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Tap water side effects and benefits of a water purifier
health

Tap water side effects and benefits of a water purifier

Tap water, while safe, is not the recommended source of drinking water, according to studies. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the drinking water regulations in the country. According to the EPA, anything other than water molecules is considered a contaminant. However, some of these contaminants are safe at certain levels. This article discusses the safety of tap water for drinking, its side effects, and a few reasons why a water purifier is needed. Possible contaminants in tap water Some chemical compounds that could make their way into tap water include industrial runoff, pesticides, lead, mercury, and even arsenic. Other contaminants include bacteria, viruses, and parasites. There could also be contaminants from human-made nuclear waste and uranium or radium deposits in the ground. Side effects of drinking tap water Arsenic can cause partial paralysis, blindness, discoloration of the skin, vomiting, numbness in hands and feet, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Chlorine can cause chronic cough, chest tightness, airway irritation, sore throat, and breathing difficulties. Fluoride may cause severe skeletal problems and also fluorosis. Pesticides can develop extreme weakness, headaches, allergic sensitization, and also eye and skin irritation. Bacteria like E.coli can affect the stomach, causing diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramping, vomiting, and nausea.
5 tips for choosing the best home water purifier
Home & Garden

5 tips for choosing the best home water purifier

A water purifier helps keeps drinking water free from contaminants and odor. So, choosing the right purifier is a crucial decision for proper health and sanitation at home. The choice of a purifier can vary based on one’s budget, specific requirements, and regional water quality. As there are many types of water purifiers at varying price points today, choosing the right one may involve some research. Here are a few tips to get started: 1. Check water quality One of the first steps in choosing a purifier is getting the tap water tested. Based on the results, one can learn about the contaminants present in the running water. Then, one can choose a purifier that specifically gets rid of those contaminants, which can be bacteria, viruses, lead, and arsenic, among others. 2. Look for certification One way to check whether a purifier is good enough is to look for NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) certification. NSF develops public health standards for specific products. Its certification mark indicates that the water filter or purifier has been tested for safety. 3. Explore various types Depending on the water quality in the area, one can choose from a reverse osmosis purifier or UV sterilization purifier.
Here’s why every home needs a water purifier
Everything Else

Here’s why every home needs a water purifier

Water purifiers are more than just another trend in home improvement – they provide clean water for consumption and remove harmful, disease-causing bacteria from it. Tap water that people consume is loaded with harmful bacteria, gasses, and chemicals, which increases the risk of bacterial infections and various water-borne diseases. A good-quality water purifier can help detoxify one’s body, promote skin health, and improve digestion. A few advantages of water purifiers are listed below. Better skin health Having water in its purest form moisturizes and replenishes the skin, leaving it soft and even-toned. Water purifiers remove bacteria and harmful chemicals from water, ensuring healthy and glowing skin. Less vulnerability to reproductive and hormonal issues Tap water may have traces of chemicals that can disrupt bodily hormones. Drinking purified water ensures that these elements are filtered out, reducing one’s risk of hormonal imbalance. Similarly, the heavy metal content in tap water can affect one’s reproductive health. A water purifier removes all these harmful contaminants from drinking water. Prevention of bacterial infections Tap water in one’s area is likely contaminated with harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, which cause severe bacterial infections. Having clean, pure drinking water from a water purifier is a must to prevent such infections and stay healthy.
4 common annuity mistakes to avoid
finance

4 common annuity mistakes to avoid

An annuity is a valuable financial tool. It can help diversify a person’s portfolio and secure funds for retirement. Over time, it can also prove to be a steady income source, which can be used for meeting daily expenses. However, individuals are prone to making mistakes while investing in an annuity and getting into unnecessary financial trouble. One must learn about these common mistakes and try to avoid them as far as possible. Overlooking the fees Various fees and expenses are associated with an annuity. These include investment management fees, administrative fees, and surrender charges. Individuals should account for these and read the guidelines carefully before signing up to avoid confusion. Failing to consider tax implications Tax implications for an annuity withdrawal can vary based on various factors. The withdrawal tax is generally calculated based on the investor’s age, the type of annuity, and the distribution method used. Individuals who do not consider these factors can face an expected tax liability. So, when considering investing in an annuity, one should consult a tax advisor to understand the consequences of withdrawal. Tax advisors can suggest a well-thought-out, tax-efficient strategy to increase profits. Not considering competitors Before making any investment choices, individuals must ask around and check market values.
4 factors to consider when buying a water bottle
Everything Else

