2012年9月19日 星期三

Glucose Monitor Accuracy, How Much Do You Trust It?


Glucose monitor accuracy is not something diabetics want to lie awake thinking about. If you take insulin you rely on the accuracy of your monitor, checking your level before you take insulin so you know how much to inject.

Even type 2 diabetics who are not on insulin will test first thing in the morning as a fasting baseline and after exercise if they feel weak or dizzy. It is not comforting to find out that the international standards for diabetic meters allow for an up to 20% error rate.

The New York Times has an article, published July 18, 2009, that states a 16-year-old girl bought seven meters and took them home to be tested by her diabetic dad as a science project. The results on the meters varied by up to 75 points. That's disturbing.

The student's mother, who works for a senator, told him about the experiment results, and he wrote a letter to the FDA asking for an investigation. So there are rumblings that something might be done to force meter makers to raise their standards.

The meter companies' response was that it will make meters more expensive, and people won't buy them. It sounds a lot like the complaints car makers were giving when they were forced to make cars safer. What they should worry about is the lowered confidence their customers will have in their diabetic meters when the news spreads.

The companies that improve accuracy on their own will be the smart ones. There is one, the WaveSense meter; AgaMatrix is saying they have concentrated on glucose monitor accuracy and addressed many of the problems other meters have.

The Problems That Make Meters Inaccurate

Every meter has issues with medications, according to a company spokesperson. Things like aspirin, Tylenol, vitamin C and dialysis medications can mess with glucose monitor accuracy. Then there are the methods used by each meter to measure blood sugar, and the fact that the makers know it's okay to be off by up to 20%. It's the old argument of what's cost effective, and it cheapens their product.

The fact that meters can be so inaccurate exposes another problem. Many hospitals choose to save money on testing by using home meters to check blood sugar in patients. And some FDA officials are worried that this has already led to deaths in some high risk cases. A hospital should not be using home monitors because they are not accurate enough, they said.

It's Not Always the Meter's Fault

Beyond those problems lies another glucose monitor accuracy issue. Human error can make monitor readings unreliable. If you haven't been taught how to use your monitor correctly, or if you get in a hurry and skip steps you could get numbers that are wrong.

If you have alcohol on your skin it affects your readings. It's better to prepare your fingers by washing your hands with soap and drying them well before you test. And be sure to let your skin dry after you use alcohol wipes.

Then there are the problems caused by outdated or damaged test strips, using the wrong strips for a meter, and using a meter that was exposed to high heat or humidity or allowed to get dirty.

What You Can Do For Glucose Monitor Accuracy

First you can do some homework and find out which monitor really is best for you. I love that monitors can be free, but some are truly better than others. And while you're deciding which is best, look at the price of the test strips because that's what you'll be buying every month. A free monitor with high-priced test strips is not a bargain.

Keep your meter stored at room temperature and don't expose it to high heat, humidity or dust. All meters have cases, so store yours inside one. Next, if your meter has to be coded, check to make sure the number on the test strip vial matches the one on your display.

Wash your hands before handling test strips. Make sure the strip is inserted all the way, and the right way up, in your meter. Glucose monitor accuracy is only as good as the test strip you are using.

Don't use outdated test strips or strips that have been exposed to high heat or humidity. Store the test strips in the sealed container they came in. And apply enough blood for the test. You can't add more after the countdown starts.

If you use an alternate site like your arm for the blood test, be aware that the number will be a little different from your fingerstick, because the arm test lags behind a little. Your test site choice affects glucose monitoring accuracy. So if you think your blood sugar is lowering fast but the arm test isn't showing that, test again on your fingertip to be sure.

Remember, you have to change the batteries. Monitors will warn you about that usually, but if yours is acting up, check that first. If you still aren't confident about your glucose monitor accuracy, take the meter with you to the doctor's office and check a reading at the same time they take one so you can compare.

The hemoglobin A1C numbers are the best way to know how your blood sugars have been doing over the past couple of months, and when you compare your daily numbers to the A1C that will give you proof that your monitor is doing a pretty good job.

As long as you're aware that glucose monitoring is not a precise numbers game, you will depend on your symptoms and reactions as well as to your monitor to know whether you are hypo- or hyperglycemic.

Knowing how your body reacts to low blood sugar is important when you are taking insulin, and a glucose monitor you can have confidence in is not a luxury; it's a necessity.




Martha Zimmer invites you to visit her website and learn more about type 2 diabetes, its complications and how you can deal with them, as well as great tips for eating healthy that will make living with diabetes less painful.

Go to http://www.a-diabetic-life.com and find out what you can do to avoid many of the pitfalls of this life-changing condition, like paying for cures that don't work and spending money for things you could have gotten free. Martha has made the mistakes and done the research so you don't have to.





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Cleaning Up Flood Water Damage


Flood water damage causes more problems than other kinds of water damage. Unlike grey water from broken plumbing, that's relative sanitary, flood water is classified as black water, in the same category as sewage. Flood water also tends to spread through the entire floor of a house, not just one or two rooms. This article will give you some basic pointers for water damage clean up.

This first thing to do is clear the flooded rooms of any and all water damaged objects. This includes curtains, pictures on the wall, books, clothes, media devices, and anything else affected. Consider replacing as many of these items as possible, rather than trying to repair or restore them. This will be cheaper and quicker in the long run.

The next step is to remove any water that's still standing. If it's a lot of water, more than you can pick up with a mop, use a HEPA vacuum or some kind up pump to handle it. Any pump you use should not rely on the power supply in the house, since the house's wiring might suffer from water damage. Use a battery powered or water powered sump pump. A water power sump pump is ideal, since its suction mechanism gets its force by connecting to a garden hose faucet. These solutions will remove most of water, so that you'll be left with less than 1/8" of water to mop up.

Next, you want to dry the rooms with a set of high velocity air movers and a low temperature dehumidifier. Your goal is to get the humidity level to stay consistently under 50%, measured with a humidity meter. While the air movers and dehumidifier are running, it's a good idea to bring in a commercial grade air purifier as well, to eliminate any airborne microorganisms that will be circulating due to the air movers. Your goal with drying is not just to eliminate dampness, but more importantly, to prevent the growth of toxic mold and mildew. Once all of the room surfaces are dry, wash them down with a solution of 25% bleach-to-water, then wipe them down with clear water.

The final step is to address the ceiling, floor, and wall water damage. Water stains on the surfaces can't actually be removed, but they can be covered. Apply a layer of primer on the affected areas to kill the stains, then apply paint that matches the surrounding surface.

More important than taking care of the surfaces, however, is checking ceiling, floor, and wall cavities for water damage, and replacing any affected materials, such as subflooring, insulation or drywall. These cavities, being dark and humid, will breed toxic mold in as little as 48 hours if left untreated. This will be pretty labor intensive to do yourself, so it's recommended that you hire an IICRC certified specialist in Water Damage Repair.




For more extensive tips on flood damage clean up and remediation, check out this complete primer on Flood Water Damage.





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Pex Tubing and Pipe


Thermal insulation

Main purpose - discouraging thermal losses down. Heat should go up in the heat for pex tubing. Can run from any materials allowed in the building as a thermal insulating layer for use in the construction of gender.From whatever material is performed layer of insulation must meet the following condition:

Thermal resistance of insulation layer must be greater than the total pex tubing thermal resistance of the heating layers (including finishing coating, pex tubing ) with a maximum heat load of Radiant Floor Heating. The greater the heating load, the thicker layer of insulation.The higher the thermal resistance of the finishing coating, the thicker layer of insulation.

The most common insulation material in modern construction is Pex polystyrene. We recommend using Pex polystyrene density of not less than 35 kg/m3 (pex tubing). Pex Polystyrene lower density is not resistant to mechanical stress, is destroyed when not used carefully, and loses its mechanical and thermal insulating properties, especially against the backdrop of the ongoing civil engineering works is a long time from the end of the pipe assembly units pex tubing Radiant Floor Heating water to fill their headphones. Pex Polystyrene density of 50 kg/m3, as well as extrusion, is used in systems with high mechanical loads (auto centers, warehouse complexes with heavy loaders, heated roads, etc.).

Reinforcing fabric. Pex Rails

Reinforcing mesh step and the cell diameter of bar reinforcing mesh is selected on the basis of floor construction, based on the features of the premises (pex tubing ), its destination, loads, etc. In the standard design for easier installation used a grid, usually with a cell 150x150 mm, rod 4-5 mm. Falls on Pex polystyrene, is a real cause for the layout contours water Radiant Floor Heating. Pex Pipes are attached to the grid with plastic fasteners.

To give extra strength screed in some cases is double reinforcement: a second layer of reinforcing mesh is placed on the contours of water pipes Radiant Floor Heating. Pex Rails in Europe because of the large spread of type stacking "snake" is widely used mounting rails and clips, which are arranged on polystyrene.

Sometimes fixing reinforcing mesh and / or mounting rails used Pex U-shaped anchors. Pex pipe contours vschelkivaetsya mounting rails in the slots (pex tubing slots). In this case, apply one layer of reinforcement, are laid over the pipes.

Pex Damping tape

Damping tape is placed around the perimeter of the premises prior to pouring concrete. Serves compensating thermal expansion of concrete ties during heating. It is produced, usually polyethylene foam width of 100-120 mm and a thickness of 8-10 mm.

Pex Pipes

Water pipes contours Radiant Floor Heating stacked in accordance with the drawing (draft Water Radiant Floor Heating). Number of meters of pipe is documented and recorded in the table balancing reservoir, attached to the project. Based on the evidence of mounting structural engineer decides on the need to adjust the tuning (balancing) of the pex tubing table. As a rule, unlike the actual length of pipe from the project by up to 10%, the amendment balancing reservoir is not required.

