Shocking Home Security Statistics – How To Choose The Best System

According to the Department of Justice, just over 3.7 million burglaries occur each year on average. If that statistic doesn’t concern you, it should. Installing a home security system is the only way for most homeowners to have peace of mind.

The question, however, how do you choose a home security system that fits your unique and specific household. There are, after all, several different types of alarm systems available. But first, let’s take a look at some more staggering burglary statistics.

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12 Staggering Burglary and Home Invasion Statistics

  1. Every five minutes, unlocked doors and windows facilitate about 23 burglaries.
  2. Some home invaders don’t even need to turn a knob. In about 30 percent of these incidents, residents unlock and open their doors for intruders.
  3. Roughly 90 percent of standard locks are vulnerable to a special type of key that criminals use to simply unlock them without any force needed.
  4. Insurers often refuse to provide compensation because victims can’t produce evidence of a break-in.
  5. One in four burglars cut security systems or phone wires before they enter your home. This is a major reason to consider using an alarm with wireless monitoring.
  6. Approximately 83% of convicted thieves say they attempt to determine whether or not a home has a security system before trying to commit burglary.
  7. 1 in 3 non-violent invasions involve criminals familiar to the victims
  8. Each year, burglars cause property damage and losses that cost Americans over $4 billion.
  9. Victims and insurers spend nearly $13 million per day on repairs and replacements.
  10. Although business theft makes the news more frequently, the FBI reports almost 74% of burglaries happen in residential homes.
  11. Each burglarized home has been targeted an average of 1.9 times. Criminals often return because they know how to break in and where to find valuables.
  12. Approximately four out of five thieves benefit from online social networks.  Posting details on Facebook about your vacation is just an advertisement of an empty standing home.
  13. It’s rather difficult to find thieves after they leave the scene of the crime, and police in cities often have higher priorities. The authorities only succeed in arresting about one out of eight burglars.

These statistics reveal the importance of locking doors and making an effort to conceal valuable belongings. They also show that a sophisticated security alarm can greatly enhance your safety.

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What Type of Home Security System Should I Get?

There are three major types of home security systems to consider when you start to browse your options.

Monitoring, or Self-Reporting

This is a system that connects to a security service via your landline, mobile phone, internet connection, or all three.

The benefits of a monitored security system are obvious. Even if you are not at home, someone will always be watching. And in the event of an emergency, the police or medical services can be dispatched at the touch of a button. The downside to landline and wireless internet, however, is that phone lines can be cut, and a power outage causes DSL and cable internet service to become unavailable. Cellular services, on the other hand, are almost always available, and modern home security systems come with many safety nets to prevent any interruptions to your service altogether.

Installation or Service-Based

The service-based home security system can be either installed by a professional or DIY.  These can be hard-wired or wireless. The benefit of having a professional install your system is that you know for certain that the install is done correctly.

The installer will also show you how to use the system. In older buildings, using an installer is beneficial because older homes can be problematic. A local professional will better understand how to solve those problems.

wireless-home-security

If you choose to install the system yourself, you have the benefit of taking all your equipment with you when you leave. This is highly beneficial for renters especially. However, you are often limited to a wireless system only that takes upwards of 40-minutes to install – provided you know what you are doing, and if it breaks you will be responsible for the costs associated with replacing it.

Professionally installed equipment is almost always owned by the security service company. That means they pay for upgrades and replacement systems as well as replace faulty equipment free of charge.

Security Plus Systems

Security plus systems refer to a home automation system that includes a security detail. Many homeowners opt for partial or full house automation systems that revolve around a home security unit. These systems range from basic and easy-to-use, or if you want, control your home from the palm of your hand. Programmable features like remote access, HVAC controls, lighting controls, doors, automated curtains/drapery, or several other compatible appliances.

These systems can save you money on heating and cooling costs, and they add a massive element of convenience to your lifestyle.

Which System is Best for You?

If you rent, then the DIY system may be better for you simply because you can take it with you when you move and you don’t have to depend on a landlord for your own security. Renters often shrug responsibility until they become a victim of a burglary.

If you own your home, professionally installed self-monitoring systems are likely the best choice. Homeowners may also be more interested in home automation systems that include security. These systems give you control over many systems within your home and offer the convenience of remote access and controls from your smart device.

