5 Things to Install in Your Home for Better Living

A home is a sacred place. It’s where we come to relax and unwind after a long day, where we raise our families, and where we make memories that will last a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important to make sure our homes are as comfortable and livable as possible. One of the best ways to do this is to install certain features that can make our lives easier and more enjoyable.

A water filtration system and water softener

How does a water filtration system improve your life? A water filtration system ensures that the water you and your family drink is clean and free of contaminants. This is important for both your health and the longevity of your appliances. Over time, hard water can damage plumbing and appliances, but a water filtration system will remove these minerals from your water before they have a chance to do any damage.

A water softener is another device that can remove minerals from your water, but it does so in a different way. A water softener uses ions to exchange the minerals in your water for sodium ions. This process doesn’t remove the minerals from your water, but it does make them less likely to cause problems with your plumbing or appliances. A professional near you can help you decide if a water filtration system or water softener is right for your home. All you need to do is do a simple online search with words like "water softeners in Calgary," if you live in Calgary, for instance, and you'll get a list of options in your area.

A whole-house humidifier

If you live in a dry climate, or if your home is heated with forced air, a whole-house humidifier is a must-have. Dry air can cause all sorts of problems, from static electricity and dry skin to cracked furniture and increased allergies. A whole-house humidifier will add moisture to the air, making your home more comfortable and preventing all of these problems.

If you have asthma or allergies, a whole-house humidifier can also help. Dry air can aggravate these conditions, but adding moisture to the air will help to ease your symptoms.

A programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is one of the best ways to save money on your energy bills. By programming your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re not home, or to raise it only a few degrees in the winter, you can save a significant amount of money each year.

A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature of your home based on a schedule you create. So, if you know you’re going to be gone from 9am to 5pm every day, you can program your thermostat to lower the temperature during those hours. This way, you’re not paying to heat or cool your home when you’re not even there.

A home automation system

A home automation system can make your life much easier and more convenient. With a home automation system, you can control everything from the lights and temperature to the security system and appliances all from your smartphone or tablet. This means you don’t have to waste time walking around your house to adjust things, and you can even control your home while you’re away.

A home automation system can also help you to save money. For example, if you forget to turn off the lights when you leave the house, you can simply turn them off from your phone. Or, if you want to make sure your kids are doing their homework, you can set a timer for the lights to turn off at a certain time.

A solar-powered motion sensor light

Solar-powered motion sensor lights are a great way to deter burglars and increase the safety of your home. These lights will turn on automatically when they detect motion, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn them on. And, because they’re solar powered, you don’t have to worry about running up your energy bill.

Last but not least, solar-powered motion sensor lights are a great way to save money. Because they’re powered by the sun, you don’t have to worry about paying for electricity. Plus, they’re very easy to install, so you won’t have to pay someone to do it for you.

Installing a few of these features in your home can really improve your quality of life. So, if you’re looking for ways to make your home more comfortable and livable, consider adding some of these things. You and your family will be glad you did. Just remember to do your research before you buy anything, and to hire a professional if you’re not sure how to install it. With a little effort, you can make your home the best it can be.

Guest Contributor: McKenzie Jones

DIY Halloween Decorations

Are you looking for decorations that are cheap and easy to make? You’re on the right page. We love finding ways to DIY decorations and get creative for the spooky season.

There are numerous things you can use to make these DIY tombstones. You can use wood, foam, thick cardboard, anything that would be able to withstand weather. You can fully customize these and use random names or make a theme to the tombstones and make them funny as seen in the picture.

This DIY might be on the more pricey side, but it’s not impossible to DIY. You would need to buy a jack o lantern head, preferably a light one from a craft store. You can build the body of the pumpkin man out of PVC pipes, (which is perfect for us plumbers), and cover the PVC in any type of wrap to get your desired look. This pumpkin man also has sticks for hands, so it’s proof that you don’t have to make it fancy or overcomplicated.

Are you a great painter and are looking for a small project? Painting realistic eyes on the rocks that you put in your garden is a small but super spooky detail to add to your decorations this spooky season.

The perfect decoration to add into your window is a DIY one! You can make a cut out of a spooky character of your choice and make sure the light will hit it and make it stand out in the day and night time!

Another DIY where you probably have to spend some money, but this is a cost effective one! Foam heads and faces are relatively cheap, and cost less than $5 to buy. You can also purchase mesh as pictured if you don’t have any on hand, but you can definitely experiment and get different spooky colored mesh to make it pop more.

Have any mason jars laying around as well as some paint? This is the perfect opportunity to make paint faces on the jars and throw a LED light into the jar and make it look spooky!

