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	<title>Maintenance Services Direct</title>
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	<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/</link>
	<description>&#34;Single Source Maintenance &#38; Repair&#34;</description>
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	<title>Maintenance Services Direct</title>
	<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/</link>
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	<item>
		<title>The Top 10 Essential Gardening Tools Every Gardener Should Own</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/the-top-10-essential-gardening-tools-every-gardener-should-own/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=the-top-10-essential-gardening-tools-every-gardener-should-own</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 08 Jun 2019 19:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[2019]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guidance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Essential]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gardener]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tools]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=2056</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Whether it is a Home garden or a community garden you cannot do much gardening without the proper gardening tools. Gardening tools are essential for carrying out many jobs in and around the garden, jobs such as cutting grass, trimming trees, shrubs and hedges, planting flowers, removing trees, digging the soil, watering plants etc. There are certain tools necessary to have a healthy and well looked after garden. Although there are many tools available in gardening stores we will consider&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/the-top-10-essential-gardening-tools-every-gardener-should-own/">The Top 10 Essential Gardening Tools Every Gardener Should Own</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whether it is a Home garden or a community garden you cannot do much gardening without the proper gardening tools. Gardening tools are essential for carrying out many jobs in and around the garden, jobs such as cutting grass, trimming trees, shrubs and hedges, planting flowers, removing trees, digging the soil, watering plants etc.</p>
<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2058 size-full" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Gardening-Tools.png" alt="The Top 10 Essential Gardening Tools Every Gardener Should Own" width="640" height="460" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Gardening-Tools.png 640w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Gardening-Tools-300x216.png 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Gardening-Tools-474x342.png 474w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Gardening-Tools-300x216@2x.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></p>


<p class="wp-block-paragraph"> There are certain tools necessary to have a healthy and well looked after garden. Although there are many tools available in gardening stores we will consider the 10 essential garden tools that every DIY gardener needs. </p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The obvious tool missing from the list below is the Lawn Mower. We assume you either already own a lawn mower or don&#8217;t require one so we have omitted this from the list. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trowel</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The first essential item on your list should be a trowel that is well made. Whether it is container garden or a large bed, a trowel is necessary to get your seedlings and plants into the soil quickly and easily.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hoe</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A hoe with a long handle helps a gardener handle difficult tasks easily. It is used to help keep the weeds from your garden. This is accomplished by using the hoe to remove weeds when they start to grow.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Careful use of the hoe will help in removing weeds without damaging  the roots of your existing plants. Hoe heads come in many shapes and sizes and  you can make your choice based on the size of your garden or personal preference. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hand fork or cultivator</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Hand forks are ideal for loosening the soil and cleaning up the beds.  It helps to cultivate the soil, work amendment or fertiliser into your soil, and chop up any clumps.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">They are absolutely essential in beds that are closely planted. It cuts the compacted hard soil smoothly and is also very useful for aerating, clearing the moss and thatching.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Flower beds and vegetable plots can be easily prepared by using a hand fork or cultivator.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hand pruners or pruning shears</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">It is wise to invest in a pair of good quality pruning shears or secateurs, as they are also known. These come in various types and sizes depending on the type of job. They are useful for pruning branches of smaller diameters.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">They are very useful for trimming bushes and shrubs. Trimming regularly will make your shrubs bushy and in the desired shape and size.  They are very useful for rose plants that require regular pruning.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Also fruit and other trees in your garden which require pruning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Watering can and nozzles</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A watering can with a nozzle that creates a fine spray of water is essential for gently watering seedlings and sprouting seeds, over a large area, without washing them away. Choose one with a long nozzle so that you can reach into heavily planted areas with ease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A spading fork</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A spading fork or gardening fork, is a wonderful garden tool necessary for transplanting and aerating. You can also use it to split ornamental grasses  and perennials. In fact, you cannot divide and dig perennials without  using a heavy duty spading fork. It can also be beneficially used as a mulch fork, manure fork, and for sorting hay.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shovels and spades</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Shovels and spades come in many different shapes and sizes. The hand  hold also comes in shapes like a “T” or a “D”. These are necessary for  planting trees, shrubs, moving the soil, breaking the soil and many other jobs throughout the garden.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Spades are very useful for turning the soil and a shovel will help in picking up dug out soil and the disposable of items from your garden. Their blades should be sharp in order to accomplish the jobs easily.