What Size Ladder Do You Need to Clean Gutters?

The gutter section of your house tends to get dirty, now and then. A dirty gutter can cause damage to your home. So keeping those dirty gutters clean is crucial. But sometimes reaching your home’s gutter can be a struggle. In such cases, a right-sized ladder can help you with that. 

You might want to know how exactly you find out what is the right sized ladder for your gutter?

Well, first you have to measure the height of your gutter, then decide the ladder size. Also, you should consider the type of ladder you are going to use for gutter cleaning.

However, here, we’ll discuss every aspect of gutter cleaning with a ladder in detail and show you exactly how you can do it.

What Is Gutter Cleaning, and Why Is it Important?

Gutter Cleaning refers to the process of clearing out tree leaves, dirt, and other debris from your home’s gutter place. It helps to prevent any clog on the gutter. So that the rainwater can flow smoothly without getting stuck in the gutter and causing water damage to your home.

It’s pretty essential to keep your gutter clean and clean. As you know the gutter system is there to create a panel from your roof to the ground. A dirty gutter panel can disturb the water flow and prevent the gutter system from working efficiently.

Now let's talk about a few benefits of gutter cleaning, this will help you to have a better understanding of its importance.

●     A clean gutter helps to redirect the rainwater away from your house.

●     Keep your windows and window sills dry by minimizing the moisture.

●     Protect your home’s interior and exterior ceilings from getting damaged.

●     Helps to keep your home’s roof construction intact for a long time.

●     It also prevents cracks, uneven flooring on your home’s foundation. 

Selecting the Right Sized Ladder For Gutter Cleaning

You know it by now, a right-sized ladder plays a crucial role in cleaning your home’s gutter. Few things you need to consider while getting a ladder that suited perfectly to your needs. Such as what kind of building you’re staying in, the distance of the gutter from the ground, etc. 

For example, the step ladder is great if you’re working on a single-storied building. The good thing about a step ladder is you can add an extension as per your requirement to reach the gutter. 

Remember, you can’t just use any ladder, the ladder must help you reach the gutter. A ladder that’s too big or too small can’t help you do that. That’s why you have to choose a  ladder for gutter cleaning that will fulfill your needs.  

In the following segment, we’ll talk about what exactly you need to find a suitable ladder for your gutter cleaning work.

Gutter Distance Measurement

Before you can select a ladder for your gutter for cleaning work, first you need to measure the distance from the gutter to the ground. A general one-storied build’s gutter has a length of 10.8 feet long from the ground. And the two-storied building's distance is about 18.7 feet long.

We recommend you should buy a ladder that has extension capability, like a double extended ladder. So that you can add extensions as per your needs. But for instance, a ladder that covers about 26.2 feet long should cover about two-storied buildings. 

Don’t worry if the ladder is too long; this extended ladder comes with folding capability. So that you can unfold as much as you require and keep it in a locked place, you can also take the proper measurement of your building to be sure of what length of ladder you require.

Ladder Standoff if Needed 

If your building’s gutter is too close to the roof, it may cause some trouble while cleaning with a regular ladder. Generally, the gutters are made out of plastic and can’t handle the full pressure of the ladder with you on it. So it’s a good idea to use a standoff with the ladder while cleaning up your gutter. 

A standoff is basically a horizontal stand that helps to clean the gutter without putting any pressure on your building gutter. It really comes in handy while cleaning the drain because you can’t always worry about breaking the gutter while cleaning it. 

Ladder Stabilizer

A ladder stabilizer is a support system that keeps the ladder in one place. It also helps you become independent while cleaning the gutter. Because you can’t always find someone to hold the ladder steady while you’re cleaning the gutter. Sometimes the extension ladder doesn’t have the stabilizer on board.

For such cases, you can buy a combined ladder that comes with a stabilizing bar; you add a stabilizer to the extension ladder in the get-go. A ladder stabilizer helps you put your ladder on any surface, whether it’s stone, wood, or mud. This action makes the gutter cleaning process much more manageable.

Using a Ladder to Clean the Gutter Safely

You need to be careful while cleaning up your home’s gutter place. Keeping your safety in mind, we’d suggest you use a ladder to do the cleaning. A ladder helps you stay in a balanced state while cleaning the waste from the gutter.  

Now let’s talk about some safety measures that you can take before you start cleaning your home’s gutter.

Before you start

A simple reminder before you start because you just can’t forget about your health. Who knows what kind of rubles are hidden in the gutter. So before you start the cleaning process, you can follow the following safety tips to avoid any harm to yourself.

Surrounding Awareness

First and foremost, you need to be aware of what surrounds the gutter place. For example, there could be power cables lying around the gutter, and the drain tends to get wet from time to time. So, it’s not a good idea to stick your hand on something without checking your surroundings. Check if there is an active power cable nearby, if so you need to shut down the power line and start your cleaning process.    

