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Landscape Ideas for Front of the House

. Posted by in , • Austin
The front of a house

Are you ready to turn the front of your house into your dream landscape? When it comes to landscape ideas for the front of the house, the options are endless. From flowers to hedges to vegetable gardens, you can achieve any look you want while boosting your home’s curb appeal at the same time.

The best way to achieve your dream front yard is to take your ideas to a landscaping specialist and let them bring them to life.

Landscape Ideas for Front of the House

A front yard allows homeowners to be creative and curate a beautiful landscape. You can wow your guests and turn your front yard into a space that you love to spend time in.

The following landscape ideas for the front of the house are appealing for several reasons. Some are simple to install and maintain, while others require more care. If you want to transform your front yard, … Read Full Post »

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Types of Magnolia Trees

. Posted by in • Austin
southern magnolia tree

Did you know that there are more than 200 species of magnolia trees? In Central Texas, four main types thrive in our warm weather and sunlight: southern magnolia trees, little gem magnolia trees, saucer magnolia trees and star magnolia trees.

Each type of magnolia tree produces stunning flowers that make them the focal point of any lawn or garden. However, they have different care and maintenance needs, so it’s helpful for homeowners to understand the difference between each type.

Southern Magnolia

The southern magnolia tree, pictured above, is beloved for its large, velvety, dark green leaves. It grows larger than other types of magnolia trees, and some can reach up to 80 feet tall. Because of its noble size and appearance, this tree is also known as the “Grand Dame” of the magnolia tree family.

Southern magnolia trees produce beautiful and fragrant white flowers that grow as large as 12 inches in diameter. With … Read Full Post »

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Air Conditioner Fan Not Spinning but Hums

. Posted by in • Austin
an AC unit

When you turn on the air conditioning at home, the hottest, most insufferable days are instantly better. But sometimes, the AC refuses to run. A common problem is the fan not spinning but humming. If you’re dealing with this situation, you likely have a faulty capacitor.

Knowing what a capacitor is will help you understand its role. You can rely on HVAC specialists to fix your capacitor problems. They have the tools and expertise to perform the necessary repairs or replacements. Your AC will soon be up and running again, and everyone at home will be in a better mood.

Air Conditioner Fan Is Not Spinning But Hums: The Capacitor Might Be to Blame

First things first, it’s helpful to know what a capacitor is. The capacitor is a small cylindrical component inside your AC’s outdoor unit, typically resembling a tin can. Think of it as a giant battery for your AC that … Read Full Post »

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How To Spread Fertilizer

. Posted by in , • Austin
spreading fertilizer

Do you know how to spread fertilizer? This is something that is useful for a homeowner to know, but it’s also something a professional can do if you don’t want to spend your weekend spreading fertilizer.

Tips To Prepare for Fertilization

Proper lawn fertilization is important for maintaining a lush, beautiful lawn. However, many homeowners don’t know how to properly spread fertilizer. Once you learn the correct steps, you’ll find that spreading fertilizer doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task.

The first step is choosing the right fertilizer for your lawn’s needs. Factors to consider include the type of soil you have, the species of your grass, and any nutrient deficiencies or pH balances you need to address.

Additionally, some fertilizers are specifically formulated to control weeds or improve the health of your soil. If you aren’t sure what type of fertilizer or how much fertilizer you should use for your lawn, a lawn … Read Full Post »

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What Is a Level 2 EV Charger?

. Posted by in • Austin
an EV charger

Having to stop at the gas station to refuel is part of most drivers routines. But habits are changing now that electric vehicles are becoming more popular. Level 2 EV chargers offer a convenient way to charge your vehicle at home.

So, what is a level 2 EV charger? It’s the most popular home charging method among homeowners for a reason. Here’s everything you need to know about it and how it’s different from level 1 and level 3 charging. Contact a licensed electrician to install a level 2 EV charger in your home.

What Is a Level 2 EV Charger, and How Is It Different From Other Charging Levels?

