Category: Inspiration

Categories
Real estate & moving

Ask a Real Estate Agent

In the current real estate market, high demand and limited land supply gives homeowners an advantage. Ray White agent Thomas Merriman and Service First Property Group specialists, Andre Pang and Oliver Quach share their responses to common questions asked by Australian homeowners.

When is the right time to sell?

Thomas: “I would advise people thinking about selling to regularly keep up to date with the Auction Clearance rates as they typically act as a ‘canary in the mine’ for property market conditions. If the canary dies, leave, if the rates drop dramatically, pause your campaign.”

Andre: “The right time to sell depends on the vendor’s financial or personal situation. Try to avoid public holidays or long weekends during your marketing campaign, but if you can’t avoid it then add another week to your marketing campaign. My clients ask whether or not they should be selling in the winter as there are typically less properties to compete with. Serious buyers never stop looking and as long as you have the correct marketing campaign in place, they will turn up to your inspection year round.”

Source: Nicheliving Real Estate

What kind of properties are in high demand in the market?

Thomas: “Properties where people can add value, either by knocking down and rebuilding or simply renovating – especially a cosmetic reno or a quick ‘flip’ – are the properties that are in highest demand. The Melbourne trend is toward ‘terrace’ style homes and premium apartments. The idea of city living with the feel of a newly built house is a pretty desirable one, providing you have the budget. Attend the first open-home for a property and you will get an idea.”

What are some things to look for in an agent?

Andre: “There are a few ways to discern between an honest agent and a dishonest one. A genuine agent will give you a realistic appraisal with evidence and research. Lots of agents will inflate sales appraisals so you can hear your dream selling price but when an agent gives you an appraisal, check that it’s backed with comparable sales and recent data. A good agent will also design a marketing campaign tailored to your property’s needs. As everything comes through the Internet these days you don’t need to limit your search to a local agent.”

What are some tips you would give to a homeowner planning to sell?

Thomas: “Buyers aren’t visionaries- they don’t have the creative flair to see past bad curtains and unmown grass, but coming to market can be delayed by weeks if vendors are busy fixing a leak because they’ve replaced the benchtop, cupboards, stools and tapware. All this can be done over a weekend or two and you can hire a professional to get it done with no budget blowouts – but make a list and stick to it.”

Andre: “Prepare your home so buyers can imagine it as their own. Aim to create an emotional attachment with the buyer. It might be a good idea to have a stylist for your property to achieve the desired results. ”

Contact local real estate agents

Here are Andre’s tips to get your property to sell:

  • Kerb appeal: Make sure there are no weeds and the lawn and plants are trimmed. Attractive pot plants can also add to the appeal.
  • Lighting: Clean the inside and outside of your windows, turn on all the lights and draw up the blinds and curtains.
  • Less is more: Less clutter will help the room look bigger so the potential purchaser can imagine their things fitting into your property.
  • Pleasant scents: Get rid of any smoke or pet odours. Open up your windows, brew coffee or use diffusers to add some homeliness to your property.
  • Acclimatisation: This is largely weather dependent but if it’s cold turn on the heater and if it’s hot, turn on the air conditioning to create an enjoyable experience.
Source: Tattersalls Real Estate

What’s next for the Sydney and Melbourne property market?

Thomas:  “The RBA has lowered interest rates further and have increased the restrictions on loans for investment properties but the thing is, investors don’t set rental prices just as vendors don’t set sale prices. The market will take care of that, demand will always win out and people can only afford what they can afford. Once again, this may be the beginning of the end of the boom market, if this happens.”

Andre Pang: “The market is expected to plateau and move sideways for a number of years. Investors should seek high yields instead of growth at this moment. I also see an increase in studio developments like the ‘Melbourne Quarter’ project in Docklands which offers micro studios ranging between 25-33 sqm. While there is still an undersupply of property, affordability is still a major issue and studio apartments are very normal in other parts of the world, it’s only a matter of time that Sydney and Melbourne will adopt a similar mentality.”

Categories
Automotive

How to finance a car loan when you’re self-employed

Purchasing a new car isn’t something everyone manages outright. Throw self-employment into the mix, and the challenge can be harder.

Variable income and unpredictability often make securing finance feel out of reach. But that’s not the case. If you’re self-employed or an owner of a micro-business, there are options to secure a car loan that doesn’t break your bank.

Now with times more uncertain than before, it pays to invest and choose wisely. Here’s how you can increase your chances of successful car financing. 

Interior of a red ferrari with white leather seats and black steering wheel.
Source: Creative Car Care

Prioritise loan type

One of the most common financing mistakes is falling in love with the car before the loan.

You wouldn’t buy a house without sorting the paperwork, and your vehicle buying strategy should follow the same rule.

If you want to save money, seek pre-approval first and understand how different types of car loans work. This helps you budget, compare and approach the right lender for your needs and is the smartest way to determine what you can afford. Apply this strategy whether you’re shopping new, used or private.

Make sure you:

●  Review interest rates, fees, charges and repayment frequency to work costs into your budget

●  Prioritise your credit score to confirm your current financial position

●  Shop for car financing before you visit car dealerships

Tip:  Be careful not to apply for too many loans in a short period of time as this impacts your credit report and may decrease chances of approval. 

Research, compare and negotiate

Will you be leasing or buying your car?

The type of loan you choose depends on your business needs. Consider the purpose of your car, budget and whether you need to keep its ownership. Research and compare at least three loans from various lenders before you decide.

If buying outright isn’t for you, leasing enables you to get a new car with low monthly repayments. But it still pays to do your research first to compare and strengthen negotiating power.

Pre-approval of car finance also improves your negotiating influence.

Consider potential tax benefits

Buying a vehicle for business is a great tax advantage.

You may claim your car against business tax with a registered ABN. Generally, leasing means you won’t pay GST.

If you’re GST registered, the tax is charged on the purchase price which you can claim back when you lodge your statements. Depending on the type of car you’re after, see if you’re eligible for the Australian Government’s instant asset write-off. This only applies to new and second-hand cars under $20,000.

