Las Vegas Lawn Care Tips

It takes a lot of water to keep grass green in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is located just about in the middle of the Mojave desert. Although the city was founded because of its proximity to fresh water springs, those springs have dried up, and finding new sources of water for the valley's residents is a challenge for its leaders. Because of this, the Las Vegas Valley Water District places restrictions on water use. Some residents, finding it hard to give up the lush, green lawns they've grown in other parts of the country, still plant grass and pay dearly for the water and labor needed to maintain it. Does this Spark an idea?

Watering

Decreasing your watering time by just one minute can lower the amount of water used by 25 percent, according to irrigation specialists at the Las Vegas Valley Water District. It's easy to measure how much water is being supplied to the lawn during a routine irrigation. Place six empty soup or other cans in random areas of the lawn and run the sprinklers for 10 minutes. Pour the contents of all the cans into a large coffee or other can. Use a ruler to measure how much water is in the can. This number indicates the inches of water per hour your sprinklers provide.

Water requirements vary, depending upon turf species and soil type. A general rule is 1 inch of water a week, up to 2 inches in very hot weather. Water the Las Vegas lawn as early in the morning as possible, preferably before sunrise, in the summer. While even early morning hours in the valley can be hot in the summer, the hottest part of the day is in the evening. Additionally, water restrictions prohibit irrigation between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. from May 1 to October 1. Determine how long you need to run your sprinklers to supply the necessary amount of water and break that time into thirds. Water the lawn in three cycles, with one hour between cycles, according to the Las Vegas Valley Water District. Remember to water only on your assigned watering days.

Cut back the amount of water you supply in the winter and change the schedule so that the lawn is watered during the day. Nighttime watering may cause ice to form on the sidewalks and other walkways.

Fertilizing and Weeding

Fertilizer burn is a common problem in Las Vegas, especially for new residents. It occurs when the lawn is fertilized during the hottest part of the day. In the Las Vegas valley, in the summer, the weather doesn't cool off, even in the middle of the night, so summer fertilization should not be attempted. Use a slow-release fertilizer, at the rate recommended on the package, and apply it in May and then again in early December. Use a fertilizer high in potassium and nitrogen in December. Always water deeply after fertilizing.

Crabgrass and spotted spurge are particularly pesky in Las Vegas lawns. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide, according to the rate and instructions on the label, during the first week of February and again six weeks later.

Mowing

Mow your lawn high. Taller grass grows longer roots, making the turf more drought-tolerant. Recommended mowing heights are 2 1/2 inches to 3 inches if you are growing tall fescue and 3/4 inch to 1 1/2 inches for Bermuda grass. Grass can be mowed shorter during the winter months to help it thicken. Change the pattern every time you mow. If you mow in north to south strips one time, mow in east to west strips during the subsequent mowing session.

Tags: amount water, Valley Water, Valley Water District, Vegas Valley, Vegas Valley Water, Water District, early morning

Use Roth Ira To Buy A House

A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account that allows investors who meet the specific requirements to withdraw their earnings free of tax. Though investors do not receive tax deductions when they contribute to the account, they do avoid being taxed upon withdrawal. Normally, a 10% early-withdrawal penalty is enforced if funds are drawn upon before age 59 1/2, but there is an exception for first-time home buyers.

Instructions

1. Open a Roth IRA. One can do this by selecting a broker to assist with transactions. When an investor is ready to open an account, the broker will usually point him to an online application to fill out. Normally applicants will have to print out a page, sign it and mail it in with the first deposit check. Once the account is established, the broker may set up electronic fund transfers so the investor can regularly contribute without having to mail in a check each month.

2. According to Roy Lewis of the Motley Fool, after the account has been open for five years, a first-time home buyer can withdraw from a Roth IRA for the purchase of a home. This withdrawal is considered a qualified distribution, and will not be subject to penalties or income tax.

3. The IRS allows first-time a home buyer to draw up to $10,000 from his Roth IRA to buy a house. This is a one-time allowance that can be applied to one Roth IRA account only. After the $10,000 has been withdrawn for this purpose, there is not a second chance.

4. The $10,000 limit applies to one person and one Roth IRA account. If a couple wishes to buy a house together, the law is vague enough to allow each of individual to withdraw $10,000 from separate Roth IRA accounts to put toward the home purchase, according to Lewis.

5. In order to avoid penalties, the $10,000 qualified distribution must be applied toward qualified acquisition expenses, i.e. building or buying a house, closing costs or finance costs. Payments toward the mortgage loan, home furnishings or repair do not count as qualified acquisition expenses, and will be subject to penalties and taxes.

Tags: first-time home, acquisition expenses, first-time home buyer, from Roth, home buyer, qualified acquisition, qualified acquisition expenses

Can Wood Stoves Be Installed In Mobile Homes

Wood stoves work in a variety of environments.

Mobile homes are assembled in a factory rather than built on your property, but use most of the same heating systems as normal homes. Wood stoves offer an alternative to gas or electric heating that saves money for homeowners who can cut their own wood. If you live in a mobile home and you'd like to add a wood stove, first consider the extra safety precautions you must take. Does this Spark an idea?

Restricted Areas

Installing a wood stove in the kitchen, living room or even bathroom of a mobile home is permissible, says the Woodstock Soapstone Company, but you can't install one in a bedroom. Bedrooms are full of highly flammable materials that are too susceptible to catching on fire from an errant spark. Clothing, bedding and mattresses will likely be within 5 feet of a wood stove, because bedrooms in mobile homes rarely have enough clearance for both furniture and a wood-burning appliance.

Special Stove Pipe

All wood stoves, regardless of where they are installed, require properly sized stove pipe for ventilation. This is even more important in a mobile home. Mobile home wood-stove installations require a special close- clearance pipe that dissipates heat before it reaches the walls it is installed near, according to the Walden Effect. This prevents the thinner walls of the home from being damaged by the intense heat that is vented through the stove pipe.

Wall Clearance

A wood stove needs to be a certain distance away from the walls in your mobile home to prevent heat damage from the sides or back of the appliance. There needs to be 36 inches between any part of the wood stove and the wall, says My Great Home. Installing heat-resistant materials over the walls around the heater may lower this clearance, but these materials must be ventilated panels approved for use around a wood stove.

Floor Tie-Downs

Mobile homes are more likely to shift and move than homes built on permanent foundations. To prevent a dangerous fire from occurring, wood stove legs must be attached to the floor below the hearth in a mobile home, according to "Mother Earth News." This makes installation difficult, especially if you are trying to install over a stone or concrete hearth from a preexisting fireplace. Using long screws that run through the hearth and reach the sub-floor is a common way to anchor the appliance in an existing hearth.

Fresh Air Intake

Any kind of combustion, including the fire producing heat in your wood stove, requires fresh air to fuel it with a supply of oxygen. Mobile homes are constructed with fewer gaps that leak air into the home than traditionally built homes. For safety a length of stove pipe should be run to the air damper inlet or similar opening on the back of the wood stove. This prevents dangerous carbon monoxide levels inside your mobile home while keeping the fire well-fueled.

Tags: wood stove, mobile home, fire from, Mobile homes, stove pipe, This prevents

What Do You Use To Clean A Flat Screen Tv

Flat-screen TVs are much more delicate than traditional sets.

Flat-screen TVs can collect dirt and fingerprints, which can affect the quality of the TV picture. However, using conventional cleaners can actually ruin your TV, given that the screen is made of plastics that are sensitive to chemicals. However, excessive dust can also cause damage to your TV if it gets inside the internal components. Dust can hinder air circulation and cause the flat-screen TV to overheat. Does this Spark an idea?

Plasma TV

When cleaning a plasma TV, use a soft cloth dampened in lukewarm water. The softest cloths use microfiber, chamois or pure cotton. Abrasive cloths will scratch the screen. If the plasma TV needs heavy cleaning, you can use some mild soap to work off the dirt. Stronger cleaning agents, however, can strip off the protective coating.

LCD

LCD flat panels are vulnerable to moisture, but you need some water to get them clean. Use a very slightly damp soft cloth, and then immediately dry the screen with a dry soft cloth. Press very gently while cleaning; do not use any household cleaning products, which can damage the screen. Avoid using paper-based products, since they will scratch the screen. Also, paper towels and other products can leave behind lint on the screen. When you're spraying the screen, do not spray continuously if you cannot get the spots off the TV; instead, spray, wipe, dry and spray again, in this cycle, until the spot comes off.

