Search found 255 matches

by BIGal
Fri Mar 01, 2024 3:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Slim/minimalist wallet suggestion
Replies: 139
Views: 17982

Re: Slim/minimalist wallet suggestion

https://www.axesswallets.com

Been carrying this one for the last couple of years. I highly recommend it.
by BIGal
Wed Feb 28, 2024 9:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: rider mower club cadet or john deere
Replies: 21
Views: 2155

Re: rider mower club cadet or john deere

I've had my JD LT160 since 2008 and it still does the job and does it quite well. As several others have said, I recommend buying from a JD dealership and not the big box store as they are NOT the same. I've not owned a zero turn, however, I do agree on the advantages if there are obstacles to negotiate. As with any equipment, maintenance is a must if you expect it to perform well. Besides oil changes you need to keep the blades sharpened. Good luck!
by BIGal
Mon Jan 15, 2024 10:36 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Oil change place left cap off... many miles driven
Replies: 21
Views: 3075

Re: Oil change place left cap off... many miles driven

I had the same thing happen to me on a Honda Accord several years ago. After paying for the service I went out and started the vehicle and immediately noticed that it didn't sound quite right. I opened the hood and could see that the oil cap was not on. I back inside and they said, have you checked by radiator, so I did and that is where I found it. Needless to say that was both the first and last time I went to that place for service. Now, I always go to a Toyota dealership (Highlander) to have my service done. I would definitely take it someplace else and have the oil changed again since you don't know for sure that they did it in the first place. I would advise the initial place you had it serviced and tell them to expect the bill for th...
by BIGal
Sun Jan 14, 2024 12:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best < $100 purchase?
Replies: 299
Views: 55817

Re: Best < $100 purchase?

When we go south for 3 months I use these Battery Tenders to keep the batteries in shape for when we return. I used to disconnect the batteries but this is so much easier and better for the battery. Saves me from replacing expensive batteries as often.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006 ... UTF8&psc=1
by BIGal
Tue Dec 26, 2023 2:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Anything special to see in Denver?
Replies: 33
Views: 3824

Re: Anything special to see in Denver?

Do the kids like money? I would consider visiting the Denver Mint if they do. While I haven't been there, I always thought it would be interesting and educational.
by BIGal
Mon Dec 04, 2023 9:47 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Odd Macbook Desktop Issue
Replies: 3
Views: 649

Re: Odd Macbook Desktop Issue

I would call Apple 800 275 2273. They will provide the resolution. That is just one of the several reasons I continue to purchase Apple/Macs.
by BIGal
Sat Nov 11, 2023 12:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cleaning Divided Light Windows
Replies: 8
Views: 1577

Re: Cleaning Divided Light Windows

If you decide to use a leafblower....opt for a battery-powered unit. I am told that a gas blower will blow tiny bits of gas/oil, which would not be good. I used to use a gas blower to dry my vehicle after washing, however, now I only use my electric blower.
by BIGal
Sun Oct 29, 2023 2:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Items that are worth the money for the quality
Replies: 553
Views: 64879

Re: Items that are worth the money for the quality

Sic Vis Pacem wrote: Wed Oct 21, 2020 9:51 pm Rogue exercise equipment
Darn Tough socks (hiking and running)
Osprey Packs
Allen Edmonds Shoes
K&N Filters (where appropriate)
Good Tires
Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller
Big Green Egg Grill and grilling accessories
Whatever mattress works for you (at any price).
LG OLED TV
Custom Suits
I have and strongly agree with 5 of the 11. Michelin Cross Climate 2 are the tires. Considering K&N for my next cabin filter.Being retired I seldom need socks or suits.
by BIGal
Thu Oct 05, 2023 5:50 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7638
Views: 1713186

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

"The Splendid and the Vile" by Erik Larson. this is an excellent and educational read on Churchill as PM in WWII.
by BIGal
Sat Sep 16, 2023 9:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Crock Pot Corner!
Replies: 92
Views: 9311

Re: Crock Pot Corner!

