Muhammad Mukarram Technical Services L.L.C

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Shocking Garage Door Injury Statistics

Whether it’s a residential garage door, massive dock door for a big box store or a roll-up door for a mall retail shop, one thing is certain: Without proper maintenance and repairs, overhead doors can be literal death traps. With reports peppering the nation about injuries from faulty sensors or outdated garage doors catching feet, children and pets, a subpar garage door is a huge liability. However, the actual injury statistics may surprise you.

According to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance Survey (NEISS), the most common type of garage door injury is “pinch/crush section joints” which happens to about 7,550 Americans each year. This includes “fingers caught between section joints, (and) includes amputations, avulsions, etc.” It’s no surprise that this is the most common, but what’s astounding is just how serious these injuries can be. All it takes is a few skipped maintenance inspections or a bad spring to bring a lawsuit to your family or business.

“Crushing” Reports

The second most common injury occurs from “falling doors,” with over 2,100 Americans falling victim to this each year. According to NEISS, this happens when a “door falls for any reason” and includes reasons like a bad installation, outdated and un-maintained doors, or any other number of things. However, a quality garage door with solid installation won’t fall “for any reason”, which is why it’s paramount to demand both top notch doors and installation.

“Sharp edges” account for over 800 injuries every year, with NEISS defining it as “lacerations from garage door window glass.” Today’s garage doors-when they do feature glass-are shatter-resistant. Should they break, which is rare, it’s similar to when a car window breaks. The result is gummy and messy, but there aren’t any sharp edges. Unfortunately, that’s not true of older overhead doors.

Rounding Out the Top Offenses

“Other entrapment” happens to nearly 200 Americans every year. “Half of these were fingers caught between rollers and tracks” according to the research, and could also fall into the pinch/crush category. Tracks and rollers are some of the most common parts that need maintenance, but it’s always best to have a professional handle it.

“Race to beat the door” leads to around 135 injuries every year in the US. “People trying to get through the opening before the door closes” is a dangerous game, but a fruitless one if you have a good overhead door with sensors. When this is the case, the sensor will stop the door from closing (and perhaps re-open it) when there’s any movement detected.

Playing it Safe

Finally, “riding the door” can (not surprisingly) cause about 90 injuries per year in the US. This should be avoided with a little common sense, but of course that’s something children and teens don’t have in abundance. However, an overhead door that’s current and undergoes regular inspections should be able to hold the weight of a child-of course, that should never be put to the test.

The vast majority of these injuries are avoidable with common sense, maintenance and upgrades. Going without these three is a gamble no homeowner, landlord or business owner should take since the house (or in this case garage door) always wins.

Source by Jill Smith

A Personal Review Of The Riccar Upright Vacuum Cleaner

I just bought an upright Riccar vacuum cleaner – the Radiance – and it’s the best vacuum cleaner I’ve ever had. It was an expensive purchase but I think it’s worth every penny and I can’t fault it. However, I recently met someone who bought a Riccar upright vacuum a few years back and they told me about the problems they had after using it on damp carpet.

I had an Electrolux vacuum cleaner and I loved it. It faithfully cleaned my floors and carpets for over 8 years before dying of old age. At first I thought I’d buy another Electrolux – I think it was the Oxygen – anyhow, I started reading some vacuum cleaner reviews online and found myself getting very confused. Some reviews of the Electrolux vacuum cleaner were complementary while others derided it. I then started looking at other brands, which was a bad idea, as I just got even more confused. Eventually, I went to our local vacuum retailer and I’m really glad I did.

It was in the store that I first came across the Riccar vacuum cleaner. I’d never heard of it before but the man in the store told me that Riccar don’t advertise that much and its vacuums are more or less sold by word of mouth. Anyhow, he demonstrated the Riccar Radiance upright and I was amazed at how powerful it was. I was also able to try out the Electrolux vacuum cleaner. While it was good, I really preferred the cleaning power and ease of use of the Riccar.

Furthermore, the salesman told me that Riccar vacuum cleaners are built to last. He showed me the metal components of the vacuum and I was able to compare it to the Electrolux. I was amazed at how much metal is used in the making of the vacuum (and how little is used in other brands). The vacuum comes with a reinforced metal pedal, a stainless steel bottom plate, metal wand and even a polished metal cord hook!

Other features that impressed me were the indicator lights telling you when the bag is full, when to change the filter and when the brushroll gets jammed. It’s also comes with cute LED headlights.

As you’d expect the Radiance comes with a HEPA filter, however, the filtering is further improved because the filter is sealed.

But without doubt the most impressive thing about the Radiance is its motors, 2 to be precise. They work synchronously and it’s called the Tandem Air System. One is a high-velocity motor placed right above the head so you great tremendous suction. The other is placed above the other and it provides the suction for the onboard tools and helps with the high efficiency filtration system.

