Livingston Reporting - page 267

Understanding Panel Switches and Panel Boards

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Electrical components are a part of our everyday lives in both residential and commercial use.  The problem is that most of us don’t understand the basic concepts that are used within the industry.  This leads to inefficiency and delay when an electrical system fails and is in need of repair.  Having a basic understanding of the various electrical components that are used in everyday life will help in cases of a system failure.  The more you know the easier it will be to help come to a resolution to get the system restored.

One component that is often ignored is the panel board even though they are used throughout in providing electricity in residential, commercial and industrial facilities.  Without the panel board, often referred to as the power distribution panel, electrical power could not safely be distributed through the facility be it your home or business.

In residential use the power we receive is purchased from a local utility company and is processed into our homes through a meter device located on the outside of our homes.  The power enters the system and is distributed from there to various circuit systems throughout the home.  This is how electrical power is distributed to various parts of the house to power electrical outlets, lights and appliances that are located throughout the house.

In commercial and industrial settings the power distribution is a bit more complex.  The system is complex and consists of a device to measure power consumption, disconnects, switching devices, conductors and transformers.  The power is then distributed through various switchboards, transformers and panel boards.  A distribution system that is solid and works well is something that doesn’t just happened it is planned out and carefully put together.  The distribution center must be engineered carefully in order to safely and adequately provide electrical services to the current electrical load and possible expansion.

A panel board is a single panel or group of panel units that forms a single unit of bus plugs, switches and over current devices.  They are used to control light, heat or power circuits.  They are often placed in a cabinet or a cutout box and can be mounted in or against a wall.  The panel board is only accessible from the front.

Electrical components such as transformers, switches, breaker panels, panel boards and more are a part of our everyday lives.  They are hidden and as long as we are receiving uninterrupted supplies of electricity we aren’t concerned with how it is occurring.  This is incredibly naive though because we know that any system with multiple components will eventually break down and need to be replaced.  With a little bit of knowledge of electrical components and electrical systems you will be well on your way to understanding what part of the puzzle has broken down.  This will help you narrow down what needs to be replaced within the system to fix the issue.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

 

J & P Electrical Company

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Aluminum Fence Installation With Ease

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In our first installment on aluminum fencing installation we talked a lot about how easy the process can be.  The more detail you put into the planning process the easier the actual labor of installing the fence will be.  Aluminum fence is lightweight and easy to maneuver which helps make it so simple to position.  In our last piece we went into specifics on how detailed planning and patience make putting your fence in a whole lot easier.

The next phase to in the installation process after you have properly planned is the process of preparing the landscape for the new fence.  You must first mark the placement of the aluminum fence.  This can easily be done by hammering in metal stakes and stringing a line between them.  Make the line as taut as possible.  From here marking the location for the posts is the next step.  Adjust the location of the post holes according to the size of the panel.  Measure twice and cut once is a key element in setting the location of the posts.

The string that is already staked out will help guide you throughout the entire process.  It will provide you with a straight edge reference point.  Stay consistent in the placement of your posts.  None of the posts should touch or push your string as this will push the straight edge in one direction or the other which will mess up the continuity of your fence line.

Dig a few holes at a time; don’t dig them all at once.  The holes should be about six inches wide and between twenty four to forty two inches deep.  Again don’t dig all of the holes at once, dig as you go.  Check to ensure that the posts are positioned plumb and true.  It is important that the post is level as the concrete sets.  If they become unlevel your gate may not function as it should.

The actual panel installation is quick and easy.  Start with attaching one section of fence.  This can be done by sliding the notched horizontal rail of the fence into the punched hole of the post.  A screw through the post into the rail will securely attach the rail to the post.  Continue to level each post and pour concrete into each hole that you dig.  It is critical that you level one post and one panel at a time to complete the entire section before moving on.  To truly secure each post add dirt over the concrete and pack it in tight.

As you move on be sure to check the previous sections.  Add on a section of fence and additional posts while continuing to go back to sections of aluminum fence panels that are in place and make sure they stay level and maintained.  Tweak as you go and adjust as needed.  Not only should you use tools to make sure the fence is in level but also be sure to use your sight and personal judgment to adjust as needed.

If the fence ends on a corner it is important to remember that the horizontal rails of the next panel is notched to fit directly into the post.  Once each post is in place and the fence panels are set into place the post caps need to be snapped into place.  You may need a rubber mallet to place them but will not need screws to keep them in place.  Be gentle if you use a mallet so that you don’t damage the post cap material.

