How Much Does a Water Meter Cost?
A water meter, whether your government is requiring you to upgrade or you need one for the first time, may come at an expense.
The primary purpose, as you may or may not know, is designed to measure the flow of the water flowing into your home, allowing the utility company to see how much water your household uses monthly.
How much does a water meter installation cost?
The cost of installing a water meter will depend on your geographical location, the type of install, the size of the meter and who’s performing the install. The costs, either billed to the government or consumer, can range anywhere from as little as $400 to replace an existing water meter to as much as $3,500+ if it needed to be connected to a service line and the pavement needed to be replaced. These are the prices for both the meter and professional labor.
If you’re replacing the water meter on your own and the utility company allows you to do it, then the costs, from what we researched will be in the $150 to $250 price range for the meter only or closer to $500 if it’s a digital meter. This won’t include the professional labor rates and will be the cost for just the water meter. If your utility company recommends a particular model, they may provide it at no charge.
Since all jobs are so unique, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to receive multiple free quotes from licensed contractors in your area.
| Meter Size | Average Price |
|---|---|
| 5/8 inch | - $400 if replacing existing meter on an existing line. - $2,500 if replacing meter and a new connection needs to be made. |
| 3/4 inch | - $400 if replacing existing meter on an existing line. - $2,500 if replacing meter and a new connection needs to be made. |
| 1 inch | - $450 if replacing existing meter on an existing line. - $2,700 if replacing meter and a new connection needs to be made. |
| 1-1/2 inch | - $650 if replacing existing meter on an existing line. - $3,000 if replacing meter and a new connection needs to be made. |
| 2 inch | - $800 if replacing existing meter on an existing line. - $3,500 if replacing meter and a new connection needs to be made. |
Tucson, Arizona, for example, performed a study, showing us a new water meter could cost when installed. A developer installed water meter box on an existing line, for instance, could cost $393 for a 5/8-inch meter to as much as $775 for a two-inch meter. A new meter installation that needed to be connected to a service line could cost $2,333 for a 5/8-inch meter to as much as $3,444 for a two-inch meter.
Angel Fire, a village in New Mexico, lists its official prices for installing a new water meter on its official website. The prices range from as little as $1,551 for a 5/8-inch sealed register to as much as $12,305 for a compound meter. The charges include the labor time, equipment time, the cost of the meter and related costs.
According to this Bloomberg BNA article, the average cost to install a smart meter on every house in Washington D.C. is $180, according to DC Water, which distributes drinking water and collects and treats wastewater for more than 672,000 residents in the D.C. area.
GovTech.com noted that, in California, a smart meter would cost $312 per household.
What are the extra costs?
In most cases, you will need a permit before you can tap into the city’s water line and/or to dig a supply line in order to connect to the water main. While some contractors may tie these permit fees into their estimates, some won’t.
Tips to know
Always check with the utility company first before replacing or installing a water meter, because most of the time, the meter needs to be located near a water line entry point and an in “official” location in most cases. Most municipalities won’t allow you to install your own meter and will either require you hire an approved contractor or use the utility company. Before you call, however, they will ask your plumbing is ready to go when they show up on site.
A water meter can either be purchased online, if your utility company allows you to do it, or via the utility company.
How Much Does Lamb Meat Cost?
From a roast to a stew, lamb has something to offer for everyone at the kitchen table.
How much does lamb meat cost?
The cost of lamb meat will greatly depend on the cut, the market conditions, the quality and the butcher/retailer you purchase from. Refer to our table below to see what the average cut may cost:
| Type of Lamb | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Broth Bones | $2 to $3 per pound |
| Ground Lamb | $8 to $11 per pound |
| Lamb Stew Meat | $7 to $11 per pound |
| Leg Steaks | $11 to $14 per pound |
| Liver, Heart or Kidney | $3 to $5 per pound |
| Loin Chops | $8 to $12 per pound |
| Rack of Lamb or Deboned Roast | $12 to $17 per pound |
| Rib Chops | $7 to $9 per pound |
| Sausage Links | $7 to $10 per pound |
| Shanks | $7 to $9 per pound |
| Shoulder Steaks | $5 to $9 per pound |
| Whole Bone-in Leg Roast | $11 to $14 per pound |
| Whole Bone-in Shoulder Roast | $9 to $13 per pound |
As for live lamb, the costs will depend on the weight, the butcher you choose and geographical location. On average, the entire lamb, when cut, wrapped and vacuum packed, the costs on the killed weight can range from $6 to $10 per pound, with the costs decreasing as the weight of the live lamb increases.
