How do you know if it is time for furnace repair, or if you should replace the whole hvac system? Here are some tips to help you know if you can fix the existing unit or if you should consider purchasing a new one.
If the furnace is older than 15 years, it is time to call a professional to perform a thorough check-up and to see if there are problems that need to be fixed. The same applies if the air conditioner or the heat pump is older than ten years. A professional expert can perform an overall check to see if the unit should be replaced, if there are any repairs that need to be done and if there are ways that the performance of the unit can be improved. Even if you do not need to buy a new unit or to replace the furnace, any heating and cooling unit that is older than ten years should be checked professionally. If you need a professional in your area, check out Champs HVAC.
If some of the rooms in the house feel warmer or colder than others, if you need to keep fixing regular problems in the system or if you have noticed higher energy bills in the recent past without an actual reason, it might be time to replace the furnace. If you replace it with a newer model that has the government’s “energy star”, you can end up saving money as the new models are much more efficient and can save as much as 20% in your air conditioning and heating bills. If you do not need to buy a new heating and air conditioning unit, but are considering investing in a new furnace, an energy star –labeled furnace can save around 5% in your heating bills if it is installed professionally. Make sure it includes a thermostat you can program to switch the system on or off.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Electricians - What You Need To Become One
What does it takes to be an electrician? You may be considering a career in this field and don't know where to start. If you are the type who love wires, fuses, and just about anything to do with electricity, then joining the ranks of master electricians may just be the right path for you. It is the electrician who installs, troubleshoots and maintains all types of electrical systems.
What are the qualities and characteristics required to become a master electrician? For one, you should be physically fit as it requires deep stamina to carry equipments and supplies. Secondly, you should have good hand-eye coordination, agility and ability to work in small places. Third, you must be able to perform simple math accurately as you need to be able to calculate voltage, amps, power, and loads on the fly. Fourth, you should definitely have an understanding of the basics of electrical terms, theories and plans. Lastly, you must be comfortable working with heights. Take note that this job is risky so you must know the best practices and precautions in preventing injury from electric shocks.
Becoming an electrician doesn't happen overnight, it takes a lot of study. Requirements vary from state to state. If you have already finished high school, that is one requirement that you can mark off the checklist in becoming an electrician. Consider enrolling in technical schools so you can upgrade your skills. Getting licensed is the best way as it will give you more opportunities to earn more money in the future.
You can later find career options in construction, home or office repair, or even start your own freelance or home-based business. This is a thriving profession and in the next decades, it will continue to be in demand. As long as electricity is here to stay and more buildings are being built that run on it, electricians will never be out of a job.
For more information on electricians, visit Champs Electrical, a blog maintained by Atlanta electricians.
What are the qualities and characteristics required to become a master electrician? For one, you should be physically fit as it requires deep stamina to carry equipments and supplies. Secondly, you should have good hand-eye coordination, agility and ability to work in small places. Third, you must be able to perform simple math accurately as you need to be able to calculate voltage, amps, power, and loads on the fly. Fourth, you should definitely have an understanding of the basics of electrical terms, theories and plans. Lastly, you must be comfortable working with heights. Take note that this job is risky so you must know the best practices and precautions in preventing injury from electric shocks.
Becoming an electrician doesn't happen overnight, it takes a lot of study. Requirements vary from state to state. If you have already finished high school, that is one requirement that you can mark off the checklist in becoming an electrician. Consider enrolling in technical schools so you can upgrade your skills. Getting licensed is the best way as it will give you more opportunities to earn more money in the future.
You can later find career options in construction, home or office repair, or even start your own freelance or home-based business. This is a thriving profession and in the next decades, it will continue to be in demand. As long as electricity is here to stay and more buildings are being built that run on it, electricians will never be out of a job.
For more information on electricians, visit Champs Electrical, a blog maintained by Atlanta electricians.
Friday, August 6, 2010
All About Handicapped Bathtubs
Handicapped bathtubs or walk-in tubs are the special bathtubs for those who have mobility issues. There are different types of models available, and all models come with a door that can be opened or closed. The door is always properly sealed to prevent the water leakage. These tubs are provided with non-slippery surfaces on the seat as well as on the floor to reduce slip and prevent injury. Some handicap bathtubs are even provided with handle bars on the sides of the bathtub to add more stability and control.
There are also therapeutic whirlpool models that are specially designed for people with muscle soreness, joint aches, or circulation problem. Most of the models have low curbs making it easy for people with disabilities to use the tub. The doors in the tub can be moved out or in depending on the need of an individual. The tubs allow access even in sitting or standing position and this is the ideal model for those who really want to submerge in the water. A handicap bathtub is also suitable for elderly people with health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
These bathtubs are available in different style and size. Some models look like an ordinary tub with an extra side door. Some look like Jacuzzis with one seat and some are raised up to wheelchair height for easy access. The main benefit of getting this tub is safety. Stepping over a ledge is not safe, but walking through a door is very simple and safe. The handicap bathtubs are little expensive, but most of the insurance providers today provide coverage for the cost of this bathtub since it is considered as the medical device.
This bathtub makes life simple and more convenient. Moreover, this tub provides more independence and safety.
There are also therapeutic whirlpool models that are specially designed for people with muscle soreness, joint aches, or circulation problem. Most of the models have low curbs making it easy for people with disabilities to use the tub. The doors in the tub can be moved out or in depending on the need of an individual. The tubs allow access even in sitting or standing position and this is the ideal model for those who really want to submerge in the water. A handicap bathtub is also suitable for elderly people with health conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
These bathtubs are available in different style and size. Some models look like an ordinary tub with an extra side door. Some look like Jacuzzis with one seat and some are raised up to wheelchair height for easy access. The main benefit of getting this tub is safety. Stepping over a ledge is not safe, but walking through a door is very simple and safe. The handicap bathtubs are little expensive, but most of the insurance providers today provide coverage for the cost of this bathtub since it is considered as the medical device.
This bathtub makes life simple and more convenient. Moreover, this tub provides more independence and safety.
Friday, July 16, 2010
A Red Chandelier Provides a Striking Decor Accent
A red chandelier is not likely to be the first option one would consider in decorating a room. However, it can serve as a striking decor accent or become the focal point of a dining room. This item is not as difficult to find and you might imagine. There are products in stores and online, made of nearly every material the item of a different color would be. Centuries ago this item was commonly used in churches, made of wood and nails to hold candles. Wealthier homes had more ornate fixtures in this color.
A traditional or classic fixture uses lucite beads to replace crystals. The entire piece is covered in the bright color and it provides plenty of shimmer, just like crystal or glass. It can be found at Home Depot for around $150. It holds six candle bulbs and uses a large red ball in the center.
You can spend thousands on a small chandelier made of hand blown glass and brass framework. However, you do not need a large budget to own an attractive piece. There are plenty of options in the $100 to $200 price range that are very stylish options. Some are more modern, while others are made in a more traditional style, with scroll work and many beads strung in a highly organized fashion.
One model consists of a single tier round polished nickel frame, with five bases of the dark amber and white shades. It is very simple, yet elegant. Such a piece will draw plenty of attention to the area. A chrome frame with candles bulbs, and shade cover of this color provide a very trendy look.
If you want something a bit simpler, a single pendant model is always a great choice. Such a product can be hung as high or low as you want, so it can be placed where it will provide the most desirable amount of light, while still making a statement. At around $95, it is a very affordable option.
A traditional or classic fixture uses lucite beads to replace crystals. The entire piece is covered in the bright color and it provides plenty of shimmer, just like crystal or glass. It can be found at Home Depot for around $150. It holds six candle bulbs and uses a large red ball in the center.
You can spend thousands on a small chandelier made of hand blown glass and brass framework. However, you do not need a large budget to own an attractive piece. There are plenty of options in the $100 to $200 price range that are very stylish options. Some are more modern, while others are made in a more traditional style, with scroll work and many beads strung in a highly organized fashion.
One model consists of a single tier round polished nickel frame, with five bases of the dark amber and white shades. It is very simple, yet elegant. Such a piece will draw plenty of attention to the area. A chrome frame with candles bulbs, and shade cover of this color provide a very trendy look.
If you want something a bit simpler, a single pendant model is always a great choice. Such a product can be hung as high or low as you want, so it can be placed where it will provide the most desirable amount of light, while still making a statement. At around $95, it is a very affordable option.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Understanding HVAC Basics
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) refers to a system that combines both heating and air conditioning for indoor or car use. The mechanism behind it is simple: It contains an air conditioning aspect that converts water to vapor to provide the cooling effect, and a heating system that heavily relies on heat pump or furnace to supply constant heating that is perfect during winter seasons. The way heating operates is that it has a warming exchange where air is converted to warm air.
