Thursday 24 February 2011
Busy busy...headche....
Wow 11 more days to collect my keys.Got to move out of my current house by 06th March,packing 80% done.Packing is easier,just dump everything inside the box,wonders how unpacking will be like,guess,it will be more tiring.Movers decided.Contractors decided.Aircon will be meeting the salesperson on saturday.Later going to JB to buy lightings and mum's ceiling fan.Friday,appointment with ID on tiles,laminate.Sunday..My Rest day after 7 days of night shift.Perhaps Sunday will be packing and shopping day.Can't believe we had come this far,I know mum feel sad leaving the house and me too..it's been 15 years we live in this house,with lots of memories.Guess on moving day,got to get ready some tissue in case tears start to swell my eyes lol.Look at the future,hope for the best,New beginning,be thankful as some people can't even afford to buy a house.Hope this will be my motivation to keep me moving.This reno process is gonna be fun.and exciting as what my reno buddy,Yati said..lol.Hope everything goes well...
Tuesday 22 February 2011
Curtain Tips
juz to share with you guz on my experience with curtains and advices from many aunties who used and had curtain experience.
1st, to save money if you have a budget, is to buy ready made curtain. ready made curtain are not as bad as what we think they are. there are some really nicely done up ones.
2nd, installation of rods and racks are usually quite standard.
pricing ranging from S$3.50 - S$6 for normal wood rod. anything above S$6 is those fancy and nicer looking wood rod. but do bare in mind, normally visitors don't juz stand there and admire your curtain wood rod.
S$3.50 for rack type.
3rd, nowadays the in type is using organza for day curtain. similarly, in the past, ppl use lacy type or abit lacy type for day curtain. so if you don't mind, abit lacy type is worth your money if you are doing custom made. it has a english country feel.
4th, consider the durability of the material. for organza, it can be scratched, meaning you will see the fabric string been pulled or stretch juz like silk. so do consider this factor. can your curtain materials be machine washed or do you need to send for laundry service? izt easily cleaned or stained?
5th, do not only consider abt asthetic factor. did you guz consider how are often are you and how are you going to wash your curtains? usually, you will throw in your washing machine and wash but if its a too thick and heavy type, i think your washing machine will hv a hard type washing it clean.
6th, and how many sets of curtains are you going to hv? some may think 1 set is enough. but if its spoiled or washed, do you need changing curtains?
7th, steps to ask for curtain quotation:
a) measure your window size
b) measure your window + the top, bottom, left and right wall size
c) look up yellow pages and send them fax / emails / call them up for quotation
d) go to those shops to view their ready made curtains sample and custom made sample
e) go to nieghbourhood curtain shops, some may offer vy gd price and advice
8th, sizes do matter.
generally, half length and 1 layer of nite curtain only cost lesser.
other alternatives:
1) buy materials from spotlight, arab street textile shops etc., and get ppl to sew for you
2) diy yourself
3) go JB to buy
1st, to save money if you have a budget, is to buy ready made curtain. ready made curtain are not as bad as what we think they are. there are some really nicely done up ones.
2nd, installation of rods and racks are usually quite standard.
pricing ranging from S$3.50 - S$6 for normal wood rod. anything above S$6 is those fancy and nicer looking wood rod. but do bare in mind, normally visitors don't juz stand there and admire your curtain wood rod.
S$3.50 for rack type.
3rd, nowadays the in type is using organza for day curtain. similarly, in the past, ppl use lacy type or abit lacy type for day curtain. so if you don't mind, abit lacy type is worth your money if you are doing custom made. it has a english country feel.
4th, consider the durability of the material. for organza, it can be scratched, meaning you will see the fabric string been pulled or stretch juz like silk. so do consider this factor. can your curtain materials be machine washed or do you need to send for laundry service? izt easily cleaned or stained?
5th, do not only consider abt asthetic factor. did you guz consider how are often are you and how are you going to wash your curtains? usually, you will throw in your washing machine and wash but if its a too thick and heavy type, i think your washing machine will hv a hard type washing it clean.
6th, and how many sets of curtains are you going to hv? some may think 1 set is enough. but if its spoiled or washed, do you need changing curtains?
