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Choosing coffee beans 101: Which to choose and which to avoid?

Lellaham Mam — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 06:54:04 +0000

Feeling lost when it comes to choosing coffee beans? Don’t worry! There are specific guidelines you can follow to ensure you find the perfect coffee for your preferences every time.

With over 70 countries producing around 10 million tons of green coffee beans each year, the task of selecting the right coffee can seem daunting.

So, how exactly do you go about choosing coffee beans? Are there other factors besides taste and price that you should consider?

Absolutely! In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to confidently select coffee beans from the wide array of options available.

How do I choose my coffee beans?

Choosing the perfect coffee beans might feel like navigating a maze with endless options, but fear not! With a few key tips, you’ll be sipping on your ideal cup of joe in no time. Let’s break it down into simple steps to demystify the process:

Know Your Preferences: First things first, ask yourself what kind of coffee you enjoy. Do you prefer a bold, intense flavour or something smoother and milder? Knowing your preferences will guide you in selecting the right beans.
Determine Your Brewing Method: Different brewing methods extract flavours differently. Whether you use a French press, coffee machine, pour-over, or drip coffee maker, each method accentuates different aspects of the coffee bean’s flavour profile. Understanding your preferred brewing method will help narrow down your options.
Consider the Roast Level: Coffee beans come in various roast levels, including light, medium, and dark. Light roasts tend to preserve the bean’s original flavours, while dark roasts develop richer, more caramelized notes. If you’re unsure, start with a medium roast, which strikes a balance between flavour complexity and roast intensity.
Check the Origin: Coffee beans are grown all around the world, each region imparting unique flavours to the beans. For example, beans from Latin America often have a bright acidity with fruity undertones, while those from Africa may exhibit floral or citrus notes. Experiment with beans from different origins to discover your favourite flavour profiles.
Freshness Matters: Opt for freshly roasted coffee beans to enjoy the full flavour experience. Look for a roast date on the packaging and aim to use the beans within 7 to 21 days for the best results. Fresher beans retain more of their natural flavours and aromas, resulting in a more enjoyable cup of coffee.
Consider the Bean Variety: There are two primary species of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are known for their smooth, complex flavours and lower caffeine content, while Robusta beans have a stronger, more bitter flavour and higher caffeine content. Many blends combine both for a balanced taste.
Smell the Beans: Don’t underestimate the power of your sense of smell! Give the beans a whiff to detect any aroma hints. Fresh beans should have a strong, pleasant fragrance that gives you a preview of the flavours you’ll experience in your cup.
Read Reviews and Recommendations: When in doubt, turn to the wisdom of others. Online reviews and recommendations from fellow coffee enthusiasts can offer valuable insights into specific brands or varieties.
Trial and Error: Finding your perfect coffee beans might require some experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different brands, roasts, and origins until you discover what suits your taste buds best.
Storage: Once you’ve found your ideal beans, store them properly to maintain freshness. Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from moisture, heat, and light.

Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be all set to pick the coffee beans that suit your taste buds and brewing style. Now, let’s explore, sip, and relish the adventure of finding your ultimate cup of coffee!

How can you tell good coffee beans?

Recognizing good coffee beans might seem like a daunting task, especially with the abundance of options available. But fear not! With a keen eye (and maybe a nose), you’ll soon become a connoisseur of quality coffee beans.

Here is how to choose your coffee at the beginning:

Appearance: Good coffee beans often have a uniform shape and colour. They should be shiny but not oily, as excessive oiliness could indicate over-roasting. Avoid beans that appear dull, uneven, or discoloured, as these signs may indicate poor quality or improper processing.
Aroma: Ah, the aroma! Good coffee beans emit a delightful fragrance that tantalizes the senses. Give the beans a gentle sniff, and you should detect rich, inviting aromas that hint at the flavour complexity awaiting you. If the beans smell stale, musty, or off-putting, they’re probably past their prime.
Taste Test: The ultimate test of good coffee beans is, of course, the taste test! Brew a cup using your preferred method and pay attention to the flavour profile. Good beans will yield a balanced, flavorful cup with depth and complexity. Look for notes of fruit, chocolate, nuts, or other desirable flavours that enhance the overall experience.
Origin: Like a fine wine, the origin of coffee beans greatly influences their flavour profile. Beans from different regions around the world offer unique characteristics. For example, beans from Ethiopia may have floral and fruity notes, while those from Colombia might be more balanced with hints of chocolate and nuts. Experiment with beans from various origins to discover your preferences.
Price: While price isn’t always an indicator of quality, exceptionally cheap coffee beans are unlikely to offer the same level of flavour and freshness as higher-quality options. Invest in beans that are responsibly sourced and processed, even if they come with a slightly higher price tag.
Packaging: Quality coffee beans are typically packaged in airtight bags with one-way valves to release excess carbon dioxide while preventing oxygen from entering. This packaging helps preserve freshness and flavour. Avoid beans packaged in flimsy or poorly sealed bags, as they may have been exposed to air and moisture.
Reputation and Reviews: When in doubt, turn to the wisdom of others. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or fellow coffee enthusiasts, and read reviews online. Reputable coffee roasters and brands with positive feedback are more likely to offer high-quality beans.
Sustainability and Fair Trade: As consumer awareness grows, so does the demand for sustainably sourced coffee. Look for beans from producers who use eco-friendly farming methods and support fair trade initiatives. Consider whether the production methods align with your values and avoid supporting practices that harm the environment or animals.
Organic Certification (optional): Consider organic coffee, which is often produced by small, independent roasters in collaboration with coffee producers. Look for USDA-certified organic coffee with the appropriate seal on the packaging for added assurance of quality and sustainability.

Remember to keep these factors in mind and trust your senses. You’ll become a pro at identifying good coffee beans that will bring your coffee experience to the next level. Here’s to awesome coffee!

What kind of coffee to avoid?

Avoiding bad coffee is just as crucial as seeking out the good stuff. Nobody wants to start their day with a disappointing cup of joe! Let’s navigate the murky waters of undesirable coffee with some straightforward tips:

Stale Coffee: Stale coffee is a major no-no. It lacks the vibrant flavours and aroma of freshly roasted beans, resulting in a dull and lacklustre brew. To avoid stale coffee, look for beans with a recent roast date and use them within two to four weeks for optimal freshness.
Poor-Quality Beans: Low-quality coffee beans can ruin your coffee experience. These beans are often mass-produced, poorly processed, and may contain defects or impurities. Signs of poor-quality beans include uneven size and shape, dull appearance, and a musty or sour aroma. Opt for beans from reputable sources known for their commitment to quality.
Low-Grade, Mass-Produced Coffee: Steer clear of coffee packed in large bags unless you’re buying it for bulk use. Quality beans typically come in 12-ounce or 5-pound bags, ensuring fair prices and freshness in every cup.
Bitter or Sour Taste: A bitter or sour taste in your coffee could indicate several issues, including over-extraction, improper brewing technique, or low-quality beans. If your coffee consistently tastes bitter or sour, experiment with adjusting your brewing parameters or try a different batch of beans.
Old Ground Coffee: Pre-ground coffee may be convenient, but it sacrifices freshness and flavour. Ground coffee starts to lose its freshness and aroma within minutes of grinding, so it’s best to grind your beans just before brewing. If you must use pre-ground coffee, opt for small batches and store them in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
Artificial Flavors and Additives: Some flavoured coffees are infused with artificial flavours and additives to enhance their taste. While these may appeal to some people, purists prefer to enjoy the natural flavours of coffee beans without any additives. If you prefer a flavoured coffee, look for options made with natural ingredients or consider adding your own flavourings at home.
Cheap Instant Coffee: Instant coffee is a convenient option for a quick caffeine fix, but not all instant coffees are created equal. Cheap instant coffees often contain low-quality beans and additives to cut costs, resulting in a bland and unappealing taste. Invest in higher-quality instant coffee or opt for freshly brewed coffee when possible.
Poor Brewing Methods: Even the best coffee beans can’t compensate for poor brewing methods. Avoid using outdated or poorly maintained coffee equipment, as it can affect the taste and quality of your brew. Invest in high-quality coffee makers, grinders, and accessories, and follow best practices for brewing to ensure a delicious cup every time.
Unethical and Non-Eco-Friendly Coffee: Choose coffee from reputable farmers who prioritize ethical practices, fair wages, and sustainability. Look for Fair Trade initiatives and eco-friendly farming methods like solar drying and reduced pesticide use.
Scantily Labeled Coffee Bean Bags: Pay attention to the labels on coffee bean bags for important information about origin, blend, and freshness. Avoid beans with vague labelling and opt for those with clear information about their provenance and roasting date.

