Category: Home Safety

6 Summer Home Features That Cut Energy Use

 

The move toward passive heating and cooling is growing. It saves money and reduces greenhouse gases. Here are some ways to cut down on heat gains and losses from your home in summer conditions.

Insulation

Insulation slows down heat flow. In winter this means less heat escapes and in summer, it keeps your air conditioner from working overtime. In both cases, you have smaller equipment issues to worry about when building or replacing. Upgrading insulation is a sure-fire way to cut your energy use.

Proper Sealing

If air leaks in around windows and doors, you undo everything your insulation does. Known as infiltration, this air carries moisture in summer and low temperatures in winter, taxing your equipment and wasting energy. Sealing off these locations is a fairly cheap way to cut back on your energy bills.

Window Locations

Curtains and blinds can reduce heat gain and loss depending on their insulating value. Blocking out the sun in summer keeps the space cool even if you have no shading from outside. Trees and foliage outside your window also reduce heat gain in the summer. If you pick the right trees that lose their leaves in winter, you still gain the advantage of winter sunlight heating your home.Shutters, Architecture, Window, House, Wooden,summer

Window Treatments

Window treatments became mainstream in the 1800s, but due to a lack of proper oversight and standards for building and rating furnaces, they fell out of favor in the early 20th century. The National Warm Air Heating and Ventilation Association was created in 1914 to address this and now the majority of homes in North America are heated with furnaces.

Heavy curtains keep the cold in during the dog days of summer, reducing losses from large windows.

Overhangs

Strategically placed overhangs can prevent your large windows from creating large problems in the summer. During this season, the sun is high in the sky. Overhangs that block windows from direct sunlight reduce the heating effect of the sun and keep your cooling bill down. The winter sun’s low path across the sky allows sunlight to enter the room without being blocked by the overhang. 

Type of Glass

Glass performance has two main characteristics: heat transfer coefficient and shading coefficient. The heat transfer coefficient indicates how well the glass prevents heat from flowing through. The shading coefficient affects the sunlight entering the space. A higher shading coefficient keeps more sun out. Glass thickness, the number of panes and coating type all impact these numbers and vary between manufacturers. 

You Still Need Well-maintained Equipment

Even with minimal heat gains and losses, your HVAC equipment needs to run efficiently. To assess ways you can reduce your energy usage and keep your equipment in top shape, give us a call at (877) 552-2326 or  Schedule Service Today!

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Reduce Allergens With Duct Cleaning

If you have allergies, the outdoors can be a minefield of allergens that trigger sneezing, sniffles and congestion. Unfortunately, it can be just as bad indoors, but with the right HVAC maintenance, you can minimize the chance of spending your summer in misery.Allergy, Medical, Allergic, Allergen

One often overlooked maintenance item is duct cleaning. Air systems recirculate most of the air in the house and even if you keep on top of your filter replacement, unwanted particles can remain in your ductwork and make you ill.

Some of these allergens include:

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that are nearly invisible to the naked eye. They are responsible for allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion and coughing. Asthma is also connected to the unwanted presence of these tiny creatures. It’s not the mites themselves that cause the symptoms, but their excretions. They consume dead skin cells and flourish in moist conditions. Reducing the amount of dust in your ductwork will lower the population of dust mites and minimize your exposure to them.

Pet dander

Pets shed dead skin cells just like we do. This is known as pet dander and because of its small, sometimes microscopic size, it remains suspended in the air and accumulates in ductwork. If you have a pet allergy that won’t clear up. Even with extra cleaning and high efficiency filtration, cleaning your ducts might be the answer.

Pollen 

If you think you’re safe from pollen while indoors, think again. Pollen enters homes through open windows and doors, pets that play outside and our own clothes, hair and shoes. Particularly during spring and early summer, these allergens are almost everywhere, including your ductwork.Dandelion, Plant, Close Up, Summer, Macro, Blossom

Viruses and bacteria

While viruses aren’t considered allergies, nothing is worse than having allergy symptoms and another illness at the same time. Viruses and bacteria can accumulate and circulate throughout your home via ductwork that isn’t clean. Dirty ducts are also ideal breeding grounds for microbes, increasing your family’s exposure.

