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Flying privately has a multitude of advantages – from not having to worry about plowing through security, to the relaxation of not having to deal with a jam packed flight. You can take your whole group onto one aircraft and share the experience of flying together in luxury and privacy. In Colorado, pets are a common addition to most families, and many people want to bring their dogs or cats along with them when flying privately.

It’s not uncommon for a private jet company to allow pets on their flights, but there are some guidelines that must be followed and a number of factors to consider. It’s important to check with the provider to see what their stipulations are for allowing pets on board – and if there’s additional costs.

What Kind of Pet Is It?

One of the biggest points to consider will be your pet. You might not be able to bring your three horses onto a private plan, but smaller pets like cats and dogs are usually more easily accommodated. However, that can also depend on the size of the dog. Some private jet companies might not allow larger breeds. Well-behaved pets are also more likely to be welcome. Aggressive pets, and animals that are overly anxious, might not be suitable for air travel. If your dog is also untrained or unpredictable, they might also not be welcome on a private flight.

Private jet companies that allow pets may require them to remain in appropriate carriers throughout the duration of the flight. These carriers should be large enough for your pet to be comfortable – where it can stand up, lie down, and even turn around comfortable. It’s important to check out the regulations and requirements of the company providing the private aircraft to understand their particular rules.

Other Considerations When Traveling with Pets

While the size of your pet is one consideration, it’s also important to consider the size of the aircraft. Smaller private jets typically don’t have a lot of space, and may have restrictions as to the types of pets that can be brought on board – or if pets are allowed at all. There might be additional fees for bringing pets on board, as well, and these fees can vary widely from one private jet company to the next. It’s important to have a clear understanding of these fees, and the other rules, before bringing your pet.

International travel is another consideration. If you’re going abroad, you’ll need to understand the regulations and quarantine requirements of the destination country. Some places can leave pets in quarantine for a very long time, putting undue stress on the animal. There might be other requirements at domestic airports, as well.

It’s crucial to discuss your pet’s travel needs with the private jet company, as well as what their requirements are. Understanding these beforehand will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your pet. Clear communication is essential, as considerations have to be made on a number of fronts. For more information, reach out to the experts at International Jet today.

A private jet is a luxury status symbol—find out which popular celebrities own them.

Celebrities are always doing everything in style, which is why the general public loves learning about their lives. One notable difference between celebrities and the average person? Owning a private luxury jet. Find out who in Hollywood has their own!

Celebrities with Private Jets

These ten celebrities travel on their own terms with beautiful private jets that get them where they need to go!

Tom Cruise

This action movie hero is well-known for his roles that include flying and jumping out of planes, so it should come as no surprise that he also owns his very own private jet. The rumor is that he has one of the nicest private jets in Hollywood!

Bill Gates

Supporting global customers is no small task, and it can come with quite a bit of travel too. Bill Gates owns a private jet that he uses to travel for business, vacations, and more!

Taylor Swift

Known for her top hits, Taylor Swift enjoys traveling the world to visit family, friends, and fans. Her private jet empowers her to travel locally and beyond to get where she needs to go as quickly as possible.

Kim Kardashian

The Kardashian family is well-known for their immense fortune and dedicated fanbase. To enjoy the life of luxury that they love to show off, the family often travels on Kim Kardashian’s private jet.

Jeff Bezos

Few businessmen have left a larger mark on modern history than Jeff Bezos. With his immense fortune and global operations, it is obvious why he relies on private jets to get him where he needs to go.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah loves to give things away, but her company was all too happy to give her a gift—her very own private jet. With her jet, she can travel comfortably, so she is refreshed and ready to meet the public!

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

This former wrestler-turned-leading actor is known for his Hollywood work and his impact on the world of tequila. Since he is constantly traveling for work, he prefers to do it from the comfort of his own private jet.

John Travolta

Known for his singing and acting, John Travolta has been delighting audiences for years. Fortunately, his hard work has allowed him to enjoy multiple private jets in his lifetime.

Chris Hemsworth

In recent years, Chris Hemsworth has skyrocketed to Hollywood fame with leading roles like Thor. To manage his busy schedule and get some peace from his fans, he enjoys traveling on a private jet.

