Tuesday, September 8, 2015

What's an Orange Pickle?

I've been pickling my own jalapenos for a long time now. I do them in the traditional style with carrots and onions, but the carrots always get eaten within the first few days. To remedy this, I decided to start pickling carrots in big batches too!
Pickled carrots are a lovely condiment and side dish for so many foods - we eat them all the time! Plus, they work well with loads of flavors, so you could even do a jar of sweet carrot pickles and a jar of savory ones.

Step 1: Ingredients + Tools

Ingredients

  • 6-12 carrots - it'll all depend on the size! Mine were teeny so I used 12.
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 1 1/4 cups vinegar (white and apple cider work well!)
  • 1-2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • whatever spices and herbs you like! I used probably a teaspoon of extra herbs/spices all together.
  • additional veggies - you can sneak in some garlic, onion or peppers here, too.
The great part about this recipe is you can flavor the carrots however you like! Make sure to add a little more sugar for sweet combinations like cinnamon or fennel. Cumin is great with carrots, too. Today I'm just using some peppercorns, a bayleaf and some oregano to keep them tasting like my pickled jalapeños.
These pickled carrots stay nice and crisp - if you'd like them to be softer, you should put the carrots and the pickling liquid in a small saucepan and cook them for a few minutes and then pack them into the jar.

Tools:

  • 32 oz/1 liter canning jar
  • glass measuring cup

Step 2: Clean your canning jar

Wash the jar, lid and all extras in VERY hot water. You want this as clean as possible since you'll be storing food long term in it.
Once it's washed, set it aside on a clean towel or rack to dry.

Step 3: Peel and slice the carrots + other veg

Peel and slice your carrots on the diagonal - 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinner is better if you want the carrots to be soft!
Slice up anything else you're putting in, too. I'm also adding four serrano peppers because Tyler kept saying "Make it spicy! Make it spicier!!"

Step 4: Pack your carrots into the jar

I normally do this as I cut them up, just to make sure I've got the perfect amount. 
Try to fill the jar to right below the bottom of the rim.

Step 5: Heat up your pickling mix

Combine the vinegar, water, salt, sugar and herbs and spices (and garlic if you want it!) into a large microwave safe measuring cup.
Heat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes or until the mix is about 190-200 F.

Step 6: Pickling + storage

Pour the hot pickling liquid over the carrots.
Let the jar sit open on the counter until it cools down enough to comfortably handle (or reaches room temp) and then close it and pop it in the fridge. The carrots will soften slightly during this time, so let it hang out for a while!
The pickles can be eaten as soon as the liquid cools, but I find they taste best after a couple days in the pickling liquid!
These pickles will stay good for around a month if stored in the fridge, though ours rarely last that long. :D
Enjoy! I'd love to hear about what flavor combinations you guys use.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Top 2 Secrets on Lawn Care

Top 2 Secrets on Lawn Care


"September was made for growing grass. Start a new lawn or improve upon an existing one and achieve the results you've always wanted."

Fall's the best time for growing, sustaining and perfecting your lawn. September was made for growing grass. Cooling temperatures, moisture and conditions conspire to make soil ideal for seeding. With a little work, fertilizer and seed, your lawn will be healthy.

  • Finish mowing for the season
  • Easily take care of leaves
  • Establish right soil
  • Fertilizing & Reseeding

Mow the Lawn Once More

You should continue mowing your lawn throughout September. The last time it's cut, leave it slightly taller than usual to better absorb nutrients and moisture in preparation for winter.

"Mother nature intended for leaves to kiss the ground. Lay there. Return nutrients to future generations."

Leaves, Leaves and More Leaves

As long as your lawn is not completely blanketed in leaves the last time you mow, go over the leaves with your lawn mower vs. raking, It may take a couple of passes, but the finely chopped leaves will help retain moisture and return nutrients to the soil.

The Secret to a Healthy Lawn

Lime application is often forgotten in creating a healthy lawn. We know our lawns need fertilizer, weed-n-feed and water. How about healthy soil? Soil is the foundation for which every plant is "built" upon. It is both the catalyst for growth and stabilizer for acidic creating suitable soil.


What is Lime?

Lime is basically calcium and magnesium. Yes, it is the very same chemicals removed from hard water. The components of lime facilitate the uptake of nutrients and the growth of healthy microbes, and are almost like little pathways or the arteries to each grass seedling providing the very nutrients needed for proper and healthy growth. It also has a double purpose of removing dangerous toxins like aluminum and manganese, Commonly, it is found in a powder or as pellets in most stores like Ace Ace Hardware. Both lime powder and pellets work equally fine and only vary depending on your method of application. 