Another mason jar spooky project, adding a LED light and mesh on the top will make it look like a spooky lantern!

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to the more popular decorations, this DIY Michael Myers is the perfect cheap alternative. PVC is cheap, and you can make this probably 80% less than the cost of buying a Michael Myers from a store.

Using household appliances are a perfect way to incorporate the DIY aspect of it because you’re saving money on cool decorations!

Choosing the Proper Toilet for your Home in 2022 - Performance, Quality, and Suggestions

A toilet that serves you right is essential in every home. While choosing the proper toilet for your home, you need its style, size, height, and comfort to suit just right. Here are the things to consider when you’re looking for the best toilet for you, your kid, or the elderly at home:

Consider the Flush Type

The flush types dictate your water use and convenience. There are two types of mainstream toilet flushes:

Dual Flush 

These toilets come with two flushing options. One is for liquid waste that needs a low amount of water. Another is for solid waste, which flushes out more water. 

Most dual flushes are push button based with a larger button for 1.28/1.6 GPF (Gallons Per Flush) and a smaller push button for .8 GPF. Though some people find it confusing at first, it suits everyone after a few times of use.

With every use, the smaller flush uses less water. Using a dual-flush toilet can save up to 67 percent of water. Even if you press both buttons at once it will still release the same amount as pressing the larger button. 

Single Flush

Single-flush toilets have only one type of flush for all uses. Modern single flushes are equipped with either 1.28 or 1.6 GPF. Single flushes use more water overall. Read more below about the differences.

However, these are easier to operate than dual flushes. There is often a single push button positioned on top of the water tank or a trip lever on the side connected to the ballcock. In the high cistern toilets, pull chains are used.

Height Recommendation

Toilet heights are measured from the floor to the seat. Different people find different heights convenient. 

You can choose between two height types: 

Chair Height

These toilets are around 17-19 inches tall with their seats. Some models come with even taller toilets at around 20 inches tall. 

These toilets also known as comfort height toilets or ADA toilets are specifically branded for being comfortable for the user. This is because it lets the user maintain a healthy posture for longer durations. 

Normal Height

A standard height toilet ranges from 14-17 inches from the ground to the seats. This height makes the user arch their backs slightly forward, which is medically proven to be a good position to help provide some extra bowel movement.

However, it is not a position you want to stay in for a long time. This position poses pressure on the spine of the user which may lead to back aches. 

Although, due to a user's height difference, the standard height would provide more comfort for people under 5 feet 6 inches.

Toilet Water Conservation

Saving around 5000 gallons of water per household over a year, 1.28 GPF HETs are comparably the best for water conservation. 

If you use a dual flush with a smaller flush of 0.8 GPF and a large flush of 1.28 GPF you will further increase the efficiency. The water cost of the saved water will pay for the toilet itself in around 4 years. 

Some of the best toilets consume lots of water. According to this blog, household toilets account for roughly 30% of our total daily water usage. Pretty surprising fact! So saving water in every toilet flush should be your footprint priority. Read more below about gallons per flush options for your toilet.

Gallons Per Flush

All models manufactured after 1994 use only 1.6 gallons(6 liters) in ULF toilets while more efficient models can reduce it to 1.28 gallons in HET and 1.1 gallons (4 liters) of water in UHET per flush. 

1.28 Gallons per Flush

lower GPF means the flushes use less water. It saves around a gallon of water per day on average. Moreover, the flush is quiet. 

On the cons, you might find the flush to be not as powerful even though that rarely occurs. Flushing twice however defeats the purpose of saving water. These HETs often have more skid marks on the pan compared to 1.6 GPF. 

1.6 Gallons per Flush

These flushes are powerful enough for any household. The flush comes through a larger valve and is somewhat noisy. It gets rid of all waste in a single go, and flushing twice isn’t an issue. It is also more hygienic as it keeps the toilets clean for a longer time with lesser skid marks.

However, with each flush, it uses excess water which oftentimes is way more than what’s required. Which can stack up to increase the total water cost unnecessarily.

Flange Size

If you don’t want to mount your toilet directly on the floor, then a flange is your go-to option. Here is what to consider:

10" Flange 

This is the standard size for flanges and fixes up according to most pipelines. This site will connect the closet bend to the pipeline without any extra extensions. It has a 3-inch diameter, thus ensuring the bottom joint of waste pipelines that also has a 3-inch diameter.

12" Flange

Also popular as deep flanges, these come with a 4×3 inch joint system. The bottom part connects with the pipeline as it has the same diameter of 3 inches. And the top part of the flange has a 4-inch diameter that will connect to all sizes of toilet basins. Its unit height is

 2 ¼ inches.

