THREE STEPS TO MOVING HOUSE

 Most people dread moving house.  And why wouldn’t they?   It’s just hard labour with a fancy name.  But there are ways to make things a little easier on yourself.  Things you can do leading up to moving house that will relieve a bit of the stress and, hopefully, make for a more productive and less strenuous day.

 The trick is to start the process early… very early.

Four to six weeks before before your date for moving house, you should be looking through this list and beginning to check things off.

Furniture is the first thing to plan for.  The initial thing to ascertain is – will your furniture actually fit into the new home?  Are there any factors that may hamper the furniture removals eg restricted access?  Is your home on the ground floor?  It’s a basic concept that still manages to catch a lot of people out. 

 Notify everyone you need to of the change of your address and don’t forget to redirect your mail.  Charities or a garage sale are the best ways to clear out the unnecessary, or unwanted, items from you old home.  Create an inventory of everything you are taking.

 Two to three weeks before the actual relocation, you should disconnect all the essential services and ensure they are active at the new homestead.  Engage some cleaners to give the old home a sprucing up for its new occupants.  Defrost and clean your fridge and freezer the day before you move.  It’s best to pack a bag of things you know you will need straight away, toiletries and the like, take them with you to the new home so you know where they are when you need them.

It is advantageous to employ a professional removals company.  There’s also  another option I came across recently from a Perth relocation professional, Fernando’s Half Price Removals.  This option involves a storage container that is dropped off at your house that you pack yourself.  The removals truck returns, picks up the full container, and takes it to the new home where you get to work unpacking.  A brilliant and unique way of moving house.

If you’re moving house in Perth and looking for a furniture removals company in Perth, hiring a self-packed storage container may be the way to go.  Whatever your choice is, moving house is never easy and it’s always best to be well-prepared and organised to ensure that stress levels remain under control.

Are you ‘irritated’ because your vacuum cleaner filter isn’t doing its job?

Are you fed-up with the constant sniffing, itchy nose and red and watery eyes caused by an allergic reaction to common household pollutants?

Good health is directly linked to clean air.  In fact, according to a leading manufacturer of air filtration systems and vacuums, Filter Queen, cancer, heart disease, emphysema and other respiratory diseases may be caused by prolonged exposure to certain types of indoor air pollution.  Whilst it’s clear that breathing contaminated air will obviously affect chronically ill people, the elderly and young children more severely, it is an issue that everyone needs to be aware of.  Some people may not experience any symptoms until a long time after the initial exposure to the polluted air. 

Scientific evidence shows that indoor air is often more seriously polluted than outside air.  And given that most people spend considerable time at home indoors, it makes sense to think about our ‘home air’.  Some common sources of indoor pollutants are vacuum cleaners, humidifiers and fire places, smoke, household chemicals, unvented clothes driers and pesticides.  The most common indoor allergens are dust mites, pet dander (fluff from cats, dogs etc), pollen, mould and tobacco smoke and the only effective way to eliminate these is by using a special filter queen surface vacuum cleaner.   

However, not all vacuum cleaner filters are manufactured to the same standards, so they won’t all be effective at filtering the air you breathe.  One way of checking to see what level your vacuum cleaner filters is to measure it against the HEPA industry standard (99.97 per cent of pollutants down to 0.3 microns).  If you are concerned about air quality or you or your family are prone to allergies, you may want to consider vacuum cleaners that are superior to the HEPA standards – such as the Filter Queen vacuums and air filtration systems which use filters that filter allergens, dirt and dust at a level of 99.98% down to 0.1 micron.

An effective air filter system in your home will make an enormous difference to your quality of life …. fewer headaches, fewer asthma and allergy attacks, clearer skin, reduced likelihood of colds and flu and a better night’s sleep.

Kids And Karate – Kick-starting A Healthy Lifestyle

Although it’s never too late to start karate lessons, it is a case of the younger, the better.  Aside from the health benefits for kids, karate lessons teach youngsters about interacting with others in a positive and constructive way plus it’s an activity that engenders humility, discipline and a will to persevere and succeed.

Is there an particular age at which kids karate should start ?  Some clubs take kids from around five years old whilst others set the minimum age from 12 onwards.  It’s a matter of personal circumstances and preference, but as the sustained benefits of karate are realised over the long-term, kids should really display some staying power before starting lessons.   

Many parents don’t know what to expect from a school of martial arts.  They’re not sure whether their child will be taught self-defence or whether the emphasis will be on fitness, self-discipline or simply on having fun.  The advice from Grant Rollinson, fourth dan and owner of several clubs that offer kids karate lessons in Perth is for parents to shop around and ask the instructor as many questions as they need to.  “Not all clubs are the same, so look around.  Your child has to enjoy their karate experience, so ask questions and look for the right answers.”