Why You Should Never Hire Unlicensed Masonry and Building Contractors

It may be tempting to hire a builder or masonry professional that offers you the lowest quote – but BUYER BEWARE. This is one of the most common mistakes often caused by budget constraints.  It’s no secret that poor installations lead to premature maintenance and even early replacement.

That’s why investing in a builder for repairs or improvements around your home shouldn’t be taken lightly.

More importantly, comparing estimates is arguably the first and most critical step to success when you’re ready to employ a masonry contractor or general builder. This is because you will immediately start to get a feel for not only your regional pricing trends but also which contractor will be best for your particular remodeling project.

And it’s also your chance to question why one estimate is significantly lower than others.

Here are some of the most important reasons why you should never hire unlicensed masonry or general contractors.

Increase the Overall Value of Your Property

Any remodeling work done to your home should increase the overall value of your property. However, much will depend on the quality of the workmanship. If you ever decide to sell your home, you’re required to disclose specific information to the potential buyers. This includes any repairs and remodeling work done.

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If any remodeling work was done without permits or isn’t up to code, you could be facing lowered property values during the sale. Additionally, as the homeowner, you would be responsible for the costs to have this work redone (the right way) since unlicensed builders rarely have bond or liability insurance.

Up To Code – Proper Protection

It’s important to understand that the issue with hiring an unlicensed builder isn’t always the level of quality in their workmanship. Becoming a licensed builder usually comes with specific requirements.

Many repair and remodeling projects will require permits. Equally, many unlicensed builders willing to quote for the job may not always be willing to follow those guidelines.

masonry-chimney

It’s not uncommon for an unlicensed builder to be without worker’s compensation insurance. Unfortunately, this coverage is essential to protect homeowners in the event a worker is injured on your property.

If your builder or one of his employees gets hurt, like falling from a ladder, as the homeowner, you could be held responsible for thousands of dollars in medical bills for their injury.

This can also cause serious problems for the homeowner in a number of other ways. For example, the local municipality could impose steep fines and require the work to be redone by a licensed contractor. Of course, this financial responsibility will fall on you.

The bigger issue is often the lack of protection for the homeowner if things go awry. If you are considering ways to save on your remodeling or home repair project and thinking of hiring an unlicensed masonry – think again.

There are many insurance requirements that go along with being a licensed professional. This is the safety net for you as a homeowner.  Don’t blow your remodeling budget on unfortunate situations like a builder’s negligence.

It’s absolutely essential to ask your potential builder to provide you with proof of their liability and worker’s compensation insurance coverage.

Questions to Ask Masonry and Building Contractors Before You Hire

Once you’ve narrowed down your potential list of contractors and vetted them online, be ready with some questions such as:

  • Do you specialize in any kinds of masonry and building work?
  • What certifications do you have?
  • How long have you worked in the area?
  • Do you offer any guarantees or warranties?
  • Will you clean up after the work is finished?
  • Can you provide references?

Don’t be intimidated to call and verify your potential builder’s references of past clients. You can ask questions like:

  • How well did the builder stick to the original budget and timeline?
  • How satisfied were they with the builder’s workmanship and the final results of their project?
  • How well, and how often, did the builder communicate with clients during the project?

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By following some of these basic steps you will be getting your remodeling project off on the right foot by ensuring that you are completely covered when hiring someone for your next home repair or remodeling project.

Taking the time to do your research and to ensure your builder is licensed and properly insured is not negotiable. Licensing qualifications can vary from state to state and city to city, so check e to verify the requirements with your local municipality before any work commences.

Compare FREE Masonry and Building Contractor Estimates

If you are ready to figure out the cost of some masonry building work around your home, why not start by reaching out to local professionals to compare their estimates.

How Much Does Tree Removal Cost

When it comes to curb appeal, it’s more than just maintaining a beautiful lawn. Proper tree care is very necessary and can really enhance the overall look of your home’s exterior.

cut-down-a-tree

On the other hand, sometimes it is necessary to remove a tree for several reasons. It might have been damaged during a storm, it might be dying, causing damage to your foundation, or simply just neglected with falling branches causing damage to your property. More importantly, an unstable tree can be extremely dangerous to anyone near it, not to mention the risk of falling on your neighbor’s property.