Be sure to check out some of our plumbing terms here.

What Is The Best Toilet Height For Seniors?

Many think that comfort seats are the best option for seniors. However, that isn’t necessarily true. The best height for seniors (as per ADA) is the height at which their feet are placed comfortably flat on the ground while sitting straight.

That means that their feet must not dangle from the seats. Seniors who are under 5 feet 4 can suffer discomfort as their feet can’t touch the ground. The worst part of that case is oftentimes they have to hold on to the seats to keep balance.  

The best height for seniors is to consider the user's height and balance it. Here’s a guide to understanding that:

What Should I Choose For My Small Bathroom? 

Considering you have little space in your bathroom you should focus on products that are compact wall-mounted products such as the tissue holder or accessories case. 

Select coupled two-piece toilets or a one-piece toilet rather than high cisterns to save space.

Final Words

Choosing the proper toilet needs customization of your needs. Consider your family members and their age along with what features you need in the toilets. In the long run, hygiene and comfort matter the most. So, prioritize them. Make sure to check our blog section for more useful household and toilet information.

Why Home Improvements Increase The Value Of Your House

When you're thinking about selling your house, the first thing that comes to mind is how much money you can get for it. You may be surprised to learn that home improvements can increase the value of your house by a significant amount. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most popular home improvements and how they can impact the sale price of your house. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right home improvement projects for your property. 

A home that meets the needs of most buyers 

When buyers are looking for a new home, they usually have a list of must-haves. If your house doesn’t have these features, it is likely that you will need to make some changes before putting it on the market. 

Namely, a well-equipped and updated kitchen, as well as updated bathrooms, are usually high on buyers’ lists. So, for instance, the average house prices in Auckland can be increased by as much as 20% just by adding a new kitchen. If your kitchen is on the smaller side, try to compensate by making it as functional and attractive as possible. 

The same goes for your bathroom – install new fixtures, tiles, and lighting to make it look bright and spacious. These home improvements will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also increase its value. 

Making your house energy-efficient 

Another factor that potential buyers take into account when looking for a new home is energy efficiency. More and more people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills, so a house that is energy-efficient will be more attractive to them. You can make your house more energy-efficient by installing solar panels, double-glazed windows, or insulation. These home improvements will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also help you save money on your energy bills. 

Making your house more spacious

Most people are looking for a house that is spacious and bright. If your house feels cramped and dark, you may want to consider making some changes to make it feel more open and airy. One way to do this is to knock down some walls to create an open-plan living area. This home improvement will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also make it feel more spacious.  Moreover, you can also try to make the most of the natural light in your house by installing skylights or windows. 

These home improvements will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also make it feel brighter and more spacious. 

Making your house more secure 

When it comes to security, most people are looking for a house that has a burglar alarm and security cameras. If your house doesn’t have these features, you may want to consider installing them. This home improvement will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also make it feel more secure. Security software, locks, and safes are also good home improvements to consider if you’re looking to increase the value of your house. The buyers will appreciate the extra security, and you will feel more secure in your home. 

On the other hand, the security aspect also includes the neighborhood in which your house is located. If you live in a safe neighborhood, this will also add to the value of your house. 

Making your house more sustainable 

As we become more aware of the impact our actions have on the environment, more and more people are looking for ways to make their homes more sustainable. You can make your house more sustainable by installing solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, or double-glazed windows. These home improvements will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also help you save money on your energy bills. 

Making cosmetic changes 

Finally, if you want to make some quick and easy changes to your house that will increase its value, then making cosmetic changes is a good option. This could include painting the walls, installing new flooring, or updating the lighting fixtures. These home improvements will not only make your house more appealing to buyers but also help you sell it for a higher price. 

If you’re thinking about selling your house, then making some home improvements is a great way to increase its value. By making your house more appealing to buyers and adding features that they are looking for, you can make a significant profit on the sale of your property. Choose the right home improvement projects for your property and budget, and you’ll be sure to see an increase in the value of your house

Go Over These Things Before Setting up a Plumbing Business

Setting up any kind of business demands a lot of forethought and preservation. However, different industries require different considerations. If you are planning on opening a plumbing business, you will have to deal with some things that are the same as opening any other company and some plumbing-specific concerns. This post will cover both considerations in no particular order and hopefully provide you with the information needed to start.

