Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 5

The Growth of Microgrids in the US

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In the past four years, the number of microgrids in the US has grown by 11%. These systems, often utilizing new infrastructure and clean energy sources, particularly benefit critical facilities connected to the primary grid. It’s important to mitigate the risks associated with conventional electrical grids while harnessing renewable energy. However, despite nearly 700 microgrids nationwide, they contribute less than 1% to US electricity.

Jim Matheson of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association notes that microgrids are three to ten times more expensive than standard grid electricity. Still, they offer significant reliability and resilience for specific sites. Schneider Electric, a major player in this field, has developed numerous microgrids in the US and abroad, including a significant project at Yokota Air Base in Japan. This microgrid, part of a $400 million investment, ensures the base’s energy resilience, especially in emergencies.

The Yokota microgrid can function independently (in “island mode”) or alongside the main grid, highlighting the importance of microgrids in providing backup and resilience. Yet, experts emphasize the need for broader infrastructure upgrades across the electric grid for enhanced protection against various threats. Former Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Neil Chatterjee points out that microgrids can minimize large-scale blackouts caused by cyberattacks or other disruptions.

In California, the vulnerability of the power grid led to the exploration of renewable energy solutions. For instance, the Miramar Base combines landfill methane gas and solar power, capable of supporting over 100 critical buildings for up to 14 days. In 2020, the base’s microgrid prevented blackouts in 2,000 San Diego homes during a utility grid overload. Similarly, remote microgrids in Alaska, some universities, and JFK Airport’s TWA Hotel operate independently, underscoring the versatility of microgrids in various settings.

Florida’s Babcock Ranch community, with nearly 7,000 residents, also embraces microgrid technology, mostly powered by solar energy. Babcock Ranch founder Sydney Kitson describes the community as a pioneer in solar battery facilities, serving as a testing ground for new technologies. Connected to Florida’s main grid, the community balances solar power with natural gas from Florida Power & Light, aspiring to increase its off-grid capabilities with advancements in battery technology.

Babcock Ranch’s resilience was proven during Hurricane Ian, where it sustained minimal damage, retaining power and water services throughout the storm. This underscores the potential of well-planned, resilient communities in coping with natural disasters.

The growing popularity of microgrids can be attributed to their ability to address pressing energy challenges, ranging from climate change mitigation to grid resilience and energy access. As our energy landscape continues to evolve, microgrids are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable, resilient, and decentralized future.

_____________

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor of Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

State Electric Co.

Protecting Your Solar Panels from Nesting Pigeons

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Investing in solar panels is an excellent step towards sustainable energy, but it comes with some challenges, particularly when birds and pigeons choose to nest beneath them. Understanding the problems caused by these unwelcome visitors is vital to keeping your solar panels and roof in quality condition. Whether a homeowner or a business owner, preventing your solar panels from becoming a haven for birds and pigeons is important. Front Range Pest can proactively help you preserve the functionality and integrity of your solar panels and roof, translating into cost savings and guaranteeing the well-being of those in your vicinity.