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wheelbarrow or Garden Cart</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Again wheelbarrows also come in different shapes and sizes and you have a wide variety to choose from. You cannot do without one especially if your garden is of a decent size. With it you can carry almost anything and everything.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Whether it is for hauling soil from one part of the garden to another, transporting dirt and cement or for transporting common gardening items like compost, plants, mulch, tools or hoses, you will find the wheelbarrow extremely handy.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Without a wheelbarrow you will have to make frequent trips back and forth around the garden which can be really exhausting.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gardening gloves</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Even if you like the feel of soil it is imprudent to work in the garden without proper gloves. Gardening gloves also come in a lot of varieties and materials to best suit the application.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The type you choose will depend on the type of work involved. Leather
 gloves are good but you cannot use them when handling water or liquid 
chemicals.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Thus you may need more than one type of glove. Make sure that the pair fits you snugly or you may have to deal with blisters. Also make sure they are prick proof when you are handling rose bushes or other thorny plants.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The simple fact is that you must choose wisely.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Garden hose</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">You can’t do gardening without water. You will need a good quality garden hose if you don’t want to get exhausted transporting a lot of water. In fact it is the easiest way to transport lots of water quickly and effortlessly.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The best hoses for this purpose are those having 3 or 4 ply thickness and come with brass or metal fittings. Coiled type of hoses need less storage  space. They may be a bit more expensive but they are easier to store and  transport.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">You can also use drip irrigation or soaker hoses if you don’t have the time to water the plants yourself.</p>


<hr>
<p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75"></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/the-top-10-essential-gardening-tools-every-gardener-should-own/">The Top 10 Essential Gardening Tools Every Gardener Should Own</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>Spring Summer Weekend Offer 2019</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/spring-summer-weekend-offer-2019/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=spring-summer-weekend-offer-2019</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2019 07:16:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[2019]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discount]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Offer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Spring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Summer]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=2024</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>spring summer weekend offer 2019 &#8211; Maintenance Services Direct are pleased to bring the following offer to NEW and EXISTING customers in the Domestic Sector (offer valid on Weekend cuts Only). *Order our lawn cutting services 4 times throughout 2019 and receive a 5th cut on us FOC **Terms and Conditions apply Offer Code: Spring Summer Weekend Offer 2019 ** Terms and Conditions *Lawn area must NOT exceed 120m². *The length of the lawn must not exceed 4 inches (100mm&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/spring-summer-weekend-offer-2019/">Spring Summer Weekend Offer 2019</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<blockquote>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;"><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2025 size-large" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/buy-4-get-1-free-1024x238.png" alt="spring summer offer 2019" width="700" height="163" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/buy-4-get-1-free-1024x238.png 1024w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/buy-4-get-1-free-300x70.png 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/buy-4-get-1-free.png 1882w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/buy-4-get-1-free-300x70@2x.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
</blockquote>
<p>spring summer weekend offer 2019 &#8211; Maintenance Services Direct are pleased to bring the following offer to NEW and EXISTING customers in the Domestic Sector (offer valid on Weekend cuts Only).</p>
<p>*Order our lawn cutting services 4 times throughout 2019 and receive a 5th cut on us FOC **Terms and Conditions apply</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-2026 size-full" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Lawn-Mowing-Maintenance-Services-Direct.jpg" alt="Maintenance Services Direct spring summer offer 2019 offer" width="1140" height="480" data-temp-aztec-id="cbadaba4-23b3-4405-8936-1f764878c447" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Lawn-Mowing-Maintenance-Services-Direct.jpg 1140w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Lawn-Mowing-Maintenance-Services-Direct-300x126.jpg 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Lawn-Mowing-Maintenance-Services-Direct-1024x431.jpg 1024w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Lawn-Mowing-Maintenance-Services-Direct-300x126@2x.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1140px) 100vw, 1140px" /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Offer Code: Spring Summer Weekend Offer 2019</h3>
<h4>** Terms and Conditions</h4>
<ol>
<li>*Lawn area must NOT exceed 120m².</li>
<li>*The length of the lawn must not exceed 4 inches (100mm or 10cm) prior to Maintenance Services Direct commencing with lawn mowing activities.</li>
<li>*The Lawn must be suitable for mowing, No debris, rubble, be suitably flat and free from humps and dips, must not be of a gradient of more than 20 degrees.</li>
<li>*Free cut includes one pass of the lawn mower and basic edge trimming only.</li>
<li>*Free cut does NOT include any repairs, over seeding, weed removal or aeration/fertilizing of the lawn.</li>
<li>*This offer is only valid for lawn mowing services carried out on the weekend (Saturday or Sunday) during the year 2019.</li>
<li>All 4 cuts plus the free cut must be taken during the year of 2019 and cannot be rolled over.</li>
<li>All 4 cuts must be taken and paid for prior to the free cut.</li>
<li>Only one offer per customer (existing customer or new).</li>
<li>This offer has no monetary value and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.</li>
<li>Maintenance Services Direct <span class="st"><em>reserve the right to withdraw</em>, modify, discontinue or terminate this offer at <em>any time without prior notice. </em></span></li>
