How Much Does Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost?

The dryer vent is the opening in the wall of the home that is connected to the dryer to get rid of all of the warm air so that the dryer does not overheat.

Dryer vent cleaning is vital to home safety because it can prevent dryer vent fires.  If a dryer were to malfunction due to the accumulation of lint and dust, it can not only become a fire hazard, but it can also lead to unnecessary repairs.

“Dryer vent hole” (CC BY 2.0) by  Ken_Mayer

How much does dryer vent cleaning cost?

On average, most professional dryer vent cleaning jobs are going to cost anywhere from $60 to as much as $175 for a standard single-family home.  Since this is a fairly straightforward job and most will charge a straightforward price, consider getting an exact quote from licensed contractors in your area by using HomeAdvisor.com.  Simply explain your job and watch the quotes come in.

Sears Carpet and Air Duct Cleaning, for example, charges $99 for a first-floor dryer vent, $139 for a second-floor vent and $169 for a roof-mounted dryer vent.

Factors that affect the price

The location.  A first-floor dryer vent will be much easier to access and easier to clean when compared to the second floor or roof mounted dryer vent.

The number of vents

A lot of dryer vent cleaning service firms charge per vent.  The more vents need to be cleaned, the higher the cost of the overall repair.  However, the more vents there are, the lower the cost will be per vent.  Some dryer vent cleaning companies charge $150 per vent but will decrease the price the more vents need to be cleaned in a single task.

Vent accessibility

Most vents can be accessed with ease, while others require a more laborious process.  Many service providers charge up to $150 for a hard-to-access vent.

Cleaning procedure

A dryer vent cleaning process that involves a profound and deep-level cleaning can cost more than a standard cleaning process.  The more difficult a cleaning job is, the higher its cost will be.

Dryer vent cleaning overview

Dryer vent cleaning involves cleaning clogged vents to improve the airflow and enhance the machine efficiency.  With some providers, the process begins with a preliminary reading of air flow at the dryer vent exit, followed by a cleaning process using their equipment.  The method may include cleaning the entire vent from the dryer to the external part of the home.  Afterward, the dryer will be reassembled and checked to ensure proper operation.

In general, most dryer vents can be cleaned within an hour.  If there is too much lint buildup or the presence of birds or other critters, the job can take a longer time to finish.

What are the extra costs?

Some dryer vents may require more than cleaning, especially those that are broken and need to be repaired. Many service providers also offer other services such as dryer vent repair, which can cost between $100 and $300, depending on parts, labor and trip charges.  Bird removal is also offered for a fee.

While it’s optional, some providers may recommend a dryer safety alarm, a device that alerts you when it’s time for a cleaning.  These alarms often cost $40 to $80.

A screen, in some cases, may be necessary to prevent birds from accessing your vent.   These screens, when installed by a professional, will cost about $5 to $10.

Tips to know:

Dryer vent cleaning extends the life of the dryer, making it last longer and helping homeowners to save on repair bills.

Clothes dryers are among the most costly appliances to operate.  They need to have proper ventilation in order to function efficiently.  Dryers that are poorly ventilated, especially due to clogging, lead to higher energy expenses, which can increase by up to $300 a year.

Poorly vented dryers can result in wet clothes, which can cause mildew and mold damage to the home as well as wear and tear on the dryer.

Some dryer vent cleaning companies have a type of video inspection equipment that can reveal how dirty a dryer vent is.  With this tool, homeowners can be sure that their unit is efficiently and thoroughly cleaned.

To reduce the amount of debris from clogging your vents, consider using a fabric softener from time to time.  Also, allowing your dryer to settle for up to 20 minutes after each cycle can also help eliminate potential clogs as well.

The US Fire Administration recommends the dryer vents should be cleaned at least once per year.

Signs your dryer vent needs to be cleaned

Your clothes are coming out of the dryer much hotter than normal.

It’s taking a lot longer to dry your clothes or they are still damp, even after 40 to 50 minutes.

The laundry room’s temperature rises when the dryer is in use.

The lint filter is building up faster than normal and needs to be cleaned more often.

A musty smell comes from the clothes after a cycle.

How can I save money?

Take advantage of coupons offering discounts to customers who combine a number of services.  Be sure to check out Groupon or even the company’s official website to see if any options are available.

Cleaning your dryer vent can actually save you money as most of the time, if your dryer vent was clogged, it could be raising your utility bills, often by more than $30 per month.

Doing this job on your own isn’t that hard as there are dryer cleaning kits available online to make the process as easy as possible.  On Amazon, for instance, the highest rated cleaning kits retail for $15 to $35 and can be used multiple times.

When choosing a contractor, always ask for a proof insurance, ask for their license and check online reviews to see what others are saying.

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How Much Does a Dryer Motor Replacement Cost?

The dryer motor is responsible for rotating the tumbler, which is the large cylinder that spins while the clothes are drying.   When a dryer motor stops working properly, it will need to be replaced before the problem worsens.