 Why Do Pigeons Like to Nest Under Rooftop Solar Panels?Birds and pigeons are drawn to nest beneath rooftop solar panels for several reasons:·         Protection/Shelter: The area under solar panels offers a safe and covered spot, sheltering them from harsh sunlight, and adverse weather conditions like rain, wind, or snow, and predators. ·         Warmth: As solar panels soak up sunlight, they emit heat. This retained warmth beneath the panels forms a perfect setting for birds and pigeons to nest and remain warm. ·         Seclusion: Typically, there is a slight gap between the solar panel and the roof, providing a peaceful nesting space for birds and pigeons, isolated from human activities and other disruptions. Damage Caused by Pigeons While Nesting Under Solar PanelsThe presence of birds and pigeons nesting under solar panels can lead to various types of damage, impacting not only the solar panels and roof but also posing potential health risks:·         Reduced Solar Panel Performance: The accumulation of bird droppings on the panels can obstruct sunlight, leading to decreased solar efficiency. ·         Roof and Panel Damage: Nesting can disrupt the normal water drainage and air circulation beneath the panels, resulting in water damage and potential overheating. This may cause long-term damage to both your roof and the solar panels. ·         Health Risks: Birds and pigeons are known carriers of diseases like Histoplasmosis, Salmonella, and E. coli, and can also host parasites such as bird mites. Their nests pose a health risk to you, your family, and your pets. ·         Higher Maintenance Needs: Regular cleaning and repairs are often necessary to keep your solar panels functioning properly and address pest-related issues. ·         Ongoing Costs: Consistent maintenance checks and cleanings are essential to maintain the integrity of your solar panels, which can lead to increased regular expenses.In addition, pigeons are loud. You will notice when they have begun to nest under your Solar Panels due to the noise that follows them. From scratching, scurrying, and chirping, your sleepless nights will begin. Pigeon Proofing Your Solar PanelsSolar panels are a significant long-term investment, making maintenance and optimal utilization crucial. Bird-proofing involves setting up a barrier around the edges of your solar panels to block pigeons and birds from accessing the area underneath. Once these birds cannot find refuge under your solar panels, they must seek shelter elsewhere. Thus, bird-proofing your solar panels emerges as an ideal and permanent solution to this problem. What Does Pigeon Proofing Services Include?·         Clearing out any present nests or pigeons from under the solar panels and the nearby vicinity, ensuring no birds remain trapped beneath the panels. ·         Thoroughly cleaning the solar panels and the general roof area by sanitizing the surfaces and eliminating bird droppings and nesting debris. ·         Implementing the pigeon-proofing solution you prefer. Available choices range from bird mesh wire or bird blockers, anti-roosting spikes, or a solar skirt (an aluminum edge fitting.)At Front Range Pest, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you address these concerns. We offer professional solar panel bird and pigeon-proofing services to keep your investment in tip-top shape. To schedule an inspection or learn more about our services, contact us today. Are pigeons nesting under your solar panels? Call Front Range Pest (970) 889-0425 for humane removal and prevention. ______________Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Front Range Pest

Kitchen Design Trends for 2024

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Overall, kitchens are adopting a cozier feel, a shift from sterile all-white designs to warmer wood cabinetry. Kitchen islands are growing in size and utility, resembling dinner tables with more welcoming L-shaped seating arrangements for better interaction. While blue remains a favored kitchen color, various shades of green are on the rise. Beyond traditional boundaries, kitchens are expanding their presence with refrigerator drawers in diverse spaces like bathrooms and home offices, accommodating beauty products and more. Additionally, home bars are making a resurgence as social gatherings return post-pandemic.

What does the kitchen of the year look like? We list the top twelve growing design trends of 2024 from top designers and the most recent report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association. 1. Outdoor dining with window walls – like restaurants with a garage door that opens for al fresco dining, homes are following suit to bring the outdoors inside with oversized windows and glass walls. 2. Kitchens that mimic the great outdoors – being one with nature is all the rage nowadays. Homeowners are layering neutral colors like warm whites, earthy greens, and textured wood tones to give a harmonious feeling in their kitchen. 3. Green is a recurring theme – designers agree that all shades of green, from deep saturated tones to soft, muted shades, are making a comeback on everything, including the walls, tiles, and cabinetry.   4. Building a more sustainable kitchen – people are utilizing more eco-friendly trends such as built-in recycling stations and energy-efficient appliances.  5. A large kitchen island – kitchen islands are becoming a more significant design focus, sometimes even doubling up (as big as 20 ft.) as opposed to two smaller ones.  6. Stainless steel refrigerators that are fingerprint-proof – new fridges incorporate smudge-proof finishes and LED lighting to keep your appliance more efficiently illuminated and clean.  7. Developing a ‘soft modern’ aesthetic – blending modern designs with classic elements such as a high gloss finish on cabinetry offsetting a matte wood finish for open shelving. Fusing European-inspired designs with contemporary ones will promote this aesthetically pleasing kitchen. 8. In-room coffee and cocktail bar – expand the kitchen into your bedroom, etc., with hotel-like amenities such as a built-in nook for a morning cup of coffee or a well-earned nightcap. Installing a refrigerated drawer in the home office to hold drinks and snacks or in the master bathroom to keep toiletries.  9. Beverage station – carving out a beverage station within your kitchen will become the #1 modification, according to design experts. People want a dedicated area to pour wine and make coffee.  10. Quartz countertops are the preferred choice – why? Because quartz countertops are low maintenance, highly durable, and easy to clean. Following in popularity is quartzite, then granite. 11. Minimalism is key – more people are leaning towards a functioning kitchen with a minimalist look, often with flat-panel designs, stain-resistant materials such as quartz, and plenty of storage space. Countertops that seamlessly extend into the backsplash are a plus, too. 12. Gold kitchen faucets are becoming more popular – it’s predicted that gold may surpass stainless steel and black finishes in 2024. Bronze and copper finishes for lighting fixtures will be popular as well.  Are you planning a kitchen upgrade for 2024? Then, contact us or call (810) 923-1123 for a free estimate. _________JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Jason Foldenauer Construction

How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia and Frostbite

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

For those who spend time outdoors in the winter, either for work or leisure, it’s crucial to understand how the cold impacts your body. Cool temperatures increase the risk of encountering serious health issues like hypothermia and frostbite. Be sure to safeguard yourself against cold conditions, which can rapidly escalate into emergencies, posing significant threats to life and limb.