At the Prolific Acres Sheep Farm, for example, they list their prices on their official website, with a 25-pound carcass retailing for $240, whereas a 60-pound carcass retailing for $400.
The price for lamb meat, according to the hanging weight, can range from $4.50 to $6 per pound, again, depending on the factors mentioned prior. The hanging weight, also referred to as the carcass weight, will be the weight after the inedible parts are removed such as the feed, head and some bones. The processing fee, which is often an additional cost at most butchers, can be an additional $1 per pound.
At the Blue Rooster Farm in East Waterford, Pennslyvania, for example, a whole lamb can cost $5.75 per pound, plus processing, which can be another $70 to $85 per lamb. For simplicity purposes, the farm said you should be prepared to pay about $367 for a lamb that’s hanging weight is 50 pounds.
The best sellers on Amazon.com, for example, can range from $20 per pound for a USDA Prime lamb shoulder roast to $9 per pound for ground lamb meat.
Lamb at Costco retails for $70 for a 4.5-pound boneless leg pack.
Lamb meat overview
Lamb meat, either fresh or frozen, can typically be purchased at your local grocery store, a farmers market, butcher or even a restaurant if you already want it prepped. As seen in the table above, a wide variety of cuts are available, with the most popular being the legs, rack, chops, shoulder, top round and shank. Dr. Axe highly recommends buying organic and grass fed to get the highest quality lamb meat possible. Grass-fed lamb, when compared to other varieties, is significantly higher in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
| Type of Cut | Description |
|---|---|
| Chops | Coming from the rack and the long rib bones, the chops offer a generous ratios of meat-to-bone. |
| Leg of lamb | From the full leg to the shank (lower end), the legs will take the longest to cook but can feed the most. One whole leg, which weighs an average of five pounds, can feed up to eight people. |
| Rack | The rib rack, with seven to eight in tact, is often crusted with herbs and is roasted to perfection. |
| Shank | A lamb shank, on average, can feed one person. This cut are often braised and have a velvety-like texture if prepared properly. |
| Shoulder | Also referred to as a square-cut road, the shoulder is great for stews or slow roasting. |
| Top Round | This tender cut comes from the larger part of the lg. It's often used as a thin steak, kebobs or as a roast. |
Three ounces of lamb contains 160 calories, 23.5 grams of protein, 6.6 grams of fat, 2.7 micrograms of vitamin B12, 4.4 milligrams of zinc and 4.9 milligrams of niacin. In moderation, lamb is a healthy source of protein, iron, zinc, selenium and vitamin B12. While lamb meat is considered to be a red meat and falls within the category, it can be a healthy protein source as long as consumed in moderation.
Tips to know:
A lamb that weighs 50 pounds can yield close to 30 pounds of take-home meat, meaning a whole lamb could cost close to $13 per pound, on average, when all of the meat is processed and packaged for home use.
For every 15 to 20 pounds of lamb meat, be prepared to have one cubic foot of freezer space.
How Much Does Dendracin Lotion Cost?
Dendracin lotion (Dendracin Neurodendraxcin®) offers temporary relief from minor aches and pains, often caused by strains and backaches.
Dendracin lotion is a topical analgesic, meaning it only works by temporarily relieving minor pain.
How much does Dendracin lotion cost?
The cost of Dendracin, much like other prescriptions, will greatly depend on your health insurance provider and where you purchase it. On average, without any insurance coverage, a 120ml bottle will cost about $325 to $355. A Walgreens we had talked to in Texas quoted $3250= without insurance, while a Kroger pharmacy said the lotion would cost $355 without insurance.
The generic alternative, such as Bio-Therm, can be much cheaper, often retailing for as little as $75 to $125 without insurance.