“March of the washer-dryers” (CC BY 2.0) by  WorldIslandInfo.com

 How much does it cost to replace a dryer motor?

Depending on the make and model of the dryer motor, the costs of a dryer motor can range anywhere from $40 to as much as $200 for the part only.  Your OEM dryer motors will always be about twice the amount of an aftermarket motor, again, depending on the make and model.

The prices of different dryer motor brands and models at Amazon.com, for example, range anywhere from $40 to $120. Whirlpool dryer motors can cost $40 to $75, while a Maytag branded dryer motor can cost $75 to $120.  GE clothes dryer motors and Amana dryer motors cost anywhere from $75 to $110.

To have a professional come out to replace the dryer motor, plan on budgeting at least $125 to $300 to complete the whole job.  This cost will, again, depend on the dryer you own, where you live and who you hire.  This job is fairly straightforward most of the time, and many appliance repair companies can offer you a quote right away online.  To receive multiple quotes with ease, consider using HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you simply explain the problem with your dryer and local, licensed contractors will contact you with a quote.

Refer to our table below to see what the most popular brands may cost.  These prices are for the part only and won’t include the professional labor rates.  To play it safe, add another $100 to $200 to the prices below to see what a professional would charge.

Dryer motor overview

During the repair, the drum, either located in the front or the back of the dryer, depending on your make and model, will be removed by popping the lid and panel.  Then, the drive belt from the motor, dryer belt and panels will be disconnected to free the entire drum.  Next, the blower wheel, which is screwed to the motor shaft, will be removed to loosen the motor shaft by disconnecting the electrical connector.  Once the motor is removed, the new motor will be installed on the blower wheel and all parts will be put back.  When done, the dryer will be tested to make sure the motor is in working order.

What are the extra costs?

On top of the replacement, regardless of who you use, you will also have to replace the belt, idler and drum rollers at the same time, adding another $30 to $50 to the costs.

Aside from the dryer mother, other parts may be needed.  These parts could include a motor pulley, which costs about $25 and is often used on certain Maytag gas and electric dryers.  Other parts include a motor coupling, which retails for about $10 and/or a dryer blower, which can be an additional $10 or so.  Do keep in mind most professionals will increase the average part cost by more than 30 percent if you were to hire one.

If the repairman notices anything else that needs repair while replacing the motor, additional fees may apply.

Tips to know:

To know if your dryer motor, indeed, is broken, pay close attention to the noise when you press the start button.  If you hear a humming noise when you press the button, then this is a sign the motor has burnt out.  In some cases, people often believe the motor is bad, when in reality, it’s actually the dryer belt — a part that can cost as little as $20 and is very easy to replace.

Always make sure to get the right part number before purchasing a new or replacement dryer motor.  This model number can be found in the manual of your dryer, or it can be on the dryer motor itself.  Dryer motors are usually compatible with a range of brands and product numbers, but always make sure to ask ahead of time to ensure it’s compatible.

Be sure to check if the dryer motor meets the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) form, fit, and function standards.

How can I save money?

If the repair price is too high, you may want to consider purchasing a new dryer instead, especially if your dryer is 10 years or older.

If you think you are capable, try to replace the dryer motor yourself.  There are many instructional guides online that can walk you through the process.

All part prices aren’t created equal.  Be sure to compare your part number with at least three retailers to see who has the best deal.  It also doesn’t hurt to look at third party parts on eBay. Google Shopping, for example, is a great place to start comparison shopping.

Any dryer younger than two years may still be under the manufacturer’s warranty.  Check with your manufacturer to see if the repair may be covered.  If this were true, always make sure you contact your manufacturer before hiring a repair company as they may not be contracted with them.

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How Much Does Dredging Cost?

The term “dredging” refers to the process involving the aquatic excavation of water beds to remove sediments, pollutants, shellfish and other materials.

This can be done for a number of reasons:  it can deepen waterways, create harbors, channels, locks, docks and/or berths.  Dredging is also essential in de-silting lakes and keeping river entrances and approaches to boat ramps clear.

“Dredging” (CC BY 2.0) by  zieak

How much does dredging cost?

Dredging is a very broad term since the degree of the job varies considerably.  Because of that, the costs are not fixed and it can be hard for a contractor to offer you a quote over the phone.  If the job you want to finish is just about deepening a drainage canal, you can simply use a big bucket and do it from the bank of the canal.  For this kind of work, costs can be around a few hundred dollars per hour; however, if the job is much more complex than restoring the canal depth, such as deepening a shipping channel or a harbor, expect higher costs.  Major jobs like these, which require heavy machinery, will cost thousands of dollars per hour and can go higher, depending on the job and what is required to do it.

The costs, in the end, will depend on the material that needs to be dredged, where the material can be placed once out and the nature of the material that’s being dredged.  From the quotes we have seen online, it can be anywhere between $5 to $20 per cubic yard.

Because every job will be so unique, highly consider getting quotes from local contractors in your area from reputable contractor websites such as HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you can explain your job and local, licensed contractors can contact you with free estimates.