7th, steps to ask for curtain quotation:
a) measure your window size
b) measure your window + the top, bottom, left and right wall size
c) look up yellow pages and send them fax / emails / call them up for quotation
d) go to those shops to view their ready made curtains sample and custom made sample
e) go to nieghbourhood curtain shops, some may offer vy gd price and advice
8th, sizes do matter.
generally, half length and 1 layer of nite curtain only cost lesser.
other alternatives:
1) buy materials from spotlight, arab street textile shops etc., and get ppl to sew for you
2) diy yourself
3) go JB to buy
Please Cool Me Down...Inverter or Non-Inverter Air Conditioner
Non Inverter
The compressor and its motor are manufactured to operate at constant speed or single speed only. In simple terms, it is either in the on (Full Power) or off (No Power) mode.
Therefore for Non Inverter, you will actually feel the air conditioner blowing cold air one moment and normal wind at another.
Due to this operating principle, the electrical consumption is higher and the compressor tends to spoil more easily because of the frequent start-stop. And there is no part load capabilities.
1) Orginally, Non Inverter air con uses only one big compressor linking to a few indoor units. Thus no matter how many rooms u use, you are always using the full capacity of the compressor. This is actually very inefficient. For example, the electrical comsumption will be the same when using 1 room and 3 rooms.
2) But as technology improved, most of the Non Inverter air conditioners in the market are using 2 compressors. For example, a System 3 will have 1 compressor of 8500 btu and the other at 12000 btu. The 8500 btu will be connected to 1 indoor unit while the 12000 btu will be connected to 2 indoor units. Therefore when operating 1 room, you will be using only 1 compressor.
** If you are using the 2 indoor units that are connected to the 12000 btu compressor, you will only get max 6000 btu each. **
3) May it be new or old, as long as it is a Non Inverter, you will get the 'cut in' and 'cut out' of the compressor. In other words, everytime the room reaches the pre-set temperature, the compressor will stop working. And when it senses an increase in temperature, it will start running again. Thus through out the night, you will experience the 'start and stop' of the compressor. In addition to that, the temperature will fluctuate as the indoor unit changes from 'COOL' to 'FAN' mode accordding to the 'start - stop' of the compressors.
4) Due to the frequently start-stop of the compressor, more eletricity will be comsumed as more power is needed to start the system all over again whenever it stopped. In addition, the compressor will also have a shorter life span.
5) Most Non Inverter Multi Split Systems have 'standard' combinations. For example, Sys 3 will be 9+9+9. When you required other combinations, you usually have to pay more as it may require a high capacity outdoor unit. And the largest indoor unit capacity for Multi Split System is 12k btu.
** For some brands, the largest can be 18k but usually it requires a higher capacity of compressor. The compressor capacity should never be smaller than the highest indoor unit capacity individualy **
So why not just have the Inverter and phase out the Non Inverter?Price is the main reason. The difference can range from $600 to $800. Therefore for owners that do not have a habit of using air conditioner every night, it may be more worthwhile getting a Non Inverter air conditioner.
But do consider the following factors before making the final decision
a) the Electrical Tariffs might rise in the future.
b) your air conditioning usage might increase when your family gets more members.
c) you may be so used to sleeping in an air conditioned environment thus it becomes a habit even when it is raining outside.
d) the air conditioner might last longer than 5 years.
** These do not apply to those who have too much money and dun know where to spend **
What is an Inverter?
It is a power conversion circuit that is able to regulate the current, voltage and frequency of a device
Then what is an Inverter Air Conditioner?
This circuit board is able to vary the frequency of the motor which in turn control the revolution of the compressor. Therefore the compressor speed can be adjust to meet the cooling load neccessary. And with continous, precise and fast feedback process, changes in cooling load will be responed effectively thus minimising temperature fluctuation.
So how does an inverter saves electrical bills?This is because of its part load capabilites. After an inverter air conditoner attains the set temperature, instead of 'switching off' like a non inverter, it uses the minimum power to ensure your room is maintain at the required temperature and adjust smoothly with response to any changes in the cooling load. Overall, you use less electricity.
