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6 common smartphone charging mistakes to avoid

6 common smartphone charging mistakes to avoid
Charging the smartphone has become such a mundane task in everyone’s life. However, many people don’t know that they could be making several mistakes while doing so, causing the battery to drain faster than it should and making the phone less efficient. Despite the task looking deceivingly simple, there is a lot that goes into perfecting technology. These nuances determine the charge cycles of one’s phone, determining the battery’s lifespan. 1. Leaving the charger in the socket One of the most common mistakes people make with their chargers is letting them remain in the sockets. This plugged-in charger keeps drawing electricity, causing a significant rise in one’s energy bills. If the room is humid enough, this can also result in the transformer short-circuiting and catching fire. Always unplug the charger and stow it away when not in use to stay safe. This will help save on energy costs and keep the home safe. 2. Letting the battery die completely before charging it again Today, all smartphones use lithium-ion batteries with a set number of charge cycles. Letting the phone’s battery die completely affects this cycle, impacting its longevity. To avoid this issue, don’t let the phone’s battery reach 0% before charging it.

6 mistakes to avoid when using debit cards

6 mistakes to avoid when using debit cards
As many parts of the world are steadily moving toward a cashless economy, debit cards are becoming highly popular and accepted modes of payment. These cards can be used for shopping at all major retail stores and withdrawing money instantly. Also, most debit cards offer lucrative benefits, such as rewards, cashback, and no annual fees. But to get the most out of debit cards, it is important to avoid certain mistakes. 1. Using too many debit cards As different banks offer different deals and benefits on debit cards, many tend to use multiple cards to benefit from a variety of offers. But such deals and offers come with additional fees, so, the more cards one has, the higher the aggregate fee one would have to pay. These extra charges can increase the expenses. So, it’s best to have a maximum of three cards to avoid spending too much money on fees. 2. Using debit cards for big purchases A debit card uses the funds deposited in the cardholder’s bank account. So, if one tries to pay an amount that exceeds the total balance in the account, the transaction may bounce. For this reason, it’s best to use a credit card for large transactions so that one can repay the amount flexibly until the deadline.

6 benefits of cruise insurance

6 benefits of cruise insurance
Traveling on a cruise is an exciting experience to try at least once in a lifetime. A cruise offers a range of amenities for adults and children, including live music, concerts, water activities, and delicious meals. However, embarking on a cruise means that one will be away from home for at least a day or two, if not longer. Having cruise insurance can help address various situations that may arise while on board the ship. Last-minute cancellation refunds One might have to cancel a cruise trip at the last minute for various reasons, including a family or health emergency. However, cruises have terms and conditions that may prevent the issuance of a refund. If one is faced with this situation, one might lose all the money spent on the cruise package. However, having a cruise insurance plan could offer complete reimbursement or credits. Coverage for missed cruises Sometimes, one might need to fly to a city to board a cruise. If the flight gets canceled due to extreme weather conditions, there is a high chance one may miss their cruise and not get a refund in the process. In such situations, signing up for travel insurance can help reimburse an individual for eligible meals, hotel stays, and lost prepaid expenses if a trip delay is experienced.

Know how to conduct a vehicle title search

Know how to conduct a vehicle title search
Buying a used car is an economically viable alternative to buying a brand-new vehicle, but it comes with its own risks. One of these risks is not knowing the car’s actual history, such as whether it has been in accidents or how much routine maintenance it has gone through. In such situations, conducting a title search on a vehicle can be beneficial to learn about the actual recorded history of the car. Find the VIN The VIN or Vehicle Identification Number is a 17-digit combination of numbers and letters assigned to each vehicle. This number can be found in the vehicle’s insurance information documents, such as the insurance card or insurance policy. Since every state mandates that a car has insurance coverage, finding the VIN through the insurance documents is fairly easy. But if the insurance documents are not available, the VIN can also be found on the car’s registration card or sticker. These are usually found on the front windshield on the driver’s side. Besides this, the VIN can also be found on the driver’s side below the windshield, the driver’s side door or door jamb, the front of the engine block, or the front end of the frame.

4 popular debit cards to consider using

4 popular debit cards to consider using
With cashless economies becoming the norm, debit card transactions have increased exponentially, and almost all major retailers across the country accept debit cards as a mode of payment. Their ease of use with other benefits and cashback options add to their appeal. Debit cards can also be used to withdraw cash instantly, which is especially useful when cash payment is the only option. Having the right debit cards is the key to enjoying maximum benefits. Empower Debit Card The Empower app, powered by AI and cutting-edge technology, has made finance management a breeze. It helps individuals with every aspect of financial planning, from investment and retirement to health savings. The company offers a cashback debit card, which provides 1% cashback on the first $1,000 spent using the debit card every month. Also, those who register for the card can additionally open a savings account. With the Empower Referral Rewards Program, one can receive a credit of $5 upon referring a friend to Empower. U.S. Bank Visa® Debit Card The U.S. Bank Visa® Debit Card has emerged as a popular, convenient option for users as it is accepted by millions of retailers in the country and has flexible autopay and recurring payment options.