Dredging101.com, for example, shows us how the dredging work is priced.  According to the site, the work is usually priced by the cubic yard of the material that’s going to be dredged.  When determining the cubic yards, take the acres to be dredged and multiply 1,600 cubic yards per foot of material depth.  So for example, if you have a 10-acre lake and the depth of material to be dredged is five feet, your formula will look like this: 10 x 5 x 1,600 = 80,000 cubic yards.  If we take the estimates provided, this scenario could cost more than $600,000.

A recent dredging job completed at Marco Island’s South Beach amounted to $630,000. The entire area was not only excavated, but the beach was extended about 80 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, adding 77,000 cubic yards of sand and had repaired five erosion-prevention structures: three jetties and two T-groins.  For other recent dredging projects, you can visit Dredgingtoday.com and look for the exact costs associated with each project.

Factors that affect the quote

The square footage and the depth

As mentioned the subheading above, the square footage and depth of the water will determine the cubic feet, and this is how most contractors will start their quote.

Sediment that needs to be disposed of and where it can be dewatered

We get into this a bit later, but when the sediment is removed, it will need to be placed somewhere to allow it to be de-water so it can be disposed of later.  Most contractors will prefer a flat and open area where they can potentially create a pad to place the de-watering bag.

The lay of the land

How accessible is your situation?  Is it in the middle of an open field, or are there multiple houses along the shore?  The harder it is to access the lake, the harder it will be to work with the equipment.

Permits

Are you going to get the permits, or will the contractor have to contact and secure them for you?  These permits can be a bit trickier since they will have to work on both a local and federal level.

How dredging can occur

Dry

Dry will involve draining the lake as much as possible, followed by dewatering the sediments by gravity and/or pumping the sediments with equipment such as a bulldozer or backhoe.

Wet

During the wet excavation process, the lake is partially drawn to help minimize the downstream to excavate the sediments by using a buck dredge mounted on a crane.

Hydraulic

The hydraulic process will involve using floating equipment, combined with the use of a cutter head to help loosen up the sediment on the bottom of the water.  During this process, the sediment will be pumped out as a wet slurry and will later be de-watered, allowing the remaining sediment to dry out and be disposed of later.

Pneumatic

The pneumatic dredging process will use air pressure to help pump the sediments out of the lake.  When compared to the hydraulic process, the sediment derived will have a higher solid rate, meaning less area will be needed to help the sediment de-water.

Reverse layer

Lastly, the reverse layer process can often be combined with dredging because it involves the movement of sediment, but unlike the other processes, it won’t entirely remove the sediments from the lake.  The substrate, during the reverse layer process, will be pumped upward, burying it underneath the muck, essentially creating a new healthier layer.

What are the extra costs?

Most contractors will ask for a pond assessment before they even start the job.  If you haven’t had one done yet, then this can be an additional cost to think about.  Depending on the factors mentioned above, a pond assessment can range from the hundreds to well into the thousands.

Dredging processes are extremely complex, and because of this, almost all states will require you to pull local and even federal permits for approval.

Tips to know:

During the dredging process, the sediment that’s removed needs a place to put it.  According to this article on LinkedIn.com, you should be prepared to have an acre of an upland area for every two acres of water that needs to be dredged.

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How Much Does Broken Arm Treatment Cost?

A broken arm can actually refer to the fracture or break of one of the many bones from your wrist to your shoulder.  Although each bone may require a different type of cast for a different period of time, the overall costs will be fairly close.

“Getting A Cast On His Arm” (CC BY 2.0) by  slgckgc

How much does a broken arm cost?

Like any other medical procedure, the costs associated with treating a broken arm depend largely on the severity of the problem.  If it is just a simple fracture, then a simple treatment will do the trick; however, if the fracture proves to be very serious, a cast may not be enough.  Most surgeries in the United States for a broken arm will range anywhere from as little as $250 to as much as $5,800 without any sort of insurance.

The treatment and repair of complex fractures can be upwards of $20,000 or more.

Without insurance, TheLawDictionary.org states that the total costs will be around $2,500 and $3,500; this is the price if the injury is just a simple fracture and only needs a cast.  However, if it is a complex fracture or full break that involves broken skin and nerve or muscle damage, expect to pay a lot more.  Aside from the doctor’s fee, the doubled costs for this would be attributed to the tests, treatments and even therapy that may be done to address your broken arm.

Dineane on HubPages talked about the costs she had paid for her broken arm.  According to her recap, she had spent close to $27,000, not including the pain medication.  This fee included her emergency room visit at a local hospital and the cast application.

An x-ray, for example, costs between $150 and $220.  A CT scan may also be required to further diagnose the concern.  This costs around $500 to $1,000.  Also, a splint, cast or other setting is necessary.  This will also affect the overall costs.  Depending on the size and type of setting that you receive, this will cost you between $200 and $400.