Another thing is you should always check for a “roasted on” date on your coffee labels to ensure that your coffee is top quality. “Best before” dates don’t really tell you the freshness of the beans, so don’t rely on those. Just make sure you pay attention to the label, and you’ll be drinking the freshest coffee possible.

Closing thoughts

When it comes to choosing coffee beans, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach! The most important factors to consider are the quality of the beans, their ethical and sustainable sourcing, and whether you enjoy the taste.

For those of us passionate about coffee sourcing, it’s essential to ensure that the beans meet high standards. Look for beans with excellent colour and cupping scores, ideally above 80.

Expand your palate by trying a variety of coffees with different flavour profiles. This will help you make informed decisions when selecting coffee and fully appreciate the nuances of this beloved beverage!

Ultimately, the best coffee for you is the one that suits your personal taste preferences. Don’t feel pressured to follow trends or drink coffee that doesn’t appeal to you. Experiment with different beans, roasts, and brewing methods until you find your perfect cup of coffee.

The post Choosing coffee beans 101: Which to choose and which to avoid? appeared first on Lellaham Mam.

What are the best lenses for landscape, portrait, sports, bird-watching?

Lellaham Mam — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 09:11:50 +0000

In the world of photography, selecting the right lens is crucial for achieving the desired results in various genres of photography. Whether capturing breathtaking landscapes, intimate portraits, or fast-paced sports action, photographers rely on different types of lenses to bring their creative visions to life. Understanding the characteristics and capabilities of different lenses is essential for making informed choices that align with specific photography goals.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best lenses for different photography genres, including landscape, portrait, bird watching, and sports activities, providing insights into the features and considerations that make each lens ideal for its intended purpose.

How many types of camera lenses?

Camera lenses can be categorized into several types based on their focal length, aperture, and intended use. Here are some common types:

Standard/Normal Lens: Typically has a focal length close to the diagonal size of the camera sensor, providing a natural field of view similar to human vision (around 50mm for full-frame cameras).
Wide-Angle Lens: These have shorter focal lengths, allowing for a wider field of view. They are great for landscape, architecture, and interior photography.
Telephoto Lens: Telephoto lenses have longer focal lengths, allowing you to capture distant subjects with magnification. They are popular for sports, wildlife, and portrait photography.
Prime Lens: Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, meaning they cannot zoom in or out. They often provide superior image quality and wider apertures compared to zoom lenses.
Zoom Lens: Zoom lenses have variable focal lengths, allowing you to zoom in and out without changing the lens. They offer versatility but may sacrifice some image quality compared to prime lenses.
Macro Lens: Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography, allowing you to capture small subjects at a 1:1 magnification ratio or greater.
Fisheye Lens: Fisheye lenses produce extreme wide-angle images with significant distortion, creating a unique look. They are popular for artistic and creative photography.
Tilt-Shift Lens: Tilt-shift lenses allow you to control perspective distortion and depth of field by tilting and shifting the lens elements. They are commonly used in architectural and landscape photography.
Superzoom Lens: Superzoom lenses offer an extensive zoom range, typically from wide-angle to telephoto, in a single lens. They provide convenience but may compromise on image quality compared to specialized lenses.
Speciality Lenses: There are various speciality lenses designed for specific purposes, such as astrophotography, tilt-shift photography, and niche applications.

