You often hear that water is the staple of life. Did you know it makes up around 95% of our brains? All those people who insist on proper hydration are definitely onto something. But when you drink water, when you make your food with it, what else is in there?

There are a great number of factors that influence the quality of our water, both in urban and rural environments. You can read a comprehensive study on this matter at this link. Meanwhile, you are probably interested in your own home and what you, your family, and your pets are exposed to every day. So here is a handy guide on how to figure out its condition.

Having your water professionally tested

Okay, yes, we know everybody flinches when it comes to “calling in the pros”, mostly because that means something will cost you money. But honestly, it is still a way smaller price to pay than blundering around in the dark. Having the quality of your home water tested by a legitimate lab is the best way to go if you are not sure what you want.

Think about it: what kind of contaminant are you looking to identify? The “quality of water” is a compound notion and there are several different dimensions to it. Are you worried about excess chlorine? Weird colors? Do you think you might have a rogue population of bacteria running in your pipes? Or do you want to “test for everything”? You have to get specific to get any results.

Go to a reputable laboratory and share your concerns with the technicians. From your descriptions and the data they have about the area aquatics, they will be able to recommend a proper course of action. It is also a good idea to do one in-depth wide-sweeping test, and then use that to determine what might need to be monitored at an ongoing rate.

Testing your water on your own

Supposing that you still prefer to give your own home chemist skills a try, there are several ways that you can do this on your own. You can find the most easily doable strategies at this link: https://www.wikihow.com/Test-Water-Quality

The most straightforward way would be to use a home water testing kit. Basically, there will be several strips coated in various reactants, and they will change colors to indicate that a given substance is present in your sample. You can buy these online or at some home improvement centers. You might even take a look at better-stocked gardening shops, since there is certain plant life that is sensitive to water quality conditions.

These kits are usually able to test for pesticides, chlorine, nitrites and nitrates, lead, bacteria, hardness level, and pH values. Their big downside is that they are fairly inaccurate, and they will not test for everything that is potentially harmful. Moreover, there are certain kinds of contaminants that the kits will not pick up unless their levels are very high.

So, if you are concerned about safety and health, a home testing kit is not a legitimate assurance. An independent laboratory is still your best choice – just steer clear of those that insist on peddling you some fancy filtration solutions. If they are aiming to sell you something, the credibility of their test results is questionable.

What are the most common contaminating substances?

Like we keep saying, the things that influence the condition of your water supply are numerous, and not all of them are necessarily bad. On the other hand, not all of them are safe to disregard, either. The specific substances that you might find in your sample will depend largely on your geographic area, the condition of the local infrastructure, and the state of your own home’s pipework – its age, maintenance, etc.

Even so, there are a few things that can be considered universal, so we decided to list them here for your convenience.

Chlorine is a necessary presence in any settlement’s aquatic infrastructure, especially in urban areas. A small amount of it is always present in the pipes, because it makes sure there would be no microscopic organisms splashing around, making mischief. That said, an excess of chlorine content can give water a nasty scent and upset some people’s stomachs, so there are many filters offering solutions for that. Learn more about water filtering at waterfiltermania.com.

Bacteria can be divided into harmful and nuisance. Harmful bacteria are those that cause diseases. The most widespread ones are Coliform, Fecal Coliform, Fecal Streptococci, and Escherichia Coli. Nuisance bacteria are not necessarily harmful, but they secrete sulfur and iron. These guys are the film on the surfaces of wells.

Sulfur, in the form of hydrogen sulphide, is what makes water smell like rotten eggs. It can occur naturally (like in some hot springs), and is sometimes the byproduct of local bacteria.

Iron and manganese cause discoloration, leave stains on fixtures and laundry (especially iron, it ruins anything white), and they give a bitter taste. Excess iron will color the water orange, yellow, or brownish, whereas manganese will make it purple or black.

Whitish-yellowish crystalline flakes that form on pipes and containers are sediments of a salt known as calcium carbonate. This is what makes water “hard”. In itself, it is not dangerous, though if allowed to accumulate it can wreak havoc on your appliances. Look into water softening solutions if you notice calcium carbonate buildup anywhere in your home.