Minimise lender risk

There are a few ways to minimise the lender’s risk, which could improve your chances of approval.

  1. Have a substantial deposit
  2. Get your credit score up to scratch
  3. Keep balance sheet to prove business growth, profit and equity 

Weigh up features and restrictions

Every contract will have its own set of benefits and loan restrictions.

Before you sign, review the fine print. Sometimes, there are features to fuel savings like additional warranties and Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP) insurance. Optional extras such as maintenance plans, GPS navigation and car alarm installation may sound good, but verify they’re meeting your needs and not adding to the total costs unnecessarily.

If there’s a chance you’ll pay your loan out early, look for flexible payment options and smaller payout fees like a chattel mortgage. These are favourable for self-employed individuals or tradies.

Buyer Beware: Not all features are what they seem. For example; some extended warranties are only valid if you return to the same dealership for servicing, which could end up costing you more. Remember it’s a car salesman’s job to upsell features, so it’s important to know what you’re really getting and if it’s worth your money.

Partner with a financial advisor

Partnering with an accountant or financial advisor is a wise move to determine all options and tax benefits.

Whilst it’s always vital to do your own research, a financial advisor provides knowledgeable guidance, so you find the best loan, lender and deal for your industry. These professionals have access to a network of financiers to save you the hassle of negotiating with each. Such savings in time and energy are valuable when you’re self-employed or a small business owner.

Flexibility, simplicity and clarity are the essential ingredients for anyone who is self-employed and looking to apply for car finance. The right loan will assist in the growth of your business, by ensuring access to the transportation you need.

Categories
Gates & fencing

Pool fence regulations in Australia

Having a backyard pool is a great way to enjoy the warm weather. All pool owners should be sure that their pool is fenced correctly to ensure the safety of everyone who uses it. Local, state and federal governments have been cracking down on pool safety regulation enforcement. The top way to aid in preventing pool-related injuries is to fence off your pool. This guide discusses some of the guidelines for the fences.

General pool regulations

Some general rules for pool fencing that apply to every state throughout Australia are as follows:

  • The fence should be made of a durable material to prevent children from being able to manipulate the fence to gain entrance.
  • The fencing should be well maintained and shouldn’t contain any gaps, damage or holes.
  • The height of the fence should be at least 1.2m in height, when measured from the outside Boundary fences that are part of the pool setup should be at least 1.8m in height.
  • The bottom gap in the fence should be 10cm or less from the ground.
  • The panels shouldn’t have more than a 10-cm gap in between each one of them. This will prevent children from squeezing past the gate. 
  • Pool gates should always open outwards away from the pool area and have to be wholly self-latching and self-closing.
  • Mount the gate’s latch inside the gate, so that a person must reach over if they want to open the gate. Latches on the outside must be at least 1.5m from the ground.
  • The pool should not have any objects like trees, furniture, plants, or pool pumps, that can be climbed on to access the pool. These items must be situated at least 90cm from the pool fence, so children cannot use them to climb over the fence.
  • The walls that comprise the pool fencing must not be able to be accessed from inside the home, unless, in some cases, you do have self-latching doors and child-resistant windows.
  • An inside pool must be fitted with a self-latching, self-closing door that opens to the outside of the pool.

State by state regulations for the pool

Generalised rules are enforced throughout Australia, but each state has its own regulations and restrictions. The occupants in the home can endure heavy penalties for not following these rules.

A pool using both fencing and the house walls as a barrier / Source: Serenity Pool Co

Queensland pool safety standards

A new pool safety register was introduced in the state a few years ago. This register lists every pool in the state and has copies of every certificate awarded for pool safety compliance, and lists all of the people licensed to carry out pool inspections. If you a pool, you should be registered. If you’re not, you could be liable to pay a fine of $2,000.

From December 1st 2010, any rented or lived in house in Queensland needs to have a certificate for pool safety.

Key safety standards

These standards apply to all pools, both inside or outside, that are more than 30cm deep when full. Before any pool is filled with water, the fencing needs to be approved. If any part of the property is inside the perimeter of the pool fencing, i.e. if you can access the pool directly from the house, you will need to install fencing stopping this. For indoor pools, child safety doors need to be added to access it.

New pools

If a new pool is currently under construction, it will need approval before development starts. Whilst the pool is under construction, temporary fencing is allowed for up to three months. After this period has elapsed, however, permanent fencing needs to be put in place.

Contact local swimming pool experts

WA pool safety standards

The specific pool fencing regulations are slightly different depending on when your pool was built. If your pool was constructed after 5 November 2001, you need to make sure that pool fencing properly restricts access to the pool. Some fencing will have fencing all around the perimeter with a gate leading into it. However, it can still use one of the house walls as one side of the fencing. If the wall has any windows, they have to be correctly locked so that children can’t access the pools.

If your pool was built before 4 November 2001, it needs to have a fence around it that is well maintained. If the yard has a boundary fence, that can act as part of the fence. The gate to the pool must close and latch on its own, and it should open outwards and away from the pool. There also has to be a fence constructed to separate the pool from the house, and if any doors or windows open to the pool, they have to follow the Australian Standards as well.

Pools built after 5 November 2001 must not include a door as part of the barrier unless the door is permanently fixed using a device other than a key locking mechanism. Pools built after 1st May 2016 must not use a door as a part of the barrier at all.

If your pool was approved for construction before 30 June 1992, the WA Government suggests that you have your fencing updated.

VIC pool safety standards

In 2010, updates were made to the Building Code of Australia in regards to pool fencing installation. In general, any new swimming pool in the area must have a four-sided fence. In other words, you must fence in your pool, including any spas you have. Any water-based area with more than 300mm when filled must be fenced.

