Archive for 2013

 

Fix Water Damaged Carpet

Friday, April 12th, 2013

Fix Water Damaged Carpet - Carpet Cleaners

Carpeting can really warm up your home.  It adds a sense of comfort and livability to any room.  Carpets are a tad harder to clean because you can’t just wipe up spills like you would a hardwood floor.  But many people still prefer carpeting because it is softer feels cozier.  When you have flooding or a spill on your carpet, you need to act immediately because otherwise you may have to replace the entire carpet. Here are some tips to fix water damaged carpet.

How to Fix Water Damaged Carpet

1. You need to act immediately as soon as you realize that there is water on your carpets.  If you don’t do something within one to two days of the damage occurring, bacteria and mold can begin to grow in your carpet.

2. Remove all of the furniture from the carpeted room and stop people from walking on it.  This will reduce any chances that the damage will spread.

3. The way to start taking care of the damage is to dehumidify the room.  If the air is dry it will be harder for bacteria to grow.  Open up the doors and windows in the room where the carpet is wet so that the air can circulate.  You may also want to accelerate the process by investing in large fans and dehumidifiers.

4. Once this is done, you should remove the tack strip holding the carpet down.  This will allow you to get to the underlying layers.  Most of the time you will have to get rid of the damaged backing and get a new one.  After the backing is taken out you need to wash the carpet.

5. If you are cleaning the carpet outside you can use a hose.  If the weather doesn’t allow for this or you are doing it inside you will need a water extraction vacuum.  This will absorb the water and hopefully prevent further damage.  This process can take up to half a day if the carpet is very wet.  Once it is completely dry shampoo it to kill any bacteria or fungus.  In the case that the carpet is too damaged or that you let it sit too long you will need to replace the entire thing.

Find A Carpet Cleaner

If you have more questions about fixing a water-damaged carpet, you should try to talk to a professional so that you can get the best help possible.  The easiest, fastest way to get in contact with reliable, local carpet cleaning services is to use TalkLocal. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we will connect you with up to three professionals. Within minutes you will be connected to someone who should be able to help you out, for free!

Benefits Of LED Headlights

Friday, April 12th, 2013

Benefits Of LED Headlights - Auto Repair

LED lights are becoming more and more popular in key chains, flash lights and even around the house. However, those are not the only uses. The benefits of LED headlights are plentiful; you may find that these benefits meet your needs and make your vehicle’s headlights more efficient.

Some of the various benefits of LED headlights include:

Cooler: Often, other light bulbs waste energy through heat. LED light bulbs are much cooler, reducing energy waste by output of heat.

Durable: LED lights don’t contain glass, which makes breaking them much more difficult than with conventional headlights.

Brighter: LED headlights are non-glare lights and typically illuminate a much larger area than other headlights. When driving in the dark or in inclement weather, having more light can mean you stay safer.

Longer lasting: The lifespan of an LED light bulb is 35,000 to 50,000 hours, which is significantly longer than other bulbs. This is measured by how long it takes for the bulb’s light to fall below about 70 percent capacity. Since LED light bulbs just fade slowly over time instead of relying on a breakable filament, they’re much more reliable.

Smaller: LED lights are more compact than conventional bulbs, making it easier for them to be arranged in a shape that naturally compliments the headlight.

Maintainable: These lights are also significantly easier to maintain than conventional bulbs and cost less to replace. The main reason why they’re so easy to maintain is that they rarely ever burn out. They typically don’t need to be replaced at all unless they’re broken in an accident.

Need Help With LED Headlights?

LED lights far surpass their conventional and fluorescent counterparts. The benefits of LED lights allow your vehicle to be more efficient, reliable, and ultimately, a lot safer. If you have questions about LED headlights or need to install new headlights in your vehicle, TalkLocal can connect you with the professionals in your area who can help you.

Custom Built Computer Not Turning On

Friday, April 12th, 2013

Custom Built Computer Not Turning On - Computer Repair

Is your custom built computer not turning on? Building a customized computer can be very rewarding, but it also means there is plenty of room for mistakes. If your custom built computer has difficulty turning on it can mean a variety of different problems. Consider each of these issues to troubleshoot your custom-built computer’s start-up issues.