DIY vs Professional Tree Cutting Services

Whatever the reason may be for possible tree removal, bringing in a professional tree removal service could be the only way to get the job done with the least amount of hassle.

Doing it yourself is always going to cost less upfront but always keep in mind that removing a tree can be dangerous even for the most enthusiastic DIYer.

In fact, arborists and tree surgeons have one of the most dangerous careers in the world. Regardless of all the safety measures takes alongside the necessary qualifications, around 200 die every year from tree removal accidents. This is why, when comparing estimates, be sure to check for up-to-date licensing and insurance.

So before you consider doing it yourself, consider the risks involved with climbing a tree and operating heavy equipment at the same time. It takes a level of experience to successfully remove any tree.

More importantly, a professional service may in some cases even be able to save the tree.

Understanding how much it might cost you is just as important, so be sure to come to terms with exactly what is required before you bring in a professional service to take care of your landscaping needs.

How Much Does It Cost To Remove Trees?

Before you can get to an accurate price on your tree removal costs, it’s important to remember that several factors can influence the overall cost.

Here are some of the factors that may affect your bottom line:

  • DIY vs bringing in the professional
  • your location
  • size, number, and type of the trees
  • the thickness of the branches
  • replacement services

The average cost to remove a tree ranges anywhere from $150 on the low to as much as $1,500+ depending on several factors.

Equally, stump removal is a separate service for most professional tree removal companies. and can add anywhere from $60 to as high as $1,000 for stump grinding.

If you insist on doing it yourself, here are some additional costs to consider:

  • Heavy-duty gas tree trimmer rental: $48-$52+ per day
  • Hand-held pruners and loppers: $30-$55
  • Safety equipment: $50-$150
  • Gas pole pruner: $150-$325
  • Dumping fees: $25-$100

Many tree removal services operate 24 hours a day, and local professionals also keep a fleet of specialized vehicles ready. The costs will vary. It is highly recommended that you compare several quotes from professionals in your area to remove trees on your property.

What Happens When a Tree Falls in my Neighbor’s Yard?

It may come as a surprise, but when your neighbor’s tree falls and damages your property, you may still be out of pocket – even though it’s not your tree. Of course, whichever side of the property line the trunk stands on establishes the rightful owner.

However, once it falls, reasonable negligence will play a factor in determining liability. Local tree removal experts may in some cases even be able to settle the dispute faster than the local authorities.

Nevertheless, always keep in mind that, even when a tree is not on your property, you still have a responsibility to alert the owner of possible dangers.

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When a tree does fall and breaches onto your property, the tree will (in most cases) be where it crosses over onto the other side.

Whatever is on your side of the fence is your responsibility. A land surveyor can determine the exact boundary line between two properties as well as iron pipes embedded into the ground to work out who is responsible for which portion of tree removal.

However, reasonable negligence will play a factor in determining liability after a tree falls should a dispute arise.

For example, if the tree owner ignores visible signs of deterioration, you still have the responsibility to prove that you made reasonable efforts to alert the owner of the problem in order to remedy the situation. Some form of written communication between you and your neighbor will assist in case of a dispute arising.  On the other hand, if a well-maintained tree falls due to extreme weather (such as a tornado), it will be considered an “act of God”.

 

 

 

Storm Window Replacement – What You Need To Consider

Storm-windows-vectorDo your storm windows need to be replaced? Maybe they are old storm windows outdated or just that showing signs of wear and tear.

Or, maybe your current storm windows aren’t adequately protecting your home due to poor installation.

On the other hand, you might just be on the market for a particular style or brand of the storm window.

Regardless of the reason, we know that you’ll be in search of a knowledgeable professional who is able to complete your job on budget and on time, and in a manner consistent with your vision.

young-children-looking-snowfallStorm-Windows-with-shutters

Why Hire a Professional

When you have storm windows that are properly sized, sealed, and secured, you will enjoy reduced heating and cooling costs that add up over time. In the long run, your professionally installed windows will end up paying for themselves.

However, it cannot be overstated that much will depend on the quality of your installation. Poorly installed windows will only lead to premature maintenance and replacements, not to mention sub-par performance.  This is true for most remodeling projects.

Getting the right professional on board will get your installation project off to a good start and give you peace of mind knowing that your product is going to perform as intended.

More importantly, opting for a reputable company with the correct licensing and insurance will ensure your work is done up to code and that you will also be covered in the event of any accidents.