Usage Protective Gears

You can use a few protective gears to shield yourself from the harmful debris that lies in the gutter. Such as:

●     Hand Globes
You need a pair of good-quality hand globes. It will protect your hand from any kind of bacteria that lies in the gutter because of bugs, bird or animal litter, and stuff.

●      Eye Gear
While you’re cleaning out the rubles from your home’s gutter place, the debris tends to get into your eye. So, to protect your eyesight and avoid any damage, eye gear is really crucial.

●     Rubber Shoes

A pair of rubber shoes can help you keep a stable balance on it while climbing up the ladder to clean the gutter. It helps to improve your foot’s grip on the ladder, preventing any falling accident.

Keeping all that aside, let's talk about how to choose the right sized ladder for cleaning up the litter from your home’s gutter.

How to Use a Ladder (tips & Tricks)

Using a ladder to clean up the gutter from your home seems easy enough, right? We have gathered some tips and tricks that’ll make your cleaning process much more manageable. The tricks and tricks are as follows;

●     When you keep the ladder by the gutter, make sure you put it at the right angle. Otherwise, you might lose your balance and fall thus, causing severe injuries to yourself.

●     Before using the ladder, you should check the ladder's condition first. Like every object, a ladder can develop problems over-times. 

●     While climbing up the ladder, be careful and don’t step further than one step. This action can cause you to slip and fall to your doom.

Last words

Your safety should be your main concern while cleaning your household gutter. Selecting a top-quality ladder can provide you with proper safety. If you consider the mentioned safety procedures while using the ladder for cleaning your gutter, there is less chance of endangering yourself while cleaning.

Lastly, you must always consider using a ladder that matches the length of your gutter. I meant using a ladder that helps you reach your home’s gutter with ease. Then again, don’t forget that you should add a standoff and stabilizing extension with your ladder to get the best result to get the best possible result. In doing so, you can ensure the maximum amount of safety for yourself.

Guest Contributor: Bernita Fregoso

8 Important Things to Do Before Selling Your Home

Preparing to sell your house is a significant undertaking. It often indicates a significant life transition, and for the majority of individuals, it is something they do just a few times in their lives. Although significant life transitions might be intimidating, selling your property does not have to be. The secret to a stress-free selling experience is to be organized and prepared before listing your home. 

Should I use a realtor to sell my home? If you are considering selling your property on your own and pocketing the money you would have paid a real estate agent. Avoid the temptation. A for sale by owner process is virtually always a fiasco, requiring financial and time sacrifices. That is why one of the most critical tasks before selling your home is locating an excellent real estate agent.

1. Locate an Excellent Real Estate Agent

If you are considering selling your property on your own and pocketing the money you would have paid a real estate agent. Avoid the temptation. A for sale by owner process is virtually always a fiasco, requiring financial and time sacrifices. That is why one of the most critical tasks before selling your home is locating an excellent real estate agent. 

Hire a highly rated real estate agent that you can trust or the one recommended by your uncle's friend's co-worker's cousin. Conduct some research to choose a real estate agent knowledgeable about your particular market, and then interview to ensure the agent is a good match. 

Your real estate agent should be someone with whom you feel at ease and whom you trust to sell your home for the highest possible price. You will want someone who is knowledgeable and can give you the most returns on your investment and taxes. If you want to learn more information about property taxes, consider doing a quick google search on “1031 exchange explained” to help you better understand and make an informed decision that benefits you. 

2. Adjust the pricing Appropriately

It is crucial to price your house accurately. If you overprice your house, it will either not sell or will take far longer to sell than necessary. Buyers are savvy and readily recognize when a home is overvalued.

3. Deep Clean Your Home

First impressions are critical. Therefore, avoid making a negative impression on a possible buyer with unpleasant odors, unclean flooring, or dusty surfaces. Before marketing your property, please give it a thorough cleaning. It includes toilet cleaning, wiping down surfaces, mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, and scouring bathrooms. Consider hiring pros to keep your space in tip-top shape.

4. Welcome to Purchasers

Bring consumers' attention to your front entrance by making it prominent and approachable. Exterior flaws might give purchasers a negative first impression.

Before you strain yourself attempting to remove fingerprints from the walls, gather all the necessary documents to persuade prospective purchasers. It's critical to have the operating manuals for your appliances and HVAC system on hand, as well as notes regarding the paint colors you used on the walls and any related warranties. They'll demonstrate to the listing agent that you're in charge, even if you're not.

Pull out your previous utility bills while you're at it. You're probably still in denial about having to pay for the water that comes out of the faucet – and goes down the drain – but persevere. Seasonal totals may help your property seem more enticing than the residence across the county.

5. Consult an Expert Before Renovating

It is prudent to treat all proposals with seriousness. By the time purchasers make an offer, they have likely conducted extensive research, and each offer is worth examining. 

