//---- Created using Likno Web Modal Windows Builder ver. 2.0.210.1 ----- // Copyright (c) Likno Software 2008-2011 // This code is property of Likno Software and licensed for use in *websites* only. It is *not* licensed for use in distributable implementations (applications or CD-based webs), unless the related license is provided by Likno Software. // Any unauthorized use, reverse-engineering, alteration, transmission, transformation, or copying of any means (electronic or not) is strictly prohibited and will be prosecuted. // *Removal of the present copyright notice is strictly prohibited* // This project has been compiled for (and will work under): boatwright-online.com var $u = 'undefined'; var headID = document.getElementsByTagName("head")[0]; var lwmwName = 'consumertipsLibrary'; var nua=navigator.userAgent,scriptNo=(nua.indexOf('Chrome')>-1)?2:((nua.indexOf('Safari')>-1)?7:(nua.indexOf('Gecko')>-1)?2:((document.layers)?3:((nua.indexOf('Opera')>-1)?4:((nua.indexOf('Mac')>-1)?5:1))));var lwmwmpi=document.location,xt=""; var mpa=lwmwmpi.protocol+"//"+lwmwmpi.host; var lwmwmpi=lwmwmpi.protocol+"//"+lwmwmpi.host+lwmwmpi.pathname; if(scriptNo==1){oBC=document.all.tags("BASE");if(oBC && oBC.length) if(oBC[0].href) lwmwmpi=oBC[0].href;} while (lwmwmpi.search(/\\/)>-1) lwmwmpi=lwmwmpi.replace("\\","/"); lwmwmpi=lwmwmpi.substring(0,lwmwmpi.lastIndexOf("/")+1); var e=document.getElementsByTagName("SCRIPT"); for (var i=0;i-1) {lwmwmpi=lwmwmpi.replace("/./","/");} var consumertipsLibrary,AC,consumertipsLibrary_AC_options,Asbestos,consumertipsLibrary_Asbestos_options,Chinese_Drywall,consumertipsLibrary_Chinese_Drywall_options,Energy,consumertipsLibrary_Energy_options,Furnace,consumertipsLibrary_Furnace_options,Garage_Door_1,consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_1_options,Garage_Door_2,consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_2_options,Garage_Door_3,consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_3_options,Mold_1,consumertipsLibrary_Mold_1_options,Mold_2,consumertipsLibrary_Mold_2_options,Pool,consumertipsLibrary_Pool_options,Radon,consumertipsLibrary_Radon_options,Remodeling,consumertipsLibrary_Remodeling_options,Water_Heaters,consumertipsLibrary_Water_Heaters_options; var LWMWloaded_consumertipsLibrary = false; if (typeof(lQuery) == $u && (typeof(jQuery) == $u || (typeof(jQuery.liknoAccordion) == $u && typeof(jQuery.liknoModal) == $u && typeof(jQuery.liknoTabs) == $u && typeof(jQuery.fn.likno_tooltip) == $u))) { var newScript_jQ = document.createElement('script'); newScript_jQ.type = 'text/javascript'; newScript_jQ.onload = jQloaded; newScript_jQ.onreadystatechange = jQloaded; newScript_jQ.src = lwmwmpi+"jquery.js"; headID.appendChild(newScript_jQ); } else jQloaded(); function jQloaded(){ if (typeof(jQuery) == $u) return; if (typeof(lQuery) == $u) { lQuery = jQuery; if (typeof(_$)!=$u) lQuery.noConflict(); } if (typeof(lQuery.liknoModal) != $u) load_consumertipsLibrary(); else { var newScript_lib = document.createElement('script'); newScript_lib.type = 'text/javascript'; newScript_lib.src = lwmwmpi+"likno-modal-lib.js"; newScript_lib.onload = load_consumertipsLibrary; newScript_lib.onreadystatechange = load_consumertipsLibrary; headID.appendChild(newScript_lib); } }function load_consumertipsLibrary() {if (typeof(lQuery) != 'undefined' && typeof(lQuery.liknoModal) != 'undefined'){if (!LWMWloaded_consumertipsLibrary) {LWMWloaded_consumertipsLibrary = true;lQuery.consumertipsLibrary = lQuery.extend(true, {}, lQuery.liknoModal);lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults = lQuery.extend(true, {}, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {modalClass: 'consumertipsLibrary',overlayId: 'consumertipsLibrary-overlay',containerId: 'consumertipsLibrary-container',zIndex:2000,overlayCss:{backgroundColor:'#425873'},opacity:30,close:{closeClass: 'consumertipsLibrary-close',overlayClose:true,escClose:true,show:true,text:"
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Routine maintenance of your air conditioning system is part of being a sensible and smart homeowner. Unseen problems resulting from deferred maintenance are common and demonstrate why the cost of repairing a neglected system will always exceed that of having kept it up. There are things every homeowner can do to save a lot of money, frustration and sweat in the long run.