Hydrotesting

Before filling the contours of water Radiant Floor Heating concrete is recommended to check the system for tightness. Checking the system is carried out in accordance with national building regulations. Typically, the system checks the pressure of 3.4 bar for 24 hours.

When filling Pex coolant system consistent opening and closing circuits. Obtain complete removal of air from Pex pipelines and equipment.

It is recommended to leave the system of Radiant Floor Heating under pressure on the entire course of the remaining civil engineering works (device couplers, mounting finishing coatings), periodically monitoring the level of pressure that, at any stage be sure that during the production of other works not leakproof system.

Concrete screed

Pouring concrete is carried out after mounting the contours of water Radiant Floor Heating and testing activities. The thickness of the screed must be at least 30mm above the pipe, mark the concrete recommended no less than the M-300 (V-22, 5). In special cases (big weight and / or thermal loads on the heating stove, etc.) thickness of concrete ties and brand designers calculated based on the characteristics of the object (in this case necessarily is a separate calculation of the heating panels). The minimum thickness of screed (30mm above the pipe) is attributable primarily to not-strength characteristics, and to achieve uniformity of temperature distribution on the surface of the heating panels.

When the thickness of screed over 150mm require separate calculations of the thermal regime of the Pex heating panel with the introduction of special correction factors.

For reference: the weight of 1 square meter of ties with the 50 mm thickness is 350-400 lb.

The greater the thickness of the tie the more time is required to display it on a stable heating regime from the moment of inclusion.

Thicker screed equals greater innertsion system. The lower the thermal conductivity of ties, the higher the required temperature of the coolant.

Compensatory joints If, in connection with the great extent of the heating panel, it is divided (every 15 meters) in parts of compensatory sutures, the tube, back-crossing seam is laid in a protective corrugated tube (300mm on the left and right of the seam extension). It is recommended to pack heating circuits intact within a compensatory land, ie expansion joints must cross only pressure and return piping circuit.

The system of warm water allows the use of any plasticizers in concrete. Widely used in modern construction has received a device with a plastic tie fibrils.

To accelerate the drying of the concrete slab, which usually takes about 3-4 weeks, and reach an acceptable level of relative humidity, you can connect the Radiant Floor Heating to heat source (including an interim scheme). Recommended coolant temperature in this case should not exceed 30 ° C. The practice of water systems, Radiant Floor Heating using mode "drying" has shown many examples of the shortening of construction, especially at sites with large areas.

Relative humidity of the concrete should not exceed 85%. In the case of laying parquet or other wooden cover, relative humidity must not exceed 60%. In any case, should follow the instructions of manufacturers and suppliers of materials and technology to comply with construction and production work. Thus, typically requires 2-4 weeks from the time of pouring concrete screed before laying finishing coating.




PexUniverse.com is the best place online to shop for your PEX Plumbing and Radiant Heating Supplies. We stock PEX Tubing, Radiant Manifolds, Heat Exchangers, Taco Pumps, Lux Thermostats and many other products.

PEX Tubing - http://www.pexuniverse.com/store/category/pex-tubing

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2012年9月18日 星期二

How to Get Rid of Household Mold


So, you've been in your new house for a few months already and are nearing the last of the boxes to unpack. You open the door to your cupboard to find the last of the boxes but are alarmed to discover a rather nasty and musty scent coming from somewhere. After a little searching you find it...mould.

There a good deal of varieties of mould but all of them tend to flourish in surroundings that contain moisture, this can come from humid air and anyplace that moisture can stay on such as carpets, cardboard boxes, stored fabrics, drywall, papers and so on. It may be that the area you live in is particularly prone to humid air for example certain climates or locations are clearly going to affect the humidity level of your home.

Mould can cause allergic reactions in some people and also trigger lung irritability in people who aren't normally allergic to these things. It can damage whatever it is attached to and creates an unpleasant smell which can be persistent and difficult to get rid of. It could be a symptom of a drainage problem inside your house or even an air moisture problem.

To combat mould first arm yourself with a mask and eye shield so that you can remove as much as you can physically without getting to heavy a dose of the spores whilst doing so. After removing as much as possible wash to area several times with first soap and water and then either a commercial mildew remover/cleaner and/or one gallon of water mixed with 1/4 of a cup of chlorine bleach.

Obviously depending upon the level of damage any damaged materials will have to be replaced and unless you solve the original moisture problem it will most likely need replacing again from further damage.

It may well be worth purchasing a humidity meter ($15) which if it shows a reading of more than 50 then you should really look into buying a dehumidifier. There are a wide range of home dehumidifiers available suitable for home use and they usually range from the $100 and upwards mark. Here are a few pointers to remember when selecting a dehumidifier: If you require a dehumidifier in more than one room then consider buying a whole house dehumidifier rather than a single room dehumidifier. It will do the job more efficiently and last longer than running several smaller dehumidifiers continuously which will incur more maintenance costs.

Also don't forget that if you will be running your dehumidifier in particularly cold places that it has an auto-switch off when it starts to freeze. If it doesn't have one then it will become damaged if you run it and it starts to freeze. Also check that the noise level is not too high in the shop before you make a purchase particularly if it is to be used near your bedroom.

Further more it may well be worth getting a trusted builder/contractor to take a look at the area to check for possible causes and remedies of the moisture problem. Also having a word with your family doctor about any allergic symptoms and further dangers it may pose should also be done in order to consider how seriously you need to take into account the mold problem.

Despite the cost of doing the above in the long run the value of your house and the health of your family should be your priority and taking a few simple steps such as buying a home dehumidifier would be well worthwhile in the long run.




DehumidifiersOnline.info provides FREE information, reviews, comparisons and advice regarding all aspects of dehumidifiers and there usage to prevent allergic reactions. Click Home Dehumidifiers now or Air Dehumidifier for free advice.





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Features to Get With Humidifiers


When you are ready to purchase a new humidifier, there are a lot of features and options to choose from. In order to ensure you are getting your money for humidifiers, look for the following features:

Humidity Meter - This is a function on humidifiers that measure the amount of humidity in the room and help the owner control how much humidity they want in the room itself. This can be digital or even a manual dial. Be sure that the humidity meter on humidifiers do not go above 50 percent. When there is too much moisture in the room you can run the risk of mildew or mold growth. You should not use humidifiers in extreme cold, especially when the temperature is below 20F.

Noise - Noise should always be something that is taken into consideration when you purchase humidifiers. If you are a light sleeper, you certainly do not want a humidifier that will keep you awake at night. Ultrasonic humidifiers are the quietest types of humidifiers on the market and usually a warm mist humidifier will be quieter than that of a warm mist one due to the use of fans.

Timer - High quality humidifiers should have timers that include an automatic shut off, variable speed setting, and a low water gauge.

The Extra Features - There are a lot of added features that can come with humidifiers, but only you can determine whether or not they are the right features for you. Some of those features are air purifiers, a dehumidifier option, sterilization options, UV Germ-Free humidifiers, and humidifiers that allow you to directly add water to the humidifier from the top.




Korilynn is an avid writer that enjoys informing consumers on a variety of topics. For more information regarding dehumidifiers, visit HumidifierLabs.com.





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Humidifier Buying Checklist


There are a few features that are essential to a useful humidifier while others can be completely optional. It really depends on the reason you are looking for a humidifier but this is a simple checklist covering some of the basics which you can customize to your needs.

1. Humidity meter - A unit that allows the user to choose a desired humidity setting is very convenient to have since it can self-regulate. A humidifier with an auto shutoff feature when the target level is reached helps prevent over humidification. Over humidification can cause mold and mildew. The recommended relative humidity level is usually around 30% to 50%.

2. Low Water Indicator - Some humidifiers will have indicator lights to alert the user of changes in particular operating conditions. A low water indicator helps remind the user to refill the water tank as necessary. It is a waste of energy to run the unit on an empty tank. In the event that nobody is around to notice the indicator lights, some units offer auto shutoff when the water tank is empty.

3. Speed Settings and Noise Control - Most top brands today are very quiet but that might not be enough for some people who are disturbed by background noise, especially when trying to sleep at night. There isn't much you can do about a loud unit but if it offers speed settings, lowering the speed can reduce the amount of noise produced.

4. Unit Size - It makes no sense to buy a small table top unit if the purpose is to increase the humidity of a room the size of a concert hall. On the same note, there can be negative repercussions to operating a large unit in a small space. Determine whether you need a unit for the entire house or for just a room.

Those four items really cover the basics anyone would need to make an educated humidifier purchase. There are extra features offered by some models such as air purification, sterilization, or dehumidification but dedicated units for these functions will usually do a better job at their particular function. Nonetheless, some people enjoy the convenience of having these functions built in.




Visit the Best Humidifier Filters website to read more about replacement humidifier filters and the different types of humidifiers.





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2012年9月17日 星期一

Carbon Monoxide Monitors - Do You Know the Facts About Carbon Monoxide Detection and Safety?


Do you think carbon monoxide monitors are all you need to keep you and your family safe? The best protection is knowledge, so read on to find out if you know what you need to know about carbon monoxide safety and detection.

Known as the 'silent killer, carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of the combustion of fuels such as natural gas, propane, kerosene and wood (yes, wood). CO has no taste and no smell...so no warning. If your appliances, furnace or fireplace is not vented properly, CO can accumulate in your home and lead to serious health problems.

Monitors alert you to increasing levels of CO, but there are a few other warning signs that you should know about. If your indoor air is stuffy or stale most of the time, your pilot lights won't stay on, you smell gas when you turn on your appliances or your vent pipe or chimney is covered in white, chalky residue, then you have a problem. There are health indications as well. If members of your family are experiencing flu-like symptoms, nausea, burning eyes, drowsiness or headaches frequently, you may have dangerous levels of CO.