Consult the agent before renovating or upsizing. Renovations may take longer and cost more than you anticipate, and in some cases, it is just best to negotiate the selling price with the buyer and then leave any renovations or upsizing to them.

6. Decide How You Want Your Property to be Listed

Generally, there are two methods to sell. You may sell your house either via an agent or with the assistance of a home selling service. While most individuals understand how to deal with an agent, many are unaware that there are economical and straightforward for sale by owner alternatives accessible to homeowners that may save them thousands of dollars. The notion of selling your property is gaining popularity and is expected for many years to come. See this article on three of the most popular for sale by owner services for further information. Once you've considered all of your alternatives, you may select the one that's best for you.

7. Make Deficiencies Known

Ascertain that you reveal any latent and patent faults in your house to the realtor and prospective purchasers.

8. Do Not Overlook the Rear

Maintain an open and practical appearance in your garden. Plant or pot vibrant blooms and maintain a friendly and tidy landscape. Consistently clean up after your dogs to ensure that purchasers feel at ease when exploring the yard.

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

Useful Ideas On How To Design An Energy-efficient Bathroom

Saving energy is important for both conserving natural resources and saving money. When it comes to your home, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms to make as energy-efficient as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss some useful ideas on how you can redesign your bathroom to use less energy.

Plug Your Appliances Into Power Strips

One way to conserve energy and money is by plugging your appliances into power strips. When you're not using them, turn off the power strip. This will save you money on your electric bill and help reduce your carbon footprint.

The bathroom can be a major consumer of energy in the home. However, there are many ways that you can make it more efficient without making any major changes or sacrifices. Tankless water heaters and proper insulation are great ways to make your bathroom more energy-efficient. You can search online for a buying guide for energy-efficient appliances. This way, you can make your purchase decisions with the environment in mind.

Replace Your Old Light Bulbs

Lighting is a very important factor for any bathroom. And the easiest way to make your bathroom more energy-efficient is by replacing your old light bulbs with LED or CFL lights which consume less power and last much longer than incandescent lights. You can use them even in recessed lighting fixtures, as they are available in compact sizes.

If you are not sure which light bulbs to buy, consult with a lighting expert or your local hardware store. You can also find many energy-saving tips online. Just make sure that the new light bulbs you choose fit the fixtures in your bathroom. Remember, every little bit helps when it comes to being more environmentally friendly.

Install A Low-Flow Showerhead

Research has shown that showering accounts for a considerable portion of your home’s energy consumption. This is because it requires substantial amounts of water to function optimally and hence increased electricity bills. So how do you reduce your utility bill? Well, installing low-flow showerheads can significantly cut down on the amount of water used in each household without compromising on quality. A low-flow showerhead serves as an effective tool in ensuring that everyone conserves both clean water and energy at all times – especially when taking long showers! These types are designed with specially constructed nozzles that emit smaller droplets while still providing enough pressure so they feel just like regular ones before being installed onto the main pipe system where they will continue working their magic.

There are several different low-flow showerheads on the market, so do some research and find the best one for your needs! And if you’re handy with tools, installation is a breeze – usually taking no more than 15 minutes or so. Plus, it will save you money in the long run by reducing your water usage each month.

Use A Bathmat

Place a bathmat on the floor in front of your tub or shower to prevent slipping and reduce the amount of water that is tracked onto the floor. Choose a bathmat made from absorbent materials like cotton or bamboo to help soak up excess water.

When you're finished bathing, use a towel to pat yourself dry before stepping onto the bathmat. This will help keep the mat dry and clean, making it easier to clean when needed. Be sure to hang your towel up so it can air-dry between uses. A wet towel can breed bacteria and fungus, which can cause skin irritations.

Turn Off The Water When You're Not Using It

The water heater is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. But you can cut costs by simply turning off the hot water while you shampoo and lather up, thus reducing your hot-water use. To save even more money, consider installing a low-flow showerhead or faucet aerators (which reduce flow rates). These are easy to install on your own with just an adjustable wrench, but we do recommend that you consult with a plumber for proper installation if necessary. A professional will also be able to make sure these new installations comply with local building codes.

Use A Low-Flow Toilet

Low-flow toilets use less water per flush than traditional toilets, so they can help you save water and money. Toilets account for nearly 30% of a home’s indoor water use, so upgrading to a low-flow model can make a big difference.

If your bathroom needs an upgrade, consider installing a low-flow toilet. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush than traditional toilets, which can help you save water and money. Toilets account for nearly 30% of the average home’s indoor water use, so upgrading to a low-flow model can make a big difference.

There are many ways that you can make your bathroom more energy-efficient. By making a few simple changes, you can save money on your energy bills and help the environment at the same time. These are some of the best ways to make your bathroom more energy-efficient.