4 factors to consider when buying a water bottle

Choosing a reusable water bottle is a step towards reducing the constant purchase of plastic water bottles. This decision can help save the environment and improve a person’s health and lifestyle. While purchasing a reusable water bottle seems like a simple task, several factors need to be considered. In addition to style, price, and capacity, individuals must weigh their options carefully to choose the right bottle for their hydration needs. Ease of use The shape and size of the mouth opening of a bottle are crucial factors when it comes to ease of drinking and pouring. One must also pour smoothies, fruit slices, or ice cubes into the bottle to help decide. Wide-mouthed bottles are more straightforward to fill and provide easy cleaning for the user. On the other hand, narrow-mouthed bottles make it easier to control the flow and help avoid spillage. Insulation Insulated bottles are designed to maintain the temperature of beverages. However, the duration for which the beverage stays hot or cold depends on the type of insulation used. Some options can help maintain the desired temperature for shorter or longer periods. These bottles suit those who spend considerable time outdoors, whether traveling, commuting, or engaging in outdoor activities.
3 home remedies to relieve joint pain in dogs
pets

3 home remedies to relieve joint pain in dogs

Like us humans, dogs experience pain and weakness in their joints as they age. Conditions like arthritis become increasingly common and harrowing if pet owners do not address the issue immediately. Therefore, individuals must give dogs the care they need to improve their quality of life. One does not have to make frequent vet visits to achieve this goal. Several remedies can help manage a dog’s joint pain at home. Hydrotherapy Pool-based exercises and physical movement are great for reducing the pain dogs experience when they have conditions like arthritis. Low-impact routines help strengthen a dog’s joints, keep the muscles around the joints toned and fit, and enhance a dog’s mobility. Underwater exercises are also helpful as they improve muscle mass and joint structure without stressing the joints too much. These exercises also reduce the impact of injuries and pain. When using hydrotherapy, one must ensure their pets are safe. Dog owners must also check the temperature of the water. Cold water tends to make a dog’s joints and muscles stiffen up, so it must be avoided as much as possible. Massages Exercising is a good way to reduce the joint pain dogs experience as they age. However, pets need to warm up their muscles and loosen any stiffness in their joints before exercising.
4 mistakes to avoid when buying furniture for the home
Furniture

4 mistakes to avoid when buying furniture for the home

Buying furniture needs time and a whole lot of planning and visualization. One has to think of the big pieces to add to the room and the complementing elements that can help everything come together, including the wall colors, flooring, and everything else. However, people often make some common mistakes while shopping for furniture that may cost them dearly. Here are some such mistakes one must avoid when buying furniture. Not measuring carefully Before buying a piece of furniture, one must carefully measure it and the dimensions of the room where it will be placed. It is recommended to measure it a couple of times to ensure accuracy. Also, it is important to consider the doorways when buying the furniture. While the living space or the bedroom might be big, the furniture must still fit through the doorway to move. So, always get these basics in place. Also, understand the scale of furniture and the living space. Think creatively and see how some big elements might go well with a small room. Buying cheap furniture Do not buy just anything because it is on sale. One must consider the furniture as an investment in one’s home. One must get pieces that make one feel comfortable and complement the look of the house.
4 factors to consider before buying a car
auto

4 factors to consider before buying a car

A car is a huge investment. It is the biggest purchase after a house for many. So, one must think before deciding what to buy. Whether a mid-sized sedan, a crossover, an SUV, or something else, the new car should meet one’s expectations. From performance to interior features, people must check everything before purchasing. To get started, here are a few factors to look into before buying a new car. Infotainment systems A vital factor to check before buying a car is its infotainment system. A good system provides entertainment and critical information while driving. Most infotainment systems were originally designed to offer safety features but now have become an all-in-one information and entertainment source. One can connect their devices, such as a phone or tablet, to get access to a host of useful and fun applications to enhance the driving experience. Safety features Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a car is the safety features available. One should check the standard as well as optional safety features the car manufacturer offers. In addition, one should learn about the vehicle’s safety rating and how it has performed in various tests, such as crash and collision tests. Seat design and comfort Gone are the days when car seats used to be there just as a necessity.
5 great buy now, pay later apps for phones
finance

