Author: Sonny Lawrence

How to Prevent AC Repair

Sonny Lawrence

A well-functioning AC unit is essential to home comfort. However, it is not immune to breakdowns. HVAC maintenance is essential to preventing breakdowns and minimizing their impact.

If your AC system isn’t producing cold air or making loud noises, there could be an issue with the cooling cycle or a faulty component. The good news is, many of these issues can be resolved with simple AC Repair. Contact Heating And Cooling Van Nuys now!

Dirty evaporator coils can cause a variety of AC problems, including low cooling power, uneven heating in homes and offices, and increased energy bills. Fortunately, this is a problem that can easily be prevented with routine cleanings and proper installation practices.

The evaporator coil in your air conditioning unit is responsible for dissipating heat, so it’s no surprise that this part of the system is susceptible to clogs and other issues. The simplest reason for this is simply a build-up of dust and dirt, but there are other potential causes as well. These include poor installation and lack of regular maintenance.

When dust and dirt accumulate on the evaporator coil, they create an insulating layer that inhibits heat transfer. The cooling process is hindered, and the system will have to work harder and longer to achieve the same results. This is a sure sign that the evaporator coil needs to be cleaned.

In addition to reducing efficiency, dirty coils can also lead to an increase in moisture inside your air conditioner. This moisture serves as a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and other microorganisms that affect indoor air quality. It can also clog the coil fins, further impeding heat transfer and lowering cooling efficiency.

If you notice any of these symptoms, the first thing to do is turn off your AC and unplug it from the power source. Next, use a can of compressed air to blow away any large particles of debris from the coil surface. You can also clean the fins with a soft brush to remove any built-up dirt and grime. Just be careful not to damage the delicate coil fins with too much pressure.

If you don’t feel comfortable opening up your AC unit, you can call a professional. An experienced HVAC technician can inspect the unit and determine if the evaporator coil is dirty. They can then perform the necessary cleaning and maintenance to ensure your air is clean and conditioned. They may also recommend replacing the air filter to help prevent future build-up, as well as checking the refrigerant level to make sure it’s at the correct level.

Failed Contactor

There’s a lot of electrical circuitry in an air conditioning system, and even the smallest failure of a single component can cause an entire system to fail. There are some components that are more likely to experience problems than others, and two of these are the capacitor and contactor – an electrical tag team that work closely together to power up your AC.

The contactor is the component that controls the flow of electricity to the compressor and condenser fan motor in an air conditioning unit. The contactor can get stuck in either the open or closed position, resulting in your AC running nonstop (even when your thermostat is set to “off”).

If you suspect that your contactor has failed, you should start by turning off the power to your AC. This should be done at both the thermostat and breaker box to prevent shock risks.

Next, remove the cover from your outdoor unit to expose the wiring connections. You should find a small, black rectangle that looks like a drawbridge that opens and closes to make or break power supply lines. The contacts within the contactor are connected by metal strips that allow the current to pass through – these can wear down or become welds over time, causing the contacts to fail.

A failing contactor can also produce a rapid clicking noise as it rapidly tries to engage and disengage. This can also lead to visible signs of overheating or a burnt smell, alerting you that it’s time for a replacement.

The arcing that occurs when the contactor fails to engage or disengage causes heat to melt cable insulation and even weld your contactor’s metal contacts together. As a result, your contactor might be visibly damaged, or you may notice that the plastic coating has melted away. In addition to these visual indicators, your contactor might also sound distorted or buzzy when it is defective. These sounds are due to the failure of your AC contactor’s contacts, and they can cause the entire unit to fail. You should call a professional immediately to replace your AC contactor if you hear these sounds.

Failed Blower Motor

Your blower motor is an essential part of your air conditioning system, circulating heated or cooled air throughout the entire home. If it is failing, your system won’t operate as intended. A common sign of a failing blower motor is weak airflow from your home’s vents. This may indicate that the motor is clogged, needs a new capacitor, or is nearing the end of its life. A licensed HVAC technician can determine if this is the case and recommend an appropriate repair solution.