This WebMD.com pharmacy comparison tool, for example, shows the prices for Bio-Therm ranging from as little as $80 at a local Walgreens to as much as $111 at a local independent pharmacy. These prices, however, were only available to those who took advantage of the WebMDRx Savings Card.
As long as medically necessary, a prescription should be covered by your insurance, and you will only be responsible for your co-pays and deductibles.
Dendracin lotion overview
Dendracin ingredients, according to the NIH, includes water, benzocaine, glyceryl stearate, PEG 100 stearate, stearic acid, propylene glycol, cetyl alcohol, dimethyl sulfoxide, poloxamer 407, capsaicin, aloe barbadensis gel, borage oil, ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate, zingiber officinale root extract, boswelia serrata extract, soya lecithin, methylparaben, propylparaben, DMDM hydantoin, sodium stearoyl glutamate, triethanolamine.
Tips to know
Dendracin lotion works similar to other prescribed lotions. Shaking the bottle before each use, you will need to apply a thin layer over the affected area. Immediately after, you will need to wash your hands unless the affected area is on your hand. Avoid using the lotion on any open wound or more than four times per day. Also, avoid bandaging or wrapping the affected area until the lotion has fully absorbed.
Dendracin lotion has no common side effects; however, this doesn’t mean they don’t exist. If you experience a severe allergic reaction, any swelling or a sign of an infection, seek medical treatment immediately.
Some medical conditions, as per Drugs.com, may react with the lotion. Be sure to talk with your doctor if you are pregnant, taking any prescriptions, have an allergy and/or have had an allergic reaction to sulfonamides, para-aminobenzoic acid or other topical anesthetics.
Before using a full dose, doctors recommend applying a small amount to your skin to check for sensitivity.
How can I save money?
Dendracin is a brand name, and as with any prescriptions, the name brand will always be the most expensive option. If your doctor prescribes Dendracin, see if you can get a generic prescription alternative. The generic name is as follows: methyl salicylate/benzocaine/menthol.
Even if you don’t have health insurance, look for a prescription savings card online to save. These cards, which are almost always free, can be printed from your computer and simply shown at your local pharmacy.
It doesn’t hurt to call a few pharmacies in your area to see what they charge. Most will be more than happy to quote you over the phone.
How Much Does a Conch Piercing Cost?
The conch, referred to as the outer shell of the ear, is pierced no differently than other piercings.
How much does a conch piercing cost?
On average, a conch piercing will cost around $30 to $90 for a basic piercing and jewelry add-on. The costs will depend on the professional, where you live and if you upgrade the jewelry.
Pierced Hearts, a piercing studio located in Seattle, Washington, for example, states that they charge $45 for a conch piercing with a ring or $60 with a straight barbell on their official pricing sheet.
Conch piercing overview
There are two types of conch piercings: an inner or outer. The inner conch, as the name suggests, is done at the center of the ear cartilage, just below the “bowl” part of your ear, whereas the outer piercing is done on the flat surface on the outside of the ear, the exact opposite spot of the inner conch piercing.
During the piercing process, the piercer will first clean the whole area with a disinfectant to help avoid an infection. Next, the area being pierced will be marked with a pen to ensure it’s the proper spot you want to have pierced. Once confirmed, a needle or gun will then be used to puncture the targeted area, followed by inserting the jewelry of your choice. A dermal option is also available, often for the outer ear, if you want something larger than a 14 gauge. Even if you don’t upgrade the jewelry, a standard, low-end piece will be inserted to prevent the hole from naturally closing. Bleeding will be normal after the piercing, but an experienced piercer will take care of this.
What are the extra costs?
As mentioned prior, a piercer will always include a standard piercing, but if you do decide to upgrade, this could be an additional $15 to $45+, depending on the type of jewelry you choose. Popular options people often consider upgrading to include a captive bead ring, circular barbells or a labret stud.
Aftercare products such as a disinfectant spray can cost $10 to $15.
Tips to know
The pain, as with any piercing, will greatly depend on how well you handle pain. Most people say an inner conch piercing is quite painful, while others state it can be bearable but sore a few days after.