Open A Commercial Bank Account

In order to set up a business, you need to open a bank account, as it establishes your company as a legitimate entity and allows you to manage your finances better. A commercial bank account can give you access to various services that are unavailable with personal accounts, such as overdraft protection, low-interest loans, and international payment options. Moreover, a commercial bank account will give your business access to funds. Additionally, you can use this account to pay taxes, make payroll deposits, and pay vendors. Therefore, it is imperative to research potential banks thoroughly before making a decision. If you choose wisely, you will likely be with the bank for life. Conversely, if you select a bank that doesn't have your best interests at heart, you will find yourself with the unnecessary stress of moving elsewhere. 

Create A Business Plan

No matter how amazing you are at your craft, no business can succeed without a comprehensive business plan. The purpose of a business plan is to establish an enterprise's strategies, goals, and objectives. The document provides an overview of the company's competitive advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, a business plan will be necessary if you need to raise capital, leading nicely onto the next point.

Calculate Your Initial Expenses

You must ensure you have enough money to fund your startup costs when you start a business. The startup costs include equipment, marketing initiatives, and other operational expenses. It is also crucial for entrepreneurs to consider how much capital they will need in order to keep their business running in the long term. For example, if your company requires an expensive piece of equipment or licenses up front, it may be difficult for your company's cash flow situation in the future.

Ensure You Have The Right Insurance

It is important to consider relevant insurance when starting a business in order to protect your assets, employees, and company from unexpected events. An excellent way to find the best insurance company is by asking people in your network or looking at reviews online. You should also inquire about what kind of coverage they offer, their prices, and their deductibles. Some options to consider for plumbing include the following:

• Commercial general liability

• Commercial auto insurance

• Workers' compensation

• Surety bonds

• Business owner's policy

Decide What Services You'll Offer

People tend to buy plumbing as a necessity, not as a choice. That means many plumbing companies focus on these three features: 

1. Price

2. Quality

3. Speed

In this regard, your plumbing niche plays a significant role. If you are an expert, you can differentiate your business by the quality of your plumbing work. Moreover, you can choose to specialize in specific areas such as:

• Plumbing emergencies after hours

• Sewer repair

• Drain cleaning

• New construction

• Backflow testing and repair

• Water filtration

• Installation of water heaters

• Specialist fixture installations

As you start your plumbing company, consider your niche and gather endorsements offered in your state that apply to your area of expertise. Doing this establishes trust with potential clients and helps you target your marketing toward the right clients.

Come Up With A Name And Brand

When starting a business, developing a brand is essential to identify what your product stands for and represents, and plumbing is no different in this regard. Developing a brand is more than just creating a logo or slogan. It involves developing an identity for your company that reflects its values and resonates with the target audience. Creating something your target audience will recognize easily is the key to developing a successful brand. As a result, you can build loyal customers and differentiate yourself from your competitors. A strong brand identity can distinguish success and failure for any new business venture. 

A plumbing business can be profitable with the proper knowledge and networking. However, starting a successful business takes more than just a desire to profit. Starting a plumbing business requires having the right equipment, a capable team, strong management, a solid business plan, and a healthy bank account. Nevertheless, by following the tips outlined here, you should be able to achieve success in no time.

6 Sure Ways To Know Your Home Is Bug-Ridden

Are you having trouble getting rid of bugs in your home? Are you seeing more and more insects every day, no matter how many times you wipe them away? If so, your home might be bug-ridden. Don't worry, though; there are ways to know for sure. In this blog post, we will discuss six surefire ways to tell if your home is infested with bugs!

1. Seeing bugs regularly

If you find yourself constantly spotting bugs in your home, it's a clear sign that there is an infestation. The more bugs you see, the worse the problem likely is. When looking, be sure to check cracks and crevices, under furniture, and in dark corners where bugs like to hide. Namely, the professionals from Building and Pest Inspections Gold Coast say that cockroaches and termites are the common culprits in Australia. But what if you only see one or two bugs every now and then? While it's possible that they could just be stragglers, it's still worth investigating further to ensure there isn't a larger problem..

2. Finding droppings or shed skins

Another tell-tale sign of a bug infestation is finding droppings or shed skins in your home. This means that the bugs have been reproducing and living in your space for some time. Look out for spots and stains on walls and floors, as well as small piles of droppings. If you are dealing with bed bugs, then you should be able to notice stains on your sheets and pillowcases from their droppings.

3. Unpleasant odors

If you start to notice a musty or foul smell in your home, it could be from the presence of bugs. Cockroaches, for example, emit a strong odor that can permeate throughout a space. Other insects may also produce scents that indicate their presence in your home. The stronger the smell, the worse the infestation is likely to be.

4. Damage to belongings

Bugs can cause damage to your belongings, from holes in clothing and furniture to smashed food items. Keep an eye out for any unexpected damage that could be caused by a bug infestation. Even if the damage is small and seemingly insignificant, it could be a sign of a larger problem. So don't ignore it!