Unusual Noises

Another sign that your blower motor is beginning to fail is unusual sounds that it makes while running. You might hear squealing or rattling noises, which could indicate that the bearings are getting worn out and need to be replaced. A loud banging sound may also occur if something inside the blower is loose or broken. In any event, these sounds should be investigated as soon as possible to avoid a more serious problem in the future.

Increasing Energy Bills

If your electric bills are suddenly higher than usual, it’s possible that the blower motor is struggling to circulate enough air and overheating. The motor uses a lot of power to function, so overheating can cause it to shut down until the motor cools down. This can be very expensive, especially if the motor is at the end of its life and isn’t functioning well.

Before attempting any repairs on your blower motor, it’s important to turn off the power supply to the unit to prevent injury or damage. The best way to do this is to find the red reset button, which is usually located on the back of the blower motor and will pop out if you push it. Once you’ve done this, you can remove the cover and let the blower motor cool down to a safe temperature. From there, you can inspect the motor for signs of wear and tear. If you see any, consider replacing the capacitor or lubricating the bearings to get it back in working condition. The blower motor is an essential component of your air conditioning and heating systems, so it’s important to keep it in good condition to ensure that your home is comfortable all year round.

Failed Thermostat

Thermostats are an important piece of equipment that help your AC and heater function properly. However, like any other electrical device they can break down from wear and tear or from a failure due to a variety of issues. It can be frustrating when your thermostat breaks down, especially in the middle of a hot summer or cold winter. But before you call for AC repair, there are a few things you should try. First, make sure the batteries are fresh. This is a simple task that takes less than a minute. Then, if the display on your thermostat is dark or blank, check the circuit breaker to see if it has been tripped. If it has, simply flipping it back on may fix your problem.

You should also clean your thermostat regularly to prevent dust and dirt from causing problems. To do this, turn off the power source and remove the cover. Then, using a brush or compressed air, clear any dust or debris from around and inside the thermostat. It is a good idea to perform this once a year. Another way to keep your thermostat from malfunctioning is to schedule regular furnace and air conditioner maintenance visits. During these visits, your certified technician will test the wiring connections and catch any signs of wear or damage to your thermostat that could lead to a failure.

Faulty wiring is a common cause of thermostat failure. If the wires connecting the thermostat to your HVAC system are loose, dirty, or disconnected, they won’t be able to communicate. Thermostats also tend to get worn out over time, especially if they are exposed to excessive wear or a lot of power surges.

A failed thermostat can cause your HVAC system to short-cycle, which can increase your energy bills and reduce your comfort. If your thermostat isn’t working the way it should, contact SuperTech and we will help you resolve the issue. We have a team of trained and experienced technicians that can diagnose the problem, offer technical solutions, and help you save money and stay comfortable all year round.

The Benefits of Hardwood Floor Refinishing

Sonny Lawrence

Hardwood Floor Refinishing Bergen County NJ add beauty and value to your home. They are also durable and easy to clean, but over time they can become worn and scratched. Regular refinishing helps protect and extend the life of your hardwood floors.

Hiring a professional flooring contractor is the best way to ensure that your hardwood floor refinishing project goes smoothly and with minimal damage to your existing hardwood.

Hardwood floors are durable and long-lasting, but they will eventually show signs of wear and tear. Refinishing hardwood floors is an easy way to revitalize them and restore them to their former beauty. On average, experts recommend refinishing hardwood floors every 7 to 10 years.

Refinishing involves sanding the entire floor to remove the top layer of finish and reveal the bare wood underneath. Then, the bare wood can be stained or sealed to enhance its look and protect it from further damage. Refinishing is a relatively quick process, but it takes some patience. It’s best to schedule it during a time when your household can be mostly out of the house or away on vacation, as the fumes from the polyurethane will be strong.