What Lime Isn't?

Lime is not a fertilizer, pesticide or insecticide. It isn't mulch, compost or anything similar in nature and is in no relation to the fruit. 

Fertilizing

Fertilize after Labor Day and the first week of November. Look for a slow-release fertilizer, low nitrogen and high phosphates. Spread ferterlizer evenly - using 1/2 for shaded areas. Any home garden store should be able to help choose a formula.  

When Do I Apply Lime?

Regardless of the situation, check the pH of your soil. Georgia clay soil is already slightly acidic. With the proper maintenance can become the ideal soil for a beautiful lawn. Oddly enough, the reason is our own doings. In most cases, the very things we add in the spring and summer for that beautiful green lawn are actually changing the composition of your soil structure.

The only time to apply lime is in the fall and early winter when temperatures are colder. Some say it's okay in the spring, but several independent university studies have shown this damages the soil. Therefore, the conciseness is that application in warm and hot periods will damage lawns.. The key thing is to apply when it is cool, but not so cold that the ground is frozen and make sure there is no impending rain within the next 24 hour forecast. This is very important in preventing any runoff.


Fig. pH Ranges for soil

Once or Yearly

Never apply lime more than once a year. This will cause irrefutable damage. Even if the pH level is not completely on target after application, your lawn should be okay for the next season and you should be able to close the gap in the next seasons. If your lawn is already healthy, you only need to apply lime every three years. However, check the pH level first to make sure it is needed.  Unused lime can be stored indefinitely. There is no need to discard unused lime.

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Have You Kept Up With Your Composting

Winter composting and other useful reader suggestions

Trash Talk is always impressed by the efforts people make to reduce, reuse and recycle. After last week's article about creating a three-bin system for garbage separation in the bathroom, Ben Collings and Jeanette Dunke sent an email describing their own bin system for composting all through the winter in their garage in Fergus, Ont. where…


Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Deflated Reviews


False Reviews

With the internet and social media ever so present in our lives today, online reviews have become fundamental to consumers. The problem? What you read is not always true. Like most items found on the internet, there’s usually very little factual truth backing up claims.

“I saw it on the internet so it must be true…”

Popular Avenues

Most consumers have taken to sites like yelp.com, angieslist.com, kudzu.com and a myriad of others before doing business. In the last year, social media players Facebook and Google+ have joined the review bandwagon.

  • Yelp
  • Angie’s List
  • Kudzu
  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • BBB

Reading Reviews Makes Sense

Testimonials and reviews have always been a good picture of a company’s quality and service. With the internet age and anonymity, it’s easy to post anything anywhere. The truth isn’t required. Most sites do little to authenticate the review and who’s posting it.

“Joe’s garage could be writing their own positive reviews or even negative reviews about another garage across the street.”


It could be a competitor or even the company itself writing the review. What better way to damage the reputation of a rival business. Worst of all businesses have known this for a while now. The review warfare started. However, all is not lost.

Making Sense of It All

You can still use reviews but you have to take a lot of it with a grain a salt. There are reputable sites and institutions where in all likelihood the review is true.

BBB
The BBB, Better Business Bureau, is and has always been a great place to check a company. They focus more on complaints and there are processes in place making sure it is based on fact.

Google+
Google+ has authentication in place. However, it is reactive. Once a review has been posted, they will take several measures over an extended period to detect the validity. Any information found to be false or unverifiable is removed.

As for other sites, you must master the art of reading reviews. Read the review and ask yourself:

  1. Does it sound like something a consumer would write?
  2. Are there a lot of technical terms a consumer usually wouldn't know?
  3. Does it seem too perfect?
  4. Is every single review 5 out of 5 stars?

What company hasn’t had one unsatisfied customer?

What Should You Do?

You should always ask a company for referrals. This way you know you are talking to an actual customer and getting a true reflection of the company. You should still read reviews. Just pay close attention to the source and what’s being said. Always check the BBB.

Friday, July 17, 2015

Staycation vs. Vacation

What’s a Staycation?

The economy is growing right along with workload. This is good news, right? Of course, this is great news, but it means taking a vacation is practically impossible. Daydreaming you're at the beach in some background desktop photo on your computer for a few moments is downright sad and only reinforces the idea you have no vacation.

Childhood Inspirations

Transporting myself into the private beach photo is probably out of the question. This leaves me with nothing but thinking back to the many hours I spent as a child on my grandmother’s porch at her beachfront house listening to the soothing sound of waves break.