Keeping your ductwork clean

You can do ongoing maintenance of grilles and portions of your ductwork using a vacuum cleaner but at some point, you need more. A professional has the equipment and expertise to remove long-accumulated dust and allergens from your home’s air system. Depending on your sensitivity, you may need to have your ducts cleaned more often but cleaning between heating and cooling seasons is recommended.

If you are concerned about how your home’s ductwork is affecting your allergies (and your overall health), give us a call and we can help you breathe better.

If you’re concerned about your allergies and need to optimize your HVAC system, we can help you assess and make modifications so you can breathe easy!

Give us a call at (877) 552-2326 or go to our  Schedule A Service page.

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How Old is Your Plumbing System?

Plumbing systems might not have many moving parts but they do have a life span. After years of continuous use, your plumbing components need to be replaced.

Here are some signs that you need to upgrade your plumbing.

Your faucets keep leaking

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The components in a faucet are exposed to rushing water several times a day. Switching them on and off also causes wear and tear. You can choose to replace components but there comes a time when it makes more sense to replace it. If you find that it leaks a short time after you repair it, you’re better off with a replacement.

You keep sprouting leaks in your piping
Replacing piping isn’t pleasant. But neither is water damage from a failed system. If you have to deal with leaks in different sections of your piping system, it may be time for an overhaul. You may also benefit from upgrading to safer and more robust piping materials.

Outdoors, Leak, RainYour water looks, smells or tastes funny
If the appearance of your water starts to change and you’ve ruled out municipal supply issues, your pipes may be corroding and leaching into your water. Materials like lead won’t affect the taste or smell but if someone in your home shows symptoms of lead poisoning, you’ll need to replace your piping or fittings.

You see scale buildup
If you see scale buildup on your faucets and shower head, chances are that you have deposits inside your piping as well. Pay attention to whether you start having issues with flow, even after cleaning and flushing. You may need to replace some of your plumbing pipework.

Your sewage system keeps backing up
There are multiple reasons for a backed up sewer but if you’re having reoccurring problems, you may need to replace a portion of your piping. Damaged or collapsed piping can prevent proper flow. The other possibility is that your system might not be sized correctly. If a bathroom was added without the proper assessment and upgrade, the sewage system may become overwhelmed.

Hot water that ain’t so hot
Water heaters need proper maintenance to keep the water at the right temperature. If you keep on top of it, your water heater can last many years. If, however, the temperature starts dropping off, you may want to upgrade to a new, more efficient water heater. You’ll save on utility costs and reduce your frustration.

Talk to a professional about the age of your system and whether it may be time for an upgrade. This applies especially to systems containing toxic materials like lead and zinc. If you need help upgrading your plumbing, give us a call.

 

If you have any plumbing needs, schedule service online, or simply call us at:

(877) 552-2326

 

 

Stay Cool During 4th of July

This weekend we celebrate Independence Day with cookouts, fairs, parades, fireworks and much more. All of this 4th of July fun will have you out and about in the July heat, and it’s important for you to keep cool during this weekend’s festivities. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you don’t get overheated this weekend.

1. Stay Hydrated

Carry water with you everywhere you go. Dehydration can ruin all of your 4th of July fun, but drinking lots of water will keep you going this weekend.

2. Hit the FaucetTap, Black, Faucet, Kitchen, Sink, Interior, Design

Every couple of hours find the nearest faucet and run your wrist under the cool water. Doing this will help you keep your core body temperature under control. There is a main vein that runs close to the surface of the skin on your wrist. Running cool water over this vein will help cool your blood, dropping your core body temperature.

3. Cool Down Your Sunscreen

Stick your sunscreen in the fridge or in your cooler. The lotion will get nice and cold, which will feel great to apply over your hot skin to help lower your core body temperature. Also, try applying cold lotion to the bottom of your feet, it will feel amazing and help cool you down.

4. Incorporate Water Activities

Besides adding a lot of fun to your 4th of July festivities, water activities are a great way to cool down in the summer heat. Hook up a sprinkler to your hose and runthrough the water. Fill a pool (even if it’s just a small one) and splash around. Load up on water balloons and squirt guns. Just make sure there’s lots of water to play in!