To understand the refrigeration and heating activities of an HVAC, picture out an air being sucked into the system. The heat elements of this air get removed and only the cold part is filtered in. HVAC has a compressor that converts this to hot coolants so that when they reach the coils, all heat is gone and what's left is condensed liquid. This is then absorbed by the expansion valve where it turns into cold vapor.
As the vapor passes through evaporator coils, it picks up heat which subsequently produces cool air and is distributed throughout the enclosed space. The heating process is relatively simple. The two main components responsible for the delivery of hot air are the heat pump and furnace. They simply sucks in and converts air into warm air to be used in homes or offices.
One type of HVAC system is the furnace and condensing system. In this type of equipment, air is sucked from external sources using ERV and HRVs that substitutes HVAC air with fresh external air from the environment while attempting to recoup energy in the system before releasing the dirtier air that has already been processed. When purchasing an HVAC, make sure there is an efficient system that makes use of electricity and natural gas in pumping out hot and cold air. When having that system installed, be sure to hire a licensed professional. Many companies like Heater Repair Atlanta, offer professional service at reasonable rates. Hiring a pro not only makes sure the job is done right but it also protects the warranty on your new equipment.
To understand the refrigeration and heating activities of an HVAC, picture out an air being sucked into the system. The heat elements of this air get removed and only the cold part is filtered in. HVAC has a compressor that converts this to hot coolants so that when they reach the coils, all heat is gone and what's left is condensed liquid. This is then absorbed by the expansion valve where it turns into cold vapor.
As the vapor passes through evaporator coils, it picks up heat which subsequently produces cool air and is distributed throughout the enclosed space. The heating process is relatively simple. The two main components responsible for the delivery of hot air are the heat pump and furnace. They simply sucks in and converts air into warm air to be used in homes or offices.
One type of HVAC system is the furnace and condensing system. In this type of equipment, air is sucked from external sources using ERV and HRVs that substitutes HVAC air with fresh external air from the environment while attempting to recoup energy in the system before releasing the dirtier air that has already been processed. When purchasing an HVAC, make sure there is an efficient system that makes use of electricity and natural gas in pumping out hot and cold air. When having that system installed, be sure to hire a licensed professional. Many companies like Heater Repair Atlanta, offer professional service at reasonable rates. Hiring a pro not only makes sure the job is done right but it also protects the warranty on your new equipment.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Improve Organization with Rolling Storage Units
Finding a dependable and reliable home or office storage can be challenging especially if you are not aware of the existing storage options. One practical and economical solution to keep an organized home or office space is to invest in a dependable rolling storage. Sometimes, opting for fixed storage fixtures is not always the perfect option, especially if space is a concern. Unlike permanent storages, the rolling variety is more flexible in terms of use and application. Since they have built-in wheels, they offer a great way to answer the users ever changing storage needs. In fact, they can be used as a portable storage aside from the permanent storage fixtures that you already have at home.
The best thing about them is the fact that you can conveniently move them around. For instance, if you have children living with you, having a rolling cabinet storage would certainly come in handy. You can tidy up the room in an instant by rolling the cabinet storage into the cluttered area of the house. Since children love to play with their toys, you can teach them to store their toys in the rolling cabinets after they finish playing with them. This way, you will not only keep the house organized at all times but you can also impart the importance of house organization to your kids. At an early age, they will already learn how to become systematic.
Rolling storage units can be practically used in any areas that require additional storage. Unlike the typical storage containers, the rolling variety can be easily stored in any available storage area. Moreover, they are portable and easy to use. They come in many different forms such as carts, drawers, and cabinets. They can store a broad array of items including papers, toys, hand tools, and many more. These units are also constructed in varying materials like wood, plastic, aluminum, and metal. Rolling office or home storage units are now widely sold in different local retail shops, online shopping sites, and department stores.
Furthermore, they come in many different models that include different features. Some models are even designed to serve dual purposes. They can be integrated in office spaces, garages, inconspicuous rooms, and other areas that need to be kept organized. They are sold in a broad range of styles, from two file rolling drawers, three-file rolling cabinets, up to multi-functional rolling carts. They typically come with numerous compartments, which can be used to stash all kinds of items. They can be acquired in varying sizes depending on the amount of items that you need to store inside them.
With that said, investing in rolling storage units will not only allow you to eliminate clutter but will also help you keep a neat and more organized space.
The best thing about them is the fact that you can conveniently move them around. For instance, if you have children living with you, having a rolling cabinet storage would certainly come in handy. You can tidy up the room in an instant by rolling the cabinet storage into the cluttered area of the house. Since children love to play with their toys, you can teach them to store their toys in the rolling cabinets after they finish playing with them. This way, you will not only keep the house organized at all times but you can also impart the importance of house organization to your kids. At an early age, they will already learn how to become systematic.
Rolling storage units can be practically used in any areas that require additional storage. Unlike the typical storage containers, the rolling variety can be easily stored in any available storage area. Moreover, they are portable and easy to use. They come in many different forms such as carts, drawers, and cabinets. They can store a broad array of items including papers, toys, hand tools, and many more. These units are also constructed in varying materials like wood, plastic, aluminum, and metal. Rolling office or home storage units are now widely sold in different local retail shops, online shopping sites, and department stores.
Furthermore, they come in many different models that include different features. Some models are even designed to serve dual purposes. They can be integrated in office spaces, garages, inconspicuous rooms, and other areas that need to be kept organized. They are sold in a broad range of styles, from two file rolling drawers, three-file rolling cabinets, up to multi-functional rolling carts. They typically come with numerous compartments, which can be used to stash all kinds of items. They can be acquired in varying sizes depending on the amount of items that you need to store inside them.
With that said, investing in rolling storage units will not only allow you to eliminate clutter but will also help you keep a neat and more organized space.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Simple Yet Effective Steps to Clean Your Glass Sinks
The use of glass sinks is now fast becoming a popular trend among bathroom designs. These sinks can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any room that they are installed in. They practically come in a wide array of designs, styles, types, sizes, shapes, and forms.
If you happen to own one, you should know how to properly care for it so you will be able to maximize its use. Maintaining sinks that are made of glass is not that difficult. In fact, you can preserve the alluring appeal and stylish look of your sink with just a few easy tricks.
Whether you are cleaning a glass bath sink or a glass kitchen sink, these steps will surely help you to successfully accomplish the task.
First and foremost, you have to gather the materials needed in cleaning the sink. The cleaning items that you’ll need are as follows:
If you happen to own one, you should know how to properly care for it so you will be able to maximize its use. Maintaining sinks that are made of glass is not that difficult. In fact, you can preserve the alluring appeal and stylish look of your sink with just a few easy tricks.
Whether you are cleaning a glass bath sink or a glass kitchen sink, these steps will surely help you to successfully accomplish the task.
First and foremost, you have to gather the materials needed in cleaning the sink. The cleaning items that you’ll need are as follows:
- Vinegar and water
- Newspaper
- Non-abrasive cloth and Windex
- Create a vinegar mixture by mixing water and vinegar. Used the combined mixture to remove water spots or stains on the surface of the glass sink. Water spots are usually formed when water is left to dry on the sink’ surface.
- To avoid the formation of water spots, make it a habit to wipe the sink after each use.
- Apart from the vinegar mixture, you may also spray Windex on the surface of the sink and then wipe it with a newspaper. Doing so will help your sink to look squeaky clean.
- When wiping the sink, make sure to use a non-abrasive cloth to avoid scratching or damaging its surface.
- To remove unsightly scratches, it is advised to hire a professional to do the repair. Although there are home repair kits that claim to effectively eliminate scratches on a glass sink, not all of them can live up to what they advertise.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Home Plumbing Resources
Continuing in this week's series on plumbing information, I found several quality articles that I thought would be worthy to share with all of my readers. Let's start with an article from a cool site called Home and Garden Wisdom. The article is entitled Hiring the RIght Plumber or Plumbing Company. As you might guess, the article gives consumer tips on what to look for and how to screen plumbers in your area. Some of the information you may have seen presented on this blog or others but it never hurts to get a refresher on important topics like this. It's a great read and its not too long so it shouldn't take too much of your time to check it out.
Another similar article I found was on a site called A - Z Home Centers. This site also gives lots of cool home improvement information just like you see here. The article on their site was called How to Research a Plumber. This has some great complimentary information that I think goes well with the information presented on Home and Garden Wisdom. You all can check it out and let me know what you think.
