| How to Prevent Frozen Water Pipes Posted: 04 Feb 2018 04:00 PM PST Water expands when it freezes into ice. Unfortunately, water pipes (usually metal or plastic) don't. This puts a frozen water pipe in danger of bursting, causing a costly mess. The good news is that you can prevent pipes from freezing in the first place by keeping them warm. If you're leaving for an extended period of time in the winter, you can and should drain your water lines. On the other hand, if a deep freeze hits your pipes before you can take action, you can thaw them safely. EditKeeping the Pipes Warm - Wrap heater tapes around the pipes. Buy UL-endorsed tape with a built-in thermostat. This safety precaution will prevent the tape from overheating You can either wrap the tape around the pipes or run them along the length of the pipes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to use the tape.
- While you can lay insulation over some tapes, others might cause the insulation to catch fire. Always read the safety information before installing the tape.
- Alternatively, you could use a heated reflector lamp in a dry enclosed space. On cold nights, check the light to see that it is working.[1]
- Insulate all water pipes from cold moving air. Wrap pipes in foam rubber insulation designed for pipes. Make sure that there aren't any gaps between the pipe and the insulation. Miter any strips of insulation that meet at the corners of pipes. Secure them with duct tape. Keep the foam dry as you insulate.
- Insulation alone doesn't prevent freezing. It only slows down the transfer rate of heat to cold.[2]
- Insulate and heat the drain lines. Apply foam rubber insulation in the same way you insulated the pipes. Pay attention to bathroom and kitchen sinks. Don't overlook lines in crawl spaces and cold basements. On especially cold days, direct a heat lamp on the drain P-trap.[3]
- If you're concerned about a fire hazard, keep the cabinet doors beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.[4]
- Open the tap on cold days without power. If you lose electric power, let the water run no faster than a slow constant drip. This is cheaper than repairing a burst pipe. First, start a slow drip on the hot side faucet, then a faster drip on the cold side faucet. There is no need to run a lot of water. Bathrooms can be cold, as long as they aren't freezing.[5]
- Use a thermal convection-powered hot water recirculation valve. This doesn't require electricity to operate. It bypasses the drain and continuously circulates warm water through the waterlines. Turn the water off at the main source before installing. Remove the valves under the sink with a mini hacksaw. Use the included connecting joints to attach the valve to the copper fitting from the wall. Secure the fittings to the pipes with a wrench. Switch off the valve whenever you don't want the water to circulate.
- This method requires that the valve be installed at a higher level (usually the second or third floor) than the water heater.
- Circulating water throughout your system non-stop will also increase your water heating bill.[6]
- Use a RedyTemp. This device uses an internal water contacting temperature probe to monitor the water temperature inside the pipes. Disconnect one end of the existing faucet supply lines. Attach them to the RedyTemp. Connect the two faucet supply lines that come with the device. Plug the unit into a standard wall socket and set the desired temperature set point.
- Gauge the effectiveness of your chosen set point by opening cold water faucets upstream and feeling how cool or warm the water is coming out the tap. Adjust the set point accordingly until optimized. You'll achieve an optimized set point when cool or warm water stays in the cold water pipes or the portion of pipe requiring protection.
- If you own a tankless on-demand water heater, you'll need the TL4000 series model rather than the more common ATC3000. During off seasons when you don't need circulation, lower the temperature set point.[7]
- Adjust the thermostat. Set the home or structure's thermostat to at least . This will keep the temperature well above the freezing point of water. It will also allow enough warm air to circulate to the attic and behind walls, where pipes are often located.[8]
EditDraining Your Water Lines - Locate the main water supply. This consists of two parts. You should find one part near the meter on the street side of your house. The location of the second part depends on where you live. If you live in a warm climate, look on an outside wall or in an underground box. If you're in a colder climate, look in the basement.[9]
- Turn off the main water supply. First, open all faucets in the house. Then, shut down both parts of the valve. Make sure that the water flow coming from the faucets stops after a few minutes. If it doesn't, re-check both parts of the valve and tighten them as best as you can. Call a plumber if you can't shut off the valve or if any part of the valve breaks.