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The Advantages of Storm Windows

There are many advantages to having storm windows. First off, replacing your storm windows is a cost-effective and affordable home improvement project that won’t require major home renovations.

  • Reduces the airflow for good insulation
  • Easy to install
  • Helps to reduce noise
  • An extra layer of security

Disadvantages of Storm Windows

• Hard to clean
• Less aesthetically attractive than most replacement windows
• Must be replaced every few years
• Must be maintained to avoid weathering and oxidation
• Tracks must be lubricated and cleaned
• Can trap moisture on the window interior

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How Much Do Replacement Storm Windows Cost?

There are so many styles and sizes of storm windows on the market that it can simply become overwhelming when you start to consider all your options.

However, it’s important to remember that this type of investment will instantly improve your home’s value and curb appeal – and it doesn’t come cheap. That’s why comparing estimates from several suppliers is your best bet of ensuring you get a more accurate idea of your regional pricing trends.

Another major factor to keep in mind is that it is virtually impossible to get an accurate price on storm window installation without some of your details. There are many factors that will influence the overall price.

Having said that, the national average price for storm window installation can range anywhere from $110$275 per window.

Additional cost factors to consider

Any type of window replacement job includes removing your old windows, repairing and adjusting the exterior window frames, caulking, and then positioning and securing the new window.

Your location can also make a difference to the bottom line.  If you live in a remote location, transportation costs can be affected. Extra supplies, additional manpower, special materials, and renting specialty equipment are all possible costs that may apply to your storm window replacement job.

Compare Free Storm Window Replacement Estimates

Are you in the process of gathering estimates on storm window replacement for your property? Why not get in touch with some local experts right now to compare some of their rates.

How Installing a Stairlift Can Change Your Life

Stairlifts are a perfect way to take anything upstairs without actually taking the stairs. Think of them as a small enough lift that will fit into your house without forcing you to build an elevator shaft.  They can be used for more than just transporting someone up or downstairs. Stairlifts are also practical for carrying groceries, laundry, or other heavy objects up and down the stairs.

However, the stairlifts are more than just a convenient way of moving along the staircase.

Here’s Why You Need To Consider a Stairlift

Modern stairlifts are a convenience to anyone who cannot take the stairs for one reason or another. Living with seniors or someone with a disability in a  multi-level home can be very challenging.

If your parents are moving in, they are a perfect way to let your loved one enjoy that feeling of independence and mobility since they won’t have to dread every moment they have to move from one level to another.

While moving to a new home might sound like a plausible solution, it can be quite traumatic since you will have to trade your beloved home for something else. Moreover, the stress of moving and settling in a new neighborhood can be extremely trying.

To injured or slightly disabled, the stairlift will not only make moving up and down the stairs simpler but also reduce the chances of slipping and falling.

Combine this with the fact that the lift will do away with the need to walk up and down the stairs with heavy loads and you get a happier family that doesn’t need any special care to accommodate illness, injuries, or old age.

How Exactly Do Stairlifts Work?

Stairlifts can work on either straight staircases or curved staircases. Curved staircase lifts tend to be costlier to install and maintain.

The stairlift consists of a comfortable seat with a footrest and easy-to-use controls. It rides a rail up and down the stairs and uses a small but powerful motor installed beneath the seat. Typical stairlifts will run on 0.5 or 3/4 horsepower motors that are just about enough to carry a heavy person up and down the stairs.

A remote or a switch on the armrest will control the seat’s speed and up or down motion. The power to run the stairlift can come straight from your mains supply or a rechargeable battery that will keep the seat moving even when there is a power outage.

Standard seats will carry up to 300 pounds while heavy-duty models have bigger seats and can easily accommodate up to 350 lbs.

Safety Features Are Improving By the Day

Even though the stairlift is designed to make life simpler and safer, most homeowners still remain skeptical of its safety features. While initial stairlifts might have been a nightmare, most of the modern builds are packed to the brim with safety that makes operation safer and easier than ever.

Soft start and stop make it comfortable to ride all the way while a swivel and lock feature makes it easier to embark or disembark. A couple of sensors that monitor leg positions, obstacles along the way, loading weight and armrest position sensors.

All these sensors ensure that the lift only moves when someone is seated in a safe position and will never roll over an obstacle making it safer for the user and all members of the house.