In addition to these resources, I'd like you to check out a post on Home Columns called Surviving a Plumbing Disaster. Now in the event that you do have a major issue with a sewer line, septic tank, or other waste water problem, you will want to have a clear game plan on how you are going to deal with the issue. As you have heard me say many times before an ounce of prevention/preparation can make all the difference in the world. As always, avoid panicking or acting in a hasty manner. Of course depending on the nature of your problem you may or may not have the luxury of time on your hands so don't exacerbate the situation by making a bad series of rash decisions at just the wrong time.
Now that we've discussed some potentially costly items, lets look at things that can be handled independently by most anyone. Remember that taking the time to learn how to do a simple task on your own might not necessarily be the most exciting or fun usage of your time but it could be a huge benefit for you down the road in terms of saving you money. Now I'd like to share with you some information from a site called House to Home Guide. Now I am pretty fond of this site and you can see that I have listed them on the right as one of my recommended Home Improvement Resources. In one particular post I read called Basic Plumbing Tips: Drain Screens, they go over some very valuable information about the importance of using drain screens in all of your indoor drains. You would be absolutely shocked at how many people just remove the screens for one reason or another. Not having a screen is a sure fire way to ensure that your drain will become clogged sooner rather than later.
OK well that's all for today folks, I want to thank you again for reading my site and I look forward to interacting with all of you in the comments.
Another similar article I found was on a site called A - Z Home Centers. This site also gives lots of cool home improvement information just like you see here. The article on their site was called How to Research a Plumber. This has some great complimentary information that I think goes well with the information presented on Home and Garden Wisdom. You all can check it out and let me know what you think.
In addition to these resources, I'd like you to check out a post on Home Columns called Surviving a Plumbing Disaster. Now in the event that you do have a major issue with a sewer line, septic tank, or other waste water problem, you will want to have a clear game plan on how you are going to deal with the issue. As you have heard me say many times before an ounce of prevention/preparation can make all the difference in the world. As always, avoid panicking or acting in a hasty manner. Of course depending on the nature of your problem you may or may not have the luxury of time on your hands so don't exacerbate the situation by making a bad series of rash decisions at just the wrong time.
Now that we've discussed some potentially costly items, lets look at things that can be handled independently by most anyone. Remember that taking the time to learn how to do a simple task on your own might not necessarily be the most exciting or fun usage of your time but it could be a huge benefit for you down the road in terms of saving you money. Now I'd like to share with you some information from a site called House to Home Guide. Now I am pretty fond of this site and you can see that I have listed them on the right as one of my recommended Home Improvement Resources. In one particular post I read called Basic Plumbing Tips: Drain Screens, they go over some very valuable information about the importance of using drain screens in all of your indoor drains. You would be absolutely shocked at how many people just remove the screens for one reason or another. Not having a screen is a sure fire way to ensure that your drain will become clogged sooner rather than later.
OK well that's all for today folks, I want to thank you again for reading my site and I look forward to interacting with all of you in the comments.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Plumbing Advice from Atlanta Plumbers
For those of you who don't know, my buddy Carson runs a plumbing website called Atlanta Plumbers. This site provides some really useful information for anyone out there who is need of locating a reputable plumbing company in the Atlanta, GA area. I was talking to Carson about what he plans on doing with the site and he told me that he has some big plans including providing a potential plumbing marketplace where consumers could negotiate directly with licensed plumbers. He is the ambitious type so it will be nice to see what comes of it. If you haven't checked out any of his sites before I would suggest that you take a look at it and let me know what you all think. He is pretty much the best plumber I know and anytime I have a problem I call him. He can usually walk me through how to fix the issue right over the phone and if he can't he's always willing to help in any way he can.
OK so enough about Carson, let me give you all some bit of useful information for taking the time to read today's post. You probably saw the title and saw plumbing advice and may now be thinking where the heck is my plumbing advice? Well patience, patience young grasshopper, here it comes. If you are new to cold weather climates you may be unaware of the fact that pipes can freeze and burst causing major water damage on cold winter nights. To prevent this from happening there are a variety of things that can be done. One of which is to leave your faucets dripping when you know the temperature is going to drop below freezing that evening or will be freezing throughout the day. Even the smallest trickle of water from a faucet can keep water flowing through all of your plumbing pipes and this will prevent those pipes from freezing, bursting, and causing you a major headache.
OK so enough about Carson, let me give you all some bit of useful information for taking the time to read today's post. You probably saw the title and saw plumbing advice and may now be thinking where the heck is my plumbing advice? Well patience, patience young grasshopper, here it comes. If you are new to cold weather climates you may be unaware of the fact that pipes can freeze and burst causing major water damage on cold winter nights. To prevent this from happening there are a variety of things that can be done. One of which is to leave your faucets dripping when you know the temperature is going to drop below freezing that evening or will be freezing throughout the day. Even the smallest trickle of water from a faucet can keep water flowing through all of your plumbing pipes and this will prevent those pipes from freezing, bursting, and causing you a major headache.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Kitchen Items Could Give Your Sewage Grinder Pump Troubles
Many people whose homes happen to be below the level of the local sewer lines will require a sewage grinder pump to transfer their sewage water into the municipal sewer lines. This is very common, and many of these pumps will work effortlessly for many years. However, there are times when these sewage pumps will start to show signs of trouble and cause backups of sewage water. One of the biggest offenders in causing these problems are generally related to kitchen scraps.
Many people who have garbage disposals in their kitchens will send nearly anything they can fit down the drain through these garbage disposals. They reason that if it will go through garbage disposal then it is okay for the rest of the sewer line. This could not be further from the truth. Many of the items sent through these disposals will end up in the water basin of the sewage grinder pump and cause problems down the road.
Items which should not be sent down your garbage disposal include seafood shells, coffee beans, and animal bones. These items can damage the garbage disposal and accumulate in the sewage basin. Also, never send dangerous chemicals down your drain such as paint thinners and antifreeze. Again, these will be held in the sewage basin until they are pumped out, but they can also cause problems at waste water treatment plants also.
One of the biggest offenders for causing problems to a sewage grinder pump is cooking grease. Never send any cooking oil or liquid grease which could harden later after cooling. Many people with traditional sewer lines will send hot grease down the drain and then run hot water for several minutes to flush it from their system. These people have the mindset that once it reaches the street it is not their problem. However, for homes with sewage grinder pumps this grease will accumulate in the basin where it can congeal. This can cause a messy problem later on.
Many people who have garbage disposals in their kitchens will send nearly anything they can fit down the drain through these garbage disposals. They reason that if it will go through garbage disposal then it is okay for the rest of the sewer line. This could not be further from the truth. Many of the items sent through these disposals will end up in the water basin of the sewage grinder pump and cause problems down the road.
Items which should not be sent down your garbage disposal include seafood shells, coffee beans, and animal bones. These items can damage the garbage disposal and accumulate in the sewage basin. Also, never send dangerous chemicals down your drain such as paint thinners and antifreeze. Again, these will be held in the sewage basin until they are pumped out, but they can also cause problems at waste water treatment plants also.
One of the biggest offenders for causing problems to a sewage grinder pump is cooking grease. Never send any cooking oil or liquid grease which could harden later after cooling. Many people with traditional sewer lines will send hot grease down the drain and then run hot water for several minutes to flush it from their system. These people have the mindset that once it reaches the street it is not their problem. However, for homes with sewage grinder pumps this grease will accumulate in the basin where it can congeal. This can cause a messy problem later on.
Finding a Submersible Sewage Pump Online
Whether you are a homeowner in search of a submersible sewage pump for your house or you are a manager for a municipal sewage treatment plant searching for a commercial grade sewage pump, there are a variety of choices to find the correct pump for your situation online. More and more people are skipping the traditional trip to a plumbing supply store or local home improvement store in order to search for items they need online. Searching online can often turn up several relevant results and allow easy price comparison before making your purchase. In order to do a correct price comparison there are a few sites you should visit before making your choice.
For individuals searching for commercial great submersible sewage pumps there may not be as many alternatives as there are for homeowners. However, there are many industrial supply manufacturers to be found online. Many of these manufacturers can be contacted directly to get pricing for a new sewage pump. However, many of these manufacturers will only sell through distributors which may carry several different brands. Check many of these different distributors and contact many manufacturers to get the best price.
For homeowners, searching for a new submersible sewage pump can be quite easy. Many of the big home improvement websites will carry a select few pumps. Many of the prices on these pumps can be great even if the selection is quite small. Other sites to check out would be specialty plumbing sites. Many of these types of sites will carry many different brands, but their prices may be higher since they do not have the bargaining power of larger stores. Finally, specialty farm and home stores will often cater to rural buyers and carry a variety of items targeting this market such as sewage pumps. Many of these farm and home stores are large chains and will have prices which can be quite good.