Faulty Power Supply

Your PC may have a broken power supply or a power supply with inappropriate wattage. You can use a website like eXtreme Power Supply Calculator to determine the necessary PCU wattage. Test your power supply by pressing the power button on your PC. If the green light and fan turn on, then your power supply is working. Evaluate other computer parts to find your problem.

Motherboard, PCU, and RAM

Assuming the power supply works, a PC should boot with a sufficient motherboard, PCU, and RAM. Try replacing each part to determine the source of the problem.

Further Assistance

If you need additional help building your customized computer, you can find a computer repair professional in minutes with TalkLocal! We will connect you with up to three, local, high-quality professionals who are available to help you when you need them.

Install Window Well Covers

Friday, April 12th, 2013

Install Window Well Covers - Landscapers

Window well covers come in different types and designs, and can serve several purposes, according to one’s preferences or desires. One may want to prevent break-ins, to protect a basement window from rain, flying debris or baseballs, or maybe even to serve protection from a child falling into the window well accidentally.

Window Well Cover Types

There are two main window well cover types, based on your basement windows’ design and placement. You might need a bubble window well cover for windows that protrude up above ground level, or a flat cover for basement windows that do not extend higher than the well. They can be circular or rectangular, plastic or aluminum, and can be of varying colors. If you would like to install window well covers yourself, here are some guidance tips for the process.

How to Install Window Well Covers

1. Purchase the window well cover of the correct shape and material. It should be accompanied by mounting hardware, such as clips, nuts, bolts, and washers.

2. Simply place the window well cover in the correct position above the well and in line with the steel, brick or aluminum frame that encompasses the well. Take the provided clips and set them down, evenly placed throughout the perimeter of the cover & over the well rim. Mark these positions and then remove the cover.

3. For this next step you will need a power drill before being able to secure the clips in place. Over the markings, drill a hole about 3/16 inches thick.  Assemble the cover by using the bolts and cap nuts, with the washers between them. The correct order is to put the bolt through the clip and washer, and to have the cap nut secured on top.

Need Professional Help?

If you are having trouble and would like some professional help, try using TalkLocal to locate a professional who can assist you. TalkLocal is a free service that will connect you with top-quality, reputable landscapers in your neighborhood, within minutes. Simply enter in your problem, location, and availability, and TalkLocal will contact multiple companies, who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.

Best Car Wax Polish

Friday, April 12th, 2013

Best Car Wax Polish - Car Wash

People strive to get their car looking as nice, new, and shiny as possible.  The way to achieve this is to wash, wax, and polish your car.  It will give your car a fresh-off-the-factory-floor look.  Doing so will get rid of any minor scratches and scuffs and will really add a sparkle to your vehicle.  You should be very careful when you do this because there is a lot most people don’t know about polishing and waxing. We have some tips to help you choose the best car wax polish.

Best Car Wax Polish

The number one thing to remember is that polishing your car and waxing are not the same at all.  They both are important for taking care of the paint job on your vehicle.  Remember to wash your car before polishing or waxing it.

You can begin to polish your car after you wash it.  The polishing actually prepares your car to be waxed.  When you polish, you are actually buffing out the finish.  This will smooth the body and remove any cracks caused by weather or general use.  After you finish polishing you can begin to wax.  Waxing applies on a coat of protection to save all of the work you’ve done.   Do not wax before polishing, because this will trap dirt and imperfections in.

Car polishes will come in two different forms.  You can get it in liquids and solids.  Although solid car polishes are harder to apply than liquid polishes they is better for certain reasons.  A solid car polish will give more shine and is better for old cars with abused paint jobs.  Sold polish requires more expertise to put on but may be worth the hassle.  Liquid polishes have synthetic polymers and are easier to apply.  Some liquid polishes will cling better to the paint than the solid polishes.

Further Assistance

If you have more questions about different car waxes and polishes you should try to talk to a professional so that you can get the best help possible.  The easiest, fastest way to get in contact with reliable local car washing services is to use TalkLocal. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we will connect you with up to three professionals ready to help, in just minutes.

