Livingston Reporting - page 114

The Basics of Choosing the Right Water Softener For Your Home and Family

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

 

KODAK Digital Still Camera

Water softeners take bathing to an all new level, especially after accepting and coming accustomed to hard water showers.   If you are ready to bathe in silky smooth water, if you are excited for clear uncolored, smell free water, and if you are anxious to stop cleaning with harsh rust removers, we might just have the perfection solution for you.

Choosing a water softener, often misspelled as “water softner”, we can help with options ranging from traditional household water softeners, salt-free water softeners, dual- tank softeners and combinations that include reverse osmosis, whole house filters, arsenic removal and more.

Issues With Hard Water

Water softeners solve the problem of hard water.  When your homes water is filled with extra minerals such as calcium, magnesium carbonate or manganese it is considered hard.  Some homeowners note that soap doesn’t lather correctly, their dishes are spotted, sinks and tubs have rings, bright colored laundry looks dingy, skin feels rough, and other annoying side effects.  An analysis of your homes water is the only way to truly “diagnosis” your homes water and determine if a water softener is truly the right solution. These extra minerals don’t normally pose a risk to your overall health however, not treating hard water can cause issues with your homes plumbing, water heating system, appliances, and such.  In research done by the U.S. Geological Survey over eighty five percent of American homes have problems with hard water in their homes.

As previously mentioned, one way to get rid of hard water is to install a water softener.  The water from your home is not considered hard unless it contains more than 1 GPG of dissolved hard materials however, water with up to 3.5 GPG is considered soft.  Noticeably hard water contains upward of 3.5 GPG with 10.5 GPG being considered extremely hard.  Anything between the two extremes is considered moderately hard and should be properly treated.

Damage To Home From Hard Water

Hard water is more annoying and expense than a risk to the health of you and your family.  In fact, many issues that are created because of a home’s hard water supply stay hidden until an actual malfunction in the plumbing or your appliances bring it to light.  Scale can cake on to the inside of your plumbing, water heaters, and appliances causing major issues for you.  This on top of the issues that are general nuisances in the everyday running of your household.

One of the most common fixes for hard water is the installation of a water softener.  There are a variety of water softeners that people can install in their homes or businesses to improve the quality of your water.   The most common whole-house water softener that is installed is known as a salt ion-exchange water softener.  Salt ion-exchange water softeners have two tanks.  One of the tanks is filled with brine and the other special resin beads.  The water becomes soft by exchanging salt ion for hard minerals.

Another option is a salt-free water softener that operates in a similar manner as a salt ion-exchange water softener however uses potassium-chloride instead of softener salt.  Hard minerals are not reduced but instead prevent the minerals from being deposited as scale to plumbing and such.

Dual-tank water softeners are yet another option.  Unlike typical water softeners that disconnect from the water system when recharging making them basically out of commission during the process, dual water tanks always have on tank in use while the other regenerates.  Thus, no downtime in water usage.  For most families the water softening rejuvenation process in common water softeners takes place at night when water is most often not in use, for big families or families with varying schedules a dual water softener can be a better fit.

The Right Size Water Softener

Water softeners come in a variety of different sizes, the size of the softener you need for your household will depend on the size of your home and the number of people using water in your household.  It is important that when purchasing a new water softener, you select one that is the right size to handle the demands of your home and family.  Remember the physical size of the unit is not particularly important, it is the systems ability to remove minerals from the water at a pace that keeps up with your needs. This can be determined when the water from your home is analyzed.

Along with choosing the right size water softener for your home it is important to choose a softener with features and controls that are necessary.  It is important for homeowners to know what controls the regeneration cycle, how long each regeneration cycle takes, as well as the amount of water and salt needed for recharging.  Softeners use two different control options: automatic timing and demand-initiated regeneration no matter what option is on your softener, the salt needs to be monitored on a regular basis to prevent running low.

The professionals at Reynolds Water Conditioning can help you select and install the best option in water softener for your family.