<li>We reserve the right to deny, withhold, revoke or withdraw your entitlement to this promotion at our discretion.</li>
<li>We reserve the right in our sole discretion to deny you from any or all future promotions.</li>
<li>To qualify for this offer, the lawn to be mowed must be within a 20 mile radius of our business address, however, this offer may be open to customers/lawns outside this area at our discretion. fuel and traveling costs may be applicable.</li>
</ol>
<p>To view our section on Gardening services please click <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/services/gardening-services/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a></p>
<hr />
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call Us" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Us - Mobile" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency Call Out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/spring-summer-weekend-offer-2019/">Spring Summer Weekend Offer 2019</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Customer Relationship Management</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/customer-relationship-management/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=customer-relationship-management</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Feb 2019 20:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CRM]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CRM System]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Customer Focus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Customer Relationship Management]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Improvements]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1992</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Back in late 2018 Maintenance Services Direct started an ambitious project to Design and manufacture a bespoke CRM System (Customer Relationship Management System) to allow us to centrally control every aspect of our business activities and bring a more customer driven experience. Our hope is to bring this system fully mobile so that our engineers are able to access it from site (restricted access) and update our system on a live basis. We are well underway with this project and&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/customer-relationship-management/">Customer Relationship Management</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Back in late 2018 Maintenance Services Direct started an ambitious project to Design and manufacture a bespoke CRM System (Customer Relationship Management System) to allow us to centrally control every aspect of our business activities and bring a more customer driven experience. Our hope is to bring this system fully mobile so that our engineers are able to access it from site (restricted access) and update our system on a live basis.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2003" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-System.jpg" alt="" width="728" height="364" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-System.jpg 728w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-System-300x150.jpg 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-System-300x150@2x.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 728px) 100vw, 728px" /></p>
<p>We are well underway with this project and hope to bring the completed system live in the coming months. This CRM System will allow us to give the customer a quicker and more streamlined approach to their requirements and allow Maintenance Services Direct to provide quotations, job completion notes, invoices etc via email, direct to the customers inbox which will further help us reduce our impact on the environment by reducing our use of paper and ink.</p>
<p>The bespoke CRM system will also allow us to better control historical record keeping of purchases, job completion notes, quotations, invoices etc.</p>
<p><div id="attachment_2019" style="width: 710px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2019" class="wp-image-2019 size-large" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-SYSTEM-1024x492.png" alt="Customer Relationship Management" width="700" height="336" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-SYSTEM-1024x492.png 1024w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-SYSTEM-300x144.png 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-SYSTEM.png 1920w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/CRM-SYSTEM-300x144@2x.png 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><p id="caption-attachment-2019" class="wp-caption-text">Maintenance Services Direct &#8211; CRM System</p></div></p>
<p>Maintenance Services Direct also have a <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/services/database-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maintenance Database</a> which we are able to tailor to our customers exact requirements to allow full control of maintenance related records.</p>
<hr />
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call Us" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Us - Mobile" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency Call Out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/customer-relationship-management/">Customer Relationship Management</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>Happy New Year</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/happy-new-year/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=happy-new-year</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 2018 20:45:17 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2019]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Happy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Year]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1959</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We are on the last day of 2018 so we would like to take this opportunity to wish ALL of our customers, friends, family and anyone currently reading this post a Very Happy New Year 2019.  We hope that the coming year is a healthy, happy and prosperous one. We give thanks to our customers for their business during this past year and hope to offer the same help and support through the coming year. We would also like to&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/happy-new-year/">Happy New Year</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are on the last day of 2018 so we would like to take this opportunity to wish ALL of our customers, friends, family and anyone currently reading this post a Very Happy New Year 2019.  We <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1961 " src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Happy-New-Year-300x196.png" alt="" width="276" height="180" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Happy-New-Year-300x196.png 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Happy-New-Year.png 400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 276px) 100vw, 276px" />hope that the coming year is a healthy, happy and prosperous one.</p>