5. Take A Break

Don’t get so caught up in all of the 4th of July fun to forget to give yourself a break. Head indoors to enjoy some air conditioning every few hours. The cool air from your AC will feel amazing on your skin and help refresh you.

6. Make Sure Everything is in Working Order

Double check that your sprinklers are working, your hose doesn’t have a hole, your AC has enough Freon, your faucets are running properly and your pipes are free of clogs, before the holiday gets here. You don’t want to be in the middle of your BBQ and discover that your air conditioner just gave out on you or your water supply isn’t flowing like it’s supposed to.

If you’re concerned about the condition of your air conditioner, pipes or have any other plumbing or HVAC concerns, and you would like an inspection from a certified local professional before the 4th of July gets here: schedule an appointment online or give Tiger Services a call today at (877) 552-2326.

If you have any plumbing, heating, cooling or electrical needs, simply call us at:

 (877) 552-2326

Too Many Electrical Concerns? Get Grounded Now!!

A home’s electrical use is something most families rarely make any thought of… until it goes bad. By keeping up to date with maintenance and repair, a homeowner can save thousands of dollars, and thousands of headaches, by nipping potential hazards in the bud. Not only can updating your home’s wiring, breakers, and appliances improve your home’s safety. It can increase the value when it comes time to put it on the market – not to mention saving you a fortune on utility bills!

How to Tell if Your Home Needs an Electrical Update

There are various indicators that your home may need an electrical update. Common signs include the following:

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  • Fuses that blow frequently
  • Tripped breakers
  • Flickering lights
  • Appliances that work inconsistently or not at full power
  • Old, stripped wires

 If you see any of these signs in your home, you have every reason to believe that your system is old and requires attention now. Putting off electric repairs or updates not only puts your family at risk, but it means you’re using more energy than you need to. Pay close attention to electrical panels that are old and to damaged wiring. It is things like these that can easily lead to hazards such as electric shocks and electrocution.

 

Electrical Panel Concerns

Are you looking for a way to get the most out of your home electricity usage? You may need an electrical panel upgrade. Older homes may not always have updated electrical panels because of technology changes. Many people think that homes built in the mid-19th century or before are the only homes that need upgrades. As unbelievable as it may seem, even homes built in the early 2000s may not be equipped to handle the amount of electricity the modern-day household generates.

If you’re installing a new home theater system, a state-of-the-art security system, or you’re adding exterior lighting to your home, it’s possible that your current  panel will not be sufficient enough. Power overloads present real dangers to households and can lead to electrical fires, regardless of how old your home is, if you’re adding major electrical components to your home. As impossible as it may look, they may not set up homes built in the early 2000s to take the amount of electricity the modern-day household generates.

Don’t Attempt Electrical Repairs on Your Own

The value of a professional electrical contractor should never be dismissed. Qualified electricians understand the intricacies of residential systems and know how to make upgrades that are safe and useful. Not all electrical work is rocket science or unsafe, it is still complicated. If you’re not a certified electrician, you could hook up the wiring incorrectly or install a plug the wrong way and end up putting your home’s entire electrical system at risk. The end result of this kind of DIY project is a hefty repair bill.

Always consider allowing practiced and insured electricians, such as those at Tiger Electrical Services, to take care of any upgrades or repairs. Sit back and relax. Why put yourself through an exhausting DIY project when you don’t have to?

Electrical Upgrades and Repairs Increase Your Home’s Value

Modern technology requires households to be plugged in 24/7. Sure, many things like DVR systems, the Internet, and home security systems utilize wireless technology, but you still need a power system to handle the basic electrical components of these various technologies. If you have plans to sell your home in the future, a property that has the ability to keep up with the demands of modern technology will be worth more than a property with an outdated, electrical system.

