years, you are bound to eventually face issues in the winter. If you live in a region susceptible to cold weather and snow, you definitely want to stay vigilant and be ready for problems that crop up while you are trying to stay warm. Here are just a few of the more common issues you, as a homeowner, could face in the later months.

Leaky Roof - If you find you are running your heater at a higher level than you should, it could be an indication that your roof has a leak. Roofs are built to ventilate properly so you don't experience too many problems with your HVAC system, but a leaking roof allows heat to escape your home at a faster rate, which in turn causes your heater to work harder. Your energy bills, as a result, rise. Therefore, it's wise to have a roof inspection before the weather gets too bad.

Moisture Problems - Notice any condensation streaking down your windows on the inside? When your windows are cold from the winter weather, the humidity in your home turns into moisture. If left untreated, you could find a growth of mold in your home, which in turns causes health problems for those breathing in the air inside the house. It's important to make sure proper ventilation keeps this from happening.

Freezing Pipes - You turn on the shower or sink and nothing comes out, or if it does the water flow isn't consistent. There could be a problem with pipes freezing in the wintertime, so it is good to take precautions to make sure it doesn't happen when you need hot water the most. You may wish to consult with your plumber for precaution so your water flows uninterrupted during the winter.

Garden Problems - Some plants are capable of surviving harsh weather, but if you want to keep your landscaping up through the colder months you may want to consult with a professional lawn service for advice on properly winterizing your grass and shrubbery.

Home ownership instills pride, and when you take care of your home it will take care of you through the later months when it is cold. Be aware of problems that could arise when it starts to snow or sleet, and you'll be ready to tackle them easily.


Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach roofing and Palatine plumbing services.