Search found 61 matches

by AWCM
Thu May 04, 2023 8:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare Cataract Consultations
Replies: 9
Views: 1287

Re: Medicare Cataract Consultations

Thanks again. Sounds like the same coverage we have. We are doing extensive research on lens options after our 1st visit didn't provide much other than pricing. We were hoping for more explanation of options, lens compatibility, risks, etc.
by AWCM
Thu May 04, 2023 8:16 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare Cataract Consultations
Replies: 9
Views: 1287

Re: Medicare Cataract Consultations

Perfect, thanks. Were you using just regular Medicare A and B (what we have) and not an advantage plan? Don't know if that makes a difference.
by AWCM
Thu May 04, 2023 6:22 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare Cataract Consultations
Replies: 9
Views: 1287

Medicare Cataract Consultations

Does Medicare cover multiple consultations for Cataract Surgery? Trying to find a provider that we feel comfortable with. I know it covers 2nd opinions but not sure if it applies to this. Anyone done this?
by AWCM
Mon Mar 27, 2023 9:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for shipping advice
Replies: 10
Views: 759

Re: Looking for shipping advice

Manager won't help. All I can do is a have someone pick it up for me and hold it until I figure out how to get it. I do have some friends in the area that may help.
by AWCM
Sun Mar 26, 2023 5:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for shipping advice
Replies: 10
Views: 759

Re: Looking for shipping advice

Good suggestions. I also discovered FEDEX express freight box. They will deliver a box kit including pallet and straps for free. 48x40x20 is the smallest and can be picked up and delivered (to my door), 1200lb weight limit for $179 + $100 fuel surcharge. I'm gonna see what the manager says tomorrow.
by AWCM
Sun Mar 26, 2023 11:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for shipping advice
Replies: 10
Views: 759

Re: Looking for shipping advice

Orlando to Fredericksburg VA.
by AWCM
Sun Mar 26, 2023 11:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for shipping advice
Replies: 10
Views: 759

Re: Looking for shipping advice

I'm trying to move 4 or 5 boxes of 12x24 tile, maybe 200-250lbs. Lots of freight companies available to transport from Florida to Virginia. My problem is getting someone to palletize it for pickup if the outlet store won't do it. I don't know of any shipping companies that will do that and that's why i'm asking here for idea's.
by AWCM
Sun Mar 26, 2023 9:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Looking for shipping advice
Replies: 10
Views: 759

Looking for shipping advice

Doing some remodeling and need a couple of boxes of tile to match what I have installed. Discontinued a while ago but I found an exact match at an outlet near Orlando, FL. I'm in Virginia. The outlet doesn't ship so i'm looking for idea's. I can ship via freight but somehow it needs to be put on a pallet and shrink wrapped for pickup. I have to call their manager Monday to see it they would do that for me. Trying to investigate contingencies. Thanks.
by AWCM
Sat Dec 24, 2022 11:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Moisture on Windows
Replies: 36
Views: 3408

Re: Moisture on Windows

FYI
Outdoor temperature Optimal indoor humidity level
Higher than 50°F Max. 45%
25°F to 50°F Max. 40%
0°F to 25°F 30% – 40%
-20°F to 0°F 20% – 30%
Below -20°F 15% – 20%

Find a cheap hygrometer to check but note that most are not very accurate. Maybe +/- 10 % or so.
by AWCM
Sat Feb 05, 2022 9:04 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Equifax Data Breach Settlement
Replies: 130
Views: 15048

Re: Equifax Data Breach Settlement

Thanks all.
by AWCM
Tue Feb 01, 2022 1:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Equifax Data Breach Settlement
Replies: 130
Views: 15048

Equifax Data Breach Settlement

Anyone get an email about the Equifax Data Breach Settlement? Says it was delayed due to appeals and the free credit monitoring service is now available. Is this worth the trouble since I have my accounts frozen anyway?
by AWCM
Mon May 24, 2021 1:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quartz countertop brands
Replies: 43
Views: 5494

Re: Quartz countertop brands

Some great info, thanks. Went and looked at slabs available locally. The quartzite slabs were nice but pricey. Several granite slabs were nice and not too wild. We have granite now so we are familiar with its characteristics. Just don't like the color of what we have and since we are replacing the cabinets anyway it's time for the color change. Brought home a sample of soapstone and have researching that option. Really like it and are leaning that way. Prefer a lighter grey color but if we oil it it gets very dark. A lot of folks just leave it natural and that should work fine. I believe the oil is just for looks as soapstone doesn't need sealing.
by AWCM
Sun May 23, 2021 8:05 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quartz countertop brands
Replies: 43
Views: 5494