Beyonce & Jay-Z

This popular musical power couple has been filling the airwaves with top hits for years. When they are between projects, they enjoy traveling in a private jet that can take them exactly where they need to go. Some investments are just plain worth it!

The Takeaway

Finding the perfect private jet for convenient travel means working with a private jet company that can handle everything for you. These celebrities partner with companies just like ours to enjoy traveling on their own terms. Contact us today to learn more!

How Are Air Conditioners Rated?

Air conditioners are a crucial home system, but what do their ratings really mean?

Everyone knows that an air conditioning unit can provide a wonderful opportunity for you to keep your home comfortable during the warmer months. In Colorado, we are known for our wide range of temperatures—everything from freezing right up to scorching! For this reason, an air conditioning unit is a very important investment to make. Rating systems for these devices can be confusing. In this article, we will explore how these ratings work.

Air Conditioner Ratings: What You Need to Know

Most homeowners want some kind of air conditioner. Whether you’re adding one to a property for the first time or simply upgrading your existing system, chances are that you want something that is worth the investment. Let’s explore what to look out for in ratings.

Efficiency

One of the top rating considerations regards efficiency. We live in a world that is focused on increasing system efficiency for a couple of reasons. The first reason is that we want systems that will help us to use less energy because it is good for the environment. Eco-friendly products are becoming a near-constant focus.

The second reason is a little more focused on what we gain specifically. High-efficiency systems use less energy, which also means that they cost less money to operate. It is easy for us to cut down on monthly expenses, particularly during the summer months, when we invest in these systems. These ratings can be incredibly important.

Lifespan
Another key consideration for rating systems is the overall lifespan. While some air conditioners are clearly built to last, others can give out sooner than we would prefer. This is a key point of consideration when choosing a system. A great air conditioner really isn’t all that great if it needs to be replaced in a few short years.

Features

Every air conditioner is different, and ratings often consider what differences matter for certain systems. Each year, new air conditioners are rolled out—and some of them can come with some futuristic features. Better features can drive up the price of a system, but it does also help you to get the most out of your investment, which can be nice.

Customer Experience

Any time that you look at ratings from homeowners online, you will realize that they rate a little differently—for better or worse. The customer experience often plays a key role in determining how their ratings will look from a public standpoint.

The Takeaway

Ratings can tell you a lot about a system, but they don’t always tell the whole picture. You might find that your needs for an air conditioner are different from the needs of your neighbors. While ratings can help us to learn more, it is important to remember that even the top systems can run into issues throughout the years. When they do, Denver air conditioner repair services can be a huge benefit. Knowing who to call can save you time, money, and headaches too!

TIG welding (tungsten inert gas) is the supreme in welding. It takes a good amount of practice, and you need specialized welding equipment to do a good job.

TIG welding has become well-liked among construction professionals because it can be used with any type of metal. You can join copper, stainless steel, and aluminum in a vast range of thicknesses with the TIG welding procedure. Of the different arc welding methods, TIG delivers the greatest quality of weldment.

The welds are neat and accurate. The work is clean and does not produce residue or smoke. The lack of slag decreases the risks of welding imperfections such as slag inclusions which could result in bad weld metal. Unlike standard arc welding, the completed weld needs practically no cleaning.

What Is TIG Welding?

TIG welding is a welding process that uses a non-consumable (tungsten) electrode to heat the workpiece. It then shields the welds with inert gas. TIG welding entails the use of specialized tools. It’s critical to know the fundamental tools that will help guarantee quality welds.

How Does TIG Welding Work

The TIG welding process is also referred to as GTAW (gas tungsten arc welding). Through the TIG welding procedure, an electric arc is produced between the workpiece and a tungsten electrode. The electric arc is powerful but can be conducted superbly.

The basis of any TIG welding operation is the TIG welding machine. This essential tool delivers a controlled electric current needed for fusing and melting metals together. It has an array of adjustable features like pulse capabilities, high-frequency start options, and amperage control.

The TIG process entails creating an electric arc between the part to be welded and a non-fusible tungsten electrode. During this procedure, welders have the option to weld with filler metal or without. The filler metal is usually the same material as the one used in the welding task.

TIG welding necessitates the resource of a shielding gas like argon. During TIG welding, the needed current is transported by the tungsten electrode, the core of the welding process. Tungsten electrodes are the basis of the electric arc which liquefies and heats the material to be welded.