Five Easy Steps To Help Prevent Problems

1. Inspect the filters - The first step in maintaining a well-functioning air conditioning system is to inspect the air filters. These should be changed or cleaned at least twice a year. Monthly maintenance is recommended if the system is in constant use or if the air is dusty and dirty.
2. Make sure the machine is properly lubricated - Over time, friction can increase within the machine. Oil the motor and bearings twice a year. Be sure to turn off all electricity to the unit when servicing.
3. Inspect the fan belts - Check fan belts and pulleys for wear and proper tension. Have a professional replace worn parts.
4. Clean the outdoor condensing unit - Foreign objects and dirt can affect the performance of the machine. Brush away or hose off any insects, dirt or other items on the outdoor condensing unit.
5. Clean the drain line - Inspect the drain line to make sure there are not any problems with the termination. If algae are present, wash the affected area with chlorine.
",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_AC_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Asbestos_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:720px;height:715px;font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; border:10px solid #597394;"),header:{show:true,text:"Asbestos",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Asbestos"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Asbestos_options);consumertipsLibrary.Asbestos=Asbestos=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

What is Asbestos? - Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber. The fibers are strong, durable and resistant to heat and fire. Because they are long, thin and flexible, they can even be woven into cloth. Because of these qualities, asbestos fibers have been used in thousands of different products.

How Does It Affect Health? - From studies of people who were exposed to asbestos in factories and shipyards, we know that breathing high levels of asbestos fibers can lead to an increased risk of lung disease, such as:

The risk of getting an asbestos-related lung disease increases with the number of fibers inhaled (the risk is greater if you smoke). Most people exposed to small amounts of asbestos will not develop any related health problems. However, if disturbed, asbestos-containing material may release asbestos fibers into the air where they can then be inhaled into the lungs. The fibers can remain in the lung for a long time, increasing the risk of disease. Asbestos-containing material that crumbles easily if handled, or material that has been sawed, scraped, or sanded into a powder, is more likely to create a health hazard because of the release of the fibers into the air.

Where Can Asbestos Be Found in A Home? - Asbestos has been used in thousands of consumer, industrial, maritime, automotive, scientific and building products. Examples asbestos-containing products used in homes are: Should You Do Anything About Asbestos in Your Home? - The U.S. EPA states that "Usually the best thing is to LEAVE asbestos-containing material that is in good condition ALONE. Generally, material in good condition will not release asbestos fibers into the air. THERE IS NO DANGER unless fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs."

Damaged material is more apt to release asbestos fibers (this is particularly true if it is often disturbed by hitting, rubbing or handling, or if it is exposed to extreme vibration or air flow). If you suspect a material may contain asbestos, don't touch it, but look for signs of wear or damage such as tears, abrasions or water damage. If asbestos-containing material is more than slightly damaged, or if you are going to make changes in your home that might disturb it (such as remodeling), you should contact a qualified asbestos professional.

How Can You Identify Materials With Asbestos? - Unless labeled, you can't tell if a material contains asbestos by looking at it. The material must be microscopically analyzed. If in doubt, treat the material as if it contains asbestos or have it sampled and analyzed by a qualified professional. Taking samples yourself is not recommended because if done incorrectly, sampling can be more hazardous than leaving the material alone.

Qualified Asbestos Professionals - Asbestos consultants can conduct home surveys to identify materials that may contain asbestos, take samples of suspected material, assess its condition and advise about what corrections are needed. Asbestos abatement contractors are trained in handling and removing asbestos-containing material. Some firms offer combinations of testing, assessment and correction. A professional hired to assess the need for corrective action should not be connected with an asbestos-correction firm. It is better to use two different firms so there is no conflict of interest.

Standards for asbestos consultants and asbestos abatement contractors vary from state to state and sometimes, city to city. You should verify the standards required by your local building authority before having any work done.