The experts at Reynolds Water Conditioning have a solution to your homes unique water quality needs including: arsenic, bacteria, chlorine, rotten egg smell, fluoride, hard water, iron, lead, acid, tannins, radon, and more.  More information on our water treatment solutions including water softeners and conditioners, water filtration and purification, reverse osmosis drinking water, and iron & odor removal can be found online at https://reynoldswater.com.

Reynolds Water

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How Will I Know If It’s Time To Redo My Pools Plaster Finish?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is one question we are asked more than any other.  Can you guess what it is? If you guessed, “When will I know it is time to re-plaster my pool?” you were right!

Unfortunately there isn’t one simple answer we can give you except that trust us, you will know when it’s time.  There is a great deal of difference between when a commercial pools plaster needs to be re-done verse a residential pool.  Most often commercial pools can expect to be re-plastered once every ten years.  However, when evaluating if a residential pool needs to be re-plastered a number of factors, not just time go into determining if a pool needs to be re-plastered.

When determining when a residential pool is ready to have its plaster replaced comes down to the aesthetics and structural integrity.

Aesthetics

Most often phone calls from residential pool owners start out with a long explanation on how the pool doesn’t look or feel right.  If a homeowner’s plaster has light staining it is possible that instead of fresh plastering that the stains can be removed through acid washing. Since pool plaster is a natural product it is impossible to prevent staining from occurring.  If the pool is white and the noticeable stains bother homeowners, we will most often recommend a colored plaster be used when the plaster needs to be refinished.

Some stains are from the minerals that are found in your water.  If this is the case homeowners will want to take care of the mineral problem in the water before re-plastering the pool.  Remember that minerals not only affect the homes water but can also leave build up in pipes and plumbing.  The issue must be addressed throughout the source of the water to prevent staining issues in the future.

Some stains on a pools plaster aren’t stains at all and are in fact from the combination of plaster and application of white coating.  There are variations that occur from a combination of things: variation in the mixture, the temperature at which it is applied, and the method of application.  Slight variations in the plaster should be considered normal.

The Touch of Plaster

The feel of the plaster is just as important as the look.  The pools plaster is supposed to be soft and smooth.  Pits and pockets can occur from improper water chemistry or from acid washing too frequently.  If etching occurs on your pools plaster the surface can feel rough, snag swimsuits and can give algae and dirt a place to hold onto. Another common reason for etching is a poor plastering technique or plaster that is too hot or includes too much calcium in cold water. If rough plaster occurs in a small, localized area, it can be sanded smooth, however if it is wide spread it is recommended to re-plaster the pool.

Structural Issues

Structural issues are another reason that residential pool owners need to consider re-plastering their pools.  “Structural” may be an improper term because as you know the structure of a pool is created from steel webbing and sprayed in concrete and the plaster is the outer, waterproof coating on top.  If a pool was left without the addition of a plaster shell the water would slowly seep through to the ground.  If homeowners start to see bare spots coming through the concrete it is time to have the plaster evaluated.  Large cracks in pools plaster can also be an issue structurally and should be addressed as soon as they are spotted.  Waiting gives the crack time to expand and larger issues to occur.

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings.  More information can be found at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Reduce the Cost of Shipping Freight with These Strategies

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is an assumption when it comes to shipping freight and costs associated with it that prices are set in stone and there really isn’t anything you can do to change it.  Just because your company has always shipped in the manner that they do does not mean that there isn’t a better way out there to do it. Technology has come along way since many business’s integrated their shipping process into the supply chain.   It may just be time to reevaluate the way in which your company ships freight.

Reducing Freight Costs

Night Time Fright Pick Ups –

Scheduling freight picks up after regular business hours can save a business upwards of 50%.  This is a relatively simple change that can be put into place and works well for companies that have more than one shift.  Freight companies are on the go 24/7 with most of their pickups and deliveries during normal business hours.  Offering pickups at night allows shippers to free up some of that precious daytime schedule.

Contract Steady Lane Volume –

Anytime you can guarantee, in the form of a contract, shipments, carriers are more likely to cut you a deal.  When a carrier can build their schedule around guaranteed shipments, allowing for increased efficiency it benefits both of you.  Carriers are more likely to make room on shipments for loyal customers with contracts in place.

