Home Service Simplified

Posted by Frank under Homeowner, ServiceLive News

ServiceLive.com is the first online marketplace for home repair, maintenance and improvements. It is an online auction/name-your-price Web site you can use to get a wide variety of services done around your home.

Looking to have a flat panel TV installed in your home, or you’re ready to hire help for that tough flooring or painting project? From simple repairs and installations at home ServiceLive SIMPLE provides the fast, easy access to service professionals you need.

Hire service professionals on your terms, at your price, and on your schedule. ServiceLive makes it easy to find the pre-screened service provider you need to tackle your tough jobs. Name your price, let service providers compete for your business, and release payment only when you’re satisfied, and even rate the work. -it’s that simple.

For a limited time we are waiving the posting fee through September 30th 2008!

Create an account today!. Our online platform is easy as 1 - 2 - 3!

To learn more about creating a service order click here.

Tags: Home Repair, homeowners, Installation, servicelive, services

How to Prevent Costly Home Repairs

Posted by Frank under Homeowner, Tips

While major plumbing problems are best left to professional plumbers, there are several precautions homeowners can take to prevent costly repairs. We are in the summer season, but be prepared for the winter.

• Disconnect outside water hoses. Water left in the hoses can freeze and expand, causing faucets and connecting pipes inside your home to break.

• When pipes freeze, water pressure builds causing cracks - no matter if the pipe is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a tiny crack can unleash more than 250 gallons of water in a single day.

• If your home has interior shut-off valves leading to outside faucets, close them and drain water from lines.

• Cover outside faucets using a faucet insulation kit available at home centers.

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas, such as garages or crawl spaces, with heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables.

• Seal door and window leaks to reduce cold air drafts.

• Your water heater works harder during cold weather. Flush it out and remove sediment buildup, which causes corrosion, shortens its life span and reduces heating efficiency. Drain several gallons from the faucet near the bottom of the tank through a hose directed into a nearby drain.

• Carefully test the water heater’s pressure relief valve (water is very hot) by lifting up on the lever and letting it snap back. The valve should allow a burst of hot water into the drainpipe. If not, call a professional to have a new valve installed.

• Set the water heater’s thermostat at 120°F for optimum performance.

• Clear leaves and debris from downspouts to ensure easy drainage when water freezes and thaws.

• Inspect and clean sump pump and pit. Pumps exposed to extreme cold can freeze, preventing the pump from operating.

• When leaving home for extended periods, shut off the main water valve and drain the system by opening faucets at the highest and lowest points of the house. Keep the heat on and set no lower than 58 degrees.

By following these tips, you can save in costly repairs and reduce your utility costs. It’s always best to consult with a professional if you’re not comfortable with following the tips above. If you’re a homeowner you can create a Simple Buyer account with ServiceLive and have a qualified Plumber perform an inspection before the winter arrives.

Tags: homeowners, plumbers, plumbing, repairs, servicelive, Tips