But an Inverter air con costs more than a Non Inverter. Then why should I get an Inverter instead of a Non Inverter?1) Because an Inverter is more energy efficient. Strictly speaking, you should calculate the 'breakeven period' or 'simple payback period'. If it falls within 5 years, then it will more economical to purchase an Inverter now.
2) When you lived in an old HDB with 8.5amp or 11amp current limit. But you want to install a System 4 for 3 bedrooms and 1 living. But a System 4 usually runs at a current of 11amp and above. Accordding to HDB regulations, you cannot install more than 1 outdoor unit or any outdoor unit having a running ampere of more than 8.5 or 11.
Therefore the only solution is to go for an inverter with variable current settings.
3) When you want a special combination like 15K+12K+9K. Only inverter allows you to choose the indoor unit combination freely.
4) When you cannot stand the outdoor unit noise level. Go get an inverter QUICK! Inverters are generally quieter in terms of outdoor unit than Non Inverters.
5) When you do not like anything that is using older technology. Tech Savy!!!!
Summary of Inverter Air Conditioners
1) Are generally of higher quality especially those using R410A refrigerant.
2) Has longer compressor life span.
3) Are very much quiet.
4) Will reduce your electrical consumption especially when using for long periods.
A SIMPLE COMPARISON
Intelligent Inverter
Eco Patrol Sensor
Advanced+Plus e-ion Air Purifying System
12,000 BTU
The compressor and its motor are manufactured to operate at constant speed or single speed only. In simple terms, it is either in the on (Full Power) or off (No Power) mode.
Therefore for Non Inverter, you will actually feel the air conditioner blowing cold air one moment and normal wind at another.
Due to this operating principle, the electrical consumption is higher and the compressor tends to spoil more easily because of the frequent start-stop. And there is no part load capabilities.
1) Orginally, Non Inverter air con uses only one big compressor linking to a few indoor units. Thus no matter how many rooms u use, you are always using the full capacity of the compressor. This is actually very inefficient. For example, the electrical comsumption will be the same when using 1 room and 3 rooms.
2) But as technology improved, most of the Non Inverter air conditioners in the market are using 2 compressors. For example, a System 3 will have 1 compressor of 8500 btu and the other at 12000 btu. The 8500 btu will be connected to 1 indoor unit while the 12000 btu will be connected to 2 indoor units. Therefore when operating 1 room, you will be using only 1 compressor.
** If you are using the 2 indoor units that are connected to the 12000 btu compressor, you will only get max 6000 btu each. **
3) May it be new or old, as long as it is a Non Inverter, you will get the 'cut in' and 'cut out' of the compressor. In other words, everytime the room reaches the pre-set temperature, the compressor will stop working. And when it senses an increase in temperature, it will start running again. Thus through out the night, you will experience the 'start and stop' of the compressor. In addition to that, the temperature will fluctuate as the indoor unit changes from 'COOL' to 'FAN' mode accordding to the 'start - stop' of the compressors.
4) Due to the frequently start-stop of the compressor, more eletricity will be comsumed as more power is needed to start the system all over again whenever it stopped. In addition, the compressor will also have a shorter life span.
5) Most Non Inverter Multi Split Systems have 'standard' combinations. For example, Sys 3 will be 9+9+9. When you required other combinations, you usually have to pay more as it may require a high capacity outdoor unit. And the largest indoor unit capacity for Multi Split System is 12k btu.
** For some brands, the largest can be 18k but usually it requires a higher capacity of compressor. The compressor capacity should never be smaller than the highest indoor unit capacity individualy **
So why not just have the Inverter and phase out the Non Inverter?Price is the main reason. The difference can range from $600 to $800. Therefore for owners that do not have a habit of using air conditioner every night, it may be more worthwhile getting a Non Inverter air conditioner.
But do consider the following factors before making the final decision
a) the Electrical Tariffs might rise in the future.
b) your air conditioning usage might increase when your family gets more members.
c) you may be so used to sleeping in an air conditioned environment thus it becomes a habit even when it is raining outside.
d) the air conditioner might last longer than 5 years.
** These do not apply to those who have too much money and dun know where to spend **
What is an Inverter?