 

8 Alternative Locations To Place Motion Sensor Alarms

Motion sensor alarms remain a crucial part of just about any home security system. These compact devices will trigger alarms, lights, surveillance cameras, and/or monitoring services when any unexpected movement is detected. They come in many different varieties and may be used to achieve a variety of safety and security goals.

Although the primary objective of a motion sensor alarm is to detect intruders, homeowners may use them in several ways. A strategically placed sensor could warn parents when children enter potentially dangerous parts of a home. It can also conserve power or video storage space by only activating lights and surveillance cameras when they’re needed.

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Where To Place Your Motion Sensors

When setting up a home security system, most people go straight for the doors and windows when placing the motion sensor alarms. There is nothing wrong with this and, after all, these are the main access points to the house.

This does not mean, however, that doors and windows are the only locations where home security sensors are effective. In fact, they can be placed almost anywhere you want an eye.

Each home has a different configuration and setup and motion sensor alarms are able to cover areas of your unique layout effectively.

More importantly, motion sensor alarms are especially useful for the renter looking to improve upon their security.

However, here are some alternative placings to consider when you want to keep an eye on the less obvious areas of your home.

Gun Cabinets

If you own firearms, keeping them safe and away from others should be your top priority. While a gun cabinet is a start, you need to know when someone attempts to even access it. You might have an energetic child around the house always getting into places they are not supposed to. Guns inside of the home are more likely to kill a family member than an intruder, often due to this varied problem. So, the simple addition of a motion sensor alarm is a life-saving option.

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Home Theater System

A home security system is designed to protect your home and your loved ones. However, you can also use it to make sure children are not accessing the entertainment room if they have homework and chores to complete first.

Moreover, the home theater is where the most valuable electronics in the house are located. These electronics are also some of the easiest to remove and steal. Gone are the days of 600-pound big-screen televisions impossible to burgle.

Now, 80 inch flat screens weigh next to nothing, yet might cost a pretty penny. A wireless motion sensor placed around the doorway entering your home theater can provide you with information as to when someone enters the room.

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Alcohol Cabinet

Teenagers are always looking towards more adult activities. Consuming alcohol is one of these activities. To know if your child is attempting to access the liquor cabinet, place a motion sensor alarm inside the door to assist with the problem. Of course, if someone should enter your house, whether it be a visitor or an intruder, you want to know if they are making off with an expensive bottle of scotch or that bottle of wine you received as a wedding gift.

Tools and Trailers

Tools are expensive and often constitute a lifetime of collecting for a job on the go. While someone likely is not going to break in to steal the 3/8 socket wrench, they might break in to steal the saws, electrical equipment, tool chest, and other expensive working hardware. Some of the most expensive and valuable items in and around your house can be found in your garage, so protecting your garage with the help of a security sensor should prove helpful.

Collectibles and Other Stuff of Value

Do you have a secret stash somewhere? Maybe you have a rainy day fund you don’t have in the bank or a small safe hidden away with some gold coins or other valuables. This is not something you openly advertise. That doesn’t guarantee that people don’t know about it though.

You probably don’t want your child taking the gold coins to school or trying out the loose diamonds and dropping them down the air intake vent. One simple motion sensor alarm can avoid a lot of heartaches.

Medicine Cabinet

Much like the alcohol cabinet, the medicine cabinet needs to be protected. Think of a worst-case scenario. Not only can a prescription drug addiction cause problems early on, but you may find yourself in legal trouble if a child is caught selling your medication.

Seasonal Gear

Motion sensor alarms can protect your expensive toys. Bikes, jet skis, kayaks, or really anything else you might not use during certain parts of the year. Because you don’t use them often, you might not even realize when it is gone.  Protecting your seasonal gear with a home security sensor.

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Avoid False Alarms – Opt for Professional Motion Sensor Alarm Installations

The proper placement of a detector can reduce the risk of malfunction or false alarms. For example, it’s best to avoid putting passive infrared units where they will be affected by bright sunlight or heating equipment. Consider using a different detection technology in these areas and never underestimate the input of a professional. You may think that

 

5 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Home Security System

Security systems are meant to be that safety net and a wall of protection between you and intruders. It’s also put in place for a variety of other emergencies. A good home security system is meant to not only protect your belongings but also protect you and your loved ones’ life.