Special Cleaning Products

You can find products that are specially formulated to clean flat-screen TVs. Gels work better as cleaners than liquids, because the gels will not accidentally seep into the internal parts of the TV, which can cause damage. If you're not sure if you can use a particular cleaner on your TV, consult the owner's manual. Some cleaning cloths work especially well with flat-screen TVs because they do not produce any lint or static, and the soft texture won't scratch the screen. Anti-static brushes also can safely remove dirt when using the gel.

General Safety

Always disconnect the TV from the power source before cleaning it. This practice is not only safer, but will also let you see the smudges and dirt on the screen. Do not push too hard when cleaning the TV or you'll damage the plastic. Perform regular cleaning on your TV so that you don't have to use more force to remove debris.

Dust

Dust can get inside the flat-screen TV, leading to an electrical short and possibly causing other malfunctions. You must especially wipe off any dust that gets on vents or other openings on the TV, where air circulates for cooling purposes. Reduce maintenance time by buying a TV cover made only out of microfiber, which is soft on the screen. Other covers, like vinyl and polyvinyl chloride plastic can cause screen damage.

Tags: scratch screen, soft cloth, cause damage, will scratch, will scratch screen

Common Home Stereo Amplifier Problems

Amps can overheat or develop connection difficulties.

Home stereo amplifiers have a simple job: they take incoming audio signals and boost them before sending the signals on to the speakers. By boosting the signals, the amp is able to improve overall sound quality and allow for a greater range in volume. However, home stereo amps have to work with at least two speakers and often multiple sources of signals, which can create some problems in signal transition and amplifier operation. Does this Spark an idea?

Connections

With so many connections in home stereo and theater systems, it's highly common to find loose, wrong or faulty connections with amps. Loose connections simply distort the sound or cause it to fade in and out. This can be repaired by reattaching the cables. Cables plugged into the wrong ports on the amp or speaker wires set up on the wrong terminals produce poor sound quality or no sound to at least one speaker. Faulty connections are caused by problems with the cables themselves, which need to be replaced.

Overheating

As amps work, they generate a lot of heat. This heat is blown out of the amp with a fan system that circulates the air into surrounding areas. Unfortunately, amps are often located in the back of stereo shelves or home theater compartments where there is no place for that air to go. As a result, the amp overheats, causing damage to its systems and any nearby devices, drastically shortening its lifespan.

Humming

Some homeowners believe that an amp corrects any signal distortion that occurs before the signal reaches the amp. This is not true. The amp only amplifies the distortion itself, making a humming sound that occurs on 50 or 60 hertz wavelengths even more noticeable. To solve this problem, owners must place an isolator somewhere before the signal reaches the amp.

Fuse Problems

At times, amps can suddenly die, refusing to work and sometimes not even turning on. This often means that a fuse inside the amp has blown. These small fuses do not blow as often as fuses in other systems, but unsteady electrical currents and overuse can still cause fuse failure. In most cases homeowners should be able to replace the fuse and continue using the amp.

Tags: before signal, before signal reaches, home stereo, signal reaches, sound quality

Government Grants For New Homeowners

Government grants can help Americans realize their dream of owning a home.

Federal and state governments offer various kinds of assistance to new homeowners. With a little research, you can find out whether you qualify for grants or other assistance. Although there are several websites and companies that sell lists of government grants, all the information is available for free on government sites.

Homeownership Voucher

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a number of grants to promote community development. They also offer some housing assistance for private families or individuals. One such program is the Homeownership Voucher Program. This is only offered in certain states, and applicants must be first-time home buyers and must meet income and employment requirements. The voucher program helps cover part of mortgage or rent for eligible families. To see if it is available in your area, contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) (see Resources).

Good Neighbor Next Door

Through the Good Neighbor Next Door Program, HUD offers a 50 percent discount to law enforcement officers, teachers, EMTs, and firefighters who purchase a home from HUD in a revitalization area. If you purchase a home through this program, it must be your sole residence for 36 months or you will have to repay the discount.

PHA Capital Funds Assistance

Under the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA), a local PHA can sell public housing rental units to eligible residents. These residents may also qualify for federal grants, distributed through the PHA, to help them purchase their home.

Disaster Assistance

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assists individuals with housing and necessary expenses through the Individuals and Households Program (IHP). To qualify, the President must declare a disaster and authorize individual assistance, and your primary residence must be in the disaster area. You can register for the program online, on the phone by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or at a disaster shelter.

State Grants

Some states offer individual grants or other assistance to first-time home buyers. For example, as of 2010, the Iowa Finance Authority offers "FirstHome" and "FirstHome Plus" programs. FirstHome is a state-sponsored, fixed-rate mortgage for qualified first-time home buyers, and the plus program includes a grant of up to $2,500 to help with the down paymment, closing costs, and repairs. (See Resources for a list of state sites and current information on grants they offer.)

Loans, Counseling, and Other Assistance

If you don't qualify for a federal or state grant, the government can still help you with your first home purchase. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers mortgage insurance and free counseling to first-time home buyers.

Tags: first-time home, first-time home buyers, home buyers, Good Neighbor, Good Neighbor Next, grants other, grants other assistance

Repair A Small Hole In A Roof

If your house has a hole in the roof, it is paramount that you attend to it immediately. Unless the hole is patched, rainwater can seep into the roof and damage the insulation and interior ceiling. A hole is also an entryway for bugs and small rodents, each of which will nest in the roof. You don't need to be a master roofer or have extensive contracting experience to fix a hole in your roof, but you will need some specific tools and materials. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place a ladder against your house.

2. Put gloves, a claw hammer, felt, a utility knife, a mop, roofing nails and shingles in a bucket. Tie one rope to the bucket and tie another rope to a bucket of tar.

3. Climb the ladder, holding the free ends of both ropes. Pull up both buckets once you're on the roof and put on the gloves. Empty the bucket of materials.

4. Pull up the old damaged shingle where the hole is located, using a claw hammer. Pull out any old nails as well and toss them in the empty bucket. Next, pull up the old felt, using a utility knife to cut into it and around the hole.

5. Cover the hole by pouring tar over it, and put a section of new felt down over the hole. Nail the felt to the roof with the hammer, then pour tar over the felt. If the tar is too thick to pour, use the mop.

6. Nail new shingles over the felt/tar patch, using a hammer and roofing nails. The small hole in your roof is now sufficiently patched.

7. Put the materials back in the empty bucket and lower it to the ground, then lower the tar bucket to the ground.

Tags: claw hammer, hole your, hole your roof, over felt, roofing nails

Reduce Swelling And Bruising After Mohs Surgery

Mohs Surgery treats skin cancer by removing as little tissue as possible.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a specialized surgery commonly used to remove skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma, on the face, head and neck. After a surgeon removes all traces of the skin cancer the skin is sutured back together or the wound repaired with a skin graft or skin flap. Because most patients return home right after the Mohs surgery is complete, it's up to the individual patient to treat swelling and bruising at home.

Instructions

1. Apply an ice pack to the surgical site 10 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours. Wrap the ice pack in a clean towel then place it directly over any pressure bandages or other sterile bandages your surgeon has placed over the incision. Cold from the ice pack helps reduce both swelling and any bruising that may result.

2. Elevate your head or neck above your heart. Use a few pillows when sleeping to keep your body and head propped up. If your surgical site begins to throb or hurt when you lay down, add another pillow to the stack to elevate your head further.

3. Remain sitting and upright as much as possible. Avoid bending over to pick up objects off the floor or to tie your shoes. If you need something from below, bend at the knees to keep your head above your heart. Ask others to help get objects located on lower shelves or the floor.

4. Rest as much as possible. Avoid strenuous activities that raise your heart rate to allow your incision time to heal.

5. Take Acetaminophen or a doctor-prescribed pain medication specific to your Mohs surgery to reduce discomfort.

Tags: skin cancer, your head, your heart, above your, above your heart, cell carcinoma

Repair Broken Glass Items

Broken glass items can be repaired with specialty epoxy glue.