For the best coverage, you should have multiple carbon monoxide monitors, at least one on each floor. But you need to know how to place them properly.

You are most vulnerable to CO poisoning when you are sleeping. We have all read news stories of families who didn't know they had a problem, and just never woke up. Make sure you have carbon monoxide monitors near all of the sleeping areas in your home, so that everyone will wake up when it goes off. If you have multiple bedrooms in one area, one monitor placed in proximity to all of them will suffice. You should also mount monitors close to other rooms that have gas powered appliances, or fireplaces.

Many people don't know that CO weighs the same as air, so will not sink. If anything, it will rise along with the warn air released from the source. Mount detectors at least at knee height or higher. Don't go too close to the ceiling though, as it may never rise that high. Keep them about 15 feet from appliances, and away from humid areas.

For the most accurate protection, choose carbon monoxide monitors that track and store low levels of CO. This way, you can monitor your history and spot problems before they become dangerous. As always, prevention and knowledge are your best protection.




carbon monoxide monitors are an important part of your home security and safety. Why not visit this carbon monoxide monitor monitor blog for more helpful information.





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Are You Caring For Orchids Properly Or Are You Doomed for Failure?


How many times have I heard "don't grow orchids they are so hard to keep alive". I've lost count! To me it's the lack of knowledge that breeds negativity and causes people to avoid something that they may well be very good at doing.

This is a shame because these wonderful flowers bring much joy to people who are caring for their orchids properly.

I want to go on and show you that perhaps caring for orchids isn't as mysterious and difficult as some people would have you think. In fact I'm more than confident that if you stick to a simple set of rules, that there is no reason why you can't become the next orchid expert.

So caring for orchids lets look at the basics that you need to be successful.

1. Light, different orchids require different types of light. Some prefer a shaded light whilst others are happy in a brighter light. In almost all cases however direct sunlight is not a good idea for their rather delicate nature.

2. Water, it's important not to over water when caring for orchids. Only water when the soil has dried. This is a general rule as some varieties will need more water than others, so it's essential that you understand the individual needs of each variety that you grow.

3. Temperature, orchids can stand quite diverse temperatures and again it is important to get to grips with what each variety thrives best on. As a general rule sixty degrees Fahrenheit at night

and up to around seventy in the day would be a fair temperature range to aim for.

4. Humidity, as a basic guide in dry conditions humidity is low and in cooler areas the humidity would be higher. We are looking to achieve something like sixty to eighty percent humidity. A simple way to achieve this is using a small flat container filled with a small amount of water and stones. You might like to get a humidity meter to measure how successful your efforts are.

So those are the basic needs of caring for orchids. I thoroughly recommend that you check out whats suitable for specific varieties though as they do have different requirements. I wish you well and much success in caring for orchids.




Lynne Ivatt is an orchid enthusiast learn the rest of her essential secrets to becoming an orchid growing expert at caring for orchids [http://www.completeorchidcare.com/basics-of-orchid-care.html] visit [http://www.completeorchidcare.com]





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Humidifiers and What to Look For


There are many different humidifier models to choose from and it is important to know what to look for when trying to decide on a unit that will fit your personal needs. Besides knowing the size of the unit to get and what type of humidifier filter it uses, there are other functions that are nice to have. While some of these may not be essential it probably will improve the user experience for most people.

The first thing to consider is the ease of use. How user friendly the humidifier is designed to be really matter especially when it is your first unit and the time comes around to replace the filter. Being easy to disassemble is important for quick cleaning and filter changing. Also, it is nice to have a large water tank so that it requires refills much less frequently.

Noise is always a factor with many of these appliances and new models today are becoming much better at noise control. Most good brands are relatively quiet and that can be important for someone who is bothered by too much background noise, or intends on using the unit at night. Typically, warm mist units are quieter than cool mist humidifiers.

A nice feature to have is the low water indicator lights or beeps. Some way of notifying the owner when the water tank is low on water is important because it can waste a lot of energy running on empty. An even better function is auto shut off whenever the water levels get too low.

Auto shut off can also apply to units that come with a humidity meter. This allows the user to set a target humidity level at which point the unit shuts off to avoid over humidification. Just as too little moisture can cause problems, over humidification can promote mold growth, dust mites, and mildew.




There are many other features that come with some humidifiers such as air purification and sterilization. However, all units use a humidifier filter which filters the air flowing through the unit. Remember the most important part of a humidifier is the replacement humidifier filters which needs to be changed regularly.





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Portable Air Conditioning Systems


Portable air conditioning UK is a superb type of air conditioner that you can have at your home. It is an excellent option to keep you happy and cool all the time. These are also great for people who do not want to install a permanent system at their home. 

Portable air conditioners come as fixed or do-it-yourself systems. These are meant to enhance air quality that makes you feel really better. It facilitates you to correct the temperature and humidity to enhance the air quality. The result is clean fresh air that also works towards preventing mold and fungus. Air conditioning is the best way to create a healthy environment in your home that is void of noise or draft. 

Portable air conditioning UK is a great way to save a lot of money. Here, you do not have to cool all your rooms. You just need to cool the room that you are in currently. It is not wise to spend money on something that you are not using. 

When purchasing Portable air conditioning UK, you have the following terrific options to choose from: 


 Dura craft AMD 8500E mobile air conditioner
 The Gree KYD 32 mobile air conditioner
 The mobile air conditioner KY 448 

The Dura Craft AMD 8500E mobile air conditioner is very powerful and able to cool a room of 20 meters squared with a power of 2.3 KWS to cool. It weighs just 31 kilograms and is on wheels. This makes it easy to move from one place to the other. It also comes with three speed fans of high, medium and low. There are multi directional air outlets to help cool the room really faster via a condensate removal in order to remove all the moisture in the conditioner. You can purchase this air conditioning for 300 pounds. 

Gree KYD 32 mobile air conditioner comes with a cooling power of about 3.2 KWS and can easily chill a room of almost 27 square meters. It comes with a water tank full indicator and a remote control. It weighs 45 kilograms. It has wheels that make it easy to move around. You can purchase this air conditioning system for 325 pounds.

The mobile air conditioner KY 448 costs about 480 pounds. It could be one of the best units you purchase. It has the power to cool a room of about 45 square meters and comes with a cooling power of 4.4 KWS.

Health benefits of Portable air conditioning UK: 


 It has lower concentrations of pollutants.
 It works towards ventilating, filtering and dehumidifying the room.
 It helps you get rid of humidity levels, day-to-day smoke, fungus, bacterial and viruses.
 It purifies and reduces the humidity and increases the quality of air

It is helpful for asthma and allergy sufferers as they can benefit from a clean and healthy environment.




We provide information on portable air conditioners UK and all your home cooling needs along with ductless air conditioning units. Visit our site for more information today!

By D. Karlson





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2012年9月16日 星期日

Filbert Sanka Bayi: Tanzania's Greatest Athlete and the Tracks to the World Records


INTRODUCTION

Legendary Kenyan athlete Hezekiah Kipchoge "Kip" Keino had in October 1968 under searing temperatures in the high-humidity and high-altitude Mexico City, and against medical advice because of his stomach ailments and weakness, won the Olympic gold medal in the 1500 meters (establishing a new Olympic record of 3min. 34.91sec.). Kip Keino even managed to bag the silver medal in the 5000 meters, finishing behind legendary Tunisian Mohamed Gammoudi, and ahead of the third Naftali Temu who had won the very first ever Olympic gold for Kenya by earlier winning in the 10000 meters. Keino had collapsed from weakness while competing in the 10000 meters, but would rise up and congratulate and hug his young team-mate at the finishing line.

A versatile, enthusiastic, patriotic, and determined middle- and long-distance runner, Kip Keino now in Munich in the summer of 1972 was now a 32 year-old veteran and an Olympian for a third consecutive time. But Keino, amidst the youthful competition, defied his age. In Mexico City, in 1968, only two of the 52 other competitors in the 1500m had been older than the then 28 year-old Keino. In Munich at age 32, Keino was very much the elderly statesman in the 1500m line-up. Furthermore, the astonishing Keino had only four months earlier started to embrace the 3000m steeplechase. And he did qualify in the steeplechase to compete for Kenya! Keino had taken the steeplechase seriously after he had found that the Olympic schedule would not allow him to compete in both the 1500m and the 5000m.

Compared to glorious Keino, a very unknown commodity in the person of Filbert Sanka Bayi was in Munich to represent another east African country--Tanzania. Keino was undoubtedly one of Bayi's foremost idols and inspirations. Keino remains the most immortal name among African track athletes!

Filbert Bayi, an athlete with an "afro-hairstyle" and boyish looks, had grown up near Arusha on a farm in Karutu within sight of Mount Kilimanjaro. Bayi left school at age 17 and migrated to the capital Dar-es-Salaam. Bayi's early running training was relatively crude. In the crowded, high-humidity capital, Bayi would pick out and sprint alongside a moving bus and rest when the bus was loading and unloading passengers---some form of interval training. In 1971 Bayi achieved a reasonably good 3min 52 seconds in the 1500m.

THE YEAR 1972

It was earlier in 1972, Bayi's personal bests and national wins in the 1500m (3:45) and steeplechase (8:55) qualified him to represent Tanzania at the Olympic Games in Munich.