5. Seeing swarms

If you notice a swarm of bugs, especially in one specific area, it's a major indication that your home is infested. This could be anything from a cluster of flies to a group of ants or roaches. Pay attention to where the swarm is located; this can give you clues as to where the source of the infestation might be.

6. Hearing noises

Some bugs, such as crickets and cockroaches, can make noise at night. If you start to hear chirping or scurrying sounds in your home, especially when it's quiet and dark, it could be a sign of an infestation. Keep in mind that these noises may not always be obvious; if you suspect there could be a problem, try turning off all lights and electronics to see if you can hear any sounds of bugs.

Nevertheless, If you notice one or more of these signs in your home, it's important to take action and address the infestation as soon as possible. Leaving it unchecked can lead to further damage and discomfort. Consider contacting a professional pest control service to efficiently and effectively rid your home of bugs. Don't let them take over your space any longer - deal with the issue now! 

Lighten Up Your Outdoor Space With These Expert Tips

If you're looking for ways to lighten up your outdoor space, you've come to the right place. These expert tips will let you create a brighter, more inviting outdoor area that you and your guests can enjoy all season long.

Start with your light fixtures

There are a few reasons why starting with your light fixtures is an expert tip to lighten up your outdoor space. First, it's a great way to get an idea of the overall look and feel that you're going for. Do you want something elegant and sophisticated? Or a more casual vibe is right up your alley?

Once you have an idea of the overall atmosphere you're trying to create, you can start shopping for light fixtures that match that vision. If you're unsure where to start, look at some online photos of outdoor spaces to get ideas. You might be astonished at how many different options there are.

Another reason starting with your light fixtures is the good idea is that it can help you save money in the long run. They'll likely break or wear out quickly if you buy cheap lights. But if you invest in quality light fixtures, they'll last for years.

So if you're thinking of lightening up your outdoor space, start with your light fixtures. You'll be surprised at how much of a difference a few simple changes can make.

Add some solar lights

Solar lights are an excellent option if you want to lighten up your outdoor space without spending much money. They are convenient to install and require no wiring, so you can put them anywhere. Plus, they will help you save on your energy bill by using the sun's power to light up your space. In addition, using galvanised steel SHS columns helps to create a more modern look for your space. These columns or poles are sturdy and excellent for solar lights that need integral control gear.

Use light-colored or reflective materials

Using light-colored or reflective materials is a great way to do it when you're trying to lighten up your outdoor space. Not only will these materials help to brighten up the area, but they can also help to make it feel more open and airy. Additionally, they can help to reflect light back into space, making it seem even brighter. If you're unsure what materials to use, talk to a professional landscaper or garden center worker for some ideas. They'll be able to point you in the right direction and help you choose the best materials for your space.

Bring in some plants

Adding some plants to your outdoor space is a great way to create a more inviting and enjoyable area. Plants can provide shade and privacy and even help purify the air. They can also add color and life to an otherwise bland or boring space. Consider bringing in some plants if you're looking for ways to lighten your outdoor space.

Hang some holiday lights

Your outdoor space is a great place to enjoy the warmer months, but it can be challenging to keep things lit up when the sun goes down. That's where hanging some holiday lights comes in! 

Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy your backyard after dark, these lights will help you make the most of your space. Plus, they're easy to install and come in various colors and styles to find the perfect look for your home. So what are you waiting for? Hang some holiday lights today and enjoy your outdoor space all year long!

By following these tips, you can lighten up your outdoor space and create an inviting area you and your guests can enjoy all season long.

Top-Tier Screen Room Ideas

You can’t go wrong with the great outdoors when you’re always seeking for adventure, enjoyment, and relaxation. According to Healthline, the benefits of spending time outside include better breathing, improved emotional well-being, and boosted immune function. Are you a little extra lazy to go out but still want that warm summer sun in the comfort of your home? Screen rooms are probably what you’re looking for if you’re feeling outdoorsy while being hesitant to change your pajamas. If you still haven’t yet, you better check out these excellent screen room ideas that are perfect for whatever season.

1.    Screened-in porch

Ever wanted to enjoy the view of your backyard without dealing with mosquito bites and debris? A screened-in porch might be just for you! This way, you’d be able to spend your afternoon chitchats with friends and family with a generous flow of fresh air from outside. To put more life on your screened-in porch, you can put tables, chairs, and sofas to make it look inviting enough for visitors to sit in and also give them a chance to look around while you’re busy making coffee in the kitchen. 

