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Ludington daiLy newS/SPRing HoMe CaRe CaR CaRe | Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016
Four reasons for a check engine light (MS) — Vehicles rely on many components working harmoniously to function at optimal capacity. Any number of systems can go wrong, and often the first indication that something has gone awry is an illuminated dashboard signal. One such signal is the “check engine” light. Many drivers have little idea what to do when this indicator lights up, and this light can cause some anxiety. According to Consumer Reports, a check engine light turning on does not usually require immediate action. However, it does mean that you should make an appointment to have the vehicle inspected for po-
Loose gas cap
the light may indicate something minor... or something more serious like a misfiring engine. tential problems. Check engine lights are part of a car’s onboard diagnostics. The light turning on may indicate something minor, such as a loose fuel cap, or some-
thing more serious like a misfiring engine. When the light turns on, drivers wondering why may want to see if the answer is related to one of the following issues.
Compromised data can cause a decrease in fuel efficiency. Some do-ityourselfers can replace an oxygen sensor on their own, but those who can’t should have the issue addressed immediately by a professional.
Fuel vapors can leak out and air can get in when the fuel cap isn’t secured correctly. This can compromise the fuel system and make the check engine light come on. Take off the cap and then re- Too much speed or load seal it to see if that alleviates the problem. Towing a trailer or anCracked caps will need to other heavy item may put be replaced. strain on the vehicle and cause the light to come on because of loss of power. Dirty oxygen sensor Lightening the load and A faulty or clogged sen- reducing speed can help sor may not provide the fix the problem. Always right information about consult with the owner’s unburned oxygen from manual to determine the the vehicle’s exhaust. towing capacity of your This sensor monitors vehicle. how much fuel is burned.
Short or faulty code Computers aren’t always fool-proof, and sometimes an electrical short or another similar problem can cause a light to come on. Bring the vehicle to an automotive supply store. Such stores typically have diagnostics tools that can be hooked into the car’s computer and provide a more detailed understanding of what is triggering the check engine indicator. In many cases, a steady check engine light is not a serious concern. However, when such a light comes on, drivers should try to find out why as soon as possible.
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Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016 | Ludington daiLy newS/SPRing HoMe CaRe CaR CaRe
Check your home for termite infestation, swarms Termite swarms are often the first visible evidence that termites are a problem in and around a home. There are several different types of subterranean termite species. Many begin to take flight when weather conditions are favorable, such as in the spring and summer. Pest management company Orkin notes that the presence of a swarm of termites around a home suggests a strong likelihood that there is a well-established colony of termites living in or near the home. According to The Terminix International Company, over her lifetime, a termite queen can lay one million eggs, producing new swarms each year. It is essential that homeowners recognize when termites are a problem in a home, as they can cause
a termite queen can lay one million eggs, producing new swarms each year. considerable damage. In the United States alone, subterranean, drywood and dampwood termites cause more than $5 billion in damage annually and can cost homeowners an average of $8,000 in treatment and damage repairs, says Terminix. Homeowners who suspect they have a termite
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problem should call a professional exterminator. Flying ants can be mistaken for termites and tend to swarm as well. Termites have two pairs of wings of equal length, while ants have wings of different lengths. It may require a trained expert to recognize these differences.
There are other indications that termites may be in a home or nearby. • Termites shed their wings as they enter a new home. If wings are found around windows, vents, doors or pipes coming into a home, it may mean termites have entered. • Look for muddy, flattened tubes about the width of a drinking straw. Termites travel through these tubes and the tubes help protect the termites from predators and temperature extremes. • Dark areas or bubbling in flooring can indicate termites are feeding below. • Termites eat wood from the inside out, so any damage may not be visible. Tap suspect wood and listen for a hollow sound. • Look for and mark areas where termites are
seen entering or exiting a house. Then direct the exterminator to these areas. Termites can cause substantial damage to a home,
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Ludington daily newS/SPRING HOME CARE CAR CARE | MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016
How to ensure a successful basement remodel (MS) — Americans continue to fuel remodeling spending across the country, driven by upward growth in real estate prices and the rising cost to trade up to a larger home. Basement renovations are expected to be a hot trend in 2016, as buyers look to maximize available living space rather than move. While finishing a basement can be a great alternative to moving there are some challenges homeowners must be aware of when tackling below-grade living spaces. Choosing the right products is vital to the comfort, safety and function of your new living area. Look for products that help to maximize energy efficiency and protect against moisture, fire and noise. Here are the top points to consider to ensure a successful basement renovation.