Key features of no-fee prepaid debit cards

Key features of no-fee prepaid debit cards
A no-fee prepaid debit card is a type of debit card that provides more advantages than the typical prepaid debit card. The key benefit of this card is that users can load and use their money without paying any fees. Additionally, these cards also help limit one’s spending, thus preventing any potential financial crisis. However, one downside to this card is that some stores and service centers may not accept it. Features of no-fee prepaid debit cards Prepaid debit cards provide users with exclusive access to credit. People owning these cards can repay this used credit within a stipulated amount of time. The workings of a prepaid debit card differ slightly from that of a standard debit card. A normal debit card is used to withdraw money from one’s savings account. On the other hand, prepaid debit cards allow users to load money into their cards through several monetary avenues. Unlike a regular debit card, a prepaid card is not linked with its user’s savings bank account. In that sense, this card functions a lot similar to credit cards issued by banks. Additionally, prepaid debit cards come with several added fees, such as an activation fee, a card loading fee, a monthly fee, a fee for withdrawal from out-of-network ATMs, and a general withdrawal fee.

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5 Early Bird Black Friday Deals One Can Get Right Now

Entrepreneurs who want to turn their ideas into full-blown, successful ventures often look for grants to make that happen. As rewarding as applying for a grant can be, many applicants face pitfalls that can diminish their chances of securing funding. Additionally , with many individuals applying for grants , the process has become highly competitive. This also means that aspiring entrepreneurs cannot afford to make mistakes during the application process that could jeopardize their chances of success. Poor research When applying for a grant, one needs to do thorough research on potential lenders, including their priorities and requirements. Applying for grants that are not aligned with the organizational goals, needs, and values should be avoided. As an aspiring entrepreneur, it’s important to steer clear of funding partners with unrealistic or incompatible expectations. Doing adequate research will help increase one’s chances of securing funding. Failing to include supporting documents When one applies for a grant it is important to include supporting evidence to back any business idea. If one is unable to provide the documentation necessary to confirm and validate the proposal, grant reviewers may not consider the application. Not introducing oneself and the venture It is a common mistake to assume that the funder has read about the venture before speaking to the potential entrepreneur. It is essential to introduce oneself and state the organization’s objectives so that the lender is clear about this information. The document should also cover minute details about the organization, how the program promotes the funder’s missions, and the requirements that will be served in the process. Too much-written content An introduction is important, but it is equally vital to stick to the point. Most foundations conduct the proposal process online, which gives one a limitation on how much they can include in the written document.

Expected Black Friday deals on GMC Sierra models

The GMC Sierra is a popular pickup truck, with powerful towing capabilities, modern infotainment features, and a refined engine. It’s available at many dealerships across the country and can be bought at any time. However, it’s recommended to shop for this truck during Black Friday. While this year’s sale hasn’t begun yet, one can get a hint about what deals to expect on different Sierra models based on last year’s offers and current price trends. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation RWD The rear-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation has a few useful features. Some of these include automatic climate control, a backup camera for parking assistance, Bluetooth connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, keyless entry, lane departure warning, fog lights, a customized tow package, and side-impact airbags. Right now, some dealerships in the country are offering cash discounts of $3,500 to $3,700, purchase allowances of $1,500 to $1,800, and bonus cash discounts of $1,700 to $1,800 on the Sierra 1500. During Black Friday, one can expect similar deals on the vehicle. GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD Like the RWD variant, the all-wheel-drive Sierra 1500 Elevation comes loaded with eye-catching features. It also has a powerful, efficient 2.7-liter engine that produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck has a trailer capacity of 8,900 lbs. Currently, some dealerships are offering this model with attractive leasing options. One of the deals includes a 24-month lease for $620 per month. One has only to pay $3,223 at signing, and there’s no security deposit. This deal includes 12,000 miles of travel coverage per year. Anyone looking to get the Sierra 1500 Elevation 4WD can expect similar lease offers for Black Friday. Some dealerships may even offer lower down payments, more attractive installment payments, and steep discounts on this pickup truck.

Types of car rental deals to expect for Black Friday

With the festive season coming up, now’s the time to plan a quick getaway and take advantage of the upcoming holiday sales on bookings, including car rentals. By booking early, travelers can secure great deals and save more. In past years, customers enjoyed huge bargains during the sale period, and similar (or better) car rental deals and offers are expected this shopping season, making advance car rental bookings a smart move. Percentage discounts For many customers, percentage discounts are highly anticipated deals during the holiday shopping season. These car rental discounts typically range anywhere between 15% and 50% off the standard rental rates. However, the exact discount rates generally depend on factors such as the rental company, the time of booking, and the type of vehicle selected. In previous years, rental companies like Hertz and Sixt rolled out offers that had nearly 25% off on select vehicles. Meanwhile, companies like Fox, Dollar, and Avis typically provide discounts of around 20% to 25% during Black Friday events. To enhance the holiday experience for customers, many car rental providers also offer flexible booking options and free cancellation along with their discounted rates. Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons Flat-rate or dollar-off coupons can provide substantial savings on car rentals during the holiday season. Customers receive a fixed amount off their total bill, but these deals typically come with specific conditions. For instance, there may be a minimum spending requirement or a fixed rental duration needed to qualify. In previous years, brands offered discounts ranging from $10 to $25 off on reservations that exceeded a particular total amount. These offers are often available at airport locations by rental companies . Additionally, there may be minimum stay requirements associated with these flat-rate discounts. Customers can easily lower their travel costs during the Black Friday promotions by meeting these requirements.