These are just some of the main types of camera lenses, and there are many variations and subcategories within each type.

What are the best lenses for landscape pictures?

The best lens for landscape photography often depends on personal preferences, shooting style, and the specific requirements of the scene. However, certain types of lenses are commonly favoured for landscape photography due to their characteristics. Here are some popular choices:

Wide-Angle Lens: Wide-angle lenses, typically with focal lengths between 14mm and 35mm (on a full-frame camera), are commonly used for landscape photography. They provide a broad field of view, allowing you to capture expansive landscapes and include more elements in the frame. A wide-angle lens is excellent for emphasizing foreground elements and creating a sense of depth in the image.
Ultra-Wide Angle Lens: Ultra-wide-angle lenses, with focal lengths below 14mm, offer an even broader perspective, capturing vast landscapes and dramatic vistas. They are ideal for shooting in tight spaces or capturing grand panoramic views.
Prime Lenses with Wide Focal Lengths: Prime lenses with wide focal lengths, such as 24mm or 35mm, are popular for landscape photography due to their excellent image quality and sharpness. While they lack the zoom capability of zoom lenses, prime lenses often provide superior optical performance and wider apertures for low-light shooting.
Zoom Lens with Wide-Angle Capability: Some zoom lenses offer wide-angle focal lengths, such as 16-35mm or 24-70mm. These lenses provide versatility, allowing you to adjust the composition without changing lenses. They are suitable for landscape photographers who prefer the flexibility of zoom lenses.
Tilt-Shift Lens: Tilt-shift lenses are specialized lenses that allow you to control perspective distortion and depth of field. They are particularly useful for architectural photography but can also be used creatively in landscape photography to achieve unique effects and precise focus control.

When choosing a lens for landscape photography, consider factors such as focal length, aperture, image quality, size, weight, and budget. Ultimately, the best lens is one that suits your specific needs and helps you achieve your desired creative vision.

What are the best lenses for portrait pictures?

The best lens for portrait photography often depends on personal preferences, shooting style, and the desired look for the portraits. However, certain types of lenses are commonly favoured for portrait photography due to their characteristics. Here are some popular choices:

85mm Prime Lens: An 85mm prime lens is a classic choice for portrait photography on full-frame cameras. It provides a flattering perspective, allowing you to isolate the subject from the background while maintaining natural proportions. The wide aperture of many 85mm lenses (such as f/1.8 or f/1.4) enables beautiful background blur (bokeh) and excellent subject separation.
50mm Prime Lens: A 50mm prime lens is another popular option for portrait photography. On full-frame cameras, a 50mm lens offers a slightly wider field of view compared to an 85mm lens, making it versatile for capturing environmental portraits or full-body shots. Like 85mm lenses, many 50mm lenses have wide apertures for creating pleasing bokeh.
105mm or 135mm Prime Lens: Longer focal length prime lenses, such as 105mm or 135mm, provide greater compression and allow you to further isolate the subject from the background. These lenses are particularly suitable for headshots and close-up portraits, as they minimize distortion and produce flattering facial features.
Zoom Lens with Portrait Range: Some zoom lenses offer focal lengths within the portrait range, such as 70-200mm or 24-70mm. These lenses provide versatility, allowing you to zoom in or out to frame the subject as desired. While they may not offer the wide apertures of prime lenses, they can still produce beautiful portrait images with pleasing bokeh.
Macro Lens: Macro lenses are designed for close-up photography, but they can also be used for capturing detailed portrait shots, especially for beauty or product photography. Macro lenses typically have excellent sharpness and can capture intricate details, making them suitable for high-resolution portrait work.

What are the best lenses for bird watching?