Waterproof it
cal role in making your basement feel comfortable, while keeping it safe and dry. For the best results, install a rigid board insulation, like Roxul ComfortBoard IS, against the concrete foundation before you stud the wall. The board is mechanically fastened or adhered to the concrete foundation wall, which prevents thermal bridging through the studs, providing better thermal performance. Finish with a moistureresistant and dimensionally stable insulation between the studs, like R14 Comfortbatt, to protect against common basement issues such as mold, mildew and rot.
Choose a functional design Draw out plans, carefully taking into consideration any low ceilings or small windows. Try to incorporate structural features, such as attractive wood beams, into your design. Keep the space as open as possible. Select lighting that provides a bright, airy feel.
Check the interior foundation and floors to make sure there are no existing moisture issues, water damage or mold problems. Address any primary moisture issues before finishing the Soundproof, too space. Examine grading to Soundproofing is the ulensure water runs away timate solution to maxifrom your foundation. mize your basement’s quiet and privacy. Whether your newfound space Insulation is key will function as a home theatre, music room, Insulation plays a criti-
protection is also a vital consideration. Whenever possible, select building check with your municipality to secure the materials with a high fireresistance rating and look right permits and complying with local for products that will not bylaws and building codes off-gas or contribute to toxic smoke in the event home office or playroom, of a fire. Include additionit will benefit from qualal exits in your renovation ity acoustic insulation, Consider fire safety plan and educate yourself like Roxul Safe ‘n’ Sound. Since many basements on your local fire code. Not only is it highly effecBefore you start your are now being renovattive, but it’s also easy to renovation, be sure to ed as income suites, fire install.
Before you start your renovation, be sure to
check with your municipality to secure the right permits and to ensure that you’re complying with local bylaws and building codes. Finishing a basement can be a smart renovation, if done properly, adding to a home’s value, increasing its function and providing greater enjoyment or income potential.
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MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016 | Ludington daily newS/SPRING HOME CARE CAR CARE
Wash your car like a pro to protect its value (MS) — Vehicle owners know maintaining a vehicle can be a lot of work. Taking the time to properly care for a vehicle can prolong its life expectancy and help owners avoid breakdowns and other issues along the way. Regular washing is an aspect of vehicle maintenance that some may classify as a purely cosmetic benefit. Certainly a car wash can keep the vehicle looking its best, but there are other advantages to washing as well. Washing offers preventative maintenance for the car’s paint and can help prevent rust and corrosion resulting from dirt, acid rain and road salt. Rust can compromise hydraulic brake and fuel lines, as well as many moving parts in the chassis and frame. Corrosion of electrical connectors and other parts under the hood can lead to leaks, electrical shorts and a host of additional problems. It’s easy to see how washing the car is more essential than one might have suspected. If you live in an area with a high amount of dust or industry, you may need to wash your car as frequently as once a week. Drivers who live along or near coastal areas may need to wash their vehicles frequently to combat sea salt buildup. Garage-kept vehicles may be able to go longer between washes, but in general washing a vehicle
Use a clean sponge and proper cleaning solution when washing your vehicle. Move the sponge lengthwise along the body panels.
Always use a proper washing soap solution. This will preserve the car’s finish better than other homemade soaps. every two to three weeks is a good rule of thumb. In addition, a good sealant will protect the paint and other trims throughout the year. The following are some other car-wash tips to follow. • Always use a proper washing soap solution.