I’ve now been using the vacuum for several weeks and it’s been great. I have both hardwood and carpeted floors. With my old Electrolux vacuum cleaner I would have to manually adjust the brushroll but the Riccar vacuum is self-adjusting, which makes cleaning my floors a lot easier. The onboard tools are easy to use and snap on and off easily. All in all, I’m delighted with it and find it very hard to find fault with it.

However, recently I was playing tennis with an acquaintance and afterwards we started talking about vacuums cleaners – as you do – and when I told them I bought and loved my Riccar they told me they had bought one several years ago and it was a mistake and ended up being a pile of expensive junk. Apparently, they used it on carpets that had just been washed and were still damp. Afterwards they left it on the carpet. Anyhow, a day or two later the axel between the rear wheels rusted and pretty soon they couldn’t push it along. They tried to complain and get their money back but the company told them they had ‘abused’ the vacuum and told them the warranty was void. I’ve made a note never to go anywhere near water with mine.

I’m really happy with my Riccar vacuum cleaner and think the build quality, materials and suction power make it one of the best vacuum cleaners you can buy, even if it is also one of the most expensive.

Source by Robin Cassidy

Three Ways Your Business May Be Killing Your Employees and Customers

Yes, you read the title of this article right! Three overlooked causes of serious health problems are having a detrimental impact on the health of employees and customers. Fortunately, important research is bringing these vital business health concerns to light. According to a landmark 2018 report from the World Health Organization (WHO), leading Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) in homes and businesses are:

* Environmental noise;

* Air quality; and

* Water quality.

Governmental health agencies worldwide are actively studying SDoH using advanced cloud-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems. This article will discuss the importance of these findings on business owners. Other articles in this series will present inexpensive methods for improving health in polluted business environments.

Environmental Noise

Both indoor and outdoor factors contribute to the level of noise in homes and businesses. Indoor sources of noise include ventilation systems, white noise machines, and appliances and other machines. Outdoor sources of noise include cars, trucks, airplanes, playgrounds, schools, and construction and other urban activities.

According to the WHO report, the expansion of urban activities, highways, airports, and low-quality building construction increases the level of noise that people are exposed to in homes and businesses. All told, these factors are known as “environmental noise.”

In addition to hearing loss and lack of sleep, SDoH studies have revealed that excess noise has other detrimental effects on health. Guidelines based on AI analysis of SDoH found that the relative risk for death by heart attack or stroke increases 14% for every 10 dBA increase above the annual average of 45 dBA daytime and 35 dBA nighttime.

For example, a 50 dBA turbine installation that meets current US and EU standards, running all day, every day imposes a 7% increased risk of heart attack and stroke annually on people exposed to the turbine’s noise.

Since the typical business office “cruises along” at 55 dBA, it’s easy to see the negative effects that noise is having on employees’ health!

Consequently, WHO noise guidelines of 45 dBA day and night will soon be adopted in the US by the NIH, HUD, NIOSH, EPA, and HHS. This means it behooves businesses to proactively implement measures for reducing noise.

Air Quality

As opposed to noise, poor air and water quality are more “silent killers.” In business, owners are responsible for providing a healthy workplace by ensuring proper building construction and maintenance. Management of moisture requires proper control of temperatures and ventilation to avoid excess humidity, condensation on surfaces and excess moisture in materials. Ventilation should be distributed effectively throughout spaces, and stagnant air zones avoided.

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can also result from the presence of furnishings and building materials containing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, radon, and others. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has been linked to certain diseases like asthma. In addition, substances such as asbestos and radon do not cause immediate symptoms but can lead to cancer after many years of exposure. Poor outdoor air quality results from vehicle exhaust, industrial pollution, commercial manufacturers and construction sites.

Poor air quality is a major health concern. Like noise, AI analysis found increased risk of serious stroke and fatal heart attacks when poor air quality (indoor and outdoor) is present. AI analysis of SDoH found that the relative risk for death by heart attack or stroke increases 14% when you live and work breathing poor quality indoor and outdoor air.

Water Quality

Significant adverse health effects have been associated with inadequate plumbing systems in businesses and homes stemming from poor design, incorrect installation, alterations, and inadequate maintenance.

Numerous factors affect the quality of water within a building’s piped distribution system. Poorly designed plumbing systems, for instance, can cause stagnation of water and provide a suitable environment for the proliferation of Legionella.

Moreover, improper plumbing materials, pipes, fittings and coatings can result in elevated concentrations of lead in drinking-water, and inappropriate materials can be conducive to bacterial growth.