Bird watching often requires lenses with long focal lengths to capture distant subjects with detail. Here are some popular choices for bird photography:

Telephoto Lens (300mm and above): Telephoto lenses with focal lengths of 300mm and above are essential for bird photography, allowing you to reach distant subjects and capture them with detail. Lenses in the 400mm to 600mm range are particularly popular among bird photographers for their reach and ability to fill the frame with small subjects like birds.
Super-Telephoto Lens (600mm and above): Super-telephoto lenses with focal lengths of 600mm or more provide extreme reach, ideal for photographing birds in flight or capturing detailed shots of small birds. These lenses offer excellent magnification and allow you to maintain a safe distance from skittish birds without disturbing them.
Telephoto Zoom Lens: Telephoto zoom lenses, such as 100-400mm or 150-600mm, offer versatility for bird photography, allowing you to adjust the focal length to frame the subject as needed. While they may not provide as much reach as prime super-telephoto lenses, telephoto zooms are more flexible and suitable for various shooting situations.
Image Stabilization/Vibration Reduction: When choosing a lens for bird photography, consider lenses with built-in image stabilization or vibration reduction technology. This feature helps to reduce camera shake when shooting handheld at long focal lengths, allowing you to capture sharp images even in challenging conditions.
Fast Autofocus: Look for lenses with fast and accurate autofocus systems, especially when photographing birds in flight or other fast-moving subjects. Lenses with advanced autofocus motors and focus-tracking capabilities can help you keep up with the unpredictable movements of birds.
Weather-Sealed Construction: Since bird photography often involves spending time outdoors in various weather conditions, consider lenses with weather-sealed construction to protect them from dust, moisture, and harsh elements. Weather-sealed lenses provide peace of mind and durability for outdoor shooting.
Tripod Collar: Super-telephoto lenses often come with tripod collars for mounting them securely on a tripod or monopod. A tripod collar helps distribute the weight of the lens and camera setup more evenly, reducing strain on the camera mount and allowing for smoother panning and tracking of birds in flight.

Ultimately, the best lens for bird photography depends on your specific needs, budget, and shooting preferences. Consider factors such as focal length, image quality, autofocus performance, and lens features when selecting a lens for bird watching.

What are the best lenses for sports activities?

When it comes to capturing sports activities, fast and reliable lenses are essential to freeze action and maintain sharpness, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Here are some popular choices for sports photography:

Telephoto Lens (200mm and above): Telephoto lenses with focal lengths of 200mm and above are commonly used for sports photography, allowing you to capture distant subjects with detail. Lenses in the 300mm to 600mm range are particularly popular for outdoor sports such as football, soccer, and athletics.
Fast Telephoto Prime Lens: Fast telephoto prime lenses with wide apertures, such as f/2.8 or wider, are ideal for sports photography, especially in low-light situations. These lenses allow you to use faster shutter speeds to freeze action and isolate subjects from the background, producing dramatic and dynamic images.
Telephoto Zoom Lens: Telephoto zoom lenses, such as 70-200mm or 100-400mm, offer versatility for sports photography, allowing you to adjust the focal length to frame the action as needed. While they may not provide as much reach as prime telephoto lenses, telephoto zooms are more flexible and suitable for capturing various sports and shooting locations.
Super-Telephoto Lens (400mm and above): Super-telephoto lenses with focal lengths of 400mm or more are essential for capturing distant subjects in sports such as baseball, golf, and motorsports. These lenses provide extreme reach and allow you to fill the frame with distant action, making them ideal for long-distance shooting.
Fast Autofocus: Look for lenses with fast and accurate autofocus systems, especially when photographing fast-moving sports such as basketball, hockey, or track and field. Lenses with advanced autofocus motors and focus-tracking capabilities can help you keep up with the rapid movements of athletes and ensure sharp focus on the subject.
Image Stabilization/Vibration Reduction: Since sports photography often involves shooting handheld or from unstable positions, consider lenses with built-in image stabilization or vibration reduction technology. This feature helps to reduce camera shake and blur, allowing you to capture sharp images even at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths.
Weather-Sealed Construction: Sports photography often takes place outdoors in various weather conditions, so consider lenses with weather-sealed construction to protect them from dust, moisture, and harsh elements. Weather-sealed lenses provide durability and reliability for outdoor shooting, allowing you to focus on capturing the action without worrying about your gear.