However, choosing the perfect system is not as easy as it seems at first. It can become a daunting task and can almost seem impossible at times to ensure you are totally covered.

Here are the top 5 factors to consider when you want to get a home security system to cover all your unique and specific requirements.

Burglar-entering

1. Be Realistic About Your Budget

Good home security systems are not cheap.  This is an investment that’s not only a safety net but also increases the overall value of your home. However, if you do not have a lot of disposable income, finding a security system that fits your budget can be a struggle. Always remain realistic about your budget before talking to a salesperson and go through every package to figure out what features are available with lower-tier alarm systems.

Many top providers offer low-cost options that allow you to stay protected. The key is asking your provider questions instead of just blindly picking a system that “seems” right. A little bit of negotiation can go a long way so you can remain within your original budget and, more importantly, pay for a type of coverage you really don’t need.

2. Does Your System Have a Backup?

Security systems work by sending a signal to the monitoring service, alerting them that they need to send a call to the proper authorities. If there is an issue with your alarm system or it is tampered with, you need to have a backup system so that you are still protected without interruptions to your service. If your alarm uses a landline, it is imperative that your provider offer a cellular backup, which will work in the event that your landline is cut.

3. Don’t Settle for Outdated Systems

Always make sure that with your installation you are being given the newest and most up-to-date system available from your provider. Systems with out-of-date technology are often easier for burglars and intruders to disarm and get around.  Having the newest system helps increase your safety. Also ensure that when updates are available, a technician can be sent within a few days to install the new technology.

4. It Fits Your Lifestyle

Do not install a system just because the commercials look “neat.” Make sure that you are picking a system that fits your lifestyle and your needs. That includes not only picking the correct provider but also choosing a system that fits your life the best. This means choosing between cellular, wired, wireless, and more.

While some require a landline, others require an internet connection. To make sure you get technology that will fit your current lifestyle, research each system and provider in depth before purchasing. This way you can know right off the bat what you can and cannot do when it comes to the type of system, price, and installation.

5. Go With a Reputable Provider

Make sure you are putting your safety into the hands of a company that you can trust and that is reliable 24/7. Find a provider that does constant monitoring and that has a staff member looking over your home no matter what time of day or night. There’s a reason that big national companies are popular. Some of the household names that should be making your shortlist include:

  • ADT
  • SimpliSafe
  • FrontPoint
  • Brinks
  • Protect America

Home Security Services You Can Expect From Your Provider

There are numerous providers that can help keep you safe. When picking your provider it is imperative that they offer you the following services:

Clear Pricing

Remember, it’s not just about your safety but about profits for many companies. Reputable providers are upfront about their costs and should not include hidden fees.  Some providers will try to talk you into a more expensive system or even lengthy contracts with hard selling tactics.  However, if they are clear about their prices you should be able to see through these scare tactics and purchase the technology that will protect you and fit your budget. Simply read the fine print, go over all the aspects of the contract with your provider, and you won’t be getting locked into a contract you really can’t afford or worse, really don’t need.

Proper Monitoring

When choosing a provider you need to opt for a company with a reliable monitoring system. Many large-scale, popular providers have staff members working around the clock for monitoring purposes. However, smaller providers may need to outsource this task to a larger facility in order to make things easier for them. Always ask who is monitoring your system and how often. This is often key to knowing how reliable your provider and systems will be.

Home Security Integration

The home security market is ever-changing and almost seems to evolve daily. Nowadays, the top systems come with the ability to integrate with some of the devices currently in your home. This includes your small appliances, lights, temperature controls, and more. Many systems now allow you to control all of these things at the touch of a button, whether that be your phone, laptop, or wall control pad. With so many things controlled by one device, you can be sure that your home is completely secure and under your ultimate control.

Conclusion

Home security systems are meant to be that protective shield between your family and home against intruders. Always ensure that you are picking a system that not only fits your unique needs but also a trustworthy company and fits whatever budget you may have. At the end of the day, your provider is supposed to make your home safer for you and your family without adding frustration. You need to find a provider you feel comfortable with and be able to put your trust in.

Here’s Why You Need To Buy a Walk-In Tub

Nothing compares to the relaxation that a soothing hot bath can provide at the end of a long day.