For a surgical treatment, a fracture would include $90 to $200 for the initial or emergency room visit and around $250 to $950 for the exact treatment.  This is according to c-osa.com.

With health insurance, the costs of the treatment are significantly reduced. You can check with the Insurance Commission if you are billed correctly by physicians and medical providers you are using.  If you want to change your health insurance policy or look for a new one, eHealthInsurance.com can help.

Broken arm overview

A “reduction” will be done by the attending physician for patients who have simple breaks only.  After undergoing an x-ray that confirms the broken arm, the doctor positions the broken bones if there is a need.  A cast will be placed on the arm to allow it to heal properly.

For breaks that are complicated enough, the attending doctor would make an incision and implant wires, screws or other hardware to hold the bones in place during healing.  This may be a complicated process, but will truly address the issue.

As for the healing or recovery process, the time will largely depend on the extent of the damage.

What are the extra costs?

Doctor’s visit

Like any other medical procedure, a doctor’s visit (or several doctor visits) will really take a toll on your budget.  Specifically, each of these will cost between $150 and $300.  Not to mention that the cost may rise significantly if your first visit brings you directly to the emergency room.  Emergency room visits will cost more than visiting the doctor’s office.

Therapy

If your broken arm needs more than just a cast for recovery due to its severe damage, you may need to undergo physical therapy.  If your doctor requires this, your costs will undoubtedly rise further.  Basically, treatments not related to the original fracture or surgery will have a separate fee.  The average physical therapy session fee without insurance can cost close to $150 to $200 each.

Cast changes

For serious fractures, the cast may need to be changed every couple weeks.  This, of course, will add to the expenses.  The same thing goes for slings, splints and braces.

X-rays

Sometimes additional x-rays are required to further diagnose the concern and to check the development of the treatment.  As we all know, each x-ray scan will be charged.  However, if you bring your previous x-rays to another facility, the physician will have them reviewed and no charges will be made.

Supply charges

It is known that most hospitals bill separately for supply charges such as braces, slings, ace bandages, suture trays and other items.  Usually, the charges for cast changes due to the patient request are not covered by your insurance.

Emergency room

If you went to an emergency room, then you should add at least $1,000 to $2,500 to the total costs mentioned above.

Tips to know:

Statistics tell us that broken arms account for around half of all bone fractures in adults.

Broken bones are considered medical emergencies and should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

The number of days for follow up varies by the type of surgery or the severity of the fracture.  However, most physicians would agree that it is normally 90 days.

It is always wise to ask your healthcare provider about any payment plans on offer before agreeing to pay for any treatment.

Questions to ask your doctor

Will my insurance cover the expenses for the treatment of my broken arm?

Do I need a separate therapy after the treatment?

How many days will it take for my broken arm to be fully movable again?

How long will I be wearing a cast?

Can I get additional braces for free with my insurance backing me up?  Or will that be billed separately?

How can I save money?

Always make sure that you are covered by your health insurance.  Treatments of broken bones are no joke.  Thus, full or partial coverage will truly help a lot.

Consider a hospital that offers discounts.  Many hospitals will offer cash discounts or even waive fees if you meet certain income requirements.

If your budget does not allow you to go to private hospitals, you can opt for free clinics such as community hospitals.  Some of these government-run hospitals offer free orthopedic specialty care.

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How Much Does Dry Ice Cost?

Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide and is commonly used to transport items that need to be kept cool.

Dry ice received its name since it changes from a solid to a gas and will never melt into water.  It’s a versatile product that has many uses for a number of consumer and commercial uses.

“dry ice is fun” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  Herkie

How much does dry ice cost?

The price of dry ice will depend on where you purchase it, but in most cases, the price will be about $1 to $3 per pound.

If you were to buy in bulk, which is often available in 50-pound block forms, then the costs can drop to about $30 to $40.

At Meijer, for example, a popular grocery store chain in the Midwest, they sell their Penguin branded dry ice for $1.69 per pound.

Walmart sells the same brand for a similar price, around $1.50 per pound.

DryIceDelivered.com will deliver dry ice to your doorstep, but they do require a 10-pound minimum.  Their prices, according to their pricing list, range anywhere from $1 per pound if you purchase 10 to 24 pounds to as little as $0.50 per pound if you were to buy more than 250 pounds.

Dry ice overview

Dry ice can be purchased at just about any grocery store, including Safeway, Albertsons, Fred Meyer, H-E-B, Kroger, Meijer, Publix, Walmart, Winco and Costco, but to play it safe, always call the store ahead of time to see if a location near you carries it.  With a grocery store, most will sell the Penguin brand as mentioned above.

When purchased at a local retailer, dry ice will usually come in 10-inch squares that are two inches thick.  Each square, on average, will weigh close to 10 pounds.

What are the extra costs?