For individuals searching for commercial great submersible sewage pumps there may not be as many alternatives as there are for homeowners. However, there are many industrial supply manufacturers to be found online. Many of these manufacturers can be contacted directly to get pricing for a new sewage pump. However, many of these manufacturers will only sell through distributors which may carry several different brands. Check many of these different distributors and contact many manufacturers to get the best price.
For homeowners, searching for a new submersible sewage pump can be quite easy. Many of the big home improvement websites will carry a select few pumps. Many of the prices on these pumps can be great even if the selection is quite small. Other sites to check out would be specialty plumbing sites. Many of these types of sites will carry many different brands, but their prices may be higher since they do not have the bargaining power of larger stores. Finally, specialty farm and home stores will often cater to rural buyers and carry a variety of items targeting this market such as sewage pumps. Many of these farm and home stores are large chains and will have prices which can be quite good.
Getting a Sewage Pump Installed in Your New House
If you are building a new house you know how many decisions are involved on a daily basis. Colors of paint for walls and stain for the trim are relatively easy choices which will have little effect on the performance of your home in the future. However, there are many larger decisions to be made which require much more in-depth decision making. An item such as a sewage pump is one of these. If your house is being built at the bottom of a hill or is in any way lower than the main sewer lines or septic system then your home will require a sewage pump.
A sewage pump is installed in order to move sewage from an area of low elevation to an area of higher elevation. This sewage system consists of the basin which all drains in the home empty into. Once this basin reaches a certain level, a float will activate a pump which will remove the raw sewage and force it through the main sewer line into the septic system or a municipal sewer system.
If you are having your home built by a general contractor it is a good idea to be able to talk to the plumber they use yourself to be able to discuss what kind of pump they will be installing and what kind of warranties it carries. If you find out the brand in which they will be installing you can easily do some research online to see what kind of reliability this pump offers. If this pump seems to be inferior you may ask them to install a different model.
If you are handling the subcontractors yourself you will want to do plenty of research to find a good plumber. Referrals are the best way to locate a reliable plumber who does quality work. Start by asking other homeowners in the area who has installed their sewage pumps and what kind of work was performed. The local area Chamber of Commerce is also a great way to obtain referrals to trustworthy plumbers. In addition to the chamber of commerce check out local review sites like Atlanta Plumbers that offer unbiased reviews of local companies. Taking the time to do a little research can make a big difference in the long run.
There is little maintenance to be performed on sewage pumps once they are installed. However, much more care must be taken to keep these sewage pumps working properly than a traditional gravity feed sewer system. The only items which should be flushed down a toilet are urine, feces, and toilet paper. Anything else could cause the sewage pump to jam and raw sewage to back up. Also, avoid sending too many table scraps down the drain in the kitchen. Large food items should be composted or thrown in the garbage, and smaller food scraps should be sent through a garbage disposal before being sent on to the sewage pump.
A sewage pump is installed in order to move sewage from an area of low elevation to an area of higher elevation. This sewage system consists of the basin which all drains in the home empty into. Once this basin reaches a certain level, a float will activate a pump which will remove the raw sewage and force it through the main sewer line into the septic system or a municipal sewer system.
If you are having your home built by a general contractor it is a good idea to be able to talk to the plumber they use yourself to be able to discuss what kind of pump they will be installing and what kind of warranties it carries. If you find out the brand in which they will be installing you can easily do some research online to see what kind of reliability this pump offers. If this pump seems to be inferior you may ask them to install a different model.
If you are handling the subcontractors yourself you will want to do plenty of research to find a good plumber. Referrals are the best way to locate a reliable plumber who does quality work. Start by asking other homeowners in the area who has installed their sewage pumps and what kind of work was performed. The local area Chamber of Commerce is also a great way to obtain referrals to trustworthy plumbers. In addition to the chamber of commerce check out local review sites like Atlanta Plumbers that offer unbiased reviews of local companies. Taking the time to do a little research can make a big difference in the long run.
There is little maintenance to be performed on sewage pumps once they are installed. However, much more care must be taken to keep these sewage pumps working properly than a traditional gravity feed sewer system. The only items which should be flushed down a toilet are urine, feces, and toilet paper. Anything else could cause the sewage pump to jam and raw sewage to back up. Also, avoid sending too many table scraps down the drain in the kitchen. Large food items should be composted or thrown in the garbage, and smaller food scraps should be sent through a garbage disposal before being sent on to the sewage pump.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
How to Install Propane Tankless Water Heaters
Are you itching to replace your old water heater with a propane tankless water heater? Then you may have realized how much savings you can generate by opting for propane tankless water heaters. Compared to traditional water heaters, they can save up to 30% in energy costs since hot water is not stored in the water tank for a long time. In a tankless propane heater, hot water goes out of the faucet whenever you need it. You will also not have to worry about setting the water temperature since most of them come with a temperature control function.
In installing a tankless propane water heater, fix the heater first. Using a mounting template, find the anchor holes to put in the mounting hardware. Since the heater can be very heavy, screws should be installed into the studs instead of just using plywood.
Next, put the pipe to the gas supply. Check on the installation guide to determine the right pipe size for the gas supply. Turn off the gas and place the pipe from the heater to the gas supply. Put in a drip pipe to trap rust, and dust in the heater. Make sure there are no leaks in the joints by using water and soap. After this, eliminate compressed air from the pipe before linking it to the heater.
It is now time to install the water line to the system. First, turn off water and place the pipe from the gas supply to the water heater inlet. Place the pipe from the heater outlet into the erstwhile hot water pipe. Get rid of the water line and check if the inlet fiber has been installed before linking it to the heater. Remove the pipe after its first use to remove any debris from the filter.
The final step is installing electricity. Unplug first the water heater, and tap your external electrical circuit for the water heater. Install a receptacle at least 5 feet from the heater. Unplug the heater, place a 22 gauge wire in between the box and heater, and then run the wires to the terminals.
This is a simple guide on how to install propane tankless water heaters. Follow this guide and within minutes, you should be enjoying hot water without paying too much for your electricity consumption.
In installing a tankless propane water heater, fix the heater first. Using a mounting template, find the anchor holes to put in the mounting hardware. Since the heater can be very heavy, screws should be installed into the studs instead of just using plywood.
Next, put the pipe to the gas supply. Check on the installation guide to determine the right pipe size for the gas supply. Turn off the gas and place the pipe from the heater to the gas supply. Put in a drip pipe to trap rust, and dust in the heater. Make sure there are no leaks in the joints by using water and soap. After this, eliminate compressed air from the pipe before linking it to the heater.
It is now time to install the water line to the system. First, turn off water and place the pipe from the gas supply to the water heater inlet. Place the pipe from the heater outlet into the erstwhile hot water pipe. Get rid of the water line and check if the inlet fiber has been installed before linking it to the heater. Remove the pipe after its first use to remove any debris from the filter.
The final step is installing electricity. Unplug first the water heater, and tap your external electrical circuit for the water heater. Install a receptacle at least 5 feet from the heater. Unplug the heater, place a 22 gauge wire in between the box and heater, and then run the wires to the terminals.
This is a simple guide on how to install propane tankless water heaters. Follow this guide and within minutes, you should be enjoying hot water without paying too much for your electricity consumption.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Create Unique Bathroom Designs by Incorporating Bamboo Vessel Faucets
If you are hoping to achieve a unique and striking bathroom statement, then you better consider investing in bamboo vessel faucets. These faucets offer more than just a design trend to complement the ever-popular vessel sink. According to Chinese beliefs, bamboo symbolizes longevity. Meanwhile in Indian culture, they see them as a symbol of friendship. These faucets are not only admired for their distinct structure and construction but also for their symbolism. They are commonly integrated in Asian-inspired and nature-themed bathrooms. Due to their remarkable style and unique characteristics, they are regarded as one of the innovative faucet designs that are currently circulating in the market.
Like other types of bathroom faucets, bamboo vessel faucets are sold in myriads of forms, types, styles, configuration, and sizes. Some of the viable options that you should look into include the following:
Oil-rubbed bronze bamboo faucets – This type is applicable for those looking for bathroom faucets carrying a traditional and classic appeal. A bamboo faucet with an oil-rubbed bronze finish will not only boost the room’s visual feature but will also help to create a tranquil and peaceful environment. Moreover, their beauty and performance can surely be appreciated for years.