The Different Types Of Parcel Boxes And How To Choose

People constantly praise technology and various latest inventions, which is completely understandable, of course, however, most of us frequently forget how essential and useful parcel boxes are.

They are literally the foundation of the packaging industry and without them, practically no company or person would ever be able to send or receive anything. There are numerous types of parcel boxes and today we’ll talk a little bit more about it.

The Most Common Types Of Shipping Boxes

Anti-Theft Package Box

A majority of people nowadays turn to online shopping, whether it’s because they do not have enough free time on their hands to pick it up, or it’s because the place they are ordering from is too far. 

And this is a great option because, with just one click, you can get exactly what you want. Now, what are you going to do if someone has sent you a package, yet you are not at home because there's a chance somebody may steal your package?

If you want to prevent that, then you should opt for an anti-theft package delivery box. There are so many different options when it comes to this, however, if you want to get the best one, then just find a list of the best reviewed anti theft package boxes to obtain the one that’s most secure. After that, you will no longer worry about losing your items.

Corrugated & Cardboard Boxes

Corrugated are made out of three sheets of sturdy paperboard, which is not the case with cardboard boxes. Namely, these are perfect for moving or shipping because they are very resilient and can withstand different things during transport.

Another great thing about them is the fact that they can also be recycled and reused thanks to this thick material. When it comes to cardboard boxes, they are made out of thick paper and are not often utilized for shipping. They are mostly used for greeting cards and food packaging.

What Else Do We Have?

Rigid Boxes

These are also known as set-up boxes and are actually very sturdy and thick and do not fold like some other types of boxes. Frequently, they are employed for more expensive items where it’s crucial that no part is damaged during transport.

Furthermore, rigid boxes are also utilized when the item within is too heavy and requires additional support. The best example of a rigid box is for sure the one used to place an iPhone. 

Wooden Boxes

A lot of business owners and companies employ wooden boxes when they are having bigger shipments, like freights because these things always require huge storage space. The good thing about these types of boxes is the fact that they are very robust and resilient and can frequently be found in bigger sizes which is not the case with other types. 

And just like the corrugated boxes that were previously mentioned, these can also be reused and recycled.

The world of packaging can sometimes be very confusing since it offers so many different types of boxes, which is why it can be hard to determine when to use what. That's why we talked about them today, so you can easily figure out which one is currently most suitable for you.

HOW TO GET MOLD OUT OF EVERY CRACK AND CREVICE IN YOUR HOME

Clean and tidy homes are in your wheel house, so you're a pro. The cleaning tasks you cross off your weekly checklist are a source of pride for you. In the end, what do you do when you find black mold and mildew crawling into your shower or around your kitchen sink after all that hard work?

You can get answers to all your questions about how to remove mold in your home from this blog. To learn more about what kills mold, which natural products you can use to prevent it with the help of the best remove mold services , and what causes it to grow in the first place, read on!

 What exactly is mold?

Many types of molds grow in damp and oxygen-filled environments such as your damp kitchen sponge or leaky window sill, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. A mold infestation can quickly spread indoors if it's not dealt with quickly and you should find Mold Removal San Diego services in such cases. Molds belong to the fungi kingdom.

Mold and mildew are things you don't want to deal with.

The two, however, differ in a few aspects. The two types of fungi, mold and mildew, can grow on surfaces of all kinds, however, mildew is a plant disease. They differ mainly in terms of colours and textures. Mold growing inside the house is usually black or green, and sticky and thick. Mold grows inside the house as a grey or white powder.

 Here's how you can get rid of mold mites

 Getting rid of the mold that serves as their food source and attracts them to your home is the most effective method for killing mold mites. You will find Mold Removal San Diego services and tips for how to prevent mold from developing as well as how to clean up patches of mold.

Vinegar can be used to get rid of mold mites

Household cleaners like this kill the majority of mold species. An equal amount of white vinegar and water can be sprayed on a small patch of mold to remove it. Add a few drops of dish soap if you want a stronger cleaner.

Testing the mold remover on an unseen spot should be done first. Spray the entire section of mold if it does not damage it. Then wash the whole surface with a clean cloth and scrub the mold and surrounding areas.

 

Mold mites can be fought with lemon

In addition to destroying mold, lemon juice also leaves a pleasant odour behind. Three to five lemons should be squeezed into a glass, and then the liquid should be poured directly onto the mold. Once the juice has sat for five minutes, wipe off the surface with a damp towel. Applying lemon juice again or scrubbing more vigorously may be necessary for mold that is difficult to remove.

Baking soda helps kill mold mites and black mold

Mold mites, on the other hand, can cause rashes and illnesses caused by toxic black mold. It is known that baking soda is effective in killing this nasty mold and also absorbs moisture that encourages it to thrive. Here is a basic technique for preventing black mold.