Off-Peak Ship Days:

Who knew that the day you send your shipment could affect the price you pay, but it does.  Fridays and Mondays are both considered off days for shipping freight.  Most companies want their shipments to be in place by Thursday in order to allow for them to be shelved by the weekend.  Monday is another light day for carriers and a good day to ship if your company is looking to save money on freight.  Off-peak shipping may not be an option for fresh goods however for non-consumer goods it is a good option.

Develop Relationships –

Don’t Fall for Special Introductory Rates:  It may be tempting to be a rate jumper but in actuality it can hurt you a great deal because you never have time to develop a relationship with the carrier.  Severing relationships with new carriers each and every year is not the best approach.  A better option is to create a long-term relationship with your carrier.  This allows you, the shipper to create a strategic, long-term relationship with their carriers.  Longer term contracts offer benefits for both carriers and shippers.

Matrix Transportation is the fastest growing freight transport company in the Midwest, founded in 2009.  As an up and coming industry leader in freight management including shipping, warehousing, and cross docking services with the highest quality transportation solutions for the manufacturing and automotive industries. More information can be found at http://www.matrixtransportation.com/.

Matrix Transportation

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Before Any Home Renovations These 8 Things Are Important

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Home improvement projects can easily be derailed by the smallest of mistakes.  Ordering the wrong material, an unprofessional contractor, or unrealistic budget, can take a plan and turn it upside down.  As a homeowner it is up to you to be prepared for your renovation.  Here are a few things to consider before taking on another renovation whether you hire a professional contractor such as Kearns Brothers or attempt to DIY.

Understand What You Like

If you have been considering renovations to your home for awhile now you probably have created a number of Pinterest boards for each room in your house.  You most likely have some ideas of exactly what you want your renovated space however, it is important to plan whether your renovation is cosmetic only or if you will be changing the structure of the home.  Structural changes will take a number of specialty contractors working together to ensure the plumbing, electrical, and structure of the home functions properly with the newly renovated space.

Budgeting

The phrase “dream house” wasn’t invented because it exists in real life.  Obviously when renovating, the goal is to create your dream space however in the real world this needs to be accomplished within a manageable budget.  Before you become to invested in any one concept or material take time to check out the costs of materials at your local home improvement center and average labor costs in your area.

Myth vs Reality

Sometimes what we want just can’t happen because it is not feasible in our home.  It may seem like adding a bathroom to your upstairs master bedroom should be simple however, sometimes it because unrealistic because of the budget needed to configure plumbing where it is needed.  Before committing to a project of any magnitude it is crucial to meet with an architect and contractor for insight.  You may decide the idea needs to be scraped or reinvented.

Hire a Professional Contractor or DIY

For all but the simplest renovations hiring a professional contractor is the best option in home improvement.  I can’t express in numbers the amount of times I am called into clean up a mess from a renovation that a homeowner began but just can’t finish.  Before you begin a renovation, consider the amount of free time you have to complete the project at hand.  Not many homeowners have the time for renovations on top of their full-time jobs and general commitments. Enlisting the help of a contractor not only saves you time but often money as well.

Colors and Materials

Another element of renovation that is often forgotten is how different colors and materials that are used with look in the space especially as the light changes.  Place samples of the colors and materials you are looking at using throughout the space you are renovating and walk through the area a few times a day for a couple of days to see if you really love them as much as you think you do.  Oak cabinets may look simply unbelievable in the aisle of the home improvement store but when in your space, light, and surrounded by the colors you desire, oak might just not look like you desired.

Thoroughly Check Out Your Vet

We aren’t just talking about online reviews and testimonials, do research into:

  • Licensing
  • Insurance
  • Workers’ Comp
  • Bond Certification
  • Lien History

After meeting with several contractors, going over their credentials and your project, you should have a pretty good feel for what working like with each contractor.

Detailed Contract

Everyone, contractors and homeowners, are all elated at the start of a new home improvement project.  However, it is crucial to be prepared.  Contracts with any outside professionals, including home improvement contractors, need to be airtight, detailed, and specific to your project.  They should include:

  • A Schedule for Payments
  • Penalties for Missed Milestones (for both contractor and homeowner)
  • Details on All Work to Be Done

Having a detailed layout of what is expected, in writing can save both contractors and homeowners from hassles and headaches down the line.