How To Remove Paint From Metal

Thursday, April 11th, 2013

How To Remove Paint From Metal - Handyman

From children’s bicycles to iron handrails, home and business owners often find themselves wondering how to remove paint from metal in order to repaint or create a new look for an old piece. The process is fairly simple, though more ornate pieces may require more hand working than a flat piece. This can easily be a do-it-yourself project, or else any handyman would likely be able to take care of it quickly.

You Will Need:

– Damp or tacky cloth

– Respirator

– Medium grit metal sandpaper

– Fine grit metal sandpaper

– Chemical paint stripper

– Paint brush

– Hose/water

– Optional: Sandblaster

How To Remove Paint From Metal

1. Be sure to wear a respirator to avoid inhaling dangerous metal flakes.

2. Wipe down the piece and remove dirt or rust flakes with a damp or tacky cloth.

3. Use medium grit metal sandpaper to remove any stubborn areas of rust, then use the fine grit to create a smooth finish.

4. Apply the paint stripper with a paint brush accordingly, per the directions on the can. Hose off to remove the chemical when finished.

5. If only a few spots remain, the sandpaper may be used to remove them.

6. Sandblasters are handy for larger and more stubborn projects. They can be rented by the day or purchased at a home improvement store.

7. Wipe down and clean the piece once all paint is removed.

Finding Reliable Help

If this process seems too complicated or time-consuming for you, one of the many benefits of a handyman is that they know how to efficiently work these kinds of projects. They know how to remove paint from metal quickly and safely.

If you are not sure how to get in touch with a qualified professional near you, check out TalkLocal. We connect you with local professionals quickly. You should be speaking to a handyman near you within minutes. The best part is our service is free! If your project has become too overwhelming, find a local handyman now.

Symptoms Of Kidney Failure In Cats

Thursday, April 11th, 2013

Symptoms Of Kidney Failure In Cats - Veterinarians

Kidney failure, or renal failure, is often considered a leading cause of death in cats. If your cat is showing signs or symptoms of this dangerous condition, it is imperative to get him or her checked out by a veterinarian immediately, as often times, 70% of the kidney has already failed by the time symptoms begin to surface. If your pet is unwell, but you are unsure of whether or not it is kidney failure, here are some symptoms of kidney failure in cats to be aware of.

Symptoms of Kidney Failure In Cats

– Increase in consumption of water and increase in urination: Since kidney failure is associated with the organ’s inability to process and remove waste products that are usually exported through urine, the damaged kidneys are no longer able to concentrate water efficiently, leading to the increased urination. This urine is often very diluted (not concentrated with waste products normally present).

– Sudden weight loss

– Weakness or lethargy

– Vomiting or diarrhea

– Sudden depression

– Loss of coordination

Foul-smelling drool

How Does A Cat’s Kidney Fail?

Your cat may have acute kidney failure, or chronic kidney failure. Though they differ in their associated risks and dangers, the symptoms are almost always similar. There are several potential causes of kidney failure in cats, including ingestion of a poisonous substance, such as an anti-freeze liquid or inedible plant; infection (e.g. urinary tract infection); cancer; severe dehydration; abnormal side effects as a result of a vaccination or medication; heart failure; trauma or injury to the abdomen; or simply old age.

Take Your Cat to A Veterinarian

If you remain unsure of your cat’s symptoms or condition, it is best to contact a veterinarian for assistance immediately. Try using TalkLocal to locate one near you. TalkLocal is a free service that will connect you with top-quality, reputable veterinarians in your neighborhood, within minutes. Just enter in your cat’s symptoms, your location and availability, and TalkLocal will work quickly to contact multiple vets in your area, who will then call YOU directly, ready to help.

How to Rent A Party Bus

Thursday, April 11th, 2013

How to Rent A Party Bus - Bus Rental

A party bus can be rented for a wide variety of reasons.  You could want one for prom, for a birthday party, for a weekend extravaganza, or any other life celebration.  If you want to know how to rent a party bus, it is very similar to renting a limo or a car, but keep reading to find out more!

How to Rent A Party Bus

1. The first thing you will need to do is determine the details for the party you are planning.  You will need to know the head count for the event; the number of people attending will affect how large of a vehicle you will need.  You also need to know the destinations for your event; the pickup and drop-off location can greatly affect the cost because it will increase with larger differences.  Consider if you want the party bus for one trip or for the whole night to take you to other places and back home again.

