American Van Lines - Raleigh Movers

Avoiding Moving Scams

2010-08-16T16:26:00.000-07:00

Moving is always easier when you use a reputable moving company like American Van Lines. Most moving companies pack and transport everything for you, giving you time to focus on other aspects of your move. It may be tempting to just use the cheapest movers you can find but that may not be the best idea. American Van Lines, the moving company Raleigh residents rely on for quality service would like to offer some details on common moving company scams to help you identify and avoid them.

Moving is stressful enough with having to worry about the condition of your items or finding employment. The last thing you need to worry about is a corrupt moving company. To avoid moving scams you should go with our reputable Raleigh movers. When you use experienced movers like our Raleigh movers you will get a guaranteed moving quote.

Our movers will give you a detailed written quote which guarantees that you will only pay for an agreed weight or distance. Details about our licenses can be found online at the FMCSA website. Membership in other moving associations such as the American Movers and Storage Association is also an indication of a reputable mover. Those with the ProMover stamp of approval such as our movers in Raleigh should give you added assurance about the authenticity of our moving company. Reading moving reviews is also a good way to determine the viability of Raleigh movers.

If you have been a victim of any kind moving fraud you should contact the Department of Transportation to file a report, you may be surprised how common these scams are.

Trust your moving services to American Van Lines; the moving company Raleigh residents trust the most.

Household Appliance Check before Moving In

2010-08-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Moving to a new home can be exciting. Unpacking and making arrangements may take the majority of your focus but you should take time out from your move to check the household appliances. Some homes are sold as is but most homes are sold with the belief that you will find everything in working condition. It would be a good idea to make sure that you are getting what you paid for. American Van Lines, the moving company Raleigh residents prefer would like to help you do a basic check to make sure that everything is as promised.

You should start by checking the safety appliances to ensure that they are in working order. Check smoke detectors by running a test that can be activated by holding down the test button. Avoid holding matches or a lighter near smoke detectors to test them because that could cause them to malfunction. Replacing the batteries in smoke detectors regularly is very important to ensure that they work they way they’re supposed to. You should check to ensure that smoke detectors are not covered in paint which can block the sensors and prevent any smoke from ever reaching the detectors. Other safety items to check for include fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and security alarms if you have them.

According to our Raleigh movers, most homes are sold with washer and dryer sets included so you should check these appliances by first making sure that there is a power supply that is connected to the proper outlet. Check washers by making sure that the hot and cold faucets are on and flowing. Check the drainage hose to make sure that used water is routed to a proper drain.

Exhaust ducts on a dryer should be cleared to ensure that your dryer is running. Check the breakers and fuses if your dryer is not heating up. Make sure that your dryer is on leveled ground and not moving freely while in use. The extra vibration can actually damage the dryer. Check water heaters by looking at the label and projected lifespan on the heaters. Look for rust, rocks and other debris around the bottom of your water heater which would indicate leaks that could affect the performance of your heater.

Check kitchen appliances to make sure they function the way they are meant to. Check that your stove is clean and free of grease. You should also make sure that all the burners are heating up by turning them onto the highest settings. They should heat up at the same time and heat up completely. Your refrigerator should already be running and blowing cold air before you get there. If you find it unplugged, this may be a problem. Once you have made sure that everything is in working order you can begin enjoying your new home.

Gun Safety in Raleigh

2010-08-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Raleigh is home to many firearm activities, everything from skeet shooting, duck hunting to sharp shooting ranges are common place here. If you plan to participate in any of these activities you should know how to handle yourself around fire arms. People new to Raleigh should enroll in a firearm safety course and get informed on the limitations of firearm usage in Raleigh. American Van Lines Raleigh movers come across people who take an interest in some sort of firearm activity when they move here all of the time. They are usually referred to the Personal Defense & Handgun Safety Center which offers a variety of gun safety courses for the novice and experienced gun owners alike, everything ranging from one on one home defense lessons to concealed weapons certificates.

If you or someone you know owns a firearm it is important to know at least the basics of handling a firearm. You should take some time to read the instructions completely before handling a firearm. One of the first rules of firearm safety is just common sense, never point a gun at something unless you intend to shoot it. Keeping guns pointed in a safe direction at all times even when you think it is unloaded ensures that no one gets hurt in the event of an accidental discharge. Never leave fire arms loaded; this will reduce the chance of it accidentally going off even if someone irresponsible gets hold of it.

Once you do load a firearm you should never let it out of your sight or out of your hands. Anything man made has the possibility of failing, so do not rely on the safety for protection. You should always treat your gun as if it’s loaded. Before loading your gun, check to make sure there aren’t any spent shells stuck inside. Also, clear the barrel of any debris; this includes dust, lint or grease. Firing a gun with even the smallest amount of dirt or debris can cause the barrel to bulge and even burst while firing.