According to the EPA, there is evidence that several metals found in drinking water (such as lead and arsenic) may contribute to heart disease or aggravate its symptoms. In addition, Stroke reports that even low exposure to arsenic is associated with an increased risk of stroke. To the surprise of investigators, AI analysis of SDoH found that the relative risk for death by heart attack or stroke increases 14% when you live and work where you drink or breathe (yes breathe) poor quality water. Researchers discovered that toxins such as lead, arsenic and even radon can be found in municipal and well water in quantities 100 times or more than found in poor quality air. Of even greater concern is that even if you do not drink the water coming from the faucet at home and work, the water that is aerosolized while running that faucet to wash your hands and aerosolized when flushing the toilet can carry enough contaminants to increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Summary

In conclusion, excessive environmental noise, poor air quality, and poor water quality can all lead to serious health conditions, including heart disease and stroke. When these Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) are present in your businesses, they can quite literally be killing your employees and customers. Now that the findings are in, the next step for business owners is action.

Source by Allison A. Sakara

Choosing a Heating and Air Company and What Qualities to Look For

When choosing a heating & air company, you have to be able to choose the best one for your money, or risk not being protected from the cold, the heat and just about any weather condition that you live in. It is important that you learn what makes a good HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) company, and what things should matter when you are out choosing one.

Of course, there are literally hundreds of companies that could offer you the services that you need. Even if you narrow it down to local providers, you would still be looking at tens of different companies that could all seem perfect for your wants and needs. Choosing a heating & air company would be difficult if you do not know what makes a good HVAC company, so here are some things that you might want to look for (see list below):

1. License and certificates. If you’re looking for an HVAC company you’d have to make sure that you are choosing one that is licensed to operate and offer services in your area. Look for certifications that prove that they have the skills and the training to do the job that you need them to do.

2. Competence. There are many ways that you can test a company’s competence. One of them is to get them to bid on your project. A good contractor should be able to give you a reasonable price just by checking out your place and looking at the project. They should be able to look at the problem and see exactly what they need to do.

3. Honesty. A good contractor should be able to explain to you the problem on the spot without confusing you with too much information and using too much technical jargons, proving once and for all that he is knowledgeable of the job and that he is honest about it. This will also prove that he looks at things in the big picture.

4. Technology. Choosing a heating & air company isn’t all that difficult. You can spot a good contractor from a bad one if he offers that you use good, up-to-date machines that you can incorporate in your home. For example, if you want to use a new, efficient and power-saving air conditioner, your contractor should be willing to explain the benefits and the disadvantages of using such a model from such a brand.

Source by Karl H. Abbott

The MAGPRO Marauder Report

Yes. The Marauder is the new kid on the Precharged Pneumatic [PCP] Airgun block that can’t be punked. After being in the Airgun world for 35 years and establishing a business in the shooting sports industry over the past 6 plus years, I’ve developed an appetite for product quality, fair value and manufacturer integrity.

I received my .22 Benjamin Marauder mid July 2009. There are as many posts out there as you would care to read from owners communicating a range of personal experiences. After reading a number of these posts you’ll realize that the reports are so closely consistent that they appear redundant.

The consistent reports about the Marauder certainly underpins the base-line performance that you can expect should you choose to become a Marauder owner. My report will confirm many of the performance qualities you may have read about and include original observations to add to the ongoing Marauder experience.

I agree with many of the favorable reports about the Marauder, such as:

o From the initial opening of the box to getting acquainted with the Marauder you feel like you

got more than you paid for. Not something we feel often these days.

o Finish is classy and exudes visible quality.

o Stealth like quiet report. Really!

o Full Power shots per fill can be 35 – 45 and even more depending on your personal tune setting.

o The ability to personally adjust the full range of tuning components of a PCP is a feature that the Marauder has and it appeals to an audience with a wide-range of experience levels.

o The choked barrel makes this rifle very accurate and probably a better shooter than many of its owners.

o The trigger is perceptibly friendly and match level adjustable to boot.

Here are some of my personal observations:

Rotary Magazine

During the new owner “getting acquainted” period, when you’re not very familiar with the Marauder’s handling techniques; a user error, not a product malfunction, may cause an accidental loading of more than one pellet into the breech. This can happen when not pulling the bolt back until it cocks. Then allowing the bolt to slide forward under spring pressure, which results in pushing a pellet partially or fully into the breech. The natural thing to do when you discover that the gun is not cocked is to try cocking it again. When you pull the bolt back the second time it frees the rotary magazine to index to the next pellet, which gets pushed behind the existing breeched pellet when you close the bolt again.

Solution 1 – Point the muzzle in a safe direction and use a suitable backstop. Now fire the rifle thereby clearing the multiple pellets in the breech. This should not be a problem if you have 800psi (never tried less pressure) or higher in your on-board reservoir.

Solution 2 – fully depressurize your rifle using the degassing tool method (see owner’s manual). Then follow the procedure for removing a jammed pellet. Remember, you’ll be removing more than one pellet at the same time, which will cause increased bore-to-pellet friction. Take your time and be careful not to use a rod that will damage the rifling.