This will preserve the car’s finish better than other homemade soaps. Avoid using dishwashing liquid, which can strip protective wax coatings. • Be prompt when cleaning off bugs, sap and bird droppings that may stick to the paint and become difficult to re-
move over time. • Wait until a car has cooled down before washing. Heat speeds up the drying of soap and water and can make it more difficult to clean. • Always use a clean, non-abrasive sponge. Resist the urge to move the sponge in circles as you clean. Doing so can create noticeable swirl scratch marks. Instead, move the sponge lengthwise across the body panels and hood. • Keep a separate rins-
ing bucket to clean the sponge or washing mitt so that dirt is not mixed into the clean, sudsy water. • Consumer Reports suggests using a soft squeegee to remove most of the water on the body of the car after washing and rinsing. Blot up any extra water with a chamois. • Wax the car every season to ensure it has maximum protection. In between, apply a liquid spray wax to touch
up spots. Water beading is not an ideal indicator of whether or not the car needs a coat of wax. • Don’t forget to pay attention to the interior. Vacuum the carpets regularly to prevent groundin dirt and routinely clean the upholstery with a product specific to your vehicle’s interior. Protecting a vehicle investment involves keeping the car clean. Know the right ways to help a car or truck look and perform like new.
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Ludington daily newS/SPRING HOME CARE CAR CARE | MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016
Spring cleaning projects you don’t want to forget (MS) — Spring cleaning is an annual tradition in many households. After a winter spent cooped up indoors, spring cleaning can rejuvenate a household and provide a great chance to rid a home of a season’s worth of clutter. Donating old clothes and cleaning out the garage are popular spring cleaning projects, but there are a host of additional tasks homeowners can tackle to freshen up their homes this spring.
Bathrooms Bathrooms also tend to bear the brunt of winter weather, as mold and grime can accumulate throughout a season in which it’s too cold to open bathroom windows to let fresh air in after bathing. Inspect ceilings, tubs, shower stalls, and floors for any signs of mold growth or grime. Mold growth in a home can lead to respiratory problems and exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma, so it’s best to inspect bathrooms for any signs of mold growth throughout winter. If you have let that slip, prioritize such inspections come spring cleaning time.
Floors Simply vacuuming or sweeping the floors might not be enough to banish some of winter’s most uninvited guests. Dust has a way of settling into a home over the course of a typical winter, and it’s easy for a home’s inhabitants to track dirt and debris inside as well. After vacuuming or sweeping floors, go over them with a mop. Doing so can remove any lingering dust, dirt, debris, and allergens the vacuum or broom failed to pick up. Apply wood cleaner and polish to wood floors to make them look even cleaner.
Baseboards Though baseboards might not seem all that dirty, upon closer inspection homeowners might notice substantial accumulations of dirt and dust. Such dirt and dust may not be removed so easily, so homeowners might need to use hot
Furniture
When cleaning homes in the spring, homeowners should not forget to inspect their curtains, which can accumulate dust and dirt over the course of winter.
water and a sponge to re- absorbed substantial move any debris that is amounts of dust, dirt and clinging. debris over the winter. This might be more visCurtains ible near the end of winter when more sunlight Curtains also may have begins to shine through.
Clean the curtains in adherence to the manufacturer instructions before you open windows for the season so any wind that blows in does not spread debris onto nearby fur-
niture. Once the curtains have been washed, opening windows may help them dry more quickly.
It’s easy to overlook furniture when tackling spring cleaning, but dust and dirt can quickly accumulate on couches and chairs over the course of winter. When possible, vacuum furniture to remove any debris that might have accumulated while windows and doors were kept shut, and shampoo any cushions or seat covers that don’t pass the smell test. Spring cleaning encompasses a host of tasks, and homeowners who want a truly clean house should not overlook smaller tasks that can produce big results.
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Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016 | Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016
Simple maintenance tips to keep your ride running strong (MS) — Motor vehicles are sizable investments, so it’s in drivers’ best interests to take every step possible to protect their investments and keep their vehicles running smoothly. While knowledgeable mechanics can be invaluable resources, drivers can take several minor, simple steps to keep their cars running smoothly for years to come.