How Cold Weather Affects You

When exposed to cold weather or immersed in cold water, your body experiences several changes to conserve heat, particularly around vital organs. Freezing conditions, combined with factors like wind, rain, and sweat, can significantly reduce your skin temperature and overall body heat. Contact with cold surfaces and even breathing will further drop your body’s temperature, so it’s vital to seek warm shelter.   

To maintain its core temperature, your body restricts blood flow to extremities such as your face, arms, hands, legs, and feet, making these areas more susceptible to frostbite. Additionally, a slight drop in core body temperature can lead to hypothermia, impacting the functioning of your brain and body. If hypothermia becomes severe, it can be life-threatening.

How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather

  • Be aware of the temperature and wind chill. Take note of the highs and lows of the day, dress appropriately, and be prepared with extra clothing, etc., in case you’re held up.
  • Wear proper clothing that covers all your skin, and dress in layers. Layering your attire and wearing the right shoes/boots, hat, scarf, and gloves will offer you the best protection. The inner clothing layer should wick sweat away from the skin. The middle layer should insulate and keep heat in, while the outer ‘breathable’ layer should repel wind, snow, and rain.
  • Avoid staying in the cold too long, take breaks regularly, and don’t let any body part get exposed to the cold. Stay active to maintain body heat.
  • Drink plenty of warm fluids (tea, water, etc.), but avoid caffeine and alcohol, which will dehydrate you.  
  • If signs of hypothermia or frostbite emerge, immediately seek shelter from the cold.

How to Identify and Treat Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F, and hypothermia sets in when your body temperature drops below 95°F. This condition can affect the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well, which makes hypothermia particularly dangerous because the person may not realize it’s happening and won’t be able to take appropriate actions.

The primary objectives of first aid are to reestablish a normal body temperature and provide care for any related issues until emergency medical services (EMS) personnel arrive.

What Are the Signs of Hypothermia?

  • Shivering
  • Numbness or weakness
  • Glassy stare
  • Lethargy or impaired judgment
  • Loss of consciousness

What Should You Do if Someone Has Hypothermia?

  • Call 9-1-1.
  • Gently move the person to a warm place.
  • Monitor their breathing.
  • Give rescue breathing and CPR if needed.
  • Take off any wet clothing and ensure they are dry.
  • Gradually warm the person by wrapping them in blankets or dressing them in dry clothing.
  • Do not warm the person too quickly by placing them in warm water. Instead, use hot water bottles or chemical hot packs wrapped in a towel or blanket before applying.
  • Warm the person’s core first (trunk, abdomen), not the extremities (hands, feet).

How to Identify and Treat Frostbite

Frostbite is a cold-related injury that occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to exposure to extremely cold temperatures. It most commonly affects body parts that are farther from the heart and more exposed, such as the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.

What Are the Signs of Frostbite?

  • A cold and prickly feeling in the affected area.
  • Numbness or a lack of feeling in the affected area.
  • Skin that appears waxy, is cold to the touch, or is discolored (flushed, white or gray, yellow or blue)
  • Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness.

What Should You Do if Someone Has Frostbite?

  • Move the person to a warm place.
  • Handle the area gently; never rub the affected area.
  • Warm the affected area gently by soaking it in lukewarm water (100–105 degrees F) until it appears red and feels warm.
  • Loosely bandage the area with dry, sterile dressings.
  • If the person’s fingers or toes are frostbitten, place dry, sterile gauze between them to separate them.
  • Avoid breaking any blisters.
  • Do not allow the affected area to refreeze.
  • Seek professional medical care as soon as possible.