New Marauder users may also find themselves expending effort to dislodge what seems to be a “stuck” magazine. Truly the magazine extracts flawlessly when used correctly and you won’t have this problem once you become more familiar with the operation of and relationship between the bolt and rotary magazine. A common culprit for a “stuck” rotary magazine is that the bolt pin may be partly in the magazine. Simply pull the bolt back to the rear most position and the magazine can be removed. (Always fire the rifle in a safe direction to clear any breeched pellet.)

Another culprit is a partially inserted pellet. Closing the bolt completely, thereby pushing the pellet fully into the breech, and then pulling and holding the bolt back to the rear most position will free the magazine for removal. (Always fire the rifle in a safe direction to clear any breeched pellet.) Most owners may never experience these problems, but if you do, know that it’s not the rotary magazine.

Protecting the Shroud

This caution applies to most PCPs and is meant to be helpful in avoiding unintentional user damage to the matte finish of the shroud. There is potential for surface damage to the shrouded barrel area above the fill probe. The quick disconnect fitting can scrape/scratch the bottom of the shrouded barrel when connecting and disconnecting to the fill probe. This can be solved by installing shrink wrap tubing or wrapping electrical or other durable tape around the quick disconnect fitting component parts (note: ensure that your shrink wrap tubing or tape does not interfere with the quick disconnect moving parts). If nothing else, at least place a barrier (e.g. cloth, gun sock, etc.) over the section of the barrel that may be bumped by the quick disconnect hardware. Over time, you’ll be glad to have practiced careful handling during pressurizing.

One of My Optimal Tune Settings

One hundred Marauders can be manufactured and among them will be some level of uniqueness in performance characteristics. So, using my settings may not produce the same results in your rifle. You must take the time to experiment with your rifle to achieve the performance that you desire. Here are the settings I use to achieve a satisfactory basic field distance (BFD): Hammer Tension 6, Hammer Stroke 4 and Velocity Adjustment 2.5. (The owner’s manual explains the adjustment parameters for the various tuning components). This setting produces an average 915 feet per second [FPS] with 14.3gn Crosman Premiers (CP’s) amounting to just over 26 foot-pounds of energy [FPE]….. I get over 30 full power shots with this setting. When using Dynamic 14.5gn PCP2’s with the same setting I get 940 FPS resulting in 28 FPE.

Trajectory Report and Long Range Shooting

The Marauder performs exceptionally during long-range field shooting conditions. The Marauder can’t be punked by many well established PCP’s carrying a price tag ranging 2 – 3 times as much.

Mount a quality mil dot scope and enjoy the process of charting long-range hold-under / hold-over data.

Once you’ve done this for your pellet(s) of choice the data will immediately become invaluable. You’ll shoot with absolute confidence at ranges out to 75 yards and beyond. My furthest distance shot string was during a 15mph left to right wind at 108 yards producing a 4″ group. It was no question that the gun was out shooting me. I’ll be shooting at this distance again under better conditions. In addition to shooting groups at 108yds, I also performed one of my low-tech penetration test using a soup can (soda cans are too thin). Every shot entered and exited the can, then embedded in the tree backstop. At 108yds the CP 14.3gn pellet is traveling at 421 FPS and retains 6 FPE. My currently chosen maximum effective field range is 70 yards. At 70 yards the 14.3gn CPs are traveling at 549 fps, delivering 9.5 fpe at the point of impact (POI) and my point of aim [POA] to POI is between right on to ¾ inch.

Crosman Customer Service

I have had the pleasure and, on some occasions, the displeasure of working with a number of customer service teams in the shooting sports industry. My contact with the Crosman Customer Service staff has been one of the most satisfying, respectful and responsive customer care experiences that I have had in any service industry. Crosman respectfully listened to my concerns, answered my questions and checked in with me to ensure that I was satisfied with their resolutions. I am still floored when I think about the time I received a check-in call from a Crosman representative who I knew was home sick for the day. Janet’s colleagues were very helpful during her absence. However, it was important for Janet to know that I was a satisfied customer, even though she was not in the office that day. Crosman treated me like a valued customer. Kudos to Crosman Corporation for excellence in customer care.

I’m presently placing the Marauder through additional testing (e.g. hunting, silhouette, different pellets, charting more tune settings and more…). Certainly, an important measure is the Marauder’s reliability over time. Unfortunately, my time machine is under-going a five-year maintenance service. Therefore, the Marauder has to be time tested the old fashion way.

The Benjamin Marauder lives up to its claims and is quickly establishing a respectful place in the quality PCP family of adult precision air rifles.

If you have found the MAGPRO Marauder Report helpful and would like me to test and review your Airgun industry products, I welcome the opportunity to work with your business.