One of our favorites

Mississippi Roast:

3# arm or chuck roast
1/2 package of Hidden Valley Ranch dry seasoning
1/2 package of au jus dry mix gravy
1/2 stick butter
6 Peperoncini peppers

put the roast in the crock pot, sprinkle with dry ingredients, add butter and peppers, cover and cook (approximately 6 hrs)

Carrots, potatoes, onions, or whatever else may be added halfway through the cook.

Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
by BIGal
Mon Sep 04, 2023 2:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Aging Parents: (Lack Of) Nest Egg Drawdown
Replies: 22
Views: 2928

Re: Aging Parents: (Lack Of) Nest Egg Drawdown

I'm sure you have now realized you are asking the wrong group your question.

I cared for a relative who felt much the same about spending ANY money. Fortunately, or unfortunately, the bulk of his savings was taken for his eight years in a nursing home.

The only one who has any chance of learning from this experience is YOU. Good luck.
by BIGal
Thu Aug 31, 2023 3:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: ALL-IN-ONE laser printer
Replies: 72
Views: 7461

Re: ALL-IN-ONE laser printer

I purchased this flatbed photo scanner in 2013 for $209. I see the price has increased. This is an excellent photo scanner. One of the main reasons that I bought this one was for the ability to scan negatives. A flatbread scanner is by far the best for doing photos, albeit a very slow process.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002O ... =UTF8&th=1
by BIGal
Thu Aug 31, 2023 2:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: ALL-IN-ONE laser printer
Replies: 72
Views: 7461

Re: ALL-IN-ONE laser printer

I have a Brother HL-2275 DW laser printer and a ScanSnap 1X500 scanner that does 100% of what I need to accomplish. Additionally, I have a Staples cross-cut shredder. I do not see the need for a multi-function printer-scanner-copier. My goal is to file the minimum amount of paper that I handle. The ScanSnap does the front and back of pages at the rate of 25 per minute. I file everything I scan on my computer and if I ever need a copy I just print it. When I need to attach a document to an email it is as easy as a drag and drop. If you want to streamline your document handling, a good laser printer, sheet scanner, and shredder is the way to go, period.
by BIGal
Sat Aug 26, 2023 6:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vehicle Storage for 6 weeks: Any Concerns?
Replies: 47
Views: 3812

Re: Vehicle Storage for 6 weeks: Any Concerns?

I leave three vehicles all hooked up to the Battery Tenders for 3 months when we head south. Have been doing this for the last 5 years and have not had a single issue.

It is nice when we get home to be able to get in the vehicle and have it start immediately.

If you are concerned about mice, I would put some moth balls in the vehicle. If you know there are mice in the storage area, I would try to deal with that BEFORE I left the vehicle parked there.
by BIGal
Sat Aug 26, 2023 3:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vehicle Storage for 6 weeks: Any Concerns?
Replies: 47
Views: 3812

Re: Vehicle Storage for 6 weeks: Any Concerns?

you could always put a trickle charger on it I keep chargers on two of my cars (often more than 6 weeks between usage). I first tried the $10 Harbor Freight one that turned out to be garbage. On advice from a car buff friend, I got two of the below and am very happy with them. https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Tender-021-0123-Junior-Charger/dp/B000CITK8S/ref=sr_1_44?keywords=trickle+charger&qid=1692894196&sr=8-44 I use the Battery Tender also. I have 3 vehicles that I connect over the winter months. I use this model: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00068XCQU/ref=sspa_dk_detail_2?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B00068XCQU&pd_rd_w=nKOXe&content-id=amzn1.sym.ce83acae-ca3c-44cd-81e2-3d73204a3b21&pf_rd_p=ce83acae-ca3c-44cd-81e2-3d73204a3b21&p...
by BIGal
Tue Aug 22, 2023 9:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Should this Windows User Switch to Mac Laptop?
Replies: 40
Views: 2753

Re: Should this Windows User Switch to Mac Laptop?