<p>We give thanks to our customers for their business during this past year and hope to offer the same help and support through the coming year. We would also like to thank our suppliers for their help and support.</p>
<p>We are very excited about the challenges that 2019 will bring and looking forward to the relationships we hope to build with new customers and suppliers as well as building on the current relationships we hold.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/happy-new-year/">Happy New Year</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>Website and email migration</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/website-and-email-migration/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=website-and-email-migration</link>
					<comments>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/website-and-email-migration/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Oct 2018 15:00:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Guidance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Email]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Migration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Server]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[website]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1946</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Hi and welcome to our blog post for October 2018. In the following post we would like to inform both our current and future customer/visitors that we are currently starting a migration process for our website and emails from our existing provider to a new, faster and better provider. Maintenance Services Direct has taken this step to help bring a quicker and improved experience to the user and to help keep our already high levels of security. We have carried&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/website-and-email-migration/">Website and email migration</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hi and welcome to our blog post for October 2018.<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1949 size-medium" src="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Website-and-Email-migration-300x167.jpg" alt="Website and Email migration" width="300" height="167" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Website-and-Email-migration-300x167.jpg 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Website-and-Email-migration.jpg 540w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
<p>In the following post we would like to inform both our current and future customer/visitors that we are currently starting a migration process for our website and emails from our existing provider to a new, faster and better provider.</p>
<p>Maintenance Services Direct has taken this step to help bring a quicker and improved experience to the user and to help keep our already high levels of security. We have carried out extensive research into the market over the past few months to find the best and most cost-effective provider currently available that will provide the levels of service we require and our customers have come to expect.</p>
<p>Both the uptime and speed of our website will be improved by switching to our new provider and this switch will also bring increased expansion possibilities in the future.  Our website and email server will now be hosted on SSD (Solid State Drive technology) drives and within the UK.</p>
<p>We hope for this migration process to be fully completed by end of December 2018 with minimal impact to the customer/visitor.  If, however you feel that our level of service is not performing as required please DO NOT hesitate to drop us a line and we will work tirelessly to correct any issues that arise.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Once again, we would like to take this opportunity to thank both our existing and future customers for their patience and understanding on this matter. We as a company continually strive to bring the customer a new and better level of service and work tirelessly to achieve our goals at all times.</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/website-and-email-migration/">Website and email migration</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>Garage door lubrication</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/garage-door-lubrication/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=garage-door-lubrication</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2018 19:00:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guidance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Garage Door]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Inspection]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lubrication]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1919</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door in 8 simple steps Your garage door lubrication and inspection is just as important to your house as your roof or windows and is quite expensive to replace, but why is it very few households get it maintained? Many homeowners will carry out annual checks of their roof for loose or slipped tiles, missing and broken slates etc. However, when it comes to garage door maintenance too many people are missing it out altogether.&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/garage-door-lubrication/">Garage door lubrication</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong>Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door in 8 simple steps<br />
</strong></h2>
<p>Your garage door lubrication and inspection is just as important to your house as your roof or windows and is quite expensive to replace, but why is it very few households get it maintained?</p>
<p>Many homeowners will carry out annual checks of their roof for loose or slipped tiles, missing and broken slates etc.</p>
<p>However, when it comes to garage door maintenance too many people are missing it out altogether.</p>
<p>This is extremely worrying given that the garage door can on many occasions offer another form of access to the home and a broken garage door can be a huge inconvenience to say the least. Garages also tend to contain tools, gardening equipment, bicycles and may other expensive items. In some cases, a broken or damaged garage door can also be potentially very dangerous (who likes a bang to the head?).</p>
<p>There are however some simple checks that you can easily perform yourself or with a colleague to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your garage door and to help ensure maximum security.</p>
<p>Here are 8 simple ways to inspect/maintain and lubricate your garage door properly:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<h3><strong> Visual inspection</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>When the door is closed, look over the arms, springs, cables, hinges and rollers for visible signs of wear and tear. Are any of the cables fraying? Has anything become loose? If anything looks worn call in your local garage door specialist.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li>