Grit and sand are common, a little annoying, but harmless. Basic filters get rid of them nicely.

Lead is a silent hazard which can infiltrate from pipework. Typical causes are leaded solder or old plumbing components made of brass. Lead is a neurotoxin, so even small amounts are a danger. If you already know that you have brass components installed, or faulty solder, or if you detect any lead traces in your samples, take measures to get rid of it all right away.

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

The hydrangea that most English of English garden plant seems to be struggling with the UK record breaking temperatures. With delicate leaves designed to collect the most energy from the available sunlight hydrangeas growing in full sun suffered this summer on the hottest days with many wilting and the leaves burning. As we seem sure to encounter more record breaking temperatures on sunny summer days growing hydrangeas in full sun light become something of the past as they will now be best grown in partial shade under trees or other forms of shade. 

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

Starling from the end of May until then end of September it’s a great idea to take your house plants from your house and place them outside for a much need holiday. With a better level of light and and some rain washing off all the dust that’s accumulated on the leaves stems and buds they will benefit greatly. 

House plants are not naturally at home in your house with the dry heat from central heating. The most popular plants are plants that can handle dry heat although it not ideal thats why often house plants do well in kitchens and bathrooms as the heat in these areas is often more humid. 

The other key is to match your house plant with the level of light in a certain area of a room. The same as your garden plants house plants of different types have evolved to thrive at different light levels. For example peace lilies do well and flower in low light levels and dracaena thrive in higher light levels. 

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

This might sound like one of those insufferable “back to basics” kind of posts, but bear with us for this round, mkay? After all, even if you are a jaded veteran of virtual datespaces, there is always going to be somebody new on the playing field.

So, when it comes to finding your perfect ladyboys online, there is never a shortage of hunting ground. A brief Google search will net you a myriad of sites and apps where you can date a transgender person, and these environments are typically also ladyboy-supportive.

That said, even if it easy to find a prospective alternative lady for casual company, or a new friendship, or even a committed romance, it may not be so easy to be sure that what you see will be what you get. That is why for this occasion we have put together a little guide for staying safe in the whirlpools of online dating. And these come from experienced minds who navigate some of the busiest trans dating platforms, so keep your eyes peeled!

What you need to keep an eye out for

The first and most obvious hazard is a fake identity. False profiles are such a common thing that nobody really gets surprised anymore (other than the unfortunate victim, that is). This same phenomenon is also present in the transgender dating pool, ladyboys included.

Online romance scams are one of the most common types of scam scenarios, where a dirtbag will pretend to be a friendly, attractive woman, pretend to be somehow vulnerable and in need of a good man to save “her”. They even got more refined with the imaginary reasons for “needing” your money. So how can you stay sharp about this?

It essentially boils down to watching out for money-grubbing moments in communication. Any ladyboy you start chatting with will most probably be from somewhere in Asia (typically from Thailand or the Philippines). These countries have a rather low average earnings rate, compared to Europe, America, or just western countries in general.

Now, the ladyboys themselves tend to prefer western partners, because they are more open-minded about relationships with transgender persons, but there are also those (unfortunately) that will prefer your western wallet. So watch out for moments in messaging when they try to get money, try to get you to buy them something (and possibly ship the purchase to Asia), or try to eke out any piece of your personal or fiscal information like a credit card number, email, or location. Check out this comprehensive article for some handy instructions on how to recognize and handle online dating scammers and their tactics.

How to stay safe in online dating

There are a few universal measures you can take to keep yourself from getting tricked by a pretty picture and a sob-y love story.

First of all, absolutely never send money to someone whom you do not know in real life. This is a fairly obvious thing and you might be rolling your eyes right now, but keep in mind that this precaution applies to more than cash. To begin with, relationships in Asian cultures simply do not work like that. A girl will not ask online chat partners for money or anything like that if she is right in the head (and in the moral compass). A ladyboy asking for any kind of funding is already a major red flag.