As of December 2019, you need to complete the following steps to have a private pool in Victoria:

  1. Register your pool with your local council
  2. Organise a registered inspector to inspect your pool barrier 
  3. Rectify any identified issues
  4. Submit to council a certificate of compliance
Pool fencing can have small gaps as long as they are not larger than regulation size / Source: Cabarita Pools

NSW pool safety standards

All pools built after July 2010 must be surrounded by a fence that completely separates the pool from the house. For pools built before July 2010, this regulation also applies but some exemptions could be made for very small properties, very large properties or waterfront properties.

If you have a door that is part of a pool barrier you must ensure that it closes with manual force, self latches and does not open toward the pool.

If an old fence or barrier is rebuilt then the most current restrictions apply. Therefore, any previous exemptions placed on the pool when it was built will cease.

Maintaining your pool fencing

Once in place, you need to maintain it. This is a requirement that you, as the owner, must meet. This means you cannot have gaps or areas that are damaged that could allow a child to get through. Additionally, all gates and gate latches must operate appropriately at all times. They should have a self-closing and self-latching design on them, and the gates must open outwards. Additionally, you cannot access your pool directly from the house. If you fail to maintain these requirements, there are very hefty fees involved. In some cases, the penalties can be as much as $5,000 or more.

Other safety measures

While pool fencing is a must, if you want to ensure the safety of your children, there are other additional measures that you can utilize as well. Swimming pool covers, as well as pool alarms, may prove to be essential for the complete safety and protection of your family. Homeowners with a swimming pool should also invest in pool safety equipment. And once the time to enjoy the pool comes, don’t leave the kids without adult supervision.

While swimming pools definitely are a lot of fun, you have to be aware of the risks they pose for small kids as well. Drowning accidents can be prevented if you make sure that your pool protection is up to code. Stay safe and enjoy your family pool time to the fullest.

Categories
Design & decor

Study room ideas for your home

Whether you have been a student for a while or you’ve decided to start studying again after a long break, creating the perfect study environment at home is imperative to better learning strategies, understanding your materials and passing with success.

There’s more to creating a study space than just setting up a desk in your home. While this may seem like the obvious first step for many people, there are a few factors that can help you to study more efficiently and have a learning space you can be truly proud of.

Create an ergonomic workspace

Having a safe and healthy study environment immediately means you have a productive study space. No matter what size room you have for studying, creating a space that is ergonomic will help you to study comfortably.

One of the keys to better ergonomics having the right chair. Choose a chair that can be adjusted to help you sit at your desk in the most natural position possible. Your wrists, hands and forearms should be straight, in-line and parallel to the floor.

Ensure your home study space is ergonomically set up / Source: RJ Design Studio

Adjustable desks are also a great addition to your space, particularly a desk that can also convert into a standing desk. These desks allow you to adjust their height so you can stand and work. Sitting for several hours at a time is bad for your body, so switch up your study routine. This gives you room to be more active and keep your circulation flowing throughout the day and lengthy study sessions.

Other items to consider include your mouse and keyboard. There are many ergonomic choices on the market. Most of them may look a little strange, but they’re actually designed to place the user in the best possible position that allows you to sit in a more natural position.

Finally, consider the lighting and temperature of your study area. Consult with an interior designer to get your lighting placed at a perfect spot. There is nothing worse than having to sit at a desk to study when it is either too cold or too hot and the lighting just isn’t right. By installing additional cooling/heating and extra lighting (if needed), you can have a comfortable and productive study space.

Adopt an agile work policy

Originally used in the software development industry, agile processes have been used by many companies, industries and now, homes, in order to get through difficult and/or technical projects. Studying can be an overwhelming task and if you’re studying via distance education or self-paced learning, the challenges can be quite difficult to conquer.

Adopting an agile work policy in your studies can mean:

  • You have a solid understanding of what is required of you and in what order of importance those tasks are
  • Transparency to see where your study efforts are going
  • Tracking your progress in real-time
  • Better focus on your tasks
  • A clear understanding of execution order

It can be as simple as using a whiteboard/corkboard or a large sheet of paper on your wall. Using three columns, you will have a ‘to do’ column, an ‘in progress’ column and a ‘completed’ column’.

The ‘to do’ column will give you a visual representation of the tasks you need to do for your studies and, if you use post-it notes to write your tasks down, you can easily re-arrange your notes to show which tasks are top priority, and which ones can wait.

As you complete tasks, you can move them to the ‘in progress’ column and when completed, the third and last column. Another great reason to use this method is so that anyone else in your family (kids or your partner) can see exactly what’s on your plate and whether they need to give you some space with your studies!

Scrum is an agile framework for completing complex projects. Whether you want to use Scrum as a way to get through your home tasks and studies, or whether you want to utilise that knowledge for the workforce, there’s no doubt that adopting an agile work policy at home can help you to stay focused on all of your tasks.

Contact local interior designers

Reduce any distractions

Studying at a university or education facility can be distracting at the best of times. At home, it seems anything and everything in the house is trying to lure you away from your good intentions of studying hard.

Whether it’s binge-watching Netflix all afternoon or simply just household chores like the laundry, there are several ways you can eliminate these distractions to help you study better.

When setting up your study space, choose an area of the home that is away from family members who may be moving through the house. Therefore, a corner of the main living room may not be ideal. If you have a space that is away from the main home (such as a granny flat or a basement), this could be a perfect place to set up. Just make sure your space is ergonomic with plenty of light and fresh air! This way other people (or pets) aren’t likely to distract you while you’re trying to study.

Creating your own “study hours” will also be helpful. Creating a schedule for your studies will help you to be more focused during those times, as they have been deliberately set aside for your studies. It can also help other family members understand that it’s an important time for you to catch up on studies and know not to distract you.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, learning hubs & courses

Increasing your knowledge is something that will always pay off throughout your lifetime. A part of studying more means staying up-to-date with the latest in news, courses and resources that can help you with work and future studies.

Google have a number of handy resources, including Digital Garage. Here, you can indulge in free courses to help you stay up-to-date on everything from social media, emailing and Adwords certifications.

Reading articles and news stories from sites such as Copyblogger, Forbes, Entrepreneur and Tim Ferriss and the Four Hour Work Week will help you to stay in the loop with everything related to business, psychology, productivity and even how to improve your writing.