<h3><strong> Oil the parts (Garage Door Lubrication)</strong><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1922 size-full" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Lubricate-garage-door-spring.jpg" alt="Maintenance Services Direct - Garage Door Lubrication" width="300" height="201" /></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>This is the most basic of maintenance tasks. It keeps the door running smoothly and stops the door creaking and squeaking. Apply a small amount of lithium-based spray lubricant to the door hinges, rollers, pivot points and the lock.<br />
Just doing this can extend the life of your garage door by many years.</p>
<p>If your garage door has an opener such as a chain or drive screw, lubricate this too.</p>
<ol start="3">
<li>
<h3><strong> Clean the garage door track</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Instead of lubricating the track, it just needs cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris and then spray a solvent like WD-40 on the track as it is a great grease cutter. T<span data-dobid="hdw">horoughly</span> clean the entire track being careful around entrapment points and watching out for sharp edges. It is also good practice to place some old newspaper etc on the floor to catch any dirt, debris or cleaning solution that may fall.</p>
<ol start="4">
<li>
<h3><strong>Check that the system is balanced</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Before you do anything, make sure that the garage door is closed and the automatic opener system (if fitted) is disconnected. Now lift the door manually- it should remain fully open and lift with ease. If it’s difficult to open, the door may be out of balance and should be serviced by a professional.</p>
<ol start="5">
<li>
<h3><strong> Perform a reversing mechanism test</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>If your door is equipped with an automatic opener system, you need to check the reversing mechanism. When the door is open, place something in the centre on the floor where the garage door would normally touch. It can be anything like block of wood or a cardboard box.</p>
<p>Activate the door opener’s transmitter or push button and when the door hits the object it should automatically reverse. If it doesn&#8217;t reverse we recommend seeking help from a professional garage door specialist.</p>
<ol start="6">
<li>
<h3><strong> Perform a photo cell test</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>If your door is equipped with an automatic opener that has a photo cell safety system, operate the door in the close direction and then wave an object e.g. a broom or a tennis racquet in front of the door’s photo eyes. The object should break the beam and reverse the door.</p>
<p>If it doesn’t, close the door and clean the photo eyes with a dry, soft cloth do not use any harsh chemical cleaners as this may damage the photo cell beyond repair. Make sure the photo cell eyes are aligned accordingly. If in doubt seek help from a professional.</p>
<ol start="7">
<li>
<h3><strong> Exterior check</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Give the outside of the door a clean with a SOFT cloth/sponge or brush. Simply rinse with a bucket of water or a hose. If your door is made out of wood, examine the paintwork to see if it needs to be re-painted/stained or varnished.</p>
<ol start="8">
<li>
<h3><strong> Check the weather seals</strong></h3>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Weather seals can help make your garage more eco-friendly and save money on your energy bills. If you haven’t already, install some weather seals to the bottom edge of the door.</p>
<p>If you perform any of these checks and something appears to be wrong, we advise you to get it examined by a professional. Never stand or walk under a moving door, and never allow your kids to play with or use the garage door or opener controls.</p>
<p>Alternatively, if there is anything you are unsure about, leave it alone and hire a trained technician to inspect the garage door for you. You can pay for an annual service for a small fee and usually if there are any small problems, they will fix them there and then.</p>
<p>Still not sure about garage door lubrication? Call us today on 01384 231 211 or 07973 502814 for help and assistance on looking after your garage door.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservices.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/garage-door-lubrication/">Garage door lubrication</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>Help in the Community</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/help-in-the-community/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=help-in-the-community</link>
					<comments>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/help-in-the-community/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 Jun 2018 11:40:06 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[volunteer]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1846</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Maintenance Services Direct are reaching out in the local Community to offer help by Volunteering some of our time to help people or organisations who are in need. Over the coming weeks and months we are embarking on a &#8220;Help in the Community&#8221; project and we will begin to send letters, emails and messages out along with speaking to people to offer our services. We are looking to help local charities, community centres, church groups and general members of the&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/help-in-the-community/">Help in the Community</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1896 size-full" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/community.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct - Help in the Community" width="535" height="180" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/community.png 535w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/community-300x101.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 535px) 100vw, 535px" /></p>
<p>Maintenance Services Direct are reaching out in the local Community to offer help by Volunteering some of our time to help people or organisations who are in need. Over the coming weeks and months we are embarking on a &#8220;Help in the Community&#8221; project and we will begin to send letters, emails and messages out along with speaking to people to offer our services.</p>
<p>We are looking to help local charities, community centres, church groups and general members of the public etc to see if we can offer an helping hand with any projects that they may have. We are going to offer our services FOC (Free of Charge) but regret that this offer is limited to our labour, ANY items or consumables would have to be purchased by the group or person receiving the help.</p>
<p>We have limited time available for this project and the limited time we do have will be out of normal working hours (Monday to Friday 8.00 &#8211; 17.00) due to our current work commitments (this may change due to us offering a 365 days 24 hr service including emergency call outs).</p>
<p>We are going to start by offering around 1 &#8211; 2 weekends or up to 8 evenings per month with the hope that we can offer more of our time in the future to this project.</p>