Along with direct requests for cash, there are a few other popular swindling tactics. They include asking for gifts or travel tickets, using your photos or messages as material for blackmailing you, or spinning some sad yarn that will make you pity the “girl” and send her money of your own accord. Those guilt trippers are the worst of them all, because you might be so wrapped up in your desire to help your Asian damsel that you will not even notice that you are being led by the nose. Learn more about dating and romance scam schemes at this link: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/types-of-scams/dating-romance

Second of, stay on the native platform. This cannot be emphasized enough. Stay on the platform. Your dating app or site can only monitor communication on their own servers, meaning that they cannot mediate a problem that happened in another online environment. Scammers know this, so they try to lure you away. They will ask for your email, phone number, Facebook name etc. Do not give it out until you get to know them better, and even then always make screenshots or save the transcripts.

Third of, leave your personal details out of the picture. Literally. Do not photograph yourself in a location that can reveal your residence, such as in front of a street name plate, in front of your home, near a recognizable landmark etc. Keep your address and real name to yourself and never share a picture that showcases a document, like a government-issued ID, a bill in the background, or a membership card for anything.

How to stay safe in offline dating

Have your first few meetups in public places. Cafes, popular parks, restaurants, and city squares are good starting choices. Leave the cinemas and theaters for later, if you decide that there should be a later – these are dark and discreet places, and therefore conductive to shady behavior.

Also, employ a safety network. Pick one or several friends or family members, and inform the about your date and the itinerary. Share your date’s name, photos, and any notable characteristics. Tell them when and where you are meeting, how long you intend to stay, what time you expect to be back, and keep them updated when you switch locations during the date.

Always make sure you can get away if needed. Have your own transport ready, always have cab fare, and keep your phone charged so you can call for a ride anytime. You could also arrange with a friend or family member to come pick you up.

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

If you are a bird lover, you might want to attract them on your backyard. Most homeowners love the view of these feathered woodpeckers because they bring color to the garden. Lots of people want to experience the wonders of nature and just take a break from the daily hustle of life. The feeders can also help the parent feed their young and this encourages healthier bird species. 

When it comes to feeding especially setting a place for the woodpeckers to eat, a homeowner should choose the best feeder for his backyard. When birds are properly fed, they are very fun to watch, and they become more energetic. The extra boost of calories can also help them becomes survivors of the harsh winter climates.

Food for Woodpeckers

These birds mostly dine on nuts, berries, sap, fruits, and pines. They are also enticed by suet. The suet cake can be placed on cages and wires for easier access. There are a lot of suet cakes available in many stores and aviaries. 

Most birds will be attracted to your home when you offer black oil sunflower seeds, grapes, apples, and raisins. Near the suet, you can create a snag where the woodpeckers can nest comfortably. The snag can be made up of old stumps or dead trees. Most birds prefer to build a home on rotting trees so that they can easily get nest holes.

Here are the Best Feeders to Choose From

1. Cages

You can place the suet cake inside a metal basket. This is a very inexpensive kind of square metal with lots of square holes where the birds have access to food. There are even square baskets that were attached to the sides to provide a place where the birds can stand on. Smaller square baskets are perfect for smaller species such as the Downy woodpecker. But if you want to see larger ones, you need to get a suet cage that will fit them comfortably.

2. Tail Props

Most homeowners choose a feeder with tail props because it attracts more birds to their property.  This is because as woodpeckers are naturally accustomed to feeding on a tree, they have their tails securely prop on the trunk. To feel more secure, most woodpeckers will prefer that their two feet and tail are in contact with something. If you have a tail prop, the woodpeckers can safely start banging their heads and feel more secure. The tail prop will make the feeding similar to that of their natural habitats. 

3. Plugs

There are suet plugs that can give a more natural look on your garden. These are the kinds of feeders that look like a log but with holes on the sides. Some plugs are shaped in a short circular roll to fit the plug. You can even put suet cakes in the shape of Twinkies for added design. This design is more comfortable for the woodpeckers as there are no plugs to limit their pecking. The vertical log will also mimic the trees where they frequently feed so expect that they will always come on your garden for food.