Vacationing Daily

Reminiscing about these times brought me to an obvious conclusion. You don’t have to leave home to create and experience your very own oasis. Just like waves crashing, I love the sounds of a  heavy rainstorm or the many sounds resonating from the woods on a summer night.  To add, wouldn't it be great to have a entertaining area with Tiki torches and outdoor furniture for friends to come over and sit back and enjoy a nice cold drink with a sizzling steak right off the grill.

Creating Your Destination

First, you need to create a private and enjoyable retreat at home to do just these things. That’s simple -- build an outdoor living center with a screen porch. Enclosing part of the deck and then installing a pergola or ultra lattice over a portion will give me both a more private intimate area and an open area for entertaining.

It doesn't cost anything to have someone come out, design your new outdoor living area and get an estimate.  That’s a good place to start. They will have sample materials and 100s of different options to choose from ranging from choice of materials to sunroom styles, e.g., traditional, Florida, 3 Season, screened patios to screened porches, under decking and much more. Go to allphasenow.com and request a free quote and plan your oasis.

Enjoy Your New Oasis 365 Days a Year


You can feel safe with the excellent workmanship and what vacation comes with a lifetime warranty. Depending upon your selection, your new private outdoor living area has a lifetime warranty.  For the same amount of money typically spent on the average vacation, you can create all of this, have it year-round to enjoy and increase the value and investment in your home with added living space. Sure, I will make it back to the beach one of these days, but this will turn out pretty well too.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Hot House? AC & Home Check List

Most have experienced that dreadful day when their air conditioner says “enough – no more.”

Who should read this article?

Having problems now or feel it’s just around the corner? Is your HVAC older than 8 years? Been taking it all for granted? Thermostat won’t go below 80º? Feel like your power bill is way too high? Have no clue about your attic insulation. You need to read this article.

AC problems escalate quickly as do repair costs. Being proactive will save hundreds to thousands. I’ll explain the basics here, but always remember heating and cooling is a complex endeavor that requires training and licensed professionals.



Warning: Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Turning the power off still leaves you at risk of electrocution. HVACS use large storage capacitors for starting and running. Disconnecting power has no effect on the fully charged capacitors. These electronic components are like super batteries only they discharge their full voltage at once.

Getting True Help

A host of predatory companies will charge top money when your AC stops. That’s not us. Sure, we’re a contractor, but we find being upfront and treating you like family is the only way to do business. You may even find the solution to your problem here, so let’s talk air conditioners.

1.       Red flags hinting problems aren’t far off
2.       Checklist for fixing common problems
3.       Power company’s worst enemy: insulation
4.       Replace, Repair and Maintain

Luckily, at AllPhaseNow.com we have 24/7 emergency repair service, maintenance plans and free consultations. Being a full service company, we look at all aspects. In a lot of cases, your existing HVAC is fine and other factors like insufficient attic insulation or duct work are the culprit. It could be as simple as repairing a refrigerant leak.

Signs Your Air Conditioner May Be on Borrowed Time

Most common telltale signs you may be headed for trouble.

·         Continual Service Calls
·         Continually Adding Refrigerant
·         Unit running 24/7
·         Freezing up
·         Not being able to reduce the temperature by at least

·         Unable to get home below 80º
·         Airflow is not that cold
·         Volume of airflow is barely noticeable
·         Extremely high electric bills
·         Temperature variations from room to room or between floors
·         Scraping or banging noises from outside condenser
·         Increasingly loud or revving sounds emanating from condenser
·         Banging or screeching noises from the blower unit inside the house
·         Unusual odors emitting into living space

As a rule, these usually indicate problems with your air conditioner. However, we have an entire checklist you should check first.  As other problems could be the main or a contributing factor.

AC Checklist

Some of these can be DIY. Others require a professional. We’re more than happy to schedule a free consultation, rule out all problems and if you need it, check each and every point for you. With the expertise to rule out all problems, HVAC and beyond, feel confident and the utmost trust we’ll only do what’s best for you.

Clean air filter
Air filters have guides on how often they should be replaced. Typically, 1 – 3 months. However, factors like large families and pets hasten this process. Dirty clogged filters permanently degrade performance and can cause units to freeze short term.

Properly attached cover or face plate
Did you correctly reattach the cover when last changing the filter? Sensors prevent most units from running when it fails to detect the cover. Typically, this presents itself right away. However, an “almost” attached cover can trick the sensors, loosen and detach days later.

Good attic insulation
Can’t get the thermostat below 80º? Attic temperatures reach 170º.  Attic insulation is critical to the comfort of your home. Hot air always rises, right? Not always. Hot air seeks cooler air and expands. Poor insulation does little stopping super heated 170º air permeating into your living spaces.  Sometimes referred to as “80 Degree Syndrome.” The thermostat can’t get any lower. It’s a losing battle.