Unfortunately, for some people, it has become increasingly difficult to enjoy this simple luxury.

There should be a major concern for bathroom safety if you or a loved one struggles to climb in and out of the bathtub.

For others, bathing independently has become impossible. This is not only majorly stressful, but it can lead to a number of other medical complications if proper care is not provided.

Worst of all is the fact that unintentional falls account for over 19,000 deaths every year.

Shockingly, bathroom-related accident from slipping and falling sometimes leads to traumatic brain injury – the main cause of death in 45% of seniors. Falling in the bathtub can also cause:

  • Spinal cord injury
  • Broken and fractured bones
  • Head trauma
  • Complications to other medical conditions

The inability to bathe independently is the number one contributing factor towards being admitted into a care facility.

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The Walk-In Bathtub Solution

Safety is still the number 1 reason to consider a walk-in tub.

If you or someone you know tick any of the following boxes, a walk-in bathtub may be a great necessity for your home:

  • Permanently disabled
  • Difficulty showering, bathing, and cleaning yourself.
  • Difficulty standing for longer than 2 minutes.
  • Have a history of falling, fainting, dizziness, or vertigo.
  • Have suffered a crippling injury to your legs, back, ankles or neck.
  • Unable to step over the edge of a conventional bathtub.
  • Suffer from chronic muscle or joint pains, causing reduced mobility.
  • Love the idea of taking a long, deep, luxurious, therapeutic soak in the tub.

Walk-in bathtubs have offered a real solution to bathroom calamities, and they are now produced for hospitals, nursing facilities, and private residences.

Walk-in tubs offer a host of features that promote safety, accessibility, and independence.  Here are some of the features you can expect to find once you install a walk-in tub from one of America’s leading suppliers.

  1. Non-slip surfaces will eliminate the chance of slipping and falling.
  2. Built-in safety grab bars mean you won’t lose your balance when entering and exiting.
  3. Anti-scald technology makes sure the water will never be too hot.
  4. Hydro and air massage jets will help gently ease away muscle and joint pain.
  5. Low threshold tub entry eliminates the act of clambering over slippery surfaces.
  6. American Disability Act and other certifications testify to the absolute safety and independence offered by a walk-in tub.

A walk-in tub allows your body to move at its own level of competence instead of forcing it to sit or lie in a standard tub.

You might get by with a standard bathtub you might even be able to get by with a little extra help from your family or friends but a walk-in bathtub can change your life forever!

hydrotherapy-tub

Walk-In Tub Features

The main features that vary among walk-in tubs include the door and size and direction it opens (inward/outward), the inner bench seat, the inclusion of faucets, and various jetting options.

There is no significant difference between an inward or outward swinging door, but certain users may find that an outward swinging door has more space to make yourself comfortable before shutting the door. On the other hand, an outward swinging door can be opened faster in an emergency, even though it leads to flooding the bathroom floor. An inward-swinging door can not be opened until the tub water had drained.

Modern walk-in tubs feature far more safety features than a normal bathtub and include:
  • Safety grab-bars
  • Easy-to-reach controls
  • Anti-slip surfaces
  • Low step-in threshold
  • Fast draining technology
  • ADA compliant seating and more

Walk-in tubs aren’t just safe. They have real healing powers too.  Many come with added features to further enhance the therapeutic effects including hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, and aromatherapy capabilities.

The Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy can be a beneficial form of treatment for individuals with arthritic conditions, especially because it increases blood circulation. Increased circulation increases endorphins and strengthens the immune system, reducing inflammation, healing injured tissue, and improving overall well-being.

The increase in blood flow brought about by hot water also helps muscles relax, eliminating stress and pressure on the joints, thereby alleviating arthritic pain. When you are in the water, the gravitational forces on the body are reduced, improving joint mobility.

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The size of the walk-in tub is important because it needs to fit into the intended space. If possible, it should be able to comfortably accommodate the largest user in the home.

Many people enjoy the massage jet options of their walk-in tub. Both water jets and air massage jets are available, and some tubs provide both options.

If hydrotherapy and aromatherapy will be beneficial for the tub user, make sure those jetting options are included with the tub.

On the other hand, if the price is a concern for you, eliminating some of these extra features can significantly cut down on costs.

Conclusion

Walk-in tubs are more than just a luxury that offers a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home.