Weekly visual inspections Few drivers take the time to look at their vehicles once those vehicles lose their new car luster.
But visual inspections can help drivers find problems that, though minor, may impact their vehicles’ performance. For example, a routine examination of vehicle tires can indicate if those tires are properly inflated. Poorly inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency and affect the overall safety of a vehicle. If tires appear flat, check their pressure and inflate them to the levels listed in your owner’s manual.
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that a vehicle needs some maintenance is the sight of fluids beneath the car. If you notice puddles or stains beneath where you normally park your car, your vehicle may be leaking fluids. Note the color and consistency of the fluid and then call your mechanic to determine which fluid is leaking and how to fix the problem.
drivers can take simple steps to keep their cars running smoothly. mendations with regard to changing fluids and replacing filters. Many recent models can now be driven roughly 5,000 miles before they need an oil change, but check your owner’s manual for the guidelines established by your vehicle’s manufacturer, and adhere to that schedule religiously. If you drive an older car, recognize that the vehicle
may benefit from more frequent oil changes and tuneups. In addition, read the manual for additional guidelines, such as how often to replace the air filter, headlight, turn signal and brake lamps, windshield wipers, and other vehicle parts that can wear down over time.
Look under the hood While many drivers feel that the area beneath their vehicles’ hoods is best left to the professionals, you can still lift up the hood every so often to see if there are any
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glaring problems that demand attention. Inspect rubber belts for signs of wear and tear, and know that such belts may need to be replaced every 50,000 miles or even more frequently depending on your driving habits. Lifting the hood is also necessary when checking fluid levels, which you should check periodically and before and after any long trips. Drivers who notice damage when performing simple vehicle maintenance should bring these concerns to the attention of their mechanics as soon as possible.
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Ludington daiLy newS/SPRing HoMe CaRe CaR CaRe | Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016
Call 811 before digging for landscaping and home improvement (BPT) — With the snow melted and the ground thawed, many eager homeowners and landscape professionals across the country will roll up their sleeves and reach for their garden shovels to start projects that require digging this spring. During the transition into “digging season,” Common Ground Alliance (CGA), the association dedicated to protecting underground utilities and the people who dig near them, reminds homeowners and professional diggers that calling 811 is the first step toward protecting you and your com-
munity from the risk of unintentionally damaging an underground line. Every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants a free call to 811. Installing a mailbox or fence, building a deck and landscaping are all examples of digging projects that should only begin a few days after making a call to 811. Calling this number connects you to your local one-call utility notification center. Nearly half of American homeowners say they do not plan to make a free call to 811 before digging, according to data collect-
ed by CGA in late February. Extrapolated to the full population of U.S. homeowners, approximately 38.6 million people will dig this year without first calling 811. A utility line is damaged every six minutes in America because someone decided to dig without making a call to 811 to learn the approximate location of buried utilities in their area. Unintentionally striking one of these lines can result in inconvenient outages for entire neighborhoods, harm to yourself or your neighbors and repair costs. As a result, CGA offers
the following tips to make sure you complete your project safely and without any utility service interruptions, so you don’t become a statistic. Here’s how the 811 process works: 1. One free, simple phone call to 811 makes it easy for your local onecall center to notify all appropriate utility companies of your intent to dig. Call a few days prior to digging to ensure enough time for the approximate location of utility lines to be marked with flags or paint. 2. When you call 811, a representative from your
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local one-call center will ask for the location and description of your digging project. 3. Your local one-call center will notify affected utility companies, which will then send professional locators to the proposed dig site to mark the approximate location of your lines. 4. Only once all lines have been accurately marked, roll up those sleeves and carefully dig around the marked areas. There are nearly 20 million miles of underground utility lines in the United States that your family depends on
for everyday needs including electric, gas, water and sewer, cable TV, high-speed Internet and landline telephone, which equals more than a football field’s length of utilities for every person in the United States. With that much critical infrastructure underground, it’s important to know what’s below and call 811 before digging. TO FIND out more information about 811 or the one-call utility notification center in your area, visit www.call811. com.