Whether you’re just a student or you’re studying towards starting your own business, keeping up-to-date with the latest news and views can help you understand more about your industry.

If you love studying but can’t find the time to go to a university or college every week, online studies may be the perfect choice for you. Because you have the perfect office and study area set up in your home and you know how to better manage your time and be free of distractions, studying online couldn’t be easier. There are a wide range of education providers who offer educational resources completely online.

Wrap up

It doesn’t matter if you plan on studying one course or a few, having the perfect set-up at home can give you a personal edge to help you study better and productively. From setting up your office in the best area of the home, to better time and activity management, ergonomic furniture and the right online course, you’ll be able to study efficiently, all from the comfort of your own home.

Categories
Cleaning

DIY: Stain removal guide

A house is just a shell until you decorate it with furniture. As such, you want to keep these expensive purchases looking as good as new. But spills can happen every day. Before cleaning, soak up any excess from the spill and remember, blotting does not mean rubbing. After that, here are some tips to remove different types of stains.

Fabric and upholstery

Grease stains: Use just a little rubbing alcohol or dry-cleaning fluid. Keep blotting lightly until the stain stops coming up on the towel. Then use a mix of dishwashing liquid and water, starting from the outer rim of the stain and moving to the centre.

Makeup and ink stains: Using a little rubbing alcohol or dry cleaning fluid, immediately blot the stain until it is dry. If it hasn’t disappeared, use a mix of vinegar and warm water, and then blot it dry quickly.

Other stains: For miscellaneous stains, try soaking with water for about a minute before blotting the spot dry with a towel. Keep doing this until the stain doesn’t keep coming up on the towel, and then use a mix of dishwashing liquid and warm water until the stain disappears. Lastly, rinse with club soda or tonic water, and dry.

Wood furniture

Water marks: Rub toothpaste in a circular motion on the water mark with a damp cloth. Then, use a clean, damp cloth to remove the toothpaste. Finish up by polishing the wood, or if you’re concerned, you can try using extra-fine steel wool to remove the mark, and then polish or wax it.

Heat marks: Use extra-fine steel wool to rub the stain out of the wood, and then polish or wax it.

Beverage stains: From soda to milk to alcohol, pour a little ammonia on the spill, and then use paste wax on your finger to rub the area. Then, wipe the wood clean and polish it.

Stains on wooden furniture can be removed with toothpaste and a damp cloth / Source: Ask S and R Services

Leather furniture

Grease stains: For a grease stain, wipe up as much as you can with a dry cloth, and let it sit for a few hours to see if it disappears on its own. If not, use leather cleaner.

Ink stains: Rub the stain with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol until it disappears, and then use a blow dryer to dry the spot. If the stain remains, use acetone-free nail polish remover, and remove the residue with leather cleaner.

Dark stains: For spills of dark liquid, rub a mix of lemon juice and tartar cream on the spot, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then rub on some more of the mix, and finally remove it with a damp sponge.

Suede: For dry stains on suede, use a clean eraser. For wet stains, sop up the excess liquid with a paper towel. For oily stains, use a commercial suede cleaner.

Carpet

To reduce the damage, wet a rag with hot water and use it to dab the affected area immediately. Just remember, the sooner you treat the spillage, the better chance you have of its removal.

Wine stains: Wine can leave an obvious mark on your living room floor, but if you spill red wine on your carpet, don’t fret. Simply place a paper towel over the stain to absorb most of the moisture and sprinkle some baking soda over the stain. As the bicarbonate soda reacts with the chemical balance of the red wine, the colour will change from red to a light grey. Dab the area with a sponge dipped in white vinegar to change the pH of the wine again. Each time you change the pH of the stain, the stubborn spillage will be wrung loose from the affected carpet.

Coffee and tea stains: Try pouring a little beer on top of the affected area. Rub the beer into the spillage and watch the stain disappear. If you are out of beer, opt for a stronger solution by combining equal parts of white vinegar and water to blot out the stain.

Oil and grease stains: Pour baby powder over the area, cover it with a paper towel and gently iron it. The heat will force the powder to absorb the oil. Alternatively, negate the oil spill by rubbing detergent directly into the stain and washing it out with hot water.

Avoid using strong chemicals without a cleaning professional as it can damage the colour and condition of your carpet.

Contact local cleaning experts

Barbeque care

The barbeque is an essential ingredient to any outdoor party, but it can be a challenge to keep your barbecue clean, hygienic and ready for your next use. Apply these simple steps so you won’t get stuck scrubbing the grill in the final minutes before your guests arrive.

As good practice, ensure your barbeque is cleaned after each time it is used. Before cooking, take some time to line the drip tray with two layers of aluminium foil to avoid cleaning out the grease and oil after your sausages and steak are consumed.

After cooking on the barbeque, use some of the leftover onion – an affordable and safe cleaning tool, to scrub the hot plate and the grill. The onion can loosen the grime on your grill, but it is best to allow the flames to burn on high for an extra 5 minutes after cooking to burn any residue meat. The barbeque is best cleaned when it is still warm as the oils, fats and grime haven’t had time to set. A quick clean just after you’ve cooked the last lamb chop can save you effort and prevent scratches on the surface of your grill.

After each use, wipe down the oven hood of your barbeque with bicarb soda and vinegar while it is still warm. After cleaning, spray the hotplate and grill with some cooking oil to prevent rust.

Categories
Wellbeing

Benefits of a home sauna

If you’re looking for ways to make your home environment warmer and inviting, how about installing a sauna? It may seem like a splurge, but you’ll find that the relaxation and enjoyment you get from your own home sauna is well worth the expense involved. If you’re tempted to start sauna shopping, here are a few things to keep in mind. 

The benefits of a sauna

Few things are more relaxing than a sauna. It can help you to steam off stress and tension so that you’ll emerge feeling lighter, healthier and ready to deal with life again. Saunas also improve circulation and skin tone and are an important tool in detoxing your body. They’re also a great sleep aid, as they relax the mind and body in preparation for a good nights rest.