The first step in refinishing a hardwood floor is to determine what type of flooring you have. This is especially important if you’ve recently moved into a home and don’t know what kind of floors are in place. Solid hardwood floors are made of solid timber planks that are traditionally 3/4 of an inch thick. Engineered hardwood, on the other hand, is comprised of a real wood veneer that’s attached to an engineered plywood core. Most engineered wood can only be refinished one or two times in their lifetime before replacement becomes necessary.

Before starting the refinishing process, you’ll want to decide what sheen you’d like your finished product to have. There are several options available, from high-gloss to semi-gloss to satin or matte. Each sheen has its own benefits and drawbacks, with higher sheens offering a shiny, reflective finish that can hide small scratches and imperfections more easily and lower sheens providing a more natural, subdued appearance.

It’s a good idea to remove all furniture from the room being worked on, so you don’t run the risk of scratching it during refinishing. It’s also a good idea to close all windows and doors to keep dust contained in the work area. Finally, you’ll want to tape masking film over the baseboards to protect them from the sander and prevent dust from getting on them.

Staining a Hardwood Floor

When it comes to staining a hardwood floor, there are many different options available. Typically, a floor will be sanded down to bare wood before staining is applied. This will give the floor a richer color and help to protect it from damage and wear in the future.

When stains are applied to a hardwood floor, it is important to be careful and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have any questions about the process, contact a professional flooring contractor for assistance. They will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that the results are beautiful.

Before you begin staining your floors, it is important to prepare the area by clearing the room of furniture and rugs. It is also a good idea to cover any vents and apply plastic sheeting to the baseboards to prevent dust and stain from leaking onto them.

Once the floor is sanded, it should be thoroughly cleaned with warm water and a mild detergent to remove any residual dirt and debris. It is important to use pure water for this step, as chlorine can react with the stain and cause blotching or streaking. Once the floors are cleaned, they should be allowed to dry completely before staining them.

Staining a hardwood floor is a delicate and time-consuming process. It is important to choose the right color and finish, and to ensure that the stain is evenly applied. Using a high-quality brush or sponge will help to achieve a smooth and even finish. When applying the stain, remember to run the sponge with the grain of the wood, rather than against it. It is also a good idea to wring the sponge before each application.

When the stain has been applied, it is important to let it dry before moving furniture back into the room. Depending on the type of stain used, it may take a few days for the finish to cure completely. During this period, it is best to avoid walking on the floors to prevent any dents or scratches.

Staining a hardwood floor is an excellent way to add warmth and character to your home. It is a time-consuming and labor-intensive project, but the results are well worth it. With the proper care and maintenance, your hardwood floors will last for years to come.

Sealing a Hardwood Floor

Hardwood flooring has a natural beauty that adds an air of elegance to any home. Because of this, people want to keep it looking its best for as long as possible. One way to do this is by sealing the hardwood floor. Sealing helps prevent stains, scratches and other damage to the wood. It also protects the hardwood from moisture and fungus that could cause it to warp or swell.

Before you can seal your hardwood floors, it is important to make sure they are free of dust, dirt and debris. This can compromise the smoothness of the floors and may interfere with the staining process. Ideally, the floors should be swept or vacuumed before you start working on them.

It is also important to make sure the room you are using to work on the floors is well-ventilated. Many of the products used to refinish hardwood floors will emit harmful vapors that can be dangerous to breathe. Having a window or door open and wearing personal protective equipment will help to ensure that your breathing is not compromised while you are refinishing the hardwood floors.

Depending on the type of finish your hardwood floors have, you will need to decide between refinishing them or resealing them. Refinishing is more involved and time-consuming, but it is the best option for severely damaged or worn floors. Resealing, on the other hand, is a quicker and simpler option that will still allow your floors to look their best.

When resealing your hardwood floors, it is important to use a polyurethane-based product. This will provide the highest level of protection and is most resistant to stains. Polyurethane also dries quickly and is less likely to leave behind an unpleasant chemical smell.