Need More Information? - The following sites provide further information or explanations about asbestos:

EPA's ASBESTOS HOME PAGE
CAL/OSHA

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According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of U.S. homes built from 2001-2008 are tainted by Chinese-made drywall. The emission of high levels of hydrogen sulfide gas from this product is linked to the corrosion of building components such as electrical wiring, copper plumbing, and air conditioning units, as well as household items like computers and jewelry. In addition, the drywall may be connected to possible throat, nose and lung irritation.

On April 2, 2010, based on completed and ongoing scientific study of the problem, HUD and CPSC issued interim remediation guidance to help homeowners struggling to rid their properties of problem drywall (the interim protocol was released before all ongoing scientific studies on problem drywall are completed so that homeowners can begin remediating their homes). The interim guidance recommends consumers remove all possible problem drywall from their homes, and replace electrical components and wiring, gas service piping, fire suppression sprinkler systems, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Taking these steps should help eliminate both the source of the problem drywall and corrosion-damaged components that might cause a safety problem in the home. CPSC will continue to release its scientific studies as they are completed.

Completed studies show a connection between certain Chinese drywall and corrosion in homes. The top ten reactive sulfur-emitting drywall samples were all produced in China. Certain Chinese samples had emission rates of hydrogen sulfide 100 times greater than non-Chinese drywall samples. The patterns of reactive sulfur compounds emitted from drywall samples show a clear distinction between the certain Chinese drywall samples manufactured in 2005/2006 and non-Chinese drywall samples. Some Chinese drywall samples were similar to non-Chinese samples. Finally, several Chinese samples manufactured in 2009 demonstrate a marked decrease in sulfur emissions as compared to the 2005/2006 Chinese samples. CPSC is continuing to look at long term health and safety implications.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns consumers to exercise caution in hiring contractors who claim to be experts in testing for and removing problem drywall. In a December 2009 Consumer Alert, the FTC recommends that homeowners confirm a contractor’s references, qualifications and background before agreeing to hire them.",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Chinese_Drywall_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Energy_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:530px;"),header:{show:true,text:"A Simple Review of Your Home Can Improve Energy Efficiency",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Energy"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Energy_options);consumertipsLibrary.Energy=Energy=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

Many homeowners are searching for ways to lower their future energy bills. A review of a home’s energy efficiency can often help reduce heat loss from the home and keep furnaces from being overworked.

Surprisingly, many homeowners think that home heating costs are out of their control. In reality, however, there are a number of things they can do to increase the energy efficiency of their home and keep heating costs down. The following are some simple recommendations for homeowners to improve their home’s energy use:


If you are unsure whether your home meets these recommended standards, consider obtaining a home inspection. Aside from informing the homeowner about ways they can increase their energy efficiency, an inspection will provide a complete overview of the condition of the home, which can help prevent unpleasant surprises.

All homes are subject to the effects of aging, so periodically monitoring the overall condition of a home is crucial. Tending to problems in advance will help improve a home’s use of energy, plus save a homeowner from extensive and costly repairs down the road.",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Energy_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Furnace_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:720px;height:680px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Defective Furnaces in California",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Furnace"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Furnace_options);consumertipsLibrary.Furnace=Furnace=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

Consolidated Industries (formerly Premier Furnace Co.), manufactured approximately 140,000 furnaces for sale in California between 1983 and 1994 that pose a substantial risk of fire. The units involved are gas-fired horizontal furnaces equipped with steel "NOx" rods installed above the burners and are commonly called NOx rod furnaces. Many of these furnaces are still in use today.

On July 9, 2001, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of approximately 30,000 of the subject furnaces that were sold by private labelers. The firms that sold these furnaces under their own labels are: Amana, Bard, Carrier, Goetti, Goodman, Heat Controller, and Trane. The additional estimated 110,000 of these furnaces were distributed under the brand names Consolidated, Premier, Addison, and Weatherking. These were not covered by the recall program and there was private litigation to enable consumers to recover at least some of their out-of-pocket expenses for replacement or repair of the involved furnaces, but the opportunity for remedy from litigation has expired.

Normally, the involved furnaces are installed in attics, although some may be installed in crawl spaces. The brand name and model number are written on a label on an outside panel of the furnace, and a listing of the recalled furnaces can be obtained at the CPSC's web site at: CPSC Announces Recall of Furnaces in California Consolidated or Premier furnaces with model numbers starting "HAC", "HBA", "HCA", or "HCC" and ending with an "X" in the last three characters (e.g. X, RX, RXC, RXD) and Addison Products Company Addison and Weatherking furnaces models beginning with "GHC" and ending in either "CC" or "DX" are included in the safety alert.