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MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016 | MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016
Know the signs your vehicle might need maintenance Failed hose clamps The Car Care Council has developed a service Symptoms interval schedule with Squeaking noise from general guidelines for the regular maintenance of under the hood during passenger cars, mini vans, start-up or operation Coolant leaks pickups and SUVs. What Dashboard light will illufollows is a breakdown of the vehicle systems that minate A/C System may fail require regular mainteEngine overheating nance: Smell of burnt rubber
BELTS AND HOSES
What is it? You car’s belts and hoses are essential to the cooling, air conditioning and charging systems, and the engine. Don’t take these routine replacement intervals for granted because they can break down and leave you stranded. What does it do? The timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft mechanically synchronized to maintain engine timing. Whether serpentine, V-belt or fan belt (the belts on the outside of the engine), they all transmit power from the front of the engine to accessories that need to be driven, such as the air conditioning, the charging system and fans. Radiator and heater hoses carry coolant to and from the engine, radiator and heater core.
BRAKE SYSTEM What is it? Your car’s brake system is its most critical safety system and you should check it immediately if you suspect any problems. A properly operating brake system helps ensure safe vehicle control and operation under a wide variety of conditions.
means expensive rotor or drum replacement. Factors that affect wear include driving habits and quality of brake pads and shoes. Symptoms Car pulls to one side during braking Pulsating brake pedal or steering wheel shake Brake pedal feels “mushy” Unusual noise when you step on the brake pedal Repeatedly need to add brake fluid to the master cylinder Brake fluid sprayed onto outside of wheel Unusual odor or noise
EMISSION SYSTEM What is it? Your car’s emission system keeps the engine running cleanly and efficiently in all sorts of operating conditions. A steady or flashing warning light on your vehicle dashboard indicates a problem that is currently happening and may require immediate attention. Failure to do so can reduce your gas mileage or cause your vehicle to pollute.
What does it do? When you push the brake pedal, the force generates hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder. This pressure flows through the hydraulic lines and hoses to the wheel cylinders and calipers, forcing the shoes against the drums (drum brakes) and the pads against the rotors (disc brakes). The resulting friction slows the vehicle and What does it do? is relative to the amount Your car’s emission sysof force applied at the tem controls the emisbrake pedal. sions, exhaust and pollutTypical Wear and Tear ants (including gasoline Typical Wear and Tear Key items that affect the vapors escaping from the Brakes are a normal replacement interval for fuel tank), using an arwear item for any car and belts and hoses: ray of sensors, computereventually they’re goVehicle age ing to need replacement. ized engine controls and Electrolytic corrosion Avoid letting your brakes the exhaust components. Mileage get to the “metal-to-met- The emission system subOil contamination al” point, which usually stantially reduces harmBelt tension
ful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and, by law, must be maintained in operating condition. Typical Wear and Tear Some factors affecting the emission system include: Driving and atmospheric conditions Mileage Vehicle age Type of spark plug electrode material Poor vehicle maintenance Poor quality fuel Damaged or worn sensors Dry-rotted or cracked vacuum hoses
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM What is it? The engine cooling system affects your car’s overall dependability and engine longevity. Cooling systems have advanced over the years with new coolant formulations and new radiator designs and materials. If you suspect a problem with your cooling system, you should check
it immediately.
Your car’s exhaust system has come a long way from the old days of exhaust pipes and mufflers. Today, the exhaust system is safety and emissions control rolled into one. Have your car’s exhaust system inspected regularly and check it immediately if you suspect any problems.