If you are resealing your hardwood floors after refinishing them, it is important to apply multiple coats of the polyurethane. Each coat should be allowed to dry for an hour before applying the next one. This will help to ensure that the floors are protected from water damage and that they have a beautiful shine.

Cleaning a Hardwood Floor

Cleaning a hardwood floor is a vital step in maintaining their beauty and durability. Keeping the floors free of dirt, grime and grit prevents scratching and water damage that dulls or darkens the finish.

Sweep or vacuum the floors regularly to remove surface dirt, debris and dust that can scratch or discolor the wood. A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment or a dust-mop attachment is ideal for hardwood floors. Avoid using a cyclone or water-based vacuum machine because they can clog and break, sucking up bits of sawdust that could scratch the floor.

A wood-staining product can also restore the beauty of scuffed or scratched hardwood. A commercial scratch remover, stain marker or wax stick is usually all that’s needed to repair shallow or superficial scuff marks.

Staining is a popular technique used to enhance wood floors. It can create a wide range of colors and tones that complement various design styles. If you decide to stain your floors, be sure to use a low-VOC product that’s formulated for use on hardwood floors.

Keep in mind that stained hardwood can absorb more grease and oil than untreated or prefinished wood surfaces. Therefore, it’s important to wipe up spills as soon as they occur and to clean stains with a damp cloth or mop.

It’s also a good idea to use doormats inside and outside the front and back doors, and to add area rugs to high-traffic areas to catch loose dirt and grime that might scratch or stain the floor. Consider adding felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs, as well.

Paint splatters and drips are another common problem that can mar beautiful hardwood flooring. Water-based paint splatters can often be removed with a cloth soaked in warm water, but oil-based paint requires the use of an environmentally friendly solvent.

Hiring a professional hardwood floor contractor to refinish your floors is the best way to ensure that the process is executed with precision and efficiency, resulting in a flawless, long-lasting finish. They also have access to high-quality refinishing tools and materials that aren’t available to the average homeowner. They adhere to industry standards and best practices, which guarantees that your floor will look its very best.

How to Become a Plumber

Sonny Lawrence

Plumber Lexington KY install and repair piping, fixtures, and appliances that provide water, heating, sewage, and draining systems. They follow blueprints and building codes to ensure the plumbing components are placed correctly. They also identify and repair leaks and clogs.

Plumbers need strong customer service skills to interact with clients and explain complicated issues. They collaborate with architects and engineers to ensure plumbing systems are integrated into construction projects.

If you want to become a plumber, it takes a good deal of education and training. The job requires excellent technical abilities, like installing and assembling plumbing systems, as well as the ability to read blueprints and understand codes and regulations. Plumbers also need a strong background in math (algebra and geometry), science, and computer-aided drafting. You can gain most of the skills needed for the career through vocational school programs or apprenticeships.

The best way to start on your journey to becoming a plumber is by attending a trade school that offers a diploma program. These schools have an excellent reputation and are known for graduating students with the necessary skills to get a job in the industry. Some of these schools offer certification exams, so you can be sure that you are getting a quality education.

In most jurisdictions, you must complete a few years of apprenticeship work to qualify for a license as a plumber. This usually involves working at an apprentice level for four to five years, then several years as a journeyman plumber. Then, you must take and pass a master plumber’s exam. Some states also require licensure at the local level, so you will need to check with your jurisdiction before you start an apprenticeship or apply for a license.

As you work your way through your plumbing apprenticeship, you will learn new skills and build on the ones that you have already learned. You will also improve your problem-solving and communication skills, which are essential to being a successful plumber. You will need to keep up with your continuing education as well, so be sure to sign up for classes offered by your trade association.

Aside from your educational training, you will also need to keep up with the latest tools and equipment. This is an important part of your career, and it will help you stay competitive in the field. There are many benefits of doing this, including the fact that you will be able to provide your customers with more accurate estimates and service options. In addition, the right tools and equipment will make your job much easier and faster.