<p>If you are reading this post and would like to see if we can help you or your community please drop us a line or use the contact form which can be found on our Contact US page.</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservices.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/help-in-the-community/">Help in the Community</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>History of Electricity</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/history-of-electricity/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=history-of-electricity</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Apr 2018 20:00:18 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electricity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1826</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Starting with Ben Many people think Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity with his famous kite-flying experiments in 1752.  Franklin is famous for tying a key to a kite string during a thunderstorm, proving that static electricity and lighting were indeed, the same thing. However, that isn’t the whole story of electricity.  Electricity was not “discovered” all at once.  At first, electricity was associated with light. People wanted a cheap and safe way to light their homes, and scientists thought electricity might&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/history-of-electricity/">History of Electricity</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Starting with Ben<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1828 size-medium" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Benjamin-Franklin-History-of-Electricity-1-249x300.jpg" alt="History of Electricity - Benjamin Franklin" width="249" height="300" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Benjamin-Franklin-History-of-Electricity-1-249x300.jpg 249w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Benjamin-Franklin-History-of-Electricity-1.jpg 746w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Benjamin-Franklin-History-of-Electricity-1-249x300@2x.jpg 498w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px" /></h2>
<p>Many people think Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity with his famous kite-flying experiments in 1752.  Franklin is famous for tying a key to a kite string during a thunderstorm, proving that static electricity and lighting were indeed, the same thing. However, that isn’t the whole story of electricity.  Electricity was not “discovered” all at once.  At first, electricity was associated with light. People wanted a cheap and safe way to light their homes, and scientists thought electricity might be a way.</p>
<h3>A Different Kind of Power: The Battery</h3>
<p>Learning how to produce and use electricity was not easy. For a long time there was no dependable source of electricity for experiments. Finally, in 1800, Alessandro Volta, an Italian scientist, made a great discovery. He soaked paper in salt water, placed zinc and copper on opposite sides of the paper, and watched the chemical reaction produce an electric current. Volta had created the first electric cell.</p>
<p>By connecting many of these cells together, Volta was able to “string a current” and create a battery.  It is in honour of Volta that we rate batteries in Volts.  Finally, a safe and dependable source of electricity was available, making it easy for scientists to study electricity.</p>
<h3>A Current Began</h3>
<p>An English scientist, Michael Faraday, was the first one to realize that an electric current could be produced by passing a magnet through a copper wire. It was an amazing discovery. Almost all the electricity we use today is made with magnets and coils of copper wire in giant power plants. Both the electric generator and electric motor are based on this principle. A generator converts motion energy into electricity. A motor converts electrical energy into motion energy.</p>
<h3>Mr. Edison and His Light<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1835 size-medium" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Thomas-Edison-History-of-Electricity-4-223x300.png" alt="" width="223" height="300" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Thomas-Edison-History-of-Electricity-4-223x300.png 223w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Thomas-Edison-History-of-Electricity-4.png 490w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Thomas-Edison-History-of-Electricity-4-223x300@2x.png 446w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 223px) 100vw, 223px" /></h3>
<p>In 1879, Thomas Edison focused on inventing a practical light bulb, one that would last a long time before burning out. The problem was finding a strong material for the filament, the small wire inside the bulb that conducts electricity. Finally, Edison used ordinary cotton thread that had been soaked in carbon. This filament didn’t burn at all—it became incandescent; that is, it glowed. The next challenge was developing an electrical system that could provide people with a practical source of energy to power these new lights. Edison wanted a way to make electricity both practical and inexpensive. He designed and built the first electric power plant that was able to produce electricity and carry it to people’s homes.</p>
<p>Edison’s Pearl Street Power Station started up its generator on September 4, 1882, in New York City. About 85 customers in lower Manhattan received enough power to light 5,000 lamps. His customers paid a lot for their electricity, though. In today’s dollars, the electricity cost $5.00 per kilowatt-hour! Today, electricity costs about 12.7 cents per kilowatt-hour for residential customers, about 11 cents for commercial, and about 7 cents per kilowatt-hour for industry.</p>
<h3>The Question: AC or DC?</h3>
<p>The turning point of the electric age came a few years later with the development of AC  (alternating  current) power  systems.  Croatian scientist, Nikola Tesla came to the United States to work with Thomas Edison.  After a falling out, Tesla discovered the rotating magnetic field and created the alternating current electrical system that is used very widely today. Tesla teamed up with engineer and business man George Westinghouse to patent the AC system and provide the nation with power that could travel long distances –  a direct competition with Thomas Edison’s DC system. Tesla later went on to form the Tesla Electric Company, invent the Tesla Coil, which is still used in science labs and in radio technology today, and design the system used to generate electricity at Niagara Falls.</p>
<p>Now using AC, power plants could transport electricity much farther than before. While Edison’s DC (direct  current) plant could only transport electricity within one square mile of his Pearl Street Power Station, the Niagara Falls plant was able to transport electricity over 200 miles!</p>
<p>Electricity didn’t have an easy beginning. While many people were thrilled with all the new inventions, some people were afraid of electricity and wary of bringing it into their homes. They were afraid to let their children near this strange new power source. Many social critics of the day saw electricity as an end to a simpler, less hectic way of life. Poets commented that electric lights were less romantic than gaslights. Perhaps they were right, but the new electric age could not be dimmed.</p>