Volvo XC90 – Features to note before the Black Friday sale

The Volvo XC90 is a midsize hybrid SUV that combines everyday practicality with a touch of refinement. This model has a premium feel, thanks to its updated exterior styling and a thoughtfully upgraded cabin. Additionally, the car comes equipped with all-wheel drive across all variants, and its powertrain lineup includes turbocharged engines and a plug-in hybrid option. Those interested in the Volvo XC90 should consider its features to make an informed decision during the Black Friday sale. Pricing The starting price for the 2025 XC90 is set at over $58,000. Going up the trim level means buyers can expect to spend up to $83,000. The lineup has different starting prices for each trim level, with the T8 Ultra Bright Theme, T8 Plus Bright Theme, and T8 Core Bright Theme as the highest-cost models. At the lower end of the lineup’s price spectrum are B5 Core Bright Theme, B5 Plus Bright Theme, and B6 Core Bright Theme. Fuel economy The Volvo XC90 comes with all-wheel drive as standard, regardless of the powertrain. The entry-level models have a 2L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower. The mid-level B6 variants deliver 295 horsepower. The higher T8 models are paired with a plug-in hybrid system, providing an electric range of up to 33 miles and a combined fuel economy of 58 mpg. The base models are known to deliver a combined mileage of 26mpg. According to EPA estimates, the XC90 gets 22mpg in the city and 27mpg on highways. Overall, the combined EPA rating is similar across the lineup, with estimates of 26mpg combined. Performance Drivers can enjoy the Volvo XC90’s precise steering response. The steering wheel provides a featherlight feel, making it easier to maneuver twists and turns. Some models also offer an air suspension option, and the eight-speed automatic transmission, combined with the car’s smooth suspension, ensures a smooth driving experience on different road types.

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8 factors to consider before buying oxygen concentrators

8 factors to consider before buying oxygen concentrators

Oxygen concentrators are healthcare devices that assist those with respiratory insufficiency (hypoxemia). They are designed to concentrate oxygen in the air by removing nitrogen, helping those who require oxygen therapy to improve and stabilize blood oxygen saturation levels. While these devices are designed to help maintain oxygen levels, not all models work in the same way. So, it is important to consider all options and assess specific needs to choose the right device. Oxygen concentration While oxygen is compressed and filtered in the concentrator, the amount then delivered contains a specific percentage of pure oxygen. This value is known as the oxygen concentration. Before buying the device, one must check if the oxygen flow rate is about 2 L/min. This rate is usually sufficient for home oxygen concentrators. Some may require a higher flow rate, in which case they can choose devices with up to 10 L/min. Noise levels An oxygen concentrator generally produces some noise, which can be bothersome for many. So, when looking for a device, choose a model with noise levels between 31 dB and 60 dB. This range is equivalent to the sound of a quiet conversation or a voice in a calm environment. Additionally, some manufacturers offer models with quieter operation. Portability Having a portable oxygen concentrator can be beneficial for those who travel extensively. When choosing one, it’s important to take into account its size and weight. Some units are heavier and larger, offering higher flow rates. Those who do not require high oxygen flow rates must look for options between 5 and 10 pounds that come with lower flow rates. These lighter units are easy to carry and use on the move. FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) approval In addition to the portability of an oxygen concentrator, one should also look for an FAA-approved device.
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5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season

5 Cyber Monday Mistakes To Avoid This Holiday Season Cyber Monday is when many sales are happening all over the country, and most purchases occur in the electronic market. Every store that sells anything with an electronic gadget or even its accessory is up a sale. Such a time also becomes a time when many buyers end up at a loss for various other reasons. It is a great time of the year for consumers to make the best of the deals offered. Here are tips to help you make the best of the Cyber Monday sales this year: Getting Scammed Cyber Monday is undoubtedly a great time to shop; unfortunately, it is also when many cyber criminals put out their bait. So in these times, paying attention to the websites you visit before placing an order is essential. Make sure that when you click any URL links, any links you click on are from reputable sites, and don’t ask for personal information via email or phone call. If something seems way too good to be true, it probably is! It can be easy to get fooled by images that look like they came from Google or Amazon. Sending funds through the internet can be risky if you don’t know what kind of company or individual you are sending to. Checking out the company’s or individual’s profile on social media and other related websites can prove to be a money saver. Sometimes, this can mean accepting an offer without doing your research, which could lead to fraud. Shopping for the sake of Cyber Monday Cyber Monday is a also a perfect time to get deals on products you know you will love. But before you make any purchases, consider whether or not the item is something that will benefit your life and make it easier for you to accomplish what matters most.
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