4. Balls 

Some of the most popular feeders are suet balls. These are ingredients that were formed into balls for woodpeckers to eat. Different sizes and ingredients are depending on the kind of bird that you want to attract on your backyard. Large suet balls have lots of spaces between the wires. They are very comfortable and provide easy food for your feathered friends. The small nuggets are treats for many species. They are not just made exclusively for woodpeckers. They are filled with nuggets which the birds can gobble up very quickly. 

A Final Word

When you are shopping for the best feeders, you need to know the right kind that will attract birds in your backyard in no time. You should choose something that can comfortably hold suet cakes, balls, plugs, peanuts and more for a few days. You should also consider protecting your feeder from weather elements such as rain or snow. Having a backyard with lots of colorful birds are a lot of fun. Start setting up your backyard today.

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

For many people buying a house with at least a small garden is a lifelong dream. There’s nothing better than spending a nice, relaxing evening outdoors after a hard day at work. But if you work long hours, you probably don’t get many opportunities to enjoy such moments. Once you come back home, it’s already dark and going outside doesn’t seem so appealing anymore. You’ve probably spent a lot of time working on your garden design and looking for ways to make it look even more inviting. It’d be a shame to let all that hard work go to waste by staying inside the house during your free time.

It’s summer, and your garden is now presenting itself in its most beautiful form. Green leaves are decorating the trees. The flowers are in full bloom. Everything is lively and full of energy. And you’re missing it because you’re busy with your daily life. When you finally have a moment for yourself, all of it will already be hidden in the dark. But is sun really the only lighting you can count on in an outdoor setting? Of course, it isn’t. There are many lighting solutions available on the market to choose from. You can implement them in your project, and transform your backyard into a unique, one-of-a-kind space.

Gain more space

Most people treat their gardens and houses as two separate things. There’s the interior of the house, and then there’s another area that you can spend time in, but they are not really connected. It’s a wasted opportunity. With a good plan, you can easily transform your patio into the building’s extension and gain additional space. By installing lamps around the sitting area, you can create something like a living room but in the fresh air. Having friends over for dinner will be even more enjoyable in such surroundings. Plus, there are many models of sun canopies for patios available on the market. If you find the right one for your house, you’ll be able to shield yourself from the scorching sun on hot summer days.

Make your garden visible

While the specific elements will depend on the location and weather conditions, a perfect garden is not just about plants and trees. It’s about decorations, pathways, and furniture as well. If you live near the beach, you can try to bring some of it to your backyard by utilising sand in your project. On the other hand, if you live in a rainy place, paving may be a better idea. When done right, a simple design can turn into a piece of art and, by installing outdoor lighting, you’ll be able to admire it at any time.

Enhance your project

When you want to showcase a certain element of your interior design, you use light to highlight the area. The same can be done in your garden. Proper lighting can bring out the beauty of any object, so it’s worth considering such a solution. Even a lamp you decide to install can in itself be a decorative element. Just look for models that will complement the rest of the project. However, if you’d rather have more subtle lighting, which will brighten up your evenings but go unnoticed during the day, go for in-ground lights.

Keep intruders at bay

Of course, you want your house and its surroundings to look great. That’s why you’re willing to spend your time and money on achieving this goal. But ensuring security is an equally important thing. After all, nothing in the world matters more than the safety of your family. Lighting up your backyard can become a solution to both of these issues. Keep in mind that most break-ins happen at night. It’s not a coincidence, darkness provides great cover. But it’ll be difficult to get to your house without being seen if there are lights all around.

There’s no denying that we all like to feel appreciated. We like to surprise people with our skills, and we like being praised for our work. Implementing various lighting options in your garden can give you incredible results. And you definitely won’t be the only one noticing it. Your friends and family will love coming over and spending time in your newly created seating area.

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

It was really amazing to see his roof transformation keeping in mind we had similar problems. Deep down, I felt I had found the missing piece of my roofing puzzle. In a week times, I called them up and got mine fixed. 