If your gun misfires you should be extra cautious when handling it. Never, under any circumstance look into the barrel. If you are outdoors you should point the gun in a safe direction or at the ground before checking it. Engage the safety then carefully cock back the chamber to release the unspent round then unload the magazine and dispose of it. Do not use the same cartridge if it causes jamming. A cleaning brush and clean cloth should be used to clear the chamber.

Despite popular trends you should never try to modify your firearm in any way. Changing anything on a gun can compromise the safety features that are designed for your protection. Make an effort to learn every detail about your specific firearm because not every gun is the same. Every model is different with differences in handling, ammunition, loading and firing.

Drugs and alcohol can make any activity a potentially dangerous situation. When using something as dangerous as guns you should avoid doing anything that can impair you natural senses even slightly. Guns are not toys so horse play of any kind should always be avoided. If you stay within the proper guidelines when using a firearm you should have no problem safely enjoying the many gun related activities in Raleigh.

Visit the moving company Raleigh trusts most for only useful tips.

Forwarding Your Mail When Moving

2010-08-09T16:17:00.000-07:00

Moving comes with a lot of responsibilities. Some of these responsibilities can easily slip your mind but that does not make them any less important. One of the most commonly forgotten things to do when moving is mail forwarding. It may be because you are focused your new home or just because it seems like a lot to do, whatever your reasons it will be in your best interest to forward your mail and services as soon as possible. American Van Lines movers in Raleigh would like to offer a useful checklist to help you remember to forward your services.

The best place to start is at your local post office, you can request a change of address form at least a month before you move. Be sure when completing the change of address form that you include the date that you want these changes to start. You can turn this form in with your outgoing mail so it’s convenient. Your post office should send you a confirmation letter at least three weeks of receiving your request.

Your confirmation letter will be delivered to your new address to prevent fraud. You also have the option of forwarding your mail online for a $1.00 fee on the US Postal Service web site. You can make a payment by credit card. The web site also gives you the option of printing out your request form which you can filled out and given to your local mail carrier.

Magazine subscriptions will be forwarded to your new address for up to 60 days so it is a good idea to contact your subscription vendors to notify them about your change of address. Once you have informed the USPS of your relocation you can rest assured that your mail will arrive to the correct place which leaves you with one less thing to worry about. With your qualified Raleigh movers handling your moving services you will be able to focus your attention on other matters.

The Advantages of Split Air Conditioners

2010-07-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

Moving in the summertime means spending time outdoors with friends and family. Eventually you will want to retreat from the harsh temperatures of the summer sun and spend some time indoors. Some people choose to leave their central air conditioner on while they are outdoors so they do not have to wait for their home to get cool when they are inside. This can put a lot of strain on your air conditioner which can end up costing you a lot on your energy bill.

Some people are opting to use alternative forms of air conditioning. Split air conditioners are the latest method that people are turning to keep cool on a budget. American Van Lines Raleigh movers would like to illustrate some of the advantages of using a mini split air conditioner.

One feature that you will immediately notice about a split air conditioner is the fact that it runs almost completely quiet. This is due to the fact that the compressor and cooling unit are separated making installation a breeze.

These units can be connected to multiple cooling units that can be positioned to cool the parts of the room that need the most cooling. Mini splits as they are commonly know are more cost effective to run than central air conditioning units because they are able to maintain room temperatures better than conventional air conditioning units. By using these compact units instead of your central air conditioner unit you can save a lot on your energy bill.

How to Make a Moving Estimate

2010-07-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Everyone has to move at some point in their lives, it’s just the way things are. Using qualified Raleigh movers would present a great deal of advantages that you could not get on your own. Despite the advantages, many people avoid using a moving company for the same reason they avoid moving in general, they think it is too expensive. American Van lines movers in Raleigh have experience moving people all over the nation and we would like to lend our expertise to help you estimate what it would cost to move.

First, you should determine how you are going to move. If you plan to use a moving company you should determine how big of a moving truck you are going to need. Find out if your movers charge extra for different sized moving trucks. If you plan to move yourself then you are going to need to rent a moving truck, the size of the truck will still determine part of the cost but you should factor in additional costs for fuel.

You should also make a list of any packing and loading equipment you will need. Those using a moving company should find out if there are any extra costs for moving equipment and packing materials. You should also ask about the cost of labor if you plan to hire any movers.