As with any piercing, an infection can happen if you don’t carefully follow the aftercare directions. This includes cleaning the area twice a day and avoid playing with it for the next few weeks. An infection, if it were to happen, could spread through the cartilage and damage it considerably, often causing it to collapse, which, can’t be fixed naturally.
The healing process can take three to eight months as long as proper aftercare directions are followed.
How can I save money?
Always compare at least three to five studios before making an educated decision. Don’t focus solely on the price, however. Pay close attention to the reviews online, the cleanliness of the studio and look at pictures of past work.
How Much Does an Industrial Piercing Cost?
An industrial piercing, also referred to as a scaffold piercing, involves two piercings, which are connected via a barbell and can be located anywhere on the body; however, it typically refers to the two piercings along the cartilage of the upper ear rim. The most common piercing will often compromise of a helix and anti-helix piercing.
Due to the unusual and unique look, it’s a perfect choice for those who want to show off something a bit different and has gained a lot of popularity since the early 1990s.
How much does an industrial piercing cost?
As with any piercing, the costs will depend on the professional you choose, where you live and if you want to upgrade the jewelry. Most of the time, an industrial piercing can cost $45 to $85 for the piercing and a simple barbell. Generally speaking, an industrial piercing will be less in a rural area when compared to a popular metropolitan area.
We researched a few studios located throughout the United States and included the quotes we received in our table below:
| Location | Price Quoted |
|---|---|
| Atlanta, GA | $80 for piercing and jewelry upgrade |
| Austin, TX | $29 for piercing + $35 jewelry upgrade |
| Berkeley, CA | $75 for the piercing, upgraded jewelry and aftercare spray |
| Brooklyn, NY | $35 for piercing and another $35 for barbell upgrade |
| Los Angeles, CA | $50 after using Yelp discount (basic jewelry) |
| San Diego, CA | $25 + $45 jewelry upgrade |
| San Francisco, CA | $75 (included tip and jewelry) |
Pierced Hearts, a body piercing professional studio located in Seattle, Washington, posted their official prices on their website. An industrial piercing, according to the pricing list, would cost $65 with a straight barbell.
Industrial piercing overview
The average industrial piercing can be located anywhere outside the outer cartilage of the ear, but depending on the anatomy of your ear, it may not be feasible. In some cases, if there isn’t enough free cartilage to perform the procedure, the piercing could shift over time, potentially breaking the skin. Other locations include the bridge of the nose, the outer part of the lips, the naval or even the tongue.
Before the piercing begins, the area will be cleaned and then the proposed location will be marked, ensuring the two points being pierced will align correctly. It’s important the markings are symmetrically aligned to ensure it doesn’t affect your piercing when complete. Using a hollow needle, the first hole will be created, followed by inserting a piece of jewelry. Next, a second hole will be created, followed by inserting the second piece of jewelry to complete the piercing.
After the procedure, the healing process can take up to six months to fully heal, but this is greatly dependent on the individual. As long as you maintain proper hygiene and follow the aftercare instructions, the piercing should heal effectively within 60 days. This includes avoiding swimming as much possible, using an antibacterial soap when cleaning the pierced area and ensuring you don’t add any unnecessary weight to the jewelry. It’s also suitable to keep it clear of any lotions, makeup, perfumes, body sprays and/or moisturizers.
What are the extra costs?
An industrial piercing can cater a variety of piercings, including long plastic surface barbells, zigzag barbells and/or stainless steel barbells. However, if you don’t prefer the joined industrial piercing look, then you can wear individual pieces such as a labret stud or captive bead ring until the piercing heals. Typically, 1.2mm – 1.6mm gauge jewelry is worn until the piercing has fully healed, and while the piercer will include a basic piece of jewelry, most upgrade. The costs, depending on the type you choose, can range from as little as $5 to more than $25.
The aftercare products, which can include a piercing spray, can cost $10 to $15. This spray should be used up to six times per day to keep the area cleaned.
Tips, which are highly recommended, should be budgeted for as well.
Tips to know
This piercing isn’t recommended for those who are heavily into sports, according to Blue Banana. Always be sure to discuss the effects with your piercer before the piercing to know how you can protect yourself in high-impact situations.