Next you will install the gate.  Make sure it is attached and latches correctly.  The gate may take a bit of patience to get into place and working correctly.  Make sure the swinging of the gate is in the direction you want it to be.  Install the hinges using screws and level out the gate.  After the cement is dry and only then is it okay to start using the fence.

With the right tools, a lot of patience and solid directions your aluminum fence should be in place, installed and ready for use after ten to twenty hours after you begin putting it in to place.

iFence USA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Marketing Benefits of Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Effective marketing is what sells your product.  From small business to large corporations, millions of dollars is spent on marketing your company’s product to consumers.  One of the most successful ways a company can do this is through their company’s label.  Attaching pieces of your marketing plan directly to your product using shrink sleeve labels is a popular option today.

Shrink sleeves are a popular type of labeling option is because it offers a three hundred and sixty degree space to market your product.  This is three hundred and sixty degrees of space to design, print and place valuable product information.  The benefits that are had with shrink sleeve marketing is part of the reason you see soda bottles, laundry detergent, shampoos and more using this popular technology for labeling.

If you are looking for a label option that will fit over any product no matter the shape or size, shrink sleeves is your best choice.  Literally any shape, even princess shaped bubble bath can be covered using shrink sleeve labels.  Finding a quality manufacturer to create your label is important as well.  You want to make sure that the label when applied fits properly and that quality graphics are used to create the design.  The quality of your label will vary a great deal between vendors so choose wisely.

Another benefit that shrink sleeves offer to both producers and consumers is that it is environmentally friendly.  You will find that often shrink sleeves are partially made from recyclable materials and are recyclable themselves.

The color of the container is not important with shrink sleeves.  Whether you choose to use a colored bottle and a clear shrink sleeve or a clear bottle and colored shrink sleeve the contents of the product will be visible.

If your company or brand offers contests or likes to give away free samples with their products shrink sleeves are a widely used option.  The material used in shrink sleeves make it easy for the label to be tore off and turned in for a prize or discount.  Free samples are easily enclosed within the packaging because of the flexibility and stretch of the materials used.

One of the best benefits for producers and consumers is the cost savings.  It allows producers to offer their products at a lower cost, saving consumers money, while maintaining the level of profits needed to continue offering a successful product line.  Shrink sleeves have so many benefits over other options in labeling.  They offer protection, cost savings and a lot of room to market the benefits of your company’s products.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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Tips To Help You Hire An Experienced Roofing Contractor

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A professional roofing contractor is the individual you need to call when looking for advice on your home’s roof. In many situations it is advisable that homeowners don’t think about doing roof repairs, roofing maintenance or new roof installation on their own. Doing work on the roof can put the owners of the home in an unsafe predicament. Experts in roofing have the expertise, the tools and everything to make the job safe and predictable.

As you consider a roofing contractor it is wise to take into account all of the services that they can provide. Consider asking if they can be hired for the installation of gutters, added insulation, waterproofing, chimney stacks and other roof maintenance when repairing your roof or putting a new roof on your home.

As you are looking to hire a roofing contractor for your roof repair or new roof installation here are some things to keep in mind. Experience is the number one thing you need to consider. The contractor and company’s experience should be looked at as this is what helps to ensure your job requirements are fulfilled. The more experience in a variety of scenarios that your roofing contractor has the better prepared they will be to handle whatever your roofing situation throws at them.

Next check out their portfolio and see what their work looks like. Call on their referrals and ask questions. Find out what they liked about his work, what they didn’t like, figure out what the role of the homeowner plays in the process and find out if they would hire them again. Having a solid idea of what working with this individual roofing contractor is like will help ease your mind as you make decisions on who you hire.

Compare the quotes that you have been given from several contractors that you have contacted. The cost of the work and materials is not the only thing that is important. Check the company’s warranties and workmanship guarantees as this also will help play a role in deciding upon a roofing company to work with. If you are undecided between two individuals these things will come into play. If the cost is equivalent, the workmanship similar and your feel for working with both is the same then a deciding factor can be based on what they offer to clients after the roof is installed. A roofing contractor that stands behind his craftsmanship and the materials he works with is one that you can trust to provide you with quality roof repairs or a perfectly installed new roof.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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The Many Benefits Of Shopping Online For Jewelry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Shopping online has so many benefits.  People are buying everything from furniture to toilet paper online.  With the convenience of shopping from your home it is possible to make more significant purchases such as jewelry including wedding and engagement bands.  When you are looking to buying jewelry online there are a few basic guideline to live by to make sure you are getting exactly what you are paying for.