I switched many years ago and am glad I did. A HUGE advantage that hasn't been mentioned, and should be, is AppleCare. Access to phone support is a definite "game changer". We have an iMac desktop as well as a MacBook Air and several older versions of each.
I decided to "mothball" the PC when it just kept getting slower and slower. Occasionally I do get on a PC and every time I do, I am more thankful that I have moved to a Mac.
by BIGal
Sun Jul 16, 2023 9:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Please help me trouble shoot a faulty gas cooktop
Replies: 28
Views: 2078

Re: Please help me trouble shoot a faulty gas cooktop

My advice is to call in a professional. Some repairs are beyond our abilities, when the problem is with a gas appliance, you need someone with the experience to resolve the issue SAFELY—just my two cents.
by BIGal
Sun Jun 11, 2023 2:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to fix potential water leak from the ceiling
Replies: 40
Views: 3044

Re: How to fix potential water leak from the ceiling

Agree that the issue needs immediate attention. I am not sure it is the best idea for everyone/anyone to dive into cutting a hole into the ceiling to identify what/where the leak is coming from. There are those that may be comfortable with DYI and others, not so much. You can never be sure what may lay on top of the sheetrock in that area. There could be wiring, ductwork, or other components that you could damage or be dangerous to someone cutting through. Call a plumber and leave it up to him/her to do the job. They should be able to bring a lot of experience to the situation, which could save money and blood, sweat, and tears.
by BIGal
Sun Jun 11, 2023 1:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Power outlets off and on
Replies: 40
Views: 4789

Re: Power outlets off and on

Highly unlikely that if a circuit trips it would "heal itself" and come back on. I would check with the owner and see if he has an agreement with the electric supplier to turn off some circuits randomly to help "peak shave". Depending on how it is wired, if the breakers for some circuit in your apartment are in another location and someone else is resetting the breaker. In any case, there is something definitely wrong that needs to be identified and addressed. Good Luck.
by BIGal
Fri May 05, 2023 12:23 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Costco Michelin - Cross Climate SUV
Replies: 21
Views: 3058

Re: Costco Michelin - Cross Climate SUV

I had Cross Climate 2 tires installed and balanced on our 2017 Toyota Highlander in October 2020 at a cost of $975 at our Toyota dealership. Mileage at the time was 60,500. The current mileage is 105,000. I do have the tires rotated every 5,000 miles. Last rotation we still have 6/32 in tread. These are great tires and are still in fine shape tread-wise. I do honestly believe that it is worth the time and money to have tires rotated on a regular basis. I have no problem recommending these tires.
by BIGal
Fri Mar 17, 2023 12:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Doing it yourself vs. paying someone else
Replies: 60
Views: 4579

Re: Doing it yourself vs. paying someone else

I do what I feel comfortable with. We replaced our roof a few years ago with steel and had gutter covers installed at the same time. Our exterior is pretty much all permanent ...steel siding, clad windows and aluminum soffits and facia. Has been a "method to my madness" to try to have low/no maintenance outside. We replaced our cedar deck of 25 years with composite. Landscape from wood chips to rubber tire ground up. I do mow our lawn with a JD riding tractor and do change the oil and perform most maintenance. Also replace sprinkler heads as needed. Do use YouTube for doing jobs that I may not be familiar with....great source. I have learned to take pictures with my phone BEFORE taking something apart. Finally...if something seems...
by BIGal
Sat Jan 14, 2023 3:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: New PC vs running windows on MacBook Pro
Replies: 50
Views: 2902

Re: New PC vs running windows on MacBook Pro

I had same issue with Quicken. Years ago I tried Parallels then after I got tired of the hassle of updates etc I decided on the laptop PC. The PC was fine for a couple of years but became a PITA. I finally decided to go with Quicken for Mac and haven't looked back. The quicker (no pun intended) you can get rid of everything PC the better your life will be, believe me.

One final thought, have you considered a CPA for corporate taxes. You may be able to solve the problem and even have more time to enjoy life.
by BIGal
Sat Dec 24, 2022 4:26 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Garage freezing - how cold is too cold?
Replies: 30
Views: 5656

Re: Garage freezing - how cold is too cold?