Timing

If you think of terms that are synonymous with home improvement timeliness is not one of them.  Remodeling is often notorious for requiring more time than what was budgeted.  It could be weather, delays, order issues, subcontractor issues, and more.  The most important aspect is to plan accordingly.  Don’t plan a major family dinner party for the day after you expect your kitchen renovation to be completed.

As a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all Southeast Michigan, Kearns Brothers, Inc. offers clients a wide range of services to meet their construction needs including: roofing, siding, window, masonry, chimneys, gutters, and insulation services.  More information can be found at www.kearnsbrothers.com.

Kearns Brothers

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Aluminum Fencing: Doing It Your Self from Beginning to End

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are a number of home improvement projects that no one would recommend you take on from start to finish without hiring a professional however, installing an aluminum fence is!

Don’t let the size of the project and materials to turn you off.  I know many times homeowners are horrified at the thought of a “DIY” task.  Large projects like installing a fence around the perimeter of your yard or pool doesn’t sound simple no matter how you say it however, it is quite plausible when working with a wholesale aluminum fence supplier like, iFenceUSA.  One of the best features is doing a project like installing an aluminum fence is that you are in charge of directing the whole thing from ordering online all the way to latching the aluminum gate when installation is complete.

At iFenceUSA, planning for and ordering wholesale aluminum fence panels is fairly simple especially with the support of our customer service professionals.  Not only do we have software available that allows you to visually see the fence in place, we offer free samples of all the colors and grades of aluminum fencing offered.  Having everything right where you can see it, touch it, and manipulate it allows for a better experience.  You get a hands on experiencing without the bulk of moving large, aluminum fence panels with free samples and the ability to move it about with our unique fencing software.  The whole process of shopping online for aluminum fencing eliminates the back and forth that most often happens during most “DIY” home improvement projects.

Doing It Yourself from Planning, Ordering, Installation, and Upkeep

Anytime you can plan for and order the materials for a project from the comfort of your own home you are winning the home improvement game.  The iFenceUSA website offers a number of options to help make ordering your aluminum fence panels simpler.  From informational sections to vivid images and complete step-by-step installation instructions it is all at the tip of your fingers.  After reviewing the 18 different style of aluminum fence panels and available options, you will come to find that ordering your fence is perhaps the easiest of the “DIY” aspects.  At this point it is as easy as entering the measurements to make sure that the exact amount of aluminum panels and posts are ordered.  One thing that can’t be stressed enough is to check and re-check the measurements.  It is best to avoid surprises upon delivery if at all possible.

After the aluminum panels, posts, accessories, and options all delivered comes the real, nitty-gritty process of installation.  To prepare to install your fence it is crucial that you take time to read the instructions thoroughly.  This helps to prepare you as far as the tools you will need and the expectations overall.  There is a benefit to reviewing the diagrams and instruction manuals throughout the process to avoid complications.

Lastly is the upkeep of your newly installed aluminum fencing panels.  This is the easiest of all of the steps in the “DIY” aluminum fence project.  Not only is aluminum fencing durable, it is without a doubt the easiest fence material to maintain and keep looking as good as it did the day you installed it.  Twice a year it is important to give your fence a quick once over with a good wash and general maintenance as you see it is needed.  That’s it, that is all there is to your new aluminum fence.

iFenceUSA is an online distributor of wholesale aluminum fences and gates for residential, resort, commercial, and industrial installation.  As an industry leader in maintenance-free aluminum fencing products we have all your aluminum fence and gate needs covered.  More information can be found online at https://ifenceusa.com/.

 

iFenceUSA

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The Importance of Fire Blocking Techniques and Products In Construction

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The last thing that homeowners want or deserve from their contractor is short cuts taken in their home improvement project.  When doing any renovation around the home from installing a new door between your garage and your home, as in the picture above, or adding a new room onto an existing structure, the homeowner’s safety, now and in the future, is of utmost importance.