In Munich, Filbert Bayi, a tall 19 year-old lightweight, a Tanzania airforce technician just so happened to be scheduled to compete in the same two events that Kip Keino was enrolled: the 1500m and the 3000m steeplechase. And while Keino was the elder, Filbert Bayi was one of two 19 year-olds that were youngest of the steeplechase competitors. There would only be four heats, and the top three finishers in each round would advance to the finals. The heats took place on September 1, 1972. Bayi was drawn in Heat One, the same heat that included Keino. Tapio Kantanen of Finland won (with an Olympic Record of 8:24.8), Keino was second, and the third finals' qualifier was Takaharu Koyama of Japan. Bayi was ninth with a time of 8:41.4 (a Tanzania national record) and therefore was out of the competition. Heat Two witnessed Kenya's legendary Benjamin Jipcho win; in Heat Three another Finn Pekka Paivarinta won. The Fourth Heat was won by another Kenyan legend Amos Biwott who had won the steeplechase Olympic gold four years earlier. Biwott's finish in 8:23.73 broke the Olympic record that had been established three heats ago! Notably, Biwott's steeplechase win in 1968 would be the beginning of the consecutive dominance of the steeplechase by Kenyans at the Olympics (apart from the 1976 and 1980 Games which Kenya boycotted) that has yet to be shattered!

The finals of the steeplechase were held on September 7th, 1972. Kip Keino would win in a new Olympic record of 8:23.64, followed by Benjamin "Ben" Wabura Jipcho (8:24.62), and the bronze was won by Tapio Kantanen (8:24.66). Amos Biwott came in sixth in a time of 8:33.48.

As for the 1500m, seven heats were established for Round One to take place on September 8th. The fastest four of each heat (plus two wild cards) would advance to the semi-finals. Filbert Bayi was eliminated when in Heat Two he finished sixth out of 8 competitors. But commendably, Bayi had again established another new national record--3:45.4. Keino won in Heat Four and was followed by Rod Dixon of New Zealand. Heat Six was won by Pekka Vasala of Finland; and Heat Seven was won by another Kenyan legend Mike Boit. The semi-finals were held on September 9th. Mike Boit, Keino, and Rod Dixon won in the three Heats. Ten that including big names in the competition such as Pekka Vasala and Brendan Foster (GBR) were set for the 1500m finals showdown. On September 10, Keino worked to psychologically wear down the competition, but in the final stretch of the 1500m he was outsprinted by 24 year-old Pekka Vasala (3:36.33) of Finland and settled for the silver (3:36.81). This was regarded by many as an upset. Rod Dixon of New Zealand claimed the bronze, Mike Boit was fourth, and Brendan Foster was fifth. What would become of Filbert Bayi?

The annual East and Central African Championships were next held in Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania, comfortably Bayi's territory. Bayi was not disappointing. On December 3rd, 1972, only 3 months after the Olympics, Bayi became a regional champion in the 1500m. He won in an impressive time of 3:38.9, not only a national record but a shaving off of more than 5 seconds from the national record he had established less than three months earlier at the Olympics. Two Kenyans Wilson Waigwa and D. Mungai won the silver and bronze, respectively. Bayi was fast gaining the confidence to face even more formidable competition.

THE YEAR 1973

Bayi would compete again with Keino at the second All-Africa Games which were held in Lagos in Nigeria in January 1973. It would be interesting. On January 11th in a 1500m heat that included both runners, a slow and relaxed run witnessed Bayi take second place in 3:48.32, following Olympian Shibrou Regassa (Ethiopia), then Kip Keino jogging in third. Keino was quick to say that he had relaxed and simply wanted to make it to the finals. Keino assured the public that the finals would be very different from what had happened in the Heat. But perhaps all those years of running and victory had exacted a toll on the aging veteran. On January 13th, Filbert Bayi taking the lead from the start, beat Keino, winning in the finals in a commendable time of 3:37.18, yet another Tanzania national record. Shibrou Regassa was third. Notably, Bayi had suffered a bout of malaria just before the Games. Henceforth Africans and the rest of the world started to take a second serious look at this new Tanzanian phenomenon that had emerged from nowhere. Kipchoge Keino would retire from competitive sports in 1974 as an ITA (International Track Association) professional, but he was impressed by Bayi to whom he offered congratulations and encouraging words.

A string of wins in international competition, followed in 1973. In Paris, near the end of May, Bayi won in the 1000m and established an Africa record of 2:19.5. Then in Boras in Sweden in early June, Bayi won the 1500m in a relaxed 3:45.5. The next day in Strangnas also in Sweden, Bayi won in the 1500m in 3:44.6. Again in Sweden, this time in Stockholm, Bayi won in quite a fast 3:37.9 on June 12th.

Then on the June 14th, Bayi changed gears and went for the 800m in Potsdam in the German Democratic Republic (GDR). Bayi was beaten by 2-time Olympian Dieter Fromm (GDR) into second place, but Bayi managed to establish a Tanzania record of 1:46.9.

A week later on June 21st, at the Kusocinski Memorial Meet held in Warsaw in Poland, Bayi won in the 1500m, finishing in 3:37.9. He then flew to Denmark to participate in the Aarhus Games. Here Bayi won the 1500m in 3:35.6, a new Tanzania record! Bayi was moving up fast and furiously! Danish Olympian Tom Hansen was second, and Olympian Rolf Gysin of Switzerland was third.

Only four days later, on June 28th at the World Games held in Helsinki in 1973, Bayi won the 1500m in what would be the world best time in the 1500m--3:34.6--yet another Tanzania record. This race was significant in that it included many notable international athletes that included Kenyans Mike Boit and Ben Jipcho, and Americans Steve Prefontaine and Dave Wottle, among others. Bayi would display to the world his signature way of running---take the lead with a fast pace right from the starting of the race!. Bayi had ran a blistering 53.6 in the first 400m, 1:51.6 at the 800m mark, and 2:52.2 at the 1200m mark! David Wottle (800m Olympic gold medallist) was second (3:36.2), and Ben Jipcho (Olympic silver medallist) was third (3:36.6).

The very next day, June 29th, this time in a track meet in Vasteras in Sweden, Bayi was again the victor in the 1500m, winning in 3:40.7.

Again in Sweden, this time at a meet in Stockholm, but this time running the slightly longer one mile, Bayi was challenged by an impressive field that included Jipcho and Emiel Puttemans. It was July 2nd, 1973. This time, Ben Jipcho won, beating Bayi into second place. But Bayi did establish a Tanzania mile record of 3:52.86. At hand to watch the much anticipated battle between 20 year-old Bayi and 30 year-old Jipcho for a possible world record in the mile, were 18120 spectators in Stockholm's Olympic Stadium. Near the end of the race, the leading Bayi started to tire and Jipcho (who had been 10 yards behind) passed Bayi about 75 yards before the finishing line. Jipcho, encouraged by a standing cheering audience, had established the fastest mile in Europe in 3:52.0, one of the three fastest times ever recorded in the world, and a new Kenya and African record. Bayi had set quite a trying pace: 400m--52.5, 800m--1:51.1, and 1200m-2:52.2.

Only three days later, July 5th at the Oslo International, Bayi true to form, beat an impressive field. He won in the 1500m in an impressive 3:37.6. On the 19th of July, Bayi was in Tunis to compete in the African Youth Festival Championships. Bayi won in the 1500m in 3:45.3. Second place was captured by Suleiman Nyambui, another Tanzanian who is only a couple of months older than Bayi. Nyambui would continue to be one of Bayi's track rivals and he would gradually become a national sports icon. On July 24th at the Bislett Games held in Oslo, this time in the 800m, Bayi was beaten into second place by 20 year-old John George Walker of New Zealand--another of Bayi's more enduring historical track rivals! Walker won in 1:46.3. Still, Bayi's time of 1:46.7 was a new Tanzania record.

The next day, July 25th, Bayi was at a track meet in Stockholm. He won in the 1500m, finishing in a good time of 3:38.46. Soon afterwards, on August 4th, Filbert Bayi was ready to run the 1500m at the Africa vs. USA Meet that was taking place in Dakar in Senegal. This time Bayi was beaten into second place by his older and more experienced rival Ben Jipcho. But Bayi's time of 3:37.85 was impressive. Twelve days later, at the Latin America vs. Africa Meet held in Guadalajara in Mexico on August 16th, Bayi achieved first place in the 1500m in a time of 3:40.6. There followed a relatively long interval, until Bayi competed in Nairobi. In the 1500m, Bayi started off very fast, 52.0 in the first 400m, 1:52.0 at the 800m mark. But the abysmally high pace likely cost Bayi the race. He was beaten into second place by another Kenyan legend John Kipkurgat. The then 29 year-old Kipkurgat is mostly renowned for having competed in the 800m.

THE YEAR 1974

Nearly exactly a year after Bayi, in beating Kip Keino, had won in the 1500m in Lagos at the All-Africa Games, the very busy athlete was ready to meet the impressive middle-distance line-up at the Commonwealth of Nations Games held in Christchurch in New Zealand. Bayi would compete in the 800m followed by the 1500m.

On January 19th of 1974, about a week prior to the Commonwealth Games, Filbert Bayi was beaten into second place in the 800m by Kenyan Olympic bronze medallist Mike Boit. Nevertheless, Bayi was impressive in his setting of a new Tanzania record--1:46.0.

In Heat One of the actual Commonwealth Games, Bayi won in the 800m in 1:47.09. This was on January 27th 1974. The winners of the other three heats, respectively, were familiar middle distance giants: John Kipkurgat, John Walker, and Mike Boit. The top four finishers of each heat would be placed among the two semi-final rounds to be held later in the day. Bayi was placed in the second semi-final. In Semi-Final One, the top four finishers were advanced to the finals and they were John Kipkurgat, Andy Carter (England), Daniel Omwanza (Kenya), and Phil Lewis (Wales). Semi-Final Two witnessed Bayi (1:46.56) advance to the finals although he was beaten into fourth place, perhaps him relaxing and simply contented with qualifying for the final round. Mike Boit won in this semi-final, followed by John Walker, then John Hooker (Australia).