A good instructor will demonstrate the necessity for adequate stretching and warm-up exercises.  They will be taught the history of martial arts as well as the rules.  Their personal safety is vital, and hence they should be taught about preventing injury, how to fall without hurting themselves, about stranger danger and other safety aspects. 

Karate teaches kids about respect, confidence and having a positive attitude.  It is a fantastic activity for both gross motor skills as well as fine motor skills, plus it teaches kids to follow instructions and to concentrate.  They will also learn how to manage their own frustrations and to take steps to turn negatives into positives.

The following testimonial from one of GS Karate in Perth’s customers illustrates the value of teaching kids karate.  ”After only six months of Shotokan karate lessons, the difference in Matt’s report card was astounding,” wrote John and Christine.  They said that his organisational skills and focus had improved dramatically and that his sports teacher had noticed an 80% improvement in his aerobic fitness.  “To see Matt develop resilience and confidence was a dream come true,” they said. 

Menswear fashion flops

We’d all notice a guy if he waltzed into the party with a lime green jacket that looks like it’s been slept in, orange cropped pants, a fedora on his coiffed head and a tight lace vest with a deep V-neck – but would we gasp in admiration at his impeccable fashion sense?  Er, no.  Everyone has the right to express their individuality and flair – particularly when it comes to their wardrobe – but there are some rules…even for the most dedicated followers of fashion.

 Here are some tips on how to avoid the most common fashion mistakes when it comes to men’s wear. 

1.         Big is not better.  Oversized clothing is a common menswear mistake – and it can either make you look too small …or larger than life.  You don’t have to go for the formal wear tailored look every time, but you do have to look as though your clothes actually fit you.

2.         Your clothes are too tight.  The skin-tight look is for the privacy of your own home!.  Even the slightest hint of a muffin-top is an instant turn-off.

3.         Don’t even think about pairing a short-sleeved shirt with a tie.  If you’re after a professional image or even just a stylish image…stick to the long-sleeved shirt with the tie.

4.         Open shoes and socks.  This isn’t a look that even a European tourist can get away with.

5.         Bling overdose.  If you want to dress up your fingers with chunky rings, maybe a knuckleduster in a dark alley is a better bet – you’ll also find the chain gangs there (ie those men who think it’s cool to weigh themselves down with heavy metal around their necks).

6.         Ban all promotional gear and novelty clothing from your public mens wear wardrobe.  It’s OK to wear your corporate freebie or your Disneyworld T-shirt if you’re watching the football at home, but not if you’re watching your boss give his annual presentation.

7.         Wear the pants but make sure they’re not too short!.  Pants should be just long enough to make a slight  break over the shoe.

8.         Always leave the bottom button open on men’s suits, sports jackets, waistcoats and cardigans. 

9.         Only wear creased or crumpled clothing if you want to look like you’ve just got out of bed.  Haute couture models strutting along the catwalks of Paris may get away with a wrinkled and edgy outfit, but the unlaundered look for ordinary men’s wear is a big turn-off.

A South West men’s clothing specialist, Stepping Up Menswear says it’s as important for men to look good at all occasions as it is for the ladies.  Of course, individual style is fabulous, but when it comes to snappy dressing, there are some menswear rules that shouldn’t be broken.

SHEEPSKIN CAR SEAT COVERS – A WARM WELCOME

I am without hesitation in saying that I cannot go past woollen products.  It doesn’t matter if it’s sheep skin carseat covers, moccasins, ugg boots, slippers or even woollen rugs.  Just the same as I cannot bear to wear anything except woollen jumpers and cardigans.

I’ll never forget the first time I got in a car that had sheepskin car seat covers.  It was a cold winter’s day and when I got in the car, I remember the unparalleled feeling of warmth and security that embraced me.  I began to doze almost immediately, so much plush and soft warmth created that nascent state of not being fully awake that is both pleasant and comforting.  Although only young, I remember promising myself that when I grew up and had my own car it would have sheep skin car seat covers.  I have remained true to that promise ever since.  Now it is my children’s turn to snuggle up in their car seats and I drive in absolute comfort and warmth.

Driving should not be an unpleasant experience and having woollen car seat covers is makes it just that much better.

On occasion, I have been accosted by liberal minded people regarding the use of an animal skin product.  I invariably counter this with the fact that the animal was going to be consumed for food anyway and it is ridiculous to not use the other parts for a practical purpose.  It is an interesting debate and it’s always good to hear both sides of the story.