5 great buy now, pay later apps for phones

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) apps are apps people can use to purchase the goods they want and pay for them later on within a reasonable amount of time. They are great options for many shoppers in a cash crunch near the end of their wage cycle. There are a handful of BNPL providers with super-intuitive phone apps. Some of the most commonly downloaded and best ones are listed below: Afterpay School and university students often try BNPL apps when they use up all their spending money. One of the best options designed with students in mind is Afterpay. This app comes with a generous credit limit of $500. Each purchase made using it gets split into four equal payments. Arguably, the best aspect of this app is that users do not need to have a basic creditworthiness score to enjoy the BNPL benefits. There will only be a soft credit check before users can shop for whatever they need within limits. Affirm Many users consider Affirm to be the best BNPL app for various reasons. It offers users a whopping purchase limit of $17,500 and, like Afterpay, only a soft credit check is run before the transactions are greenlit.
Top 6 glass walls and doors ideas for home
Home & Garden

Top 6 glass walls and doors ideas for home

Glass walls and doors have surged in popularity rapidly thanks to their versatile benefits. Not only do they enhance natural light penetration and functionality, but they also offer plenty of customization options and modern designs that elevate the look and feel of the space. Glass doors and walls provide unobstructed views and blur the separation between indoor and outdoor while maximizing natural light. Here are some popular design options to try out. Glass walls and doors ideas for home Glass door for a walk-in closet Most walk-in closets are hidden away, but separating the space with a glass door can add elegance and sophistication to the entire wardrobe. One can go for a single or sliding glass door or an opaque one for more privacy. Easy to use and maintain, clear glass doors can enhance the visibility of a space. One can also etch names and titles on them for added style and personalization. Sliding glass doors in bathroom A bathroom is another place where glass sliding doors can add character. Glass does not suffer from corrosion or damage due to moisture, which makes it ideal for this area. Glass room dividers One can easily divide two rooms or create a small partition between two rooms with a glass door divider.

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Air filters – types and cost
services

Air filters – types and cost

When it comes to air quality, there cannot be any compromises. This is why it is important to figure out what type of air filter matches your needs perfectly. This can be done by understanding the various types of air filters and how much each costs. You can always cut down on costs by shopping online and using air filter coupons. But first, let’s take a look at the different types of air filters. HEPA filters High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most reliable and effective ones among the lot. They filter out 99.97 percent of dust, mold, and other particulate matter from the air. They are the best option for people dealing with respiratory disorders. However, you may need a professional to install the filter. HEPA filters cost anywhere from $10 to $75, depending on the size and quality of the product. UV filters As the name suggests, these filters use ultraviolet light to destroy any germs, viruses, or bacteria in the air. However, they are not quite effective in keeping out dust particles and allergens. Therefore, they are often used in combination with another filter. They cost anywhere between $60 to $225. They can be hazardous to the human body in the long run.
Top 5 sources for car rentals
auto

Top 5 sources for car rentals

If you’re planning on visiting your grandmother in Orlando or have simply decided to take a trip to Vegas, you will be needing a rental car. However, there are a million different options out there making it difficult to trust a service. Fortunately, some websites help you find a trustworthy rental company, compare rates, and book directly. Let’s take a look at where to find affordable and reliable rental cars. Rentalcars.com If you’re looking for cheap and trustworthy rental cars, this is the site to visit. After filling in details like pick up and drop location and time, you will be presented with a list of rental car services across different platforms. From car rental compare rates to a wide selection ranging from basic cars to fancy ones, rentalcars.com will help you find the best ride. CarRentals.com CarRentals.com helps you select from different cars such as sedans, convertible, and even sports cars. You can easily compare rates, filter your options, and book the perfect car for you in three easy steps. You can also add rental protection for around $10/day at the checkout. Unfortunately, drivers under the age of 25 and over 70 may have to pay a surcharge. KAYAK You can rent everything from hatchbacks and SUVs to luxury models and pick-up trucks at KAYAK.
4 simple tips to choose healthy dog food
pets