If or someone you know suffers from limited mobility, a walk-in tub can offer a real solution. With standard safety features that allow for easy access and safe operation.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

Going green can be somewhat of a daunting task, especially if you are trying to figure out just how many solar panels you need to meet your electric requirements.

Although you can hire a professional to work this out for you, it’s completely possible to do it yourself following these few easy steps.

How to Calculate The Number of Solar Panels You Need

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Electrical usage is measured in kilowatts per hour (kWh). Knowing this, your average daily electricity usage can be used to figure out how many solar panels you actually need.

So, for example, if you use 1 kWh of electricity per day, your solar panels must be able to collect 1 kilowatt of solar energy per day in order to address 100% of your energy needs.

Here’s how you do it: 

  1. Collect all your electric bills from the past 12 months and add them up.
  2. Take this total and divide it by 12 to get your average kWh used per month.
  3. Then, take your average monthly kWh and divide it by 30, the average days in a month. The total you get will give you a number for your average daily electrical usage in kWh.
  4. Now, take your daily electrical usage and divide it by the average amount of sunlight your roof receives per day. This number equates to the number of kilowatts your system needs to produce every hour to cover your electric requirements.
  5. Finally, take this number and divide it by the wattage of the solar panels you intend to purchase.

dusty-solar-panelThe answer you get will be the number of solar panels you require to meet your energy needs.

Now let’s try this calculation with some real numbers so it makes a little more sense…

Say you collect your bills and the total usage over 12 months equates to 9600kWh, dividing this by 12 gives you the monthly average of 800kWh for your home. Dividing this amount by 30, the average days per month gives you a total of 26.67kWh per day.

You now need to divide this number again by the average amount of sunlight hours your panels receive per day. Let’s make it 5 hours per day, just to be conservative.

So, assuming you have used 9600kWh over the last 12 months, the calculations will look as follows:

  • 9600 kWh  ÷ 12 = 800 kWh per month
  • 800 kWh ÷ 30 = 26.7 kWh per day
  • 26.7 kWh  ÷ 5 (hours of sunlight per day) = 5.34 kWh

You have now established how much electricity your solar panels need to generate every hour to cover 100% of your needs. To finally work out how many panels you require, you need to decide what wattage of solar panels you are going to use.

Assuming you are installing 200-watt (0.2 kW) panels, your calculation looks as follows:

  • 5.34 kW ÷ 0.2 = 26.7 panels ( rounded up to 27 )

If you are opting for 250-watt (0.25 kW) panels, your calculation looks as follows:

  • 5.34 kW ÷ 0.25 = 21.6 panels ( rounds up to 22 panels )

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What If I Don’t Want To Cover 100% Of My Needs?

You may not want your solar panels to cover 100% of your electrical consumption in a day, and that’s just fine.

All this means is that you have a little more math to do…

Taking the numbers from the above calculation into consideration, decide just how much you actually want to settle for. Let’s say you only want solar power to account for 70% of your requirements, you now take that 26.7 kWh and multiply it by 70%.

With 250-watt panels, the actual calculations will look like this:

  • 26.7 kWh per day x 0.70 = 18.69 kWh
  • 18.69 kWh ÷ 5 (hours of sunlight per day) = 3.74 kWh
  • 3.74 kWh ÷ 0.25 ( 250-watt panels) = 14.96 panels ( rounds up to 15 panels )

Again, this is a really simple calculation you can use to give you an approximate number of solar panels, but keep in mind that the solar panel’s efficiency rating and size have not been included in this scenario, and it may affect this number slightly. 

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Why Should You Calculate Solar Panel Count?

Yes, it’s no secret that a contractor will also be able to tell you what the exact number of solar panels is that you may need.

Why should you then even try to get this number when the professional can do it for you?

The answer is quite simple, really. Understanding.

Calculating the approximate number of the panels makes the entire process easier. With this number, you will gain a better understanding of the solar project as a whole, and you will be able to create a budget and an approximate timetable around it too.

This will make the entire process easier once you start dealing with contractors.

So, once the number of solar panels has been calculated, you will still need to compare as many quotes as possible in order for you to establish which deal will suit your budget best.

You can start right now by entering your zip in the area provided. Doing so will allow you to receive up to four, 100% FREE, no-obligation solar estimates from certified solar panel dealers in your area.