An insulated cooler is a must when transporting dry ice, and as a general rule of thumb, plan on storing 20 pounds of dry ice inside a 40-gallon cooler.  Since this cooler is much cooler than the average freezer temperature, an insulated cooler can keep it much cooler.  Generally, the thicker the insulated cooler is and the tighter the seal is, the slower the dry ice will disappear.  A simple styrofoam cooler, if you don’t have one, will generally retail for about $20 to $30.

Tips to know:

When buying dry ice, always try to purchase it as soon as you need.  Since it has a very short shelf life, you can plan on every five to 10 pounds of dry ice turning from a solid into a gas.  DryIceInfo.com recommends using 10 to 20 pounds per 24 hours.  If left outside of the cooler, it may only last a few hours, depending on the conditions.

Never handle dry ice with your bare hands.  Even though brief contact is harmless, it’s always wise to wear leather gloves to avoid freezing your skin cells.  If you don’t have access to leather gloves, an oven mitt or even a towel can suffice.

Refrain from storing the dry ice inside of a freezer as this will cause the freezer’s thermostat to drop, effectively shutting it off and putting the food inside at risk.

When you’re done with dry ice, the University of Vermont recommends letting the unused portion sublimate in a well-ventilated area.  Never dispose of it in a sink, toilet or another device.

How to make dry ice

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How Much Does a Water Massage Bed Cost?

A water massage bed, which is sometimes referred to as a hydrotherapy massage table, is becoming widely recognized as a good way to deal with stress.

These beds are extensively used in spas, but as of late, many individuals are purchasing them for home use.

How much does an aqua massage bed cost?

On average, most water massage beds are going to range anywhere from as little as $2,500 to as much as $18,000.  It is not uncommon to see some higher-end models fetch prices as high as $30,000 or more.

For example, Hammacher.com in New York, offers The Dry Water Jet Massager, a full-body water jet massage table for $36,000.  This table doesn’t get you wet, uses aromatherapy, relaxing audio and video to soothe the user’s tactile, olfactory, auditory, and optical senses.

Factors that affect the price

Technology

Water massage beds typically come with hydro jets that produce various levels of water pressure and intensity during the hydro massage.  Some have rotating hydro jets strategically located from the cervical spine to the leg area.  The built-in heating system with electronic thermostat controls the temperature of the water while a radiator protects the bed or table from overheating.  The more expensive units, such as the Hammacher Schlemmer water jet massagers, which are made of durable fiberglass, are equipped with microprocessors that control the pulsating water to produce a range of massage techniques.

Features

Water massage beds typically have hydro jets, a thermostat, a timer, and a pressure controller.  Many high-end water massage beds come with a number of pressure settings and a sophisticated water release system. The more expensive ones also have features like an integrated LCD screen with DVD player, Bose headphones, and an aroma diffuser.

Massage technique

Different water massage beds and tables produce different massage techniques, owing to their type of setup.  There are also water massage beds that have the capability of producing a type of massage that penetrates deep into the soft tissues, especially if the individual stays longer on the bed.  More expensive units are programmed to provide a massage method that replicates shiatsu, or finger pressure massage.

Aqua massage bed overview

A water massage bed is a self-contained, user-operated bed that uses a pulsating jet mechanism to massage the whole body or selected areas only.  Some high-end units come in the form of a capsule.  The thermostatically-controlled bed is equipped with water jets that pulsate and run up and down the bed.  The water jets can be controlled and halted on specific locations to work on certain trigger points or muscle spasms.  The bed usually comes with a built-in timer, different levels of pressure, and travel speeds.  The temperature can also be set as well as the cooling systems that protect the unit from overheating.

When in use, the bed can be adjusted according to various levels of heat, pressure, duration and target treatment settings to provide the needs of the user.

Some units are equipped with an LCD panel, an LCD player and headphones that can be used with an iPod or CD player.  They also have an integrated aroma diffuser that emits subtle fragrances to enhance the experience of the individual using the bed.

What are the extra costs?

Massage table warming pads may be necessary for use in some water massage beds.  Warming pads produce therapeutic heat during hydromassage sessions and distribute the heat equally across the surface of the pad, eliminating cold spots.  Massage table warming pads can cost $30 to $300 and up, depending on quality and features.

Tips to know:

Water massage beds do not require plumbing or special installation.  The built-in reservoir just needs to be filled with water and plugged into an AC outlet.  Some manufacturers provide in-home setup of the hydromassage equipment and removal of packing materials.

Make sure that the water massage bed can hold and support the weight of the heaviest individual likely to use it. Ask the dealer about the weight capacity before making a choice.

If you are buying a water massage bed for business use, make sure that it comes with resources for installation, training, and maintenance.

Inquire about the warranty offered.  Some units come with a 3-year warranty on the tub and frame, a 2-year warranty on parts, and 90 days labor.

Questions to ask a retailer

How does your water massage bed work?

Can I lie on the bed in any position?

How long can I lie on the water massage bed?

Can other forms of treatment be incorporated into the water massage bed?

What are the requirements for installing the bed?

How often should the water be changed?

Does the water massage bed need maintenance?  If so, how often?

How can I save money?