Source by Charles Hollins

What to Look for When Hiring an HVAC Professional

Working with Air Conditioning Contractors

When dealing with a breakdown of you central heating and air equipment, you don’t want to struggle finding honest, reliable help when you’re pressed to find relief from the sweltering heat or bitter cold. Right off the bat you should know you’re getting help from a qualified and skilled professional able to handle any repair or situation that is put before them. You might wonder who you can trust, and what you can expect them to do for you, or if its worth it to call a local service provider? These questions can be easily answered and give you the desired results for any service need you have.

When Should You Call a Local Service Provider?

Some homeowners may attempt to fix their air conditioning system on their own without having a good understanding of how to deal with bigger issues. If you are attempting to work on your own furnace, air conditioning system or heat pump, look for these noticeable signs that may indicate a bigger problem that would be best handled by a professional.

Furnace

  • If your furnace is older, 15 years or more, it may need to be replaced. normally the first 4 digits of the serial number will give you the year and week of manufacturing.
  • If it is making strange, abnormal noises.
  • If cold air is coming out.
  • If a carbon monoxide detector alarm is going off in your house. It is recommended that homeowners with natural gas appliances have several of these in bedrooms and other locations around the house.

Air Conditioning System

  • If your air conditioning system is 15 years or older, it may be more cost effective to replaced it versus repair
  • If your system uses R22. The EPA has mandated that all manufacturing of R22 be stopped, driving up the cost and price per pound in your area.
  • Continued breakdowns year after year may indicate a bigger problem that a contractor is better equipped to handle.

Heat Pump

  • If either unit, indoor, or outdoor is not performing well
  • If temperatures are staying even throughout the house.

Finding a Qualified Contractor

In this internet driven age, most homeowners will pull out their smart phone and research local contractors in their area. Many search engines like Google will provide all the information in a concise format, providing reviews, website info, and contact information. Yelp is also a great resource for homeowners to peruse reviews and read feedback provided by the owner, or management of the company. Even companies with several bad reviews help homeowners see how the company handles conflict resolution, and helps you know what to expect. The number of reviews is not always the best representation of that companies customer service. Look at the quality of each review that describes the experience of the consumer.

A quick search at https://www.tdlr.texas.gov will also provide you with information about a potential contractor. This is the governing and licensing agency for all contractors in Texas. All advertising material and websites should list the contractor’s license number. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation will provide information about the licensee and their current status. The following guidelines below will also help you find a qualified, trustworthy contractor.

Knowing Who to Trust

Most Homeowners want to find someone trustworthy, who is reliable and who they’re able to call in the future should the need arise. Here are a few tips to ensure you get quality workmanship from a contractor. Make sure they are qualified! A contractor that is licensed and insured will have no problems producing proof of such to a prospective customer. Don’t be afraid to ask if they are licensed and insured. Insurance is required by the state to protect both the contractor and the consumer. Knowing this information prior works out for both parties involved. If you can’t find this information readily available on their website (usually in the footer or bottom of the homepage near their contact info) don’t hesitate to ask.

If a air conditioning contractor has additional certifications, that information will usually be present on their website. NATE technicians are the industry’s gold standard in technical proficiency. NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence. Testing and certification for NATE is rigorous and comprehensive, ensuring you’re dealing with someone who is able to proficient in troubleshooting and air conditioning system knowledge.

The price of the contractor is important!

One of the greatest determinants for most homeowners when it comes to repairs, or replacement options for central heating and air conditioning is price. Neither the highest price or the lowest is an indication of quality, or value. Most contractors work very hard to minimize the cost or find a cost effective solutions that works for their customers needs. Smaller companies or family owned and operated outfits will typically provide high quality work, and be more competitive than larger companies that rely on a certain sales volume to cover the cost of their high overhead.

Equally as important as price though is the warranty. You want the assurance of knowing your air conditioning repair is backed by the company that performed the work. This also shows that the contractor has faith in their own work as well. A good contractor will also have a contingency built into most repair estimates, or may choose to offer you good, better, best options for repairs or replacement. Not every customer wants the same thing, or level of service on every call. A good contractor also will not typically discuss pricing over the phone until they have had a chance to survey the situation, or diagnose the issue

Size is Important

If system replacement is what you are looking for a contractor should provide a size assessment of your home. Ensuring your home’s air conditioning system is sized correctly is important for your comfort when it comes to single stage systems and base line models of air conditioning systems. Higher SEER rated equipment or multistage or variable speed equipment will provide superior comfort than most of the base line models, and also result in savings on your utility bill. A good contractor will provide several options and be able to explain the difference and benefits of each system. Ask about what methods the contractor used to determine the size requirement of the air conditioning system for your home. Manual J software, blower door tests, HERs raters(for new construction, required in certain areas) and other technologies are used by quality contractors to determine this.