Fill a spray bottle with water and add a quarter teaspoon of baking soda. Spray the moldy area after shaking the ingredients. Use a scrub brush to remove the mold. The surface should be rinsed with water, sprayed with cleaner, and allowed to dry. You can make a paste with more baking soda if you are dealing with a patch of black mold.

To make the paste, combine all the ingredients. Cover the mold with the paste. Wipe with a damp cloth once the paste has dried.

Mold mite infestations are combated with Tea Tree Oil

Although it looks like little, this essential oil is an effective fungicide that eliminates mold and prevents its growth. Tea tree oil can irritate the skin, so wear gloves when using it. In a spray bottle, combine the ingredients and shake well. Mix the ingredients in the bottle and spray them on the mold in the shower or bathroom and let them dry for an hour.

 Use a dry towel or microfiber cloth to wipe off the mold afterwards. In addition to removing grain mites, this solution can also be used to kill other irritating insects in the pantry.

To kill mold mites on walls, use borax

 In the same way that mold often forms on walls, it is no surprise that mold mites also like to settle in on these surfaces. A musty smell and brown stains in corners may indicate mold. The white powder is readily available at home improvement shops, big-box stores, and even grocery stores. You can use it to kill mold and mildew, among other things.

 If consumed, borax can irritate the eyes and skin, as well as nausea, so wear gloves when handling it. Mold damage on painted drywall can be treated with borax. Try a small, discreet area first. mold may grow on unpainted drywall, so you should replace that part of the wall.

Mold can be removed from concrete basement walls and other surfaces, too, with this recipe. Dissolve the powder by shaking the ingredients in a spray bottle. Clean the wall with a dry cloth after you squirt the cleaner and wait a few minutes. mold can also be removed from the wood, such as furniture and panelling, using this method.

Bleach: A natural way to get rid of mold mites

 Chemical cleaners are sometimes necessary or desirable. You can also make your own with products like Clorox and Lysol. Mixing bleach with ammonia can create hazardous fumes, which is why you should never do it.

Stainless steel, solid surfaces like mattresses and mold mite infestations should only be treated with bleach. Wood and drywall, which are porous, absorb bleach, which only amplifies the moisture issue.

The Best Way to Prevent Mold and Mold Mites

In humid, dark, damp environments, these pests thrive. Cracks and crevices are favourite hiding places for them. Reduce the temperature and humidity in your home to make it less appealing. Keep shelves and corners clean by regularly cleaning them. Keep sinks and showers dry by wiping up spills and water quickly. You can also take help from the best mold remediation California services.

Emphasise removing moisture from rooms such as the bathroom, kitchen, basement, and laundry room. Install a dehumidifier when necessary and open windows when possible. Although it’s not possible to kill mold mites directly, it is possible to combat the mold that they require to survive. You now know how to get rid of mold mites using everyday cleaning solutions and mold prevention techniques.

What Do You Do When Only One Parent Needs Care?

What Do You Do When Only One Parent Needs Care?

Dad’s health is poor and it’s time for him to move to a nursing home. The only problem is, Mom’s still independent and they don’t want to live apart.

It’s not an uncommon situation. When one parent needs care and the other doesn’t, it seems like there’s no good option. Either your parents stay together as caregiving at home grows more difficult, potentially creating frustration and resentment (not to mention safety concerns), or your aging parents have to live apart.

It’s difficult to make senior care decisions for your parents. However, you may have more options than you realize.

Create a safer home with accessibility remodeling

Accessibility remodeling eliminates many of the physical barriers at home. Bathroom remodeling in particular minimizes issues surrounding incontinence and hygiene. For elderly adults with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, kitchen remodeling prevents fire hazards while promoting independence.

It’s also a good idea to take care of any necessary repairs so that senior loved ones can live comfortably and safely. For example, if there are issues in your loved one’s bathroom that need addressing, or you want to install a curbless shower to make it more accessible, work with the professionals at Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing to ensure the job is handled correctly.

If you’re not able to modify the home properly or if modifications are too expensive, consider downsizing your parents. Research accessible homes in your area to get an idea about what’s available and affordable. 

Hire in-home caregiving help

Home modifications may not be enough to relieve the physical and emotional pressure of being an elderly spouse’s sole caregiver. In-home caregivers provide much-needed help with personal care and daily activities. Caregivers may be hired through an agency or a placement website. If hiring an independent caregiver, write an employment contract and be sure to pay them legally.

Become a paid family caregiver

Alternatively, you may decide to become a family caregiver for your parents. Family caregiving is both a gift and a sacrifice. Caregivers often have to reduce their work hours or quit their jobs altogether. Luckily, financial assistance is available in some states to reduce the financial burden of family caregiving.

Consider a continuing care retirement community

If staying at home simply isn’t an option, look into senior living facilities that keep couples close by. Continuing care retirement communities provide multiple levels of care on a single campus. Senior couples with different care needs might not be able to share the same unit in a CCRC, but a visit is only a short walk away.