Electric vehicles usually come with a level 1 charger. However, upgrading to a level 2 unit can save you time. Level 2 chargers deliver an electric current from an outlet to your vehicle through a connector. They use a 240-volt input and have … Read Full Post »

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My AC Is Running but Not Cooling

. Posted by in • Austin
an air vent

Your AC is expected to cool down your home and provide comfort during hot and humid days. But it doesn’t always work that way. If your AC is running but not cooling, it will leave you hot instead of calm and collected. Unfortunately, this is a common problem homeowners face, and there are many possible reasons behind it.

Something is amiss inside your AC if it can no longer do its job. Here are some ways to find the culprit and troubleshoot the problem. However, most AC issues are complex and require the expertise of a pro. If you’re not confident in your DIY skills, it’s better to let an HVAC specialist take over. They can perform the necessary repairs and replacements and have your unit running smoothly again.

What To Do If Your AC Is Running But Not Cooling

ACs have intricate systems. One malfunctioning part can lead to the entire unit’s … Read Full Post »

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The Different EV Charging Levels Explained

. Posted by in • Austin
an EV charging

Electric vehicles are great to have because you never have to make a pit stop at the gas station, but many homeowners don’t realize that charging an EV is more complicated than plugging it into the wall socket. Not only do you need to install a charging station, but you might also need to secure a permit before doing so. In addition, you need to understand the different EV charging levels.

Everything You Need to Know About EV Charging Levels

The Society of Automotive Engineers defined three EV charging levels: 1, 2 and 3. Homeowners typically use level 1 or 2 for EV home charging. Here’s a breakdown of the three levels to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Level 1

Most automakers include a level 1 charger with new EV purchases. You can plug this charger into your 120-volt outlets at home, making it a convenient option. However, never plug … Read Full Post »

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Does Eucalyptus Repel Mosquitoes?

. Posted by in , • Austin
eucalyptus

Mosquitoes are frustrating and persistent pests. Homeowners search high and low for solutions to mosquito infestations, so it’s natural to try anything. One common way to try to repel mosquitoes is to use the eucalyptus plant. But does this method work?

Does Eucalyptus Repel Mosquitoes?

While there is evidence that mosquitoes will tend to avoid eucalyptus, you would need to plant many, many eucalyptus trees in your yard to see any benefits. One or two eucalyptus trees will not make a dent in a mosquito infestation. Highly concentrated eucalyptus oil that has been found to be effective in pest control methods is very different from having a tree in your garden.

For homeowners who want to try eucalyptus as a DIY method to complement professional pest control, you can mix eucalyptus oil in water and spray it around the house and yard. However, using eucalyptus alone is not a sufficient mosquito control strategy.

Additionally, … Read Full Post »

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Can Bed Bugs Live Outside?

. Posted by in , • Austin
a bd bug

Bed bugs are frustrating pests known to take up residence inside homes. However, a little-known fact is that they can also live outside. However, this is rare.

Bed bugs prefer to live inside where they are close to a host that can provide them with a blood meal and hiding spots. They can only live outside for a short period, and they must live somewhere with a high level of human activity.

For example, you may see outdoor bed bugs in these locations:

  • On public transportation
  • At outdoor gathering spaces, such as concert venues
  • In high-trafficked parks and recreation areas
  • At trash dumps that are full of furniture and mattresses

Bed bugs must be near a host to stay alive, so it’s riskier for them to live outdoors, but not impossible.

Indoor Bed Bug Hiding Places

Finding bed bugs inside homes with easier access to a host and shelter is much more common. These pests are also drawn to … Read Full Post »

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What Size Generator Do I Need?

. Posted by in • Austin
a generator on a truck

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Having a standby generator can help keep you comfortable and worry-free during a power outage. If you experience a loss of power during extreme temperatures, it can keep your family protected from the harsh temperatures outside. Having a standby generator can give you peace of mind.

If you want to equip your home with one, the first step is figuring out what size your generator should be and how much power it should generate. You should consult a licensed electrician and plumber when inquiring about standby generators. That way, you’ll ensure your generator will run smoothly and safely.

How to Determine Generator Size for Your Home 

What size generator do I need? It’s important to let a licensed electrician figure this out. They have the knowledge and experience to find the right size standby generator for your home and needs.

To determine the correct size, they will take note of your appliances at home. … Read Full Post »

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