<p>In 1920, about two percent of U.S. energy was used to make electricity. In 2015, with the increasing use of technologies powered by electricity, it was almost 40 percent.</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/history-of-electricity/">History of Electricity</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>Types of Lubrication</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/types-of-lubrication/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=types-of-lubrication</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Feb 2018 21:27:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guidance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Grease]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lubricant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lubrication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oils]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1803</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Types of Lubricants and How to Use Them Almost everyone as heard of Lubricant in one form or another, Do you have that door that makes an annoying squeak everytime you open it? Do you have that sticky padlock on you garden shed or outbuildings? How about a stiff or hard to open window? Dont rush out just yet and grab the WD-40 (Other lubricants are readily available). One of the most common applications or uses for a lubricant is&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/types-of-lubrication/">Types of Lubrication</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 style="text-align: center;">Types of Lubricants and How to Use Them</h2>
<p>Almost everyone as heard of Lubricant in one form or another, Do you have that door that makes an annoying squeak everytime you open it? Do you have that sticky padlock on you garden shed or outbuildings? How about a stiff or hard to open window? Dont rush out just yet and grab the WD-40 (Other lubricants are readily available).</p>
<p>One of the most common applications or uses for a lubricant is to reduce friction between two or more surfaces, but did you know that not all lubricants are equal?</p>
<p>The following guide will give you a little understanding of some of the most common forms of lubricant and some of their uses.</p>
<h2>Oils</h2>
<p>Oils are generally thin liquids manufactured from Long Polymer Chains with the addition of various additives to each bring different properties to the oil. Some of the most common additives include antioxidants to help prevent the oil from oxidizing, corrosion inhibitors to prevent parts from corroding and detergents can also be added to help stop deposits from forming.</p>
<p>The Long Chain Polymers withing the oil are hard to squeeze out when placed between surfaces, making oils useful as a slippery barrier between them.</p>
<p>Oils come in varrious different viscosities such as 5W or 10 W, this can also be reffered to as &#8220;WEIGHT&#8221; or &#8220;WEIGHTS&#8221;.  The lower the number the THINNER the oil and the easier it will flow.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Uses for Oils<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1815 size-full" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Lubricants.png" alt="Types of Lubrication - Oils" width="347" height="254" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Lubricants.png 347w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Lubricants-300x220.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 347px) 100vw, 347px" /></h4>
<ul>
<li>Hinges</li>
<li>Bearings</li>
<li>Maintenance of Tools</li>
<li>Sharpening blades</li>
</ul>
<h4>Types of Oils</h4>
<ul>
<li>Motor Oil</li>
<li>3 in 1 oil</li>
<li>Sewing machine oil</li>
<li>Chain Oil</li>
<li>Penetrating oil</li>
</ul>
<h4>When to use Oils</h4>
<ul>
<li>Lubrication is required without the resistance often associated with using Grease.</li>
<li>You need lubrication to wick or flow into a small space, without the need to take anything apart.</li>
</ul>
<h4>When NOT to use Oils</h4>
<ul>
<li>DO NOT use Oils if the area is to be exposed to dust or dirt, This will eventually gum up and create more friction which could result in premature wear.</li>
<li>There is a requirement to keep the surrounding area CLEAN, this is because oils are generally LOW in viscosity and have a tendancy to drip or run.</li>
<li>The surfaces are exposed to water or anything that could wash the oil away. Oils are often thought of as water resistant but they will actually absorb water over time, the more water absorbed the lower its adhesion will be, this will result in the oil being washed off the parts that require lubrication.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Greases</h2>
<p>Greases are manufactured from Oil (typically Mineral Oil) and then mixed with thickeners such as lithium based soaps. Additional lubricating particles are often added to help improve the Grease or make it suitable for a particular application. Typical Lubritcating particles include Polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), Molybdenum Disulfide and Graphite.</p>
<p>Greases offer a combination of the properties of Oils with added stickiness which allow the Lubricant to adhere to the surfaces better and resist wash off. Greases come in a range of consistencies from a consistancy similar to double cream to thicker versions. Greases offer better protection of the surface being lubricated because they stop any dirt or dust from reaching the surface and causing premature damage.</p>
<p>There is however a trade off because of the thick and sticky nature of Greases, this can cause resistance in small or fast moving mechanisms.</p>
<h4>Uses for Greases</h4>
<ul>
<li>Chains</li>
<li>Linkages</li>
<li>Bearings</li>
<li>Gears</li>
</ul>
<h4>Types of Greases</h4>
<ul>
<li>Marine Grease</li>
<li>Lithium Grease</li>
<li>Silicone Grease</li>
</ul>
<h4>When to use Greases</h4>
<ul>
<li>Use when you need the lubrication to stay put and stick to the surfaces over a longer period</li>
<li>You use a machine or mechanism so infrequently that you may forget to Oil it</li>
<li>There is a requirement to keep out contaminants such as dirt, dust or water.</li>
</ul>
<h4>When NOT to use Greases</h4>
<ul>
<li>When there is a requirement to keep the area or surrounding parts clean as Grease as a tendency to fling off as the parts move</li>
<li>When you have fine or fast moving mechanisms where thick grease would create too much resistance.</li>
</ul>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1817 size-full" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Grease.png" alt="Types of Lubrication - Greases" width="1080" height="228" srcset="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Grease.png 1080w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Grease-300x63.png 300w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Grease-1024x216.png 1024w, https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Types-of-Grease-300x63@2x.png 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></p>
<h2>Penetrating Lubricants</h2>