As heartbreaking as it is to have a treasured piece of glass break, know that you have the potential to fix the piece yourself. Glass is susceptible to breakage if dropped onto a hard surface or bumped into, but as long as your item is not shattered into a bunch of little pieces, you have the ability to join the dislocated parts together to make them whole again. Repair your broken glass items using a powerful adhesive designed for glass and a few household supplies. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the broken glass and the epoxy glue.

2. Wash the damaged glass pieces in warm, soapy water making sure to remove any debris. Allow the glass to dry. Cleansing the glass item ensures that the adhesive sets properly.

3. Open the epoxy glue bottle and gently squeeze a little bit onto a paper plate. The amount of epoxy you release needs to be enough to cover just one side of the damaged piece.

4. Mix the two parts of the epoxy thoroughly with a toothpick. Dip the toothpick into the glue and then spread it over one side of the broken portion. Make sure to completely cover the area.

5. Join the broken pieces and press them together gently. Be sure to hold them as long as your epoxy container specifies.

6. Set the glass aside to allow the glue to dry. Epoxy generally takes 24 hours to cure, but you should check the glue container to verify how long your brand takes.

Tags: epoxy glue, long your, broken glass, glass items

Electric Central Heat Conservation Tips

Implementing home heating conservation tips can save you money on your utility bills.

An electric central heating system delivers heat to a home. It has three primary components--the heater (heat pump, boiler or furnace), air duct system and the thermostat. Although electric heating units generally are considered an energy-efficient way to generate heat compared to oil and gas units, homeowners can employ certain tips to conserve more energy and save money on utility costs. Does this Spark an idea?

Insulate Your Home

Insulating your home is an important measure to conserve heat and reduce energy costs. This is true whether your central heating system produces heat from a heat pump, furnace or boiler. Insulating a home prevents hot air from being quickly lost to the attic or crawl space above as it rises, which can make a room temperature feel cooler. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends adding insulation to existing insulated areas, like the attic, and putting insulation over a garage, crawl space or behind a wall that leads to the attic--places that may not benefit from insulation now--to reduce home heating bills.

Lower the Thermostat

A higher thermostat setting leads to higher heating bills. The recommended temperature setting is 70 degrees for daytime and slightly cooler for nighttime during the winter. Atmos Energy Co. claims that for every degree above 70 degrees, a homeowner pays 4 to 6 percent more in heating costs. It also recommends lowering the thermostat to 55 degrees if you plan on being away for an extended period to conserve energy.

Seal Leaky Air Ducts

An electric central heating system transports heat throughout a home through a system of air ducts. Although the system is generally designed well, a leak can occur anywhere along the air duct system, especially at its joints. When a leak occurs, it allows hot air to escape into the attic and crawl space, making the house cooler. Conserve heat by inspecting your air ducts for possible leaks or hiring a heating repair technician to do it. If you detect a leak, seal it with foil-faced tape or duct tape.

Replace or Clean Filter

Most central heating systems have air filters that prevent dust and debris from entering the home. Yet these filters can become clogged over time, which restricts air flow and causes the heater to work harder. Replace a disposable filter or clean a reusable one about every three months and sometimes less during winter months to keep the system functioning efficiently. Atmos Energy Co. states that you can save 5 percent in energy costs just by keeping your filter clean.

Tags: central heating, central heating system, crawl space, heating system, Atmos Energy, attic crawl

Get A Free Home Makeover

Get a Free Home Makeover

Perhaps you know the scenario: A crew of contractors descends on a family living in a dilapidated home with mix-matched d cor. Just a few days later, workers help reveal the completely made-over home to the excited family who live in it. Have you ever wondered how you could become the recipient of a free home makeover? Follow a few steps to reveal numerous opportunities to apply to receive a free home makeover. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Watch home makeover shows on networks such as HGTV, Style, Fine Living, TLC or DIY. Makeover shows on these networks often look to their viewers to volunteer for makeovers. Decide which of the shows you would like to try to appear on. In some cases, your home or family may need to fit certain criteria to qualify for the makeover.

2. Visit the website of the shows that you have an interest in participating in. They sometimes publish casting calls. Consult websites such as "Audition Free" to find out about casting calls and auditions for home renovation shows that offer free makeovers. Check for postings about casting calls at home improvement stores in your area. Producers know that homeowners who need work done on their home visit these stores frequently to get estimates or home renovation and decoration ideas.

3. Download rules, eligibility information and application forms for the shows that you have interest in. Examine the rules and eligibility well to determine if the show fits your needs before filling out the application form.

4. Follow the directions carefully when filling out the application form. Attach any necessary information show producers request, such as photos or video of your family, copies of social security cards, birth certificates and information about your criminal and credit background or financial obligations. Send the application in.

Tags: casting calls, home makeover, shows that, about casting, about casting calls

Fix The Muffler On A Briggs & Stratton Engine

Fix the muffler on your Briggs & Stratton engine.

If while running your Briggs & Stratton engine you notice it is getting unusually loud, there is most likely a problem with the muffler. The muffler is full of chambers that route the exhaust out of the engine. Filtering devices in the chambers clean the exhaust and provide back-pressure for the engine. The chambers also decrease the blowing exhaust sound. Over time the muffler can crack or the gasket between the muffler and the engine block can deteriorate. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Allow the Briggs & Stratton engine to cool for several hours before working with the muffler as it can get very hot.

2. Locate the muffler on the side of the engine block. The muffler is bolted to the exhaust port via two bolts.

3. Unscrew the two bolts with the proper sized wrenches. Pull the muffler off. Peel the exhaust port gasket off.

4. Inspect the muffler for cracks. The cracks defeat the purpose of the muffler so you should buy a new one as they only cost around $10.

5. Place the new exhaust-port gasket over the exhaust port on the engine block. Place the muffler over the gasket. Tighten the muffler into place.

Tags: Briggs Stratton, Briggs Stratton engine, engine block, exhaust port, Stratton engine, your Briggs Stratton, with muffler

Get Scratches Out Of Glass Windows

Repair glass window scratches to bring back your crystal-clear view.

If you ever look out your window and realize that there is a scratch affecting your view, do not panic. In many cases, you can repair the scratch to the point where it is no longer noticeable. With a few supplies from the grocery store, you might be able to remedy the issue if you are willing to put in the effort. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Spread on some toothpaste over the scratch. Do not use a gel paste. Let it dry for about 30 minutes, so that it gets hard.

2. Wipe the window with a soft cloth, such as a cloth diaper. Once most of the toothpaste is off, wipe back and forth in one direction to buff the scratch. If it is still there, then it was too deep and you need to try another method.

3. Mix ground mustard with vinegar to form a paste. It doesn't take a lot of vinegar to create the paste. Spread this on the scratch and let it dry.

4. Wipe the scratch area and buff as before. If this doesn't remove the scratch, use cerium oxide. You can pick this up from a jeweler. Make a thin paste with water and spread it on a buffing pad attachment that will fit on your drill. Buff the glass with the mixture to remove the scratch.

Tags: remove scratch

Obtain A Business License In Texas

As an entrepreneur, there are a number of steps you will need to take in order to get your business up and running. While there isn't an official business license for the state of Texas, depending on the type of business you will operate in Texas, you may need to get a number of licenses and permits.

Instructions

1. Determine what type of business structure you will have. The LLC may offer a number of tax advantages. If you opt to form an LLC, download and fill out Form 205 from the Texas Secretary of State website (see Resources). Mail your form and $300 (the fee for forming an LLC) to P.O. Box 13697, Austin, Texas 78711-3697.

2. Get your federal tax ID number or employer identification number (EIN). Apply online at IRS.gov (see Resources).

3. Apply for your Texas sales tax permit (see Resources). Download a Form AP-201, fill it out and submit it to your local Texas Comptroller's office or mail it to their main office: Comptroller of Public Accounts, 111 E. 17th St, Austin, Texas, 78874-0100. Or, call (512) 463-4600 or (800) 252-5555.

4. Familiarize yourself with your responsibilities as an employer and your projected tax liability for payroll taxes, federal unemployment tax (FUTA) and state unemployment tax (SUTA). Then, register with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Call (512) 463-2747 for help.