Re: Quartz countertop brands

Now we are back looking at granite and quartzite. The silestone sample we have just looks like the old formica, just very hard.
by AWCM
Sun May 23, 2021 6:13 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quartz countertop brands
Replies: 43
Views: 5494

Re: Quartz countertop brands

We plan on visiting yards to pick the slabs we need if we can find them. Also the fabricator we are working with will let us view the slabs when they get them before they cut. We received a Silestone 4"x4"x3/16" thick sample they sent to us and it's very hard, kind of like porcelain. Will play with it while we search for slabs.
by AWCM
Sat May 22, 2021 7:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quartz countertop brands
Replies: 43
Views: 5494

Re: Quartz countertop brands

Thanks everyone. Quartz it is, just need to choose the right color/pattern.
by AWCM
Sat May 22, 2021 11:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quartz countertop brands
Replies: 43
Views: 5494

Quartz countertop brands

Replacing our kitchen countertops soon and want something less busy looking and lighter than most granite. Picked out a nice Silestone color (Lusso) but then found lots of bad reviews about chipping, cracking and very poor warrantee service. Cambria seems to be better and are the only USA based company but still find questionable reviews. Same for most of the many brands available.

Experiences and advice from you folks would be greatly appreciated
by AWCM
Fri Apr 16, 2021 10:28 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Painting Vinyl Siding
Replies: 13
Views: 1038

Re: Painting Vinyl Siding

It's not new construction but don't believe there is any siding underneath.

All good advice, thanks everyone.
by AWCM
Fri Apr 16, 2021 8:36 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Painting Vinyl Siding
Replies: 13
Views: 1038

Painting Vinyl Siding

My son wants to change the color of their vinyl siding. Best option would be to replace it with new but he wants to maybe paint it. Anybody try the painting route? Will it last? What about pressure washing in the future?

Thanks
by AWCM
Sat Jan 09, 2021 12:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: iOS 14 Battery drain on iPhone
Replies: 39
Views: 3356

Re: iOS 14 Battery drain on iPhone

I have an iPhone SE that's a few months old using 14.3. I recall battery drain issues when 14 was 1st installed but now is fine. Only charge in every other day unless I happen to drain it for occasional heavy use. Lately I put it on the charger only when it drops below 30% or 40%. Only takes a couple hours at most to bring it back to 100%. Battery health still 100%.
by AWCM
Thu Sep 24, 2020 11:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: iOS 14 Battery drain on iPhone
Replies: 39
Views: 3356

Re: iOS 14 Battery drain on iPhone

My new Iphone SE was draining fast after installing 14. Found that the Waze app was causing it even when not in use. Deleted the app and drain was back to normal. After a couple of days I reinstalled it. A day later it did it again so I deleted it again. Guess I'll wait for an update.
by AWCM
Fri Sep 04, 2020 9:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cell phone plan unlimited phone and text, very little data
Replies: 22
Views: 1768

Re: Cell phone plan unlimited phone and text, very little data

Been using Consumer Cellular for years. Works great.
by AWCM
Wed Sep 02, 2020 5:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

That's about what I was figuring. Thanks
by AWCM
Wed Sep 02, 2020 5:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

I installed the Honeywell above the coil today. Was very easy. Question for those with experience. Mine has an odor. It's not too bad but am wondering if this goes away after a few days.
by AWCM
Sat Aug 29, 2020 6:21 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

LifeIsGood wrote: Sat Aug 29, 2020 5:17 am Is this a DIY type of project or should you have an HVAC person install? Does the bulb burn 24/7 or just when the furnace/AC runs?
Where I am installing this it is DIY. To put it under my coil would need a professional but that location would put it too close to the furnace heat exchanger anyway. UV bulbs don't do well turning on and off. They are designed to be on 24/7 and last a year or more. Units that turn on with an airflow sensor remain on for 3 hours after the airflow stops so not really an advantage that I see. Been using UV to treat our drinking water for many years and just have to change the bulb annually.
by AWCM
Fri Aug 28, 2020 2:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

Thanks everyone.
by AWCM
Fri Aug 28, 2020 10:48 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

I installed this unit 3 yrs ago, I replace the bulb once each yr. Works well. Price has gone up of course. I put mine in air return in front of coil. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004I5CSCQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Bulb replacement https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DTLYW0U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Chuck107, Thanks for the info. Looks like just what I need. Please confirm that this replacement bulb is the right fit. Can't really tell from amazon. Thanks Yes those are the right bulbs for the unit I posted Honeywell. I took the link directly from my order of bulbs. I had purchased 4 bulbs at one time and have used one as a replacement this past Jan 1, 2020 Thanks again
by AWCM
Fri Aug 28, 2020 10:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Re: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