There is a chance that your relocation may take a little longer than you had anticipated so entertainment and sight seeing costs should be factored into your estimate. If you are going to need storage services it would be a good idea to contact a storage location to get an estimate on the cost of storage. Temporary living costs like hotel and food costs should also be included in your estimate. Special services like pet deliveries, antique moving and vehicle transport should also be a part of your estimate. Once these costs are added up you will be prepared for any costs that may arise while moving.

For more help moving tips, visit the moving companies Raleigh know and trusts for unbeatable moving services

Easily Affordable Business Moving In Raleigh

2010-07-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

Times change and so do customers. Most business owners find out sooner or later that sometimes the best thing for a business is to go where the customers are. Most people think that moving a business is either going to take up too much time or that it is too expensive. This may be true with most Raleigh movers, but American Van Lines, the moving company Raleigh businesses trust to provide quality moving services would like to illustrate how easy and affordable office moving can be. We recommend that you use a professional moving company that will accommodate your business moving needs.

When you use our esteemed moving company you can expect to get a full service move, which includes planning, coordinating, packing, loading, unloading and the transporting of office supplies. You will also find that we offer convenient commercial storage options in large, climate-controlled storage units. Superior electronic packing supplies are used to ensure that your electronic equipment is securely packed for safe office moving. We deliver and install all of your office equipment so it’s fully functional and ready for business. You will be in direct communication with a personal moving expert that will walk you through the relocation process and answer any questions you may have. We work seven days a week and will work on weekends so your business never suffers any downtime. You will find that our commercial moving services are offered at competitive rates and we guarantee you’ll be charged your moving quote.

Money Saving Garden in Raleigh

2010-07-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

Moving into a new home can be both exhausting and financially taxing. Once our movers in Raleigh have completed your moving services and you have settled into your home, you may be contemplating ways to save money on household necessities. With today’s economy we are seeing an increase in the price of some our favorite household items especially groceries. American Van Lines, the moving companies Raleigh residents have come to know and trust wants to help you save on some of these everyday food expenses by offering useful tips.

A lot of the things that we buy at our local grocers can be grown at home. A home garden will help you save money and relieve a lot of stress while providing you with an activity the whole family can do together. According to the National Gardening Association, a home garden can grow up to a half a pound of vegetables per square foot. With a home garden you will definitely see a return on your investment. A bag of seeds at a dollar a pack can produce more than forty dollars worth of vegetables a month!

Setting up your Garden

You should carefully set up your gardening space and remember to keep it simple. A person could easily spend more money setting up a garden than they will get out of it. Stay away from new and fancy gardening made simple products. If you’re like most people you cannot afford to experiment with unproven products. Some of the tools that you’ll need are a soil thermometer; string and stakes, a steel rake, and a hose for watering. One thing to keep in mind about gardening is that it requires patients.

The first thing to consider before starting your home garden is the type of crops you want to grow. Some crops are specific to certain regions due to climate conditions. Raleigh is one city that has the perfect climate to grow the most edible crops in the spring time.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are great to start with, especially considering the unusually long winter that we had this year which caused the cost of tomatoes to almost double. A pound of tomatoes can cost up to two dollars. As we all know, tomatoes don’t stay fresh for too long so buying in bulk is not an option. Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow and maintain, just a few plants will produce a large harvest. There are many different types of tomatoes so you will not have a hard time finding the type that fits your garden and personal taste. To get started, you should select a location that will help promote a healthy harvest.

Tomatoes should be planted in the area with the most sunlight. For unleveled land, avoid planting tomatoes on a lower level so that water has enough space to drain into the soil without making a puddle. The soil should be prepared by loosening it to a depth of at least fifteen inches, and then mix about a two-inch layer of compost into the soil.

If you are starting from scratch then you should sprout the seeds indoors in a pot or sprouting pod. If you are buying plants then you should put stakes up where you plan to put your plants. Your stakes should be at lest eighteen inches apart. Trim the lowest leaves and then place them into the ground. Water generously and keep watered for the first couple of days.

Lettuce

Lettuce is the most commonly consumed vegetable and should account for more than half of your vegetable expenses. Lettuce can be grown during most seasons and will even grow at temperatures as cold as 40° Fahrenheit. Lettuce much like tomatoes should be planted where it can get plenty of sunlight and the soil can be fully watered. The soil for planning lettuce can be prepared the same way as tomatoes with exactly the same measurements apart. Remember, some lettuce does not grow well in warmer climates so you should find out which types grow best in the season you are planting in. Water generously and use mulch to keep the soil cool.

Thyme

Cooking thyme also know as English thyme can be tricky to grow but once you get it started maintaining is not as hard. Thyme seeds usually take a while to sprout which will prompt most gardeners to abandon the idea all together. Place plants at least nine inches apart and use light mulch in the winter time to prevent the soil from hardening. Trim plants in the summer to control growth.