The biggest challenge surrounding CCRCs is the price. CCRCs have the highest costs among senior living communities and many charge high entrance fees.

Search for a nursing facility close to home

Sometimes, living apart is the only way to get an elderly parent the care they need. When one parent moves to a nursing home, the most important thing is that they don’t feel abandoned. Choose a facility in nearby Chicago and check ratings to ensure the facility is trustworthy. Also, schedule visits, phone calls, and video calls on a regular basis to help your loved one adjust.

Don’t forget to monitor for signs of senior isolation in the parent who remains home. Loneliness is a serious threat to older adults’ wellbeing and it’s more important to support your parents now than ever. Encourage your parents to socialize, call and visit often, and drop in for social meals as frequently as possible.

Remember that you’re doing your best

Separating elderly parents isn’t an easy decision, but don’t blame yourself. We can’t always control our circumstances and it’s an unfortunate reality that sometimes, the best solution is separate living arrangements. Practice self-care and remind yourself that you’re doing your best in a difficult situation.

8 Eco-Friendly Plumbing Solutions for Your Home

Plumbing problems can strike at any time, and if you’re like most homeowners, you don’t want to wait until something happens before you start looking for a solution. Fortunately, there are plenty of eco-friendly plumbing solutions that will allow you to have peace of mind without posing a risk to the environment. Whether you’re trying to save water, reduce waste or cut your carbon footprint altogether, here are six easy ways to make your plumbing greener at home.

1.   Use a Faucet Aerator

If you don’t already have one, invest in a faucet aerator. Using a faucet aerator is like using a smaller shower head, but it works. A typical faucet aerator will reduce your water consumption by half. 

Aerators only cost $5 to $10 and can be found at any hardware store. Be sure to buy an aerator that fits onto your existing faucet. Installing one takes only five minutes and requires no plumbing skills whatsoever; some models even include an installation tool with your purchase. However, don't shy away from getting the necessary assistance if you can't do it.

2.   Install an Energy Efficient Water Heater

If you’re looking to reduce your home’s carbon footprint, installing a high-efficiency water heater is a great way to start, and it’ll also save you money! They use at least 30% less energy than standard models and can save homeowners hundreds of dollars over time. 

This task, admittedly, is not one that you should take on if you do not have the experience. Seek out a professional plumber, and ask about these solutions; they might have special deals available or partnerships with installers that will give you discounts on their service.

3.   Replace Your Toilet Flapper and/or Seal

A new toilet flapper or seal is cheap, environmentally friendly, and will save a lot of water. Replacing just one flapper can save as much as 10,000 gallons a year! And that’s just from one toilet. If you have multiple bathrooms in your home or business, it’s worth doing a little research on how to replace those old flappers so that you can start saving water today.

4.   Insulate Hot-Water Pipes in Unheated Areas

Hot water pipes in unheated areas like attics and crawl spaces can lose up to 50% of their heat—that’s your money going down the drain. By insulating hot water pipes, you can reduce your energy bill and reduce harmful greenhouse gases. 

In addition, since a hot water tank generally stays hot until it’s drained at night, keeping water moving through your pipes by using an electric timer is a good idea; set it so that when you wake up in the morning, all of your hot water is ready to go!

5.   Turn Off the Faucet While Brushing

Turning off your water while brushing will help reduce unnecessary water usage and bills. Likewise, consider turning off your faucet when you’re not using it to eliminate even more wasted water. If you want to make an immediate change, simply cutting back your shower by a few minutes can lead to substantial savings over time. 

Experts say that taking shorter showers can save you up to 3,000 gallons of water each year! It may not be worth it, but cutting out just six minutes of shower time each day will save an average person around 1,350 gallons per year. And if all Americans took shorter showers—an easy way to reduce our reliance on foreign oil—it would save about 24 billion gallons of gasoline per year!

6.   Fix Leaks Quickly to Reduce Waste

To start, you’ll want to address any leaks in your plumbing system. Leaks are one of the biggest waste offenders for household water usage. You should also invest in energy-efficient fixtures like faucets, toilets, showerheads, and washing machines, which can significantly reduce your home’s monthly water consumption by as much as 20%. With these changes alone, most homeowners see a 25% reduction in their total water bill within six months of installation.

7.   Get Eco-friendly Cleaning Solutions

As we all know, cleaning is a must in any home; yet, not all cleaning solutions are eco-friendly. Many household cleaners contain toxic chemicals that harm our planet and end up in our water systems. However, several companies and self-employed individuals have come up with cleaners made from ingredients like vinegar or baking soda. 

