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5 common oil change mistakes to avoid
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5 common oil change mistakes to avoid

An oil change is a necessary maintenance task that should be done within a specified time limit to ensure the engine does not cease to work. Skipping this step only further increases the risk of engine problems that might cost thousands of dollars in repairs simply because of a lack of proper lubrication. If you prefer to change engine oil on your own, here are five critical mistakes to avoid next time. Not using the right type of oil Motor oils are classified into different blends depending on the type of vehicle and the driving conditions in which they are used. Synthetic oil is more suitable for extreme weather changes. It has better viscosity and resistance to oxidation. High-mileage oils help improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions, whereas conventional oil is the cheapest of all variants used in most motor vehicles. Not maintaining proper oil levels Underfilling or completely topping up the engine oil will only hamper engine performance. Learn to use an oil dipstick before running the engine. Overfilling can force the engine oil to fill up the gasket, leading to leaks. Not filling enough increases friction and can stall the pistons completely. Not replacing oil when its recommended If you drive an older model vehicle, it is recommended that you change the engine oil once every 3,000 miles.
5 essential steps to install a gas line
Home & Garden

5 essential steps to install a gas line

Installing a gas line at home is a detailed process that needs to be executed correctly. Therefore, there are a couple of things that one needs to get right from the beginning to prevent any mishaps. For example, using the wrong pipe can hamper the entire process and result in an installation without functionality. So here are certain steps one can keep in mind to ensure that the quality of installation is met. Turn off the gas supply Before starting a new pipe installation, it is essential to turn off the existing supply. This needs to be done at the gas meter. Furthermore, ensure it is turned off completely by turning the valve a quarter turn. Double-check to see that the meter isn’t moving. Get the right pipes and fittings When purchasing a gas pipe, it isn’t about buying from a reputable brand but also picking the ideal size. Most domestic gas lines use 1.27 cm to 3.81 cm pipes. However, various cities have different pipeline installation materials, sizes, and specifications. Therefore, consult a standard company to where the building belongs before purchasing. Extend the existing line and make the connection The next step involves extending the existing gas line with the new fittings, including valves and pipe lengths, to ensure the pipeline reaches the new appliance.
4 ways to maintain a water tank
home and garden

4 ways to maintain a water tank

Maintaining a clean and sanitized water tank is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of your household. This is why it is critical to know the best ways to clean your water tank. From regular inspections to thorough cleaning methods, practical tips and examples are beneficial to homeowners. By implementing these tips, you’ll be able to enhance water quality, prevent contamination, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your water supply is clean. Regular inspections and maintenance If you want to stay on top of water tank hygiene, ensure you are keeping up with regular checks and maintenance. Any possible signs of cracks, leaks, or damage could result in a tank’s integrity being compromised. You will also need to regularly check your pipes, fittings, and valves. Conducting daily inspections allows you to address problems early on and avoid costly repairs or water quality issues down the line. Flushing and draining the tank It is common knowledge that draining and flushing a water tank periodically helps avoid any debris, sedimentation, and stagnant water from being accumulated. The first step to doing this is turning off the tank’s water supply. Next, open the drain valve and allow the tank to be completely drained.
5 effective ways to clean carpets at home
home and garden

5 effective ways to clean carpets at home

Cleaning the walls and dusting furniture are essential aspects of home cleaning, but the carpet is one surface on which considerable dust accumulates over time, and cleaning it becomes a challenging task. And contrary to popular belief, carpet cleaning can be a hassle-free process if one follows the right strategies and is aware of certain quick cleaning hacks. This article provides insight into some easy ways to clean a carpet: Clean using basic household products The “solutions” to a spotless carpet are mostly readily available at one’s home. A mixture of club soda and vinegar or baking soda, borax, and cornstarch can do wonders for your carpet, leaving it stain-free and tidy. One may also use steam vapor or a salt and vinegar solution for effective carpet cleaning. Another pro tip for cleaning a carpet is to apply a dab of shaving cream on it, which is effective in removing different types of stains. Blot stains on the carpet A common mistake while cleaning carpets is to rub on stains after pouring a solution. The right way to remove these stains is to blot them using a paper towel, sponge, or even a clean piece of cloth. Use ice cubes Hard, sticky substances like gum can be difficult to clean from carpets.
4 ways to get the best price when selling a truck
auto

4 ways to get the best price when selling a truck

Planning to sell your truck but are confused about the asking price? Well, that is just one of the many factors that you need to consider before listing the vehicle for sale. With the auto market being saturated with preowned and unsold vehicles, paying attention to details can make all the difference if getting a good price for your truck. Here are a few ways to get the highest price for selling your truck: Negotiate with the buyer Don’t say yes to the first deal or offer by the buyer. Always wait and compare the market rates to find the best price for your truck. Being impatient will only make it more difficult to get a decent profit on the deal. Consider a private sale Dealerships can haggle aggressively, so you won’t get the best trade-in value for your truck. So, it is better to compare private-party deals as you will find a significant difference in the trade-in value and the private offer. Why should you miss out on that extra cash simply because you want to avoid the hassle of paperwork and documentation? So, consider organizing a private sale. Determine the true value Before you decide on a price point and sell your truck, you should get a professional appraisal to determine the value of the truck in its present working condition.
5 weird but super effective cleaning tools
home and garden