There are many other edible plant species that can be grown in Raleigh year-round. Some of these are: asparagus, basil, broccoli, carrots, parsley, peppers and many more. The amount of money that you can save on groceries makes this a great home project that the entire family can enjoy.

Summer Fun in Raleigh

2010-07-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

If you are new to the Raleigh area, American Van Lines, the moving company Raleigh residents prefer would like to welcome you to the area and invite you and your family to participate in some of Raleigh’s great outdoor activities. If you have never been to Raleigh then you will be pleasantly surprised by the picture perfect landscapes and warm breezy weather. We may get a few rain clouds but it rarely rains for more than an hour.

Raleigh is home to a wide variety of summer activities. With more than 150 North Carolina parks, gardens, greenways, hunting and camp grounds you are bound to find something that the whole family can get into. Everything from fishing, camping, hiking, horse back riding and biking are available and for the more traditional sportsman there are dozens of golf courses, tennis courts and swimming pools.

Children also have a wide variety of things to do in safe, family-friendly environments. You will find all of the usual team sports like little league baseball, pewee league football, and soccer are all available. Cub Scout troops, explorer camps, and digital camps are also available if you’re looking for more educational activities.

A lot of these activities have been known to bring families together, especially in today’s world. With all of the technology to distract us from the world around us it may be time to finally unplug from the grid and get back to the natural world. The experiences you and your family will have are memories that will last a lifetime.

How to Take Control of Your Move

2010-07-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Everyone is familiar with the process of moving, but no matter how often we move there is still a sense of panic every time we are confronted with even the slightest setback. American Van Lines is the moving company Raleigh residents have come to know and trust and we are here to offer some great advice about dealing with some of the most common problems that you may encounter while moving. Our Raleigh movers have heard countless horror stories of disastrous moves.

This blog will talk about the precautions to take when searching for a moving company and some initial actions that can be taken if your home or apartment is not in the condition it was promised to be in by the seller or landlord.

Concerning moving companies, we have heard stories about everything from damaged furniture, last minute moving fees, deceptive moving companies and entire truckloads of belongings that were never delivered. Our hope is that you have not been turned off by the idea of using a moving company because of past dealings.

The first thing to consider is doing your homework. You should try and find out as much as you can about a moving company before hiring them. It may take a little work but it’s worth it considering the alternative. Find out what movers your friends used or if they have ever dealt with the moving companies that you are researching and what their quality of service was.

Once you begin to narrow your list of companies, you should call the remaining companies to find out about their prices, moving procedures and moving insurance. You should also find out if they offer any type of storage options and be sure to get the details of what is offered with every storage unit. Asking these simple questions will help you make an informed decision. If you take your time to carefully choose a qualified moving company you can avoid a lot of stress.

There are times when some aspects of your move will go perfectly but others just go horribly wrong. There is always a possibility that you may get successfully moved, yet your house is not in the livable conditions you were promised. You should know your rights if something like this ever occurs. If you already made a deposit or any type of payment you should consider postponing the move until these matters are resolved. Staying there for even one night may be seen as an acceptance of current conditions. Take pictures of everything that needs to be changed and be sure to record the date that pictures were taken in order to protect yourself legally. Most cameras have preset date stamps that will appear on photos.

Once the landlord or seller see’s that you have built a reasonable case you should not have any problem getting your money back. You should also find out about getting payment for any temporary housing or any expenses incurred as a result of your house not being ready as promised. You should always remember that things happen; the only thing that matters is what you do once something doesn’t happen. Try to avoid panicking and deal with the situation accordingly.

Unseen Toxins

2010-07-02T15:31:00.000-07:00

Every home owner should be aware of the presence of toxic chemicals in their homes but some toxins are a lot harder to indentify than others. Most people will tell you that there is nothing toxic about their home and to the average person they will be right but a closer look will reveal that the average household harbors a number of toxins. Your premier Raleigh local moving company will provide tips on how to spot what could be considered toxic in your home.

According to Barry Jones author of Home, Sweet Toxic Home, pollutants can be classified as three major categories Airborne, Biological and toxic. The first can be found in the form of small airborne particles from lint, human skin or dust mites. Airborne pollutants can cause serious health problems because they can travel far into the body via the lungs. The best defense against these types of pollutants is to dust regularly preferably using magnetic dust cloths. Keeping a clean filter in air-conditioning units can reduce the amount of dust particles that are inhaled on a regular basis. Cleaning ceiling fans and light fixtures can also keep these toxins at bay.