Alternatively, you can purchase other safe enzymatic biological drainage cleaners that are now common and widely distributed in the market. By choosing to use green cleaners for everyday household chores like washing dishes or scrubbing your tub or drainage systems, you can do your part in helping keep toxic chemicals out of your water system—and save money at the same time! 

8.   Set Up A Dual Plumbing System

The primary purpose of a dual plumbing system is water conservation. One side of it has potable water, which you can use for cooking, drinking, and washing. In contrast, the other side ensures water is repurposed into other helpful issues around the home, like flushing the toilet or in your irrigation system. A good plumber should set this system up to ensure that you don't drink or cook with repurposed water. 

Using eco-friendly plumbing solutions in your home can reduce carbon emissions, water consumption, and even lower your utility bills. They’re more sustainable, better for your family, and better for your community. If you're looking to upgrade your plumbing system to save money and protect our planet's natural resources, consider using one of these seven eco-friendly solutions.

About the Author

Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.

Sliding Doors: The Best Choice to Open and Transform Your Space

Sliding doors are a great way to open your space and make it feel larger. Not only do they look great, but they also provide easy access to the areas behind them. Whether you're looking to install them in a new home or renovate your current one, there are many different options to choose from.

Types of Sliding Doors

There are two main types when it comes to sliding doors: full glass and partial glass. Full glass provides the ultimate look in open space, while partial glass adds extra security such as a sliding door lock, or insulation options. Partial doors also provide the flexibility for them to slide into an alcove, letting you decide how much of your space you want to open.

Both types of sliding doors are available in single, double, and triple panels. The door thickness depends on the number of panels, with thicker being more stable and secure. You have plenty of choices when it comes to your sliding door materials too, most popular are; wood, vinyl, aluminum-clad, and fiberglass.

When it comes to hardware, there are many different options that all depend on your personal preference. Whether you want fully concealed tracks or exposed for a more open feel, the choice is up to you. Sliding doors give you plenty of variety in style and materials to choose from when it comes to installation.

Improve Your Home with Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are a great way to improve your home. They can be used as closet doors or added to bathrooms, kitchens, and alcoves too. This kind of upgrade is a simple and inexpensive way to make a big impact on the look of any room. By opening up the space you also allow more natural light to enter, making your home warmer and more inviting.

DIY tips when installing sliding doors for your home

Choose the location of your new sliding door

Do you want to install them in a living space like the kitchen, dining room, or den? Or would an alcove work better in the bedrooms or bathrooms? The location is entirely up to you.

Consider using multiple

No matter what area of your home you're looking to open, sliding doors provide the perfect solution for you. Whether you want to create a new alcove walk-in closet or an open living space, doors can do it all. By using multiple panels, you can also add partial glass for the option of insulation and privacy.

Check your local codes for installation

Before installing sliding doors for your home, it's important to check with your local code department first. Different homes may require different permits or inspections depending on where they are located. Always follow directions when installing them in your home to ensure you are meeting the required codes.

Beyond sliding doors

If sliding doors aren't your style or you just want to have more choice, there are other options available. French doors are another option that provides lots of added charm. They can be installed in any room of your home and provide comfort for socializing with family and friends.

When adding French doors to your home, make sure you choose tempered glass for added security. The last thing you want is a shattered piece of glass when someone walks into or through them by accident.

Sliding doors also come in other styles such as bifold and accordion-style that provide the same function and charm as full and partial glass. The choices are endless when it comes to installing them in your home. They also give you control of your space and a unique style that will make a big impact on any area of your home. It's hard to go wrong with them as they provide added charm, security, warmth, and comfort for all those who enter.

Installing sliding doors is a great way to improve the look and feel of your home. They are an easy and inexpensive way to open space, let in natural light, and provide privacy. Sliding doors come in many different styles and materials so you can find the perfect one for your home. Always check with your local code department before installing them to make sure you are meeting all requirements. With lots of choices, sliding doors are a simple and easy way to open any room in your home.

Guest Contributor: Andrew Adams

6 Tips To Know When You Should Replace Your Air Filter

Did you know that low-quality air can have a negative impact on the overall health of your family and you?

Air filters seem to be an indispensable part of any air conditioning machine. Their main purpose is to make sure that the air you get is clean and safe to breathe. However, by the time they work, they invariably lose their power and need to be replaced. If, however, it does not get its replacement, it may lead to various health and other problems. 

To that end, here are some important 6 tips to know when you should replace your air filter and thus keep your family, home, and yourself safe!

Dirty Filter

As the air filter constantly filters the air, it, in turn, accumulates dirt and everything that should not go together with your air. However, the filters have their working lives and capacity. In that way, over time, when they accumulate enough dirt, their efficiency falls, and they become less and less effective in filtering the air. Therefore, once enough dirt is accumulated, it is definitely the time you need to replace it with a new one. 