In the finals, ran on January 29th, John Kipkurgat of Kenya won impressively in 1:43.91 (a new Africa Record), followed by Mike Boit (1:44.39), and then John Walker (1:44.92). Filbert Bayi was fourth in 1:45.32, nevertheless yet a new Tanzania record! At the 400m mark, Bayi had made a spirited effort to keep up with the tall lanky Kenyans, but they were too fast and too smooth, and Walker would eventually overtake Bayi. Apparently, Bayi was never a strong sprinter so, it benefited him to lead widely from the beginning given his stamina and consistency.

The heats of Bayi's main specialization, at the Commonwealth Games, the 1500m, would take place on January 31st. There were three heats, Bayi was placed in Heat 2, and the top four finishers of each heat would move on to the finals. Heat One involved Mike Boit (3:44.61) winning, followed by Australian Graham Crouch (3:44.64), then New Zealander Rod Dixon (1:44.64), then fourth was Englishman Brendan Foster (3:44.89). The second heat would turn out to be by far the fastest of the heats. Here the top four were Filbert Bayi (3:38.18), John Kirkbride of England (3:39.79), David Fitzsimons of Australia (3:39.92), and Tony Polhill (NZL) in 3:40.30. The final tally of the first four finishers in Heat 3 was John Walker (3:42.52), Bayi's fellow-countryman Suleiman Nyambui (3:42.57), Australian Randal Markey (3:42.77). Ben Jipcho, probably relaxed and simply contented with advancing to the finals and saving his energy for the ultimate run, was fourth (3:43.55).

The 1974 finals of the 1500m, at the Commonwealth Games, will loom in the minds of many track enthusiasts for a very long time. On February 2nd Bayi would ran his most iconic race, taking the lead from the beginning. The timing at the 400m mark was 54.4, 1:51.8 at the 800m mark, and 2:50.4 at the 1200m mark. Bayi established a new world record of 3:32.16, only 15 months after he had competed and emerged as a mediocre unknown at the Olympics in Munich. But given Bayi's incredible progress over the course of a year, Bayi had been predicted by many to break the world record. The runners-up also achieved phenomenal and leading world times--John Walker (New Zealand national record)---3:32.52; Ben Jipcho (Kenya national record)---3:33.16; and Rodney Dixon (New Zealand)--3:33.89. Graham Crouch was fifth (3:34.22), Mike Boit was sixth (3:36.84), and Suleiman Nyambui (3:39.62) was eighth. Jipcho's signature spurt in the last three hundred meters did not manage to stave off the young energetic Walker who was chasing Bayi, and Walker did close up on Bayi in the fight for the gold. About taking the lead right from the start, Bayi would remark, "I got boxed in [at the Olympic Games of 1972 in Munich] and was never able to take the lead....So now I take the lead from the start" (in "Bayi Breaks Record in 1500 Meter Race," by AP in Rome News-Tribune, February 3,1974).

The employment of a fast rabbit in this race would likely have produced a faster world record. Also, in the race, the leading Bayi often looked behind at his competition--perhaps an indication that he had expected the other athletes to chase him faster than they had done, and for him to achieve a better time. Also, Bayi's fast previous semi-final may apparently mean that he had fewer energy reserves for the finals than did most of the other elite competitors. In the end Bayi was elated and jumped up and down as he jogged in front of the appreciating jubilant crowd after his world-record win. Bayi was used to winning, so it was the world record that was the more exciting. Filbert Bayi had erased the 1500m world record that had previously been held by legendary American James Ronald ("Jim") Ryun. Bayi had shattered the world record by nearly one second, and Walker had also finished below Ryun's previous record. Legendary Jipcho who finished slightly outside the previous record, had already won gold in both the steeplechase and the 5000m. His gallant endeavor to win an unprecedented Commonwealth Games triple gold became thwarted!

The previous 1500m world-record run on July 8th 1967, during the USA vs. British Commonwealth of Nations track meet in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, mostly involved a memorable duel between Kip Keino and Ryun. The two exchanged the lead a couple of times in the fast pace, Ryun ran away from Keino near the end of the race and established a new world record of 3:33.1. The world record (3:35.6) established by Australian Herb Elliot on September 5th 1960 was no more. This was undoubtedly one of Ryun's greatest running performances. Track and Field News reported that "after 220 yards of dawdling, a record seemed out of the question." However, after 440 yards, which Ryun, in third place, passed in 60.9 seconds, Kip Keino took the lead and ran the next lap in 56 seconds (the fastest second lap ever run in the 1500m at that time). Ryun, just behind, passed the 880-yard mark in 1:57.0. At 1320 yards the two were side by side in 2:55.0. Ryun pulled away to finish in 3:33.1, a record that stood for seven years. With a last 440 yards of 53.9 and a last 880 yards of 1:51.3, Cordner Nelson of Track and Field News called it "the mightiest finishing drive ever seen," and said of Ryun's performance, "This was most certainly his greatest race."

On June 5th 1974, in the Tanzania capital Dar-es-Salaam, Filbert Bayi won in the 800m during the national championships after a relatively long layoff from primary competition. The finishing time was a modest 1:49.7. Later on, on June 27th in Helsinki, at the Top Games, Bayi was for the first time beaten in the 1500m by main rival John Walker. The winning time margin was quite significant: Walker finished in 3:33.89 and Bayi was second (3:37:20). On just the next day, at the International Meet in Vasteras in Sweden, Bayi changed gears to the 800m and was able to win in 1:47.1, beating legendary Kenyan Olympic 800m finalist and 4x400m relay gold medallist and also 1970 Commonwealth of Nations 800m and 4x400m relay gold medallist Robert Ouko. Soon after, in Stockholm at the Dagens Nyheter Galan meet, Bayi won in the one mile in quite an impressive 3:54.10 on July 1st. The next day, in the same event, Bayi won in the 1500m, finishing in 3:43.16. Soon afterwards, on July 4th, Bayi was at the Bislett Games in Oslo. But, he uncharacteristically, probably from injury, did not finish in the 1500m. The winner was Tom-Birger Hansen (Denmark) who was tenth in the 1500m at the Olympics held in Munich; Olympic silver medallist Mike Boit of Kenya was fifth in this meet in Oslo.

THE YEAR 1975

After quite a long layoff from international competition, Bayi emerged in 1975 at the New Zealand Games right in Christchurch where he had set the world record. This time, on January 20th, Bayi competed in and won in the infrequent 3000m and won in 7:53.9. Four days later at the New Zealand Games in the same city, Bayi won in the 800m (1:45.49), beating second-placed John Walker (1:45.9) and even 800m Commonwealth Games gold medallist John Kipkurgat who was third. The finals of the 800m, at an International meet in Auckland on January 28th witnessed Walker winning (1:46.7) in the 800m, Bayi racing in second (1:47.3), and John Kipkurgat beaten into a disappointing third place. At the end of January, Bayi competed in the Milrose Games in New York, winning in the mile in his first indoor performance in 3:59.3.

Soon afterwards, on February 7th, Bayi competed in Los Angeles (Inglewood) at the Los Angeles Times (160y indoor) track meet. Here, in the mile, Bayi won in 3:59.6, and beat off John Walker who was second in 3:59.9. On February 15th, in San Diego at the Jack in the Box Invitational (160y indoor track), Bayi significantly improved on his personal best through winning in 3:56.4, again beating nemesis John Walker (3:56.9) who was second. February 21st witnessed Bayi winning in the 1500m at the Olympic Invitational in new York. His finishing time was 3:41.2, ahead of second-placed Irish future legendary indoor world-record holder Eamonn Coghlan. At the AAU Indoor Championships in New York, on February 28th, Bayi won in the mile in a moderate 4:02.1. Then on the 6th day of March, in Cinque Mulini in San Vittore Olona in Italy, Bayi won in an unconventional 9.5 km cross-country race, ahead of New Zealanders Euan Robertson and then John Walker in third place.

After three months, Bayi was back again in international competition, again in an Italian city Formia. At the Citta di Formia, on May 8th 1975, Bayi won in the infrequently ran 1000m with a delivery of a national record of 2:18.1. On May 10th, again in another Italy city Caserta, Bayi won in the 800m at an international meet. The competition was not strong, and the finishing time was relatively modest: 1:48.3. But it was one of the tune-ups for Bayi's next legendary run.

On May 17th 1975, Sergeant Filbert Bayi had traveled all the way to the capital Kingston of Jamaica to compete in the mile at the Martin Luther King International Freedom Games. The competition was quite formidable and it included Eamonn Coghlan and American legend Martin "Marty" Liquori. Bayi confidently stood in the inner lane at the start line and immediately took the lead when the gun went off. During the first 600 meters, Bayi ran away from the other athletes and maintained a considerable length of lead just before Liquori and Coghlan began zeroing down on him and attempted to overtake him. But this simply encouraged Bayi to run faster and wear them out. The rest of the runners were considerably far behind. At the 440 yard mark, Bayi was timed at 56.9, 1: 56.9 at 880 yards, 2:55.3 at 1320 yards, and an amazing 3:35.0 at 1500m. In this "Dream Mile" (or "Miracle Mile"), Filbert Bayi broke Jim Ryun's world record by establishing a time of 3:51.0. Bayi had shaved a tenth of a second off Jim Ryun's record set in June 1967 in Bakersfield in California at the National Amateur Athletic Union meet. The previous 1500m record that Bayi broke had also been held by Ryun. In the "Dream Mile," Marty Liquori of Philadelphia was second (3:52.1), followed by Eamonn Coghlan (3:53.3) then at Philadelphia's Villanova University.