Biological pollutants are common in most homes and come from mold, pet dander and rodents. These types of pollutants enter the body either though airborne particles, skin contact or ingestion from spoiled food. To avoid biological pollutants it would be wise to make sure there are no sources of moisture accumulating in your home to prevent mold buildup. Regularly grooming your pets can greatly reduce the amount of pet dander you inhale. Setting aside a designated area that your pet is not allowed into such as a bedroom will ensure that you are not inhaling animal dander the whole time you are at home. Physical contact with pets that are allowed to go in and out of the house should be followed by disinfecting and changing your clothes to avoid carrying bacteria into other parts of your home.

Rodents can be especially tricky to get rid of but it is recommended that you call a qualified professional to take care of your rodent problem. If you suspect that you have a rodent problem it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible to prevent further infestation. Rodent feces can be toxic once dried and become like dust which is later be inhaled and can cause a Hanta virus infection. This disease can present itself as a dry cough, nausea or shallow breathe and eventually could lead to respiratory failure. Even if your home is free of rodents you may still be at risk of this virus through canned foods or soft drinks that have not been properly cleaned before being shipped to your local retailer. All canned goods should be cleaned with soap and water before consumption.

The third category can be found in household cleaning products that produce long lasting chemicals. Most bathroom cleaning detergents contain chlorine that can become active when in contact with hot water during showers. New carpeting can also pose a threat because some glue used to secure carpet contains carcinogen benzene which can cause cancer. It is best to be familiar with the chemical properties of household cleaning products. The average home can contain a number of these pollutants but if you take the time to learn how to identify these threats you have no need to fear these unknown toxin.

Getting to Know Your Neighbors

2010-06-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

Some people are naturally outgoing and rarely have trouble making friends. On the other hand, some are more reserved and would never initiate a conversation with a total stranger. Many people believe that as adults we have no need to make new friends, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth especially in the case of a new neighborhood. Getting to know your neighbors helps to safeguard your community, making any unwanted visitors easily identifiable. Having and extra set of eyes when you’re not around would ensure your home and family are never alone.

As adults we tend to do activities involving coworkers, family, and old friends but rarely get the opportunity to interact with other adults. Kids usually find a common activity to make friends, but as grownups we rarely find the time. Your Raleigh local movers would suggest you do at-home activities that are out in the open. Doing yard work or working on your car are great ways to meet neighbors as they come home or leave for other activities. Spending time in your front yard will give your neighbors a chance to see who their new residents are.

If you don’t have any area outside of your home to spend time in, going to a public park will give you a chance to meet the people in your neighborhood as well. Another great way to meet your new neighbors is the direct approach. Go over to your neighbor’s home and introduce yourself. It’s not a guarantee that everyone will like you but at least you will know who to avoid in the future. If you have trouble talking to strangers it would be best to offer something practical like homemade cookies or potpourri to break the ice. Keep in mind that some people like their privacy so try not to overstep your boundaries and keep it brief. Once you have met at least some of your neighbors suggest a cocktail party to bring in those neighbors that you had not had the chance to meet. If you find that you’re pressed for time or are not up to introducing yourself a simple gesture will do.

The Perfect Home Theatre on a Budget

2010-06-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

If you have just moved into your new home and are done setting everything up to your liking you probably want to set up a room that the whole family could enjoy together. A home theatre is the one thing that everyone will agree on. A professional home theatre could cost up to $1,500,000 but no one wants to spend that kind of money on entertainment. Your premier Raleigh local moving companies has great tips on building a home theatre on a budget under $5,000.

The first thing to consider when building a home theatre is the room of your home it’s going to be built in. Lighting plays a major factor in the quality of your film viewing experience. A room with too many windows could dull the experience not to mention dull the picture quality of a film during the day.

Acoustics should also be carefully considered when choosing a theatre room. The way sound travels throughout a room could mean the difference between a theatre quality experience and just watching television with family and friends. Sound travels differently through different material so rooms with a lot of corners or loose panels should be avoided. Some furniture could have loose parts that vibrate when hit with high frequency sounds so try to use only the furniture necessary for the enhancement your home theatre experience. Carpeting is ideal for absorbing sound that would normally bounce around in a room. Thick drapes can give a room a cozy feel while also blocking sunlight in the daytime and help to reduce echoes in a room.

Once you have found the room that will become your home theatre it’s time to start shopping for the right equipment to deliver that movie quality experience. Audio cables and surround sound speakers look awful in a room especially if you have a lot of equipment. If you or someone you know has experience working with drywall you should run your audio cable through the walls. If you don’t have access to drywall expertise you can just run your cables underneath your carpeting using affordable clamps designed for home theatre construction.