Sounds to me like you have just two choices: Move the items that will be ruined by freezing into the house or Put a temporary heater in the garage in the area where most are located. The garage doors are a major source of heat loss as would be uninsulated sidewalls. The ceiling should also be insulated if you intend to add some type of heat. That means some type of sheeting on the ceiling if there isn't anything there now. My guess is your only heat source is the heat loss from inside the home through the common wall. We live in the midwest where the temps have been below zero for several days. Our attic above the garage is insulated as well as the sidewalls and all of the garage doors are insulated as well. I have a 30,000 Btu direct vente...
by BIGal
Fri Dec 23, 2022 4:49 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How best to deal with home builder
Replies: 18
Views: 1524

Re: How best to deal with home builder

You should NOT relinquish the final decisions on anything in the process. YOU are paying the bills and it is YOU who needs to be satisfied. I went through a similar process 20 years ago when we built our home. I wish I knew then what I know now. You are in charge, period. If you don't address these issues now you will wish that you had when you get the final tally.
by BIGal
Fri Dec 23, 2022 4:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Renewing homeowners insurance policy - Electrical panel is a problem
Replies: 19
Views: 1834

Re: Renewing homeowners insurance policy - Electrical panel is a problem

My first thought is, why not just renew your current policy if they aren't requiring the electrical work? Then, in the spring you could get some estimates and avoid any issues with cold weather. I don't think you said where your electric meter is located. If the meter is inside then most likely it would be moved outside for any upgrade. Your first contact should be your electric utility. They will need to determine how much you can increase with your current service and if a larger size wire is needed. I would guess your service is overhead instead of underground so, it would be easier to increase the wire size. There are several alternatives to consider in a project of this nature. Personally, sizing for an EV would be the last thing I wou...
by BIGal
Fri Dec 23, 2022 2:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Moisture on Windows
Replies: 36
Views: 3408

Re: Moisture on Windows

Usually, a home's humidity drops considerably in the wintertime due to the heat turned on. Forced air systems, natural gas, propane, or oil burning probably dry the air the most. In our home which has a natural gas forced air furnace, I have installed a humidifier to bring the humidity up. Many homeowners who have humidifiers, either attached to the furnace or portable units incorrectly assume that the colder the outside temperature, the higher the humidity needs to be inside. This is the opposite of what it should be. We are currently experiencing below-zero temperatures with high winds here in the midwest. Our windows also have iced up somewhat so I have reduced the level to 20% from the previous setting of 35%. Kitchens and bathrooms pro...
by BIGal
Mon Dec 19, 2022 9:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Drilling into stucco/cement siding
Replies: 36
Views: 3272

Re: Drilling into stucco/cement siding

Have you considered alternatives to drilling into the siding? How heavy are the lights? Is it possible to use construction glue on a piece of wood that you could stick on the siding and then screw the bracket into the wood? Understand that it may be next to impossible to remove anything you use construction glue to attach. Good luck on whichever choice you make.
by BIGal
Tue Nov 29, 2022 7:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Toilet repair - tank to toilet gasket leaking
Replies: 31
Views: 2305

Re: Toilet repair - tank to toilet gasket leaking

Recently I experienced a similar problem with a toilet in our basement that we seldom use. Water was leaking from under the tank where it is bolted to the bowl. I removed the bolts (after turning off the water supply and draining the tank) then I disconnected the supply line to the tank. I was then able to remove the tank from the bowl and could see that the gasket between the two was the problem (the toilet was 25 years old) so, thinking I would be better off calling a plumber, I reassembled everything. The plumber came and took the tank off and installed the new gasket for around $75 and all was fine....until, I happened to be in a Walmart a few days later and was looking to replace the flapper I had used since I usually keep one on hand,...
by BIGal
Sat Nov 26, 2022 10:01 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Replace roof prior to selling house?
Replies: 30
Views: 2850

Re: Replace roof prior to selling house?