Chuck107 wrote: Fri Aug 28, 2020 6:42 am I installed this unit 3 yrs ago, I replace the bulb once each yr. Works well. Price has gone up of course.
I put mine in air return in front of coil.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004I ... UTF8&psc=1

Bulb replacement
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DT ... UTF8&psc=1
Chuck107, Thanks for the info. Looks like just what I need. Please confirm that this replacement bulb is the right fit. Can't really tell from amazon. Thanks
by AWCM
Fri Aug 28, 2020 6:29 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum
Replies: 24
Views: 3402

Adding a UV light to my HVAC supply plenum

Looking for those out there that have added a UV light to their HVAC system. Adding one just above the AC coil in the supply plenum should be easy and same for annual bulb replacement. Looking for your experiences and recommendations on brands, etc.
Thanks
by AWCM
Fri Jun 12, 2020 10:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Which backup sump pump would you go with?
Replies: 15
Views: 1657

Re: Which backup sump pump would you go with?

I installed one of these.

https://www.amazon.com/Wayne-ESP25-Upgr ... B07GJXRZ1V

Got a deep cycle battery from Costco to power it. It's not only a backup for power failure but also takes over if the main pump fails. Will run in AC if available or DC if the power fails. My last house had a cheap backup that was useless. I test this occasionally and it's about as powerful as the main pump.
by AWCM
Mon Feb 03, 2020 7:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning
Replies: 17
Views: 2424

Re: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning

FYI Called this morning (3 Feb) and earliest appointment was 30 March, same date for office or call back. Gonna try a walk in just to be safe since I was told it can take 30-90 days to go thru.
by AWCM
Sun Feb 02, 2020 11:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning
Replies: 17
Views: 2424

Re: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning

Just tried and it failed as I expected. I'll have to call Monday and try to get an appointment.
by AWCM
Tue Jan 28, 2020 2:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning
Replies: 17
Views: 2424

Re: Medicare for Non-Working Spouse - Info & Warning

My wife will be eligible to signup for Medicare next week. I've been on it for a couple of years but am holding off on social security for a little longer. This had me concerned so I called SSA to ask about this issue. I was told she should have no problem signing up online and also has nothing to do with me receiving SSA. Will see what happens next week.
by AWCM
Sat Jan 11, 2020 8:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Replies: 17
Views: 2979

Re: RTA Kitchen Cabinets

Painterbill wrote: Sat Jan 11, 2020 5:50 am Check out:
https://www.barkercabinets.com/
When we were building a couple of years ago I found this company, I ordered a sample door and was impressed with the quality.
I have looked at them also and they do look nice. Also found, https://www.choicecabinet.com/. They look pretty good too.
by AWCM
Sat Jan 11, 2020 8:07 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Replies: 17
Views: 2979

Re: RTA Kitchen Cabinets

Cubicle wrote: Sat Jan 11, 2020 1:03 am
Bengineer wrote: Fri Jan 10, 2020 5:18 amDo you have a website URL for "RTA"? That TLA is a very common component of RTA providers.
AWCM wrote: Fri Jan 10, 2020 11:11 amCubicle, which RTA company did you use?
Oh, I didn't even think there was more than 1 place. I thought RTA was a "brand name" so I thought OP was talking about the place I coincidentally used.

https://www.thertastore.com/

^^^ The site I used.
________________________________________
AWCM wrote: Thu Jan 09, 2020 6:39 pmLooking at RTA
What does "RTA" mean in this context?
RTA = Ready To Assemble
by AWCM
Fri Jan 10, 2020 11:56 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Replies: 17
Views: 2979

Re: RTA Kitchen Cabinets

I was going to just replace my existing cabinets with the same setup but after reading some of these reply's I may consider a redesign. Cubicle, which RTA company did you use? Thanks all One of the most reasonable ways to dress up existing cabinets is to order new doors and hardware, especially if the carcasses are still in great shape. There are a number of places online that can make custom doors and ship them right to your door. I did price new doors and drawer fronts for about 2.5k. All new cabinets came to about 3.5k. Not that much of a difference but a lot more work for new cabinets. If we change the layout it will involve flooring issues (currently hardwood that matches the whole house) and possible plumbing and electrical relocatio...
by AWCM
Fri Jan 10, 2020 11:11 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Replies: 17
Views: 2979

Re: RTA Kitchen Cabinets

I was going to just replace my existing cabinets with the same setup but after reading some of these reply's I may consider a redesign.

Cubicle, which RTA company did you use?