Lighting is also crucial to your movie watching experience so a dimmer light system would be ideal for a home theatre but lamps with dimmer knobs work just as good. The type of furniture you use is also an important in to your movie watching experience.

Leather couches are a common choice and are considered the ultimate furniture for a home theatre but can be expensive and noisy during a movie. Couches made of cloth or any other fabrics are usually affordable, comfortable and most of all quiet during films.

The next step in building your ultimate home theatre is choosing the right screen to watch. Projection screens can be adjusted to fit the size of a room but lack the clarity of plasma displays. Most standard high definition television sets offer clearer pictures and weigh less than tube televisions. Your premier local movers recommend that you test out televisions before purchasing them, try asking the sales clerk to play movies with a lot of detail and action to test the resolution of the display. When you get in working order sitting down with the family and friends to watch theatre quality movies will be worth the work that you put in.

Energy Saver

2010-06-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

As a home owner you’re constantly trying to find ways to save money. Your premier Raleigh Movers is here to offer great tips to help you save on your next energy bill. With summer finally here you will be using a lot more electricity than you normally would. Your air-conditioner is working overtime and the kids are home from school so your refrigerator may be getting a bit of a workout.

If you feel that your air-conditioner is using more power than it should it may be because you are losing air somewhere in your home. The best thing to do in this kind of situation would be to find and seal any leaks in your home that may cause your air-conditioner to work harder than it should. Having your air-conditioning system checked out by a certified technician will ensure that your unit is running efficiently. If calling a technician is a not an option for you at this point, then there are leakage points that are common in most homes and ways to easily find them.

The wooden framing around your doorways and windows are usually leakage points in your home. The best way to deal with this type of leak would be to use commercial calking or to replace the framing altogether. Power receptacles are also prone to leaks. It is best to ensure that your electrical receptacles are installed properly and not cracked or worn around the edges. Fireplaces can also let a significant amount of air out of your home. Make sure that your fireplace is properly capped and sealed during the summer months. These common leakage points will not fix all of your problems but it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

Compact florescent bulbs can help reduce the amount of electricity you use on a monthly basis. These bulbs can cost $2 to $3 dollars and last around 10,000 hours and only use about 30 watts to generate 100 watts of light. You should try and replace every light fixture possible with florescent bulbs.

Your refrigerator should be set to about 35 degrees and the highest available setting for older refrigerators. Keeping a full refrigerator will help it keep cooler than and empty refrigerator. Cleaning the coils under or on the back of your refrigerator will greatly improve its performance. Don’t be tempted to participate in Americas favorite past time, of staring into an open refrigerator. Your refrigerator cannot maintain a set temperature with the door open and has to work twice as hard to reach the desired setting.

These tips should help you save money on your next power bill and keep you a little cooler for the summer.

Visit your Movers in Raleigh shortly for more money saving moving tips

The North Carolina Museum of Art

2010-06-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

Raleigh, North Carolina is known for more than its local charms. If you’re moving to Raleigh, then let our Raleigh local moving companies suggest taking in some of the city’s culture. Raleigh is home to the North Carolina Museum of Art.

This museum houses some of the most amazing art collections found anywhere in the United States. The North Carolina Museum of Art has over a million dollars in artwork. Everything from the European renaissance to the Italian and Baroque periods are on display. Egyptian and Greek sculptures and vase painting also make an appearance. American art from the 18th to the 20th centuries, Jewish ceremonial objects and African art are all here for you to enjoy.

The Museum is still building its collection with new art everyday and everything is on display in brightly lit enormous galleries. One of the most beautiful sculpture gardens is on display at the Museum of Art. A 164 acre field displays amazing sculptures made of everything from the usual plaster mold to wooden and rock sculptures. You can walk, ride a bicycle, walk your dog or just explore the surrounding park grounds and discover the most awe inspiring art work in the country. Once you’re settled into your new home you owe it to yourself to come out and see the North Carolina Museum of Art and discover the world’s culture.

Raleigh Wildlife and You

2010-06-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

Do you plan to move to Raleigh, North Carolina? If so American Van Lines premier Raleigh movers suggest that you get familiar with the wildlife in the area. Raleigh has a wide variety of wildlife that you may not be used to seeing in other states. Knowing how to deal with the wildlife that you encounter could mean the difference between witnessing the beauty of nature and the dangers of nature.

Animals can seem to always be in the wrong place in Raleigh but animals that cause road hazards, make noises at night and make a mess out of our garbage are commonplace. Being new to this type of environment may make it tempting to interact with these creatures. Animals no matter how cute and cuddly they seem are still animals. Some species do not stay to protect their young but do return to feed them so what may seem like a cub or nest in danger could end up being the way things naturally are.