Final thought

If you want to take amazing photos, you need to think carefully about what kind of lens you use. Different factors, such as how far you can zoom in, how much light you can let in, how sharp and clear your images are, how fast you can focus, and what special features your lens has, all affect the outcome of your shots. Depending on what kind of photography you do, whether it’s landscapes, portraits, wildlife, sports, or spectacular spots in Sydney, you need to choose the lens that suits your style and vision.

Different lenses have different strengths and weaknesses, and knowing how to use them to your advantage can help you express yourself better and create images that connect with your audience. When you take photos, every picture has a story to tell. The right lens is not just a tool but a way to open up new possibilities and capture moments that last forever.

The post What are the best lenses for landscape, portrait, sports, bird-watching? appeared first on Lellaham Mam.

Why Is Your Hot Water Heater Not Working? What Are the 10 Ways to Fix Your Water Heater?

Lellaham Mam — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 07:19:31 +0000

If your hot water heater isn’t working, you might assume that you need a professional to sort it out. However, there are common issues, such as leaks, not enough hot water, or discoloured water, that you can tackle on your own. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple adjustment or pushing a reset button.

But Before you start fixing anything, make sure that your water heater comes with a warranty that covers some professional repairs or not. Look at the paperwork that came with your water heater or check the label on the side of the heater that shows the model and serial number. These numbers indicate the tank’s production year and can help you figure out if the tank has a warranty that could provide a new tank or parts, either for free or at a reduced cost. Keep in mind that warranties usually don’t cover the cost of labour.

Now that everything is set, we are going to move on to why your water heater is not working and how to fix it.

Related article: How to DIY Clear a Clogged Shower Drain

10 Reasons Why Is Your Hot Water Heater Not Working.

So, why is your hot water heater not working? The answers are several, we have listed them into 10 common issues and we’ll get through them one by one.

1. No Hot Water

When your water heater isn’t providing hot water, it could be due to a lack of power, a tripped limit switch, or malfunctioning heating elements.

2. Inadequate Hot Water

If your water heater is making some hot water but not enough, it may be too small for your household’s hot water needs.

3. Water Temperature Is Too Hot

If your water is excessively hot, it’s likely because one or both of your water heater’s thermostats are set too high.

4. Water Heater Is Leaking

Water leaks in water heaters often result from leaky valves and plumbing connections. If the water feels warm or hot when you touch it, the outlet pipe is likely the source of the leak.

5. Rust-Coloured Water or Unpleasant Odour

When water with a brown, yellow, or red tint comes out of your faucets, it might mean that the inside of your water heater tank is corroded. If the hot water smells like rotten eggs, there may be bacteria in the tank.

6. Tank Making Noises

If you hear strange sounds like low rumbling, popping, or high-pitched whining from your water heater, it could mean that the water inside the tank is getting too hot. The culprit is often sediment buildup at the tank’s bottom, causing overheating and boiling.

7. Leaking Cold Water Inlet

When you notice water collecting at the top of your water heater, it may be due to a leak in the cold water inlet, located at the top of the heater. Tightening this connection often stops the water from leaking.

8. Damaged Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature pressure relief valve on the side of the water heater may develop a slow leak. In many cases, you can replace the valve yourself.

9. Water Heater Is Leaking From the Sides

If you notice water seeping from the sides of your water heater, it’s likely due to a damaged or corroded tank, causing water to escape from specific areas like holes or cracks.

10. Condensation on the Water Heater

Sometimes, water heaters that seem to be leaking are actually experiencing condensation. In this case, you’ll see moisture spread over the outside of the tank, rather than originating from specific cracks or inlet issues.

How to Fix Your Hot Water Heater?