Brushed Nickel bamboo faucets – These nature-inspired bathroom faucets are absolutely functional additions to any bathroom space. Their durable brass construction will assure you of long years of quality service. They often come with a single-hole configuration, and a single handle control. The greatest thing about them is that they require minimal maintenance as compared to other faucet variants. And with their magnificent matte finish, leaving signs of stains, fingerprints, and smudges can be significantly reduced.
Apart from the two types of bamboo vessel faucets mentioned above, there are still plenty of other options available. To find them, you have to stringently scour different buying avenues in order to spot the right type of bamboo vessel faucet that will utterly match your taste, specifications, and budget!
Like other types of bathroom faucets, bamboo vessel faucets are sold in myriads of forms, types, styles, configuration, and sizes. Some of the viable options that you should look into include the following:
Oil-rubbed bronze bamboo faucets – This type is applicable for those looking for bathroom faucets carrying a traditional and classic appeal. A bamboo faucet with an oil-rubbed bronze finish will not only boost the room’s visual feature but will also help to create a tranquil and peaceful environment. Moreover, their beauty and performance can surely be appreciated for years.
Brushed Nickel bamboo faucets – These nature-inspired bathroom faucets are absolutely functional additions to any bathroom space. Their durable brass construction will assure you of long years of quality service. They often come with a single-hole configuration, and a single handle control. The greatest thing about them is that they require minimal maintenance as compared to other faucet variants. And with their magnificent matte finish, leaving signs of stains, fingerprints, and smudges can be significantly reduced.
Apart from the two types of bamboo vessel faucets mentioned above, there are still plenty of other options available. To find them, you have to stringently scour different buying avenues in order to spot the right type of bamboo vessel faucet that will utterly match your taste, specifications, and budget!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
3 Steps To Make Your Home More Valuable
Homeowners are always on the lookout for something that will increase the value of their home and make it more marketable down the road. This may be because you plan on selling the home in the very near future, or you want to be on the safe side and keep your home updated and in selling condition at a moments notice. If this is the case, there are three easy steps that you can take to increase the value of your home and make it more enjoyable. Investing in these home improvements can pay off significantly in the long run.
Many home buyers today are looking for an over-the-top master bath. To achieve this look you must pay close attention to what is very popular. At the current time is very popular to install vessel sinks and large tile floors which match tiled shower enclosures. To really complete this look you should also consider installing a frameless bypass shower door. These all glass shower doors will allow the viewer a glimpse into the shower which will make the entire bathroom look bigger and tie the tiles together.
Today’s picky home buyers are also looking for a nice roomy kitchen. To help increase the value of your kitchen you must make sure that all the kitchen hardware matches. Pantry door handles should match the cabinet knobs and any other fixtures in the kitchen. This attention to detail will tie the entire kitchen together and will be more pleasing to the eyes. Also make sure all the appliances are the same color. Do not install a stainless steel stove next to a white refrigerator. This can make for some very odd looks.
Many home buyers today are looking for an over-the-top master bath. To achieve this look you must pay close attention to what is very popular. At the current time is very popular to install vessel sinks and large tile floors which match tiled shower enclosures. To really complete this look you should also consider installing a frameless bypass shower door. These all glass shower doors will allow the viewer a glimpse into the shower which will make the entire bathroom look bigger and tie the tiles together.
Today’s picky home buyers are also looking for a nice roomy kitchen. To help increase the value of your kitchen you must make sure that all the kitchen hardware matches. Pantry door handles should match the cabinet knobs and any other fixtures in the kitchen. This attention to detail will tie the entire kitchen together and will be more pleasing to the eyes. Also make sure all the appliances are the same color. Do not install a stainless steel stove next to a white refrigerator. This can make for some very odd looks.
Another great way to add value to your home is to tidy up the garage. Investing in garage organizers are a terrific option for the frugal home-owner. These organizers are very affordable and can take a garage from looking like a cluttered disaster to a huge asset of the home. When home buyers come into a well organized space it allows them to envision all of the possibilities that that space could offer them. This is obviously great for the seller.
Finally, the entryway of a home is often overlooked. This is always the first impression on a visitor when they enter your home. Many people will have no transition. Living room carpet often goes straight to the door. You should at least cut a 4x4 section in front of the door and tile it to create a break in the flooring. A tiled entryway will also be much easier to keep clean. If you have a hard surface that looks dated consider investing in a home floor buffer, this can make your flooring sparkle like new. The front of entry doors often receives the most abuse in the house. By maintaining this section of flooring you can keep your home looking great.
Finally, the entryway of a home is often overlooked. This is always the first impression on a visitor when they enter your home. Many people will have no transition. Living room carpet often goes straight to the door. You should at least cut a 4x4 section in front of the door and tile it to create a break in the flooring. A tiled entryway will also be much easier to keep clean. If you have a hard surface that looks dated consider investing in a home floor buffer, this can make your flooring sparkle like new. The front of entry doors often receives the most abuse in the house. By maintaining this section of flooring you can keep your home looking great.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Remodel Your Bathroom To Increase Your Home Value
If you are currently trying to sell your home, or you plan on reselling your home in the next couple of years, there are a few things you can do around the house to increase the value. While many buyers will be satisfied with a standard home warranty, others prefer to walk in to an oasis that they can fall in love with. Many rooms of the home are very expensive to remodel; however, one room can be remodeled for a very reasonable price and can make a huge difference on the marketability and the value of your home. This room is the master bathroom.
People shopping for a new home today are positioned to be very picky. One thing that appeals to many of these prospective homeowners is a nice master bath. One thing that can set your bath apart from other homes on the market is installing a frameless glass shower door. These frameless shower doors add a sleek modern feel to the bathroom and are quite elegant.
Many master baths are weighted down by old boring vanities. It can be very easy to change out your old vanity with a brand-new one. Perhaps the base of your vanity is still in great shape. In this case you may be able to pull off the old countertop and sink and replace it with something more modern and appealing. Vessel sinks are very popular these days and can provide a great new look for the bathroom.
Finally, if your bathroom floor still contains vinyl flooring it is time to get rid of it. People shopping from home today expect to see title not only on the floor but also in the shower enclosure. A nice neutral tan color is always a great choice. The color can be broken up a little by installing some accent tiles every now and then. Combine that with some decorative wall quotes and you are well on your way to creating a bathroom that will wow any buyer.
You can completely transform the look of your bathroom by instituting these few changes. Simply changing the look of your master bath could be the difference between selling your house or having it sit on the market.
People shopping for a new home today are positioned to be very picky. One thing that appeals to many of these prospective homeowners is a nice master bath. One thing that can set your bath apart from other homes on the market is installing a frameless glass shower door. These frameless shower doors add a sleek modern feel to the bathroom and are quite elegant.
Many master baths are weighted down by old boring vanities. It can be very easy to change out your old vanity with a brand-new one. Perhaps the base of your vanity is still in great shape. In this case you may be able to pull off the old countertop and sink and replace it with something more modern and appealing. Vessel sinks are very popular these days and can provide a great new look for the bathroom.
Finally, if your bathroom floor still contains vinyl flooring it is time to get rid of it. People shopping from home today expect to see title not only on the floor but also in the shower enclosure. A nice neutral tan color is always a great choice. The color can be broken up a little by installing some accent tiles every now and then. Combine that with some decorative wall quotes and you are well on your way to creating a bathroom that will wow any buyer.
You can completely transform the look of your bathroom by instituting these few changes. Simply changing the look of your master bath could be the difference between selling your house or having it sit on the market.
Monday, April 5, 2010
A General Guide for Buying Vessel Sinks
When purchasing vessel sinks, you have to consider some important parameters to ascertain that you'll end up with the best choice. Remember that these sinks are sold in a cornucopia of styles, designs, materials, sizes, and colors. Hence, you really have to stringently sift through the available choices. To help you do that, here are some useful tips that you should follow:
Take note of your bathroom requirements: The size and style of bathrooms vary greatly from one home to the other. Therefore, it is critical that you know the exact specifications of your bathroom space. Unlike traditional sinks, the vessel type requires a different counter height. The height of the bathroom counter will immensely depend on the way the sink should be installed. For instance, if you plan to purchase a counter-top variety, the height of the counter needs to be lowered. As a rule of thumb, the height of the sink's bowl will dictate how much lower you have to go.
Determine what type of vessel sink you require: Keep in mind that these types of bathroom sinks are made from a wide range of materials. Depending on your personal preference and existing bathroom configuration, you can choose from porcelain, ceramic, glass, wood or copper sinks. Among these types, the wood sinks are fairly new innovations. Wood has just been recently used as a primary material in making bathroom fixtures. Their striking and natural appeal is what makes them stand out from other sink varieties.