As for pain, those who have had the piercing done in the past say it can be “moderate” due to the location on the cartilage. However, as with any pain, everyone experiences pain differently, so your pain tolerance will vary. For the next few months, again, depending on your healing process, your ear cartilage can be sore and tender to the touch. It can also be uncomfortable if you were to sleep on the affected side. To minimize the pain, PainfulPleasures.com recommends spraying an aftercare spray to help cool and soothe the infected skin. You can also take an ibuprofen to help with the swelling and discomfort as well.
How can I save money?
Depending on where you live, it’s always best to get as many quotes as you can. While you don’t want to focus on the price alone, also pay close attention to the cleanliness of the studio, the reviews online and past client work.
How Much Does a Zuchon Puppy Cost?
The Zuchon puppy, also known as the Shichon by many, is a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise. It is also referred to as the Bichon Shihtzu and is known as the original Teddy Bear dog.
Relatively a new breed, the Zuchon originated in the United States and is slowly gaining popularity across North America.
How much does a Zuchon cost?
The cost of a Zuchon puppy will depend on the quality, colors, age, gender, breeder and where the breeder lives. On average, a high-quality puppy, with all of the appropriate paperwork, will cost $650 to $2,000, but most of the prices, from what we researched, were in the $650 to $950 range.
On PuppyFind.com, for example, there were close to 300 active listings at the time of this writing, with prices ranging from as little as $450 to more than $2,000.
PuppyFinder.com, another website similar to PuppyFind.com, had close to 50+ listings, with prices quite similar to PuppyFind, but for the most part, the average price was close to $699.
What is going to be included in the adoption fee?
Reputable breeders should include up-to-date vaccinations, a health guarantee, vet checkup certification, registration paperwork and a shipping crate if being shipped. Some breeders or shelters may also microchip, spay/neuter and/or include a small starter kit filled with samples and coupons.
Tips to know:
The average weight is eight to 12 pounds and measures nine to 12 inches. The characteristics can greatly depend upon their genetics.
Its coat is usually thick, fluffy, soft and will shed very little, but a regular brushing is still highly recommended. The coat can come in a variety of lengths, depending on its ancestry, but most will either be curly or silky. Common colors include gray, cream, tan or a combination of the three.
The average lifespan of a Zuchon in captivity and when healthy is 12 to 14 years.
A Zuchon is known to be happy, friendly, very easy going and smart due to their Bichon origin. The only way to truly know their temperament, however, is by looking at all of the breeds in the cross and research the characteristics of each.
When compared to other dog breeds, the Zuchon requires very little exercise are quite happy with a good play session, either outside or indoors. Due to this low activity level, the dog can work well for those who live in a smaller space such as an apartment or condo. It’s best suited for singles, families, senior citizens and/or apartment dwellers.
The dog can do great with younger children, but due to its smaller size, it must be handled with great care.
This designer breed is recognized by ACHC (American Canine Hybrid Club). Due to being a crossbreed, it isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Like most hybrids, if a Zuchon isn’t properly bred, congenital defects may display, especially if the Zuchon is a first generation dog. As the generations progress, the chances of health issues greatly increase, including deafness, epilepsy, liver disease and hip dysplasia.
Due to the very little shedding, the dog can work great for those who suffer from allergies.
How can I save money?
The Zuchon, being a mix of two breeds, can be called a “designer” dog, but in reality, it’s a “mutt,” just like those you will see at your local shelters. Because of this, highly consider checking out a local rescue or shelter to see if you can find a puppy or younger dog that closely resembles the Zuchon. If you’re able to find one or even patiently wait on a waiting list, this is a great way to help an organization and dog that’s in need of a forever home.
How Much Does Dry Cleaning a Leather Jacket Cost?
Due to the nature of the leather fabric, cleaning needs to be done by a professional to ensure that the quality of the jacket stays the same while the jacket is being cleaned and pressed.
Professional leather jacket cleaning takes years of experience, skills and patience, and the cleaning techniques will greatly vary depending on the type of leather, the extent of the stains and the construction of the design.
A skilled dry cleaner who’s able to clean your leather jacket should be able to clean the jack, restore the original color, remove any stains and recondition any signs of cracked leather.