Ask about the most reasonable form of financing if purchasing from a local retailer.

If you are starting a business and need to buy more than one water massage bed, be sure to ask about discounts.  Some manufacturers do offer bulk discounts.

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How Much Do DreamCatchers Extensions Cost?

DreamCatchers extensions use a micro cylinder method by adding extra volume and/or length without using any glue, wax or heat.

Using a specialized method, these extensions will be threaded through a cylinder to the root where the extensions will be inserted and clamped tight.

These extensions use 100 percent human hair and can be used over and over again.

How much do DreamCatchers extensions cost?

The extensions, without even going to a salon, can cost anywhere from $75 to $175 for about 100 to 200 strands.  According to BehindTheChair.com, the average customer requires five bundles, bringing the average cost for materials alone to $500 if you were to need five bundles.  Again, this is for the materials only.  Plus, aside from the extensions, a micro-cylinder will be required, which will cost about $5.

Depending on the number of strands you need and the length you want, these extensions can cost anywhere from $500 for 12 inches to as much as $1,500 for 24 inches if you were to go to a local salon and have a professional stylist install them.  Many stylists will charge based on the number of bundles they need to complete the job, so if you needed four bundles for a full head install, the stylist may charge $100 per bundle, plus the material cost.

If you’re only looking for a few strands, then plan on spending about $7 to $17 per strand.

Madeline Hair Design, for example, charges $950 for up to 20 inches and $1,500 for 14 inches.

Tovani Hair says the average cost can cost about $800 to $1,200 for a full head install.  This cost will really depend on the length you want, the volume of your hair and the density desired.

Hair by Krystal lists her prices on her website and charges $125 per hour, plus the cost of hair, which is about $100 per bundle.  She says the average person needs five to seven bundles and it can take two to four hours to install.

DreamCatchers extensions overview

The extensions come in 30 colors, with 20, 22 and 24-inch lengths.

It takes two to three hours, on average to put, in these extensions, and the time it takes will depend on the length and volume of your hair.

These extensions can last nine to 12 months if taken care of properly.

What are the extra costs?

Adjustment appointments will be necessary every six weeks as your natural hair grows since the cylinders attached to your extensions will need to be moved up.  An adjustment visit is usually less than $100 and should take about 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

Every 12 weeks or so, you will need a new set of cylinders, which like the adjustment appointment, will take up to 60 minutes and will cost about $100 to $200.

To remove your extensions, it could cost upwards of $100 to $200, depending on your extensions and your hair’s condition.

If you need to color your hair to match one of the 30 colors the company offers, then this hair color will be an additional charge.  DreamCatchers recommends coloring your natural hair before having the extensions installed.

Tips to know:

DreamCatcher extensions use 100% human hair, and because of this, it can be washed, dried, permed, curled, or styled any way you want, just like the way you would do with your own hair.

How can I save money?

Many salons offer promotions for first-time customers or even existing customers.  Talk with your favorite salon to see if they have any current offers.

Consider checking out Groupon.com to see if any local deal sites are offering a heavily discounted deal.

Remember, DreamCatchers are only a “type” of hair extensions.  If you feel the prices are too high, then consider other hair extension options that are much cheaper.

Many stylists will meet with you for free and can discuss your options.  It doesn’t hurt to talk with a handful in your area to see what they may charge.   The official DreamCatcher website always recommends choosing a qualified technician who has gone through the appropriate training when applying your hair.  You can click here to find a qualified stylist in your area.

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How Much Does Dog Cremation Cost?

Cremation is one of the few options you have once your dog has passed away.

It’s considered to be more practical, environmentally friendly and is also convenient since you will be able to see and connect with your pet anytime you want rather than having to go to the burial spot at a local pet cemetery.

“Denver: Liz & Alex’s Wedding” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by eliduke

How much does dog cremation cost?

There are two types of dog cremation your vet will offer you: an individual cremation, where your dog is cremation alone, or a mass/communal cremation, where your dog will be cremated with other pets.  On average, depending on where you live, the size of your pet and which option you choose, a dog cremation will cost anywhere $50 to $100 for a mass cremation or about $150 to $300 for a private cremation.

About.com says that the average cost of private dog cremation is around $150 to $300, while a mass or community cremation usually costs around $50 to $150.

The Cremation Resource says the average cost will be about $50 to $150 depending on your location, pet’s weight and the option you choose.

We received estimates from various cremation services for dogs located throughout the United States and included the quotes we received in our table below:

Dog cremation overview

With a private cremation, regardless of which option you choose, you will get your pet’s ashes after it has been cremated.  Your pet’s ashes will be returned to you in a plastic bag that is kept inside a decorative box.  If you choose to not purchase a special memorial box, however, your dog’s ashes will be put in a generic one.  This way, you will not have to worry about handling and moving the ashes yourself.

Mass or community cremation means that, since your dog is going to be cremated along with other animals, its ashes will not be returned to you in some cases.  Instead, they will be disposed of in a private cemetery or taken to a landfill.  This will be disclosed to you before you choose this option.  If you were to receive the ashes, however, other ashes will be blended in with your dog.