Bears should be avoided whenever possible. Feeding bears will only cause them to keep coming back and you may not be so lucky when they return. Leaving garbage outside of your home will almost always result in bears and other wildlife coming to feed on your property. Bird feeders are another usual dining option for bears so it is usually not a good idea to feed the birds during spring season. Pet food can also attract bears. It’s best to clean up after a pet once you’re done feeding them to avoid leaving any scraps that may lure unwanted guests. Barbecue gills are also a prime target for bears to feed from and should be clean up immediately after an outing has ended.

Porches and attics can be home to all sorts of wildlife that could potentially be a hazard to your home. Rats and squirrels and rats will chew through your wiring if they are allowed to enter your home. Attics should be free of cracks and openings of any kind. An open space in you attic could attract rats, owls, bats, possums, raccoons and many other undesirable species.

Even if the animals don’t pose a direct treat they can still attract parasites and some animal droppings can actually become toxic. Decks, porches and patios are great for hanging out in the yard but if not properly cared for they can provide cozy living spaces for stray cats, snakes, squirrels, and raccoons.

How to Childproof Your New Home

2010-06-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

So here you are, a first time home owner, proud parent and you have just received the most amazing moving services from your Raleigh Movers freeing you up to do what ever you want. Your family has settled in, but you can’t help but feel like you’re forgetting something. Have you childproofed your home yet? If the answer is no, then according this may be a good a time to start securing your home so it’s safe for children of all ages to live in.

Electricity can be hazardous, but we live in a society that almost completely runs on electrical currents. Since we obviously cannot live without electricity the best thing to do is make sure your family is safe from its dangerous effects. Install outlet covers to prevent a potentially deadly mistake by making it impossible for a child to touch the current leads inside. Be careful when using appliances near water, if left unattended a child can make contact with both at the same time and the results could be disastrous.

Smoke detectors should be installed in every room and regularly checked for a fully charged power supply. Blinds with adjustable cords should be tied when not in use or cut shorter preferably out of the reach of children. Cupboards and refrigerators should have latches to prevent a child from being suffocated. When cooking use the burners farthest form the ledge and avoid leaving pots or pans with the handles reaching over the edge of the stove. Put away all appliances when they are not being used.

Children get hurt in the most unique ways so it would be a good idea to place bumpers on all of the sharp corners of the furniture in your home. All stairways should have safety gates that screw into the walls to deter children from trying to play on staircases. If you own a fire arm it should be securely locked and stored in a different place from the ammunition.

Kids will always find a way to eventually get around all of your safeguards so it’s best to update any safety measures every six months. A first aid kid and cell phones should always be on hand in case something does happen. Take the time to teach your children about household dangers so you’re not alone in trying to guarantee their safety.

Getting Rid of Unwanted Houseguests

2010-06-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

Moving is a big task that requires your undivided attention unless you’re using American Van Lines the best moving company Raleigh has to offer. After you have put a lot of work and time into completing your relocation the last thing you want to do is deal with an unwanted house guest. Some people are very vocal about who stays in their home and how long they can stay. If you’re a little less vocal then you may not be up for a large display of your dominance. Before things get out of hand it would be a good idea to discreetly get your unwanted guest to leave. When someone wants you gone the clues are usually easy to see. The problem with leaving clues is that they may not be as easy to ascertain as you may think.

Make a clear distinction between how you treat the usual house guest and someone who clearly has overstayed their welcome. To understand how to get rid of a house guest we have to understand why someone would stay past a reasonable length of time. The most obvious one is comfort. A person will stay anywhere that they feel comfortable. If you want someone gone, then don’t make it so easy to stay.

It’s easy to see the need for being a good host but a more drastic approach is recommended. Do things that you would never normally do, things that you know your guest hates more than anything. If you know that your guest hates pets it may be time to offer to watch a neighbors pet for a while. Does this person dislike loud music, if so then you may want to catch up on your piano lessons; you know the ones you never really took an interest in.

If annoyance doesn’t do the trick then you may want to limit access to the things that would be considered entertaining. Lock your computer when you’re not at home and choose a password that only you would know. Most people nowadays will loose their minds without access to the internet. Have your cable service temporarily suspended and observe how flipping through the same seven basic television channels can drive anyone loony.

No matter the person we all have one thing in common, you have to eat. If someone is over staying their welcome then it may not be a good idea to buy their favorite snacks or make their favorite foods. Eating things that you hate may motivate even the most stubborn person to find friendlier conditions.

If you have a problem being rude to people then it is a good idea to start having random work related or relationship problems that seem to put you in a bad mood, just be sure to reject any offers to talk about it. If none of these suggestions get the desired effect then it is time to swallow your pride and just ask them to leave so you can get back to finally enjoying your new home.