- If you receive well water, turn off its electrical switch to prevent the well from pumping water inside.[10]
- Shut off secondary supply valves. Take this step if you have automatic outdoor watering systems that prevent you from shutting off the main water supply. Look for round or oval handles. Turn the handles clockwise ("righty tighty") to close the valves. Shut off valves to appliances involved in significant drainage. These include:
- The dishwasher
- The washing machine
- The ice maker on the refrigerator
- Look for this valve either under the sink or in the basement.[11]
- Inspect the supply lines. Look for leaks, rust, cracks, and other evidence of damage. If any areas are damaged, replace them with hoses coated in braided stainless steel. These are more durable than rubber hoses. Call a plumber if you need assistance.[12]
- Treat the sump pump. Add a battery backup to the pump in the event of a power failure. Pour water into the pit. It should drain the water by itself. If it doesn't, make sure the pump is plugged in and the breaker is switched on. If it's still not working:
- Make sure the motor is running normally.
- Check the pipe for evidence of freezing or clogging.
- Clean the discharge line.
- Call a plumber if all else fails.[13]
- Disconnect watering implements from your outdoor spigot. This includes the hose and the sprinkler. Disconnect everything in the winter or before the temperature in your area drops below freezing. The water inside the hose can freeze and back up into the spigot until it reaches your pipes. Any pipe that freezes can burst.
- You can also replace your spigot with one that prevents the water inside the house from reaching the cold exterior. These frost-free spigots are level with the connecting pipe.[14]
- Treat the exterior spigot. You can protect it from causing problems in one of three ways:
- Wrap it in foam rubber insulation.
- Open the spigot to drain any excess water from the connecting pipes.
- Replace it with a spigot that shuts off the supply of water to pipes in the walls.[15]
- Call a plumber. If you live in an especially cold climate, ask a plumber to inspect your work to make sure you left no loose ends. Have them also drain the water heater. For an added bit of precaution, you could also ask them to empty water left in drains and traps and replace it with non-toxic antifreeze.[16]
EditThawing Frozen Pipes - Locate the frozen pipe. Turn on each faucet one by one. If none of your faucets works, the frozen pipe is close to or right at the main water supply, usually located on the street side of your basement or in an uninsulated crawl space. Run your hands every few feet along the pipe to find a section that feels very cold. This is the frozen section.[17]
- If water flows from some faucets but not others, the problem might be in a pipe connected to a specific faucet or a pipe on one side of the house. Check pipes in uninsulated walls first.
- Keep all frozen taps open until water starts to flow. Then, lower the water to a trickle.[18]
- Check the pipe in the area of the freeze. Some plastic or copper pipes will split. This will flood the area when thawed. If the pipe looks burst or has a slit in it, call a plumber immediately. Turn off the water supply, as well as the water heater.[19] If there are no splits, begin the thawing process.
- Heat the area around the frozen part. Use an electric space heater, a hair dryer, or a heat lamp in a reflector to prevent a fire. Exercise caution when placing heat-generating devices. Never leave these devices unattended for any amount of time when in use. If you have a problem, call the plumber.
- Space heaters, heat lamps, and reflective lamps can generate high temperatures, which might cause flammable materials to combust. If you need to place a heat source under the kitchen sink, remove all chemicals first.[20]
- Consider hiring a licensed plumber if you have any reservations about following the steps in this article.
- If the plumber won't guarantee their work, seek professionals who will. Refuse to pay if the work is not performed correctly.
- Never use any kind of open flame. It may burst your pipes.
EditThings You'll Need - Pipe insulation
- Heat tape
- Reflector heat lamp
- Hand-held hair dryer
- Thermal convection-powered hot water recirculation valve
- RedyTemp
- Wrench
- Mini hacksaw
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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| How to Attend TED Talks Posted: 04 Feb 2018 08:00 AM PST Attending a Technology Entertainment and Development (TED) Talk can be a potentially life changing event, as you will be able to listen, share, and interact with great thinkers from all over the world in a variety of fields. If you have $5,000 USD budget and want to experience a large event, you can send in a written application to attend a TED Talk Conference. If you are more budget conscious and prefer a local experience, you can get tickets to a TEDx Event in your area. Whichever type you choose, you can have a full TED Talk experience in just a few steps and find out first hand what all the fuss is about. EditApplying to Attend a TED Talk Conference - Sign up for a TED.com profile. To apply to attend a TED Talk Conference, you will need to first create a TED.com profile on their website: https://auth.ted.com/users/new. You will need to provide your first and last name, your email, and a password for your account.[1]
- Select the TED Talk you wish to attend. TED releases a list of upcoming talks on their website: https://www.ted.com/attend/conferences/ted-conference. Read the description of each TED Talk and choose one that feels relevant to your interests and goals.