The need for for stopping or blocking

One safety issue we have found in many house’s that we have worked on is the lack of fire stopping or fire blocking with in the walls and door jams of homes.  Even though building codes and regulations state that fire blocking materials are included in construction, it is an all too often short cut that less than professional contractors take.  Talk with any firefighter and they will agree that this is a huge mistake.  Proper installation of fire blocks and fire blocking materials within walls and doorways is a property and life saver.

People have been seriously injured or lost their lives because of the lack of simple fire stopping blocks.  Fire stopping blocks are a simple component used in framing homes that when done correctly can help decrease the speed at which fire ravages your home, giving your family more time to escape.  This building technique is not as common in older homes, thus leading to a total loss of many older homes.

Modern day home construction

In modern day construction horizontal double 2×4’s can be seen on top of vertical studs to create a wall blocking system.  This helps to seal in the cavity and separate it from the one next to it which in turn works to prevent the rapid spread of fire throughout your home.

Without properly installed fire stop, the framing in your home can act like many mini chimneys throughout the home.  In older homes it was common to be able to drop an item from the homes attic only to have it shoot out on the basement floor moments later.  With out a barrier between the floors, flames are sucked up through the walls, acting very much like a chimney.

It may be hard to believe but the use of a single solid piece of wood at the top and bottom of the wall in between the studs can significantly reduce how fast fire spreads throughout the home.  If a fire does occur within the wall, the top block will help stop the fire from shooting upwards and into the home’s attic. Fire blocking at the intersections of joists and walls as well as sideways between floor and ceiling joists can literally save your family.

Materials used for fire blocking

Another material that can be used in construction and during renovations is known as Fireblock foam insulation and fire barrier caulk. When a hole is created within the home it is important that it is filled.  Not only will it help to prevent drafts, it also helps to stall fires from sneaking between the walls. Fireblock products should always be used when contractors are installing door jams or have created holes.  Plumbers, electricians, heating contractors, and even general contractors should all be well versed in the use of Fireblock products.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Managed IT Services: Finding A Compatible IT Provider for Your Business

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As you are interviewing providers to provide your business with managed IT services it is crucial that you know what you need and exactly what services you are looking for.  Below we will provide you with some tips you should keep in mind while you are interviewing companies to become your new managed IT services.

In business, no matter if you are growing or happy where you are currently at, your IT infrastructure is crucial.  Many small business owners try to manage their IT services without hiring an outside source.  However, as they grow, they find that their IT service needs become more than they can manage on their own.  This is where companies such as Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, can help.  Managed IT services leverage the use of technology to increase efficiency throughout your organization.

Managed IT providers, MSP, is a company that is an outsourced provider of set IT tasks for your business.   Many MSP providers are seen as your company’s “internal” IT team as most are available to provide services to you 24/7, after business hours may be considered emergency only.  A major benefit of MSP providers is that they become part of your company without the overhead and extra staff.

Important Features of Your Managed Services Provider

IT Support When You Need It – 24/7/365

One detail that many IT service contracts include is availability.  Although most MSP providers offer services round the clock it is common that services provided outside of what is agreed upon as normal business hours is done at an additional premium.  The point being that they are available when you need them.  Catastrophes don’t always occur during “regular” business hours.  It is important that even though your IT company isn’t open 24/7/365, they are available when and if you need them.

Backups and Data Recovery

It is crucial that your service provider has in place specific procedures for backups and data recovery.   Most companies don’t know the benefits of an IT provider until an actual catastrophe occurs.  When a data failure occurs, and you are required to restore your company information based on the backups that are in place is probably not the time to learn the company you hired is subpar.

Maintenance and Preemptive Support

Not only is the purpose of hiring an MSP about having support when a problem occurs, it is about being proactive and preventing issues before they occur.  IT support providers need to be able to not only monitor the existing IT infrastructure they should also derail potential problems before they occur.

Hire an MSP Provider That Understands Your Company

Every business is unique and therefore needs special attention paid to their unique needs.  Find a provider that wants to learn about your company in detail.  In order to provide your business with a successful IT solution and suggest strategies to grow your company they must understand your companies wants and needs.

Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, is an all-inclusive IT solutions company offering a variety of services including: managed IT services, IT consulting, residential computer services, custom programming, website design, iphone & android app development, and more.  More information can be found at https://cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

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Planning for and Purchasing a Linear Accelerator

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A lot of different aspects go into the purchasing procedure of equipment used throughout medical facilities, health clinics, and hospitals.  Unlike other business, hospitals are not only looking for equipment that is affordable, they are searching for equipment that provides clients with effective treatment, precise results, and quality care.  In order to do so, the purchasing team of the facility must work in conjunction with physicians and critical care staff to plan for new equipment purchases.

Planning & Understanding Your Clinical Goals

Critical personnel must understand the clinical goals of the clients.  Right from the start it is important that all facility members involved recognize the types of patients that will be treated, and the technology needed to deliver top notch radiation therapy to them.  Is important that you are fully automated and digital?  Does the facility need to consider EPID, Electronic Portal Imaging Device?  Will images of tumors be taken on a daily or less frequently?  If you will be then an IGRT solution must be selected.  It is also important to know how the tumor will be defined for treatment.  Are you going to need a multi-leaf collimator with leaves (MLC)?  Answering these questions will help your facility narrow down your exact need and the piece of equipment that will fill these needs.

Another crucial element in planning for a new piece of equipment, especially one as large as a linear accelerator, CT scanner, or other radiotherapy equipment is the location in which it will be installed.  In new construction you will have to consider the machines that are to be places now as well as technology that will be used in the future.  It will be crucial that the building has room for expansion for further equipment purchases as well as the technology appropriate for today’s need.  When renovating an existing space within the facility it is important to consider all of the constraints present such as shielding.

Having an established timetable for any project, especially the installation of LINAC systems, is the only way to successfully manage a successful health care facility when the normal flow could be disrupted.  Of course, it also helps prevent common sense issues such as having a space that is ready for equipment when it is delivered to be installed, set up, programmed, and ready for hands on training.  What good is a piece of equipment it is sitting in the hallway unable to be used?  It is important for facilities and personnel to establish a timetable for each milestone along the way, including a completion date.  There are many moving elements, including a number of experts, when installing a large scaled piece of equipment.  To prevent IT specialists from arriving before the equipment is ready for them to complete software installation and such, a timeline is necessary.

Once a clinical goal and time table have been set, now comes the time to create a budget for the acquisition of your new equipment.  Once a budget is set you will know if you should look into new, refurbished, or used equipment.  Quality refurbished linear accelerators and reconditioned CT scanners are ideal when working within a budget.  Prices vary for a number of reasons including: the age of the equipment, features, technology, and manufacturer.  When budgeting for large scaled equipment make sure to allocate for additional products and services that will be needed to use them successfully.  Radiation therapy includes large scaled equipment such as linear accelerators but also patient positioning devices and the such.  It is just as important to budget for the extras as it is the initial piece of equipment.

As an independent LINAC service company, Acceletronics is dedicated to delivering the best equipment performance and services for linear accelerators and CT scanners across all major brands and models, as well as new and refurbished LINAC systems for sale.  More information can be found online at https://www.acceletronics.com/.

Acceletronics

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Recovery After Lasik: What to Expect

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

LASIK is a common surgical procedure that is performed everyday throughout the United States.  The biggest concern that most patients have surrounds recovery.  It is important to note that although the surgery last only a few minutes per eye, the long-term recovery process, complete healing, can take upwards of six months.  Here are some common side effects and how you can relieve them.

Overall Discomfort and Minor Pain

Most LASIK patients describe a certain level of discomfort during and after laser vision surgery.  The most common sensations are light sensitivity, burning, or ripping.  Some patients say they barely notice these symptoms while others find them to be quite bothersome.  Symptoms can vary a great deal between what LASIK procedures and technique was used.  This minor pain and overall discomfort should dissipate in about two to four hours after the surgery.

Redness

Redness is a normal side effect of laser vision surgery and recovery.  Some patients experience dark red spots in the whites of their eyes for a couple of days after their surgery.  These spots are very similar to bruising and can take weeks to completely disappear.