2.    Reading nook

For all the bookworms out there, reading in a screened-in reading nook might just be the best and most practical way to enjoy your mornings and afternoons as you work on your reading assignments for school or just wallow in a book that you’ve been trying to finish for weeks. Having a place dedicated to reading allows you to stay focused and keep yourself away from distractions, while you listen to the birds chirping in the background. Consider it a place for meditation and where knowledge is cultivated.

3.    Alfresco dining area

Alfresco dining allows you to enjoy your food outdoors, which is a common setup in restaurants. But suppose you’re planning on doing it at home? If you don’t have a dedicated outdoor dining area, you might have to deal with the inconvenience of setting up tables and chairs in your backyard, and if the weather isn’t congruent with your little outdoor idea, then setting up outdoor tarps to protect your furniture wouldn’t be a fun thing to do. If you have a screened-in dining area at your home, you’re 100% free from all these problems. No matter the weather, there’s no doubt you’d be able to enjoy dinner without getting mud on your feet.

What’s your best pick?

The perfect and convenient option for enjoying the outdoors is to have a screen room. But what exactly will it be for you? You decide! Get creative and add furniture of your choice. Such renovation in your house will not only be an eye candy for you and your visitors but also serve as a place for experience and sharing good memories with friends and loved ones. And most of the time, they’re even more fun when these activities take place outdoors. Are you ready to improve your living situation? It’s time to get your custom screen rooms in Katy, TX, now!

What is the Safest Option to Kill Bed Bugs?

When you wake up, look for any small, itchy spots, red rashes, or blisters; these could be symptoms of bed bugs. These little pests may infest your mattress, bed frames, box springs, and headboard seams. Bed bugs can be challenging to eliminate because they are difficult to find and increase. You must eliminate bed bugs as soon as possible because they can spread to other parts of your house and become a severe issue.

Both landlords and tenants have a duty to keep rental properties free from pest infestations. Bed bug infestations, like other pest infestations, signify unhygienic living conditions and are regarded as violations of both the San Francisco Health Code and the State Housing Code if they are not controlled. Bed bugs can enter your home through luggage, used furniture and beds, clothing, and other household items, but they are not a sign that your house is dirty. Make sure to contact bed bug experts in San Francisco California.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are known to be pests, they are small and very hard to detect. But bed bugs are those types of pests that can break a home. When bed bugs are left untreated they can infiltrate the whole house due to the fact that they can spread quickly and the female bed bugs lay about five hundred eggs in their whole lifetime.

Pesticides/ Insecticides

1. Exposure to pesticides: Not only that bed bugs can develop resistance to pesticides, but they can also alter your day-to-day life without you noticing it. Exposure to pesticides can harm you and your family, not to mention that they can also hurt your pets.

2. Spraying pesticides can cause them to stray through the air and be transported thousands of miles from their original location. They contaminate your waterways and are present in the water you drink.

3. According to the WHO, acute pesticide poisoning claims the lives of over 350,000 people annually. Also excluded from this number are deaths from cancer and other chronic illnesses brought on by pesticide exposure. The WHO further predicts that long-term exposure may cause up to 750,000 people to annually develop certain cancers and chronic defects (World Health Organization, n.d.). Developing nations alone are included in this figure. The Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention (2022), also known as CPSP, also reports that self-poisoning with pesticides accounts for 15-20% of all suicides.

4. By 2020, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) predicts that sub-Saharan Africa will have spent $90 billion on illnesses and injuries brought on by pesticide use. This is more than the sum of all foreign aid given to the area for basic healthcare, excluding HIV/AIDS (United Nations Environment Programme, 2020).

How can I guard against harm when using or handling pesticides?

When possible, the WHO advises minimizing the use of pesticides. Find out first whether using pesticides is actually necessary and to what extent. Wherever possible, try to find non-chemical pest management solutions to the problem.

If pesticides are required, look for products with the lowest environmental and human health risks.

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application and personal safety when using pesticides. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is frequently necessary to prevent direct contact with the pesticide and reduce exposure while handling and applying it. 

According to Trusted Source, about 300 insecticide products are approved for use in the U.S. to treat bed bug infestations. The primary chemical classes are as follows: 

1. The two most frequently used pesticides to treat bed bugs are pyrethrins and pyrethroids. Chrysanthemum flowers are the source of pyrethrins, and pyrethroids are their synthetic counterparts. They affect the bugs' nervous systems. In particular, populations of older-generation products and some bed bug populations have developed resistance to these chemicals.

2. Silicates: Among these is the dust from diatomaceous earth (DED). Desiccant, they are. After the waxy, protective outer coating is destroyed, the bed bugs are killed by dehydration. Since the effects are physical rather than neurochemical, bugs cannot develop resistance to these substances.