How to Fix: No Hot Water

Check the circuit breaker for your water heater in the electrical panel to ensure it’s not tripped. If it has tripped, switch it from the OFF to ON position.
If the circuit breaker is fine, reset the high-temperature limit on the heater. Turn off the power to the water heater in the electrical panel, remove the access panel, and press the red high-temperature reset button.

How to Fix: Inadequate Hot Water

If your water heater is undersized, manage hot water use by taking shorter showers, installing low-flow showerheads, and scheduling dishwashing and laundry at different times of the day.
If your heater used to provide sufficient hot water but suddenly doesn’t, one or both of its heating elements could be faulty:
- A consistent supply of lukewarm water during a shower may indicate a defective upper heating element.
- Quickly running out of hot water may signal a problem with the lower heating element.

In either case, it’s best to have a professional replace the heating elements or consider replacing the entire water heater.

How to Fix: Water Temperature Is Too Hot

Turn off the power to your water heater from the electrical panel.
Remove the access panel and ensure that the thermostat settings on both units are not above 50°C (~120°F).
Adjust the settings to your desired temperature by turning the set screw with a flathead screwdriver.

How to Fix: Water Heater Is Leaking

Inspect your water heater for loose inlet or outlet pipes.
Use a wrench to tighten any loose connections to stop the leak.

How to Fix: Rust-Coloured Water or Unpleasant Odour

For discoloured water, contact a plumber to replace the anode rod in the water heater tank. An anode rod is a metal rod inside the water heater that corrodes more easily than the tank itself. This attracts corrosive oxygen away from the tank.

How to Fix: Tank Making Noises

Turn off the power and water supply to your water heater.
Completely drain the water heater to get rid of both water and sediment:
- Connect a garden hose to the valve at the bottom of the water heater, with the other end outside.
- Open both the temperature pressure relief valve at the top and the drain valve at the bottom.
- After all the water and sediment have drained out, close the bottom valve and the upper-pressure relief valve, then remove the hose.
Turn the power and water back on.

How to Fix: Leaking Cold Water Inlet

First, turn off the water supply to the water heater.
Use a wrench to tighten the inlet connection by turning it clockwise.
Turn the water supply back on, dry the top of the water heater, and check for any further leakage.

How to Fix: Damaged Pressure Relief Valve

Turn off the electricity and the cold water supply to the water heater.
Release water and pressure by opening the valve with a bucket placed below the plastic relief valve drain pipe.
Unscrew the pressure relief valve using a pipe wrench.
Screw the new valve into the water heater, making sure to use the plumber’s tape.
Attach the plastic relief valve drain pipe.

How to Fix: Water Heater Is Leaking From the Sides

Any tank with such damage or corrosion on the tank itself needs to be replaced, as it’s not safe to repair them.

How to Fix: Condensation on the Water Heater

Water heater condensation usually doesn’t signal a problem with the heater, but excessive moisture can harm your floor.

Lower the temperature to 50°C (~120°F) or even lower, such as 45-46°C (~115°F).
Consider hiring a plumber to disconnect the water heater and install a drain pan underneath to capture any drips.

How to Maintain Your Hot Water Heater

Maintaining your water heater is essential to prevent future issues and ensure it operates efficiently. A key step in this maintenance routine is draining the water heater at least once a year. This helps remove sediment buildup, which can impair the heater’s performance. Another important aspect is insulating the pipes connected to the heater, as it reduces heat loss and can save energy.

Regular inspections by a professional are also crucial to catch any potential problems early. Additionally, it’s advisable to keep the water heater’s temperature at 50°C (~120°F) or lower to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of scalding. Periodically testing the temperature pressure relief valve, ideally once or twice a year, is essential for safety; use a bucket to catch the water discharge during the test.

Finally, don’t forget to have a plumber replace the anode rod about every five years to protect the tank from corrosion and extend the water heater’s lifespan.

The post Why Is Your Hot Water Heater Not Working? What Are the 10 Ways to Fix Your Water Heater? appeared first on Lellaham Mam.