<p>Most Mechanics or Mechanical engineers would place the Penetrating Lubricants high on their MOST USED list due to the excellent job they do. Penetrating Lubricants are most usefull when loosening stuck Bolts/Nuts, Shafts, Gears etc. They are also good at penetrating through years of rust and debris.</p>
<p>Penetrating Lubricants are not designed to offer long term lubrication because of their Low Viscosity and the additives that are designed to infiltrate the tiny cracks and holes between surfaces such as screw threads.</p>
<p>Many different Penetrating Lubricants (Oils) are on the market today which are often expensive when brought in smaller volumes. You can however make your own Pentrating Lubricants that perform as well as the most common Penetrating Lubricant WD-40 at loosening stuck Nuts/Bolts.</p>
<p>To make your own Pentetrating Lubricant you will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>Vegetable Oil</li>
<li>Acetone (Often used as Nail Polish remover)</li>
<li>Glass or Metal mixing container (<span style="color: #ff0000;">BE EXTRA CAREFUL</span> when mixing as Acetone is <span style="color: #ff0000;">FLAMMABLE</span> and will melt many plastic containers)</li>
<li>Sealed container to keep the finished product in.</li>
</ul>
<p>To make your own Penetrating Lubricant simply mix 90% vegetable Oil with 10% Acetone.</p>
<p>Prior to use give it a little shake as Vegetable Oil and Acetone tend to seperate over time.</p>
<h2>Dry Lubricants</h2>
<p>Lubricating Particles such as PTFE, Silicone, Graphite and Molybdenum Disulfide make up Dry Lubricants. These particles are extremly small at Molecular level and are very slippery, therefore they reduce the friction between surfaces in contact with each other. Dry Lubricants are most commonly found in Aerosol form mixed with a solvent of some sort that will evaporate away after application thus leaving a thin film of Dry Lubricant behind.</p>
<h4>Uses for Dry Lubricants</h4>
<ul>
<li>Locks</li>
<li>Hinges</li>
<li>Printer rails</li>
<li>Threaded Bar or Rods</li>
</ul>
<h4>Types of Dry Lubricants</h4>
<ul>
<li>PTFE Spray</li>
<li>Silicone Spray</li>
<li>Graphite Powder or Spray</li>
<li>Molybdenum Disulfide Spray</li>
</ul>
<h4>When to use Dry Lubricants</h4>
<ul>
<li>Lubrication of tiny parts that shouldn&#8217;t be gunked up by Greases or Oils</li>
<li>When there is a requirement to keep surrounding areas clean</li>
<li>High temperature surfaces or High pressures which would typically oxidize Oils</li>
</ul>
<h4>When NOT to use Dry Lubricants</h4>
<ul>
<li>When surfaces are exposed to water or solvents that can wash Dry Lubricants away.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h5>Disclaimer</h5>
<p>The above guide is meant to offer an insight into a small selection of Lubricants available today and is in no way a recommendation. Maintenance Services Direct can NOT be held responsible for any damage or injury to Persons or equipment.</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/types-of-lubrication/">Types of Lubrication</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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		<title>We are expanding our services</title>
		<link>https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/we-are-expanding-our-services/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=we-are-expanding-our-services</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Jeff Payne]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Dec 2017 18:59:58 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Facts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Painting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Refurbishment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[services]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/?p=1712</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We are expanding our services &#8211; Maintenance Services Direct believe in bringing the customer a full and comprehensive range of services to try and meet as many of there requirements as possible. We are therefore delighted to now provide a Painting and Decorating service to customers in the Domestic, Commercial and Industrial sectors. We are able to carry out our customers exact requirements and provide both Interior and Exterior Painting and Decorating. We can provide Painting and Decorating services in&#8230; </p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/we-are-expanding-our-services/">We are expanding our services</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We are expanding our services &#8211; Maintenance Services Direct believe in bringing the customer a full and comprehensive range of services to try and meet as many of there requirements as possible.<a href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Painting-and-Decorating.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-1713 size-full" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Painting-and-Decorating.jpg" alt="We are expanding our services - Painting and Decorating by Maintenance Services Direct" width="243" height="207" /></a></p>
<p>We are therefore delighted to now provide a Painting and Decorating service to customers in the Domestic, Commercial and Industrial sectors. We are able to carry out our customers exact requirements and provide both Interior and Exterior Painting and Decorating.</p>
<p>We can provide Painting and Decorating services in conjunction with our existing range of services to give the customer a &#8220;Single Source Maintenance and Repair&#8221; provider.</p>
<p>Further information is available on our range of Painting and Decorating services on our new website page which can be found <a href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/services/painting-decorating-services/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HERE</a> or via the navigation bar above.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<hr />
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-991 size-full" title="Maintenance Services Direct" src="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/MSD-Logo.png" alt="Maintenance Services Direct Logo" width="195" height="75" /></p>
<h3>Maintenance Services Direct</h3>
<p>If any of the services listed above are of interest to you or you require any maintenance, cleaning or repairs not listed above please <a title="Contact Us" href="http://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a> on <a title="Call 01384 231211" href="tel:01384231211">+44 (0)1384 231211</a> or <a title="Call Maintenance Services Direct" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a> or email us on <a title="Email Us" href="mailto:enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk?subject=Enquiry: Maintenanceservicesdirect.co.uk">enquiries@maintenanceservices.co.uk</a></p>
<p>We also have a 24hr emergency call out on <a title="Emergency call out" href="tel:07973502814">+44 (0)7973 502814</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk/we-are-expanding-our-services/">We are expanding our services</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.maintenanceservices.co.uk">Maintenance Services Direct</a>.</p>
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