Are you having similar problems? Here are some of the factors that will influence the cost of your roofing replacement.

SIZE OF THE ROOF

We really don’t have to scratch our head on this one. It is oblivious that the cost of its replacement will highly depend on your roof size.

The larger the roof, the more money it will cost. A large one requires more material, labor, and time to fix.

If it’s not within your budget to replace the entire roof, you can also take the option of partial replacement as you plan your finances.

Make the little gains, and soon, your entire canopy will be replaced.

I really had troubles with my leaking and not so well ventilated roof and until a friend of mine took me to the Three Kings Construction site to have a look at how an excellent and proper roof installation and repairs are done. 

TYPE OF ROOF

People have different taste when it comes to roofing. You might be madly in love with the butterfly ceiling while someone would take a bullet to have a flat roof over his head.

Different shelters require different, attention, modification, and needs than others, and therefore are bound to attract different repairing and replacement cost.

For example, hipped canopies are more complex and expensive to repair than a flat one due to the many extreme angles involved in its constructions.

MATERIAL USED

At times people like you and me make the common mistake of virtually treating the structure the same despite their visual differences.

 There are different types of roofing materials that can be used to build your ceiling. Depending on your taste, the kind of stuff you choose can significantly impact on the cost of your repairs and installation. 

Asphalt shingle is the most commonly used structural material because of its affordable price and easy installation process.

However, if you want something unique and stylish, you can always go for the wood shake, metal tiles, or even slates. You’re going to dig a little deeper into your pockets to have these types of material on your ceiling.

But price shouldn’t be a significant player when it comes to your home, home is special, and you need to design it tastefully.

To read more on the roofing material, click here.

ROOF PITCH OR SLOPES

Another factor that will likely affect your replacement cost is the pitch or slope of it. A steep one is not easy to walk or work on and therefore require more staging installation and labor to fix in the ceiling correctly and more safely.

Additionally, the slope of the roof also determines the type of underlayment installations for your roofing, which in turn affects the overall remodeling cost.

ROOFING SYSTEM COMPONENTS

There are different construction components such as ventilation, decking, and underlayment that make up the essential parts of a good system. This installation can also affect the cost of your shelter.

For instance, if your has troubles with ice dams during the winter and it destroyed your, it would be a good idea not only to replace it but also to install proper ventilation, that help you prevent ice dam in the coming winter seasons.

TIMING OF YOUR ROOFING REPAIRS

Other than the type of roof, construction materials, roofing components, and the ceiling’s slope, the timing of your structural replacements can significantly impact the cost of your roofing repairs and installations.

During the summer season, the demand for these replacements are always high; hence, the roofing cost is always high.

The trick is to schedule your installation during the spring season or late winter season when the prices have fallen. It’s also during this time that you can receive off-season discounts.

TEAR AND DUMP FEES

Replacing your roof means getting rid of the old structure. But you can’t just dump it anywhere and call it a day. There is a fee called tear and dump fee that is paid for disposing it and its material. 

This fee is always on you and depends on the size of your roof. Big ones obviously attracts a higher price.

To learn how to dispose of roofing materials to follow the link below. https://dengarden.com/cleaning/How-to-Dispose-of-Old-Concrete

One Day Gardening Course in your own garden or a GardenAdvice venue     Our one day gardening courses are run in your own garden or at a GardenAdvice venue by one of our gardening experts teaching you about your own garden and how to develop is making it more colourful and easier to maintain. Our courses are tailored to the requirements of the individual and come in three basic formats - New to gardening, Growing your own fruit and vegetables and wildlife gardening. All our short courses include a number of basic elements and wide ranging aspects such as garden design and practical gardening. Our one day gardening courses also come with a years membership to our MyGardenTeam service to support you for 12 months For further details  click here

According to the Vegan Society, 42 per cent of UK vegans made the choice to go meat-and-dairy-free in 2018, showing how rapidly the movement is picking up in recent years…

Whether we’re making a conscious effort to lower our red meat intake or we’re grabbing some compost bags and heading outside to grow our own vegetables for a healthier lifestyle, plant-based diets are enjoying positive press and an enviable limelight. Even outside of complete veganism, many Brits are choosing to reduce or forgo certain animal products, such as avoiding red meat consumption or switching to plant-based milks; it has even been claimed that only 14 per cent of vegan meals are actually eaten by full-time vegans.