The work environment for a plumber can vary depending on the type of plumbing being performed. In general, plumbers work in homes, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities. They may also be called on to perform emergency services in response to a leak or other problem. In some cases, this can mean working very long hours as required by a customer.

In addition to the physical demands of the job, plumbers must frequently work with dangerous materials. They must adhere to strict safety protocols when working with these chemicals, and when performing tasks in confined spaces or at elevated heights. Additionally, they must be prepared to deal with the unpleasant odors of sewage and other waste materials.

Typically, the average working day for a plumber is around eight or ten hours. This can be a very rewarding career choice for people who enjoy the physical nature of their work, but it can also be very stressful for those who are not accustomed to such demanding conditions.

Businesses employ most plumbers, but some are self-employed and can set their own hours. This can be very attractive to people who are looking for a more flexible lifestyle. However, it is important for self-employed plumbers to keep their customers happy in order to maintain a steady flow of work.

Plumbers must be willing to travel to different locations as needed. This can be very rewarding for people who want to explore the country and experience new working environments. It is also important to remember that the work can be very messy, and that plumbers must take special care to protect their clothing and equipment from spills and stains.

Those who are interested in becoming plumbers should consider attending a technical or trade school to receive the proper education and training. Many schools offer programs that can help students become certified plumbers in a relatively short period of time, making the transition into this profession much easier. Then, they can start a new and exciting career that offers excellent benefits and opportunities for advancement. The demand for plumbing services is constant, so this can be a very stable and secure job option.

Plumbing is a trade that requires years of training and practice to master. It is also a physically demanding job that often involves working in cramped spaces and lifting heavy objects. In addition, plumbers must be able to work well with people and understand complex water systems.

Plumbing professionals are responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining pipes and fixtures used for water distribution and waste water disposal in residential and commercial buildings. They may work as part of a construction company or as independent contractors. They may also be required to take on emergency jobs. In some cases, this can lead to unscheduled work and unplanned overtime.

The job duties of a plumber include:

  • Interpreting blueprints and building specifications to map layout for pipes and drainage systems.
  • Assembling.
  • Installing or repairing plumbing components such as valves, fixtures and fittings.
  • Connecting appliances to water and gas lines and opening clogged drains.

They also inspect high-pressure, air, steam, and fuel piping to determine if they are in good condition and repair or replace them as needed.

Other responsibilities include providing customer service and explaining the nature of problems to clients. This involves listening to customer requests, explaining complex plumbing issues, and answering questions in a clear and concise manner. Plumbers should be able to identify and resolve problems quickly and efficiently.

Lastly, they must be able to follow instructions and maintain accurate records of their work. This includes documenting time, materials, and other expenses for each job, completing daily reports, and providing documentation to supervisors as needed. They must also stay informed about industry changes and advancements, as well as the latest equipment and techniques.

Plumbers must be able to handle a variety of tasks and meet strict deadlines. They must also be able to work well with other members of a construction team and communicate effectively with clients. They should also be comfortable working in tight spaces and handling hazardous materials.

The salary of a plumber depends on many different factors, including the amount of education and training, years of experience, and certifications obtained. Typically, plumbers with higher education and more skills earn more than those with lower levels of education and experience. In addition, plumbers who have specialized knowledge of niche markets can command premium salaries. Some plumbers choose to become self-employed and set their own rates. Others choose to work for a plumbing company or plumbing contractor. Regardless of the path chosen, it is important for aspiring plumbers to continue to develop their skills and keep up with new tools, technology and techniques. These improvements can help them complete more jobs and improve their earning potential.

The average plumber salary varies depending on the region and local economic conditions. For example, areas with higher populations and more industrial development tend to require more plumbers. Similarly, regions with harsh winter weather often see a spike in the demand for plumbers to fix frozen pipes and heating systems. Additionally, plumbers who offer emergency services often earn a premium for their expertise.