Dry Eyes

One of the most common symptoms after LASIK is dry eyes.  More than fifty percent of patients express their need for eye drops after surgery.  Surgeons will recommend you purchase eye drops before the surgery in addition to the prescription eye drops that are prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation.

After the procedure you will be required to meet with your surgeon the next day for a post-operative appointment.  During this appointment you will have your vision checked and the ophthalmologist will check to make sure that your corneas are healing.  This is the time to address any symptoms you are experiencing with your doctor.  You will have several appointments throughout the healing process to verify that they process is occurring properly.  The intervals for these appointments will be one month, three months, and six months.  At the sixth month visit your eyes should be completely healed and your vision stabilized.

After surgery, to avoid complications, there are a number of activities that should be avoided including from wearing make-up to avoiding strenuous activities.  It is also important to avoid getting soap and water in your eye and you should avoid swimming or any activity in which you submerse your head in water.   Computer use should also be avoided or used cautiously.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to suit your lifestyle and visual needs.  As a leader in laser vision correction and cataract surgery, our goal is to help you achieve the best vision possible without glasses or contact lenses.  More information can be found online at https://michiganlasik.com.

 

 

Michigan Lasik

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Improving the Water Quality in Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are a number of reasons that the water in your home could be discolored or taste funny.  Many of the causes of peculiar tasting, smelly, ill colored water comes from where the water is coming from on your property or the city.  There are steps that homeowners can take to improve the quality of drinking water no matter the source of the water.  From city water to well water Reynolds Water Conditioning company has a solution for your water.

City Water

When your water comes from a city source you can almost guarantee that any problems occurring with your water are derived from your property.  Some areas in the state of Michigan however are an exception to this such as Flint.  The municipal water source in Flint is contaminated with lead.  In this situation the problem with the water does not come directly from the property and therefore is difficult for you to treat within your home.

One of the things that you can do if you have issues with your city water is to evaluate the pipes in your home.  If there are changes that you can notice within the water such as color, taste, and changes to the water pressure this almost certainly means that there is an issue in your pipes.  Corrosion is known to cause partial blockages decreasing water pressure and adding a presence of ill tasting and smelling elements to the water supply.  If interior pipes are not found to be the source of your issue, then it is a good idea to check the exterior pipes of your home to check for leaks.  In no case do we recommend tackling issues with your plumbing alone.  It is always best to work with a professional.

Well Water

The process of determining where the issues lie within your well water is much simpler than it often is with city water.  The first step professionals will take is to test your homes water to determine what contaminants are present.  If the water is clear, then further investigation will need to be done with the infrastructure.  However, more often than not the problem will be a chemical imbalance in the water.  If the water balance is correct the first places to check are with the well pump and casing.   Leaks and improper seals can lead to contaminated water and sediment.

Water Filtration

Whether you have city or well water, water filtration systems can be installed to remove pollutants from your homes water and make your water taste better.  Water filtration units can be installed as point of use or point of entry.  The professionals at Reynolds can help you determine what type of system will work the best for the water quality in your home.

Whole-House Water Filters

A whole house water filtration system is in place to filter all of the water that is used within your home.  This includes the water you shower with, the water that flows through your shower, all of the water that exists a faucet is filtered when a whole house water filter is installed.  Water quality professionals install whole-house filters at the main water supply.

Point-of Entry Filters

When your water is on point most of the time but occasionally has an odor, weird color, or taste a point of entry water filter system installed on the kitchens water supply can improve the quality of the water you use for drinking and cooking.

Reverse Osmosis Systems

RO systems work to improve the quality of your water by passing it through multiple systems that work to eliminate bacteria, sediment, and other pollutants within the water.  This leaves the natural minerals in water and oxygen behind leaving great tasting water.  Reverse osmosis water systems require users to replace filters on a regular basis to keep the water quality at peak levels.

The experts at Reynolds Water Conditioning have a solution to your homes unique water quality needs including: arsenic, bacteria, chlorine, rotten egg smell, fluoride, hard water, iron, lead, acid, tannins, radon, and more.  More information on our water treatment solutions including water softeners and conditioners, water filtration and purification, reverse osmosis drinking water, and iron & odor removal can be found online at https://reynoldswater.com.

Reynolds Water

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