____________

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for your prepping and survival needs. We are your trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you need it later.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Wolf Survival Gear

Dealing with Pack Rats in Colorado: Key Signs and Prevention

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Pack rats, also known as wood rats, are a prevalent nuisance in Colorado. Often inhabiting wild areas, they tend to invade homes for food and shelter. They are notorious for collecting items from houses to build nests in hidden spots like walls and attics (hence the name). Contact a professional pest control agency ASAP if you suspect a rodent infestation, as the damage they cause can be extensive and expensive to fix.

Pack Rats: The Hoarders of the Rodent World

Pack Rats or wood rats are similar to standard house mice, except they are slightly bigger with a bushier tail. They are known for their peculiar habit of collecting various objects to build their nests, which, over time, may become problematic as the gathered materials can block vents, damage insulation, and create fire hazards. You will notice that small household items disappear as they are attracted to shiny objects. Pack rats often inhabit rocky areas, but like mice, they can invade homes, garages, and outbuildings in search of warm shelter. These nocturnal creatures are particularly active during the fall and winter, seeking refuge from the colder temperatures.

Recognizing Pack Rat Infestations

Nest Locations: Pack rats typically build their nests in secure, warm places like attics and walls, often under eaves, porches, or decks. They can enter homes through existing holes made by other animals. Finding nests in these areas is a strong indicator of an infestation.

Noises in Walls: Hearing rustling sounds inside your walls can signify pack rats. These noises often indicate their presence as they seek safety from predators indoors. Since they can chew through materials like wiring and insulation, it’s important to address this early to prevent severe damage.

Rat Droppings: Discovering mouse feces is another sign of an invasion. These droppings are unsanitary and can pose health risks due to the diseases these pests can carry.

Management and Preventive Measures

Effective management of mice and pack rats involves a combination of prevention, exclusion, and removal. Homeowners should focus on sealing cracks and openings in the home’s exterior, reducing clutter, and keeping food in sealed containers. Regular inspection of attics, basements, and storage areas is also vital to detect any early signs of rodent activity.

For pack rats, reducing outdoor debris and clutter can make your property less attractive to them. Since they are attracted to shiny objects, be mindful of leaving small, reflective items outside. Be sure to seal off potential entry points, such as gaps around pipes, windows, doors, and siding boards. Regular inspection and maintenance can help identify and block these access points early. Homeowners should be vigilant about maintaining cleanliness and reducing clutter to deter these unwelcome guests.

If you suspect a rodent problem in your Colorado home, contact Front Range Pest for prompt removal and cleanup services. We deal with infestations of all sizes safely and effectively. Remember, the sooner you address the issue, the easier it is to prevent significant damage and health hazards.

Suspect a rodent intrusion? Contact Front Range Pest today for prompt assistance! 

_________

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Front Range Pest

Zoning for DC Fast EV Chargers in Communities

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Local land-use choices play a crucial role in successfully and efficiently establishing a comprehensive network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers for public use. Additionally, the traditional approach to zoning for gas stations is no longer entirely applicable to the evolving world of vehicle fueling/powering infrastructure.

The rapid adoption of EVs has brought the need for adequate charging infrastructure. However, one of the critical challenges facing many communities is the zoning for EV chargers, especially Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFC). As the demand for EVs continues to rise, local governments and city planners must proactively adapt their zoning regulations to support this green evolution.

Zoning for EV chargers, particularly DCFCs, involves several factors. First, these chargers require strategic placement to be effective. Ideally, they should be located in areas easily accessible to drivers, such as near highways, shopping centers, and densely populated residential areas. This ensures EV owners can conveniently charge their vehicles without going significantly out of their way. However, this placement must be balanced with the potential impact on the local grid, as DCFCs draw a considerable amount of power. Therefore, collaboration with utility companies is essential to ensure the local electrical grid can support these high-powered chargers.

Zoning regulations must be updated to accommodate the physical requirements of EV charging stations. This includes considering the size and number of parking spaces required, as well as the additional infrastructure like transformers and electrical panels. Local governments should also consider aesthetic concerns, blending installations within the community’s architectural and landscape design.

Zoning for EVs

These four factors are essential in guiding how EV charging stations are integrated into zoning regulations. When incorporating EV charging infrastructure into local zoning codes, it’s crucial to consider these aspects from a land-use viewpoint: 

  • Duration of Use: Determine whether the chargers are intended for brief or extended usage periods.
  • Quantity at a Location: Assess the number of chargers installed at a single site.
  • Accessibility: Consider whether the chargers are available to the public or restricted to certain groups like customers, employees, or residents.
  • Payment Responsibility: Identify who bears the cost of charging – the user or the site’s owner/operator.