- TED Talks tend to fill up several months in advance so consider picking a talk that is several months away. You can then apply early and increase your chances of landing a spot on the attendance list.
- Choose your membership option. TED offers four levels of membership for attendees: Vanguard, Standard, Donor, and Patron. If you have never attended a TED Talk Conference, you should choose the Vanguard option, as it is made for first time attendees. It is also the most affordable of the four options in terms of price, at $5,000 USD.[2]
- The other three options go up in price, and perks, ranging from $10,000-$250,000 USD.
- Set aside at least 2 hours for the application. The application consists of 6 short essay questions that you will need to answer in detail. Focusing on the application for 2 hours will ensure you put enough thought and effort into each question. You will need to provide a bio as well as answer questions about your goals, accomplishments, and professional work.[3]
- You may break up the application, working on it a little at a time, as you save and return to your application through your TED.com account.
- Discuss 1-3 professional goals. Tell the reviewers what you hope to achieve professionally in your career, listing your short-term and long-term goals. Keep the goals specific and relevant to your professional work.[4]
- For example, you may note short-term goals like, "Building an app that tracks the effects of human activity on ocean coral" and long-term goals like, "Connecting human activity with human responsibility for the ocean."
- List at least 1-3 professional awards and accomplishments. Include any grants, fellowships, and other recognition you've received in your field. This will show the reviewers that you are ambitious and engaged in your work. You can also note any fellowships or grants that you hope to receive in the near future to help you achieve your goals.[5]
- For example, you may write, "As the lead of my research team, I received a $15,000 USD grant to fund work on ocean sustainability in local communities."
- Explain how you will contribute to the TED community. Tell the reviewers what you can bring to the TED talk as an audience member. Explain how the theme of the TED talk you are applying for relates to your professional work and interests. This will show the reviewer that you will be a valuable participant at the talk.[6]
- For example, you may write, "My work on an app about ocean sustainability relates to several aspects of the upcoming TED Talk, 'The Future You,' combining activism, science, and social media engagement in a unique way."
- Include links to your social media accounts. If you have Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, include your social media handles for these accounts in your application. Make sure your social media accounts paint a positive, engaged picture of your professional work, as the reviewers will likely look at these accounts closely.[7]
- You may go through your social media accounts before you submit your application to ensure they are a good representation of your professional work, interests, and goals.
- Provide a personable, interesting bio. A key section of the application is your biography, where you introduce yourself and provide details about your background, your interests, and your work. Avoid simply copy and pasting an existing bio on your website or your social media pages. Make your bio personable and detailed so you stand out, using a professional, friendly tone. Your bio should be at least 200-500 words.[8]
- For example, rather than write, "My name is Jane Flowers and I am a microbiologist," you may write, "As a microbiologist studying the impact of human activity on the ocean, I am all about examining the hidden details, the creatures of the deep."
- List 2-3 professional references who can speak to your goals and interests. Use references that you worked directly with or for in your field, such as a professor, a peer, a boss, or a mentor. Avoid using family members or a spouse as a reference, as this may not come across as very professional.[9]
- If you have a reference who has attended a TED Talk Conference in the past or is affiliated in some way to TED, make sure you mention them in your application.
- You will be prompted to list the names and contact information of your references in the application.
- Submit your application online. It is free to apply to attend a TED Talk Conference.[10]
EditGetting Tickets for a TEDx Event - Search for a TEDx Event in your area. TEDx Events are put on by local organizations that partner with TED to create TED Talk-like events and discussions. Look for a TEDx Event using the search tool on TED.com: https://www.ted.com/tedx/events. Explore events by location, date, and whether there are spaces available.
- Look for an event that seems interesting and relevant to your work. Make sure the event is being held at a local venue on a date that fits your schedule so you do not have to travel to attend.
- Buy tickets for the TEDx event on TED.com. Tickets for TEDx Events can be purchased individually through TED.com, as you do not need to send in an application to attend at TEDx Event. The tickets will be significantly cheaper than a TED Talk Conference, range in price from $75-$100 USD, depending on the event.[11]
- Look for tickets a few weeks or months before the event to increase your chances of getting them. Some TEDx Events can sell out quickly or have limited seating.