Guess it somewhat depends on what kind of buyer you are looking for. If you seek someone who wants a "fixer-upper" then just replace the missing or damaged. If you would like someone who wants a home they can buy and not immediately have to spend money on making things right, then re-roof the home. If you want the former, be prepared to negotiate the asking price. Good luck
by BIGal
Tue Nov 22, 2022 11:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best way to remove and replace a bicycle crank arm (which tools)?
Replies: 28
Views: 1706

Re: Best way to remove and replace a bicycle crank arm (which tools)?

Let me suggest a couple of options. If you have a bike shop you could take the pedal in and see if they recut the threads or, take both the pedal and the bike in and see if they can tap the crank arm without removing it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exJtmapUR1c
Finally, you may have to purchase a new pedal if the threads are to "shot" to recut.
by BIGal
Sat Nov 12, 2022 9:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Durable and lightweight bags for International travel
Replies: 46
Views: 3977

Re: Durable and lightweight bags for International travel

02nz wrote: Thu Nov 10, 2022 6:27 pm I also recommend Briggs and Riley - their lifetime warranty is probably the best in the business.
Another for Briggs and Riley. They sent me the repair parts we needed and I installed them. Baggage handlers can and do destroy luggage so the best warranty is an absolute must.
by BIGal
Tue Nov 08, 2022 1:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Snow tires Qs
Replies: 123
Views: 10791

Re: Snow tires Qs

I'm in a similar climate as you (SW Ohio). We get some snow, but not like the Great Lakes or New England regions. I put a full set of Michelin CrossClimate2 tires on my wife's Accord. They are all season tires ... and they also have a 3 peak mountain and snowflake (3PMSF) symbol to meet a snow traction requirement of a winter / snow tire. I've driven through a monsoon driving rainstorm on the highway on those tires - they were awesome. I've driven through four inches of snow on a not-yet-plowed road on those tires - they were awesome. They're a bit expensive, but as far as I'm concerned they met my primary criteria of being an excellent tire for bad weather (rain and snow). I put a set on our 2017 Highlander two years ago and agree 100% &q...
by BIGal
Sun Oct 16, 2022 7:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to Fix Exterior Window Sill That's Not Sloped
Replies: 16
Views: 2624

Re: How to Fix Exterior Window Sill That's Not Sloped

The failure to slope a window sill can allow water to pool and may eventually cause wood rot problems. I believe carpenter ants may be attracted to moist wood and can eat away at the sill causing damage.

Termites are another issue that should be of greater concern because if you do have them they will destroy much more than just a window sill. We had subterranean termites and had to have the complete perimeter of our home treated at the cost of about 2k. I would recommend a termite inspection (post haste) and remediation if needed. I would either repair the sill myself (if you have the tools and ability) or, hire someone who does. Good luck
by BIGal
Wed Sep 14, 2022 12:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Should I replace our 17 year old hot water heater before it breaks?
Replies: 67
Views: 10075

Re: Should I replace our 17 year old hot water heater before it breaks?

My initial response "if it ain't broke, don't fix (replace) it", however, given the circumstances, you may want to at least consider the options. I would begin by checking with your utility to see if there are any rebates for energy-efficient replacement water heaters now or beginning next year. You may also want to explore other location alternatives to the current. You would most likely increase the cost if water lines had to be relocated. I assume it is an electric unit, which is fine, especially being located in an attic. I would also have the emergency drain pan and piping checked and possibly replaced. Finally, if you expect to stay in the home for a while and if this replacement would give you peace of mind, then go for it.
by BIGal
Tue Sep 06, 2022 6:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Attic Insulation benefits.
Replies: 115
Views: 12872

Re: Attic Insulation benefits.

I am sure there would be a benefit from additional attic insulation. I would also question if the new AC is properly sized. If the "AC guy" doesn't understand the heat gain and loss concept, I would question his ability to size the AC unit. You need to contact someone who can perform an "energy audit" to include the existing attic insulation R factor as well as heat gain from other sources, like windows, etc. You are on the right track you just need to do some additional research. Good Luck
by BIGal
Mon Sep 05, 2022 9:55 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Oil Change Place Left Cap Off!
Replies: 52
Views: 7103

Re: Oil Change Place Left Cap Off!