What are the extra costs?

For an additional fee, the pet mortuary can pick up your pet at home for a small fee.  This fee, which is usually around $25 to $50 or much higher if done during after hours, will greatly depend upon on how far they have to travel.  This charge may be waived if the pet was picked up at the vet’s clinic.

You will have to to pay extra if you want your dog’s ashes kept in a special ornamental box, figurine, or urn.   These items can either be purchased from a pet crematory or even online.   An urn or ornamental box, on average, will cost about $25 to $75+, depending on the materials it’s made of and where you purchase it from.

Aside from storing the ashes inside of an ornamental box or even an urn, there are other ways to remember your pet, such as using a lock of fur inside a piece of jewelry or a paw print.  Like the urn, these memorial pieces can be an additional cost to consider.

If the dog has to be euthanized before the cremation process, then additional fees will apply.  This can be an additional $50 to $150.

Some services will allow a witness to watch over the process to ensure you get your dog’s ashes back.  If you were to need a witness, this could be another $75 to $125.

Tips to know:

Choose a reputable company to ensure you will be getting your pet’s ashes only  This means that the ashes are free of any other animal’s remains.

Most vets won’t have a crematory on site, and more often than not, they will have a third-party contract with an outside service.  If your dog happened to pass away at home, your vet will be able to recommend a reputable third-party provider they work with.

Due to environmental restrictions, a dog’s blanket, toy or anything not related to the dog can’t be cremated along with the pet.

How can I save money?

If you’re on a strict budget and simply want your dog cremated, consider the mass option as this is often the cheapest route.

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How Much Does a Dog Broken Leg Cost?

A dog’s broken leg, also referred to as a fracture, can be just as painful and debilitating as a broken leg for a human.

Just like a human, a dog can break its leg in many ways.  This can include simply playing around, being hit by a car, bone cancer, an inherited defect, age or even because of the breed.

“Poor lil girl, broke her leg” (CC BY 2.0) by jeffreyw

How much does a dog broken leg cost?

On average, the cost to treat a dog’s broken leg is going to vary anywhere from $400 to as much as $3,500.  If multiple bones within the leg are broken, you can expect to pay more than $2,000; however, if the break is not as severe as expected, it can be less than $600.  The costs will depend on which leg was broken, the severity of the break, if the break is open or closed, the vet you are working with the geographical location.

Depending on your local cost of living and the severity of your dog’s broken leg, Vetary.com says the costs could be anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000, but the national average is $2,000.

Dr. Harrison on JustAnswer.com answered this very question.  He said a simple splint at his office could cost $55 to $75, but first, there would be an exam charge, and if an x-ray were required, this could be an additional cost as well.  To perform the surgery, the costs could cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000, depending on what’s fractured and who’s performing the surgery.  A specialist, for instance, will cost more.  These costs will vary, according to him, because you need to factor in the blood work, x-rays, aftercare, medication and hospitalization.  When everything is said and done, the costs could be as little as $100 to more than $3,000.

VetStreet.com says the cost of a broken leg and hospitalization, along with radiographs, anesthesia, pain medication, the surgery itself and follow-up visits, can cost upwards of $10,000, depending on the number of fractures and how long your dog needs to stay at the ICU.

Overview

Before any treatment options are even considered, the veterinarian will first order an x-ray, an ultrasound and/or blood work to determine the extent of the damage, but before doing so, your vet will more than likely administer pain medication and/or run a fluid IV to help the dog cope with the pain and prevent any incoming infections.  A catheter could also be used in case your dog can’t stand to urinate. In the case of severe trauma, such as a car accident, the vet will want to check all internal organs to see if any complications were to occur in the abdominal, lung, chest and/or heart area.  With some car accidents, it may cause a collapsed lung or even other fractures outside of the leg.

Depending on the severity of the break, the vet will have a few choices.  For breaks that are not as severe, a simple cast or splint can be put on and the dog will still be allowed to get around, even if it means doing so on three legs for a while.  The other option is surgery, which is usually only necessary with severe breaks of multiple bones, may include using a fixation device implanted under the skin and in the bone by using screws, plates or wires.  In very rare circumstances, the dog’s leg may need to be amputated in the case of a damaged leg beyond repair.

The recovery period will depend on the dog’s circumstances, but in most cases, the hospital stay will range anywhere from as little as one day for a cast to as long as two weeks for a complex surgery.  During this time, the vet will want to monitor your dog’s progress.

What are the extra costs?

The x-ray performed before the treatment can be an additional cost, depending on your vet’s billing policy.

Whether or not your dog needs surgery, medication for pain and swelling after the treatment will be prescribed.  Plan on budgeting about $30 to $50 for the prescriptions.

Follow up consultations after the surgery usually won’t be included in the initial cost of treatment.