It is a power conversion circuit that is able to regulate the current, voltage and frequency of a device
Then what is an Inverter Air Conditioner?
This circuit board is able to vary the frequency of the motor which in turn control the revolution of the compressor. Therefore the compressor speed can be adjust to meet the cooling load neccessary. And with continous, precise and fast feedback process, changes in cooling load will be responed effectively thus minimising temperature fluctuation.
So how does an inverter saves electrical bills?This is because of its part load capabilites. After an inverter air conditoner attains the set temperature, instead of 'switching off' like a non inverter, it uses the minimum power to ensure your room is maintain at the required temperature and adjust smoothly with response to any changes in the cooling load. Overall, you use less electricity.
But an Inverter air con costs more than a Non Inverter. Then why should I get an Inverter instead of a Non Inverter?1) Because an Inverter is more energy efficient. Strictly speaking, you should calculate the 'breakeven period' or 'simple payback period'. If it falls within 5 years, then it will more economical to purchase an Inverter now.
2) When you lived in an old HDB with 8.5amp or 11amp current limit. But you want to install a System 4 for 3 bedrooms and 1 living. But a System 4 usually runs at a current of 11amp and above. Accordding to HDB regulations, you cannot install more than 1 outdoor unit or any outdoor unit having a running ampere of more than 8.5 or 11.
Therefore the only solution is to go for an inverter with variable current settings.
3) When you want a special combination like 15K+12K+9K. Only inverter allows you to choose the indoor unit combination freely.
4) When you cannot stand the outdoor unit noise level. Go get an inverter QUICK! Inverters are generally quieter in terms of outdoor unit than Non Inverters.
5) When you do not like anything that is using older technology. Tech Savy!!!!
Summary of Inverter Air Conditioners
1) Are generally of higher quality especially those using R410A refrigerant.
2) Has longer compressor life span.
3) Are very much quiet.
4) Will reduce your electrical consumption especially when using for long periods.
A SIMPLE COMPARISON
THE SELECTED ONES
Intelligent Inverter+Eco Patrol Sensor
The Intelligent Inverter regulates the compressor’s rotational speed to deliver cost-efficient, energy-saving performance at all times. The new Eco Patrol responds intuitively to the level of human presence and activity, and adjusts cooling power for maximum comfort and maximum savings. The Intelligent Inverter with Eco Patrol gives energy savings of up to 60%*. * Comparison between an Inverter model with Eco Patrol and a non-Inverter model without Eco Patrol – both operating for two hours. The Intelligent Inverter saves 50%, Eco Patrol adds an additional 10% for 60% energy savings.
Advanced+Plus e-ion Air Purifying System
The Advanced+Plus e-ion Air Purifying System with Patrol Sensor monitors the air, and effectively deactivates more than 99%* of harmful micro-organisms for cleaner and healthier air.
My choosen Quotations
The price quite hefty though,wanted to buy the non-inverter but thinking in future,saving electricity in long run is a plus point,With 4 ticks..saving electrics why not...
Panasonic$2930 nett (free $200 NTUC vouchers, while stock last)
- Panasonic inverter system 3 CU3S27MKZ (new) / CSS12MKZ + CSS9MKZ X 2 (12kbtu + 9k btu X 2)
- 1/2 inch Armaflex class "1" insulation- G23 copper pipe
- 13mm drainage pvc pipe
- free 2 trips installation
- free dismantle of old air-con
- One year warranty for worksmanship & air-con equipments. Five years warranty for compressor
The price quite hefty though,wanted to buy the non-inverter but thinking in future,saving electricity in long run is a plus point,With 4 ticks..saving electrics why not...
Coffee table No Match :[
Looking back at my coffee table I place order,it seems it's a bit too complicated to go with the sofa.Planning to cancel my coffee table and get another one online with a designer look with reasonable price :] What do you think?
Nice squarish design but too blunt
This look unique and seem nice to blend with my sofa,although small but I have my dining table behind..
+
Lightings made me go Mad!!!