To maximize their earning potential, plumbers can pursue advanced degrees and pursue specialization in specific areas of the industry. This can open doors to more lucrative positions, such as a master plumber or plumbing contractor. In addition, the development of soft skills can help plumbers build their reputation and increase their earning potential. These skills include customer service, communication, and problem-solving.

In addition to advancing their career, plumbers can also boost their earning potential by providing exceptional customer service. Satisfied customers are more likely to recommend their services to others, resulting in repeat business and a steady income stream. In addition, plumbers can also make use of a variety of marketing and networking strategies to grow their clientele.

Finally, plumbers can increase their earnings by taking on more responsibilities and expanding their skill set. For example, plumbers with welding or HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) experience can offer a more comprehensive range of services to their clients. In addition, plumbers can improve their earning potential by acquiring additional certifications and becoming experts in sustainable plumbing practices.

How to Keep Carpets Clean

Sonny Lawrence

Carpets are a cozy addition to any room but also high maintenance. It can be challenging to keep them clean, especially if you have kids or pets.

Vacuuming is essential, but regular deep cleaning is also necessary to tackle stubborn stains and embedded dirt. To do this, use a full-size home machine that can precondition the carpet with an alkaline or mild acidic solution (for synthetic) (or woolen). Carpet Cleaning Northern Suburbs Perth rinses it with hot water and extracts the dirt and residue.

Carpet Cleaning

A carpet is a luxurious addition to any room but requires proper care to keep it looking good and feeling soft. A regular cleaning process will help prevent dirt build-up that can make the fabric look dull and worn, or trigger allergies in family members. A professional cleaner will know what cleaning procedure and detergents are best for each type of carpet. They will also understand that some carpets may be made from fabrics such as natural wool or silk, and they will treat them accordingly to prevent damage.

When a tough stain happens, it is important to take care of it as quickly as possible. First, remove as much of the stain as you can with a butter knife or scraper, then soak up any remaining liquid with paper towels or other absorbent materials. Then apply a spot remover to the area. When using a spot remover, it is important to follow the instructions on the label and not use it with other household products. It is also important to test the product on a small patch of your carpet before you apply it to the entire surface.

Once the stain has been removed, you can use a carpet or upholstery protector to prevent future problems. The protectant will change the surface of the fabric to make it hydrophobic, meaning that water or other liquids will be repelled from the fibers automatically. The protectant will also make the carpet or upholstery easier to clean, as most general soiling will stay suspended in the coating instead of penetrating into the actual fibers.

Another thing to remember is to give your carpet a lot of ventilation during and after the cleaning process. This will help the carpeting and the padding underneath dry properly. You should open windows and use fans to help with this, especially in humid weather. This will also prevent mildew or mold from developing in your home. It is also a good idea to vacuum your carpets three times a week. This will keep the dust and other allergens to a minimum and reduce the amount of dirt that builds up in your carpeting.

Allergies are not just annoying but they can also be dangerous, especially for children and elderly people. They can cause coughing, sneezing, watery eyes and itchy skin. Allergens can also trigger asthma. In extreme cases, they can even be life-threatening for those suffering from respiratory illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchitis.

One of the most common causes of allergies is dirty carpets. Dirty carpets trap allergens like dust mite excrement, pet dander and pollen. The trapped particles are then released into the air when someone walks on the carpet, and the allergens get inhaled. The best way to reduce the release of these allergens is to vacuum the carpet regularly. It is best to do it twice a week with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter or double bag to prevent the release of allergens back into the air.

Another great way to remove allergens from your carpet is to hire a professional to do a deep clean once or twice a year. A professional can use a hot water extraction method that kills allergens and improves indoor air quality. To reduce the risk of allergic reactions, you can install low-VOC carpeting that does not release harmful chemicals into the air.

Carpets can also collect odor-causing bacteria. They are a breeding ground for fungus and mildew that can trigger allergy symptoms. Regular cleaning removes these toxins and restores the fresh, clean look of your carpet.