A survey by Quality Meat Scotland showing that in Scotland alone, 64 per cent of people are worried veganism will affect the farming sector. Does this highlight that there’s a shift to a more plant-based diet impacting the UK’s agriculture industry?

The impact of Veganuary 

At the start of 2019, a record 250,000 people signed up to Veganuary in the UK — nearly double the amount that signed up in 2018. 

Though the sales of plant-based products obviously increased, this was not apparently at any cost to animal produce sales. Beef, lamb, and turkey were the only products to decline during the period, with processed meats being worst hit. Sales of fish, meanwhile, continued to enjoy overall growth. 

Despite the record sign-up however, a report by Agriland suggested that the figures weren’t reflected in meat, fish, and poultry sales for January. In fact, these markets did not feel any noticeable impact, the outlet claims. 

Dairy reduction 

In July 2019, the Guardian reported that 25 per cent of Brits were opting for plant-based milks. Much like the Vegan Society’s note of veganism shooting up in the UK in 2018, this shift to plant-based milks also occurred during 2018, with a sales surge of 70 per cent for oat alternative milk. 

While the dairy industry could hardly be described as ‘suffering’ for the switch, it is certainly falling from grace. While the over-45 age bracket is still opting for cow’s milk (92 per cent), there’s less demand amongst 16- to 24- year olds (73 per cent). Overall. the go-to health drink of the 50s is consumed far infrequently in the modern day, with the average person drinking 50 per cent less now than in the 1950s. 

But while sales of cow’s milk have decreased, it is still the largest market within the dairy and dairy-alternative industry. Currently, the impact of veganism on the dairy market is deemed minimal, but if the downward trend of animal-dairy continues as veganism rises in coming years, we could yet see that impact increase. The global vegan cheese market is expected to hit $1.58 billion in Europe alone by 2023, meaning consumers are definitely expected to continue to shift away from animal-based dairy. 

Reduction of red meat 

Whether people choose to adopt a vegan lifestyle or simply decide to reduce the amount of meat in their  diets, limiting the consumption of animal products could be detrimental for good health. Red meat has certainly suffered a negative image in recent years, and  a number of studies have posited a link between consuming high amounts of red meat and increasing the risk of cancers of the colon. Therefore, it’s no surprise that people are looking to cut back on it. 

But how is this dietary shift changing the UK red meat market, and indeed, the wider agricultural sector?  

According to The Scottish Farmer, there are a number of factors affecting the red meat market specifically. One is the aforementioned health concerns, and another is the ongoing uncertainty of Brexit negotiations. There is also a push from those who are motivated by environmental concerns and see veganism as a proactive way to contribute towards reducing the impact of climate change on the world. In July 2019, the outlet reported that beef values had declined compared to this time last year, with an R3L steer valued at 353.8p per kg, whereas in 2018 it was valued at 393.5p. It may not seem like a significant figure, but as The Scottish Farmer points out, this means that a whole lorry load of finished cattle is worth £5,000 less this year than it was in 2019. 

Plus, with surveys showing that around 37 per cent of consumers were actively looking to eat less red meat, it doesn’t look like this downward trend in red meat prices isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. While we might not be experiencing a universal switch to full veganism, the growing appeal of a ‘flexitarian’ diet or semi-vegetarian approach has been marked as one of the biggest issues facing the farming sector. 

Reduction of meat overall

One report has suggested that most of the meat consumed in 2040 will not come from animals. In fact, it has been suggested by the year 2040 that 60 per cent of meat consumed will be grown in vats or grown a plant-based source. 