Ithere are many valid points however, when it comes to using sheep’s wool as a by-product from the production of food stuffs.  If we were to discard the by-products of our meat industry, we would be contributing to the waste that is the hallmark of modern society.  In the past, ancient man used as much of a slain animal as they could – as this honoured the sacrific of the animal and kept balance in the world.  There are lessons from the past, and it would benefit mankind to take note of these and possibly revert back to some of these ancient practices.

For all our advancement, we are yet to create or discover anything that can beat out wool for sheer effective warmth.  When I hear people claim a synthetic material is ‘as good as the real thing’, I know it can’t be true because there is no substitute for genuine,  natural wool.

So, for the foreseeable future, I will be driving through the streets of Perth cradled snugly in my sheepskin car seat covers and I will apologise to no-one.

BEWARE OF CHEAP IMPORTS OF EVACUATED TUBE SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEMS

With the growing importance of finding sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to our energy-hungry lifestyles, solar hot water has been attracting increasing amounts of attention.   And the system that is attracting the most interest is the evacuated tube process – which is a newer technology than the traditional flat plate collector, and some people say, a more efficient one.

This increased demand has created opportunities for a whole lot of new suppliers of solar hot water systems coming to the market, and not all have the same approach to quality and customer service.   While consumers may have all the right intentions in pursuing alternative forms of energy, it’s vital that their intentions don’t turn sour because of poor quality.

If you’re considering purchasing an evacuated tube solar hot water system, you may find the following questions useful when dealing with potential suppliers.

• How long have they been in the evacuated tube business ?.  Experience is essential and the performance of the solar hot water system will depend on the quality of the system as well as the quality of the installation.   Ask about the company’s membership with any industry bodies etc.
• Ask about the particular brand of evacuated tube system and how long the company has sold this brand for.  If it’s a cheap import, then it’s likely that it will be a new brand for the company and won’t have an established reputation for quality.
• There are stories of some evacuated tube systems failing after a short time, so always check the warranty periods. 
• Ask about maintenance and service – and find out whether the initial cost of the system includes any future maintenance.
• Be vigilant when looking at the quote to ensure there are no hidden costs (eg insulation etc).
• Quality of the construction materials and the design is vital, so check things like welds (to ensure no leaks), the sturdiness of the mount (you don’t want it to give way in severe wind or weather), anti-corrosive materials, thickness of the insulation materials etc.
• Also enquire about the installers’ qualifications – eg roof plumbing.

An evacuated tube solar hot water system is a more expensive option than the traditional flat panel collectors, but the advantage is that they work more effectively during overcast conditions.  If you are considering investing in a solar hot water system, Perth evacuated tube suppliers Ureco, recommend that you do the research thoroughly before making any commitment.  Read reviews, meet potential installers onsite, ask the questions and get all the information before signing any contract … otherwise you could land up in hot water (for the wrong reasons!).

RAISE THE TEMPERATURE WITH SOLAR HOT WATER AND HEAT PUMPS

Are you thinking about solar hot water but are concerned about living in a cold, cloudy climate or don’t have sufficient roof space?  A solar hot water system that uses heat pump technology may be just what you’re looking for.

Heat pump solar hot water systems use energy from the atmosphere as opposed to relying on direct sunlight – so they can operate year-round.  Perth solar hot water specialists, Ureco, provided some insights into heat pumps and why they are growing in popularity as a clean, green solution for hot water.

What are some of the advantages of using heat pumps for solar hot water ?

Heat pumps are ‘green’ and use minimal energy to operate – meaning they are a viable alternative to conventional power hungry systems of heating water, and they can get heat from the air in all types of weather (rain, hail, day or night).

Does the system have to go on the roof ?

The tank is usually outside on the ground on a solid footing, and no roof panels are required.  Heat pumps can also be installed in an apartment. 

Do heat pumps affect the environment?

If you decide on a heat pump for heating your water, you’ll be able to reduce your carbon emissions considerably.  This is possible because the system only needs a small amount of electricity for the compressor, the pump, fan etc.   

Gas is cheap – so why should I not be using a gas instantaneous unit?

In cities, gas is generally cheaper than electricity, but it doesn’t have the same level of efficiency.   A heat pump solar hot water system is said to be between six and eight times more efficient than their gas counterparts.

You also have the benefit of consistent water pressure regardless of how many taps are running at any given time.  

Will heat pumps operate during bad weather?

Heat pumps are an all-year round performer and won’t freeze in winter or overheat in the hot summer.

We use hot water mostly in the evening, will there be enough hot water by the morning?