Thanks all
by AWCM
Thu Jan 09, 2020 6:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: RTA Kitchen Cabinets
Replies: 17
Views: 2979

RTA Kitchen Cabinets

Looking for advice on kitchen cabinets. I really don't have much trust in online reviews. Looking at RTA and leaning toward Lily Ann Cabinets. Anyone have experience with this brand or have other recommendations? Planing to install myself. Thanks.
by AWCM
Sat Oct 19, 2019 6:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Are Really Large Battery Brands Fungible?
Replies: 29
Views: 4151

Re: Are Really Large Battery Brands Fungible?

My backup sump is setup with an Interstate marine battery (27DC) I got from Costco. Exact match for spec required for $80.
by AWCM
Fri Oct 04, 2019 9:28 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medical Specialists
Replies: 11
Views: 1581

Re: Medical Specialists

Thanks all. Several Gastroenterologist's in the area but most get poor reviews. Of course reviews online are not a good indication and most are old. Might have to look farther away like towards DC or Richmond.
by AWCM
Fri Oct 04, 2019 8:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medical Specialists
Replies: 11
Views: 1581

Re: Medical Specialists

Anyone know of o good Gastroenterologist near Fredericksburg, Virginia?
by AWCM
Fri Oct 04, 2019 8:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Medical Specialists
Replies: 11
Views: 1581

Medical Specialists

Trying to figure out where my wife should go for treatment. She has had ultrasounds and an MRI and has multiple cysts on her liver, kidneys and pancreas. Largest is on the liver. All appear to be non cancer so her primary doctor wants to wait and re-scan in 12 months. She is having significant discomfort so we want another opinion.

Question is which specialist? Urology, Phonology, Gastroenterology or maybe just internal medicine. Really hard to find good doctors.

Thoughts please.
by AWCM
Mon Sep 23, 2019 7:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: *UPDATE* A/C and furnace - flooding
Replies: 52
Views: 5685

Re: *UPDATE* A/C and furnace - flooding

2K to clean a coil is very high. Most can be cleaned in place. Call a few other places and get estimates. If it's freezing up it needs to be cleaned.
by AWCM
Sun Sep 22, 2019 8:02 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Condensing furnace condensate
Replies: 7
Views: 1061

Re: Condensing furnace condensate

I might just try limestone or marble chips. Don't think it could hurt.
by AWCM
Sun Sep 22, 2019 1:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Condensing furnace condensate
Replies: 7
Views: 1061

Re: Condensing furnace condensate

The only water that gets to my sump is from the AC, dehumidifier and drain at the bottom of my outside basement steps. The condensing furnace is a new add to the sump. General consensus is that it should be fine as is. I may just add some water occasionally just to be safe. The pump runs a lot when we have rain which is why I installed a backup pump.
by AWCM
Fri Sep 20, 2019 8:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: *UPDATE* A/C and furnace - flooding
Replies: 52
Views: 5685

Re: A/C and furnace – probable replacement (soon)

If you have to replace your system take a look at Amana. Great warrantee. Made in the USA. Just need to find a good installer.
by AWCM
Fri Sep 20, 2019 5:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Condensing furnace condensate
Replies: 7
Views: 1061

Re: Condensing furnace condensate

Great, thanks
by AWCM
Fri Sep 20, 2019 3:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Condensing furnace condensate
Replies: 7
Views: 1061

Condensing furnace condensate

Anyone drain their furnace condensate into a sump pump pit? I know it's acidic but can't find a good answer. My new furnace is setup this way. Some say it's OK but others disagree. Some say it needs to go through a condensate neutralizer. Just looking for anyone who has this setup. I don't want to damage my pump. Thanks
by AWCM
Sun Jul 21, 2019 9:05 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacement Windows
Replies: 30
Views: 2618

Re: Replacement Windows

Thanks everyone. Lots of great input.
by AWCM
Sat Jul 20, 2019 5:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacement Windows
Replies: 30
Views: 2618

Re: Replacement Windows

CascadiaSoonish wrote: Sat Jul 20, 2019 3:21 pm Another option: window inserts. We have Indows for all of our original (100+ year old) single pane windows. They do a great job of stopping drafts and cutting down on noise. I think the additional air gap would help with the OP's solar issue. A lot cheaper than replacement windows, too. indowwindows.com. No financial interest or affiliation, just a satisfied customer.
Interesting, thanks.
by AWCM
Sat Jul 20, 2019 5:01 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacement Windows
Replies: 30
Views: 2618

Re: Replacement Windows

random_walker_77 wrote: Sat Jul 20, 2019 3:33 pm You might also consider pricing out adding a window film to reduce the infrared heat coming in through the windows.

Another alternative, if the window frames are good, is to replace just the glass. Get some glass companies to quote replacing the insulated glass units. I'd recommend multiple quotes, when we got quotes, the highest quote came in at double the lowest quote.
I tried film on the front storm door and my wife hated the look. I'm sure it would have helped but I had to remove it. Same story with solar screens. Made the room too dark.