What does it do? The key parts of the cooling system remove heat from the engine and automatic transmission and dissipate heat to the air outside. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine. The coolant absorbs heat and returns it to the radiator where heat is dissipated. What does it do? The thermostat regulates The exhaust system the coolant temperature routes dangerous exhaust to keep it consistent for gas from the engine out efficient engine operation. and away from the car to keep from affecting the Typical Wear and Tear occupants. Next, the exFactors that affect the haust system reduces replacement of cooling exhaust noise from the system parts include: engine. The catalytic conDriving habits verter reduces the level of Operating conditions harmful pollutants in the Type of vehicle exhaust. The oxygen senType of coolant sors mounted in the exFrequency of regular haust system monitor the maintenance such as cool- level of oxygen in the exant changes haust gases to maintain efficient engine operation Symptoms and to monitor the conOverheating verter’s operation. Sweet smell Typical Wear and Tear Leaks Get regular exhaust sysRepeatedly need to add tem checks. fluid Factors that can affect
EXHAUST SYSTEM What is it?
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Ludington daily newS/SPRING HOME CARE CAR CARE | MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2016
Know the signs your vehicle might need maintenance, continued From previous page
replacement requirements include: Driving habits (short trips take their toll on exhaust system life) Road conditions (salt, road spray, bumps) Vehicle type Age of system parts Symptoms Loud noise Rattling noise when starting, accelerating or braking Drowsiness while driving Rotten eggs smell
injectors. The air filter traps dirt particles, which can cause damage to engine cylinders, walls, pistons and piston rings. The air filter also plays a role in keeping contaminants off the airflow sensor (in fuel-injected cars). The cabin filter helps trap pollen, bacteria and dust that may find their way into a car’s ventilation system.
mance with the lowest LIGHTING AND WIPERS emissions. Check a car’s fuel system regularly or What is it? immediately if you smell Lights and wipers play gas or suspect a problem. a major role in safe driving – the chances for acWhat does it do? cidents increase if you The fuel system trans- can’t see or be seen. Some fers fuel from the fuel states have laws that retank and passes it through quire the headlights to be a fuel filter for straining on with the wipers. If you before it arrives at the in- detect problems with your jectors. A pressure regula- car’s lights or wipers, have tor controls fuel pressure them checked out at once. to ensure good engine performance under a variety What does it do? of speed and load condiThe wiper system keeps tions. Fuel injectors, when excessive water, snow or activated, spray a metered dirt from building up on amount of fuel into the the windshield and reengine. Some vehicles use moves them to maintain a return line system to re- clear visibility through turn unused fuel back to the windshield. The lightthe tank. ing system provides night-
Typical Wear and Tear Filters are normal wear items that require regular checks and replacement. Factors that affect replacement intervals include: Mileage Driving habits FILTERS AND FLUIDS Driving and road conditions What is it? Type of filter Your car’s filters are imVehicle type Typical Wear and Tear portant to the longevity of Intervals for fuel system your car and interior comSymptoms maintenance may be influfort. Maximize your car inPoor gas mileage enced by: vestment by replacing filHesitation while accelerFuel quality ters regularly. ating Vehicle age Musty odor in the cabin Mileage/time What does it do? Operating conditions The oil filter traps conMaintenance history FUEL SYSTEM taminants, allowing the oil to flow through the enWhat is it? Symptoms gine unrestricted. The fuel A car’s fuel system Poor fuel economy filter separates harmful works with the rest of the Vehicle won’t start contaminants that may engine control system to “Check Engine” light is cause problems with cardeliver the best perforilluminated buretors or intricate fuel
time visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior. Typical Wear and Tear Lights and wipers are normal wear items that require periodic replacement. Factors affecting replacement intervals include: Operating conditions (winter conditions are
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used during start-up and to support electrical loads when the engine is running. An ignition module turns the low-voltage supply to the ignition coil on and off, and the coil produces the high voltage for the ignition system. This creates a spark at the spark plugs and igSymptoms Chattering or streaking nites the air/fuel mixture in the engine. A belt transwiper mits power from the front Rapid signal blinking of the engine to the alterDimming lights nator’s pulley, along with STARTING, CHARGING AND other accessories. tough on wiper blades) Frequency of use Material and type of lights and wipers Sunny weather – wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in desert states
BATTERIES
What is it? Your car’s starting and charging systems, and the battery, help ensure dependable vehicle operation whenever you drive your car and in all sorts of driving conditions. Make sure to check these systems regularly.