If you have any electrical needs, simply call us at:

(877) 552-2326

 

Memorial Day Weekend Tips

Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of summer, but the rainy spring weather isn’t ready to let go just yet. There is a lot of rain in the forecast this week and we are all crossing our fingers, hoping that the weather improves before the big holiday weekend. Unfortunately, along with the heavy rain falls, the temperature and humidity levels are also on the rise this week. One thing is clear as we head into Memorial Day weekend; the weather is not on our side. Don’t panic just yet! Here are some steps you can take to help prevent the extreme weather from ruining your holiday weekend.

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1. Avoid a Sump Pump Disaster

Sump pumps are designed to help prevent basement flooding, especially during periods of constant and heavy rainfall. The protection offered by sump pumps is especially important in finished basements with recreation rooms, home offices, bedrooms or rooms storing electronics or valuables. Like all other vital equipment in your home, your sump pump needs regular maintenance to ensure everything is functioning properly and so you can avoid a major disaster.  We’ll be happy to inspect and evaluate your sump pump needs, to give you peace of mind.

2. Battling the Humidity

With the heat rising and the rain falling, dealing with humidity this week is not going to be pleasant. To help you get through this muggy week, try out a few of these easy humidity-busting tricks.

  • Turn on your exhaust fans when bathing, doing laundry or cooking.
  • Cover pots as much as possible when cooking.
  • Use portable fans to improve airflow in stuffy rooms.
  • Take cooler and shorter showers.
  • Make sure all windows and doors are shut tight and that air isn’t able to leak through them.
  • Turn on your air conditioning to improve air flow and lower your home’s temperature.
  • Use a dehumidifier.

3. Make Sure Your AC is ready for the Long Haul

Many people have been holding off on turning on their air conditioners, but the weather this week may mean it’s finally time to flip on that AC. The temperatures will be in the 80’s and the rain and humidity will mean that your windows will need to be closed. You’ll likely need to turn on your air conditioner for some much-needed relief but will your AC be up for the challenge? Air conditioning units require yearly maintenance and inspections to keep them running properly. Call on our expert technicians here at Team Tiger to make sure that your AC can handle the heat.

4. Keep the Power On

Power outages are always a real concern during stormy weather. Having a Whole-Home Standby Generator installed will help you keep the lights on and your AC running during even the most severe weather. A generator is not only useful during stormy spring and summer weather, but it can also come in handy during the winter months if a blizzard blows in. Like your sump pump and AC, generators require yearly maintenance. So if you already have a generator for your home, make sure to have one of our Certified Electricians come out and ensure everything is running properly and safely this season.

Happy Memorial Day!

                                           If you have any plumbing, heating, cooling or electrical needs, simply call us at:

 (877) 552-2326

National Electrical Safety Month

May has arrived! Meaning two things; one, spring is in full bloom and two, it is National Electrical Safety Month! Everyone knows that electricity can be dangerous but you can remove some of that danger by following these electrical safety tips!

Light Bulb, Idea, Creativity, Socket, Light

Electrical Safety Tips for Both Inside and Outside of Your Home:

 

Inside:

  • Don’t run cords under carpets. They can overheat and you cannot see if a cord has become damaged; shock or fire can result.
  • Don’t unplug appliances by pulling on the cord. Grip from the plug and pull to prevent damage to and potential exposure of wires.
  • Appliances with damaged cords increase the risk of electrical shock. Cords that are cut, broken or whose insulation has cracked should be replaced before using the appliance.
  • Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Keep electrical wires and appliances away from water. Use GFCI protected outlets when using appliances or tools near water.
  • If you witness someone receiving an electrical shock, call 911. Never touch someone being shocked unless the electricity has been shut off.
  • Always unplug or disconnect power when working on light fixtures or appliances.
  • Never put your finger in a light bulb socket. Disconnect power before attempting to remove a broken bulb.
  • Never use water to put out an electrical fire. Call the fire department. If an electrical appliance is involved, unplug it first if safe to do so. Use a dry chemical fire extinguisher or baking soda to put out the fire.
  • In homes with small children, unused wall sockets and extension cord receptacles should have plastic safety covers.
  • Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords. Avoid overloading outlets. Plug only one high-wattage appliance into each receptacle outlet at a time.
  • If outlets or switches feel warm, shut off the circuit and have them checked by an electrician.
  • Place lamps on level surfaces, away from things that can burn and use bulbs that match the lamp’s recommended wattage.