When you are shopping for jewelry online the process can not only be safe but completely worthwhile as well as long as you take some precautions before making the purchase.  Before you buy the piece compare items between online locations.  You will be sure to get the best price and can work with a trusted jeweler.  Call the number on the website and talk with the owner before you purchase a piece if you want to.  Calling the jeweler is another way to ensure you are buying from someone who will be there to answer your questions should they arise.

Tips For Buying Jewelry Online

1.       Understand the Companies Return Policy

Shopping online requires a larger amount of responsibility on the buyers end. Once you have located a piece of jewelry you like it is important to look into the jewelers return policy.  It is important that you only purchase jewelry from a store that offers at least a thirty day, money back guarantee for returning pieces that were purchased online.  Remember that pieces that have been altered in any manner, sizing, engraving or what not may have special restrictions.  Make sure to read the fine print or call the customer service number to get clarification.

2.       How Available Is The Company

The company should be completely transparent.  You should be able to locate a phone number, address and email address on the website easily.  Look not only for a defined contact page but also an about us page.  Find out who the company is that you are buying from before you make a purchase.  Clearly see how the company defines doing business.  Take a look at the company’s blog pages and social media pages.  If you can’t find out a lot of information without having to dig deeply it is probably not the most trustworthy place to purchase jewelry from.

3.       Check The Websites Security

Be sure the company that you are working with is secure when it comes to handling your credit card information.  Ask if you are unsure if the company is PCI complaint, which means the website’s server and internal networks are scanned regularly for vulnerabilities.  This is a large indicator of how they ultimately run their entire business.

4.       Purchase With A Credit Card That Backs Your Purchases

When you are buying anything online it is important to make sure that you make your purchase with a credit card that will back your purchases.  Many credit card companies now a days will offer you protection against purchase you make with the credit card if they prove to not be as described or for other reasons that the product does not live up to your expectations.

Shopping online is fun, easy and convenient.  Take your time to full research the company and jewelry products you purchase shopping online.  This will guarantee a successful purchase each and every time you shop online.

DaRoche Jewelers is on online jewelry company with a local feel.  You will find a variety of options in jewelry, including custom diamond solitaire engagement rings, online at http://www.darochejewelers.com/.

DaRoche Jewelers

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Leaving Computer Repairs To The Professionals

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

After repairing hundreds of computers it is evident that the most common computer issues arise when clueless computer users try to navigate fixing their computer issues on their own.  Many people don’t realize how delicate computer systems are.   When doing repairs on your computer you are basically performing surgery.  Would you ever try to perform surgery on one of your children or pets?  Probably not, right?  The same should be true when it comes to repairing your pc.  Allowing a professional computer technician to work on your computer allows you to be confident that the repairs will be completed correctly.  You also don’t have to worry about other issues occurring from the repairs that are completed.

Here are some tips to keep your computer in tip top shape.

1)      General computer maintenance and yearly tune ups on your system help to prevent major complications and computer repairs later on.  Taking proper care of your machine will help to keep your computer running longer and faster.  Don’t download extra tool bars or allow random pop ups to download software to your computer.  All that does is bog your computer down and possibly infect your system with malware.

2)      It’s called a lap top but that doesn’t mean it should be set on your lap while you are using it.  Using your laptop on a comforter or other cushy surface will restrict air circulation and cause the computer to overheat.  Use the nubs on the base of the computer to place the laptop on a hard surface.  You can purchase special that have a cushy base with a hard top to use especially for when you want to use your lap top in bed.

3)      Another thing that many lap top users do is put their laptop into the carrying case before the computer has completely shut down.  This is hard on your computers hard drive and memory.  Wait until the computer has shut down completely before moving it about and placing it in a bag.

4)      Laptops work best if they are not left plugged in at all times.  Leaving a laptop plugged in at all times diminishes the life of the battery and does not allow it to function as it is intended.  Try taking your computer off the charger at least two to three times a week and use the battery as the only source of power.  This will ensure the computer is being worked in the manner it was intended to and will increase the longevity of the battery life and performance of the system.

5)      Dust is another frequent issue with computers.  This is something that can easily be avoided with yearly tune ups.  If you see that your system is getting a bit bogged down with dirt and dust take it in and have the system tuned up.  Never try to blow the dust out on your own at home.  This can lead to dust clogging up areas that are important within the computer system.