4 simple tips to choose healthy dog food

The pet food in your cart is not going to be healthy just because the packaging claims it is. Instead of relying on what the advertisements tell you is good for your pet, you should research and understand what is actually beneficial for them. If you want to keep your canine healthy and happy, select the best dog food at your disposal. Here are four factors to consider the next time you’re shopping for dog food. Be mindful of their age The most important factor to consider while choosing the best dog food is your pet’s health. You should pick food age-appropriate food for your pooch, both in quality and quantity. Experts say that puppies need food packed with protein and vital minerals, while an adult dog’s diet should depend on their daily activities. Older dogs should be served low-calorie food that’s rich in fiber, protein, and fatty acids. Meet their nutritional needs Meeting your pet’s nutritional requirements is essential to keep them healthy. One of the things to keep in mind while looking for the best dog food is the type, quality, and amount of nutrients it contains. Professionals say selecting foods with all essential macro and micronutrients is the right way to go.
4 best AT&T prepaid plans
services

4 best AT&T prepaid plans

Every mobile carrier, including AT&T, tends to focus on their postpaid customers. They’re not unfair in doing so, as postpaid customers contribute more money to their accounts than prepaid ones. They’re also a constant source of cash, although that doesn’t mean there’s absolutely nothing on the table for prepaid customers. Focusing only on AT&T, the carrier has introduced some excellent plans for prepaid customers.  One-year 8GB plan for $300 upfront Picking a plan every month can be frustrating, so why not stick with one for the entire year? If it sounds right to you, go with this AT&T prepaid cell phone plan. It is one of AT&T’s best budget options, costing only $300. You’ll get 8GB of data every month, which is more than sufficient for browsing and a bit of streaming. In case you underuse data in a month, it gets carried forward to the next month. 15GB plan for $40 per month $40 is a decent amount to pay for 15GB of data. While it may not be enough for heavy streaming or playing games, it is enough for little to heavy browsing and enjoying music. According to estimates by AT&T, 15GB is enough for over 1,000 emails, 400 hours of streaming music, 40 hours of web browsing, and 15 hours of SD video streaming combined.
3 best no-contract cell phone plans
services

3 best no-contract cell phone plans

Several popular networks in the country offer 4G and 5G coverage to cell phone users of all ages. However, the myriad of options can make it challenging for you to choose the best plan. Factors like the number of minutes, texts, available data, connectivity, cost, and exclusive services are a few things you must consider. To help you get started, we have scoured the internet to find the three best no-contract mobile phone plans. Mint Mobile If you are looking for an unlimited data no-contract cell phone plan, Mint Mobile offers you one for $30/month. You can switch to their network and still keep your current number. The plan is also compatible with unlocked phones, so you can bring your own device to avail of the offer. But ensure to check out the official Mint Mobile website to understand network coverage and make sure your area code offers the best speeds for downloads. If you prefer limited data, worry not! Mint also features 4GB, 10GB, and 15GB plans starting at just $15/month. Boost Mobile If you are scouting for a network that supports your 5G device, this one is for you. Boost Mobile offers a sweet 5G-enabled no-contract cell phone plan.

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Top 5 cell phones for seniors
shopping

Top 5 cell phones for seniors

Are you planning to buy a cell phone for a senior family member? Make sure to select something that caters to their various needs. In general, cell phones for seniors must be easy to use, feature large screens, and have reliable safety features. Fortunately, there are a few cell phones in the market that fit the bill. Herein, let’s take a brief look at some of the best cell phones available for seniors today. Lively Smart Lively, previously known as GreatCall, is a company that specializes in making cell phones for seniors. Lively Smart’s large, 6.2-inch display makes reading, typing, and video calling easy and fun. The phone features an emergency alert button, which on activation allows Lively to get the individual’s location and send help. It also comes with features that enable seniors to book a taxi with a touch of a button and speak to healthcare professionals at any time. RAZ Memory Cell Phone The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is designed to help people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of intellectual disabilities stay connected. It has a single, always-on screen that includes large photos and names of contacts, a button to call 911, time, and battery level.
Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy
services

Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy

A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar. NordVPN It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment. CyberGhost If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you.
4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021
shopping