Tools Needed for TIG Welding

Tungsten Electrodes

A crucial element in TIG welding, tungsten electrodes function as the heat source. These non-consumable electrodes, composed of tungsten or its alloys, are recognized for their brilliant thermal resistance and resilience. Beginners typically use pure tungsten electrodes for non-specialized applications, while more seasoned welders might opt for alloyed tungsten electrodes for detailed welding tasks. Tungsten electrodes deliver a stable arc, guaranteeing high-quality welds and exact control.

When a tungsten electrode is used in TIG welding, it controls the current and its shape affects the weld seam. Additionally, it doesn’t melt and has an extended shelf life. The performance of the weld pool can also be swayed by the chemical composition.

The electrodes used consist primarily of tungsten over 99%. Metal oxides are included to boost the electronic emissivity of the electrode and the efficiency. Moreover, there are several types of tungsten electrodes according to the oxides shown with tungsten.

The tungsten electrode is enclosed by a spout through which the gas streams. Therefore, it protects the arc and welding metal from oxidation from the close atmosphere.

Gas Flowmeter/Regulator

Keeping the correct shielding gas flow is critical in TIG welding to shield the weld pool from contamination and guarantee perfect welding environments. A gas flowmeter/regulator accurately regulates the flow of shielding gas, typically argon, to produce a stable and consistent setting. Consistent gas flow regulation stops oxidation, porosity, and other flaws in the weld. Welders should select a flowmeter/regulator with simple and understandable gauges that permit precise gas flow adjustments.

Welding Torch

The TIG welding torch, also referred to as the TIG torch, is the handheld device that keeps the tungsten electrode and releases the shielding gas. As the manual part of the welding machine, it has a vital role in directing the heat and sustaining the right arc length. This guarantees you can carry out accurate welding work precisely on the workpiece.

The TIG welding torch typically holds a tungsten electrode steadied by a clamping sleeve which helps to generate the arc. A torch cap guards the welder from contact with the end of the non-consumable tungsten electrode. A well-crafted TIG welding torch offers an effective cooling system, ergonomics, and easy adjustability to guarantee comfort during lengthy welding sessions. Moreover, a flexible torch with a swivel head allows welders to get to tight spaces and difficult angles easily.

The welding current lead also goes through the torch handle to the tungsten electrode to create the necessary welding circuit. With the assistance of the switch on the handle of the torch, you can turn the torch off and on, therefore stopping and starting the flow of shielding gas, cooling water, and electricity.

Filler Rods

TIG welding usually entails adding filler metal to strengthen joints or get the desired weld characteristics. Filler rods come in many materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

Welders must consider the particular application areas they plan to work on to choose the correct filler rods. For example, stainless steel filler rods are typically used in food processing equipment, while aluminum filler rods are standard for aerospace applications.

The filler metal includes a rod of variable diameter, and the makeup is like the metal being welded. This metal melds with the arc and forms more material during the creation of the weld bead.

Shielding Gas (Argon, Hydrogen, Helium, or Combination)

In most tasks, the gas used is argon. This neutral gas makes it possible to prevent immediate oxidation throughout the melting of the welded metal. It also impacts the making of the arc on the ignition, the form of the bead, and the welding speed. Argon is best for thin metals because of its lower heat requirements.

Helium is also used. Although it makes ignition more challenging, helium increases the arc voltage and therefore, permits vaster penetration and welding speed.

Argon can be combined with hydrogen to get two distinctive results, depending on the wanted goal. When you need to decrease the heat-affected zone (HAZ), adding hydrogen makes it conceivable to lessen the amount of energy needed. This is because hydrogen possesses the property to collect the electron beam radiating from the tungsten, decreasing the width of the weld bead.

For austenitic stainless steels, using a combination of hydrogen and argon enhances productivity by improving penetration and welding speeds.

Safety Clothing and Gear

The use of gas, welding splatters, and welding rays may be hazardous for the welder. This is why the use of safety clothing and gear is vital. Safety must always be the highest priority in any welding job. When buying TIG welding tools, welders should invest in the required protective gear to ensure their safety and well-being.