Physical therapy for your dog may be required if the leg needs to be rehabilitated.  This often entails your dog running on an underwater treadmill-like device to help the dog gain back its strength.

Emergency care will always increase the bill by more than 50 to 200 percent.

Tips to know:

Some visible signs that your dog has a broken leg may include swelling, bleeding, holding its leg up, whining, a visible wound, and/or the inability to support their own body weight.  They may also limp as it attempts to walk or may just lie around, licking their leg.  Most dogs will not want to be touched or patted when they are in pain.  They may even become aggressive if you attempt to touch or move the injured leg.  Sometimes a broken bone does not produce any external wound.  If your dog displays symptoms of a broken leg, you take it to a vet even if the signs are not visible.

How can I save money?

If you can’t afford the procedure, check with your vet’s office to see if they have any payment plans available.  Some offices may be able to set you up with financing or even setup a payment plan.

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How Much Does Cryotherapy Cost?

Cryotherapy has been said to be “an ice pack on steroids.”

Those who suffer from chronic pain step into a chamber for a few minutes, where the intense cold is believed to minimize inflammation from injuries to help with the recovery process.

Cold therapy has been used by ages, and proponents say this therapy can help reduce your skin temperature, constrict your blood vessels and help you feel energized once the session has been completed.

How much does cryotherapy cost?

A single whole body session can cost anywhere from $20 to $80, and the cost will really depend on your geographical market, the type of cryotherapy and the center you visit.  At most centers, if you opt for a package or sign up for a monthly membership, this can bring the session costs down by more than 30 percent.  These monthly memberships can range from $150 to $250 and can offer anywhere from six to unlimited sessions in a month.

At some centers, they can also offer a localized cryotherapy option, which can target a particular body part.  These sessions, unlike a whole body session, can cost about 20 to 40 percent less.

Cryo Facial treatments, a procedure designed to target the face only, will increase the collagen within the face and also help decrease your pore size.  This treatment option, from our research, can be the priciest, costing anywhere from $50 to $85 per session, on average.

Cryology™, a center offered in Alpharetta, Georgia, offers whole body cryotherapy sessions for $40 per session, but if you’re a member, it will drop to $20 per session.

The CryoUSA Active Recovery Centers, based in Texas, offer three whole body sessions for $150 and 10 whole body sessions for $450.  Like Cryology™, they also offer multiple monthly membership options that allow you to save more.

Cryotherapy overview

During the treatment, you will first be asked to wear the appropriate garments.  For men, this will include either close-fitting shorts or nothing at all.  For women, shorts and a sports bra is recommended; however, women can wear nothing at all as well.  Both men and women will be asked to wear gloves and socks to protect their feet and fingers from the cold exposure.  When it’s time to step into the chamber, a staff member will watch as you step inside the cylindrical chamber that’s about the height of your shoulders, leaving your head and neck exposed.  After disrobing, your body will then be sprayed with liquid nitrogen or refrigerated air, followed by the temperatures dropping to -250 degrees Fahrenheit.  Depending on how well you react to the therapy, you will sit inside the chamber for two to four minutes.

Once the session ends, you will then be asked to perform a cardiovascular routine to warm your body back up.

Tips to know:

This isn’t an FDA approved procedure and there isn’t much in terms of research for whole-body cryotherapy as a medical treatment.  Most of the information you see online will come from anecdotal evidence from those who have experienced it.  Those who suffer from musculoskeletal pain or even headaches may want to try this treatment to see if it can help.  Aside from this, Scottsdale Cryotherapy says it can help with arthritis, chronic pain, stress, psoriasis, weight loss, multiple sclerosis, depression, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms, skin disorders, fatigue, asthma, sleep disorders and much more.

Cryotherapy side effects can often leave you with some unusual sensations after the session is complete such as a numbness or a tingling feeling.  It can also irritate the skin and even cause frostbite if your skin were to touch the sides of the chamber.

Is cryotherapy safe?  As mentioned, this procedure isn’t approved by the FDA and hasn’t been cleared for medical purposes, and currently, no group has been tracking the injuries in regards to this device.  A recent review article published in the Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine, “Until further research is available, athletes should remain cognizant that less expensive modes of cryotherapy, such as a local ice-pack application or cold-water immersion, offer comparable physiological and clinical effects to [whole body cryotherapy.”

How can I save money?

Cryotherapy sessions are often offered on Groupon.com for new customers.

Many local centers will offer customers a first-time discount or package opportunity.  Check out a local center’s website or even contact them to see if they can help you save money.

As noted above, many centers offer membership packages for its clients.  These memberships will work a lot like signing up for karate or a yoga studio, for instance.  You will pay a certain fixed monthly price, and depending on the package you buy, it will include a certain number of sessions you can take advantage of, along with other benefits.  Generally, the more you spend per month, the more you will get.  To give you an example, The Cryo Clinic offers three membership options, with prices ranging from $150 to $250 per month.  The $250 per month package will include unlimited sessions, whereas the $150 per month package will include eight cryotherapy sessions.

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