5. Visit the Official Portal of Texas (see Resources) to determine if you need to get any additional business licenses for the type of services or products you intend to sell. For example, if you intend to sell alcohol, tobacco or food in Texas, you will need additional licenses.

Tags: Austin Texas, intend sell, need additional, type business, will need

Find Free Or Low Cost Auto Body Repair

Your car got in a fender-bender. Now you need to find free or low-cost auto body repair to get your ride looking like new again. This is fairly easy if you use a little ingenuity and make a few phone calls to find repair services or training.

Instructions

1. Call or visit a local vocational school that teaches auto body repair. (See resources.) The instructors often will allow their students to perform the work to gain experience. Usually, you only pay for the parts and materials used.

2. Call a family member, neighbor, friend or business associate who owns an auto body repair shop. You may be able to barter for free services. For example, offer to let them take before and after pictures to use for advertising purposes.

3. Start a career in auto body repair. Find a training center (see resources) you can attend to learn the trade. You can then fix your own car at little cost or even for free.

4. Ask around to find a low-cost backyard mechanic to fix minor damage such as dents and dings or replace the necessary parts.

5. Locate a major auto body repair chain or franchise. These places often offer specials and deals.

Tags: body repair, auto body, auto body repair

Get Rid Of A Musty Smell Under The House

Get Rid of a Musty Smell Under the House

Mildew can grow on many types of surfaces. It is can grow white or a blueish-green color. You may find mildew in your bathroom, under the paint in your hall closets, in your basement and even under your house. Mildew needs moisture to survive. You can use this information to get rid of the mildew. Once the mildew is gone, you will no longer have that horrid mildew odor. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Open the crawl space doors to allow ventilation under the house. Drying the area out is key in getting rid of mildew.

2. Go under the house with a moisture sensor. This device will tell you where the highest levels of moisture are under your home. It will help you locate the spot where the mildew is.

3. Spray anti-microbial spray on the mildew. This will kill the mildew so that it goes away. You will still need to deal with moisture issue, or the mildew will return later on.

4. Place some moisture-absorbing silica gel into a few containers. Do not put lids on the containers. Set the containers under the house. The gel will dry out the air under the house so that the mildew does not have a chance to grow back.

5. Sprinkle chloride of lime under the house once you have gotten rid of the mildew and the moisture causing the mildew. The chloride of lime will get rid of any lingering odors.

Tags: under house, chloride lime, Musty Smell, Musty Smell Under, Smell Under, Smell Under House, under your

Recover Factory Settings On Sony Vaio Computer With Windows 7

Access recovery software using the recovery disc.

Recover your factory settings if you run into problems with your Sony Vaio computer running the Windows 7 operating system. Recovering the factory settings will resolve problems with missing system file that have made your operating system unstable. Recovering the computer's factory settings will also permanently remove any viruses that have become buried on the computer's hard drive. You can access the recovery program from within Windows 7, while booting up your computer or using the recovery discs.

Instructions

Recover From Within Windows 7

1. Click the "Start" icon in the lower-left corner of the screen and click "All Programs." Click "VAIO Care" then click "VAIO Care" again. The VAIO Care program will open.

2. Click "Recovery & restore" on the left side of the VAIO Care window, then click "Recovery." Click "Recovery Computer" on the right side of the program window.

3. Click "Yes" to verify that you are aware the computer will be recovered to its original factory settings and that all of your personal files and programs will be erased. The computer will restart and the recovery process will begin. When the process is finished, the computer will restart again and boot up to the Windows 7 setup screen.

Recover Using Recovery Partition

4. Turn on or restart your Sony Vaio computer.

5. Press the "F10" key repeatedly when the Vaio logo appears on the screen during the boot process to be redirected to the Boot Options menu on your machine. If the Boot Options menu does not appear by the time the Windows logo appears on your screen, let the computer finish booting up, then restart the computer and try again.

6. Highlight "VAIO Recovery Environment" in your Boot Options menu and press "Enter." The VAIO Care program will appear on your screen. Follow steps 2 and 3 in Section 1 to recover your Sony Vaio computer with Windows 7 to its original factory settings.

Recovery Using Recovery Discs

7. Insert the first recovery disc in your optical drive and restart your Sony Vaio computer. The total number of recovery discs varies based on your Sony Vaio computer. The Boot Options menu will appear on your screen. Highlight "Start Sony VAIO Care Rescue" using the arrow keys on the keyboard and press "Enter." The "VAIO Care Rescue" program will appear on the screen.

8. Click "Tools," then click "Start advanced recovery wizard." In the "Do you need to rescue your data?" window, click "Skip rescue."

9. Click "Factory condition," then click "Next." Click "Yes, I'm sure" when asked if you want to proceed with the recovery knowing that all of your personal files and programs will be erased. Click "Start Recovery." Remove and insert the recovery discs as prompted by the computer.

10. Remove the final recovery disc and click "Restart" when a message appears on the screen informing you that the recovery is complete. The computer will boot up to the Windows 7 setup screen where you can begin personalizing your operating system.

Tags: VAIO Care, your Sony Vaio, Sony Vaio, your Sony, Boot Options, Boot Options menu, computer will

Suggestions For Glass Alternatives For Patio Table Replacement

A wooden patio table can give your yard a more natural look.

Many homeowners opt for glass tables for their patio or yard because they sport a sleek, modern look. Maintaining a glass patio table, however, can be difficult because they are prone to chipping, cracking or shattering and often require replacing. As a result, many homeowners chose to find an alternative to glass for their patio table. Fortunately, many options are available that fit a range of design preferences and budgets, and most are more durable than glass. Does this Spark an idea?

Wood

A wood table may be a good option if you would like to give your patio a more natural feel. The tables are available in a variety of woods, including teak, pine, cypress and cedar. Teak is often preferred for a patio table because it is resistant to weather and highly durable. In addition, unlike other table materials, wood does not absorb heat or cold, so it remains comfortable to the touch under most weather conditions. However, it is prone to fading over time, so it is a good idea to treat your wood patio table with a UV-filtering top coat or paint. Wood patio tables are easy to clean, however. They may be washed with soapy water and rubbed with oil to help them retain their original color.

Metal

For a more formal look, choose a metal patio table, which is an ideal option for locations that are prone to high winds because they are heavier and less likely to be blown around. You may purchase a patio table in a variety of metals, including steel and wrought iron. Metal tables are also highly durable and available in a wide array of designs. Like wood patio tables, they may be cleaned with soapy water. You should also treat your metal table with a protective finish to prevent rusting. Painted wrought iron tables should be touched up as soon as the coating begins to crack or chip to prevent rust as well.

Plastic

Plastic patio tables may be a good alternative to glass, particularly if you are on a budget. They are durable but lightweight, so they are easily rearranged and may often be stacked for convenient storage. Many plastic patio tables are made from recycled materials, which makes them an ideal option if you have environmental concerns. In addition, plastic tables may be rinsed with soap and water for easy cleaning. They may mildew in damp climates, however, so use cleansers that help prevent mildew.

Wicker

A wicker or rattan table may be a better fit for your decor if your home has a country feel to it. Wicker is lightweight, so it is easy to move and store. It is also available in a wide range of colors, which makes it easy to customize for your yard. Like plastic, it can mildew in wet climates, so it should be washed with a cleanser that discourages mildew growth. In addition, wicker tables require occasional dusting to maintain their appearance.

Tags: patio table, patio tables, because they, alternative glass, available wide

Buy A Foreclosed Mobile Home In Texas

A mobile home, or manufactured home, is built at a factory and should meet the Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, code, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Once purchased, a mobile home is moved to the buyer's site. In Texas, mobile homes are considered real property when attached to a permanent foundation. However, if the mobile home is not attached to a foundation, then it is classified as personal property. Buying a foreclosed mobile home in Texas requires research on the condition of the home and its financing.

Instructions

1. Locate a foreclosed mobile home by using the Texas Multiple Listing Service (MLS), through a real estate agent.. You can also check your local newspaper for the list of foreclosures. For instance, in Houston, the Houston Chronicle provides a list of current foreclosures in that area. Also, go to the clerk's office in the courthouse, since Texas law requires a mortgage company to file a foreclosure notice at least 21 days before the foreclosure sale. The clerk can provide you with a list of mobile homes in foreclosure.