3. IGRs (insect growth regulators): Examples include hydroplane and (S)-methoprene. Before the pesticides work, the insects must bite to draw blood. They are, therefore, a less appealing choice.

4. Carbamates: Bendiocarb and propoxur are two examples. Although they are more effective than pyrethrins and pyrethroids, resistance is starting to show.

5. Neonicotinoids: Imidacloprid is one example. These are efficient and produce no resistance. They have no lasting impact.

6. Pyrroles: These have a prolonged action, a low efficacy, but no resistance problems. Chlorfenapyr is the only pyrrole bed-bug pesticide in the United States.

DEDs and other desiccants work well against bed bugs. They benefit from several things, including: 

●      extended shelf life

●      low mammalian toxicity

●      extended residual life

●      minimal likelihood of resistance

●      they can be applied as a safeguard

Vacuuming

Vacuuming is a safe way to try getting rid of bed bugs. While vacuuming can kill adult bugs, it's less effective against eggs and larvae, and applying diatomaceous earth correctly is necessary to ensure maximum effectiveness.

The bed bugs can, in fact, crawl out of vacuums. When you vacuum up bed bugs from your sheets and upholstery, they don't perish. Additionally, despite how thoroughly you vacuum, bed bugs can still escape back out because many vacuum cleaners don't have perfect one-way valves.

Heat

Heat is one of the most essential factors in getting rid of bed bugs. Not only is heat treatment safe, but it also helps you eliminate bed bugs and their eggs.

Bed bugs cannot survive high heat. Our company offers one of the best bed bug heat treatments in San Francisco, California. You can effectively kill fabric bed bugs by washing them in hot water.

Bed bugs die when their body temperature reaches 45° Celsius or 113° Fahrenheit. You can kill all stages of the bugs by subjecting them for an hour to temperatures above these. All bed bugs are quickly killed at temperatures above 60°C (140°F) (Doggett et al., 2012).

 The high temperatures required to heat a room make it unlikely to succeed. Bed bugs will seek out the more excellent parts of the room where the heat is not present, which could spread an infestation.

Cold

Not only that bed bugs cannot survive high heat, they also cannot survive low temperatures. Bed bugs are known for being common in areas that are hot. Bed bugs are prevalent especially in the months of August and September.

Cold temperatures can kill bed bugs, but for the cold to penetrate an object and kill all the bugs and eggs, it must be below -18°C (0°F) for at least four days.

Smaller items that could harbor bed bugs can be placed in a freezer that is cold enough, and You should measure the 4-day window from the moment the object's center reaches -18°C (0°F). Bulkier objects require more time to process.

The EPA cautions that it may take a while to work, and those home freezers may not be cold enough to kill bugs (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2022).

Instant-freezing gas systems are ineffective and risk spreading an infestation because the high air pressure can drive the bugs away.

Experts

The best course of action is to get rid of them using a certified bed bug exterminator. Experienced pest controllers can successfully eradicate an infestation of bed bugs.

Professionals in pest control should:

1. Verify any infestation

2. Examine the area and, if possible, the surrounding areas.

3. Utilize both insecticides and non-chemical methods of control.

4. Review the course of treatment to ensure its success. 

5. recommend or implement preventative measures 

The use of pesticides is the most typical method of extermination. You and your family’s health could be in danger from these chemicals, though. Therefore, unless the infestation is more severe, our professionals try to avoid using this technique. Depending on the extent of the infestation, more than one method may be employed. Additionally, heat, steam, and vacuum are treatments for bed bugs. These solutions call for powerful tools that would be prohibitively expensive for the typical consumer. Professional-grade equipment is available to and used by our bed bug specialists.

References:

Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention. (2022, September 5). The Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention | CPSP - The Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention (CPSP) works to reduce the number of pesticide suicides worldwide. https://centrepsp.org/

Doggett, S. L., Dwyer, D. E., Peñas, P. F., & Russell, R. C. (2012). Bed bugs: Clinical relevance and control options. PubMed Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3255965/

Pesticide Action Network UK. (2018, July 11). Working to reduce global suicide by pesticide ingestion. https://www.pan-uk.org/working-to-reduce-global-suicide-by-pesticide-ingestion/

United Nations Environment Programme. (2020). About UN environment programme. UNEP - UN Environment Programme. https://www.unep.org/about-un-environment

United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2022, February 22). Top ten tips to prevent or control bed bugs. US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/top-ten-tips-prevent-or-control-bed-bugs