What Does a Contractor Do?

After you have found a contractor you can work with you may wonder what to expect next while they are working at your house. A contractor will typically carry out these tasks during installation, repairs or maintenance.

  • Equipment should always be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, using the industry best practices.
  • Connecting systems to different fuel and water lines.
  • Connecting air conditioning ducts and sealing to prevent air loss.
  • Installing electrical controls and wiring according to code
  • Performing tests on the equipment, and controls during and after startup
  • Inspect and asses any type of HVAC system.
  • Test individual parts of the system to isolate and diagnose what needs fixing.
  • Replace or repair whatever is broken or defective.
  • Performing routine maintenance to ensure the HVAC system is running efficiently throughout the year.
  • Replacement of filters and clearing of drain lines to maintain the efficiency of your system.
  • Cleaning of condenser coils yearly or quarterly
  • Cleaning of evaporator coils periodically or as needed.
  • Tightening electrical connections or lugs, or periodically replacing components that are worn and may cause greater issues down the road for components connected to the electrical supply.

Quality Contractors will typically employ sophisticated tools that are essential to your systems function, performance, and reliability. They will also typically discuss best industry practices they employ to ensure the reliability of your system. Vacuum pumps, recovery machines, acetylene torches and combustion analyzers are tools typically employed by good contractors.

Source by Jon Riddle

What Is the Best Vacuum Cleaner for Your Individual Needs?

There is no one best vacuum cleaner for all circumstances. To claim there is would be like saying everyone should drive a certain luxury sedan, or small economy car. Someone who needs to haul 6 kids doesn’t need the same vehicle as someone who hauls 4×8 sheets of wallboard. My needs and your needs may not be the same. Some people just want to clean rugs and carpets, others have bare floors, and some people want to vacuum the curtains and wood trim, what we call “above the floor cleaning”. Some of the new frieze and shag carpet is too long for many vacuums and some of the newest high yarn count carpets (like Dupont Silk and Shaw Caress) are very soft & comfortable to walk on but very difficult to push most vacuums on. Some people have dust allergies and need superior filtration. Some people need a vacuum light enough to carry up and down stairs, others need one that’s very easy to push. At Byers Vacuum we spend some time asking questions before we recommend a particular vacuum. Here are some of the questions you should ask yourself: What surfaces do you want to clean? If carpets, how long? Bare floor? Above the floor? Do you have area rugs with fringes? Carpeted stairs? Does anyone in the household have dust allergies? Are you picking up long hair that gets wrapped around the brush? How many hours a year will it be used? How many years do you want it to last? Do you want to buy American? Most vacuums, including Hoover, Eureka, Dirt Devil, Bissell, and Dyson, are made in China, S. Korea, Malaysia, or Mexico. If you have the answers to these questions, you are ready to determine what vacuum is “best” for you.

A straight suction canister is good for bare floors and above the floor. A canister with a power nozzle allows you to also clean carpet. Some power nozzles will height adjust for the new friezes and shags, some won’t. The same is true of uprights: some will height adjust for friezes and shags, some won’t. The new extra soft carpets need the ability to reduce suction (one company drilled a bunch of holes in their nozzle to bleed suction). And some uprights have attachments that work well for above the floor cleaning, but some have none, or they don’t work very well. Most uprights cannot turn off the brush separately from the motor, but a few can. This feature allows you to vacuum a bare floor without scattering dirt all over. Also, if you have rugs with fringes, or fragile antique rugs, you might want to be able to turn the brush off. Most canisters with power nozzles allow you to turn off the brush. On the uprights that can turn the brush off, some do it by a lever on the nozzle, others have 2 motors with a switch right on the handle which allows you to turn the brush motor on & off with a flip of your finger, rather than bending over, — much more convenient when doing fringes.

Some uprights, like the Orecks and SupraLites, are very light. This makes them very easy to carry from one level to another or to transport back and forth in a cleaning business. Other machines, like newer Kirbys and certain older Hoovers, are truly self-propelled, where they have a transmission that runs the vacuum in both forward and reverse as you push and pull on the handle. These can be operated with one finger, but are heavy to carry up and down stairs.