2. View the foreclosed mobile home to assess whether there is any damage or if repairs are needed. Generally, the foreclosing mortgage company does not do any repairs or provide disclosures on the condition. Hire a home inspector from the area to inspect the mobile home. For example, locate an inspector in the Austin area by contacting the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce

3. Apply for a loan for the mobile home. Consider contacting the mortgage company that previously financed it. Oftentimes, they provide incentives for buyers, such as lower closing costs, since they have the title work and appraisal and sometimes a survey on file for the property. However, if a Real Estate Owned, or REO, company has the mobile home foreclosure for sale the paperwork may not be on file.

4. Compare rates by checking with local banks in Texas, such as Lone Star National Bank, United Central Bank or Patriot Bank, and mortgage brokers. Banks generally provide more financing options if the mobile home is classified as personal property, or not attached to the land and still titled as personal property, like an automobile. However, mortgage brokers are generally able to finance the mobile home at a lower rate if it is real property and set on permanent foundation with a deed.

5. Compose a contract stating the name of the mortgage company as the seller, your name as the buyer, the location of the mobile home, the price and any additional provisions, such as a title search. Using a Texas real estate agent may be beneficial when composing and negotiating an offer. An agent has knowledge regarding Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) forms, including the OP-H form requiring the seller to disclose the property condition. Visit the Texas Association of Realtors website for a list of agents.

6. Submit your offer to the mortgage company along with a pre-approval letter from the lender you choose. The company has the right to accept the offer, submit a counteroffer or deny your original offer. However, foreclosure companies are reluctant to pay expenses associated with the sale, such as repairs and closing costs, so avoid asking for excessive seller contributions.

7. Buy the mobile home by completing the loan process with the guidance of your lender and signing the loan documents. This includes the note and mortgage on the mobile home. In Texas, you must record the deed to the property in the local courthouse after the purchase to prove ownership.

Tags: mobile home, mobile home, mortgage company, personal property, classified personal, classified personal property

Help For Lowincome Families In Pennsylvania

Pennsylvanians can apply for government assistance online.

Today's economy has left many people needing financial help. Having to choose between paying a utility bill and putting food on the table is difficult, no matter what size your family is. Pennsylvanians can find help paying their rent, buying food and paying utility and phone bills through a number of assistance programs and local agencies and organizations.

Information

Knowing you cannot pay your bills is stressful. Not knowing where to turn is even worse. Connect211 is an online information and referral service for Pennsylvanians to find the help they need. This is a project of the United Way of Southeastern Pennsylvania and the Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children. Over 12,000 organizations are listed on Connect211, including health-care clinics, day-care providers, job-training programs and assistance offices where you can apply for financial assistance for household expenses and food assistance.

Types of Help

Assistance programs provide help with telephone bills, heating, food, health insurance, child care and rent. There are programs for seniors, the disabled, children and families with dependent children. Cash aid for qualifying households can help families buy food, pay the rent and secure affordable housing. Programs also exist that provide low- or no-cost health insurance, child care, reduce home energy expenses and provide meals to home-bound seniors.

Businesses and Organizations

Pennsylvania utility companies are required to provide Customer Assistance Programs that base a customer's utility bill on their monthly income or usage. Some of these programs also forgive overdue bills. Charitable assistance for energy bills is available through the Dollar Energy Hardship Fund, Philadelphia Utility Emergency Services Fund, Citizens Electric $1 Energy Fund, Operation Roundup and Operation Share. Verizon Pennsylvania offers four programs to help low-income households obtain or maintain telephone service in their home.

Food pantries and food banks provide free food to people in need. The Pennsylvania Association of Regional Food Banks, a nonprofit organization made up of food banks throughout the state, provides a list of county food assistance organizations. Meal Call is a volunteer organization serving most of Pennsylvania that helps Meals on Wheels and senior meal programs throughout the state get the word out about the services they provide. Catholic Charities of Pennsylvania provides help for families and individuals, regardless of their faith. Often they can assist with prescription medications, emergency aid, food, clothing and other essential needs. The United Way, Red Cross and Salvation Army provide emergency assistance as well.

State and Federal Programs

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides rental assistance for qualifying low-income families, the elderly and disabled through public housing, subsidized apartments and Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program administered at the state and local level by Community Action Agencies and other organizations. Grant payments are made to local utilities for qualifying households to reduce their utility bills. Pennsylvania's State Food Purchase Program provides cash grants to counties to buy food for distribution to low-income individuals. This program supplements the resources of soup kitchens, food pantries, feeding programs and homeless shelters. Food stamp benefits are available for qualifying households and individuals. You can apply for food stamps at a local county assistance office or online. Cash assistance may also be available through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or the General Assistance Program. You can apply for all of these programs, as well as health coverage, child-care help and heating assistance through the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare.

Availability

Charitable organizations often operate on limited funds and resources, which limits the amount of help they can provide and the number of people they reach. Some organizations receive funding at the first of the month and distribute assistance on a first-come-first-served basis. If you need cash assistance from one of these organizations, it is advisable to ask for help as early as possible. LIHEAP, although it is a federally funded program, operates with limited funding. Qualifying households may only receive assistance once per program and only if funds are available. HUD subsidized apartments and public housing is available on a limited basis. Applicants are often put on a waiting list. HUD recommends applying to several public housing apartments if you are placed on a waiting list.

Tags: public housing, qualifying households, Assistance Program, available through, child care, federally funded

Calculate House Siding

Estimating siding square footage and costs requires only two basic formulas.

Figuring out the square footage of your house for siding purposes is as simple as using a couple basic geometry equations. While siding installation costs take into account other variables---fascia, soffits, window and door openings, and any custom work you may choose to do---the majority of the cost will be the actual square footage of siding plus installation costs. Estimating your square footage and siding costs is just that---a ballpark figure. You'll have to contact a siding company to get an actual cost prediction. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Draw sketches of each side of the exterior of your house that will receive siding. This generally will include the wall and any gables or triangular sections between the slopes of the roof. Don't worry about using rulers or otherwise making the sketch perfect. It's just a general diagram of the sides to which you can ascribe width and height numbers.

2. Measure the areas that will be sided. Measure the width of each wall from corner to corner and the height of each wall up to the roof or slope of the roof. For the triangular shapes formed by the sloping roof, measure the width at the low end (the base) and the height from the center of the base to the roof peak.

3. Calculate the areas using the following formulas:

For rectangles, the surface area of each side is width multiplied by height. For example, a side of your house that is 40 feet wide by 10 feet high is 400 square feet (a x b, or 40 x 10). For triangles, the area is calculated by multiplying the base (say 40 feet) by the height from base center to peak (say 10 feet) and dividing by two. Therefore, b x h = 40 x 10 = 400, divided by 2 = 200 square feet of area.

4. Add all the rectangles and triangles for which you made measuresments. Using the above examples, you would have four sides of rectangles at 400 square feet each that total 1,600 square feet. The two triangles formed at each side of your house equal 400 square feet (200 x 2). The total is 2,000 square feet--1,600 + 400 = 2,000.

5. Multiply the area (2,000 square feet) by the cost of the siding (say $3 per square foot). The cost is $6,000 (2,000 x 3).

Tags: square feet, square footage, your house, each side, each wall, feet triangles

Become A Plumber In Texas

Plumbers in Texas have to take multiple examinations and perform thousands of hours of work to reach the ultimate rank of master plumber. Although plumbers can begin to practice independently after reaching the rank of journeyman plumber, a licensed master plumber earns significantly more money and has access to more job opportunities. According to Payscale.com, journeyman plumbers in Texas earn an average of $17 to $23 per hour, while master plumbers earn $20 to $28.

Instructions

1. Find a plumber to sponsor you. All plumbers must begin at the apprentice level, during which they work and learn on-the-job under the supervision of a licensed master plumber. Seek out local plumbers and ask whether one is willing to sponsor you.

2. Register as a plumber's apprentice. Prospective apprentices must submit an application to the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. The application includes an $18 registration fee and must be renewed each year. If the applicant has incurred a felony, he must submit a Supplemental Criminal History Information Form.