 

Outside:

Lightning, Thunder, Lightning Storm, Storm, Energy, electrical

  • Head inside a car or building when you see lightning. Avoid wide open spaces and tall trees since lightning is attracted to the tallest object in a given area.
  • Get out of the water if swimming outside when it’s lightning.
  • Do not attempt to trim tree branches or cut down trees near power lines. Call the power company or an electrical contractor. The voltage carried by overhead wires can travel along objects that come in contact with them and be deadly.
  • Before proceeding with digging deeper than turning the soil in your garden, call your electrical company to ensure no buried cables are in the area. Striking buried lines can cause serious injury or death.
  • Replace or repair loose or frayed cords on all electrical devices.
  • When possible, avoid the use of “cube taps” and other devices that allow the connection of multiple appliances into a single receptacle.

 

Call us at (877) 552-2326, or visit TrustTiger.com to schedule a precision electrical panel tune-up and safety inspection.

 

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What Plumbers Wish You Knew

It’s likely that at some point, you’ll have to call our plumbers in: whether it’s for a leaky faucet, pipe replacement or a new bathroom in your basement. However, you can reduce likelihood of major damage. Here are some ways to reduce the number of visits from plumbers and the severity of your repairs:

Never hang anything from your pipes

The weight can break them and cause a flood. Even if you think it’s something small and light, there’s no guarantee that the pipe can withstand it. You also introduce the risk of the item snagging on a passerby and rupturing the pipe. 

Use a strainer to keep hair and other items from clogging pipes

It might seem easy to let hair and food disappear down the drain but at some point, the accumulated effect will cause it to back up your drainage system. Check drains regularly and remove any items that may have slipped past your strainers.

Be careful what you flush down the toilet

Even items labelled “flushable” like flushable baby wipes can cause a problem. Your best option is to stick to waste and toilet paper. Everything else should be discarded in the garbage. 

Avoid abrasive cleaners that can corrode your pipes

If you’re not sure what material your drain and sewage pipes are made from, have a professional take a look. Harsh cleaners can destroy piping, sometimes so slowly you don’t even know it’s happening until it’s too late. 

Turn off and drain your outdoor faucets before winter arrives

Avoid burst pipes by draining outdoor pipes that can freeze when the temperature falls. These taps have a drain valve that you open to empty the water inside the pipe. Ensure you do it before the cold weather sets in and not after the first freezing night. 

Don’t wait until a leak is severe before calling a plumber

It’s easy to procrastinate when you see the first few drips, but a small leak is much easier (and cheaper) to fix than a flooded house. Not to mention the money you’ll save on your water bill. 

Know the location of your main shutoff valve

Knowing this is not only beneficial for the plumber when he arrives, but can reduce damage if you turn off the main supply as soon as a major leak happens. Take the time to show everyone where it is to reduce the potential for a huge, costly disaster. 

If you want to read any more about what you can do about your plumbing problems, click HERE

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If you need help to keep your plumbing in working order, we can work with you to prevent any issues from happening. Give us a call at (877) 552-2326 or Schedule A Service with one of our plumbers!

How to Stay Aware and in Control of Your Home

Introducing Tiger Home Awareness Solutions

Did I forget to shut the garage door? Was my package delivered? Is my home secure? Homeownership comes with all kinds of questions, concerns and responsibilities. Wouldn’t it be nice if things were a little easier? Be aware with a smart home from Tiger Home Awareness.

Tiger Home Awareness and Automation Solutions will take away many of the worries that come with owning your home. Imagine how much easier it would be to control lights and lock doors with an app on your phone? Or the peace of mind that would accompany the ability to keep an eye on children, elderly relatives or pets when you are not home. How much more secure would your home be if you could monitor and even interact with people who visit your home with a two-way camera? 