2. The budget you have for your party will also impact your plan to rent a party bus.  You can get different levels of service from your party bus based on the amount of money you are wiling to spend.

3. Another thing to consider is the date for your event because certain times, such as prom season, are busy times for limo and bus rental companies.  You should try to book as soon as you know you need a bus because otherwise you may not get one.

4. Now that you have the nitty-gritty details worked out, you can start to research various party bus companies in the area.  Note down all price differences, availability, and sizes.  You can choose between having a simple refurbished school bus or a window-tinted, sleek vehicle that has dancing room and plush seating.  You can also research other amenities that may be offered with your rental.

Let Us Find the Professionals!

If you want to rent a party bus, but don’t know where to start looking, try TalkLocal. We will connect you with up to three bus rental companies in your area in just minutes. Our service is fast, free, and finds you the right professionals when you need them!

Cannot Find the Router IP Address

Thursday, April 11th, 2013

Cannot Find the Router IP Address - Computer Repair

What is an IP Address?

An IP address is very much like the street address of a house. IP addresses consist of four numbers separated by dots that come together to form a unique address for each machine and device belonging to an internet network. Consider the IP address to be like a street number, street name, city, and zip code.

Routers and also have IP addresses, which may be important to know if you are setting up a new wireless router. If you cannot find the router IP address, there are multiple ways to find it.

Finding the Router’s IP through Windows Functions

Provided that your computer is connected to the internet through your router, your router’s IP address is already registered in your computer. You can find out your router’s IP address by accessing the Run dialogue box inside your computer.

Simply follow these steps:

1. Click the “Start” button on your taskbar.

2. Type “Run” in the search box and open the Run program.

3. Inside the “Run” box, type “cmd”.

4. This is the windows command screen, also known as the “DOS window”.

5. Type “ipconfig”. The screen will now display information about your current network. The router’s IP address is found under the section labeled as the “Default Gateway”.

Finding the Router’s IP through External Functions

You can also simply use the internet to access a website that will run an IP trace on your connection and display the results to you.

Additional Help

If you need additional help regarding this matter, TalkLocal can help you find up to three computer repair professionals in your area. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and your availability, and we’ll connect you with the right professional in just minutes, for free!

Why Procrastinate When You Can Accomplish?

Thursday, April 11th, 2013

Written by Dallea Caldwell

Why Procrastinate When You Can Accomplish? - Seva Call

Written by Dallea Caldwell

Procrastinating by reading about procrastinating — how meta.

The biggest obstacle twiddling its thumbs between you and your goals is procrastination: your innocuous tendency to go on dilly-dallying when you should be diem carpe-ing.

We Procrastinate for Lots of Reasons:

– To put off unpleasant experiences in favor of immediate gratification.

– Because we have a natural bias towards underestimating the value of longer-term consequences/rewards no matter their actual importance.

– A lifetime of experience has reinforced indulging for the moment and narrowly dodging major consequences by rushing to action at the last minute.

Of course, even if you ace every exam with last-minute all-nighters, procrastination still has its consequences. 20% of people consider themselves chronic procrastinators, a group which sees higher rates of:

          – Insomnia

          – Compromised immunities

          – Strained relationships with those that rely on them personally/professionally/academically

Why Procrastinate When You Can Accomplish?

Fortunately, behavioral scientists have thought of a few nifty tricks for hitching your wagon back on track so that you can pull out of Procrastination Station.

          1. Start a to-do list.

          2. Break big tasks into smaller actionable items.

          3. Prioritize with the least pleasant or more daunting tasks first.

          4. Create a reward system for accomplishing smaller tasks.

One great strategy is called the Pomordoro Technique: for every 25 minutes of uninterrupted effort, reward yourself with a snack and a 5 minute break. This satisfies your need for immediate gratification while keeping you focused on achieving your goals.

And remember, if you were studiously searching the web for a service provider when aimless web surfing captured your attention and held you hostage for hours; go to www.talklocal.com, enter your to-do list, and procrastinate all you want for the next 90 secs or so. Before you know it, you will have talked to a local professional who will get the job done. A great time to start that reward system!