How much does dry cleaning cost for a leather jacket?
Depending on the dry cleaner and the size of the jacket, the costs of dry cleaning a leather jacket will typically be between $35 and $85. The costs, however, can be much higher if you needed any alterations, repairs and/or colors restored.
NY Organic Dry Cleaners in Rego Park, New York, offers leather jacket dry cleaning services for $40, according to their official pricing sheet.
According to CleanersToYourDoor.com, the average cost to clean a regular jacket smaller than 30 inches will cost $40 to $50, whereas a full coat, down to your knees, can cost up to $80.
Dry cleaning a leather jacket
When you take your leather jacket to the dry cleaners, the first thing that they will do it tag it so that it does not get confused with any of the other items in the service. Your leather jacket will be gently cleaned, dried and then the natural oils, which are depleted from the skin during a natural cleaning process, will be replenished. Color touchups and/or restoration, if necessary, may be applied to revitalize the jacket.
The entire process can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on how busy the dry cleaner is.
What are the extra costs?
Any tears, holes or rips can be repaired for an additional $25 to $50, on average.
If the leather jacket needs to be re-colored, this can often be an additional $40 to $80 on top of the estimates mentioned above.
Many delivery companies can pick up your garments for a slight fee, depending on the distance they have to travel to your residence. These fees are often $20 to $30.
Alterations, if necessary, can be done as well. This may include adding a zipper, shortening the sleeves or adding a new lining. All of these alterations can, depending on the type of job performed, cost $40 to $80.
Tips to know:
It is recommended that the leather jacket is dry cleaned at least once a year in order to retain its quality and ensure its longevity.
Do not leave leather jackets inside a plastic bag. As soon as it arrives from a dry cleaner, remove it right away from the plastic to allow the leather to breathe and to avoid trapping moisture in the fabric.
How can I save money?
Shop around, especially if you live in a busy area. While you don’t want to focus on the price, play close attention to their cleaning methods and reviews online as well.
If you take multiple items to the dry cleaners, you will most likely be charged less per item.
Dry cleaning, according to Jennifer Halloran at EditbyDesign.com, can be machine washed, but as with anything, do it at your own risk.
How Much Do Oysters Cost?
Oysters are found in oceans around the world, usually in shallow waters or reefs.
The shells, usually pear or oval in shape, can differ depending on what the oyster adheres to. The color of the shell on the outside is usually a shade of gray, while the inside is known to be pearly white.
How much do oysters cost?
The costs of oysters will depend on the size of the oyster, how you’re purchasing them, where you live, market conditions and who you’re purchasing them from.
Shucked oyster meats, often found in one-pound containers, can cost $8 to $12 per pound.
Live oysters, depending on the size, can cost anywhere from $7 to $13 per dozen or $0.75 to $2 each. If the oysters are already prepared on the half shell, then the costs could be double the price.
100 count bushels can cost $55 to $65, and again, if prepped, the costs can be twice this amount.
On Amazon.com, for instance, the highest rated seafood oysters retail for $60 to $100 for a 50-count box, depending on the season.
At Silver Point Oysters, they list the average prices for shucked oyster meat and live Pacific oysters. The shucked oyster meat, depending on the container size, ranges from $8.50 for a pint to as much as $43 for a half gallon. As for the live Pacific oysters, the prices range from $7.50 to $9.15 per dozen.
Oysters overview
In the oyster world, there are only five species: the Atlantic, Pacific, Kumamoto, Olympias and Belons.
A three-ounce serving of raw Eastern oysters has 45 calories and a week’s worth of your daily zinc requirement, according to SeriousEats.com.
Fresh oysters are sold via three ways: either shell stock, shucked or HPP. Shell stock oysters are complete oysters suited for half-shell consumption and will often sit alive inside a case. These oysters are often sold on a “per oyster” basis. In the United States, you can find two varieties: the Eastern oyster or Pacific oyster. Shucked oysters are also considered fresh and a very convenient choice since you don’t have to fuss with opening them upon purchasing. The meat has already been removed, a process referred to as shucking, and the meat will then be rinsed with chilled water, often sold by the pint or in gallon sized jars.
What are the extra costs?