In addition to these health benefits, saunas will go a long way toward keeping you warm during the cold weather months. There’s a reason why saunas are so popular in areas with long, harsh winters, such as Scandinavia. Saunas warm you up from head to toe, with deep, penetrating heat that seems to radiate all the way down into your bones.

Types of saunas

There are four main types of saunas available for purchase.

  • Dry saunas work through heating up the air (although there is no steam produced).
  • Steam saunas work thanks to water dropped onto superheated volcanic rocks, producing steam.
  • Herbal saunas work the same way as steam saunas, just with the addition of essential oils added to aid in the therapeutic process.
  • Infrared saunas heat the body instead of the air through the use of a special infrared device. Infrared saunas are also clearly the more energy-efficient types of sauna; they’ll also allow for much more time to be spent in them.

How infrared sauna technology works

An infrared sauna uses special heaters that warm only objects in its direct path. These special heaters emit infrared heat, which gently goes into the skin and raises the body temperature, causing profuse sweating. Infrared technology uses the same energy as natural sunlight, but with none of the bad ultraviolet waves.

The air inside a home sauna does not get steamy like those experienced at the gym. Instead, the air temperature retains its comfortable zone.

A sauna with two panels of infrared lights to generate heat
An infrared sauna / Source: Shutterstock

Permanent vs. portable

Infrared heaters can be either permanently installed or portable. Permanent heaters can be installed in a room of your home or in a specially built sauna outside. They need to be installed by an electrician who can handle the wiring. 

Portable infrared heaters can be relocated with you if you move. Portable heaters are also easier to install since they just need to be plugged into a standard outlet. They can range from incredibly simple with just a special heated bag that you sit in and zip up around you to small rooms that are still large enough to comfortably fit you and several friends.

Electric sauna heaters

Electric saunas have different types of heaters. The simplest saunas are the plug and play kind that simply plugs into a power point. Many saunas, however, require the services of a certified electrician. This is especially true of wet saunas, which have more intricate, complex engineering. Since a wet sauna is constantly exposed to moisture, the electric elements have to be housed in such a way that protects them from coming into contact with water. The risk of electrical shock is yet another reason why it’s crucial to hire a licensed electrician to instal a wet sauna rather than attempting to do it yourself.

Contact local electricians

Planning the sauna installation

Finding the right location for a sauna is the first step. Extremely versatile, saunas can go indoors or out, can be covered by a structure or free-standing and can even go inside an already available room in your house. Besides the location, you should consider the heat source. There are many choices, including electrical heater, wood-burning stoves, infrared heaters or gas heaters. Each one has its advantages, but the usability will ultimately determine the right one for you.

Consider also how many people will use the sauna in order to pick the right size. Is it just for home use? A smaller, two or three-person tub is perfect. Larger-capacity saunas suit individuals serving guests.

Home saunas are customisable to suit your available space / Source: Shutterstock

Sauna cost

In most cases, a sauna will cost several thousands of dollars. The cost will depend on the size since some larger models can cost up to $10,000 or so. Realise, however, that these will be yours to take with you should you decide to move, and most will last for many years. The benefits they offer for your health and mental state are often worth the cost.

Once you have it in place, you still have to maintain it. That can cost you some money over time. The cost of maintaining it is generally very inexpensive, but you’ll also need it serviced each year to keep it in good working order. Only you can determine if these costs are worthwhile.

Categories
Wellbeing

What does a personal trainer do?

Personal trainers were once exclusively hired by celebrities, but with increasing health awareness and the wider availability of personal trainers in modern society, more people have started to hire professional help to get in shape. Personal trainers help you improve in reaching your goal body weight, muscle definition and tone, as well as heart health (cardio). They also help you to build more confidence and self-esteem through personalised exercises.

When it comes to choosing your personal fitness program, you need to ask yourself if it actually benefits you or if it is merely a quick-fix for short-term benefits. Here, David from Elite Health & Strength shares his advice on finding the right fitness program for you – that will help improve your overall fitness and wellness.

What does a good personal trainer do?

Good personal trainers not only help you with short-term fitness goals, but also with long-term health. They understand what you need, adapt to individual clients’ needs and cater to differing learning styles seamlessly. Their ability to manipulate variables, and to balance between short-term gains and the long-term outcome can’t be underestimated. They are attentive, educational and technical, but in a personable way to make fitness fun. They also empower clients and provide constructive criticism when necessary. All of these traits result in clients feeling ready to take on any challenges.

Source: Alltone Fitness

The key benefits of hiring a personal trainer

Foster confidence and commitment

To live a happy and healthy life is more easily said than done. Some key ways in doing so are to believe in yourself, be confident and have self-esteem. Studies show that your body weight and strength levels are positively correlated with confidence and self-esteem. The goal in training should not be to weigh ‘x’ kilograms, but to adjust variables in training accordingly. This will instil a little bit more confidence every week and inspire you to keep moving forward. It’s not an easy job to adjust variables based on individual body conditions and fitness goals. Only experienced personal trainers are able to do it.

Know how your body moves

A good personal trainer educates you on how your body moves. When clients understand the best way of doing certain movements, they’re more likely to trial different ways of solving problems and treating tight or sore muscles with care. There are always better ways of doing things. Experienced personal trainers care to elaborate, and you can get a better understanding of how and why some exercises are imperative in improving postures and other daily living activities than others.

Be mentally stronger

Accountability, integrity and adaptability – these are all important characteristics to have for achieving not only fitness goals, but also goals in life. Personal trainers help you to further strengthen these abilities to yield the best results in the long run. They remind you of these traits that will set the foundation for a joyous and meaningful life, so have these in mind at every training session.

Source: Timo Topp

Walk the talk

Good personal trainers are familiar with all the movements they teach you. They have probably been doing the same routines in their own fitness plan. When you are trapped underneath a fully-loaded squat bar, they can totally relate to how you feel. The same thing might have just happened to them a few hours ago. A good personal trainer would have taught you what to take on board from their own personal experiences.