3. Accumulate 8000 hours of work experience. All apprentices are required to spend this much time under the direction of a master plumber. However, after 4,000 hours, the apprentice can, if she wishes, apply for a tradesman plumber-limited license, which allows her more independence.

4. Receive 48 hours of classroom instruction. The classroom instruction, which covers safety issues, must be specifically authorized to provide this training. On its website, the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners offers links to a number of different providers of these courses.

5. Complete high school or get your GED. Although apprentice plumbers are not required to have graduated high school or to hold a general equivalency degree, journeymen plumbers are.

6. Take the Journeyman Plumber Examination and submit an application. The exam costs $27, which also covers the fee for issuing the license if you pass. The exam has two parts, a written part and a hands-on part. You can take the written part in several cities, but you must take the hands-on part in Austin.

7. Apply for a master plumber license after four years. Prior to January 1, 2010, journeyman plumbers could apply for a master plumber license after only one year. In January 2010, the required time was extended to four years.

8. Take the Master Plumber Examination. Like the journeyman exam, the master plumber exam comes in two parts. The applicant must submit a nonrefundable $175 application fee.

Tags: master plumber, must submit, Board Plumbing, Board Plumbing Examiners, classroom instruction, four years, hands-on part

Prevent Accidents In School

Frequent checks of facilities and playground equipment will help reduce accidents.

Keeping a school full of children and staff members safe and accident free is no easy task. A small water spill in the hallway or a pothole on the playground can cause major injury and possibly open the school to legal repercussions if not addressed immediately. To avoid accidents at school, generate a clear set of safety guidelines and keep an eagle eye on facilities. Train staff and students on ways to prevent accidents from happening and what to do if someone does get hurt.

Instructions

1. Create a safety committee of teachers, administrators and students. Get students involved, even in elementary school, so students feel part of keeping the school safe. Ask each committee member to submit one or two accidents he has witnessed at school or identify areas of the facility that may pose a safety threat.

Compile the submissions into a list and cross-check the list to look for similarities. You may find that members have witnessed the same accident or unsafe situation. Present your list to the committee and solicit ways that each situation could be remedied. Ask committee members to think of other ways the school may be unsafe. Add those ideas to your list and ask for suggestions on fix those areas.

2. Repair all unsafe areas within the facility. Refer to your list of hazardous areas and make repairs an immediate priority. For example, if there are potholes on the playground or a classroom door that slams closed, ask the school custodian or groundskeeper to place those repairs at the top of her list.

3. Design a set of safety rules that all students and staff must follow. Using your list from the safety committee, create a set of school-wide safety rules. Rules could include telling the custodian about all spills on the floor immediately (or wiping up any spills you see) to no running in the hall.

Furnish a copy of the safety rules to all students and staff members and then create large posters that list the safety rules. Hang safety posters in common areas such as the lunchroom, office, near the restrooms and in the front hallway.

4. Implement safety training for all students. Ask teachers to conduct classroom safety training based on the rules. Hold teacher training beforehand to direct teachers on topics to cover and train students.

Invite safety experts such as firefighters, Red Cross workers and health workers to school to hold discussions about avoid accidents and keep students safe.

5. Conduct monthly inspections of playground equipment and facilities. Ask safety committee members to conduct routine checks of designated "unsafe" or hazardous areas. Supply the group with a checklist to assist with the monthly review.

Repair or address any broken equipment or unsafe areas immediately after the monthly inspection and re-address any areas that are a habitual problem. For example, if a piece of playground equipment continues to break, remove the entire piece of playground equipment.

Tags: playground equipment, safety rules, your list, safety committee, avoid accidents

Plumb The Septic Tank For A Mobile Home

Mobile home

Many mobile homes are located in rural areas where there are no municipal sewer systems. Mobile residences must use an individual sewer system otherwise known as a septic system. These systems use a septic tank and drain lines to process and remove the waste materials from the home. Used on mobile homes as well as permanent structures, the plumbing process remains primarily the same for both. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Locate the septic tank a minimum of 10 feet from the outer wall of the mobile home. The tank should be buried at a depth of 2 to 4 feet, the shallower the better to accommodate your drain lines. Four-inch PVC pipe will lead from the septic tank to the distribution box, which will be located at the head of the drain lines. Additional PVC pipe will travel from the distribution box to the drain fields where the water will be absorbed back into the soil.

2. Dig a ditch from the inlet side of the septic tank to approximately 3 to 4 feet under the mobile home. This ditch needs to be wide enough to accommodate a 4-inch PVC pipe and should have a slight incline with the lower end culminating at the inlet port of the septic tank. You want this slope to allow gravity to remove the waste and waste water from your home, but you do not want it too steep. If too steep the water will actually outrun the other waste materials leaving them in the drain line instead of carrying them to the septic tank. This can eventually lead to a clogged drain line as the materials continue to build up.

3. Locate the main drain line coming from the mobile home. All of the toilets and other drains should converge into a single drain line under the home. Connect the PVC pipe coming from the septic tank to this main drain line. Attempt to limit the number of turns and couplings in this section of the drain line. Also be certain to keep the couplings smooth and clean on the inside of the drain. A rough or ragged coupling can cause items to hang up, leading to clogs and system failure. Also make certain the drain lines is always traveling downhill.

4. Test the drain lines to be certain all couplings and fitings are water tight and hold up under usage. Once the test confirms the system is in good working order, back-fill the ditches and cover over all elements of the septic system.

Tags: drain line, septic tank, drain lines, mobile home, coming from

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Problems

Tree roots can play havoc with septic systems.

In general, homeowners are responsible for sewer or septic lines within their property boundaries. In some communities, the homeowner can be responsible for the connection between his property and the city sewer line. Many homeowners insurance policies do not provide coverage related to septic problems. Others provide some coverage within limitations. Some homeowners purchase optional coverage against this peril.

Instances of Coverage

In some cases, septic problems may be covered. The first place to look is within the policy itself in the section where limitations and exclusions are listed. If septic problems are not excluded, they might be covered at least to some extent and under some circumstances. It usually depends on why the system failed. For example, if the septic system failed because of a fire where the house burned and the septic line was beneath the house, the septic pipe could be covered.

In another situation, a related claim might be honored. For example, a septic system gets clogged in a home that the homeowner has owned only for a short period. The sudden backup floods a basement area, destroying carpet and creating an unsanitary mess. The insurance offers to cover the cost of cleanup and replacement of the carpet. The homeowner pays to repair the damaged septic system line.

Instances of Non-coverage

Septic systems are like roofs or furnaces. They experience wear and tear, and they require maintenance. If the homeowner fails to maintain the septic system and it backs up, repair or replacement of the system is not likely to be covered. Septic seepage is not likely to be covered either. Seepage occurs over an extended period of time and is not sudden. For that reason, it is usually considered by insurance companies to be a maintenance problem for which the homeowner is responsible.

Special Endorsements

In some areas, a homeowner may be eligible to buy and add on a special endorsement to homeowners insurance that covers sewers and drains. Naturally, purchasing such an add-on to the policy is best done when purchasing the policy or renewing it instead of when there's an emergency septic backup, since the insurance would not be in effect and the claim would probably be denied.

Homeowner's Maintenance Responsibility

Prevention of septic problems helps eliminate the risk of damaging backups. Depending on the area, septic pump-outs at regular intervals may be recommended. Some homeowners whose properties have older trees have septic lines regularly treated to eliminate problems with roots. In some long-established communities, underground septic lines may be especially vulnerable to breakage and need to be replaced with materials that meet contemporary standards and codes.

Tags: septic system, septic lines, septic problems, example septic, example septic system, homeowner responsible, likely covered

Cell Phone Repair Classes

As cell phones become more technologically capable, we become more reliant on them.

Cell phones are widely used and often expensive. Dependence on cell phones is increasing as providers offer greater functionality. Often, providers offset the high cost of the phones with lengthy, binding contracts. With all of these factors, a broken cell phone can be expensive to replace. More and more cell phone users are seeking to repair their broken or damaged phones instead of replacing them. Fortunately, there are two schools in the U.S. and one online cell phone repair course available to learn this valuable skill.

