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Letters from Santa
It's that time of year again! Christmas is quickly upon us, which means Letters from Santa is back. When my twins were little, I started writing letters to them as Santa a few weeks before the holiday. It was one of their favorite traditions, so I have continued it for my clients. It's always a big hit! Your child can receive a letter from Santa this year if you fill out our form by December 2nd. We'd be honored to bring some joy to their Christmas.
- Karene
DIY Tree Removal
Knowing how to cut down a tree is a useful skill to have, especially if it’s on your home improvement to-do list or if you need firewood. It can, however, be a dangerous task. Taking proper safety precautions and being realistic about the job is important. If the tree is so big that you must use a ladder, this tree is too big for you to safely remove on your own. For large trees, it’s best to hire a certified professional. If the tree on your property is small enough for you to handle alone, here are some tips on how to get the job done safely.
Water around the tree the day before so that the soil is easier to dig.
Evaluate the site and tree. Determine if the tree is dead or alive, and note the direction it may be leaning.
Clear the area, estimate a falling zone and create two escape paths.
Measure the tree trunk. For every inch around, expect to dig six inches deep so that you reach the entire root system of the tree.
Use a chainsaw to create a hinge, notching, and felling cuts.
If the tree is small enough, remove the root ball. If you plan on relocating the tree, keep it intact. If you plan on disposing of the tree, cut it up with a chainsaw.
Always remember to wear goggles, gloves, a mask, and a helmet when removing a tree. If you can, ask someone to be on the lookout for you. This person should stand a few feet behind you to keep an eye out for falling branches and to alert you when the tree is falling. Also, remember: Never look away from a falling tree.
Benefits of a Programed Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is a thermostat that allows you to adjust the heating and cooling equipment in your home based on a preset schedule. The number of homes with programmable thermostats has continued to rise in recent years and for good reason. They have many more benefits than older, traditional models.
Energy and Cost-Efficient
Making the switch will make your home more energy-efficient, in turn making it more cost-efficient. No longer do you have to pay for heating/cooling your home while you are out and about.
HVAC System
Puts less strain on an older HVAC system. Having a programmable thermostat, as well as a new HVAC system, will increase the efficiency and lifespan of your system.
Keeps you Comfortable
You can control the temperature of your home more conveniently. If you invest in a “smart” thermostat, you may be able to program it remotely using Wi-Fi.
Gets Alerts
Some give alerts with information about various parts of your heating and cooling systems that may need servicing, like air filters.
Why Switch to LED Lighting?
More people are making the switch from traditional lighting to LED lightbulbs. Here are a few reasons you should join the movement.
They’re a green solution that helps the environment.
You are helping to reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Due to their high efficiency, these lightbulbs waste up to 5% less energy than other bulbs. LED lightbulbs also contain no mercury or any other hazardous material. Since you’ll have to replace LEDs less often, your household will create less waste.
Because you’ll be saving energy, you’ll also be saving money.
You’ll see a dip in your electric bill when you make the switch. You’ll also have to buy lightbulbs much less often—depending on your daily energy use, LEDs can last for decades.
LEDs last much longer than alternative lightbulbs.
The typical incandescent lightbulb will last for about 1,000 hours. Fluorescent lightbulbs are more efficient, lasting from 7,000 to 25,000 hours, depending on frequent switching. LEDs have both options beat, lasting for up to 60,000 hours.
LEDs provide higher quality lighting.
They will fill your home with enhanced ambient lighting. The light they provide will also be whiter and closer to natural lighting.
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