Look into the overall bathroom design as well as its surrounding décor: The great thing about vessel sinks is that you do not have to actually match them with the bathroom theme. As long as they coordinate well with the rest of the bathroom fixture and décor, that is enough. Their ability to blend perfectly with all types of bathroom settings is one of their most attractive features.
Make a statement by choosing sinks with distinct shapes: Choose functional, innovative, unique, and irregularly-shaped sinks to boost the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom space. Since they are not confined to fitting neatly on sink-sized holes, they can offer more interesting details.
Never forget to consider your budget: This is perhaps the most important consideration that you should take into account. Like with other purchases, you have to figure out how much you are willing to spend for the vessel sink. Their price range varies widely depending on the design, size, and materials used.
Make sure to take note of the aforementioned tips to acquire the vessel sink that utterly fits your budget and bathroom requirements!
Take note of your bathroom requirements: The size and style of bathrooms vary greatly from one home to the other. Therefore, it is critical that you know the exact specifications of your bathroom space. Unlike traditional sinks, the vessel type requires a different counter height. The height of the bathroom counter will immensely depend on the way the sink should be installed. For instance, if you plan to purchase a counter-top variety, the height of the counter needs to be lowered. As a rule of thumb, the height of the sink's bowl will dictate how much lower you have to go.
Determine what type of vessel sink you require: Keep in mind that these types of bathroom sinks are made from a wide range of materials. Depending on your personal preference and existing bathroom configuration, you can choose from porcelain, ceramic, glass, wood or copper sinks. Among these types, the wood sinks are fairly new innovations. Wood has just been recently used as a primary material in making bathroom fixtures. Their striking and natural appeal is what makes them stand out from other sink varieties.
Look into the overall bathroom design as well as its surrounding décor: The great thing about vessel sinks is that you do not have to actually match them with the bathroom theme. As long as they coordinate well with the rest of the bathroom fixture and décor, that is enough. Their ability to blend perfectly with all types of bathroom settings is one of their most attractive features.
Make a statement by choosing sinks with distinct shapes: Choose functional, innovative, unique, and irregularly-shaped sinks to boost the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom space. Since they are not confined to fitting neatly on sink-sized holes, they can offer more interesting details.
Never forget to consider your budget: This is perhaps the most important consideration that you should take into account. Like with other purchases, you have to figure out how much you are willing to spend for the vessel sink. Their price range varies widely depending on the design, size, and materials used.
Make sure to take note of the aforementioned tips to acquire the vessel sink that utterly fits your budget and bathroom requirements!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Best Place to Find Cheap Carpet
Nearly everyone at some point in their life will have to buy carpet. If money is no object, then it is simply a matter of going to one of the finer retail interior design stores in town and picking out a quality carpet. However, many people need to watch every dollar they spend. For these people is a delicate balancing act to find quality carpet at the cheapest price possible. However, there are a few places where you can find some very good quality carpet at discount prices.
One of the first places to shop when looking for new carpet would be the big box retailers. Stores like the Home Depot and Lowe’s have become some of the largest sellers of carpet in the country. Most of these stores will carry a very large selection and will have discounted installation available also. If there’s not a Lowe’s or Home Depot in your area, these stores will often deliver to surrounding areas for very reasonable prices. You could always have the carpet delivered and find someone local to install it.
Carpet warehouses have been popular for years because of their rock-bottom prices and large selections. Stores like Carpet Atlanta will save on overhead by operating no-frills stores with bare concrete floors and even carpet displayed in roles out on the floors. These stores are usually where you’ll find some of the best prices available for cheap carpeting.
Another great place to find cheap carpet which is often overlooked is on sites such as Craigslist. Often times, you’ll be able to find brand-new carpet at very reasonable prices on sites like these. There are a variety of reasons why someone would sell new carpet on sites such as craigslist. Sometimes people just change their mind and go with something different and are stuck with the other carpet. Also, some people will pull carpet that is in very good shape in favor of new carpet. Often times this carpet may look just as good as new. All it might take is a few minutes with a backpack vacuum and most people won't be able to tell the difference between them at all.
Take the time to do your research and it is sure to save you money in the long run.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Home Improvement Habitat
Howdy readers! I wanted to tell you that I found a new home improvement site that I would like for you all to go check out. The site is pretty new but from what they have up so far it looks like it could be a nice resource for even more home improvement information. I love our blogging community and have found that the people who start sites in this area tend to be terrific folks. Oh before I forget let me give you all a link to the new site: Home Improvement Habitat . Now I'd be interested in knowing what you all think of the info that is presented over there. So when you get a chance, drop me a line and let me know. Thanks!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Toilet Parts and Sewage Pumps
I recently had to help a friend with a major repair in his basement. Unfortunately his waste-water system(better known as sewage) had pretty much failed him completely. His basement smelled awful and it was clear that there was a buildup of fecal matter all over his bathroom and basement flooring. Now this repair was a candidate for that Discovery Channel show, "Dirty Jobs". Now when it was time to handle the problem I do what I always do when I am dealing with odors of this nature, I grabbed my mask and went to work. Now just so you know I use a professional style mask. This isn't one of those "germ-protecting" masks like you see in hospitals or medical facilities. This mask looks more like the gas-masks you would see in the military. It does a very effective job at keeping odors at bay. So with my mask, coveralls, and elbow and knee pads I went to work. We realized that the source of this problem was an unbelievable mistake made by the "so-called" plumber who installed the basement plumbing. This idiot connected a sump pump where a sewage pump should have been used. Now without getting into too many details, I will just say that a sump pump is designed for water or liquids, while a sewage pump has mechanisms to handle more solid waste products. The reason why the bathroom had clogged was this moron had installed the wrong type of pump. Now of course the toilet hadn't been able to flush properly because of this and we had to pull it up from the floor and replace several toilet parts, like the wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor. Now all in all the job took us about 4 hours and my friend was extremely grateful for my help. Its always nice to help a friend and I'm glad he can start to use his basement again. Just let this be a lesson to anyone else out there, make sure you check out anyone coming into your home to do any kind of plumbing work. There are people out there passing themselves off as plumbers that don't know the first thing about plumbing so be careful!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
HVAC Ductwork
Howdy readers! I found some great information that I just had to share when I was checking out one of my buddy's recent posts. The information is on ductwork. Now I recently did some renovations to my home's heating and air system so this topic was fresh in my mind. We installed a geo-thermal heat pump and let me tell you I am very excited about my home going green! We also upgraded the insulation and looked at various ways to improve the energy efficiency of our home as a whole. Thankfully our ductwork didn't have any leaks and was well insulated so it didn't require much updating. However, for many older homes faulty ductwork can be a big drain on the heating and cooling system. If you haven't had your air ducts cleaned recently then I would highly recommend doing so. Just be careful and make sure that you hire a reputable company, otherwise you could end up with a bigger problem. The last thing you want is some makeshift duct cleaning machine punching holes in your ductwork so that you require an even larger expense. If you want a great resource on how to care for your ducts check out this page: Proper Ductwork Maintenance . This is one of the best information sources on the topic that I have ever found. It is by one of the hubpages author's that I have mentioned before; she writes lots of good stuff. OK folks that's it for today, check out those links and learn some great information.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Bathroom Articles
I got some great feedback on the last post that I did where I share several bathroom resources with you folks so I wanted to take a moment and share some additional resources that I have come across and wanted to share those with you all as well. I was checking out one of my favorite sites which is hubpages.com and I came across a couple of bathroom related posts by one of the top authors on hubpages. The author's name is habee and she has some really great posts. Her posts span several different areas and it was interesting to read about both her knowledge of home and bathroom decor while also reading her souther cuisine recipes. Two of the bathroom hubs that I really like dealt with modern bathroom designs. The first was a hub about frameless shower doors. Now as many of you know I have been long considering a major bathroom remodel and after having read a few articles on this topic recently I am leaning more and more toward giving it a go. I just think that the beauty of these frameless shower doors is something to really behold. Now if you are going to go with the frameless shower door, I don't think you can just have an old fashioned boring porcelain sink. Nope, I think you need to step the budget up and go for a vessel sink. The variety and styles of vessel sinks that are available these days is really something to behold. You may or may not know that these sinks are really a throwback style to days in the past. Before the advent of modern plumbing people used to wash up in vessel style sinks that held water that would serve as a washing area. Its interesting how what was old becomes new and whats new becomes old. Anyway in addition to that cool hub on frameless shower doors, I also read a cool hub about small bath tubs. These bathtubs are really gaining in popularity as well and if I decide to add one one of these little guys might definitely be an option. Since most of the space in my bathroom is taken up by the oversized shower, it might be cool to add a little clawfoot bathtub to give it a nice modern/classic juxtaposition. Well I hope you enjoy those articles. Stay tuned for more cool bathroom resources.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Landscape Designs
Have you always wanted to landscape the front or backyard but just haven't found the time to get around to it? Well I have some good news for you. There is a great site that can help you shorten the timeframe to completing your yard and help you with some landscape design ideas. I would definitely recommend that you check out the site if you have a chance and hopefully when it warms up a little you can get to work!