When interviewed, Bayi would remark, "I run hard at the start because that way I don't have to run in a bunch. They have to catch me....When I run from the front I know what kind of strength I have...I didn't know if I was running a world record....All I was doing was trying to win (In Bayi New King of Milers; Williams Outsprints McTear," by AP in St. Petersburg Times, May 19, 1975).

On August 12th 1975, nearly only three months after Bayi had slightly shattered the mile world record, his main nemesis the 6' 1" tall and sizeable (185 pounds, about 50 pounds heavier than Bayi) 23 year-old New Zealander John Walker further lowered the record by an astounding 1.6 seconds! The new record became 3:49.4, the first ever timing below the 3:50, established at the Goteborg Games in Germany. Bayi was not among the competitors in this world-record run, but the margin of more than 5 seconds ahead of second placed Kenneth Hall of Australia was also significant. Walker had, this year lost three times to Bayi, two times indoors.

THE LATER YEARS

In 1975, John Walker would become number one with the leading time of 3:32.4. Bayi would be ranked second with the time of 3:35.0 this year.!In 1976, Bayi again dropped down to third in ranking (3:34.8) behind John Walker (3:34:19) and Thomas Wessighage of Germany (3:34.80). In 1977, Bayi was not on top 10 list. Walker was still number one, followed by Steve Ovett of Great Britain. In 1978 Bayi was ranked world second behind Dave Moorcroft of Great Britain, and it would be the last year that Bayi would be among the leading 1500m ten runners of the world. This year he lost the Commonwealth 1500m crown to the same Dave Moorcroft, Bayi winning the silver medal.

Bayi's athletic performances reached their apex during 1973 to 1977. Thereafter, Bayi continued to perform relatively excellently and he also progressively participate in more of the longer distances such as the 3000m, 3000m steeplechase, and 5000m. Bayi was far better at the longer distances than the 800m. At the same time, competition intensified with more and more people all over the world were taking on athletic careers as the dividends from sports opportunities became more and more lucrative. Competition became progressively more challenging Over the four years toward the end of his indulgence in international competition in 1989, Bayi competed less and less, and concentrated on mainly marathons a couple of times per year. The marathon results were mixed, but notably at the Honolulu Marathon on December 12th 1986, Bayi was fourth placed behind Kenyan legend Ibrahim Hussein and fellow Tanzanians Suleiman Nyambui and Gidamis Shahanga. Bayi's time was good (2hr:16:16). Bayi's career in athletics had spanned quite a busy two decades. Bayi stands out as one of the most disciplined, flexible, well-conditioned and dedicated athletes; the greatest athlete that Tanzania has ever produced.

Among the other more notable of Bayi's achievements were the silver medal in the 1500m at the Commonwealth of Nations Games held in Edmonton in 1978; the silver medal in the 3000m steeplechase (in a new national record) at the Olympics held in Moscow in 1980 (Tanzania did not participate in the Olympics in 1976), several East and Central African gold medal wins, and several African Games wins. The medals that Bayi and Suleiman Nyambui won in Moscow are still the only Olympic medal wins by Tanzanians.

The beginning of the new century witnessed Retired Major Filbert Bayi and his wife commendably setting up a foundation (Filbert Bayi Foundation) and building schools in Tanzania that are intended to tap and develop athletic and educational talent in youngsters as part of discipline, health, economic, and overall empowerment. Bayi's complex lies in Mkuza which is 50 miles from the capital city Dar-es-Salaam. Bayi certainly stands out as much greater than his image of one greatest athletes in the world.




Jonathan Musere





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Concepts to Apply in Eliminating Molds Inside Your Homes


Molds are tiny microorganism that can exist everywhere. They have important biological functions to the environment, as well as to various human industries. For example, they are the key components for initiating the process of decaying. On the other hand, they are also vital ingredients in food production. They are very much needed in making cheese, bread, sausages and even drugs such as penicillin.

Even though they are important to almost everything, these microbes can be harmful in large quantities. When inhaled, they can trigger various health problems such as asthma and other forms of allergies. Other species of molds are capable of producing neurotoxins that could cause mental problems and eventually cause death.

That is why molds should not be allowed to proliferate in your homes. Anyone could be at risk for diseases, most specially your kids. Molds are known to be a common microorganism that can be found in areas where moist is present. Hence, it is possible that they could exist in sinks, bathrooms, appliances and other damp areas of the house.

Since no one should give these opportunistic microorganisms to invade your homes, you can try to eliminate them or perhaps, reduce their numbers. To help you out, here are some simple concepts of how to eliminate molds in your homes:

1. Clean your homes- As simple as tidying up the place can greatly reduce the number of microbes present. You may want to use disinfectants, detergent and water. Scrubbing is very much advised to clean the place effectively.

2. Reduce Moisture- As mentioned before, molds love wet or damp places. This is their main requirement for proliferation. Therefore, the best way to eliminate molds is by eliminating its source. Do this by fixing leaking pipes, drying up wet counters, sinks and tiles, removing damp articles and disposing them properly.

3. Maintain good ventilation- The more humid the place is in a room, the more build up in moisture. Therefore, it is important to keep cool air circulating indoors. If you are not using air conditioners (in ordinary weathers), open the windows and the doors. You can also use electrical fans to distribute cool air effectively.

4. Keep humidity low- According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), humidity indoors should be kept below 60%. You can ascertain this by purchasing a humidity meter. To keep it low, you need to minimize activities that could precipitate condensation. Venting heat-producing appliances like heaters, dryers and stoves can help a lot. You should also continue using air conditioners if temperature starts to rise. If you are cooking or taking a warm bath, turn on the exhaust fans.

If you have the worst case of molds, you may need to hire a contractor to do the clean up. However, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests that any personnel hired to do the job, should be experienced in cleaning molds. Moreover, they should be able to follow US EPA guidelines in mold remediation.

If you were to do the cleaning yourself, you must use protective gadgets. Goggles, mask, gowns, and gloves should be worn to avoid direct contact or inhalation of spores. Moreover, you should also follow guidelines on how to eliminate molds effectively. Otherwise, they may continue to proliferate despite your tremendous efforts.




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How to Set Up a Dart Frog Vivarium


Choosing the right enclosure

Some frogs are more arboreal while others are more terrestrial. So, you need to design your enclosure with the species in mind. You can build your tank in an upright vertical position or horizontal position. A few species of Dendrobates are arboreal. Mantellas for instance are totally terrestrial and will need a wide horizontal enclosure. There are frogs that are semi- arboreal too. So, do your research first!

Some tanks are all ready designed to house amphibians with easy access to your frogs and tank design, appropriate ventilation, power cord outlets, etc.

Designing the layout

Something to keep in mind that a lot of beginner hobbyists ignore is bringing leaves, branches from indoors and introducing them into their tanks without being sterilized beforehand. This can introduce many problems like fungus and insects. If you bring in items just microwave everything for 15 minutes. Soil, orchid bark, leaf litter, etc.

If they have appropriate hiding places they will be happy and be more likely to breed. If this is what you choose to do. Making your tank natural like a "Rainforest", is not only more appealing to the eye but your frogs will appreciate as well.. Coconut dens for instance make great hiding places for dart frogs. This in turn will keep them healthy.

There are many options when designing your tank. You can do something from the very simple or to the elaborate with dripwalls, waterfalls, ponds, tropical plants etc. Sometimes the most simplest layout is best as you will encounter less problems with plumbing or water splashing against the glass, or having to change the layout entirely, etc.

It is not necessary but adding a backwall can be a benefit to the tank and your frogs. It offers another dimension to the tank so you can add plants, driftwood, etc. It can be made from a wide variety of substrates. Such as Cork Bark, Coco Fiber, Great Stuff foam, clay (this is a special mixture), Tree Fern, Habi-Scape simulated rock, Cocos Panels, etc.

There are various options when designing the bottom of the tank as you might have guessed. The simplest method only uses a product like Miracle Grow potting mix, Orchid Bark, and leaf litter.

You can add a base substrate of LECA, pea gravel, Terra-Lite and a newer product called Feather-Lite. Cover it with weed block material or fiberglass window screen this keeps the dirt from falling into the drainage layer. Plantation soil or potting mix would go next then add forest moss or leaf litter. This helps filter out waste. If your tank is built correctly from the beginning you will not have to touch it again. Other than pruning back or replacing plants.

You will then want to do your landscaping. Do the hardscaping first such as rocks, logs, etc. Then add your chosen plants. Ferns, bromeliads, etc. Keep the throat of a bromeliad full with water and your frogs will lay eggs there.

A method I have learned that has worked really well for me is once you have your tank's floor completed "seed" it with Springtails. This is a great food source for your frogs. They also help take care of any mold or fungus that might appear in tank. Which in turn aids the tank developing into an ecosystem.

Once planted add some accents such as grape leaves, lichens, mushrooms, mosses, sea pods are really cool and of the ever popular course coconut den.

Lighting is an important aspect too. The lighting is not so important for your frogs but for your plants. Pet stores will offer appropriate lighting that does not get too hot. In most cases, a full spectrum bulb that runs the length of the tank should do just fine. You might even try running two bulbs. Keep them on a cycle of your choice with a timer.

Proper humidity is one of the most important aspects of the vivarium. You can add a dripwall/waterfall by running water lines behind the wall. Creating moisture through the use of a fogger, misting system, hand misting, etc. will maintain the appropriate humidity in the tank. Balance humidity between moisture and ventilation. You can add a humidity meter. Be careful not to over water.