Before even looking at replacing your air conditioner, it’s very important to get your attic’s insulation to a sufficient level.

Attic Sufficiently Vented
Working attic ventilation is vital. Compare it to cracking a window in your vehicle on a hot summer day. Ridge vents, rafter vents (soffit and gable) and attic fans are most common. Covered over attic vents trap hot humid air. Absorbing ever more heat and humidity degrades and ultimately damages insulation and roofing shingles. It’s important air flow unhindered with nothing blocking the flow.

Proper Duct Work
Badly positioned and overextended ducts result in low airflow. Common duct problems range from too many registers (“vents”) off one duct to resistance from too many turns, banks, bends and other issues. An unbalanced system such as this results in weak airflow. Weak airflow is almost as bad as no air conditioning at all.

Insulated Attic Ducts
Air ducts are made from metal. If the metal isn’t insulated, the cold air is warming back up in the 170 degree attic before it gets to you. It’s important every duct and connection point be covered in insulation.

Vent and Register Placement
Vents return air back to the HVAC for cooling. It’s critical that the air flow continue to circulate to reduce the temperature of the air. Without a return vent, large areas of uncirculated air continue to build. This is a common problem where additions have been made to the home.

Working Fuse
Have you had a really bad lightning storm just before you noticed problems? It could be that the fuse on the outside condenser has taken a hit. This is an easy fix.

Clear Area Around Condenser
The outside condenser must be kept clear of grass, weeds and other debris. This critical component cools the air. Debris and weeds blocking airflow to the condenser impair this process and shorten the product lifespan. Having a professional remove the condenser’s housing and properly cleaning out debris has been known to make significant performance impacts.

Condenser Placement
The condenser should always be level, at least 1” from the exterior wall, several feet from a dryer vent and 4” of spacing between multiple units. All of these factors will limit not only the performance but also the lifespan.

Insulation

Most homes have insufficient attic insulation. Power companies love this. You are paying them hundreds you could be putting in your pocket. The problem:
  •          Natural settling and depredation
  •          Gravity
  •          Pressure from stored items and foot traffic
  •          Insufficient job from the start

These and other factors make popular insulations used around the Atlanta area on average only 25% effective vs. when first installed. In these situations, additional insulation needs to be added. This is a cost effective way to save hundreds and extend the life of your existing HVAC if not too late. We have solutions for both adding to and replacing your attic insulation with a far superior product.

Another secret power companies don’t want you to know about is something new called radiant barrier. We use Copperflect which has a long lifespan and insulates against heat coming into the attic. This innovative product can drop you average summer attic from 170º to 90º. Imagine the load that takes off your air conditioner and the end results.

Repair, Replace or Maintain

You can keep up with all this if want or you can let us do all the worrying and upkeep. Try our free consultation to see where you’re heating and cooling is at. Like our friendly and licensed staff? We’ll set up a scheduled maintenance and service plan. Check out the various options.

Thursday, May 14, 2015

AIR CONDITIONER NOT KEEPING HOUSE COOL – MUST READ

Posted on behalf of J.H.:

I want to share a story. Sure, you may think I'm biased. This is a home improvement company's blog. The company is All Phase to be exact. While I don't work for the company, I'm a graphic artist and recently did some contract work.

My Story – MY HOUSE WAS HOT


It starts with the recent heat. Like last summer and the years before, it always seemed our air conditioner couldn't keep up. Cooling the entire house below 80° on hot days was impossible.

We live in the Atlanta suburbs in the typical 90s subdivision. You know… each house 1 of 4 different floor plans, all two-story, master bedroom above the garage and 15ft between houses. Each year, the house seems hotter and hotter.

Over the past few years, we've noticed more and more neighbors replacing their air conditioners. All we could afford at the time was an AC repairman checking the existing unit. It was in working order and the coolant was fine, but he wanted to replace it with a larger unit. Again, we couldn't afford this.

We were stuck. Ceiling fans and additional fans did little. Not to mention, they're only blowing hot air. Tight on money and unable to put window units facing the street, we tried adding a portable air conditioner.

This was a disaster. After going through 3 units, they all leaked, we're loud and you still had an ugly dryer looking vent going out the window. We ended up with water damage and a lot of money down the drain. However, this is another story I won't get into here.

Turning Point


Fast forward to May. It was time for a fix. I now had a connection with a home improvement company. What did it hurt to see what could be done? I knew the existing unit worked and had coolant, but I was ready to replace or add a 2nd unit -- whatever it took.

With temperatures already close to 90 degrees this Spring, they couldn't get out there fast enough for me. We didn't want another summer like the last few years. The problem was getting fixed.