Safety Goggles

Safety goggles are used for shielding the eyes from hazardous sparks and rays. Welding without wearing safety goggles could subject a welder to flash burns. Another complication of not wearing safety goggles is what is known as “welder’s eye.” This is the feeling of having sand in the eyes and other symptoms like sensitivity to light, reddening, and tearing.

Long Sleeve Shirts, Jackets, and Pants

Fire-resistant and flame-retardant welding long-sleeve shirts, pants, and jackets are crucial for welders to protect and shield their bodies from heat, metal splatter, and sparks.

Leather Boots

Leather boots are a vital part of the safety gear needed for welding. They safeguard welders from welding hazards, sparks, and electrocution.

Welding Helmets

Welding helmets with auto-darkening filters are critical, providing immediate protection from dangerous infrared and UV radiation.

Gloves

Good-quality TIG welding gloves are flame-retardant. Fire retardancy guarantees the gloves can resist high heat. The welding gloves must protect welders from cuts, sparks, heat, and flames. Leather welding gloves are durable and offer the best hand protection.

Sunscreen

The sunscreen welders choose must include zinc oxide to really impede all types of radiation discharged from welding activities. Welders should buy sunscreen that protects against UVB, UVC, or UVA.

The Bottom Line

Investing in the necessary TIG welding tools is critical for welders wanting to embark on a career in the TIG welding sector. The right selection of tools like tungsten electrodes, welding torch, safety gear, filler rods, and gas flowmeter/regulator, guarantees a solid foundation for completing high-quality welds.

By considering the benefits of these essential welding tools, welders can make informed decisions to improve their processes and experience. Practice with the right tools and equipment is critical for developing expertise in the art of TIG welding.

Contact us if you need help with selecting and buying TIG welding tools and equipment. With over 50 years in designing and manufacturing TIG welding tools and equipment, we have the essential tools you need to become an expert TIG welder.

Why is My AC Blowing Warm Air? Causes and Solutions

Your air conditioning system is a crucial part of delivering comfort throughout your home. This is especially true during the hot summer months, but Colorado’s unpredictable climate means you might have days during the chillier months that need the cooling of AC, as well. That means you need your air conditioning system in tip top shape all year long, making maintenance and AC repair in Denver a concern in any month.

When your AC starts blowing warm air, it can be frustrating. Your comfort level was already of concern, and now you’re adding the stress of HVAC repair on top of it. There are a number of different things that can cause your air conditioner to act this way, so it’s important not to jump to the worst-case scenario right away. From minor maintenance to serious system failures, it’s critical to learn how to troubleshoot. This can help you get some solutions to get it running efficiently again right away – or help you understand that it’s time to call in the professionals.

Inspect Your Thermostat

The thermostat is the nerve center of your air conditioning system, so this is the first place to start looking if there is something going on with your AC. If it’s not set correctly or otherwise malfunctioning, it can lead to warmer air coming from your vents. As simple as this sounds, be sure to check whether the settings are currently set to “heat” instead of “cool.” It’s a common mistake that happens more often than you think, and is a very simple fix. Also check the batteries in the thermostat to make sure they still have juice.

There may also be malfunctioning sensors or internal wiring issues going on. If the thermostat is older or you find it’s constantly not working properly, consider upgrading it to a programmable or smart thermostat. These modern upgrades can make a world of difference in the heating and cooling of your home, not only from a convenience standpoint, but from a consistency standpoint, as well. This will enable you to set the temperature of your rooms remotely, and some systems can even adjust the temperature for each room.

Check Your Filters

Another common culprit can be the air filters in your system. Air filters trap the dust, dirt, and other debris that flows through your system to make sure that you maintain good air quality throughout your home. This also plays a key role in making sure your system is performing correctly. When they become clogged, air flow gets restricted, causing the AC unit to potentially overwork itself – causing it to blow warm air.

There can be numerous things that cause these filters to get clogged, but the most common one is just simple passage of time. Your AC unit is working to keep your home comfortable, but it’s also working to make sure the air you breathe is good quality. If you haven’t changed the filter for a while or there hasn’t been regular maintenance on the system, this can cause the filters to clog up. Operating in a dusty environment can also lead to the filters clogging more quickly. Check your filters monthly and replace them every three months or as needed, depending on the usage and manufacturer’s recommendation. Be sure to use high-quality filters that match your system’s specifications.