Temperature is also important. Plants will do just fine with average household temperatures. Watch out not to get your tank too warm concerning your choice of frogs. You may consider a using a computer fan to keep a steady airflow. Keep your lighting on shelf above your tank. There are also good hoods on the market for this purpose.

Your next step is to buy frogs and have a reliable food source for the frogs. The best method is to set up fruit fly cultures.

So, there you have it the basics of setting up a naturalistic terrarium/vivarium. There are many different opinions on how it should be done. I have just offered what has worked best for myself. I will offer more articles on keeping and feeding, how to culture flightless fruit flies, etc.

Have fun!




My name is Bob Abraham. I have actively kept and bred reptiles and amphibians for 30+ years.





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2012年9月15日 星期六

How to Successfully Complete a Basement Remodel Project and Protect Against Mold


You could easily add up to a third extra living space to your home by completing a basement remodel project. Most families will find this extra living space a great boon and it will also add quite a bit of value onto your property; that is if you get it right. If you try and cut corners with your basement remodel project you could end up with something that is going to detract from the value of your house and end up costing you a fortune to put right; it could even lead to illness in your family. Some half-hearted attempts at a basement remodel end up creating the ideal conditions for mold to grow and become a problem.

To prevent your dream turning into a catastrophe you will need to do all you can to protect against mold. The reason that a basement remodel project can make things worse in regards to this fungus is that it can create the type of environment that mold just loves; for example, if you put some wood paneling down there and combined this with a new basement shower. Most of the materials used in a basement remodel are made up of wood and this dead organic material is exactly what mold loves. In order for mold to grow it also needs moisture so the condensation from a shower in the basement could provide plenty of this. What you have is wood soaked with water and you will soon have mold on your hands; if this is behind the paneling then it could go unchecked for a long time.

In order to protect your basement remodel project from turning into a nightmare you will need to consider how best stop this room from being mold-friendly. You can do this by not allowing moisture to build up. If you are going to install a shower down there then make sure that you have a vent to remove the condensation. Make sure there is not too much humidity in the basement; you can purchase a humidity meter to check this. If there is a problem then you can get a dehumidifier to deal with this. If you have any leaks allowing water into your basement then these will need to be sealed. It might also be a good idea to put some heating down there as this can reduce the amount of moisture on surfaces by keeping it in the air.




Charles Boday is a Certified Mold Inspector and Contractor, graduate from Certified Mold Inspector & Contractors Institute. He has worked with some of the countries top scientists seeking alternative poison-free mold remediation techniques. He has testified as an expert foundation witness and is the Author of the books, The Ultra Dry Basement.





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10 Tips to Protect Your Basement from Mold Growth


Does your basement ever flood? Is your basement ever damp? If so, you may need to inspect your basement for mold, and possibly remodel it to remove the mold.

You may suspect hidden mold if your basement smells moldy, but you cannot see the source. You may know there has been water damage, but not think there is mold. Mold may be hidden in places such as the back side of drywall, behind wallpaper, or paneling, the top side of ceiling tiles, underneath carpets and pads, etc.

Mold could also be hidden around leaking pipes, or pipes that are constantly covered with condensation. Heat and air conditioning ducts also can hide mold that can affect your family.

You may want to hire an experienced professional when investigating in your basement for mold, because sometimes when looking for mold, spores can be released that are dangerous for your health. You would be amazed at how many mold spores can be released when pulling off basement wallpaper.

Conventional construction materials used in basement remodeling and basement construction in the past are perfect for mold growth. Since they frequently contain wood and paper based products, they provide a great food source for mold, as well as soaking and holding water for long periods of time.

Here are some tips for preventing mold growth in your basement:

1. Control mold growth by acting quickly when water leaks or spills in your basement. Make it a goal to have any basement leaks or spills to be completely dry in 24-48 hours.

2. Make sure the ground outside your home slopes away from the building, so water is directed away from the house instead of collecting and leaking into the basement.

3. Purchase a humidity meter at the hardware store, and keep basement humidity below 60 percent.

4. If you see a lot of condensation on your basement pipes or basement windows, work fast to reduce humidity and dry those surfaces. Lots of condensation can be a sign of high humidity in your basement.

5. Run a dehumidifier in your basement. It will do wonders to pull moisture out of the air, preventing mold growth.

6. Make sure clothes dryers are vented outside of the basement, not inside. The moisture from drying clothes stays in the air and can encourage basement mold growth.

7. If you have a shower in your basement bathroom, install an exhaust fan to pull moist air out of the bathroom while the shower is running.

8. Cover cold surfaces like cold basement water pipes with insulation to prevent basement condensation.

9. Increase the temperature of your basement. Hot air can hold more moisture without causing condensation on basement surfaces.

10. Use fans to keep the air moving. A well ventilated basement will be less likely to become moldy.




If you are considering basement remodeling or basement finishing, did you know you can create your new basement out of mold resistant materials? Breakthrough technology has created mold resistant basement finishing systems so you never have to worry about mold again. Visit our Basement Remodeling Website for details.





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Care for the Acoustic Guitar


By far, the most important thing you can do to protect your

acoustic guitar is to control the humidity of its environment. Ask

any guitar repair person. They are the ones who see, time and time

again, the damage done to guitars and other fretted instruments by

humidity levels which are too low.

Most acoustic guitars are the happiest in a relative humidity (RH)

above 40%. In fact, most acoustic guitars are built in a relative

humidity range of 45%-50%. The greatest danger to your guitar

occurs during the fall, winter and early spring. In cold

temperatures you need to heat your home; and when you heat your

home, the air in your home becomes drier. It can often drop to less

than half of the RH of the factory in which your guitar was built!

When the RH of your (and your guitar's) home descends to lower than

35%, all kinds of terrible things can happen. Cracks can occur in

the top, the bridge can lift from the top and the neck angle can

change. The warranties of most guitar manufacturers will exclude

guitars that have been stored in an inappropriate humidity. The

necessary repairs can be quite pricey.

The good news in all of this is that the solution is quite simple.

Store you guitar in a hardshell case and keep and maintain an

in-case humidifier. There are a number of different brands and

types of humidifiers on the market, in prices ranging from about

$12-$20. Check with your music dealer for the best one for you.

Don't forget to check and add water as often as necessary. If you

really want to keep on top of things, purchase a hygrometer (a

humidity meter). These can cost anywhere from $50 to $150, but an

economy model will be accurate enough.

Another important factor in caring for your instrument is, don't

use strings that are too heavy (thick). Most manufactures suggest

that you use light gauge strings, not mediums. Some players balk at

this, but the fact is, volume and tone are often more a matter of

playing technique than of string gauge. If you have a vintage

guitar, you might want to consider extra-lights. Another route you

can go (which I do with most of my vintage instruments), is to use

"silk and steel" strings. I think these are just wonderful, for a

number of reasons: but one is, they put much less stress on your

guitar. Read my article, "Acoustic Guitar Strings--The Merits of

Silk & Steel" at:

http://ezinearticles.com/?id=518535

One other important caution regarding the care of your guitar: If

you use a capo, do not leave the capo on the instrument when you're

not playing it. The capo, when clamped on the neck, holds the

strings down on the fretboard and creates extra tension on the neck

and the top of the guitar. All acoustic guitars are destined, at

some point in time, to have problems due to the tension of the

strings. Why hasten the process by leaving a capo clamped on your

guitar?

Taking these steps to care for your acoustic guitar may seem a bit

burdensome, at first. But if you start applying these principles

now, your guitar will give you many years of playing pleasure.

Copyright © 2007 Lee Griffith. All rights reserved.




Lee Griffith is an avid acoustic guitar player and a vintage instrument enthusiast. He invites you to receive a FREE REPORT on a revolutionary acoustic guitar lesson kit, along with his weekly newsletter via email. just click on http://optin.flatpickpost.com

Check out Lee's blog, "The Flatpick Post" at http://flatpickpost.com





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2012年9月14日 星期五

Preventing Mold In the Basement


The basement is one of the areas in the house where molds usually grow. Aside from the fact that is usually dark in the basement, households seldom find time to actually clean the basement. Most water leaks also go directly to the basement which can primarily cause molds in the said area.

Preventing molds in the basement can be done by eliminating water sources in the said area of the house. Below are some instructions on how to avoid and eliminate molds in the basement:


Monitor the level of humidity in your basement. You can use humidity meter to do this or install dehumidifier. The level should be lower than 45 to avoid molds in the basement. It will help to still use dehumidifier to maintain the humidity level and to lessen the air moisture.

Inspect your basement if there is water leakage. Check the faucets (if any) and sink holes and other water sources. If there is a water leak problem, have it repair immediately. And make sure to keep your basement always dry and clean after repairing the damages.

Seal or cover the cracks and holes with cement to avoid water spillage. Make sure that the cement has water proof element to prevent water from absorbing in and prevent cement to have moist.

Clean your basement and organize the clutters. This will help for proper air circulation in your basement. If this happens, moisture can be prevented as well as molds. Make sure that your basement has enough ventilation and install fans when needed.

As much as possible, do not store newspapers, old furniture, clothes and appliances in your basement. Molds may grow in these materials as well as pests. If you really need to store them in the basement, cover them and place them away from the walls. Place them on top of tables or chairs or shelves and avoid putting them on the ground.

Check the surrounding outside of your basement. Inspect the gutters, soil or ground, trees, and many others. Make sure that the surrounding is clean and the soil is healthy. Make sure also that the spouts do not go directly to your basement or home.

Install exhaust fans especially if there is bathroom in your basement. This will avoid moisture inside and molds too. Wipe the floor and clean the bathroom even if you are using it or not.

