Solar panel popularity is on the rise, especially in the Southwest where solar energy is becoming more accessible and inexpensive. Also, the go-green attitude many are adopting seems to motivate a lot of homeowners to seek out cleaner energy options. Advancements in technology have made it possible for homeowners to not only power their homes with solar energy, but make it profitable while being gentle on Mother Earth. Solar panels are no longer a poor man’s dream, but what about maintenance? As long as we’ve had solar panels, we’ve had the argument over whether or not they should be cleaned. To clean, or not to clean… that seems like an odd question, huh? We are a cleaning company, so spoiler alert: we think you should have your panels cleaned if you want them to work at peak efficiency at all times. Much to our surprise, a lot of manufacturers have claimed that their solar panels are “self-cleaning” and therefore save you money, time and effort because they’re so “low-maintenance.” What they really mean is that it should rain enough for your panels to stay clean and efficient… enough. With that logic we could argue that your windows, roof, siding, deck, sidewalk and driveway are all “self-cleaning,” too. They’re outside, so if it rains once in a while… they must be clean, right?
Continue reading "Why You Should Clean Your Solar Panels" While it is fairly typical to see during wintertime, interior window condensation isn’t just a common nuisance; it can be a sign of heat loss. Heat loss = high utility bills… no thank you! As a responsible homeowner, you’ll want to understand the root of the issue, whether it has potential to damage your home, and what you can do to prevent it. Continue reading "How to Stop Condensation on Windows in Winter"
[caption id="attachment_3435" align="aligncenter" width="900"] A clean ship is a well-run ship. Passengers on ships are naturally drawn to the windows, especially cruise ships where guests are guided along scenic points. As well, passengers will be uneasy of what is on the ship if it is dirty, and this includes the ship’s windows. Ships need to clean all their windows to keep the salt from causing damage, maintain impressions, health and ease of viewing.[/caption] Continue reading "How do they do it? Cleaning Windows on a Ship"
Windows get dirty year round. For a large part of the country this makes it very difficult to clean them three months out of the year. The most frustrating thing about this is that winter is generally the time of year when windows can get the dirtiest. Melting snow dragging dirt and debris onto windows and the helpful yet annoying salt that seems to cover everything.
What makes cleaning windows in the winter so difficult is obviously sub-freezing temperatures. Water freezing before it can be squeegeed off is infuriating. Warm water is huge no-no because it can cause your glass to crack. So what can you do? We have a simple formula that will make cleaning your windows in freezing temperatures just as easy as cleaning them on a spring day.
Continue reading "Cleaning Windows in Freezing Temps" It’s that time of year again! The cold is slowly beginning to creep its way into your home. In an effort to keep from boring you with math and science lets just say heat flows from hot to cold. So technically the heat is trying to escape. We often feel a drafty window and say to ourselves “ The cold is trying to break in.”, but it’s not necessarily true. So how do we convince the heat from leaving? Continue reading "Diminish Drafty Windows this Winter"
Every year around the holidays, our kitchens take a beating. If you have ever hosted Thanksgiving, you know exactly what I'm talking about... and no other appliance gets it worse than our poor ovens. If your oven's door glass is looking greasy and foggy - never fear! We want to share some of our favorite ways to get that glass crystal clear again: Continue reading "How to Clean the Glass on the Oven Door"
Making sure your fireplace/wood stove is in safe, working condition this winter is a top priority... but once you've got that squared away, it's important to also keep it looking clean! Sure, fire keeps us warm in our homes, but it's also beautiful and relaxing to watch. So, how are you supposed to enjoy a roaring fire if the glass door is all covered in soot and build-up? Luckily, cleaning your fireplace glass is much easier than you think. Continue reading "How to Clean Fireplace Glass"
Most people can handle their to-do list inside the home, but how many of you have the time, supplies, ability or desire to completely clean your windows, siding, gutters, or roofs? Ladders are scary and dangerous, but so is someone who hasn’t had experience with a pressure washer. Too often these chores fall to the wayside, but don’t let ‘em! No more excuses: Window Genie is here to offer help. Continue reading "Which Chores are Best Left to the Professionals?"
Even if you are not selling your home, you may be looking to make your investment worth more. Most homeowners only think about the value of their house when they are ready to sell. Buying a home is your largest investment and the thought that maintaining it or increasing its value isn’t a priority is asinine. Here are a few tips that can be done continually throughout the life of your home. Continue reading "6 Ways to Increase Your Home’s Value"
For a lot of America fall is a time to celebrate. Football is back, school is back, leaves are changing colors, and pumpkin spice flavoring is everywhere. But as summer starts winding down, our homes might need a re-fresher. Spring cleaning is all about clearing the clutter and brightening our homes up. Fall cleaning is really about getting your home ready for colder weather. Here are a few things that we recommend you get done before fall is in full swing. Continue reading "End of Summer Cleaning List"