Watch for Leaks & Freezing

There are a lot of components to your AC unit, and they need to be maintained. If they aren’t properly inspected or maintained, then they can break down like any machine. One of the most vital components of the cooling process is the refrigerant. If there’s a leak, the AC will not have enough refrigerant to cool the air properly. If there has been physical damage to the system, or improper installation, leaks might be more likely to occur. However, even normal wear and tear can lead to refrigerant leaks. If you notice a leak, be sure to call a certified HVAC technician to locate and properly repair the leak.

The evaporator coil is another crucial component, as it absorbs the heat from the indoor air. However, if this coil becomes frozen, it won’t be able to perform its function properly, which can lead to warm air being blown into your home. This can be caused by restricted airflow from dirty filters or blocked vents, or when refrigerant levels get too low. This can also occur if you run the AC unit at too low of a temperature for an extended period of time. To fix this, you must turn off the AC until the coils are completely thawed. Be sure to check and clean your air filter and make sure that all vents are open and unblocked. Be sure to regularly inspect your system to prevent further leaks or freezing up, and consult a technician if problems continue.

Watch for Electrical Issues

The electrical components of the air conditioning system, including the capacitors and relays, play a critical role in its operation. If any of these parts fail or aren’t working optimally, your system can malfunction and blow warm air into your home. The electrical system in your AC unit is sensitive, and can start to not perform as it should through a variety of reasons. Power surges and electrical failures can harm and damage your system, and so can corroded or loose wiring. These parts can also become faulty just through the simple aging process, as well. Consider using surge protectors for your system to help prevent any electrical damage in the future.

Make sure to inspect your circuit breaker and reset it, if necessary. This is another easy fix that often gets overlooked. Do not work with electrical components on your own. Along with the electrical components, your compressor is also vital because it’s responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the entire cooling process is disrupted. This is tied to your electrical system, and can also be caused by common electrical issues. It can also become faulty through simple wear and tear. Schedule an HVAC technician to diagnose replace faulty electrical components.

Dirty Condensers & Compressor Issues

There are some components of your system that might need maintenance because of dirt and dust. Outdoors, the condenser unit is the component that releases heat absorbed from your home. If it becomes dirty or blocked, that heat won’t be expelled properly, which can cause warm air to circulate back inside the home. This blockage doesn’t have to be from dirt, as debris like grass and leaves surrounding the unit can also cause issues. Routine inspections and maintenance around the outdoor unit can go a long way in preventing this type of blockage. Simply remove any debris or vegetation around the unit to ensure proper air flow, and turn off the AC and carefully clean it.

The compressor is another component, and it’s vital to the operation of your air conditioner. The heart of your AC system, the compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant. If it fails, the entire cooling system could be completely disrupted. Many of these issues are caused by electrical issues or overheating, but they can also be caused by imbalances in the refrigerant and simple age-related wear and tear. Schedule a professional inspection to determine if the compressor can be repair or if it needs to be replaced. Annual professional maintenance can help keep your condenser unit and compressor in optimal condition. This regular maintenance can also extend the life of your unit.

Ductwork & Vents

Inside the home, your ductwork is responsible for distributing cooled air throughout your home. If there’s an issue where cooled air isn’t reaching certain areas of your home – or where warm air is mixing with cooled air – it could be a problem with the ductwork. These issues can arise due to leaks or holes in the ductwork, poor insulation in attics or crawl spaces, or ducts that are simply blocked or dirty. Be sure to inspect your ductwork for visible damages or leaks, and make sure those leaks get sealed with sealant or the proper duct tape.

Another key factor in effectively cooling your home is proper airflow. If your vents closed or have something blocking them, that air will not circulate properly. This improper flow of air may lead to warm air building up inside of your home. This can be caused by the vents simply being blocked by furniture, curtains, or other objects obstructing their ability to release the air. This can also be caused by having deliberately closed vents in any unused rooms. This can be fixed by a simple walkthrough of your home to check and make sure all of the vents are unobstructed. Avoid closing too many vents, as it can cause a strain on the system.

Your AC unit may be blowing warm air for any number of reasons. If you feel like you’ve troubleshot the issue but the problems persist, it might be time to get a professional set of eyes on it. It might be as basic as a simple thermostat issue, but it might also be time for a new system. For more information, reach out to the experts at Go Green Heating & Air today.