Even on a freezing winter night, our heat pumps will manage to recover for use the next morning.

Is there any truth in the story that some heat pumps only heat the top section of the tank?

With Ureco heat pumps, there is very little difference between the temperature at the top of the tank and the bottom. Tests indicate that there was only a four degree variation (in a 300L tank) – so everyone can enjoy hot water even if they’re last in the shower !.  A digital control ensures consistent temperatures and optimum operating efficiencies.

Solar heat pumps are a specialist field, so if you’re considering installing one, it is vital that you select a qualified contractor who understands customers’ requirements and who knows what the optimum positioning is.

BEING ORGANISED IS THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Panicking because you can’t find the cake knife ? Iice-cream cake melting while you hunt for matches to light the candles?  Thirty expectant children looking at you as you desperately think of another activity to keep them busy?  Empty bowls and no more candy or crisps in the pantry?  Crying child with a cut on the finger and can’t find the parent’s contact number?  Gifts that have come adrift from their cards because they’ve been dumped all around the house?   Ah….the nightmare of kids’ birthday parties - but help is on hand.

All it takes is a bit of planning and organisation, some great party ideas and the right party supplies…and you’re on the way to birthday party heaven ! 

A quick search of the internet will give you a wide choice of party supply companies in your area, plus a range of comprehensive checklists to make sure you don’t miss a trick.  From deciding on a party theme, getting the invitations out, ordering the birthday cake, planning the entertainment, child-proofing your home, drawing up the timetable for the big day…every eventuality is catered for - leaving you time to enjoy the big day almost as much as the birthday girl or boy themselves ! 

All too often, birthday parties are stressful occasions with parents too busy and too frantic to actually enjoy what should be a milestone event.  With a bit of forward planning and some advice from the professionals, birthdays can become a day to remember, not one to forget.

Thinking of a home build in Perth? Choose your builder BEFORE you buy your land

Most people only start thinking about their ‘dream’ home once they have bought the land… but the better way to do things is to choose your Perth home builder first and THEN buy the land.

Why?  Well, when it comes to designing homes, most people are amateurs.  They don’t think about which way the house should face, or where the access points are going to be, or if the slope of the land is going to present building challenges or if the neighbour’s walls are going to block out their sun or their view…most people ‘fall in love’ with a piece of land, sign on the dotted line and then face the reality of designing a home to suit the land.  It should be the other way around and that’s where finding the best Perth home builder comes into play. 

Finding a reputable builder whom you trust and respect before buying land can save a whole heap of time and money.  They will advise on what the design possibilities are… and what the challenges or obstacles are (and where there are challenges, there are ALWAYS costs !).  They will help identify if the house will be well-positioned (ie north facing) to take advantage of the sun in winter, where the natural light will come from, the possibilities of benefits from cooling breezes etc.   The home builder will advise on building on a slope, where the driveway should be, what obstables eg trees etc need to be taken into consideration.  They can also help identify if there are restrictions on the property, eg servitudes, height restrictions, sub-division etc. 

Finding a quality builder before you buy a home site can be a major plus when it comes to building your dream home, and if it’s a Perth luxury home builder you’re after, look no further than LRC Builders.

SEEING THE LIGHT WITH CONTACT LENSES ONLINE

Online shopping for groceries, clothes, travel, cosmetics and a host of other items has been growing in popularity in recent times, and the same is true for buying contact lenses and other eye-care products over the internet.

Whilst it may seem strange for some people to purchase something as medically important as contact lenses over the internet, it is actually a completely safe process.  Contact lenses won’t be issued without a valid prescription and reputable suppliers will always have a comprehensive returns policy if the product isn’t suitable.

Buying contact lenses online saves time and money.  After the initial visit to the eyecare professional to get the prescription, all that’s required is a copy of the scrip without any further visits – which is a real time-saver.  Contact lenses bought from online suppliers are also generally far cheaper than buying them from the optometrist – so you get to save money too.  What’s more, you should be able to submit a claim to your health insurance provider. 

Buying your contact lenses on the internet is just the same as buying any other commodity, provided you buy from a reputable supplier such as Student Contact Lenses in Perth, who will issue genuine products with full quality guarantees.  Many online retailers also have a wide range of sunglasses and other accessories as well as eye-care products such as drops, decongestants, solution etc so they’re a real one-stop (savings) shop for all things to do with eyes. 

Buying contact lenses can be a real eye-opener (for all the right reasons of course!) and if you’ve never done it before – now’s the time to try.  You’ll be amazed at how easy, quick, convenient AND affordable it is.