This cultured meat, or plant-based ‘meats’, are touted to be more efficient, less harmful to the environment, and arguably morally sound, given that no animal would need to die for vat-grown meat. The major barrier right now is for this meat-alternative to be financially accessible to all, which is where some say the livestock-based meat industry will continue to trump lab-grown meat for the foreseeable future. 

Currently, the impact of veganism on farming seems to be limited to a small scale, with variables such as Brexit and health matters impacting the red meat market specifically. But with the surge of people choosing to go vegan, it could very well be the case that the effects are simply still in the making. 

Sources:

https://www.statista.com/statistics/315804/agriculture-gross-value-added-in-the-united-kingdom-uk/

https://www.vegansociety.com/news/media/statistics#vegandietintheuk

https://www.plantbasednews.org/post/rise-of-veganism-affecting-beef-farmers

https://www.thescottishfarmer.co.uk/business_sales/17708654.demand-hits-red-meat-sales/

https://www.livekindly.com/red-meat-consumption-down-uk/

https://www.theguardian.com/food/2019/jul/19/plant-based-milk-the-choice-for-almost-25-of-britons-now

https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/business/farming/1728896/concern-over-effects-of-veganism-on-farming-industry/

https://www.worldcrunch.com/opinion-analysis/100-vegan-a-tempting-but-misguided-recipe-to-save-the-planet

https://www.ns-businesshub.com/transport/how-veganism-is-affecting-the-meat-and-dairy-industries/

https://theboar.org/2019/03/rising-veganism-changing-food-market/

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/jun/12/most-meat-in-2040-will-not-come-from-slaughtered-animals-report

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HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems are very good to have in your home, but purchasing the right products is even better. What features should you look out for when making a purchase? What are the aspects you should keep in mind when shopping? This article will give you enough details for a non-regrettable buy.

A complete HVAC system is engineered in such a way that the quality of indoor air in your home will be made as pure as possible. The humidity/temperature levels can also be regulated as you desire. If you need a system that will be suitable for your home, you should consider services like HVAC Norfolk VA to be on the safe side. There are so many factors to consider in the process of installation that should not be taken for granted.

Apart from private homes, other property types that would require HVAC systems include commercial/industrial buildings, skyscrapers, and several others. You should understand the differences in air conditioning, cooling, and heating systems. They are provided as separate systems/units in the market. When installing the system in your home, think of how each unit will fit in an aesthetic sense.

The Separate HVAC Units/Systems

In a complete HVAC system, the air conditioning unit regulates the temperature and humidity levels. Your windows and doors will have to be closed securely for this to be effective. The system will feature vents that will enable the passage of air in and out of the building. You will not have to worry about how much fresh air you are getting unless the system’s internal air filter is faulty.

Some AC systems can work automatically, where the desired temperature/humidity level you set will be maintained without having to regulate it manually. If the system features an evaporator and dehumidifier, the humidity levels will be regulated better.

Heating systems are important for keeping you and loved ones warm during cold weather. Some sophisticated types can provide hot water, but they are more expensive. Ensure that you hire trusted HVAC experts for the installation of the system. They should be able to check for issues like gas emissions that can be harmful to human and animal health (pets).

To ensure that the quality of indoor air in your home is healthy, the type of ventilation system that will be installed should not be taken for granted. Apart from gas emissions, there are other pollutants like particles, odors, radioactive gas, dust, and so on which can only be expelled by an efficient ventilation system. Try mechanical ventilation for a change, if you feel that the natural method is not working as desired. Read more about that here.

Hiring HVAC Experts in Norfolk VA

Better HVAC technology is still being developed for greater performance and suitability in the homes of consumers, no matter the structure of the property. The innovative ideas are targeted at improving features such as functionality, compatibility, design, and other aspects. 

If you are a resident in Norfolk VA, ensure that your chosen experts have the necessary certification and other professional requirements. Certified. They must have the necessary experience to handle new tech in case your budget can handle the expenses. The firm’s reputation as regards the rate of customer satisfaction should also be considered.

It is advisable to be in contact with experts who can attend to issues with your HVAC units/system at any time of the day (24/7). This is good in case of an emergency. You do not want to be freezing during the winter or nearing suffocation in your home at any point in time.