Train with the training partners

Sharing knowledge is common among fitness groups. Injuries can happen and when someone with the same experience is willing to share and pass on knowledge to prevent it, it brings the community together. It is also a piece of valuable information – you are more informed and you know whether to book in an allied health professional, such as an osteopath, physiotherapist or myotherapist. Being armed with knowledge allows you to make better decisions.

How to hire a personal trainer

Here are a few tips for hiring a well-suited personal trainer. Firstly, know exactly what you want from the personal trainer. If your goal is to build confidence, it’s hard to put a price on that.

Price, looks and location are all important factors, but the most important thing is to find someone you trust. Once you have faith and the right training mate, you will be unstoppable.

Training with like-minded people is a great way to get stronger and overcome challenges by learning and teaching new skills. Learning the correct technique for exercises will keep you injury-free and put a smile on your face in the process!

Categories
Lighting & electrical

Solar panels: What are they & how do they work?

How do solar panels work?

A solar panel is a photovoltaic panel that absorbs light and heat from the sun and produces electricity from it for use in your home. The panel is usually made of silicone photovoltaic cells that are placed between plastic sheets and glass. There are three common panel options, monocrystaline, polycrystaline, and thin film. The most common is polycrystaline because it is an affordable solution and one that has good overall performance. The monocrystaline models are more efficient, but they cost more to install. The third option, a thin film, is useful for smaller scale projects and needs.

Solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity. Houses use alternating current (AC) electricity so you’ll require an inverter to convert the DC power from the solar panels to the AC power that your home uses.

Solar panels are a sustainable source of energy / Source: Jenson Electrical

On-grid vs. off-grid systems

An on-grid solar power system is connected to the electric company’s grid. Any extra electricity your solar panels generate that isn’t used by your home is sent to the electric company.

An off-grid power system is not connected to the electric company’s grid. Instead, any excess energy created by your solar panels is stored in backup batteries that can be used to power your home during times that your solar panels are not creating enough energy.

Choosing a solar panel

The main factor to consider when purchasing a solar panel is wattage and size, which will generally be based on the size of your home and the amount of power you need. It is best to work directly with a local solar power professional to determine the specifics of your setup, as they have the experience to fit the right solar panel to your particulars.

Wattage matters

The most important factor to consider when sizing solar panels is the amount of wattage that can be generated. The number of watts the panel can output is often displayed on it. If a panel has a 200 watt capability, that means it will generate 200 watts of electricity per hour. But, keep in mind that is during peak sunlight conditions and at a temperature of at least 25 degrees Celsius.

You will find that models come in a variety of different sizes. Some are very small at around 50 watts. Some are much larger, up to 230 watts. Some may generate even more than this. You will want to realise, though, that these ranges are based on optimal conditions. In most cases, you can expect a drop by about 15 percent in their overall performance since conditions will not be optimal all of the time.

Size matters

Aside from wattage, you also have to consider the actual size of the solar panel itself. The size is a factor because it will need to fit on the structure you have chosen for it. In most cases, the smaller the wattage is, the smaller the physical size of the panel will be, and of course the opposite is true: the larger the wattage, the larger the panel. Look for panels that are capable of producing enough power for your needs, but that also fit well on your roof space. You will need to ensure that the solar power system fits right now, but also think about what your needs may be in the long term. You may be able to expand the solar power system in the future. If you do expand later, you need to consider if you will need to remove all existing panels and start over or just extend what you have presently.

Installing solar panels

Solar panels need to be properly installed to work at their most efficient level. They can be installed on top of your home’s roof, on top of an outbuilding or on top of poles You should try to have them to placed on the south side of the roof so that they get the most sunlight. If possible, ensure they are angled to face towards the sun. If you have a pitched roof, this is easy to do. If you have a flat roof, you may need to install framing to provide for this necessary angle.

Solar panels should be installed where they will receive the maximum amount of sunlight / Source: Hot Water Heroes Pty Ltd

Consult a professional to get a right-sized, properly-designed, and properly-positioned solar panel system for your home. It should be large enough to generate enough electricity to make it worth the cost. Most solar panels systems can be completely installed and running in one day.

Saving money with solar panels

If the solar panels generate too much energy, creating an excess, you can sell that to the power company for extra cash. When you feed the power grid, the power company will pay you one of two ways:

  1. It can pay you a net feed tariff, which pays only for the excess energy generated or,
  2. It can pay a gross fee tariff, which pays for all the electricity the solar panels generate.

Varying from region to region, the solar panel tariffs are guaranteed to be one or the other. This saves homeowners a great deal of money.

Depending on the amount of electricity, your solar panels may reduce your need for traditional electricity to nothing, or very close to it. This could potentially save hundreds of dollars on your utilities bill just by eliminating your dependence on the main grid. As the cost of electricity rises, you can sit comfortably, collecting credits on your utility bill thanks to your solar panels. Those credits can be used for less-productive months, or you can have them paid out in cash.

Contact local solar panel experts

A sustainable choice

One of the greatest benefits of solar panels is their contribution to the environment. Solar panels are much more earth friendly than burning coal, which is where most Australian electricity comes from. If you’re a heavy electricity user, it’s especially important to mitigate the damage of your use, such as releasing greenhouse gases and depleting fossil fuels, by installing solar panels.

The solar panels use the power of the sun to generate electricity, placing almost no burden on the environment. The sun is renewable and readily available. Though manufacturing and disposing of the solar panels does have an impact, they are ultimately far superior to other methods.

Categories
Outdoor living

Spa owners guide: Types, cleaning & maintenance

A spa – also known as a hot tub or a jacuzzi – is essentially bathtub that recirculates water through pressurised jets and an optional in-line heater. This offers a direct massage when you’re sitting in front of a water jet. The water pressure can be directed to massaging sore muscles in your back and neck. Additionally, you get an all over massage from the swirling water. If you’re thinking of buying a spa, or are looking for the best way to clean and maintain one, read our guide to avoid getting yourself into hot water.