If you plan on buying oysters in the shell, a good oyster knife is highly recommended to making preparing much easier. A good knife can cost $10.
Online purchases often incur additional shipping charges due to the sensitivity of the shipment. Depending on the amount purchased, this can range from $10 to $30 or sometimes waived if you spend enough.
Tips to know
Throw away any oysters that have broken shells since foreign substances can find its way in. It’s not worth the risk.
It is always advised to buy live oysters and eat them within 24 hours.
To check for dead oysters, look for the ones with the shell slightly open and feel lighter compared to the live ones. If there is an oyster with an open shell, tap it lightly and it should close. If it does not, it is suggested that you throw the oyster away.
Do not try to store them in the freezer as they can spoil and kill them quickly. Always refrigerate them for no more than two days, but if possible, try to receive them a day before you plan on shucking them. When refrigerating, however, place them in an open container and cover them a wet paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
If purchasing shucked oysters, the liquid substance inside the container makes for a great cooking stock. Known as the nectar, this liquid constitutes of a milky looking oyster blood.
While it’s perfectly fine to eat oysters any time of the year, many advocates state you shouldn’t eat during any month with the letter “r” in it. Yes, it’s safe to eat during these months; however, the temperatures in some waters can be too high, often affecting the taste. Oyster season is best during the colder months, from September to April.
An oyster taste has a hint of the ocean, minus the salt, mixed with a white part of an overcooked egg. Some may call it gooey, while others may say it’s mushy, but regardless, it’s almost like a jelly-like resistance.
How can I save money?
If you live near the coastal waters where oysters are aplenty, many recommend checking out international markets for the best value.
Don’t be afraid of cheap oyster offers at some restaurants or stores throughout the year as this doesn’t necessarily affect the quality. During some months, oysters are significantly cheaper due to the harvesting time. For example, on the east coast during the winter months, you may find the best deals.
In the oyster world, the more you purchase at once, the more you can often save.
How Much Does a Dragon Tattoo Cost?
The choice of a dragon tattoo is often linked to its mythical powers and is a symbol of supernatural powers among the Chinese and Japanese; however, a dragon tattoo has various meanings, depending on the region. The dragon is also common in modern fantasy literature and western culture.
One of the things that set a dragon tattoo apart from other tattoo designs is the number of colors often seen in a design.
While most tattoos have one or two colors, dragon tattoos will usually be very colorful with multiple color combinations.
How much does a dragon tattoo cost?
On average, the cost of a dragon tattoo will depend on the size of the tattoo, the amount of detail that goes into it, the body part, tattoo artist and geographical location. Very detailed dragon tattoos, such as a half or full sleeve, can cost as much as $1,400, while smaller dragon tattoos with less detail can be shaded for about $200 to $800.
Moviefone.com did some research to see what tattoo artists would charge for the tattoo Lisbeth Salander had in the movie The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Most professional tattoo artists stated that they would probably charge anywhere from as little as $500 to as much as $1,200.
On this WeddingBee.com forum thread, a member showcased her dragon tattoo she had done. According to her, it cost $600 and took six hours to complete.
Dragon tattoo overview
There are many variations of the dragon tattoo. Some can be very detailed, while some can be as simple as an outline. Some people prefer a fire-spitting dragon, vicious looking and clawed monster, while some will consider a subtle look. Some inked dragons may be done in monochrome colors while some can be done with an array of bright colors, making them stand out. Like any other design, the design and colors are endless.
While most men prefer a larger, fierce looking dragon inked on their chests, back and arms, ladies often opt for smaller versions on their hands, legs and lower back.
The average session should take around two to five hours depending on the size of the tattoo. If it is a very large tattoo, the artist may suggest that you do it in two sittings rather than all in one.
What are the extra costs?
An ointment will be needed after the tattoo is complete to keep the area moisturized and prevent an infection. While some professionals will include these aftercare products, some may require you buy it separate from your tattoo quote. A good ointment often costs $10 to $20.
Depending on the location and colors of your dragon tattoo, plan on touch-ups in the future. This would be the case with any tattoo, however.
Tips to know
If you need inspiration, refer to this TattoosMe.com page that showcases 50 dragon tattoo designs.