Suggestions for improving fire safety of all horizontal forced-air furnaces in attics

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Furnace_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_1_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:270px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Garage Doors",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),close:{overlayClose:true,escClose:true,show:true, closeImage: lwmwmpi+"../../../assets/modal/image_014_close.png",text:"
", textCss:nRTC("top: -6px; right: 10px; font-size:11px; font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;")},modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_1"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_1_options);consumertipsLibrary.Garage_Door_1=Garage_Door_1=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

Garage vehicle doors and door openers are easy and convenient to use. However, if operated or maintained improperly, garage doors can cause serious injury or even death. It is very important to be alert for potential hazards. An annual inspection by a professionally trained service person will help prevent problems. With a safely designed garage door and garage door opener, detailed instructions to family members, warning labels in key locations and regular maintenance, the risk of damage to property and injury from garage doors and openers can be dramatically reduced. The following are some key points to be aware of:

DOOR SPRINGS & HARDWARE

DOOR OPENERS

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_1_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_2_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:440px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Door Springs & Hardware",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_2"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_2_options);consumertipsLibrary.Garage_Door_2=Garage_Door_2=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

RETURN

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_2_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_3_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:530px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Door Openers",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_3"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_3_options);consumertipsLibrary.Garage_Door_3=Garage_Door_3=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

RETURN

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Garage_Door_3_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Mold_1_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:410px;"),header:{show:true,text:"General Information On Mold",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Mold_1"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Mold_1_options);consumertipsLibrary.Mold_1=Mold_1=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

Mold has been around for years and is commonly found in homes. But while often harmless, too much of certain kinds of mold in a home can be dangerous. Mold always indicates excessive moisture and the source should be corrected immediately.

Molds naturally grow in the indoor environment and mold spores may also enter through open doorways, windows, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.  But when mold spores drop in places where there is excess moisture and a food source such as common building materials, they will grow and often spread.  This frequently happens where leakage may have occurred in roofs, pipes, walls, plant pots, or areas affected by a flood. If this mold growth is toxic or pathogenic, some people might experience health problems as a result. Health conditions have been found to include such symptoms as congestion, chronic fatigue, bloody noses and flu-like symptoms that won’t go away.

Because mold can grow in moist areas that are often undetected, it is important for homeowners to have their home evaluated for areas that may be troublesome. A home inspection is an evaluation of the overall condition of a home and points out visual deterioration that exists throughout a house. This may alert a homeowner to problem areas that exist or sections of the home that may be susceptible to mold problems.

MOLD CONTROL TIPS

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Mold_1_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Mold_2_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:545px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Mold Control Tips",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Mold_2"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Mold_2_options);consumertipsLibrary.Mold_2=Mold_2=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("If a homeowner knows they have mold in their house, it is important to clean affected areas and eliminate sources of excess moisture. Additionally, to help prevent mold in the future, the following is recommended:

RETURN

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Mold_2_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Pool_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:590px;font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; border:10px solid #597394;"),header:{show:true,text:"Pool & Spa Safety",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Pool"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Pool_options);consumertipsLibrary.Pool=Pool=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

All homeowners and potential home buyers should take pool and spa fencing seriously. According to studies, more than half of all pool drownings that occur in the U.S. involve children under the age of five. Attention to pool fence and other safety issues is a vital imperative for everyone owning or living near a pool or back yard spa.

Ten basic rules to keep in mind when fencing an area around a pool or spa:

1. Fencing should totally surround the pool area.
2. Fencing should be at least four feet, but preferably six feet in height.
3. The bottom edges of fencing should be within 4 inches of pavement or within 2 inches of unpaved ground.
4. To prevent children from squeezing between vertical components of a fence, the spacing should not exceed 4 inches.
5. Fencing should provide no footholds or handholds that would facilitate climbing.
6. Diamond-shaped chain-link fence openings should be no larger than 1.75 inches, or have inserts to prevent climbing.
7. Pedestrian gates allowing access into the pool area should be self-closing/self-latching and latch mechanisms should be out of reach of small children.
8. Pedestrian gates should swing in a direction away from the pool (so small children do not push them open).
9. Gates for non-pedestrian use should remain locked when not is use.
10. When an exit door from the home or any adjacent buildings enters directly into the pool area, each such door should be equipped with a self-closing device and an audible alarm.
",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Pool_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Radon_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:700px;height:720px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Radon",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Radon"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Radon_options);consumertipsLibrary.Radon=Radon=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("

What Is Radon? - Radon is a radioactive, naturally occurring gas. It is tasteless, odorless and cannot be seen. Radon is produced from the natural radioactive decay of uranium and can be found in high concentrations in soils and rocks. In outdoor air, radon is diluted to such low concentrations that it is usually nothing to worry about. However, once inside an enclosed space such as a home, radon can accumulate. Indoor levels depend on the building's construction and the concentration of radon in the underlying soil.