Types of hot tubs

Much like pools, there are two types of spas: in ground, and above ground. In-ground spas can be placed either at surface level or on a specially constructed deck. On the other hand, above-ground spas are like bathtubs and are placed above ground. Both come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some can seat up to six, while others are 4-metre long swimming spas.

The most common types of spas are:

  • Portable Spa – Relatively inexpensive and, as the name suggests, these spas are portable.
  • Swim Spa – These spas are designed for swimming in place, similar to the way you would run on a treadmill. They tend to be longer and narrower with high-pressure jests at one end of the pool.
  • Therapeutic Spa – These are designed for hydrotherapy.
  • Spa Baths – The smaller design of these spas makes them great for indoor use by a single user.

In-ground spas

In-ground spas, as the name suggests, is installed into the ground usually next to an in-ground pool. This style is more customisable, and can fit more easily into your space’s aesthetic.

An in-ground pool can fit seamlessly into your outdoor space and take up less room than a portable spa / Source: Silhouette Pool Designer

Portable & semi-portable spas

Another option to consider, particularly if you don’t have a pool is an above-ground portable or semi-portable hot tub. Semi-portable hot tubs aren’t exactly portable – they usually weigh between 180 and 450 kilograms, but they are easier to move and to install. The largest regular hot tubs can take a crane to install, so a semi-portable definitely has advantages.

Actual portable hot tubs are inflatable and can weigh as little as 42 kilograms and fold up pretty compactly. And they can be pretty well featured; a higher-end model may have 136 bubble jets, heat up to 42 degrees Celsius, and seat up to six people. Some even have built-in filtration systems! Inflatable hot tubs cost around $1000.

Spa maintenance

An ordinary bathtub needs to be drained after every use, but a spa has a filtration system and chemicals to keep it clean. However, you will need to periodically drain the spa for cleaning and maintenance. These procedures vary slightly between brands and models, so it’s a good idea to ask about the particular maintenance requirements before purchasing a new spa.

Keep the water chemically balanced

Micro-organisms grow quickly in warm water, so it’s crucial to check the water every day and use additives when necessary. Check the pH level. It should read 7.4 ppm (or parts per million), allowing for a variation of minus or plus .2 ppm. A too-low pH level can corrode the filter and the pipes while a too-high level can cause algae and bacteria to grow.

Add chemicals as and when required to maintain the desired pH and alkaline levels. Most spa owners use chlorine or bromine in their water. Another beneficial technique that can help keep your spa water from turning cloudy and unattractive is to shock the spa water frequently. • Water clarifiers are a valuable additive because they solidify oils, which can then be removed through the filtration system.

Check the filter

A clean filter is essential to prevent debris building up and the water from turning cloudy. The spa’s filtration system needs to be kept in good shape, with proper use and regular maintenance. Check your filter at least once a week, cleaning it whenever necessary – usually monthly – and replacing it once a year. If you use the spa very frequently, you may have to clean or replace the filter more often.

At least every two weeks, pressure clean the filter with a garden hose or power washer set at a low or medium level; don’t use high pressure, as it may cause damage. When the filter is dry, brush it to remove loose particles of debris. Keep your filtration system running for three or four hours daily, whether you’re using the spa or not.

Cleaning and maintaining your spa is essential to keep your water safe / Source: Senator Pools

Avoid oil & soap

If you use the spa wisely and carefully, you can keep it clean for longer. Do not enter the water with oil, soap, sunscreen, deodorants or other products on your body or hair, since these make the water cloudy and dirty. In this case, you will need to overwork the spa filter to get rid of these impurities. It is a good idea to tie up your hair or use a plastic cap while in the spa. Avoid using soap or an ammonia-based agent to clean the spa, since these products can affect the chemical balance of the water in your spa. A much better alternative is to use special spa cleaning solutions or a mixture of bleach and water.

Using an Ozone Generator

An ozone generator is a worthy investment for your spa. It breaks down the oils and other organic matter that contaminate the spa water, thus making it clean and hygienic. As the ozone generator runs, it boosts the functioning of your spa filter and the other chemicals used to clean the spa.

Since different portable spa models require different types of maintenance, it’s a good idea to talk to a portable spa dealer to find out about maintenance dos and don’ts. By keeping your spa and filtration system clean, you’ll be able to enjoy all the relaxing health benefits of your spa without having to worry about possible risks lurking in those soothing warm waters.

Contact local pool and spa experts

Why are micro-organisms a problem?

Micro-organisms are even more of a risk in spas than in swimming pools because of the warm temperatures involved. The recommended temperature for a portable spa is 36 to 38 degrees Celsius, which is also the perfect temperature for micro-organisms to grow and spread. In addition, a spa contains less water than a swimming pool, which can mean a significantly greater concentration of these troublemakers if they’re left unchecked.

Micro-organisms can cause infections of the ear, eye, nose and throat. They can also cause gastric ailments and severe respiratory disease. That’s why spa makers always include filters and accessories to help you keep your spa water clean and bacteria-free.

Categories
Bathroom & laundry

How to fix a leaking toilet cistern

What is a toilet cistern?

A toilet cistern, also known as the tank, is one of the most essential components of toilets and is where water is stored before it’s used to flush the toilet. It’s located above the toilet bowl and may also be higher above the toilet, connected by a single pipe. The cistern has a flushing mechanism in proximity to it to control the water.

Types of toilet cisterns in Australia

1. Concealed Cisterns: These cisterns are installed within the wall cavity, making them completely hidden from view. They are commonly used in modern bathrooms to create a sleek and minimalist look.

2. Close Coupled Cisterns: This is the most common type of cistern used in Australia. The cistern is mounted directly on top of the toilet bowl and connected with a flush pipe.

3. High-Level Cisterns: These cisterns are mounted high on the wall above the toilet bowl and connected with a flush pipe. They are a classic and elegant option often used in heritage homes or to create a vintage look.