Typical Wear and Tear Habits such as frequent engine on/off cycles will cause more wear on the starter than a simple trip back and forth to work. Other factors include: Driving and weather conditions Mileage Vehicle age Excessive electrical draws like in-vehicle entertainment systems
What does it do? The battery stores electrical energy and the startSymptoms er converts that energy Headlights and interior into mechanical force to lights dim turn the engine for start“Check Engine” and/or ing. The alternator probattery light may come on duces electric current to Accessories fail to operreplace what the starter ate
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Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016 | Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016
Consider hiring a pro to cut, trim your trees The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) conducted an analysis of 37 civilian tree care-related accidents reported by the media in 2014. TCIA is a trade association that advances the tree care industry and discourages homeowners from taking unnecessary risks caring for their trees. While these numbers are not representative of all tree care accidents involving non-professionals, they provide insight into the types of hazards homeowners are likely to encounter while attempting tree work. The findings were grim: Twenty-three of the accidents (60 percent) were
fatal. “Homeowners may not realize how dangerous tree work can be, and how much they’re risking by taking the ‘do-it-yourself’ approach,” says Peter Gerstenberger, senior advisor for safety, standards and compliance for TCIA. “Lack of training, equipment, or situational awareness undoubtedly contributed to these incidents, which could have been avoided by hiring a professional tree care company.” The median age of the victim was 62, and the oldest victim was 76. The youngest reported victim was a 3-year-old toddler who tragically walked into the path of a tree his fa-
ther was felling and was struck and killed. Three of the 37 victims, including the 3-year-old, were uninvolved bystanders. Most homeowners were struck by a tree while attempting to fell it, or were hit by limbs, wires, or chain saws. Others fell or were electrocuted. Occasionally, these incident are high-profile; Greg Norman, the pro golfer, is the lone “struck by chain saw” statistic. He claimed to be lucky to still have his left hand after a chain saw accident. The famed Australian was trimming a sea grape tree at his home near Jupiter Island, Florida, when the accident occurred.
DNR: prevent spread of oak wilt disease April 15 marks the beginning of the yearly window when oak wilt can be transmitted from diseased to healthy red oak trees. According to Roger Mech, Michigan Department of Natural Resources forest health specialist, oak wilt is a serious disease of oak trees. It mainly affects red oaks, including northern
red oak, black oak and pin oak. Red oaks often die within a few weeks after becoming infected. White oaks are more resistant, so the disease progresses more slowly. “The normal time-tested advice is to prevent oak wilt by not pruning or otherwise ‘injuring’ oaks from April 15 to July 15,”
Mech said. Oak wilt occurs spreads this time of year as beetles move spores from fungal fruiting structures on the trees killed last year by oak wilt to wounds on healthy oaks. As warmer weather melts away snow and ice, the beetles that move oak wilt become active.
From start to finish we make sure every detail is everything you want. 3 Shingles or the Whole Roof! Insulation, Cellulose or Fiberglass Broken Glass or the Entire Window! Home Energy Audits Lead Safe Certified Mobile Home Repair Specialist Serving All of West Michigan Discount for Veterans
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Norman was part of another dominant group in these statistics: the victims who were working alone at the time of the accident. In two-thirds of all cases where it could be determined, the victims undertook hazardous tree work with nobody to spot them, nobody to assist them, and nobody to advise STEvE BEGNOCHE | daiLy newS FiLe them when it might have been prudent to stop and The Tree Care Industry Association suggests you consider hiring seek out an expert. a tree care professional to safely cut or trim trees.
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843-4455
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Ludington daiLy newS/SPRing HoMe CaRe CaR CaRe | Monday, aPRiL 18, 2016
Lawn tips to save you money from MSU Extension pings to the lawn could reduce nitrogen requirements by up to 25 percent. That’s free fertilizer, so don’t waste it. Clippings are about 80 percent water and don’t contribute to the thatch layer unless you’re leaving clippings in piles on the lawn. Returning clippings is free fertilizer, and free is the best way to save some cash.