What Health Effect Is Associated With Radon? - As radon naturally decays, other radioactive particles are formed. These airborne particles can become trapped in the lungs. As these particles decay further, small amounts of radioactive energy are released which can damage sensitive lung tissue and lead to lung cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer from exposure to radon depends upon the concentration of radon in the air and the length of exposure. Exposure to a slightly elevated radon level for a long time may present a greater risk of developing lung cancer than exposure to a significantly elevated level for a short time. In general, the risk increases as the level of radon and the length of exposure increase.

Do All Homes Have A Problem? - Houses may have high indoor radon levels caused by natural deposits of uranium in the soil or by building materials contaminated by waste from uranium mines, but most homes are unlikely to have elevated levels of radon. However, a relatively few homes do have high levels. The dilemma is that no one knows which houses have a problem and which do not. Because radon is a gas, it can move through the small spaces in the soil and rock on which a house is built. Radon can seep into a home through dirt subfloors, hairline cracks in concrete floors, walls, joints and tiny cracks or pores in block walls. It can also be entrained in water and be released into a home with a private well when the water is used.

How Is Radon Detected? - Since radon cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, special equipment is needed to detect it. Some of these devices are commercially available for home owners. Other devices require operation by trained personnel. In real estate transactions, a continuous radon monitor is normally recommended. This device is usually used for a 48-hour "screening" test and measures the radon concentration at 1-hour intervals.

What Do The Test Results Mean? - The EPA has set guidelines for whether or how quickly to take action to reduce radon levels. The screening test results will provide an idea of the average radon concentration throughout a home. Based on the results, corrective action may or may not be recommended.

Need More Information? The following EPA publications provide further information about radon:

A Citizen`s Guide to Radon
Radon and Real Estate

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Radon_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Remodeling_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:650px;height:490px;"),header:{show:true,text:"The Value Of An Inspection During Remodeling",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Remodeling"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Remodeling_options);consumertipsLibrary.Remodeling=Remodeling=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("Many homeowners are tapping into their home's equity to take on home improvement and remodeling projects. Considering the investment of remodeling projects, it is often wise to have the home inspected for safety and reliability. A professional home inspection can make sure the remodeling is performed to industry standards and accepted methods while also providing peace of mind, regardless of the project's size or budget.

When To Call A Home Inspector - There is no wrong time to call upon a home inspector, particularly during a remodeling project. For the purposes of remodeling, a home inspector is a consultant for home improvement and renovations. They can assist you throughout the entire process to help make sure your project is done correctly.",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Remodeling_options,options));};var consumertipsLibrary_Water_Heaters_options = lQuery.extend(true,{ }, lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.defaults, {containerCss:nRTC("width:700px;height:590px;"),header:{show:true,text:"Water Heater Safety",textCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#597394; padding:5px 30px 0px 30px; color:#FFFFFF; font-weight:bold;text-align:center;")},footer:{show:false},wrapCss:nRTC("font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size:11px; background-color:#455d7b; padding:10px 20px;color:#cfdef1;line-height:18px;text-align:left;"),modalFullId: "consumertipsLibrary_Water_Heaters"});lwmw_preloadImages(consumertipsLibrary_Water_Heaters_options);consumertipsLibrary.Water_Heaters=Water_Heaters=function(options){lQuery.consumertipsLibrary.impl.init("A gas water heater may look benign, but if improperly installed or maintained it is potentially very dangerous. Every year in the U.S., a few water heaters explode, leak deadly exhaust gas or cause fires with devastating results. Following are several general steps that can be taken to help prevent this from happening to you. (For specific installation requirements for your unit, please consult your local building authority.)

",lQuery.extend(true, {}, consumertipsLibrary_Water_Heaters_options,options));};lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'AC');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Asbestos');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Chinese_Drywall');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Energy');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Furnace');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Garage_Door_1');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Garage_Door_2');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Garage_Door_3');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Mold_1');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Mold_2');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Pool');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Radon');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Remodeling');lwmw_checkVarUrl('consumertipsLibrary', 'Water_Heaters');}}} /*210.1*/