Of course, aside from making sure the vacuum will work on the surfaces you need to clean, some vacuums filter better than others. Don’t believe that all “HEPA” filters are the same. In Europe a product claiming HEPA must meet the standard. In the US, you can put a filter that tested HEPA at 10CFM on a vacuum that exhausts air at 90 CFM and blows dirt right through the filter. Or a vacuum may have allow air out other holes so it doesn’t go thr the filter, but it van still claim it has a HEPA filter. From what I’ve read from people who tested vacuums with a laser particle counter (if you have severe dust allergies, you want it to have been tested at 0.3 microns or less) the Miele and Nilfisk have the best filtration. However, one test using imitation bags and filters in a Miele reported a measurable dust emission. So it isn’t just that the vacuum is well sealed and gasketed, it’s the quality of the bags & filters. A typical micro-lined bag will catch most of the dirt down to 5 microns, but it’s not just the bag or filter you need to be concerned with. Bagless machines usually leak a lot more dust (in spite of their “HEPA” filters or cyclone technology), plus you spread a lot of dust when you empty the container. Even if you don’t have dust allergies, you may find if you compare the cost of bags to the cost of filters for most bagless, that the bagged vacuum is more economical and less messy. Replacing a bag usually takes less than a minute and the result is a brand-new primary filter without having to wash and wait for bagless filters to dry, which can take up to a day. In my opinion, the best thing about a bagless is that you can watch the dirt spin.

Some vacuums have metal brushrolls with slide-in replaceable bristles, which in heavy use is more economical and much more durable around long hair. Plastic brushes can melt if hair gets up in the ends. Some are better shielded from hair than others. Another thing to watch out for is plastic axles, rather than metal. These wear out quickly and the wheel falls off. Some vacuums are much more durable than others. Some are more comfortable to use for different people. The only way to know for sure is to try them out. My recommendation is to buy a vacuum from a local vacuum store that services what they sell, can show you the quality differences, lets you try the vacuum on different surfaces, and will let you return it if it doesn’t work well on your carpet. If you have a problem carpet, such as shag, or the new soft carpets, bring in a left over piece to try vacuums on, so you can see how easily each type of vacuum will work on your carpet. They can advise you on the durability of different machines, as well as parts availability.

Some vacuums in chain stores come with longer than average warranties, but there may not be anyone in your market to service it (Dyson & Shark come to mind). So I advise checking to see if a machine can be serviced locally, in warranty or after, before you buy. You may find many brands can be serviced, but not under warranty, in your market. And some may not be serviceable at all.

In conclusion, you can see that there is no one “best” vacuum for everyone. And a number of brands might serve your needs. I personally like the Riccar onboard tool uprights and also their lightweight uprights, but for canisters, I prefer Miele’s German-made models. The German Sebos are also very nice. And if you lived in a town where the only brand you could get repaired was a Hoover, you should probably try to find the best Hoover for your needs, in spite of the fact that they are now owned by the Chinese, and are no longer made in the USA (since I originally wrote this, Hoover has gotten to the point where they don’t offer very many parts for machines, especially if it’s more than 2 or 3 years old, so this advice may no longer be as valid as it was). If you’re just starting out, living in a small apartment, with no allergies, no children, and no pets, a cheap discount store model might be quite adequate. It’s amazing how much longer a vacuum lasts if you only have 500 sf of carpet to clean, rather than 3000.

Source by John G Byers

Importance of Modern Rescue Tools

The art of safely removing a trapped person from a cramped or small space with out making additional injury or damage to the his life is called extrication and the rescue tools are employed by trained personnel with ample practical experience in handling such averse accidental situations and rescue operations. The main importance of rescue tool is to extract the trapped individual without creating any uncontrolled movements leading to secondary injuries. The modern tools are high performance hydraulic extrication tools powered to perform a range of rescue operations like innovative stabilization, lighting, and ventilation.

In olden times, rescuers used circular saws for automobile extrication, however the drawbacks of saws is spark get generated making it unsafe and had to be stopped for the better of the victim. Halligan tool or crow bars were also employed that were a threat the vehicle as well as the victims, as they can inadvertently trigger the airbags of the vehicle.

Modern rescue tools are an engineering marvel as they are the tools of saving life of people stuck in cars or high-rise building that are caught by fire or any natural or untimely accident. Hydraulic extrication rescue tools like cutters, confined space cutter, glass cutters, front liner, rams, telegrams, spreaders, cribbing tools, NT bags, SQ bags, LP bags, airbags, ventilation tools, cover sets and rescue gloves are the modern rescue tools employed by trained firefighters and technical personnel in rescue squads.

Natural calamities gave rise to the need for specialized tools and equipment capable of penetrating in stone and cement concrete partitions, finding trapped victims, and reaching out to them in cramped spaces, and perform rescue operations. There are times when modern portable and versatile tools capable of performing the necessary tasks in rescue operations are urgently needed. In the rescue operation, the firefighter has to shift the victim from the disaster site through these portable rescue tools and machines to a safe spot in no time. The accidents and untimely disasters are incidents with varied outcomes and differ in the type and kind rescue operation required to save the victims.

Rescue tools industry is in its nascent state yet and research operations on developing camera’s and audio visual tools to see through the concrete and stone walls are being idealized, communicating devices that can listen and identify voices of victims stuck under collapsed buildings are also being thought of late. A rescue operation may fall in similar categories like entrapment rescue, collapsed or a confined space rescue and impalement rescue, however it is possible that incidents have their own individuality, as well.