- Get tickets online through TEDx partners if you cannot find them on TED.com. Do an online search for the TEDx Event, as organizations that partner with TED usually sell tickets for the event on their website. Some organizations will also offer tickets through their social media accounts to their followers.[12]
EditAttending the TED Talk - Budget for the admission fee for the TED Talk. If your application is accepted for a TED Talk Conference, you will need to pay the admission fee for attending the talk. The cost of attending depends on the membership type you selected when you applied. The base cost for attending a TED Talk is $5,000 USD. TED offers reduced ticket prices for young innovators through their TED Fellows Program. You can apply for this program here: https://www.ted.com/about/programs-initiatives/ted-fellows-program.
- Factor in the cost of travel and accommodations to the TED Talk Conference. If you are attending a TED Talk Conference, you will need to arrange your travel and accommodations, as they are usually held for several days in locations in North America and Europe. Look for flight deals online and go for cheaper accommodations like Airbnb, VRBO, or a budget hotel.
- TEDx Events are local and usually only last several hours so you may not need to worry about extra costs like travel and accommodations. You will still need to factor in the cost of the ticket for the TEDx talk.
- Pick 3-4 people on the guest list you'd like to meet. As an attendee, you will receive a list of the speakers and other attendees at the talk. Go through the list of attendees and research them online to get a sense of their work and interests. Identify 3-4 people that you would like to connect with so you can network at the talk. Read up on these 3-4 people so you have talking points and conversation starters for when you meet them at the talk.[13]
- The TEDx Event and TED Talk Conference usually have meet and greet times before and after the speakers at the event so you can get to know other attendees and the speakers.
- You can also reach out to other attendees and speakers before you attend the talk, especially if they work in the same or similar field as you. Look for attendees that are based close to where you are and contact them so you can meet before the talk as prep for the event.
- Participate in the Q&A for the TED Talk speakers. Stand out of the sea of attendees by asking a thoughtful question or two during the Q&A portion of the TED Talk. This will show the speakers and other attendees that you did your homework and are willing to engage with the talk.[14]
- You may need to do research on the speakers beforehand and talk notes during their talk to prepare your questions.
- Take advantage of the extra activities at the TED Talk. TED Talks are more than just speakers. There are also off site events, meet up and networking events, and more casual talks. Vendors and organizations will also have products and innovations on display that you can look at and experience. Be sure to take advantage of all the different activities and add-ons at the conference so you get the full TED Talk experience.[15]
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| How to Deal with Erectile Dysfunction in a Relationship Posted: 04 Feb 2018 12:00 AM PST Erectile dysfunction (ED) can impact a couple in ways that are uncomfortable, embarrassing, and difficult to navigate. As a couple, explore ways to deepen your intimacy in ways that don't include sex. Communicate clearly and don't be afraid to talk about your feelings or your desire. And remember, even though erectile dysfunction can be difficult, stay away from blame, criticism, and harsh judgment and instead meet each other with love, support, and empathy. EditOffering Support - Empathize with each other. Erectile dysfunction can affect each partner. If you're the partner with ED, recognize that changes to sex might be alarming or different for your partner. If you're the partner to someone with ED, recognize how they might feel about their dysfunction and how that might affect their self-esteem or desire to engage in sex. Be loving and empathetic to one another and recognize each other's struggles.[1]
- While this experience may be hard on you, it's likely hard on your partner as well. Show them that you understand (or want to understand) and support them.
- Avoid blaming yourself or your partner. Blame is not something that will help you or your partner feel better or perform better. Avoid blaming yourself or wondering if your partner isn't attracted to you, is cheating, or you're not pleasing them. Often, dysfunction is linked with external factors such as medication or health influences, age, and stress.[2]
- If your partner suffers from ED, remember that the sexual dysfunction is likely not related to you. Don't put undue pressure on yourself to improve your performance.
- Take the pressure off performance. Putting sexual pressure on yourself or your partner to perform is rarely an effective method. Focus on other parts of your partner's body and your own body. Do other intimate activities together that do not involve the genitals.[3]
- For example, agree to get naked together and pleasure one another, but not have sex or involve the penis. Take turns blindfolded and explore each other's bodies through different senses and touch.
- You could also give each other full-body massages with massage oil. Avoid concentrating on the genitals, and instead just circle around the area.
- Increase physical intimacy in other ways. Physical intimacy isn't just sex and doesn't only involve the genitals. Hold each other and cuddle regularly as a way to physically connect, with or without clothes on.[4] Deeply hug each other, hold hands, and kiss passionately! Take the pressure off sex and purely enjoy physical touch and connection.
- Focus on giving pleasure to one another without having to use the genitals. For example, kiss your partner's body, caress them gently, and make the activity only about intimate touching without the expectation of sex.