You can further reduce the amount of allergens in your home by removing shoes as often as possible inside the house. This will reduce the number of dirt, pesticide residues, mold spores, and other outdoor debris that enters the house on the bottom of shoes. It is also a good idea to have a designated shoe storage area near the front door.

Regularly cleaning your carpets can help reduce allergy symptoms, improve indoor air quality, and extend the life of your carpeting. In addition, it will make your home or office a healthy environment for your family and employees. So, keep the carpeting clean and enjoy a comfortable, beautiful home or workplace this Spring.

There are a few different tactics that you can employ to remove the toughest carpet stains. One of the most important things is to move quickly. If possible, blot the stain before it has a chance to sink into the carpet fibers. Use a plain piece of fabric or paper towel (to avoid color transfer and print damage) to do this, and apply as much pressure as you can without digging into the fibers further.

You can also try treating the stain with a few common household items. For example, you can mix a solution of cold water and mild dishwashing liquid to treat the stain. Make sure to test the colorfastness of your carpet by applying a small amount of the cleaning solution to an inconspicuous part of the material. If it does not show any signs of color transfer or bleaching, you can proceed to use the cleaner on the stained area.

Another household item that can be used to treat stains is hydrogen peroxide. This is a great alternative to acidic cleaners and works well on a variety of fabrics, including carpet. You can try applying a small amount of the solution to the spot, then blotting with a clean piece of cloth or paper towels. If the stain does not disappear, you can try again with a stronger solution.

If you have tried these home remedies and the stains are still not going away, it may be time to call in a professional. COIT professionals can effectively and quickly remove ground-in stains from your carpet to give it the fresh new look you desire.

To prepare the carpet for cleaning, it is a good idea to vacuum first to remove any loose dirt or debris. Next, wet the area with cold water. Then, wet the cleaning solution and dab gently until the stain begins to disappear. You should also use an absorbent towel to soak up the excess cleaning solution after each application, as too much can cause the material to become saturated and hard to dry. Lastly, you should steam vac the cleaned area and allow it to air dry.

Vacuuming on a regular basis is one of the best ways to keep carpets looking good and staying healthy. Vacuuming lifts abrasive dirt that can damage carpet fibers over time. It also helps the overall appearance of a room and reduces odors and allergens.

The best way to vacuum a carpet is to work slowly and deliberately. Rushing over the carpet can cause damage and doesn’t give the vacuum cleaner the opportunity to suck up more than surface-level dirt. Run the vacuum over an area several times, working in a compass pattern so you cover every direction. It is also helpful to use a brush attachment or a crevice tool to get to the corners and other hard-to-reach places where a standard vacuum head might miss dirt.

It is important to vacuum carpet on a weekly basis and more often in high-traffic areas. A family with children and pets should increase the frequency of vacuuming to daily or even twice a day. This will help to catch pet hair and dander that can damage carpets over time. Using a lint roller for quick clean-up of crumbs and having the kids assist with vacuuming can help keep these chores on top of their list.

A regular sprinkle of baking soda every month can freshen and deodorize carpets, as well. Sprinkle the baking soda and let it sit for an hour or more to absorb oily stains and odors before vacuuming. This trick is recommended by professional carpet cleaners to their clients.

Keeping up with frequent vacuuming, cleaning up spills and stains promptly, and having the carpet professionally deep cleaned every 12 to 18 months will prolong the life of your carpets. You can also take steps to prevent dirt from getting into your carpets in the first place, including placing door mats at entrances and wiping feet and taking shoes off before entering the home.

Vacuuming the entire floor on a weekly basis will prevent dirt from becoming trapped in the fibers of the carpet. It is also helpful to change the furnace filter regularly, as dirty ones trap airborne dust that can then be blown onto carpets. Having the ductwork professionally cleaned can also make a big difference in the overall quality of indoor air.