Source by Anusha Angle

Save Money and Stay Cool This Summer

Central air conditioners are considered to be more efficient than room air conditioners. It is important to have the right size air conditioner to meet your home’s needs. Larger units, while thought to be generally more efficient, will not operate efficiently if they are over-sized. This will cause them to cycle on and off more frequently rather than running for longer, more efficient periods.

High efficiency units generally cost more, but these units can pay for themselves overtime by reducing your energy consumption, helping keep those bills lower. Newer air conditioning units can use up to half the electricity that older air conditioners use.

Helpful Tips to Help You Save Money

Homeowners can save money by setting the thermostat on the air conditioning unit at 25°C or higher. Each half-degree setting below 26°C will increase your energy consumption by approximately 8%. Keep the indoor and outdoor coils clean and free from dirt and dust build up, as this is the most common cause for poor efficiency. Be sure to check the refrigerant charge, if you are unable to do this, you may need a service contractor to check the fluid to adjust it properly for maximum cooling efficiency.

Other Tips to Help Keep Costs Down in Summer

To help keep costs down and help to keep cool in the summer months, try not using dish washing machines and other heat generating appliances until later in the evening as the temperatures cool down. Keep the house closed tight during the day, and shading the east and west windows in your home can help considerably to keep things cooler.

It is always important to have your unit maintained regularly by cleaning and replacing those air filters. A clean air filter means less air resistance for the air conditioner and makes a big difference in the air quality of your home.

Another good way to keep those costs down on your cooling bills is to refrain from cooling empty rooms. You can save money by turning off the unit when no one is home, and if you must keep the air conditioner running while you are away, use a timed thermostat to help instead of running the unit all day. It is not going to help by cranking the unit on maximum, as this will not cool a room in your home any faster.

The best and most efficient way to cool your home is to set the thermostat at 78F and give it time to cool down.

Heat Sources to Keep in Mind:

There are many heat sources around your home that can keep your air conditioner from running at peak performance, and steal your cool air. Incandescent light bulbs are one of those sources which give off heat; it is a good idea to switch to fluorescent bulbs or the more efficient LED light bulbs. Another common source of heat are those long, hot showers that raise the air temperature inside your home, and add humidity to the air which makes it feel even warmer. Just by trying a few of these helpful tips can save you substantial money in your wallet, and help to keep your home nice and cool this summer.

Source by Donna Kshir

Cable Basket: What It Is, How It Is Used, and the Advantages

What Is A Cable Basket?

A cable basket is a form of cable tray that is constructed out of a wire mesh material, and it is used to provide support for data cables. Proper cable management is facilitated because cables are kept organized and all in one place. It is typically used when there are a plethora of small cables to be wired. Data cables are small in nature compared to electrical wires or other wires and cables that are much heavier in nature.

When the cable installation involves heavier wires, it is common that a more solid tray be used. This type of tray is typically made out of steel. The solid tray is made out of steel to protect it from corrosion due to exposure to the elements, the installation almost always involves running some of the wires outdoors. Baskets, though far lighter than the typical tray, are also made to last against the elements. Though baskets are not made out of solid steel in the same way that the trays are, the baskets are made to be protected against corrosion and will last for a long time. Additionally, the more solid cable tray provides support for the heavier wires.

How It Easily Facilitates Cable Distribution and Cable Management

A cable basket facilitates easy cable distribution and cable management because all that has to be done is that the wires are laid inside of the baskets, rather than pulling it through pipes. Because pulling these wires through pipes is definitely more difficult and time consuming, dropping the wires into cable baskets takes only a fraction of the time and allows for the cables to easily be distributed around the building. Baskets run along the building in the same way that pipes do, except that they are open, allowing easy access to the wires but still providing protection to the wiring. The openness enables the wires to be maneuvered in a hassle-free way, hence the reason baskets are the most preferred when it comes to data cables over open wiring and other conventional methods of installation and cable management.

The Advantages of Using Cable Baskets

Using cable baskets presents a number of advantages during a cable installation, as well as after that. There are two main advantages to using a basket during the installation. One advantage that is most appealing is that baskets are lighter and much easier to use compared to the tray, since the cable tray is more cumbersome. Another advantage to using these baskets during an installation is that many more installations can be completed within a given day because of the quickness and ease that baskets provide. Advantages after the cables have been installed include, but are not limited to, being able to make changes to the cables with little or no difficulty (The openness of the baskets allows for this to be easily done) and providing optimal protection for the wires.

Being that cable runs are frequent in a premise and often subject to changes, it is fitting that a cable basket or cable tray be used. These allow for changes to be made easily so as to adapt to changing cabling requirements.

Source by Lester Lim