Wildpcs

Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Wildpcs offers a five-day training course. This includes hands-on training on the latest equipment with high-quality tools. Also included in the price of the training is continued support for new technologies. The equipment and tools used in the classes are available for purchase at the end of the course. Wildpcs also operates cell phone repair centers. Franchises are available.

Wildpcs

6000 S. Eastern Avenue, Suite No. 7-D & E

Las Vegas, NV 89119

702-262-1141

wildpcs.com

PhoneFIXation

Atlanta-based PhoneFIXation offers hands-on training classes. The classes are small so there is ample one-on-one time with the instructor. The price of the class includes parts supplier information, tools and equipment, and certification. Two courses are offered, Level 1 and Levels 2 and 3. The Level 1 course is a one-day training program that covers basic topics. The Level 2 and 3 course is a four-day training program and covers more advanced topics.

PhoneFIXation

5071 Peachtree Blvd

Atlanta-Chamblee, GA 30341

404-394-7017

www.phonefixation.com

Alfa Institute

The Alfa Institute is based in India and offers an online cell phone repair course. Unlike the hands-on training, the course is recommended for someone who is already a technician of some sort. The course covers Levels 1 and 2 and uses CDs with videos and an accompanying book. The course price includes one year of free email support. In addition to the online course, there is an advanced hands-on training course that takes two months to complete. Accelerated training is available.

Alfa Institute

C-15, Sayaba Shopping Centre

New Mill Road, Near Kurla Station

Kurla (West), Mumbai-400070

Maharashtra, India

+91-922-128-8068

www.alfainstitute.net

Tags: hands-on training, Alfa Institute, cell phone, cell phone repair, training course

Fix The Sound On A Rca Tv

RCA has been making televisions for decades, and numerous models exist. They range from older tube-box televisions to new flat screen LCD and projection TVs. When the sound on them goes out, each has different steps necessary to instigate repairs--most of which require a trained technician. Before you call one, however, you can take a few basic steps particular to all RCA televisions that may correct the sound problem.

Instructions

1. Perform some basic troubleshooting steps that apply to all TVs. These include checking the "Mute" button to see if it has been pressed, examining the L/R balance to ensure sound is coming from both speakers and checking the cable connections to auxiliary components such as the stereo system (which controls external speakers).

2. Double-check the audio output jacks if you are using an S-video connection (a single round perforated jack) or component video connection (a trio of green, blue and red jacks). Those jacks only run the video signal to the RCA TV. In order to get an audio signal, you'll need to connect red and white RCA cables to their respective jacks on the TV.

3. Check the back of the TV for a switch labeled "Int/Ext." It controls the sound input on some RCA TVs. If you don't have any separate speakers, the switch should be set to "Int."

4. Activate the sound set-up feature by pushing the "Menu" button and scrolling to the sound bar. (This option can usually be found only on RCA flat-screen and projection screen TVs.) The sound bar allows you to set the sound from mono to stereo, activate the surround sound features, adjust the sound for headphone use, set volume levels and activate preset sound levels for movies, sports, concerts, video games and other specific sorts of programming. If any of these settings don't match the configuration of your home theater system, it may cause problems with the sound. If you're confused about the options, select any settings that read "Normal" or "Automatic." That should set the RCA TV to factory standard audio settings.

5. Press the "Menu" button and scroll to the "Set-Up" option, then go to "Preferences." You'll see a bar on the menu marked "Maximum Volume." You can use that to limit how loud the TV can get, which can cause problems if you don't know it's been set. Move the arrow on the bar to reset the maximum volume, then hold down the "OK" button on the remote to hear what that volume sounds like. You can then listen to the TV as normal.

Tags: cause problems, Menu button

Texas Home Grants

There are many housing grant opportunities in Texas, although you will spend time investigating them.

If you're looking for money to help buy a home or make improvements or repairs to an existing one, you have a variety of options available in the state of Texas. Typically, these opportunities focus on the poor, the elderly, and the disabled, or else focus on specific kinds of costs, such as home weatherization. With a little investigation, you can find public grant opportunities at the state and local level, as well as from the private sector.

Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs has a website which explains many different grant opportunities available for home purchase and home improvement costs. One of these opportunities include the Texas First-Time Homebuyer Program, which is not a direct grant but rather a vehicle to securing a mortgage with exceptionally low interest rates, which can save you thousands of dollars over time. Check the TDHCA website to learn about this and other opportunities.

Benefits.gov

The federal government's welfare programs are a crucial means of income and support for millions of elderly, disabled, low-income, and unemployed people around the country. The government has a one-stop website, Benefits.gov, where you can go to learn about welfare programs, review eligibility requirements, and submit an application for benefits. There is a good chance that your specific home improvement costs, especially if the costs are for crucial repairs or energy-efficient upgrades, would constitute an acceptable use of federal welfare money.

Local Opportunities

There are many opportunities available at the local level, especially if you live in the big cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin. Cities and large towns tend to offer down payment assistance programs, home repair financing, and other opportunities for you to become a homeowner or remedy dangerous or inefficient conditions in your home. Once again, check in at your local library to inquire about home assistance grants, and research your municipal and county government websites.

Private Sector Assistance

With republicans firmly in control of the Texas state legislature and governor's mansion, as of 2011, anti-tax and anti-spending economic policies have shrunk state budgets for housing assistance of all kinds. You may find opportunities with the state that are not currently funded, which makes them of little use.

Fortunately, you're not out of options. Many charitable and nonprofit private organizations offer assistance with all kinds of housing costs. Global groups like Habitat for Humanity and People Helping People, along with local groups like the Center for Housing Resources in Dallas, may be able to fill some of the gap in public policy. Check with your local library, which is usually an excellent source for this kind of information.

Tags: grant opportunities, Community Affairs, Department Housing, Department Housing Community, elderly disabled

List Of North Carolina Furniture Outlets

List of North Carolina Furniture Outlets

Furniture outlets sell merchandise that is overstocked, discontinued or has been displayed at a trade show. A majority of furniture outlet stores in North Carolina are located in the towns of Hickory and High Point in the center of the state. Shoppers who visit the stores in person usually get the best deals, but steep discounts off retail are available by phone or online ordering. Does this Spark an idea?

Furnitureland South Outlet Center

Located next to Furnitureland South's main store, the outlet center covers 300,000 square feet of space with 100,000 items for sale at discounts up to 80 percent. All of the merchandise on the sales floor is in stock. Take your purchases with you or have them delivered. There's a café on site that serves soups and sandwiches, and a Starbucks coffee shop. The company's website has a free room-planning tool for designing rooms. You can print the plans and bring them with you when you visit. The outlet is open Monday through Saturday, with extended hours on Friday evenings.

Furnitureland South Outlet Center

5635 Riverdale Drive

Jamestown, NC 27282

(866) 436-8056

furniturelandsouth.com

Hickory Furniture Mart

Hickory Furniture Mart has a combination of about 100 furniture outlet stores, galleries and shops offering discounts up to 80 percent off retail. A half-million people visit the mart annually. Carolina Home Décor, Theodore Alexander and Henredon are among the furniture lines shown. The on-site coffee shop and café serve sandwiches and pastries. Hickory Furniture Mart's website has a room planner and a virtual tour of the four-story building, and interior design services are available. Hickory Furniture Mart is open Monday through Saturday, and Sundays by appointment.

Hickory Furniture Mart

2220 Highway 70 SE

Hickory, NC 28602

(828) 322-3510

hickoryfurniture.com

Boyles Furniture Outlet

Boyles Distinctive Furniture Company locations across the state offer 40 to 50-percent discounts. The outlet store near Winston-Salem sells overstock and discontinued furniture at deep discounts. The store is open Monday through Saturday, and closed on Sunday. Lane, Drexel Heritage and French Heritage are among the furniture lines the store carries. Accessories by Chelsea House, Fine Art Lamps and Rugs by Naja are available. Boyles offers design services and nationwide furniture delivery.

Boyles Furniture Outlet

182 Farmington Road

Mocksville, North Carolina 27028

(336) 998-7712

boyles.com

Simplicity Sofas Factory Outlet

Simplicity Sofas specializes in sofas, chairs and ottomans. The company has a patented no-tools required method for assembly that they claim only takes 15 minutes. All of the furniture is bench made from solid oak in High Point. Customers can order custom cushions made from 100 different fabrics. Designers on the staff provide their services for free. Furniture can also be ordered for delivery through the company's website. Simplicity Sofas is open seven days a week.