How Does Zoning Promote the Expansion of EV Infrastructure?

In recent years, there have been two important changes occurring with zoning. Zoning definitions are getting more precise by differentiating installations that are EV capable or ready from those with a Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charging station. Second, zoning codes require higher percentages of parking spaces to be set aside for charging. Analysis suggests that communities incorporate the following practices in their zoning codes:

  • Clearly categorize the different types of EV charger applications.
  • Specifically, allows for accessory functions.
  • Establish parking design or performance criteria.
  • Formulate a standard for mixed-use development.

The zoning for public EV charging infrastructure is complex but essential for communities. It requires a thoughtful approach that balances the needs of EV drivers with the capabilities of the local infrastructure and the aesthetic and functional requirements of the community. As more people turn to electric vehicles, the cities that plan ahead and adapt their zoning regulations will be best positioned to lead in this new era of transportation.

Inquiring about EV charger infrastructure for your home or business? Contact State Electric Company for a Free Quote today!

_____________

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor of Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

State Electric Co.

Michigan’s 1st 3D Printed Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Detroit is close to completing Michigan’s first 3D-printed home, a significant milestone in the state’s housing industry. The residence, located in Detroit’s Islandview neighborhood, is a two-bedroom, one-bath single-family house with a green stucco exterior, spanning 1,000 square feet. Developed by the nonprofit Citizen Robotics, this project represents a significant step forward in construction technology, aiming to be more cost-effective and energy efficient.

This innovative home was constructed using a refurbished robot from the auto industry to print its exterior walls and other parts. The process involves layering a special mortar to create the structure, showcasing a shift towards digital and sustainable construction methods. The 3D printing technique is praised for its efficiency, requiring fewer people, taking less time, and being less expensive than traditional construction methods. It also boasts greater strength and resilience against major storms.

Despite the advanced technology, the cost of this 3D-printed home, set to be sold for $224,500, is higher than the median home price in Detroit. However, long-term savings are expected for homeowners through reduced energy and maintenance costs. The project, funded and supported by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, is seen as a pilot for future developments.

The broader 3D home printing industry in the U.S. is gaining traction, with numerous projects nationwide, including a 100-home development in Texas. This method addresses challenges like material costs, labor shortages, and environmental concerns in traditional construction. As the industry evolves, it is expected to become more accessible and cost-effective, potentially reshaping the future of home building. Citizen Robotics and other innovators in this field are optimistic about the potential of 3D-printed homes to provide sustainable, affordable housing solutions.

______________

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Jason Foldenauer Construction

WSU Veterinary Hospital Installs a New Linear Accelerator to Fight Cancer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Washington State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital has significantly advanced its cancer treatment capabilities by installing a new linear accelerator (LINAC). This state-of-the-art technology is set to revolutionize the way cancer is treated in pets, offering advanced radiation therapy that can not only prolong lives but potentially cure various cancers.

Dr. Janean Fidel, a veterinary oncologist at WSU, emphasized the transformative potential of this machine in treating a wide range of cancers, including mast cell tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, and cancers affecting the oral, nasal, and brain regions. The new LINAC stands out for its precision in targeting cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, a critical aspect of effective cancer treatment.

The installation of this LINAC, which involved fundraising efforts since 2018 amounting to over $1 million, replaces an older model acquired in 2010. Despite serving over 3,500 animals, the previous machine was plagued with frequent malfunctions. The new LINAC is a technological leap forward, offering enhanced accuracy, speed, and safety. It boasts submillimeter targeting accuracy and high dose rate delivery, greatly improving treatment outcomes by reducing unnecessary radiation exposure to healthy tissue and shortening treatment duration.

A notable feature of the new LINAC is its onboard imaging system, allowing operators to precisely locate tumors just before treatment, ensuring accurate alignment with the radiation beam. This system is a significant upgrade over older models that relied on film for imaging, which was less efficient and offered lower image quality.

The WSU oncology team has undergone extensive training to utilize this advanced machine. Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth, the chief medical officer of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, expressed gratitude to the donors who acquired this technology. This new equipment is expected to provide exceptional cancer treatment for pets, a rare service in the region.

Reference the original article at WSU.edu/news here.

Need linear accelerator parts or service? Contact RadParts today!

RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

RadParts

Unlocking the Benefits: How a Water Softener Can Help

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you’ve ever dealt with hard water issues in your home, you may have heard about the magic solution known as a water softener. But what exactly does a water softener do, and why is it essential for households dealing with hard water? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of water softeners, exploring their function, benefits, and the difference they can make in your daily life.