Had a similar experience when I took our vehicle for an oil change. When I started it sounded a bit different, so I turned it back off and checked under the hood, and found the oil cap was not reinstalled. I went back inside and they said to check on the engine for the cap and I did find it and put it back on myself.

Fast forward several years. I now only take our vehicle back to a dealership for any and all work. I believe they have more "skin in the game" and I trust their work. I still do a walk around before leaving to make sure there are no issues like scrapes or dents. I guess it is the "trust but verify" at work.
by BIGal
Tue Aug 23, 2022 9:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets
Replies: 36
Views: 5509

Re: Metal Roof: Recommendations or Regrets

We did our 1900 SF ranch in 2011 and used steel shingles. We have a 7/12 pitch so at the time I decided that I no longer wanted to have to get on the roof to clean out the gutters so included a "gutter helmet type" quote. We live in the midwest so we do get lots of heavy snow. As it turned out the gutter "caps" probably saved our gutters from being ripped off from snow sliding off of the roof. If you have a steep pitch (which I assume you do) and get snow, you definitely need to address the gutter issue. The little stops they add to the lower part of the roof are essentially worthless. Very pleased with our decision to go with a metal roof. Formerly we had black asphalt and now have grey steel. I noticed a decrease in ou...
by BIGal
Sat Jul 30, 2022 1:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Master Bathroom Reno Advice
Replies: 80
Views: 9859

Re: Master Bathroom Reno Advice

https://www.amazon.com/Delta-BreezProfe ... 2264&psc=1


Not pushing Amazon, in fact, I think I bought ours at a Costco several years ago. It is amazingly quiet and the best is that it has a humidty gauge that turns on the fan whenever necessary, or, an on/off wall switch too.

Fantastic fan.

Give it a look, I am sure you won't be disappointed.
by BIGal
Wed Jul 20, 2022 12:28 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Do you use a password manager?
Replies: 361
Views: 34142

Re: Do you use a password manager?

1Password is definitely worth the subscription price. I sincerely hope that anyone using the paper and pencil method doesn't have any banking or other financial information online. There are times when the cost of a product is justifiable and using 1Password to manage not only your passwords but other information you want to remain secure is worth it.
by BIGal
Sun Jul 17, 2022 4:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: toilet - fix or replace
Replies: 71
Views: 4746

Re: toilet - fix or replace

https://www.cphouston.com/post/vortens-defective-toilet-update From your picture I see it is a Vortens and when I did a search, I came up with the above link to additional information. My initial thought was to have a plumber replace the rusted bolts that hold the tank on the base. however, after reading the information I now believe it would be in your best interest to change them out. I would suggest that you do as others have said and talk to your neighbors about different plumbers and do get another bid. Good luck. We changed out 3 in the last year and went with Kohler. The reason we changed them we because the originals we had installed 25 years ago were "low riders" and the new are taller. If I recall they were around 650 ea...
by BIGal
Sat Jul 16, 2022 12:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Bird watchers – what birds are you seeing?
Replies: 2851
Views: 225933

Re: Bird watchers – what birds are you seeing?

I heard a strange bird song this morning from a tree by our deck. I went out with my binoculars and saw a "different" bird but couldn't affirm that it was the bird with the song. I then went to my iPhone Merlin Bird app and was able to identify the song as a Gray Catbird.
by BIGal
Wed Jul 13, 2022 12:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Unused refrigerator in basement
Replies: 27
Views: 2638

Re: Unused refrigerator in basement

If you just want to get rid of it then advertise it as free with the stipulation that it needs to be carried up from your basement. We have a second refrigerator in our garage for "adult beverages".

If you decide to just unplug it be sure that it isn't a hazard for children so remove the door if it isn't magnetic.
by BIGal
Sun Jul 10, 2022 5:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: "Home" Printer: Recommendation
Replies: 46
Views: 4007

Re: "Home" Printer: Recommendation

Another vote for the Brother laser.