Computer repairs are meant to be accomplished by computer technicians just as surgery is to be performed by surgeons.  Be sure to really understand and know what you are doing before you attempt any computer repairs at home and realize that you are probably causing yourself a bigger headache for the technician who has to fix your repairs later on.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

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Make A Fabulous First Impression With Your Products Label

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The first contact your customer has with your brand is the product label.  Their very first impression of your brand and product will come from what is designed and written on the label.  Your label is the face of your product and triggers loyalty to your brand.  When faced with the myriad of competitors your label will trigger their loyalty, reminding them of their previous purchase and the enjoyment that came with it.

Each person that buys your product will have an interaction with your label.  Some products are filled with information while others are detailed works of art and others practically disappear.  Your label will depend on the industry you’re are, your product and the packaging of the product.  Labels remain important to marketers as they are the visual and physical link between your product and consumers.

As a label design is being considered it is crucial that marketers take into consideration that fifty three percent of super market purchases are made based on consumer impulses.  Your label acts as your product salesperson.  The label shares information on the contents of the package; it tells consumers exactly what they are getting for spending their hard earned money on your product.

Every type of label available offers something unique to your product.  Shrink sleeves for instance are super cost effective.  Shrink sleeves are often used in industries where colored bottles were popular.  Colored bottles are costly and drive the expense of your product upward.  What is being done is that clear bottles are being used which are less expensive and then wrapped with colored shrink sleeve labels to give the appearance of a colored bottle.  You achieve the same look without the added cost of the colored containers.

Another benefit of with shrink sleeve labeling is that is provides tamper proof protection for your product.  This takes away the extra expense that comes along with providing neckbands along with a product label.  Shrink sleeves do both jobs. The shrink sleeve label also protects your product against any damage that can occur during shipping.  The wrap itself protects the product against damage and is resistant to sweat and moisture that can occur throughout the shipping process.

Shrink sleeves are one label option.  They are incredibly popular to marketers for the many benefits that they provide over more traditional labeling options.  Your product will always look sleek, high end and have a uniform appearance with the use of shrink sleeve labels.

Shrink sleeve labels offer three hundred and sixty degrees of room to design on.  This is a marketers dream.  There is plenty of room for both artistic expression and important product information.  When designing your label be sure to consider shrink sleeves to maximize your products shelf impact.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

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Understanding Fuses Within Electrical Components

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is a lot to learn about the various electrical components that are used throughout residential and commercial buildings.  Many older homes and businesses use wiring and electrical systems that require the use of fuses.  The one thing to remember when it comes to fuse systems is that you never want to use a fuse that has an amperage rating that is higher than what is specified for the system.  To test fuse continuity you will want to use a multi tester.  Take the multi tester and press one end to the center contact while the other one is pressed to the screw shell.

It is important to understand the variety of fuses available and to be able to identify them in case you ever need to replace one.  Fuses are used in automobiles, appliances, circuit breakers and a variety of other electrical components around both residential and commercial settings.

The most common type of fuse is a low voltage fuse.  You will see low voltage fuses used in many electronic appliances and entertainment gadgets.  This type of fuse is available in ratings up to twenty amperes.  A fuse of this type can signal a short circuit in the wiring system or a system overload.

Standard plug fuses are the type of fuses used most often in service panels.  Most often standard plug fuses are used to power small appliances and basic lighting fixtures.  You will find standard plug fuses in amperes ratings of fifteen, twenty and thirty.  This is dependent upon the gauge of the wire that is found in the circuit.  As with a low voltage fuse, standard plug fuses are used t signal a short in the system as well as an overloaded circuit.

Another common fuse used in residential service panels is a time delay fuse. Similar to a standard plug fuse, time delay fuses come in amperes with ratings of fifteen, twenty and thirty.  The unique quality of time delay fuses is that they can withstand a small power surge, such as a startup of a motor.  They are the fuses used to signal short circuits, circuits that are overloaded and sustained circuits.

A type-s fuse is used for powering up small light fixtures and small appliances.  There is only a slight difference between type-s fuses and the standard plug fuse is that the type-s fuse can guard against the accidental installation of a fuse that has an amperage rating to high for the circuit.  This type of fuse fits an adapter that screws into a service panel.  The adapter only fits into type-s fuses with matching amperage.