Back Yard Privacy

2010-06-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

If you just moved to Raleigh using American Van Lines premier movers in Raleigh then you probably have a bit of time on your hands. Our premier local movers recommend taking some time to set your home up for maximum privacy. You and your loved ones will be happy to have a space for personal time.

The most obvious option would be to put up a fence preferably one made out of material that is easy on the eyes. Fences prevent anyone from seeing into your yard. The right fence can make you feel more secure and add a cozy atmosphere to your patio or yard.

Another solution would be to plant an assortment of bushes and ferns. Plants provide both cover from your neighbors and help to keep your yard cool and protected from heavy wind and noise pollution. A pergola is another great way to add privacy to your yard. Pergolas provide both shade and atmosphere to your yard and as an added bonus it obstructs the view into your yard.

Simple privacy screens can give ample cover while providing protection from insects and surely make your deck a lot more enjoyable. During the winter months you’ll be relieved that your deck is protected from fall season leaves that usually make a mess on your deck.

Awnings can provide great privacy from second story windows while working as great shaded areas in the summer months. The best thing about most awnings is that most are retractable so they can be easily put up or taken down at your own leisure. Vines can be grown along chain-link or wooden fences or along the top of a pergola to provide shade and cover from the sun or curious passers by. If you already have a deck or patio another great way to provide cover is to hang fabric from the structures for an inexpensive answer to your privacy issues.

Natural Home Design

2010-06-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

Architecture is the one thing that people tend to ignore when finding a new place to live. People will spend years before moving into a house if the right conditions are not met. Even the ever elusive dream home can be rejected if it’s in the wrong neighborhood or if the price is not right. If you plan to move to Raleigh, North Carolina then American Van Lines, your premier movers in Raleigh wants you to look closer into the architecture of your next home.

Charles Holden not to be mistaken with the English architect is an experienced architect in Raleigh and has been creating architectural wonders for over fourteen years. The name of his company, Oxide Architecture is an expression of his art work - a combination of oxygen and expression of form. When Charles Holden designs a structure, he aims to reconnect man and nature while still creating an amazing home. His design style has a very natural feel allowing both comfort and functionality to be easily achieved.

The Hessini-Arandel residence is a 1960’s modern house that Holden made into a wonder of the new millennium. Using large framed windows that let in natural light, this architect turned an otherwise dark living space into a vivid room with an excellent view of the surrounding forests. Another one of his works is a historic house in trinity park Durham, NC that has been modernized while still retaining the existing look and feel by.

Making a Distinction between Commercial and Corporate Moving

2010-04-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

If your company is planning to relocate and you were asked to find a moving company to help you do so, then what you’re looking for are commercial movers. During your search, you may have discovered a number of new terms that can get confusing. While corporate moving may sound like it can apply to this situation, corporate relocations are actually a completely different kind of move.

Let’s clear things up…

Commercial moving is also referred to as business or office moving. This type of relocation refers to moving an entire business site. This includes, but is not limited to businesses, schools, libraries, government agencies and other commercial sites.

A corporate relocation, however applies to a company that is moving its worker’s from one location to another. So, in actuality a corporate relocation is actually a household move that is sponsored by a corporation.

Many moving companies specialize in one or both of these relocation services. I hope this information will make your search for office Raleigh movers, North Carolina less ambiguous.

Moving Has Made Me Who I Am

2010-04-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

I have been moving from city to city ever since I graduated high school. My grand mother always called me an adventurer so maybe that fueled my passion for travel. I left Raleigh and went to New York two days after graduation. The fast-pace living of New York life made me a mover and a shaker. New York gave me my edge and motivation to succeed.

From New York I went to Atlanta, GA and fell in love. I met my spouse in Atlanta at a poetry club. Atlanta awakened the artist in me. Everyone was so creative and thought outside the box. It was refreshing!

From Atlanta I moved to Tampa, FL. In Tampa I learned the ropes of corporate America. I honed my skills as an architect and eventually earned a managing position at my firm. Tampa taught me to be a professional.

My latest move was back home to good ol' Raleigh. You know what they say, there is no place like home. Raleigh is where my heart lies. Raleigh made me the adventurer that I am and encouraged me to see the world.

I've been back home for about a month now and I don't I'm moving again - at lease not any time soon. If I do decide to move, I will go with the Raleigh movers that relocated me and my husband here, American Van Lines - they were great!

Remember; don't be afraid to chase your dreams. Listen to your inner voice and follow your heart. You never know, you may be able to find the scattered pieces of yourself like I did.