Their guy came out and did an energy assessment. Guess what! The air conditioner was sufficient, working and didn't need replacing. It was the insulation and other factors in the attic. Sure, it’s hot up there, but I assumed my problem was the compressor or condenser outside. Neighbors had replaced theirs? Not only were their gaps and cracks allowing air to transfer between the attic and the living spaces, but the insulation was way below what it should have been. The duct work also needed cleaning and servicing.

I jumped to the conclusion all the houses were built with inadequate insulation. Actually, it was the type of insulation and the fact it had settled over the years. Who knew you were supposed to add insulation after a while? I assumed that was a forget it and leave it type of thing.

He told me this happens in a lot of homes and the insulation was commonly use in Georgia's hot humid weather. Overtime, it settles and foot traffic and storage causes compression. It was only doing a fraction of the job it was meant to.

I can't remember all the technical terms or help you there, but we decided the best option was to avoid this in the future and replacing the existing insulation with spray foam. This filled the cracks and properly restored the insulation to what it should have been. They also installed something called a radiant barrier to fight heat in an additional way.

It has been about a week and for the first time our single air conditioner, the same one there when we purchased the home, has kept the downstairs and more importantly, the upstairs, in the low 70s. I wish I had known all this before wasting money on portable ACs and those $300-400 electric bills we've averaged the past few summers.

Conclusion


If you're hot natured like us and have experienced similar problems, I strongly urge you to look at having an assessment. Your problem may be different, but it doesn't hurt to find out. Do some research... call who you want, but these guys really solved my problem. You can go to their website, allphasenow.com or call them at 770-442-1503.

I'm ready for my next power bill and to compare it with last year's. Well, I take that back… I really don't want a bill, but it will be interesting to see how much I save over the summer.

By J.H.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Money is Going Right Out The Window

Replacing Older Windows is One of the Top 3 Remodeling Projects

With all the problems with pollution, freak storms, warming trends and increasing utility cost, you cannot afford not to choose LowE vinyl, fiberglass or clad windows in new construction projects or remodeling projects. With the savings in heating and cooling bills alone, outdated aluminum and/or single-pane windows are costing you hundreds.

To start with, LowE vinyl and fiberglass replacement windows:
  • Completely eliminate drafts
  • Damper sound coming from the inside or outside
  • Provide zero heat transfer in both the hottest and coldest months
  • Maintenance is almost non-existent
  • Double-Hung, Awning and Casement models allow easy access for cleaning the outsides from inside the home.
  • Window film for privacy and anti-glare protection
Models are available in standard colors, wood grain finishes and custom options. This means the units never require painting inside or out.
Canada is leading the way regulating the use of single pane windows in homes. The energy waste is that important. Don't get caught behind. If similar regulations go into effect in the U.S., you can bet there will be an increase on window prices.

How is all this possible?

First, the frame is completely insulated in foam, comes with dual weather stripping and contains thermal and sound barriers via a multi-chambered sash and frame. In addition, LowE insulated glass with an argon gas barrier reflects heat to the outside in the summer and to the inside in the winter. There is absolutely no transfer of heat between the two panes, multi-chambered sash, and argon gas barrier. This same technology prevents penetration of moisture from rain and humidity.



How can there be so little maintenance?

Lowering the sashes and tilting or swing action depending upon the model allow for easy cleaning.
  • Never chip, peel, crack or warp.
  • Sloped contours repel water to the exterior and away from the window frame
  • Special shielding also prevents derogation from constant UV and direct sunlight’s damaging effects, i.e., fading.
The coating and protective features don’t stop there. They are also resistant to pollution, salt spray and dirt.
Contact All Phase Home Service's today for a free window quote! We have all sorts of promotions for Spring and our windows have won the Most Efficient from Energy Star for 3 years running, 2013, 2014 and 2015

How about security?

These windows provide maximum security and strength with interlocks and double locks at sash meeting rails, vent locks and title latches. They are also built to withstand extreme storm conditions and wind loads. Now that intruders and mother nature are kept in check. What about other security measures? The frames and sashes are completely impervious to insects.

Today's replacement windows are also available in every:

  • Style
  • Size
  • Shape
  • Multiple types of glass
  • Decorative bevels
  • Customized grid patterns
This includes bay, bow, arched, casement, picture and a variety of other window styles. Every window includes a limited warranty for years of enjoyment.

If you still are not convinced your should replace your windows, you need only open your next utility bill. These windows are a surefire way to lower your cooling and heating costs and actually appreciate the value of your home. Windows from All Phase Home Services are also made in the USA – meaning fast, convenient and reliable service. All materials are green and recyclable and meet Energy Star, AAMA and NFRC certification requirements.