- Be supportive in treatment. If your partner is interested and willing to treat their ED, be supportive in them seeking treatment. This might mean encouraging them to make a medical appointment or consider changing or adding medications. If your partner is already seeking treatment, show your support for them without putting them down or making fun of them. Ask them what support they want or need.[5]
- Whatever steps your partner is doing (or thinking of doing), show your support.
- For example, attend medical appointments with your partner as support if they want you to or ask you to.
EditCommunicating Openly - Listen to one another. Emotional intimacy is comprised of empathy, understanding, and compassion, which all hinge on being a good listener to your partner. Build your emotional intimacy by learning to listen and truly understand one another. When your partner speaks, lean in and let them finish their thoughts before cutting them off or adding what you want to say. Aim to understand their thoughts and feelings before contributing your own.[6]
- Ask questions to better understand each other. Reflect your understanding back to your partner to make sure you've got it right by saying something like, "What I hear you saying is that you haven't brought it up because you've been ashamed."
- Speak candidly about sex. For some couples, sex is a taboo subject and it's difficult to talk about problems, desires, and needs. Allow each other to voice concerns, fears, and feelings. Open communication means that both partners can contribute to work together instead of blaming or shaming one another.[7]
- Bring up the topic by saying, "I think it's important to address sex and find ways to help both of us feel fulfilled."
- Talking about sexual frustrations and problems can help partners not build anger, disappointment, and resentment.
- Talk about sex positively. You or your partner may feel ashamed or embarrassed about erectile dysfunction. Never put yourself or your partner down or make them feel judged or 'less than' sexually. If you blame your partner for a lack of sex or are critical of their performance, this can make them feel ashamed and can make the dysfunction worse. Be careful when talking about your partner's performance and try to keep all language and discussions hopeful.
- For example, use "I" statements so that you are not blaming your partner but still speaking truthfully. You can say, "I'm having a hard time, too. I love having sex with you so it's difficult for me to adjust to this change."[8]
- Tell your partner which aspects of your sexual relationship you enjoy and value. Place any problems with your sex life within this context to ensure the conversation remains positive.
- Ask what your partner wants sexually. Good communication can improve satisfaction for both you and your partner. If your partner is struggling to get an erection, take the pressure off and ask them what they want. They may want you to touch them or kiss them in a different way or different area. Ask them to tell you what they want or show you what they want.[9]
- While it's nice to put the focus on your partner, make sure you still feel comfortable and engaged. Don't be afraid to speak up if something is outside of your comfort zone.
EditSeeking Treatment - Get a physical examination. Erectile problems can sometimes be a symptom of coronary disease, liver disease, or diabetes. Make an appointment with a general practitioner and tell them the symptoms. They may do a series of tests to determine any health risks or medical causes of the dysfunction.[10]
- If your partner is hesitant to get an examination, let them know that there may be medical causes for the dysfunction and that simple changes can make a difference.
- Discuss your medications with your provider. Some prescription medications can influence performance. If you suspect this might be the case, talk it over with the physician and ask if there are any alternative medications. Additionally, medications can be added to help increase sexual performance. Talk with your prescriber about your options.[11]
- Tell your provider what symptoms you experience and when they began to occur. You may change medications, change doses, or add a medication to help with arousal.
- See a specialty therapist. Problems with sex can cause damage to relationships, especially if you're struggling to know what to do or how to handle these changes. If you and your partner are struggling to move forward, consider seeing a therapist. Professional help can encourage you and your partner to relate differently, create solutions, and discuss about what's going on in a safe and supportive atmosphere.[12]
- Treat contributing mental health factors. Anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can contribute to erectile dysfunction. If you've noticed problems increase when you or your partner are under stress or feeling anxious, treat these symptoms first. Treating mental health can help alleviate sexual problems and help you or your partner feel better, too.[13]
- Make an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist to talk about mental health, diagnosis, and treatment. You can find a provider by contacting your health insurance company or calling your local mental health clinic.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you or your partner are not taking good care of your body at the moment, now is the perfect time to make some changes and improve health. Exercise regularly, eat a nutritious and balanced diet, and cope with stress in an effective way. Taking care of yourself can help your body run better and help you feel better, too.[14]
- Stop smoking. Smoking can interfere with sex, so it's best to cut back or quit altogether.
- If you've been drinking excessively, cut back on your alcohol intake as well, as alcohol can contribute to sexual problems.
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