4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021

Tactical boots are designed for professionals who need to move fast and be light on their feet. They are not just used by military personnel. And while out to buy a pair of shoes, everyone knows what size or color of boots they’re looking for, but do you know which brand will meet all your needs? To help you, here are some of the best tactical boots you can buy in 2021. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultra-Lites Tactical Sport Side-Zip Boots Bates Men’s Ultra Lites are one of the best lightweight tactical boots you can buy in 2021. The side zipper makes them easy and incredibly comfortable to put on or pull off, and that sure comes in handy if you’re in a rush. The soles are slip-resistant, so you’re safe on smooth and slippery surfaces. Additionally, these military boots have removable inserts to adjust the cushioning and comfort according to your preference. Under Armour Valsetz RTS Under Armour’s UA Valsetz RTS Tactical Boots are lightweight, durable, and slip-resistant. The textile upper and synthetic leather make them comfortable and offer great support. The Ultralight Micro G™ EVA midsole offers excellent cushioning for the feet. Under Armour has been a star in the world of athletes, so you can rest assured that their tactical boots are comfortable and reliable.
3 best anti-radiation phone cases
smartphone

3 best anti-radiation phone cases

Radio frequency waves and electromagnetic waves have been identified as one of the major health risk factors for humans. With most of the population relying on smart phones and wireless internet for survival, the amount of radiation these devices emit is a cause for concern. But you can invest in a decent anti-radiation cell phone case and prevent such radiation from affecting your health with long-term use. Here are our top three picks: 1. DefenderShield DefenderShield is one of the best anti-radiation cell phone cases you can buy that is also approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The case manages to block out 99.99 percent of electromagnetic radiation. The product is designed with multiple layers of shielding without it affecting the device’s ability to send and receive a proper signal. Their proprietary DefenderShield technology additionally blocks 5G wireless, WiFi, and Bluetooth radiation. The material also manages to dissipate any heat within the layers. DefenderShield anti-radiation phone cases are designed for popular Apple and Android smartphones. 2. SafeSleeve SafeSleeve is another popular alternative that is certified by the FCC. The anti-radiation cell phone case is designed to counter 99 percent of direct 5G, WiFi, and cellular radiation. Additionally, the materials are designed to bounce back at least 92 percent of extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation adsorbed form batteries, AC power adapters, and other external devices.
Top 4 ERP software to choose from
software

Top 4 ERP software to choose from

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software are programs that help businesses keep track of and ensure that their customer orders are in place and the data is easily accessible. The program helps better manage aspects like eCommerce, business intelligence, CRM, and marketing automation. Since it is so crucial for the smooth running of a business, it is necessary you choose the absolute best. Oracle NetSuite Oracle NetSuite is one of the highest-rated ERP software available in the market. The program is favored by a major population of business owners across the globe. NetSuite is designed for ease of use and promotes growth, as it provides you complete control with customization options. Oracle is suitable for everyone, right from bookstores to fashion businesses that need an ERP system. You could take a free product demo from the brand to know more about the program. However, since there is customization involved, the website does not mention a price. Microsoft Dynamics Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a cloud-based accounting system that works optimally in combination with Microsoft Office 365. The program can just as easily be synchronized with other Microsoft products and is very easy to navigate. The business version of the software is equipped with better, faster, and more efficient features.
3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men
beauty

3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men

Do you need an effortless way to shop for the latest fashion and apparel? Your prayers have been answered with monthly fashion boxes for men and women that are delivered home. A seasoned stylist can curate a box of clothing and apparel to fill your wardrobe based on a simple questionnaire. The subscription service is also an affordable way to pay for fashion that you like to explore. You can create a custom wardrobe in a few simple steps with these three top services. Stich fix Stitch fix is a unique no-subscription service that curates monthly fashion boxes for men and women. The process begins with an elaborate questionnaire to help the expert understand your clothing and styling needs. Based on the answers given, stylists at the company will curate the best design, fit, and apparel preference for your wardrobe. Customization is one of the critical features of this service so expect a personal style experience with every order. Stylists handpick the best choices for a service fee of just $20, and you can try out all options before making a purchase. Stitch fix features order on-demand as well, so you don’t have to wait around for scheduled box deliveries necessarily.