Simplicity Sofas Factory Outlet

2726 W. English Road

High Point, NC 27262

(336) 882-2490

simplicitysofas.com

Tags: Furniture Mart, Hickory Furniture, Hickory Furniture Mart, North Carolina, Simplicity Sofas, Furnitureland South, High Point

Receive Tax Credits When Refurbishing A Home

Receive Tax Credits When Refurbishing a Home

Make smart decisions when refurbishing your new home. When replacing outdated appliances, look for the Energy Star seal. When remodeling your home, look for energy-efficient heating and cooling, windows, doors, skylights and water heaters. The US government is offering a tax credit for a variety of energy-efficient building materials for homeowners to encourage investment in energy-saving products. Energy-efficient products conserve energy and reduce costs to consumers by using the latest energy-conservation materials available.

Instructions

Remodel Wisely

1. Invest in the US energy conservation movement. Purchase green building materials when remodeling your home. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has introduced new energy-efficient tax credits for many standard items necessary in home remodeling. A maximum tax credit allowance of $1,500 or 30 percent of the cost for eligible items is allowed in most circumstances.

2. Make sure you understand which energy-efficient products are not limited to the $1,500 tax credit cap. These products include: photovoltaics, geothermal heat pumps, small wind systems, fuel cells and solar water heaters. Each of these products must meet specific product energy requirements to qualify for a tax credit. Requirements vary from product to product. Not all Energy Star-certified products are eligible for deductions (see Resources below).

3. Keep records of all qualifying energy-efficient products. Save all receipts for your tax records. Manufacturers should provide a Manufacturers Certification Statement for eligible products. Retain this information for your records as well.

4. File for a tax rebate when completing tax returns. IRS Tax Form 5695 should be ready for use when filing 2009 taxes.

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Apply Kool Seal

A flat roof candidate for Kool Seal

Kool Seal is one of several reflective coatings on the market to finish or retrofit roofs increasing their thermal resistance and improving their resistance to water damage. Kool Seal comes in tow formulations, one a white elastomeric flexible finish that is painted on with a roller or compressor sprayer. The second is an aluminum based sealant that is painted on with a roofing brush and is embedded with aluminum particles. Both products are designed to be applied full strength and should not be thinned. Kool seal also makes sealing tape used to prep the roof for its reflective coat. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Prep the roof by sweeping away all debris and scrubbing down with a mixture of TSP and water and rinsing well with clean water. Allow the roof to dry thoroughly before proceeding.

2. Patch any cracks with either the black or white Kool Seal patching cement and a spackle palette knife. Lay down the appropriate Kool Seal tape on all seams and around the joint areas of openings on the roof.

3. Roll or spray on the white reflective sealant with a heavy napped roller or with a paint compressor. Apply a thick even coat and paint on a second layer if desired, though it is not required.

4. Apply the aluminum reflective coating with a roofing brush creating medium length even stokes covering the entire roof area and allowing it to dry before applying a second coat if desired.

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Federal Residential Weatherization Grants

New windows can cut down on energy costs.

There are federal programs available that sponsor grants to pay for the weatherization of residential homes and housing units in communities across the United States. Weatherizing homes cuts down on the household's energy costs. Grants are used to pay for equipment and materials, home assessments and labor and administrative costs. These weatherization grants are not required to be repaid by the recipients.

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program is sponsored by the Department of Energy. Grants from this program are used to weatherize homes that are owned by low income households to make them energy efficient. Some of the weatherization projects funded free of charge by the grant program include insulating walls and attics and replacing windows, roofs and heating systems. The costs of weatherization projects average about $6,500 per home.

Weatherization and Intergovernmental Program

U.S. Department of Energy

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

1000 Independence Ave, SW, Mail Stop EE-2K

U.S. Department of Energy

Washington, DC 20585

202-586-5000

eere.energy.gov

Housing Preservation Grant Program

Homeowners, co-op managers, landlords and rental property owners can weatherize their homes and housing units with funds from the Housing Preservation Grant Program. Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture (USDA), this grant program is open to eligible applicants in communities of less than 20,000 residents. State, local and tribal government agencies as well as nonprofit organizations are eligible grant sponsors. Grant recipients must use the funds within a two year period.

Housing and Community Facilities Programs National Office

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Room 5014 South Building

14th Street and Independence Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20250

202-720-9619

rurdev.usda.gov

Public Housing Capital Fund

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sponsors the Public Housing Capital Fund program, which provides grants to public housing authorities (PHAs) to develop and modernize housing units which includes weatherization projects to make them energy efficient. Funds are also used to cover managerial improvements and debt payments. Grants are not eligible to fund luxury improvements to the public housing units. These grants are open only to PHAs.

Jeffrey Riddel

451 7th St. \SW

Room 4130

Washington, District of Columbia 20410

202-708-1640

hud.gov

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Refurbish A Deepcycle Battery

Refurbish a Deep-Cycle Battery

Refurbishing and caring for your deep-cycle battery (the type used in marine vehicles and RVs) keeps it working longer. The most important things are keeping the battery charged and its electrolytes at their highest recommended level. There are minimum and maximum levels to the battery's electrolytes and state of charge, mainly depending on whether it's a 12- or 6-volt battery. Make sure the battery isn't under- or overcharged; an undercharged battery can become crystallized, and an overcharged one can corrode.

Instructions

1. Clean any corrosion off of the battery using a mix of warm water and baking soda. Mix 1 lb. of soda with each gallon of water you use. Clean the battery terminals and the inside of the clamps with a post and clamp cleaner.

2. Recharge the battery immediately after using it, charging it someplace well-ventilated with no flames or sparks present. Use a charger with a charge rate that's within 10 to 13 percent of the battery's 20-hour AH capacity. A three-stage charger that performs a bulk charge, absorption charge and float charge works best.

3. Test the battery's voltage with a digital DC voltmeter to check its state of charge. Recharge the battery if the voltage is below 70 percent, which is 12.37 on a 12-volt battery and 6.19 on a 6-volt. The battery is fully charged at 12.73 (12-volt) or 6.37 (6-volt).

4. Refill the electrolyte level by removing the vent caps and using mineral-free water (distilled works best). Fill it to just above the plates if the level is below that. Then don't add any more water until the battery is charged. Fill a charged battery up to 1/8 inch below the fill well.

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Low Income Heap Guidelines

States offer the low income home energy assistance program, or LIHEAP, which pays energy bills for low income residents. LIHEAP includes a restriction on the total value of the cash that the household can earn as well as a restriction on total household income that depends on how many people live in the household. According to the state of Ohio, LIHEAP assistance is usually a direct credit that the power company lists on the billing statement that the applicant receives annually.

Eligibility

Eligibility for LIHEAP depends on the average income in the state, territory or district, so a household may qualify for LIHEAP in one state at a certain income but not in another. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, a state cannot authorize LIHEAP for applicants that make more than 150 percent of the state poverty level as of 2010, but the state can set a lower maximum income limit of 110 percent of the poverty level to conserve funds. A state may also establish LIHEAP eligibility using a percentage of the state's average household income, with a maximum limit of 60 percent.

Energy Source

LIHEAP assistance also depends on the source of energy that the household uses for heating. A state may provide additional subsidies to encourage the use of renewable power or other types of energy. According to the state of Ohio, the program pays a subsidy that depends on the primary type of energy that the household uses, so using a small amount of a different energy source will not reduce the subsidy.

Income Exclusions

When a household calculates its income for HEAP or LIHEAP, it must include some types of income and deduct other sources of income. According to the state of Ohio, HEAP income includes wages, unemployment, alimony, child support, Social Security, pensions and other compensation. HEAP income does not include many sources of income from state and government benefits programs, such as food stamps, some types of government stipends and allowances, and Medicare.

Billing Responsibility

A household can only qualify for LIHEAP if it pays for the utilities. This includes a payment that the landlord adds to the rent if the landlord pays the heating bill directly, according to the state of Oregon. If a state or federal agency pays the heating bill as part of another assistance program for low income residents, the resident is not eligible for LIHEAP.

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