Last week when to JB, bought 3 nos 60" ceiling fans with led light (white and blue).With 8 speed and remote control and cos me $399RM which is about SGD$157 each!!! Luckily we went through the custom and no need to pay tax :]
To be place at my dining area....my dining set will be black whole wall will be while and the L-Box cornice will accompany this light..call "ANGEL 36061" the model name.It looks gorgeous....
It's a DEKA brand made in Malaysia according to the sales assistant just pay around $35 for transport for servicing in Singapore.Dunno whether it's true but a $157 ceiling fan with lights and remote make me go WOW...lol..btw it's 5 years warranty and 10 years on motor..Like the design because it have black blade,one for my room,living room,guest room,mum's will choose another model though...
wanted this chandelier original price RM$980..now RM$580 which is around SGD$247 for a crystal chandelier??? OMG..lol.Their PLC 6" downlights cost RM$40 with 2 tube light around SGD$16...
After discusiing with my reno buddy and commented by my sister in law that for modern contemporary design might not match so I thought of the lights below,get the source from online lighting shop in Singapore and the price is very reasonable :]
unique standing light,designer look with reasonable price
Designer lights which can change direction of the bulb..cool huh
So I made my choice dining light buy online and PLC downlights,rest of the lights to buy in JB this coming thursday..unless JB got cheaper dining light..maybe I would buy lol
Tuesday 15 February 2011
Wall clock
Sunday 13 February 2011
Back to 'business'
After the long CNY weekends,after mum kelantan trip.After my Cambodia trip..now back to reality..to resume back on my reno works.This time will be busy,stress and full of worry for the next weeks and months coming..tmr will mak arrangement with my ID to visit my new place to do site measurement,discussion on alterations to current plans,etc...Hope the ID I had picked is a realible person..Anyway if it not too late..'GONG XI FA CAI' :)
Friday 4 February 2011
3.82% interest for HDB 2nd loan????
Yup that's what I get during my 1st appointment.This will be my 2nd HDB loan the officer told me the interest rate for my new resale flat will pegged at 3.82%.it sounds crazy and bank rates can offer cheaper than that.I've asked the officer why I was pegged at 3.82% instead of the normal 2.6% but he seems not be able to explain so I guess maybe it's up to HDB discretion on the amountloan granted and their interest rates.So after a few days I tried to call the HDB mainline..to check on my resale application status..n suddenly I just query again on the interest rate.I have spoken to 2 different officers and their reply is the same.According to them even for 2nd HdB loan,I will still have a conssesiorary rate of 2.6%.I was shocked to hear this and they told me to talk to my officer in charge.when my officer called me I ask him again how come my interest is pegged at 3.82% instead of 2.6% and he just answered yes.mine at 3.82%.so I asked him gain for 2nd time explaining to him I'm using my 2nd Hdb loan and the loan they offered is higher than certain banks.then finally he said hold on for a while.he finally then said "ohh I can do it for you straight away to 2.6% so when are you free to come down again"...
The things I have learnt sometimes people do makes mistakes even how high his/her position is.If you feel something is not right and you have done your part to ask around,question them again.if my officer don't give my 2.6% interest rate I would have see MP to appeal on my case.Confirmed the officer will be in trouble.lol.since he had given me the interest rate that's mean I will have lower monthly installment,I will just let the matter rest :)
The things I have learnt sometimes people do makes mistakes even how high his/her position is.If you feel something is not right and you have done your part to ask around,question them again.if my officer don't give my 2.6% interest rate I would have see MP to appeal on my case.Confirmed the officer will be in trouble.lol.since he had given me the interest rate that's mean I will have lower monthly installment,I will just let the matter rest :)
A CNY short break
Mum had left for kelantan yesterday..not kelantan lane but kelantan/terranganu in Malaysia..lol only left me to do the packing haizz...kinda lazy...after mum be back on Sunday,it's my turn to leave for my Cambodia trip on 07/03 Monday...few more days to go but dunno why I don't feel excited this time..maybe I'm occupied with my house thingy for these past 1 month and was excited more on my house reno journey than my cambodia trip..but I have fly off since tickets been bought perhaps the short trip will give me more ideas on my reno plan...lol..Anyway wishing A prosperous Lunar New Year and a Happy ling weekend to all..Gong Xi Fa Cai... :)
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