How can I save money?
Don’t focus on the price when shopping for a tattoo. While it can play a role, the hygiene and the artist’s experience and reviews are much more important. Depending on where you live, try your hardest to receive as many quotes as possible as many artists are more than happy to offer a ballpark for free.
How Much Does Yellowfin Tuna Cost?
Yellowfin tuna, a species of tuna found in tropical and subtropical oceans, is often marketed as ahi and can weigh up to 400 pounds.
This fish is a wonderful source of protein, vitamins, minerals and is full of Omega-3 oil.
The yellowfin gets its name from the second dorsal fin and anal fin that is bright yellow in color.
How much does yellowfin tuna cost per pound?
The cost of yellowfin tuna will depend on the grade, your geographical location and where you live.
If it is caught locally and is deemed non-sushi, you can expect to pay $8 to $15 per pound.
On the other hand, fresh, sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna steak can cost $17 to $30 per pound.
The highest rated sushi grade yellowfin tuna on Amazon.com, for example, retails for close to $30 per pound, excluding shipping.
Yellowfin tuna overview
Yellowfin tuna is either going to be packaged fresh, frozen or even in cans, either in chunks, loins, portions or as steaks. When fresh, most markets will cut it into one to three-pound filets, including the date the fish was caught on the packaging label and the date you should eat the fish by.
There are two kinds of yellowfin grades: sashimi and other. The quality of the “other” grades is sometimes questionable, so be careful how you eat it.
It has a mild flavor that is dense and similar to beef. Unlike tuna from the can, this fish is sold in a loin form, similar to most meats you find in the meat department.
What are the extra costs?
If purchasing online, most reputable retailers will want to ship the fish overnight, and depending on the billing policy, a shipping fee may be charged, often around $10 to $25, or it could be waived if you meet the minimum spending requirement.
Tips to know
When buying yellowfin tuna steaks, look for cuts that are neatly trimmed with little or no fat. The flesh should be firm and dark red. A premium, straight filet should have no bones, tales, or belly.
If purchasing online, make sure the store has a guarantee. If the product doesn’t meat your expectations, then the company should be able to give you a refund with no questions asked, backing up their product.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends limiting your consumption of fish with higher amounts of mercury, such as the yellowfin, to six ounces or less per week. Children and pregnant women should avoid eating yellowfin tuna.
This type of fish tastes great grilled, broiled, pan-seared, smoked or even raw with a nice dipping sauce.
This fish peaks from April to September; however, it is available year-round.
This type of tuna has a dark metallic body, blue body, and a silverish belly with yellow fins.
Store loins in the coldest part of your refrigerator for long-term storage.
The Number 2 quality is adequate for the U.S. market and is ideal for restaurants and retail, while Number 1 quality is exported to Japan and is known for sushi/sashimi.
MarxFoods recommends removing the skin from the loin prior to cooking or serving it raw.
The world record yellowfin tuna was set in 2012, weighing 427 pounds.
Bluefin tuna vs yellowfin tuna
The main difference is the size. A yellowfin tuna is the smallest, followed by the bluefin tuna in this case.
Next, the taste can be a difference as well. Bluefin tuna has been said to have more of a “tuna” flavor, while a yellowfin tuna steak, due to the fat content, can lack the tuna flavor.
Touched upon, the fat content found in the meat can be noticeable when you pay close attention to the filets. Since the yellowfin tuna is native to tropical and sub-tropical waters, the cuts are much leaner than the bluefin tuna. Due to this, the bluefin can tend to command a much higher price tag.
Lastly, the appearance, overall, can be different. As explained by OnTheWater.com, the yellowfin tuna’s pectoral fin reaches beyond the beginning of the second dorsal fin, which is yellow in color. The tail fin, unlike the bluefin, will be yellow and gray in color. The bluefin, on the other hand, has a darker blue tail fin color, and the second dorsal fin is a mix of gray and yellow.
How to cook yellowfin tuna
How can I save money?
If purchasing from a local fish market or retailer, keep your eyes peeled for special sales and/or promotions. If the promotion is too good to pass up, don’t be afraid to stock your freezer as this fish does freeze well.