World Health Organization. (2022, September 15). Pesticide residues in food. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/pesticide-residues-in-food#:~:text=WHO%20has%20two%20objectives%20in%20relation%20to%20pesticides%3A,limits%20for%20pesticide%20residues%20in%20food%20and%20water

World Health Organization. (n.d.). Chemical safety: Pesticides. WHO | World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/chemical-safety-pesticides

5 Minor Yet Game Changing Home Decors

Home decor can be a wonderful way to bring life and vibrancy into your space. But even the most well-intentioned interior design plans might not be enough to really capture the imagination of your friends, family, and neighbors. Instead, you’ll need to get creative and come up with something that will wow them. After all, if you want to change the look of your home and give it that much-needed facelift, then you’re going to need some new ideas. These are 5 minor yet game changing home designs that can totally transform any space in no time at all.

●     For a Contemporary Home Decor

There’s no reason why you can’t completely revamp your interior decor with a fresh look. You don’t have to keep things traditional and stick to a dated style. Instead, you can completely change things up and create a fresh and modern look for your home. You can do this by choosing bold colors, incorporating some crisp white surfaces, and adding some metallic accents. You can even try incorporating some shapes, textures, and patterns into your interior design. In fact, you can create a fully modern interior decor look by updating your kitchen and bathroom. These are two spaces that are sure to be the center of attention in any home and can be transformed into a modern, stylish, and eco-friendly home decor using these design tips.

●     For an Eco-Friendly Home Decor

There’s no reason not to make your home eco-friendly. You can use some eco-friendly home decor items, like wooden or bamboo flooring, and wall coverings, to make your home more eco-friendly. You can also choose to paint your walls with eco-friendly paints, like low-VOC paints, and you can even install low-flow plumbing fixtures and showerheads in your bathrooms, to reduce your water consumption. You can also incorporate eco-friendly furniture items into your interior design, like eco-friendly couches, chairs, and beds, to reduce your carbon footprint. You can also use natural wood paneling or stone tiles in your bathrooms, to make them more eco-friendly. You can also install an energy efficient lighting system, like a motion sensor lighting system, and invest in some energy efficient appliances, like an energy efficient washing machine, to reduce your energy consumption. You can also make your home more appealing to potential buyers by adding these eco-friendly home decor elements to your interior design.

●     For an Old World Manor Home Decor

Looking for some old world home decor inspiration? You’re in luck, as there are plenty of unique ways to incorporate the charm of an old world home into your interior design. For example, you can choose a dark wooden finish for your floors, for an old world home feel. You can also choose to paint your walls a rich, warm color, like a honey or a biscuit color, to create a welcoming and homey atmosphere in your home. You can also add some old world home decor items, like a vintage library, to create a feeling of history and grandeur. You can also add some old world home decor items, like a vintage clock, to create a sense of timelessness and tranquility in your home. You can also incorporate old world home decor items, like a vintage vase, to create a feeling of serenity and beauty in your home. You can also incorporate old world home decor items, like a vintage painting or vintage light switch covers to create a feeling of timelessness and tranquility in your home.

●     For an Urban Loft Home Decor

Urban loft home decor can be a great way to create a truly modern interior decor look in your home. If you struggle to find unique interior design ideas but would love to create a truly modern interior decor look in your home, then this is a great place to start. Now, if you want to get even more serious about creating a truly modern interior decor look, then you should consider incorporating a few major changes. Firstly, you should consider completely removing your old interior decor. This will allow you to completely refresh your interior decor and create a truly modern look. You can also change out your wall colors, flooring, and furniture to create a truly modern look.

●     For a Charming Guest Room Decor

If you have a charming guest room, then there are four major ways that you can make this space truly special and charming. First, you can choose to paint this room a bold yet charming color, like a sunny yellow. You can also choose to add a cute rug or soft curtains to create a more welcoming and homey atmosphere in this room. You can also choose to create a charming accent wall in this room, like a vintage photograph, to create a more welcoming and homey atmosphere in this room. You can also choose to add a decorative lamp, like a Victorian lantern lamp, to create a more welcoming and homey atmosphere in this room.

 

The world is changing. The way we live is changing. And so should your home decor.

When it comes to home decorating, there are some small things that can make a huge difference.There are many ways to bring a fresh look to your home interior decor, and these 5 minor yet game changing home designs are a great place to start. Whether you want to create an eco-friendly home decor or revamp your interior decor with a modern or old world feel, these 5 designs are sure to get you started in the right direction. They are also a great way to diversify your home decor and avoid getting stuck in a rut. If you’re looking to change the look of your home, but aren’t sure where to begin, then these tips are a great place to start.