I am not a fan of the multifunction aspect. If you need a scanner, the one I use I have been extremely pleased with, is a Fujitsu Scan Snap. When/if I need a hard copy of any document, I scan it, print it and it comes out perfect. The Brother prints both sides which also saves paper.
These are the two most used devices in my office next to my iMac, of course.
by BIGal
Tue Jul 05, 2022 8:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7638
Views: 1713186

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results

Check it out
by BIGal
Mon Jul 04, 2022 10:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacing gate valve with ball valve
Replies: 73
Views: 6191

Re: Replacing gate valve with ball valve

I stand corrected. It appears to be ABS as it is transitioned to the plastic elbow. Is the feed from up above or below. If the feed is from above there is already a valve that turns everything off beyond it and a second valve isn't necessary depending on where the line runs down into the ground. That leaking valve would only isolate the valves in the sprinkler section shown in the box. Since there isn't a union to uncouple you will have to cut the pipe to replace the valve. Maybe repacking it would be the easier solution, good luck.
by BIGal
Mon Jul 04, 2022 10:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Replacing gate valve with ball valve
Replies: 73
Views: 6191

Re: Replacing gate valve with ball valve

The pipe to the right of the valve is NOT plastic. The marks on it are obviously from a pipe wrench. Initially, I thought it may be a gas valve, however, the later picture shows the valve box for the sprinkler system. My sprinkler system has plastic valves that operate with a solenoid for opening and closing. I would caution DIYers when uncertain what exactly they are dealing with. Natural gas and propane lines could be disastrous if you do not know what you are doing. Saving a plumber bill at the risk of burning down your home just isn't worth it.
by BIGal
Fri Jul 01, 2022 11:59 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: HVAC System Older, but running well - replace or wait?
Replies: 33
Views: 2873

Re: HVAC System Older, but running well - replace or wait?

I agree with jharkin 100%.

We built our home in 1996 and have replaced our Lennox Complete Heat (sb complete heap) system with the exception of the AC compressor and A coil. The water heater failed which meant the furnace was also toasted.

I have thought about changing the AC, however, I guess I am using the "if it ain't broke, don't replace it" motto at the moment. I do clean the coils on the compressor annually.

I did want to comment on the pictures from a previous post. It is very important to maintain a clear area around the compressor and it almost looked like they were in a fenced-in area. Airflow helps keep the units cooler and able to do their job more efficiently.
by BIGal
Sat Jun 18, 2022 10:20 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need help with HVAC quotes - switching from gas to heat pump
Replies: 17
Views: 1607

Re: Need help with HVAC quotes - switching from gas to heat pump

I will admit I am partial to natural gas. If one of your concerns is the $35 a month minimum and not the overall payback, then go for it. If you do decide to calculate the payback period for the conversion to the heat pump you better be sitting down when you get that number.
by BIGal
Sun Jun 05, 2022 1:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lawn Experts: Which Mower is Right for Me?
Replies: 87
Views: 6174

Re: Lawn Experts: Which Mower is Right for Me?

a "utility cut" about every 10 days in season is what I am planning.


I wouldn't even consider the electric if you expect to only do a "utility cut" every 10 days. Maybe if you drop that down to 5 days you could get by with the electric mower. I would suggest borrowing the electric mower and then again 10 days later to see what you think. The Honda mowers and equipment I have with the Honda engines have all been exceptional.
by BIGal
Thu Apr 14, 2022 5:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quicken Bug lost years of Data!!!
Replies: 17
Views: 1866

Re: Quicken Bug lost years of Data!!!

I had used Quicken for PC for years and it always performed well. Last summer I decided to convert my data to Quicken for Mac. Not sure it was a wise decision, however, I really didn't want to buy a new PC laptop since mine current one has "whiskers" and waiting for it to boot up was like watching paint dry. I also got the subscription and that goes against my better judgment too. I do need a financial software to track things mainly to run tax reports. If anyone has any suggestions for another program or method, I am all ears.