The ferrule type cartridge is used in fuse type service panels.  They are used to power major appliances and are available in ratings up to sixty amperes that suit the gauge of wire in the circuit.  The fuse can withstand a small surge, can signal a circuit that has become overloaded, a short or sustained circuit.

The last type of fuse to discuss is the knife blade cartridge fuse.  This is the type of fuse used when more than sixty amperes are needed to protect the electrical system of homes.  The knife blade cartridge fuse can withstand momentary power surges.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

J & P Electrical Company

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Benefits Of Using A Mortgage Broker

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are so many variables when it comes to getting a mortgage.  Many people make the mistake of going it alone without the help of a mortgage broker.  With so many steps when it comes to applying for and qualifying for a mortgage you will want to make sure that you take any missteps out of the process.  A flawless application process will ensure that you get the home of your dreams with a qualifying mortgage to match.

The first mistake most borrowers make is that they ask too many lenders for mortgages’ resulting in an influx of credit inquires.  Too many credit enquires put your credit file at risk.  A mortgage broker can combat this for applicants by weeding out the lenders who don’t fit into the criteria offered by the borrower.  Your mortgage broker will only apply for those loans that fit with the criteria you qualify under.

Errors in your loan submission will be viewed as fraudulent activity by the lender.  Mortgage brokers can assure that they pull an accurate and up to date credit report for you along with submitting a detailed loan application to lenders to ensure that your loan is processed and all the wrinkles are ironed out before they become issues that you as the lender are aware of.  This process is easier for mortgage brokers as they have built relationships with lenders that you perhaps have not.

Another issue that often arises when searching for a lender on your own is that the appraised value of the home is less than that of the price which was agreed upon.  When this situation arises your broker will fly into action.  In order to resolve this issue your broker will ask if they can re-negotiate the price of the home with the seller’s agent.  If this fails the broker will ask the lender to ask a new company to come in and re-evaluate the value of the home.  If this fails the next option for you is to find a new home that appraises better than the home you originally had an offer on.

In our next installment on mortgages; choosing between finding a mortgage on your own or hiring a broker we will look at other common mistakes made.  There are many mistakes that can be made, simple ones at that, if you choose to forgo a mortgage broker and attempt to obtain a mortgage on your own.

Cross Country Mortgage in Brighton, Michigan provide mortgage services for clients including new home loans, refinancing, reversed mortgages, new purchase home mortgages and home equity loans to the entire Livingston County area including Brighton, Howell and Livingston County. Cross Country Mortgage Brighton, MI at http://brightoncrosscountry.com/.

Brighton Cross Country Mortgage

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Installing An Aluminum Fence With Ease

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There is nothing to stress about when it comes to the installation of aluminum fencing. It is the easiest material in fencing to install for several reasons. Even though aluminum is one of the most durable materials it still remains light weight. This makes maneuvering the fence panels simpler. Digging holes is trouble free as the posts used to install aluminum fencing are smaller both wood and vinyl posts. The panels come preassembled and since they are lightweight it moves the project along at an efficient pace. With a short list of tools your fence installation project should only last between ten to twenty hours overall.

When you begin it is important to consider that the project is not something you should rush through. It is not a process that you should look at as something to get over with. A fence should be installed with patience. Take your time to measure twice and cut once.

After you have called to ensure your fence is meeting local and state regulations it is time to start prepping the work site. Before you begin digging you will want to call the local utility companies to come out and identify where all of the underground utilities are located. Next make sure that you have identified your property lines. If you are uncertain it is important to have the property surveyed. You will be held liable if the fence is installed in the wrong location. You will be responsible for the expensive of moving the fence.

If your alumninum fence is being installed around an in ground swimming pool it is crucial that you meet with the pool installer for assistance. They can also help you to plan the installation of your fence around underground lines and pool equipment. You want the lines for the pool to be accessible without having to uproot your entire fence if repairs are needed. Removing one single fence panel is not the end of the world when looking to repair underground lines whereas an entire fence would be overwhelming. Unpack your fence and layout out the materials where they will be installed. Mark off areas that slope and that will require rackable panels. This should be done before you begin installation to ensure the right pieces are in the proper locations.

In our next installment we will talk more about the actual installation process. Half of the installation process is planning half is doing. When installing aluminum fence panels the more you plan the easier the doing will be.

iFence USA offers a variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying aluminum fences shipped factory-direct fromhttp://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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