5 weird but super effective cleaning tools

When people think of cleaning tools, certain images may pop into their heads; a brush, a suction cup, a cleaning cloth, a vacuum cleaner, a mop, a scrubber, and so on. However, besides these, there are a host of unconventional tools and solutions that be just as effective in cleaning surfaces and items. Most people may not know about these and, therefore, will never have experienced their effectiveness. Here are some such cleaning tools: Advanced baking soda spray Many people know about baking soda’s underrated cleansing properties, but not many may try baking soda spray to clean furniture upholstery. All one needs to do is take warm water and mix about three tablespoons of baking soda. People can add a few drops of scented oil into the mix for fragrant results. This spray is useful for cleaning fabrics. Before using a baking soda spray, all one needs to do is mix just the right amount of baking soda and sweet-smelling oils so that the odor never becomes overwhelming and the soda’s residue does not stay behind on materials. Sliding door track cleaning brush A sliding door track is incredibly useful to clear dirt and dust from the track of a sliding door.
4 kitchen cleaning hacks that aren’t really effective
home and garden

4 kitchen cleaning hacks that aren’t really effective

Cleaning is a mammoth task, especially in the kitchen area, which gets pretty messy while preparing different cuisines during the day. While people try several cleaning hacks to make the job easy and quick, the results rarely meet their expectations and instead do more harm than good. With that in mind, we have listed some of the most popular kitchen cleaning hacks that don’t work, along with alternatives worth trying. Using the oven’s self-cleaning feature Although modern ovens have a self-cleaning feature, using it makes things worse. In most cases, the appliance heats up and releases harmful gases, leading to indoor air pollution. If you still wish to use this trick, turn on the exhaust fan in the room, start the oven’s self-cleaning feature, and leave it untouched for a few hours. Then open the windows and air out the room to eliminate the toxic gases and their accompanying odor. Using bleach to clean the counters Another cleaning hack that doesn’t work involves using bleach on the kitchen countertops. It’s common for stains to remain on the surface after handling poultry, fish, and raw meat. However, using bleach to eliminate them can emit volatile compounds that may trigger headaches, asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues.
Top 7 foods that help relieve migraines
health

Top 7 foods that help relieve migraines

Migraine, marked by a severe headache and throbbing pain, is a common phenomenon that affects many people. There are several reasons for it, including sensory stimuli, stress, weather changes, hormonal changes, and other underlying health conditions. When the neural activity becomes overactive, it gets more sensitive and causes migraine. To avoid this, it is important to make changes to one’s food regime. Adding certain foods discussed below to one’s daily meals can help relieve migraines. Leafy greens like spinach and kale Spinach and kale are both leafy greens that contain magnesium, which has shown to prevent neurons from becoming hypersensitive. This, in turn, helps keep migraines at bay. Kale is also rich in fiber, but one may require some time to get used to its strong taste. These versatile foods can be blended into soups, salads, pastas, as well as chips. Scrambled eggs Eggs are a nutrient powerhouse that also provide migraine-fighting benefits of magnesium along with other additional nutrients including protein, essential vitamins, and zinc. They are also incredibly easy to make and an affordable option to include in one’s daily food regime. Almonds Almonds are one of the best foods for migraines as they contain magnesium and essential fats and fiber, which can also bring overall health benefits to individuals.
6 hypertension symptoms that require immediate attention
health

6 hypertension symptoms that require immediate attention

Hypertension occurs when one’s blood pressure rises to higher than normal levels. The pressure of blood fluctuates throughout the day based on the activities one indulges in. But when one develops hypertension, they risk suffering from severe health complications like a heart attack, stroke, and even heart disease. Therefore, it is important to learn about the symptoms of high blood pressure so that one may seek treatment at the earliest. Severe headaches A spike in blood pressure may trigger unbearable headaches. Severe headaches might also be accompanied by other symptoms like perspiration, anxiety, confusion, and palpitations. Atrial fibrillation Hypertension may cause the heart to push excessive blood to different organs of the body, including the brain. However, too much force may damage the arteries and cause them to weaken. A weakened artery may become blocked by a clot or plaque buildup, which could increase the risk of atrial fibrillation — an irregular heart rhythm that could lead to blood clots in the heart, and put one at risk of stroke. Breathing difficulties High blood pressure may result in the lack of oxygenated blood moving from the heart to the lungs through the pulmonary arteries. Therefore, an individual may develop pulmonary hypertension and suffer from symptoms like shortness of breath and pain in the chest.
5 common mistakes to avoid while buying medical insurance
health

5 common mistakes to avoid while buying medical insurance

Medical insurance is a crucial investment as it offers individuals and their families financial security and peace of mind. But sadly, many people do not research well and buy a policy in a hurry. As a result, they make several mistakes, which lead to inadequate coverage, denied claims, and unexpected expenses. This article highlights the common mistakes to avoid while buying medical insurance that could prevent you from enjoying its benefits. Failing to understand your healthcare needs A significant mistake people make is not fully understanding their healthcare needs before purchasing insurance. Experts recommend you take the time to assess each family member’s health situation, any ongoing therapies or treatments, frequency of doctor visits, and specialist consultations, and buy a suitable package that covers these costs. Not researching the available options The medical insurance market is vast, with hundreds of plans from different providers. Not researching your options can lead to missed opportunities for better coverage at lower costs. So, take the time to compare plans from different providers, review the coverage details, and evaluate the company’s network of healthcare providers, deductibles, copayments, and premiums. Buying insufficient coverage You may have to bear the burden of expensive medical bills if you neglect the policy’s coverage specifications.

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Air filters – types and cost
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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
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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.