Category: General Articles

Having a backyard pool is a great way to spend the warm months outside. The convenience means you can enjoy it whenever the desire strikes rather than waiting for the community pool to open. One key aspect of pool maintenance is testing the water. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Test

Why should you bother with water testing Pittsburgh pools? For starters, there is more in your swimming pool water than just plain water. There are a variety of chemicals most notably chlorine. Minerals and metals such as copper, nitrates, iron, phosphates and manganese. Not to mention the bacteria, viruses and algae that can cause problems for humans and the equipment.

Testing Options

As a homeowner, you can test the water yourself using liquid test kits or test strips. The liquid test kits have a collection area for the pool water. Most have two collection areas: one for chlorine …

You rely on your HVAC system to keep the air in your home comfortable and safe. One of the most important features of your HVAC system is the air filter. Air is drawn into the system through the filter before it is heated or cooled and returned into your home. Checking and changing your HVAC air filter regularly is crucial.

Keep the Air Clean

The air filter of your HVAC system functions to remove contaminants such as dust, dirt, pollen, and other allergens from the air. Over time, the filter fills up. When it’s dirty, it can’t properly remove contaminants from the air. This can result in a greater concentration of dust or allergens in your home. For those with allergies, being in the home can be miserable. Changing the filter regularly ensures that all contaminants are removed from the air, keeping it safe for all to breathe.

Maintain an

There are a lot of people who prefer to DIY when it comes to home maintenance projects. Not only does it save homeowners a lot of money, there is a certain satisfaction that comes from accomplishing projects around the home. Unfortunately, there are times when it’s best to leave projects to the professionals. In order to prevent extensive damage to your home or harm to yourself, here are instances when you should leave the work to the experts.

Pest Control

Many homeowners make the mistake of handling pest control on their own. Picking up a can of ant or spider spray at your local grocery store does not count as pest control. When it comes to pest control services, a professional company has the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to eliminate any pest infestations in and around your home.

Major Remodeling

Any time that you need to get a …

Getting more from your home can be beneficial in a number of ways. Making the right improvements helps you maximize how you use your house and may even help you add value to your property. If you’re looking to make some important changes around the house, now is the time to act. Consider these ideas and find the right adjustments for your home.

Cosmetic Changes

First, you may want to think about changes you can make to your house’s appearance. Some of these tasks can be simple and are easily accomplished in a weekend. Make a project out of painting your kitchen cabinets, for example, and you can infuse some new life into the room with minimal effort. If you’re looking to tackle something a bit more complicated, hire professionals to paint the exterior of your home. This can boost its curb appeal and make it look like a …

The quality of indoor air is often overlooked but should get more consideration. Poor air quality can lead to short-term health problems and also cause lasting health issues. The best way to negate the effects of indoor air pollutants is often to reduce exposure. Improve the air quality in a home by incorporating a few extra measures into the cleaning schedule.

Change Air Filters

Keeping air filters clean is usually imperative for good air quality. This is usually a simple process that does not require hiring a professional to complete. An air filter may need replacing every two or three months. A good tactic for determining when to replace an air filter is to check it monthly for at least a year. With the information gathered, it can be easy to set up an air filter changing schedule.

Sweep Chimneys

Having the fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least …