Now there are a few things that you want to keep in mind anytime you start a landscaping project. Let's go over a few basics right now so that you can be well-aware of these things before you begin your research.
1. Set a Firm Budget. Many people know that when it comes to home improvements, costs can start to get out of control really quickly. If you set a firm budget then you will be sure to keep this in check.
2. Hire Professionals Now in an attempt to cut costs it may be enticing to go ahead and hire cheaper labor so that you can spend more money on materials. Don't do this! This almost always ends up costing you more in the long run. If you are going to make the investment, do it right and hire a landscaper or landscaping professional.
These are just a few tips, we will go into even more detail on landscape designs and tips for implementing your ideas soon.
Now there are a few things that you want to keep in mind anytime you start a landscaping project. Let's go over a few basics right now so that you can be well-aware of these things before you begin your research.
1. Set a Firm Budget. Many people know that when it comes to home improvements, costs can start to get out of control really quickly. If you set a firm budget then you will be sure to keep this in check.
2. Hire Professionals Now in an attempt to cut costs it may be enticing to go ahead and hire cheaper labor so that you can spend more money on materials. Don't do this! This almost always ends up costing you more in the long run. If you are going to make the investment, do it right and hire a landscaper or landscaping professional.
These are just a few tips, we will go into even more detail on landscape designs and tips for implementing your ideas soon.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Bathroom Resources
I would like to share some great bathroom resources that I've come across with you all today. These are articles and posts on various topics that I think are worth reading, particularly if you are thinking about doing any bathroom remodeling. Bathroom remodeling can really add value to your home but at the same time spending too much money on a remodel is foolish. You want to ideally take the time to analyze what your investment will yield in terms of return on investment(ROI) prior to deciding how much money you are willing to spend to update your bathroom.
The first article that I came across talks about frameless glass shower doors. This article talked about many of the various types of frameless shower doors. These are very popular in higher end remodels and I think that they will continue to gain in popularity amongst the masses as prices continue to come down. A frameless glass shower door adds both beauty and function to any bathroom.
Another article I saw that was about shower screens. Shower screens function much in the same way as shower doors but they typically have various advantages and disadvantages over doors. This article gives a nice breakdown on when to use shower screens and how to select the right shower screen for your particular situation. It is definitely worth reading and I would encourage you to check it out.
Now sticking with the theme of bathroom remodeling, you may also want to check out this post on toilet bowl parts. Now when you remodel a bathroom you may want to consider updating your toilet to a low-flow or a power flush toilet. These can be environmentally friendly and add value to your home. If you are on a budget and need to keep your existing toilet then check out that post to learn a little more about how your toilet works so that you can be confident fixing any problems if and when they come up.
The last bathroom post that I am going to recommend today is one on small bathtubs. This post gives lots of useful information for people who want a bathtub but are stuck with a home that has a small bathroom. Many bathrooms can't accommodate the standard 5 foot bathtub and this article gives lots of nice options for bathtubs that can fit in smaller spaces. Even if you don't want a small bathtub it might be interesting to learn about the various options that are out there for people who do need a smaller tub.
That's all for today, I hope you enjoy reading the articles.
The first article that I came across talks about frameless glass shower doors. This article talked about many of the various types of frameless shower doors. These are very popular in higher end remodels and I think that they will continue to gain in popularity amongst the masses as prices continue to come down. A frameless glass shower door adds both beauty and function to any bathroom.
Another article I saw that was about shower screens. Shower screens function much in the same way as shower doors but they typically have various advantages and disadvantages over doors. This article gives a nice breakdown on when to use shower screens and how to select the right shower screen for your particular situation. It is definitely worth reading and I would encourage you to check it out.
Now sticking with the theme of bathroom remodeling, you may also want to check out this post on toilet bowl parts. Now when you remodel a bathroom you may want to consider updating your toilet to a low-flow or a power flush toilet. These can be environmentally friendly and add value to your home. If you are on a budget and need to keep your existing toilet then check out that post to learn a little more about how your toilet works so that you can be confident fixing any problems if and when they come up.
The last bathroom post that I am going to recommend today is one on small bathtubs. This post gives lots of useful information for people who want a bathtub but are stuck with a home that has a small bathroom. Many bathrooms can't accommodate the standard 5 foot bathtub and this article gives lots of nice options for bathtubs that can fit in smaller spaces. Even if you don't want a small bathtub it might be interesting to learn about the various options that are out there for people who do need a smaller tub.
That's all for today, I hope you enjoy reading the articles.
Friday, February 5, 2010
How to Determine When Home Improvements Increase Property Value
One of the biggest questions for home-owners when they are considering whether or not to make certain home improvements is whether or not at the end of the day their efforts will have a positive net effect on their property value. This is a very logical concern so let's discuss a few ways to determine whether or not this will be the case for an improvement that you are considering. First of all the overall cost of the home improvement should be determined. If you are looking to remodel a kitchen then you will want to first determine what you are able and willing to spend. Once you have that number you can compare that to what the value of a new kitchen would add to your home. So if you are willing to spend $25,000 on a kitchen and see that a new kitchen could add $50,000 to your home's value then this is certainly a reasonable thing to pursue. However, if you want the latest and greatest of every new appliance and kitchen technology you might start out with a budget of $60,000 -$70,000. At this point you should be able to recognize that your budget is too high since the maximum increase in your property value will be $50,000.
Now the next question to ask is to make sure that whatever improvements you are doing will actually add the most value to your home. For this you may want to consult a local real estate professional who can tell you the buying tendencies of people in your neighborhood. You might be in love with a classic Victorian design but that might not work well in a climate where buyers want a modern look.
In summary, make sure to do a littl leg work up front to make sure that your improvements will indeed have a positive net effect on your home's property value.
Now the next question to ask is to make sure that whatever improvements you are doing will actually add the most value to your home. For this you may want to consult a local real estate professional who can tell you the buying tendencies of people in your neighborhood. You might be in love with a classic Victorian design but that might not work well in a climate where buyers want a modern look.
In summary, make sure to do a littl leg work up front to make sure that your improvements will indeed have a positive net effect on your home's property value.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
New Orleans Kitchen Cabinets
For those of you in the Louisiana area who are interested in kitchen cabinet refacing, I have found a great resource that I would like to share with you. This is a site called New Orleans Kitchen Cabinets. This site offers lots of information for home-owners in the Big Easy who may be interested in doing a little kitchen remodeling. Whether you are interested in cabinet refacing, corner cabinet installation, or a variety of other cabinet related renovations, this site has something for you. If you are not in the New Orleans area then their information probably won't be as helpful but you might still learn something. When you have some time check out the site and let me know what you all think by leaving a comment and sharing your opinion of the information that they present on the site. I'd love to hear some of your feedback.
I had a close friend who recently did some remodeling in their kitchen and they paid a pretty penny for all of the new cherry cabinetry that they installed. Since this is generally one of the biggest expenses in a typical kitchen renovation it makes sense to investigate it thoroughly. Sites like New Orleans Kitchen Cabinets make this process a lot easier. Whenever you consider any major remodel you should stop and ask yourself a few questions. One, will the renovation increase the value of my home enough to pay for the costs? This is a big one. If you spend $50,000 re-doing your kitchen but it only increases your property value by $20,000 then you have just sunk $30,000. Now if you plan to live in this house for the rest of your life then you might be willing to take the hit but for most people this isn't very smart. The average person only lives in a home for 5-7 years so this could be disastrous. This is even more important if you plan to finance the renovation with a second mortgage or some other type of loan. The last thing you want to do is have to pay back big money out of your pocket down the road.
Another question that you should ask yourself is whether or not you can really afford this renovation. The first thing people do when they get a lump sum of money is to spend it on the things that "they've always wanted but couldn't afford." This isn't always very smart. Don't risk your future for a new set of pine or cherry kitchen cabinets. OK so that is enough for now but if you get a chance check out the site and let me know what you all think.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Save Money
Have you ever considered changing out those old incandescent light bulbs in your home? If you haven't let me give you a few reasons why doing so is a good idea.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Save Money
One package of light bulbs can save you several hundred dollars over the life of the bulb. This savings is largely due to the fact that compact fluorescents use less energy than traditional bulbs and therefore reduce monthly utility bills. In addition to the advantage in energy efficiency, compact fluorescents also last much longer than traditional bulbs. Very often these bulbs may last several years which means you would have bought several incandescent lights during that time period.