Homeowners should exercise some level of patience in deciding which company to hire for the installation/repair of their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units/system. They should learn as much as you can about the products available in the market before placing your order.

Read more about that here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heating,_ventilation,_and_air_conditioning

For property owners, the health of the tenants needs to be considered. That fact that you are not an occupant of the building should not mean you should install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that are below par.

With the information contained in this article, regrets can be avoided. The systems can cost a lot to acquire so you must make that non-regrettable buy. High quality products should be targeted regardless of whether it is an old or new property.

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A HVAC unit is an essential device for your home because it heats and cools your home. When you install a first-rate HVAC unit, you can say goodbye to extreme summer and winter temperatures. 

Have you have ever wondered how the HVAC in your home works? Well, let the professionals at  https://www.dmselectservices.com/fairfax-station-va-hvac-repair explain. 

Types of Heating and Cooling Distribution Structures

Knowing how each type of distribution structure works, will give you a clearer understanding of how the one in your home works.

Forced Air – This mechanism uses a blower to push cold and hot air through metal ducts. The hot and cold breeze are pushed through different ducts but that is dependent on whether you’re using the air conditioner or furnace. 

These systems are prone to blowouts and as they malfunction or stop working as they get closer to their lifespan. There are volume issues with the cheaper ones. 

Gravity Systems – These function along with the “hot air rises and cold air sinks” theory. Therefore, gravity and air conditioning mechanisms cannot be used jointly. Gravity mechanisms are installed in basements. When turned on, the hot wind goes the ceiling, heats your home then falls when it cools. The cycle continues. 

Radiant Systems – These are similar to gravity systems in that you can’t use them along with air conditioning ones. Radiant heating heat rooms via heat devices such as radiators, which circulate heat throughout a room. The main disadvantage of using these is that the pipes used to carry hot water tend to breakdown because they deteriorate or there’s a buildup of mineral residues.  

HVAC System Parts and their function

Understanding how the different parts of your HVAC unit works is important. Although there are several models with special features, there are few differences between them. Each unit has four major parts.

1. Furnace: The furnace contains a heat exchanger that burns oil or natural gas that heats the air to the correct temperature. The furnace is usually placed inside in the basement, attic or a closet space designed solely for it.  
2. Air conditioner: This device is placed outside. Electricity and coolant liquid in the air conditioner lower the temperature
3. Ductwork: This is the transport mechanism whereby both hot and cold air are carried to every section of your home.
4. Thermostat: This is the core of the HVAC unit. It works like a switch to turn the unit on and turn it off. It also regulates the temperature and controls other special features you might have installed with your HVAC.   

The core of the HVAC System

The thermostat is the heart of your heating system. It is heat-sensitive. It controls the temperature in your home and responds automatically to the present temperature.

When you establish the set point, the temperature is set manually and the thermostat will respond by turning off the furnace if the temperature does not correspond with the set point. The bimetallic element is the key component that either contracts or expands when there is a change in the temperature inside your home.

Older thermostats models have two visible contacts. The bimetallic element bends as the room cools and contact electronically before the second contact is made. The second contact results in activating the system, and this starts the heating mechanism.  For more info check this URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heating,_ventilation,_and_air_conditioning

Modern thermostats

Modern thermostats don’t function like the older ones since the contacts are closed to the elements. They are protected behind glass.  As the temperature falls, the contacts straighten. A steel bar and a set of magnets close the contacts to complete the electrical circuit whenever the temperature gets too low.

It works directly in the opposite way when you have to turn off the furnace.

Modern thermostats are more accurate than the older models. They also last longer because the electrical contacts are protected behind glass.

Conclusion

A HVAC system is not a complicated device. Basically, it is a furnace and an air conditioning system. The thermostat controls the way your unit works.

If you are planning to install a new HVAC unit in your home, you need to do a thorough research. Select several companies and ask for quotes and get a professional to come and do an inspection of your home. The costs will be dependent on the type of house you have and its layout.  

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