BY KEvIN FRANK MiCHigan State uniVeRSity eXtenSion, dePaRtMent oF PLant, SoiL and MiCRoBiaL SCienCeS
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “Do more with less,” and I’m also fairly confident no one has ever told you to “do less with more.” When it comes to managing a home lawn, there are certainly some homeowners that would like a nice lawn by doing less with less – less work with less cash. Here are five tips Michigan State University Extension suggests for maintaining a healthy lawn while doing less and saving some cash.
Tip 1: Mow high Mow high and follow the one-third rule of cutting only one-third of the top growth at any one mowing. If you set your mower to a cutting height of 3 inches and follow the one-third rule, you would not need to mow until the turf reaches 4.5 inches in height. The growth between mowing is 1.5 inches. If you mow at 2 inches and follow the one-third rule, you’d only have 1 inch of growth between mowings. Mowing higher is healthier for the turf and should result in fewer mowings, which means less gas, less time and less cash out of your pocket.
Tip 3: Mower checkups
How often do you change the oil in your car? Do you know where the oil goes in your mower? Tun-
Tip 5: ing up your mower will help improve engine and mower efficiency. Invest a little in a mower tune up before the grass really starts growing and you could save a lot in the long run on repairs or even having to buy a new mower.
ers really do a great job Select slow release of chopping up the turfgrass clippings, but even fertilizers if you don’t have a mulchSelect a fertilizer with ing blade don’t let that slow release nitrogen to stop you from returning extend the length of feedclippings. Turfgrass cliping to the turf. Slow repings typically contain lease fertilizers will proabout 4 percent nitrogen, vide steady turf growth 0.5 percent phosphorus as opposed to fast reTip 3: and 2 percent potassium. lease sources, such as Sharpen mower blades Several researchers have urea, that result in growth suggested that continualsurges that cause you to Have you ever had ly recycling turfgrass clipyour mower start to “bog down?” One way to imURKA AUTO CENTER IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE prove mower efficiency, THE ARRIVAL OF THE NEWEST STATE OF THE ART turfgrass appearance and ALIGNMENT MACHINE IN WEST MICHIGAN health is to sharpen mower blades. I try to sharp(The WA484-CM by Hunter) en my blades at least two times a year to keep the mower humming and turf at its best. Dull mower blades result in fraying and tearing of the With any Lube, leaf blades that result in Oil, Filter and a poor aesthetic look and Tire Rotation increased water loss from at regular price. the turf. Sharper blades Call Rich or Doug for Appointment will give you better looking and performing turf OFFER VALID UNTIL 05/15/16 and once again could save you some gas and cash. ASE State Certified Technician David Bly will be performing alignments
GET A FREE ALIGNMENT CHECK
Tip 4: Return clippings Mulching blade mow-
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increase mowing frequency. Buying slow release fertilizers will not result in instant cash savings at the register – you’ll have to think longer term on this tip. Slow release fertilizers feed the turf over a longer period of time than fast release fertilizers, so one application will feed the turf longer than the cheaper fast release bag.
Tip 6: Rake lightly To facilitate quicker regrowth, lightly rake the turf with a leaf rake, not a garden rake. Raking will remove some of the dead, blighted leaf blades and facilitate turfgrass recovery from snow mold. However, even if you decide you’d rather watch the basketball tournament
than rake the lawn, the turfgrass will recover as temperatures warm.
Tip 7: Ground temperatures and crabgrass preemergence applications With respect to making crabgrass pre-emergence applications to turfgrass, it’s still too early. Summer annual grasses such as crabgrass require proper soil temperature and moisture to germinate and establish. Eighty percent of germination will occur when the 0- to 2-inch depth soil temperature is consistently reaching 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Currently at the MSU Hancock Turfgrass Research Center, the 2-inch soil depth temperature is 32 F.
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