Overall you can see that there are several benefits to compact fluorescent bulbs that make them a wise choice when it comes to making home improvements.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Solar Fountains
In today's post I would like to continue the solar information series and talk a little bit about solar fountains. For those of you who may be unfamiliar with what a solar fountain is, allow me to give you a brief overview. A solar fountain is essentially a water fountain that is solar powered. These water fountains can increase the aesthetic appeal of any yard or garden. Not only are water fountains beautiful but they can often attract birds to bathe and create a generally tranquil environment. The sounds of water flowing and birds chirping is enough to make anyone relax. So what are some of the benefits of using a solar fountain? Well for one a solar fountain, surprisingly enough, is solar powered! I know I know you would never have guessed. Well aside from the many benefits of solar energy in general pumps that run on solar energy tend to have several other distinct advantages over pumps that require battery or wall power. For one they tend to last longer and require much less maintenance. This is because the advanced technology used in these pumps has eliminated the need for constant maintenance. So if you are looking for a way to beautify your landscape, then consider adding a beautiful solar fountain. I'm sure you will love it.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Solar Lighting
Solar powered lighting has gained in popularity with homeowners all over the country. Solar powered lights enhance a landscape tremendously and provide beautiful soft light. Since they are fully powered by the sun these lights can be placed virtually anywhere that receives a decent amount of sun exposure. This makes them one of the most versatile outdoor lighting options available. When this technology first began to make its way into stores and subsequently into the yards of many consumers, they were not very well received by all. Many home-owners complained that the lights were too dim or that they would only work sporadically. This negative feedback caused many consumers to hold off on investing in solar lighting for their front or back yards. Over time, however, advances in technology have started to change consumer sentiment. Instead of avoiding solar lights consumers have started to embrace them as viable outdoor lighting options. The improvements made in solar technology coupled with the fact that costs have continued to come down have made solar lights a very attractive way for home-owners to spruce up the appearance of their front and back yards. Solar lighting has also become very popular amongst landscapers who have been quick to recommend its usage to many customers. Solar lights usually have several solar cells which act as receptors for light energy. Each solar cell can extract a small amount of energy from the millions of photons that rain down from the sun. This small amount of energy can be used to power an energy efficient light bulb for several hours or even days. Many solar lights come with battery backups that store energy produced in the daytime so that it can be used to power the lights once the sun goes down. This technology is not only environmentally friendly but enhances the look of any yard.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Spray Foam Insulation
Builders in many parts of the country have begun to use spray foam insulation as an alternative to many other types of insulation. Why is this the case? Well there are several benefits that spray foam insulation offers over more traditional methods of insulating a home. For one, this type of insulation is significantly better than more traditional methods. Not only is the r-factor generally higher but it allows for a less centralized application. Being that it is sprayed, it has the opportunity to cover more area since it can fall into smaller crevices that traditional insulation can not seal. Builders have begun investing heavily in spray foam insulation equipment to improve the overall energy efficiency of their homes. This not only makes the home more marketable to potential buyers but allows the building contractor to market himself as a "green builder". So whether you are a seasoned contractor or a weekend warrior spray foam insulation could be a great way to go.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Plumber Reviews
Recently I was talking to a friend of mine named Carson who runs a website that does reviews of Alpharetta plumbing companies, when he gave me some information on how he reviews companies that I thought would be cool to share here in the blog. He primarily searches websites like Kudzu.com, MerchantCircle.com, insiderpages.com, angieslist.com and a few others. He basically takes his time to read at least 50 reviews(if available) on each company and then he tracks down the review writers to verify their experience. I was quite shocked and asked him how successful he is at getting responses from these reviewers. He said that he gets responses better than 50% of the time primarily because he only contacts people who actively use the various platforms where the reviews are posted. His whole goal is to cut through the crap that lots of companies now flood the internet with and make sure that when people read a review they can trust what they read. His reviews are really awesome and he is going to help out a lot of people. Not only does he review plumbers in Alpharetta, he also reviews plumbers in Marietta, and most of the entire metro Atlanta area. If you are looking for a plumber in Atlanta, you will definitely want to check out his site first. Now I've known Carson for quite some time and I asked him why he is doing what he is doing and he gave a rather curious answer. He said something to the effect of "screwing people gets old and he needs to do something to clear his conscience". I thought for a while and said well if that is the case then I will do my best to help you and I promised him that I would send him a little traffic by doing a write-up on his site on this blog. So make sure you check out his site and leave him a comment telling him to keep up the good work.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Winter Heating
With the recent cold front that has crippled the eastern United States many people have had to find creative ways to stay warm. While most homes have central air units, the cost to heat in times like these can cause consumers to look for other heating options. Many people have turned to space heaters as a way to save money. There are a variety of different types of space heaters that are available at most retail stores. These include, ceramic heater, oil filled radiators, and heat dishes among others. These offer homeowners the opportunity to heat a single room in the house while keeping the general thermostat at a lower temperature to keep costs down. Do these work? Yes they do. They can often reduce a winter heating bill dramatically. Check out this article if you are looking for other ways to reduce winter heating bills. Another important aspect of staying warm in the winter is making sure that your home central heating unit is operating efficiently. Many heating and air companies offer system checkups which can diagnose any problems before they cause full system failure. The last thing you want in times like these is to wake up freezing because your primary heating system failed. In Atlanta heating and air companies have seen a large increase in system failures due to the construction boom of the early and mid 2000's. Construction debris makes its way into heat pumps and exterior units which can be a ticking time bomb for a central air unit. Take the time to have your home's central air checked out to make sure your system is healthy.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Carpet and Area Rug Cleaning
Today we are going to discuss how home-owners can maximize the lifetime of their carpet and area rugs. Many people know that it is important to have their carpets and area rugs cleaned regularly but the best way to clean them is often a mystery. Many homeowners use over the counter home carpet shampoo but this is not the most effective way to clean many types of area rugs. Let's go over a few effective ways to clean those carpets. In a recent conversation with Lisa Anderson who specializes in area rug cleaning in San Diego, I found out that there are lots of natural products that perform exceptionally well. One such product was the Green Miracle Cleaner. This cleaning product is used in both commercial and residential carpet cleaning and has developed a reputation as a terrific cleaning product. The product is available online at several major distributors and is priced rather modestly when compared to other cleaning products in the market.
I also spoke with John Lewis who runs a full service Atlanta carpet cleaning company, who recommends cleaning carpets at least twice annually. The amount of bacteria and fungi that grow in typical carpet is staggering and most vacuum cleaners do a poor job of thoroughly cleaning the carpet. Area rugs in particular need even more frequent cleaning. This is because they generally have a different type of fiber which allows for dust and debris to collect more regularly. So for those home-owners with area rugs, John recommends these be cleaned at least 4 times a year. Most of the cleaning can be done with a standard carpet cleaner. According to Mr. Lewis, the cleaning agent is the most important ingredient in achieving the desired goal. He did mention that special care should be made for bright or solid colored area rugs. Red rugs in particular have a tendency to bleed and this can cause the dye to be inadvertently transferred to other rugs that are a different color. The last thing you want is to go to clean your beige living room rug after cleaning your red dining room rug and discover that your living room rug now has red accents. So be sure to examine the cleaning and care tab to clean effectively. In summary, make sure that when the seasons change you clean those area rugs(carefully) and once in the summer and once in the winter you should clean the entire carpet.
I also spoke with John Lewis who runs a full service Atlanta carpet cleaning company, who recommends cleaning carpets at least twice annually. The amount of bacteria and fungi that grow in typical carpet is staggering and most vacuum cleaners do a poor job of thoroughly cleaning the carpet. Area rugs in particular need even more frequent cleaning. This is because they generally have a different type of fiber which allows for dust and debris to collect more regularly. So for those home-owners with area rugs, John recommends these be cleaned at least 4 times a year. Most of the cleaning can be done with a standard carpet cleaner. According to Mr. Lewis, the cleaning agent is the most important ingredient in achieving the desired goal. He did mention that special care should be made for bright or solid colored area rugs. Red rugs in particular have a tendency to bleed and this can cause the dye to be inadvertently transferred to other rugs that are a different color. The last thing you want is to go to clean your beige living room rug after cleaning your red dining room rug and discover that your living room rug now has red accents. So be sure to examine the cleaning and care tab to clean effectively. In summary, make sure that when the seasons change you clean those area rugs(carefully) and once in the summer and once in the winter you should clean the entire carpet.
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