If your outside slope is directing to your basement, repair it right away and make sure that it goes away from your home to avoid water from going to your basement.

Do not use carpet in your basement or do not store one in the basement.

Make use of metal or plastic cabinets in your basement for storage purposes. Since molds grow on woods, you may want to avoid them to avoid molds too.

Allow air access to items in your basement. This will prevent moisture to your items and to your basement. Check your items in the basement once in a while to make sure that they are still free from molds.

Molds are frequent in the basement because it is usually damp and dark in the basement. Mold and mildew are fungi and they grow fast in moist and humid areas. Once it started to grow in your basement, it can be difficult to eliminate them. Molds may cause asthma, cough, infections, congestion, allergies and skin rashes.

One way to prevent molds in the basement is to avoid putting plants in the basement. Plants in the basement may serve as food for molds and pests as well. Grow plants where it is accessible to sun light and air. Growing plants in the basement will only cause mold problems.

You can call for professional help to help you in controlling molds in your basement. Once you are secured that your basement is free from molds and that water does not enter your basement, ensure that you maintain it to avoid molds. Existing molds can be removed by soap and water. Even if you have cleaned and totally removed the molds, if your basement is still open for water build up and moisture, molds will still come back over and over again.




Mold remediation is very important for those people that have had flood water in their home. Go to honorguardpest.com to find out more about this vital service.





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Eight Standards of Environmental Protection in a Children's Room


The growth of children can be affected by many hidden factors, such as environmental pollution. When parents decorate the room for their children, they should pay attention to the decorative materials, temperature, humidity and many other elements which can affect the physical health of children. Generally speaking, 8 standards of indoor decoration must be followed so as to prevent the hidden harms.

First, the density of carbon dioxide must be less than 0.1%. The content of carbon dioxide is an indirect index to judge the indoor air. The increasing density of carbon dioxide can make children become dizzy and uncomfortable.

Second, the content of carbon monoxide should be less than 5 milligrams per cubic meter. Carbon monoxide is the most common toxic gas inside the room. It can seriously destroy the nerve cells and restrain the normal growth of children.

Third, the number of bacteria should be less than 10 per cubic meter. Children are still at a growing stage and they do not have strong immunity. It is necessary for parents to conduct strict sterilization in children's room.

Fourth, the indoor temperature should be adjusted between 18 degrees centigrade and 28 degrees centigrade. The ability of adjusting the body temperature of children is relatively poor. It is important to adjust the indoor temperature for children to acclimatize themselves to the indoor environment.

Fifth, the indoor relative humidity should be maintained between 40% and 65%. The low humidity can hurt the respiratory tract of children and the high humidity can restrain the evaporation of perspiration to make children become uncomfortable.

Sixth, the speed of air flow inside the room must be moderate. Under the premise of normal ventilation, the air flow should be less than 0.3 meter per second. The too rapid air flow can force children to feel cold.

Seventh, the indoor lighting should be moderate. When children are reading and writing, the light inside the room should be well-distributed. The light should not be too weak or too strong.

Eighth, the indoor noise should be controlled below 50 decibels. The noise can greatly affect the brain activities of children. It can not only disturb the attention, but also make children become nervous.

Except the eight standards mentioned above, the content of formaldehyde released by the decorative materials and furniture and the density of radon should also be controlled within limits. After people decorate the house, they can ask the relevant sector to check the various indexes so as to prevent serious harms completely.




Alice white green is the freelance writer for e-commerce website in the chemistry. LookChem.com is just a place for you to Look for Chemicals! Our LookChem provide the most convenient conditions for the international buyers and let these leads benefit all the business person.





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Mold & Home Inspections


Home inspections are a standard part of a real estate transaction. But making sure the roof is sound and the plumbing is up to code isn't enough: A mold inspection also should be part of the deal.

Mold is common outdoors - it helps break down those fallen autumn leaves, for example. Left to circulate indoors, however, it's not only unsightly but can exacerbate health problems such as asthma.

Mold thrives in damp conditions. It can grow on wood, carpet, insulation and cloth as well as food. It reproduces through airborne spores, which then germinate and travel. The spores can be ingested or get into the skin and cause health issues including:

o Problems with the vascular system. Increased vascular fragility, possibility of hemorrhaging into body tissues. Possible molds include aflatoxin, satratoxin, roridins.

o Problems with digestive system. Diarrhea, vomiting, intestinal hemorrhage, liver effects (such as necrosis and fibrosis). Aflatoxin results in deleterious effects on mucous membranes.

o Problems with respiratory system. Including respiratory distress, and bleeding from the lungs.

o Problems with nervous system. Tremors, lack of coordination, depression, and headaches.

o Problems with cutaneous system. Symptoms include rash, burning sensation, and sloughing

of skin.

o Problems with urinary system.

o Problems with reproductive system. Including infertility, changes in reproductive cycles, etc.

o Many mycotoxins can produce changes or a weakening of the immune system.

o The production of toxins varies according to the type of mold, the substrate on which it grows, and seasons of the year.

Maintaining a clean, dry home is key to avoiding mold growth. But while you can't get rid of mold completely, once it's established itself, you can take steps to lessen its effects.

How To Identify and Clean Mold

Most types of mold appear quite similar --- black or gray sooty patches. The good news is that even if toxic molds are in or around a home, most homeowners remove them through normal cleaning before they are able to grow to a size where they would pose a threat.

The danger level occurs when mold reaches a size of roughly 2 square feet. Also of concern is if mold has infested household items like insulation, drywall, or carpet. If so, these materials should be immediately extracted and the source of the dampness or wetness should be fixed. When replacing these items, it is best to use a non-cellulose and low nitrogen replacement material.

If the mold patch is small, it can be removed with a chlorine-bleach solution (1 cup of bleach in 1 gal. of water). The mold should come off with simple scrubbing (individuals should protect themselves with eye protection, rubber gloves and carbon filter respirators). Mold that has dried should not be scraped because this greatly increases the chances the releasing toxin-carrying spores into the air.

Sources in and around homes that can create a dangerous environment include leaky or broken pipes, windows or older doors that lack good seals, roofs that leak, and any cracks or holes in the building. If flooding has occurred, it is extremely important to make sure that the water is thoroughly dried up to avoid festering water or dampness. In addition, reducing the humidity through the use of a dehumidifier can prevent the growth of dangerous toxic molds.

Where to Look for Mold:

Check for odors

If you've had a leak somewhere in your home, you'll most likely smell the mold before you see it. If you suspect a problem contact a certified mold inspector.

Check for odors near your air conditioning ducts

Turn your air conditioning off for a while - several minutes will do. Then turn it back on and stand directly under the path of air flowing from a duct. If your air conditioning unit or your home's ductwork is contaminated, you will smell the musty mold odors.

Odors build up when the air conditioning unit is off; they may lessen after the unit has been on for a while. Minor moldy odors and contamination are relatively common in air conditioning units.

Having a mold inspector sample the air from your ducts may not do you much good -- mold in air conditioning units often grows without producing a lot of spores. Instead, have an experienced, certified mold inspector check the inside of your air conditioning unit.

Look for mold on air conditioning registers and coils

As air passes through metal air conditioning registers, it gets cold. If your home is particularly humid, that could cause condensation on the registers. Air conditioning coils help remove indoor humidity and can cause mold growth.

Look for spots in basements and closets

Mold also occurs in areas with poor air circulation, such as basements, closets and bathrooms.

Look for spots on water damaged building materials

Water-damaged items may show signs of mold through the presence of small spots, smudge marks or a powdery residue in the area that became wet. Most mold spots are black, brown, green, or white. Initial growths typically are a few millimeters wide.

If the spots rub off, smear or detach easily, suspect mold. Other marks and stains usually are more difficult to remove.

Check window caulking

Mold can grow inside walls too, and window leaks are a common cause. Even small defects in caulking can let water from rain or lawn sprinkler systems into your walls and start a hidden mold problem.

Inspect baseboards

Water flows down when it enters walls, then soaks into baseboards, causing them to swell, and then shrink when they dry. That expansion and deflation can cause baseboards to separate slightly from the wall. If you can see a crack between the top of the baseboard and the wall, you may have a hidden mold problem.

Carpet tack strips also will stain and rot from water in your walls, and moisture trapped behind wallpaper will cause mold as well. Since wallpaper is rarely peeled back during mold inspections, hidden mold may not be found immediately.

How to Find a Certified Mold Inspector

Mold inspectors must agree to follow certain standards of care. A number of federal agencies and professional organizations have produced helpful references that help define standards of care for mold practice.

Hire a professional mold inspector who utilizes moisture meters, humidity meters, borescopes, and air samples to detect mold problems and who provides professional remediation recommendations.

There are no national or state-recognized mold certifications, although the American Board of Industrial Hygiene and the American Society of Safety Engineers offer credentialing programs. While credentials are a good measure of basic competency, they should be combined with professional education and experience not only in mold inspection and remediation but in areas such as building inspection and data interpretation.




Olympian Civil Home and Building Inspections (866) 476-2056

Copyright c 2008 Olympian Civil Home and Building Inspectors,

2008 All Rights Reserved

Please visit my inspection mega-site for more information about my full service home inspection and environmental testing company. We service Brooklyn, Queens, New York, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Yonkers and the Bronx. You may also wish to visit my learning library which is packed with great tips and advice for buyers, sellers and homeowners alike. Lastly, you can also take advantage of my VIP referrals for vendors in over 50 home related trades, where your satisfaction is assured and the inspection of vendors completed workmanship or products is conducted on your behalf for free; visit my site for more details or call toll free 866-476-2056.

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