14 October 2014

Homeowners 101: How to Clear a Clogged Drain

A clogged drain isn’t something that any homeowner wants to deal with, but they’re a fact of life that you really can’t avoid. While they can be pretty annoying, they don’t have to ruin your week, and you don’t always have to call for an expert repair. Use these tips to help you. 

If you can’t, there are a variety of people that can help with a clogged drain Toronto residents trust. 

1. Pour boiling water down the drain from the tea kettle. If you have a particularly tough clog you may need to repeat the process a few times. Let the sink rest for a while after pouring water down the drain, as it may take some time for the boiling water to eat through the clog.

2. Combine a small amount of baking soda with distilled vinegar if the boiling water doesn’t clear the blog. The mixture of baking soda and boiling water can help to dissolve a clog that’s related to fat or hair, both of which are common problems in the kitchen and bathroom respectively.

3 Consider calling a professional if you don’t have any results with the boiling water from the kettle or the mixture of baking soda and distilled vinegar. You may have a more serious problem than a clogged drain, especially if you have a garbage disposal that isn’t working. Call a company that can deal with issues like sump pump Toronto residents really trust in their homes.

5 Ways to Stay Safe at Home

Everyone deserves the right to feel safe at home. However, the necessary precautions need to be taken in order to remain free from danger. Here are five important home safety tips. 

Electronic guard dog
In an effort to enhance the security of their property, some families choose to get a guard dog. However, an actual guard dog is not the only viable option. Homeowners can install an alarm that features the sounds of a ferocious guard dog. This will help to deter criminals while the residents are away from home. Placing a dog bowl on the porch will also make burglars think twice before attempting to break into the home.

Reinforced doors
A well-built door is a major benefit to home security. If possible, install steel frames around all of the exterior doors. One of the most important components of a front door is the deadbolt system. Always invest in a quality deadbolt system that offers the highest level of security. Try to avoid installing doors that are designed with a large glass window.

Fire safety
At least one smoke detector needs to be installed on every floor of the home. A security system monitoring service can actually be connected to the home’s smoke detectors. If one of the alarms is triggered, the monitoring service will promptly alert emergency services. However, homeowners must remember to develop a solid fire escape plan.

Stay alert while cooking
A large percentage of house fires are caused by cooking accidents. Never make the mistake of taking a nap while cooking. Keeping a fire extinguisher near the kitchen is always a good idea. Although some people choose to use slow cookers while at work, they still need to be very careful. Instead of allowing young children to use the stove upon returning home from school, prepare snacks that can be heated in the microwave. 

Key-less entry panic button
A car’s key-less entry panic button can be used to enhance the security of a home. If the homeowner notices the presence of a home intruder, they can push the panic button on their car keys. This will certainly help to scare away the criminal. However, the car has to be parked in close proximity to the home.