4. Low-Level Cisterns: Similar to high-level cisterns, low-level cisterns are mounted on the wall, but much closer to the toilet bowl. They are a good option for those who want a traditional look without the height of a high-level cistern.

5. In-Wall Cisterns: These cisterns are installed within the wall cavity but have an access panel for maintenance. They are similar to concealed cisterns but are easier to access if repairs or maintenance are needed.

6. Dual Flush Cisterns: These cisterns have two buttons or levers that allow you to choose between a full flush or a half flush, depending on the amount of water needed to clear the bowl. They are a popular option for those looking to reduce their water usage. 

7. Caroma Uniset Cisterns: This cistern is a specific type of close-coupled cistern that features a unique design and built-in inlet and outlet valves. It is a popular choice in Australia due to its ease of installation and water efficiency.

8.  Fowler Ware Toilet Cisterns. These cisterns are known for their durability and reliability. They typically have a traditional design and are made of ceramic. These cisterns operate using a flushing mechanism that releases water from the cistern into the toilet bowl to remove waste.

What does a cistern do?

A cistern operates using a valve that controls the water flow with the help of a plastic float. The float is responsible for regulating the water level inside the tank by opening or closing the valve depending on how much water is present. The valve fully opens each time the toilet is flushed to allow more water to enter the cistern and refill it to the required level.

How to replace a toilet cistern?

Suppose the toilet cistern becomes damaged or develops flush tank water leakage. In that case, you’ll need to replace it by completing a few steps. You can complete the project yourself because it’s a simple and common plumbing repair. Start by turning off the shutoff valve clockwise and completely drain out all of the water from the tank. You can use a sponge to absorb any remaining moisture.

Use an adjustable wrench to hold the nut under the tank bolt and unscrew the bolts with a screwdriver. After completely removing the tank, lay it down. In some cases, the washer may not move and come loose. Try using an adjustable wrench to turn it. You can now insert the new spud washer before removing the bolts and gaskets.

You’ll then need to clean around the holes of the tank with a sturdy wire brush to remove any of the old bold gasket, which may still be present on the inside and outside of the tank. The new gasket will only seal properly if the surface is clean. The new gaskets will need to be firmly seated onto the bolts. Reinstall each nut on the bottom of the cistern and tighten them by hand until they feel secure.

The last step of the DIY leaking toilet repair process is tightening the nuts and bolts and alternating to each side until it looks like the gaskets are seated. It’s also important to avoid tightening the bolts too much, which can cause minor cracks to form on the toilet cistern.

How to repair a toilet cistern?

There are a few common ways to fix a leaking toilet cistern to restore its operation and prevent the problem from escalating.

1. Repairing the flush valve – Located in the middle of tanks, the flush valve is one of the main components of the leaking toilet cistern and operates with a float ball. Bend the float arm down to shut off the water. Adjust the water level and also consider replacing the ballcock valve with an updated float-cup style fill valve to avoid potential problems in the future.

2. Fixing a loose flush handle – The lift chain should be reconnected to the lift arm from the flapper. You can also adjust the handle mounting nut located inside of the cistern by rotating it counterclockwise.

Light brown tiled bathroom with double vanity, stand alone bathtub and toilet.
Don’t let a leaking toilet cistern ruin your bathroom / Source: Euroluce Pty Ltd

Toilet cistern washer replacements

Cistern washer – Inlet

You can replace a leaking toilet cistern inlet valve by turning off the water supply to the toilet and flushing the toilet. Remove the blue top and remove the arm from the float cup adjusting rod. Remove the cap by turning the arm counterclockwise before removing the inlet valve head seal.

Cistern washer – Outlet

When you need to perform a toilet cistern washer replacement for the outlet, start by shutting the water off through the mains isolation or the stop tap. Thoroughly drain the tank and remove the old seating washer. The seat should be in good condition before you install the new cistern waster outlet. The seat should be smooth to prevent the new washer from leaking. Install the new piece and verify that the clips are in position.

How to fix leaking cistern valves?

Cistern inlet valve – Remove the lid and flush the system and turn off the water valve before draining all of the water out by flushing the toilet. Remove the broken parts and attach the new pieces onto the cistern inlet valve. As the tank fills with water, check the water level while tightening connections and looking for leaks.

Cistern outlet valve – Turn off the water supply and remove the lid on the toilet cistern. Flush the toilet to remove all of the water and use a sponge to absorb any remaining moisture.

How to fix a cistern flush?

You can fix a cistern flush to avoid wasting any more water when the inlet valve doesn’t shut off once the water reaches the desired level. Start by checking for leaks in the tank with the use of vegetable dye. Lower the float arm to ensure the ball starts to sit lower to ensure the inlet valve shuts off sooner.

Adjust the float levels by adjusting the screw on the float arm and ball to ensure the inlet valve shuts off. Keep a close eye on the water level markings to ensure the water hits the appropriate level. Gently remove the damaged parts and install the new pieces. Check to see everything fits securely. Place the lid back onto the cistern and connect the water valve. Flush the toilet again and check to see if the toilet is still leaking.

When should I call an expert?

It’s important to know when to contact a professional to ensure your toilet continues to operate correctly after you spot toilet leaking. Calling a plumbing expert will allow you to get the toilet back in working order and consult the help of someone with more training and experience.

Contact local plumbing experts

The Problem Persists

You’ll need leaking cistern repair if the problem isn’t resolved with your attempts. You may follow each step and still have questions. You may also have caused more extensive damage during your dripping toilet attempt.

The Parts Aren’t Damaged

After inspecting the parts on your leaking toilet tank, you may not spot any areas where the problem is located. Calling a professional will allow you to hire someone who can diagnose the problem and remedy it if it’s an underlying issue that’s not related to the parts.

You Have Questions

You may have further questions about the mechanisms and operation of your toilet cistern to address, which is when a professional can help. You may want to know how to stop a toilet cistern from overflowing or how to prevent damage or wear to the parts.
If the above steps have not fixed your problem or if you lack confidence in your DIY abilities, it may be time to call a licensed plumber.