Recycling Changes Start July 5, 2010

RecycleBank
Image by michael feagans via Flickr

There are new recycling processes starting in Ann Arbor in July.  Go to this website to learn about it.  Here is some of the info copied directly from the site.  Be sure to check the City of Ann Arbor site for changes.

The City of Ann Arbor is reconfiguring its recycling plant to accept an expanded range of materials from residents, schools, and businesses. The city is also partnering with RecycleBank to provide rewards and incentives to households that recycle.

  • What is single-stream recycling? Single stream recycling allows residents and businesses to put all their recyclable materials in one convenient wheeled recycling cart.  No recyclables will be collected outside the recycling carts.  Trash will still be put in a separate cart.   The attached video clip (created by RecycleBank) provides a generic overview of the process.
  • What new materials will be accepted? All plastic bottles and tubs (except #3/PVC and biodegradable plastics/PLA) will be added. Large bulky plastic items, such as laundry baskets and buckets will be accepted. For more details, open to a new Web page here,
  • What materials will not be accepted? Polystyrene foam (Styrofoam™), #3 (PVC) plastics, biodegradable/PLA plastics, and plastic bags will not be accepted. Ceramics, porcelain, batteries, used motor oil and oil filters will no longer be accepted.
  • When will single-stream recycling begin in Ann Arbor? Single-stream recycling will begin on Monday, July 5, 2010 for residents and partipating businesses. On that date you will be able to recycle all the additional plastics and other materials mentioned above. The new recycle carts will not arrive immediately for everyone.  Please continue to use your existing recycling stacking bins until you have received your new cart.  You will be able to blend all the recyclable materials in your existing stacking bins effective July 5, 2010.
  • Will I get a new recycling container? New, free recycling carts will be delivered to each residence over a 6-8 week period in July-August 2010 with approximately 1000 carts/day delivered along neighborhood routes.  Businesses will be able to place all materials to be recycled in their current recycling carts and “papers only” recycling dumpsters. Apartment complexes will receive new or refurbished carts, depending on the age of the current containers.
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Why Is My Water Reddish?

One of 39 downtown fire hydrants painted by st...
Image via Wikipedia

According to the city of Ann Arbor’s water utility department your water may be a bit reddish after they have flushed out a fire hydrant near your house. It is harmless.  And …

Not to worry!  Just let your COLD tap water run until it comes out clear.  If you run the hot water it can get into the water heater and last longer.

The red water is basically rust that loosens up when they flush the fire hydrants.

If this happens to get into your laundry and discolors it, according to the City you can use a product called “Rover” to get the stains out.

Got a water question?  Call the City of Ann Arbor’s water department, not your landlord: (734) 794-6350.

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Should I Close Windows During a Rain Storm?

Rain storm
Image via Wikipedia

Preventing Damage From Rain Can Save You Cash

During the summer in Ann Arbor, Michigan it can get fairly warm.  Leaving the windows open, especially at night will help cool the house down.  But what if it really starts raining hard during the middle of the night?  Should you close your windows?

Some older houses have huge roof overhangs which can help keep rain out of windows during a storm.  In some rainstorms their is no wind and the rain come straight down.  In these situations it might be fine to leave the windows open.

When there is a strong breeze or wind and the rain is obviously coming into the window you probably should shut them tight.  If water gets into the house or on the sill, please dry off the water and soak up any puddles on the floor or carpet.

If you have trouble drying out your house after a rain storm call your landlord for help.  Drying the house can prevent water damages that you will have to pay for if the situation is neglected.  Your landlord has resources to help in all kinds of situations and wants to help you maintain your rental house for your enjoyment and also for the next person that lives there.

Also if you notice any fallen trees, downspouts or gutters that are not working correctly your landlord wants to know and will be very great-full for the information.

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