How Often Should I Have My Air Conditioner Checked? Can You Clean Your Own Air Conditioner?

Lellaham Mam — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 06:55:57 +0000

Just like your car or bike, air conditioners need regular maintenance to make sure they work properly. If you don’t get your AC serviced regularly, dust and dirt will build up in the fans, filters, coils, and other parts. When you turn on the AC, this gunk will slowly harm the inside parts and reduce how well it works.

Your AC won’t cool the room well, even after running for a long time. This leads to high electricity bills, a malfunctioning AC, and costly repairs!

Related article: How to DIY Clear a Clogged Shower Drain

Why Is It Important to Get Your AC Serviced?

To make your AC last longer and work more efficiently.
To save money on your electricity bills.
To improve the air you breathe, reducing the risk of breathing problems and skin allergies.
To catch small issues early, so they don’t turn into big problems.
Cleaning your air conditioner prevents the growth of harmful microbes, mould, mildew, and other contaminants, which also improves air quality.

How Often Should I Have My Air Conditioner Checked?

Air conditioning experts suggest a thorough service at least once a year.

The ideal time to service your air conditioner is just before the seasons change.

If you have a cooling-only unit, spring is a great time to service it, preparing it for the summer. If you own a reverse-cycle air conditioner, service it twice: once in spring and again in autumn to ensure both heating and cooling functions operate correctly.

The frequency of servicing also depends on your usage. If you use your AC constantly, it might require more than one or two services.

Can You Clean Your Own Air Conditioner?

Yes, you can, even though we would like to suggest hiring a professional, but all in all, we can do it ourselves. So, how can we do it, we have the standard list you can follow here:

Clean the Air Filter

One of the simplest DIY methods for air conditioner maintenance is cleaning the filters. You can also replace the filter by taking out the old one and putting in a new one. Refer to the instruction manual to find the correct filter size.

How often should you change the AC filter?

If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area, consider replacing the filters every 60 days. For low usage, change the filter every 4-6 months.

Clean the Vents and Outside Unit

For outdoor AC units, condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least two feet gives adequate airflow around the condenser. Also, shading the outside unit can increase its efficiency by up to 10%!

Visually Inspect the Pipes

Take a look at the pipes to check for any signs of damage.

After cleaning the air conditioner, switch it on and observe

- Is the unit effectively cooling your space?
- Is it running quietly?
- Is there any unusual odour? Some odour may be present due to accumulated dust and should gradually dissipate.

Watch for Excess Water

- If you notice a significant amount of water near the outdoor unit or inside your home, it might be a sign of a refrigerant leak.
- For safety reasons, avoid attempting to dismantle the indoor or outdoor unit unless you are a professional.
- Leave more complex maintenance to the experts.

Is It Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner?

Unfortunately, air conditioners, like all appliances, have a limited lifespan. Dealing with a malfunctioning AC can be frustrating, especially when it no longer serves its cooling purpose.

To help you decide, here are some warning signs to watch for and consider scheduling a replacement.

Here are 6 indicators that it might be time to replace your air conditioner.

If your unit is more than a decade old, frequently breaks down, and requires costly repairs, replacing it is the best choice.
Check the energy rating label on your AC. Higher stars indicate greater energy efficiency. If your current unit lacks energy efficiency, upgrading to a more efficient model is advisable.
If your AC continues to break down and demand expensive repairs, it may be time for a replacement.
If your AC struggles to cool the room effectively, it’s a sign that it’s not working optimally.
A noisy unit can be a clear indication that something is amiss with your AC.
If you notice leaks around the AC unit, this could signify a significant issue that may necessitate a replacement.

Final Thought

When considering the maintenance and longevity of your air conditioner, it’s important to take a proactive approach. Regular servicing and cleaning can keep your AC in good working condition. Additionally, understanding the signs that indicate the need for a replacement can help you make informed decisions about your cooling system.

Keeping your air conditioner well-maintained and knowing when it’s time for a replacement are key factors in ensuring you have a reliable and efficient cooling solution for your home.

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