Understanding Hard Water and the Effects of Iron and Manganese

Hard water contains high concentrations of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium ions. These minerals are naturally present in groundwater and can create household problems when they accumulate in your plumbing and appliances.

Hard water-related issues encompass the corrosion and scaling within pipes, pervasive staining in showers, bathtubs, and sinks, and your water heater’s premature wear and tear. Scale build-up inside water heaters can insulate the temperature sensor within the tank, causing them to work harder to reach the desired temperature. Iron and manganese in water can also lead to unsightly rusty or black/brown staining and corrosion within the home.

What Does a Water Softener Do?

A water softener is a household appliance designed to combat the adverse effects of hard water. It operates using an ion exchange process, which involves removing calcium and magnesium ions from the water and replacing them with sodium or potassium ions.

A water softener proves highly efficient in eliminating the presence of hard water minerals, dissolved iron, and manganese in private wells that supply homes throughout Michigan. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not established specific limits for water hardness, these minerals, namely magnesium and calcium, can significantly compromise the quality of your home’s water. The EPA has set maximum allowable levels for iron and manganese as secondary contaminants at 0.3 and 0.05 parts per million, respectively. Although these concentrations seem minute, their impact can be quite substantial.

When addressing elevated levels of hard water minerals, iron, or manganese in your well water, the recommended solution is water softening.

What Does a Water Softener Remove?

A water softener effectively eliminates dissolved forms of iron, manganese, and hard water minerals. A cartridge filter with an appropriate micron rating becomes necessary to address particulate iron or manganese. Depending on the specific water conditions, this may involve using a series of filters with varying micron ratings to tackle higher levels of these contaminants in the water. A water treatment professional can best determine the suitable micron rating and filter style based on water test results and other relevant indicators.

How Does a Water Softener Work?

  • Ion Exchange: Water enters the water softener tank, flowing through a resin bed made of tiny resin beads. These beads are negatively charged, attracting positively charged calcium and magnesium ions.
  • Removal of Hardness Minerals: As the water passes through the resin bed, the calcium and magnesium ions bind to the resin beads, effectively removing them from the water.
  • Regeneration: Over time, the resin beads become saturated with hard minerals. The water softener flushes a brine solution (a saltwater mixture) through the resin tank to regenerate the resin and continue the softening process. This brine solution displaces the calcium and magnesium ions and recharges the resin beads with sodium or potassium ions.
  • Softened Water: The treated water, now free of calcium and magnesium ions, exits the softener and flows into your home’s plumbing system. This softened water is less likely to cause scale buildup, soap scum, or other hard water-related problems.

The Benefits of Using a Water Softener

There are many benefits to using a water softener, the primary being scale prevention. A softener prevents the accumulation of scale deposits in your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, which can extend the life of your plumbing system and appliances. With reduced scale buildup, your water heater and other devices will use less energy, potentially saving costs. Softened water is also gentler on your skin and hair, leaving you feeling cleaner and reducing dryness and irritation. It allows soap to lather more efficiently, reducing the amount of soap and detergent needed for cleaning and laundry.

A water softener is a valuable addition to any home or office facing challenging water issues. It’s a simple yet effective solution that can make a noticeable difference in the quality of your water. Consider installing a water softener or conditioning system to enjoy the many benefits of clean, softened water.

Contact Reynolds Water Conditioning today to discuss water solutions for your home or office!

____________

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

Reynolds Water

Gifting Support to End Cancer

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Here at J&P, we are all too familiar with the heartache that comes from losing a loved one far too soon. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide. Ten million people die from cancer every year.

A donation to the American Cancer Society is more than a financial gift. It is a lifeline for the entire cancer community and one more step toward a future without cancer.

Because of generous, passionate donors, The American Cancer Society can improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through:

•           Providing essential patient support

•           Advocating for important issues like health equity and more affordable care for all

•           Funding breakthrough research that saves lives

If you, our loyal customers, are seeking a way to help an incredibly important cause, please join us in making a tax-deductible donation to the American Cancer Society and help us get one step closer to a future without cancer.

Donate to the American Cancer Society Here

The J&P Electrical team sincerely appreciates your support for this cause. We wish everyone a blessed and delightful holiday season filled with love and joy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

_______________

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance.  

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

J & P Electrical Company