Be In Control Anywhere, Anytime

  • First, you will have control of your home’s automation through an app that you can easily install on your Smartphone.
  • Next, conveniently located cameras and sensors will allow you to monitor suspicious activity on your property and the coming and goings of visitors.
  • Furthermore, you can customize alerts that are sent to your phone, which makes it easier to stay up to date on the happenings in your home.
  • And, easily keep an eye on children or elderly relatives while you are away from home. 
  • In addition, go hands-free by utilizing voice command features. 
  • Finally, save money by increasing your home’s energy efficiency. You can save 10%-30% on your energy bills each month with a Smart Thermostat alone!

Special Product Highlights and Benefits:

Tiger Home Awareness Product Line

Video Doorbell

  • Speak to anyone visiting your home with two-way communication on demand.
  • Intelligent sound and motion detectors will alert you to suspicious activity or unwanted visitors.
  • Receive 30-second video clips to your phone immediately if an alarm is triggered.
  • Up to seven-day video, storage plans are available. Plus there is a built-in SD card for added backup storage capabilities.

 Wifi Home Protection Monitors

  • Wireless Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors will alert you to potentially dangerous situations in your home.
  • Wifi Water Leak and Freeze Detectors will provide early alerts to leaky or frozen pipes.
  • Wireless Wifi Sirens will help keep your home safe and secure when you are out and about.

Home Awareness & Automation Products

  • You will never have to worry if you left your garage door open or not, ever again!
  • Our Garage Door Controller and Sensor will allow you to be in complete control.
  • Turn your house lights off and on, using only your phone with a special app.
  • Unlock or lock your door from anywhere, with a touch of a button.
  • And Much More!

The first 3 Customers to purchase a System will receive half off the installation!
Call Now, This Deal Won’t Last!

(618) 307-4911

or feel free to check us out online at

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Home Improvement Projects Where You Should Skip the DIY and Call a Professional

DIY projects can be fun and a great way to increase your home’s value; however, some home improvement projects are better left to the professionals. Safety, cost and timeliness are just some of the concerns to consider when deciding whether or not to do a project yourself or call in a pro. Check out this list of home improvement projects that are not meant to receive the DIY treatment.

DIY

Projects That Are Not Made For DIY

1. Electrical Updates

Outdated electrical components and wiring pose many problems for homeowners in terms of safety and convenience. While upgrading an electrical panel, wiring, adding more outlets and other updates are great home improvement projects, they are also dangerous. Electricians spend a great deal of time learning how to handle electricity safely and properly. So, when it comes time to upgrade your home’s electrical work, it is best to call in the professionals here at Tiger!

2. Roofing

Repairing or replacing a home’s roofing is a monumental task that is better left for licensed professionals. DIY roofing projects are extremely dangerous and often quite costly, calling the pros when a new roof is needed is the best way to go.

3. Plumbing Work

Even the smallest plumbing repairs can go extremely wrong, extremely quickly. Imagine the mess an improperly installed toilet or piping could make. Avoid the hassles of leaks, water damage and sanitation issues by calling one of our expert plumbers to handle all of your plumbing needs.

4. Adding an Additional Bathroom 

Who wouldn’t love an extra bathroom in their home? The added convenience Adding a bathroomand home value makes the idea of adding another bathroom appealing. However, building an additional bathroom is not an easy DIY project to take on yourself. Hanging drywall, laying tile and installing fixtures often require a professional’s touch to get them right. Running new plumbing lines, hooking up the water supply, wiring the space and placing ductwork are tasks that can be dangerous and expensive when done incorrectly. When it comes to adding a new bathroom, it is best to leave it to the pros.

5. Structural Changes

Licensed professionals are vital when it comes to making structural changes to your home. Some projects will require special permits, depending on where you live, a  licensed pro should know what is needed. Knocking down walls without knowing what damage it will cause is extremely dangerous. Other projects may weaken your home’s foundation. These types of projects will go more smoothly when left to the professionals.

When deciding whether or not to give a home improvement project the DIY treatment, consider these important questions.

  • Is this project worth the time and effort I will have to put into it?
  • Do I have the necessary tools and skills to do this project correctly?
  • What are the safety issues I should consider?

DIY projects can be fun; however, it is often best to leave the larger or more dangerous projects to the professionals.

Home Improvement

If you have any plumbing, heating, cooling or electrical needs, simply call us at:

(866) 844-3770

or feel free to check us out online at

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