To that end, it is useful to pull out the filter at least once a month and check for dirt accumulation. For instance, in certain seasons, filters can accumulate more dirt than in others. Therefore, if you find your filter dirty, replace it. You can find great air filter solutions if you click here and find more useful information on how to properly replace your filter. Getting proper and quality filters will prevent low-quality air from coming into your house. 

Poor performance

Unclean air filters can lead to different and multiple imperfections in the work of your machine. Firstly, it will lead to poorer performance of the HVAC in general. This may also lead to a rather noisy functioning. Secondly, during the allergy season, it will be less capable of preventing allergens from coming into your house. It may bring dust and debris into your house. Lastly, it may cause system failure, which may be costly to repair. Obviously, there are a number of harmful effects unclean filters can have both on you and your machine. In that way, make sure that, based on the size and type of your air machine, you change the filter in a timely manner.

The machine is heating excessively 

If you can notice that your air machine is overheating, then the possible answer to that may lie in a dirty air filter. Due to a clogged filter, the machine takes more energy to pump air through it, which, in effect, results in larger electricity consumption and overheating. This can have multiple disadvantages. First, the air you get is not healthy. Second, you may face a larger electricity bill. What is more, the lifetime of your machine may be significantly reduced due to the excessive work and heating on a daily basis. All these facts may cost you much in different ways, and the easiest way to get rid of them is to simply change your air filter regularly.

Black smoke

If you happen to notice black or brown smoke getting out of the exhaust, you should certainly check your HVAC. One of the reasons may be that the filter is clogged due to the accumulated dust and dirt, so make sure you change it.

Bad smell

If you can notice a bad odor coming out of your air conditioning machine, then this is certainly a reason to check it in more detail and probably replace the old air filter as it can often be the cause of it. This way, you will also avoid dust coming into your house. What is more, you will ensure you have cleaner air, and will possibly even prevent fire from coming out of it!  

You can't recall the last time changed it

Filters can sometimes be dirty and clogged for a long time but with no salient symptoms. However, don’t let this fool you, for although there are no visible traces of an overdue filter, the air that goes through it is still not clean and healthy. Therefore, if it ever comes to your mind, and you can’t remember the last time you changed the air filter, know it is the high time you did it.

Lastly, air filters should be changed approximately every two months. However, if you notice any of these bad signs from the list, then you should do it immediately, in order to be on the safe side. 

Our air machines do their best to provide us with the best possible air quality. However, we, in turn, have to give our best in doing our part properly and timely. To that end, it is essential that we replace the air filters regularly, and use those filters with a long tradition and high quality!

A Whole House Water Filter Is A Worthwhile Investment - Here’s Why

The key to the lock of healthy life is definitely healthy water. Water is used for literally every segment of our lives; we cook, wash, shower, and bathe with it, and most importantly we drink it to keep us alive and hydrated, and this is why the struggle with clean water is the real struggle. Because of the various factors, it is desirable to test your water once in a while on the solids and presence of any kind of chemical substances that can seriously affect our health. Therefore, having the whole house water filter is a necessity if you want your family to always be given enough clean water. Here are some detailed reasons why a whole house water filter is a worthy investment.

Benefits of Water Filtration at Home 

Basic Indicators that Your Water Is Not Safe 

You can sense when something is off with your water and it usually has to do with taste and bad odor. Once you pour the tap water into the glass, you will notice the cloudy appearance, color, feel the fishy odor or even chlorine odor, and that is the moment when you should conduct a water check that will prove that something is off with your water. Water filters eliminate chlorine and other chemicals from your water and the odor caused by these chemicals. Substances like fluoride, chlorine, lead, aluminum and other heavy metals are easily removed from water by the use of various water filtration techniques. One of them is reversed osmosis which marks the presence of the membrane that collects all the toxic particles leaving the water crystal clear. 

It Will Pay Itself off 

Every filtration system is a long-term investment and will eventually pay itself off. It is true that there should be a hefty sum of money invested, but it is also true that almost the same sum of money would be invested into the bottled water purchase. Additionally, this will give a hand in the attempt to reduce the amount of plastic being thrown around and will save most of the devices using water such as dishwashers, washing machines, and the other devices using the water as the source. 

Physical Benefits 

You are probably asking yourself what kind of physical benefits a water filter provides. Well, this is closely connected to the very quality of water. Once it is completely stripped from the particles affecting the quality and therefore our overall health, our state of being will change for the better. In essence, cleaner water promotes detoxification and makes our body throw out the toxins, improves our digestion, and makes nutrient absorption much better.  Besides this, cleaner water will have a positive effect on your skin and hair since it will make them feel softer. It is funny how all of these small things are underestimated yet they make a huge impact on our better lifestyle. 

Maintenance 

Possessing a whole house water filter will spare you some struggles that other water filters can make. You will not have to worry about changing filters, constant refilling, fixing hoses, and dealing with constant system failures. Once you have the whole house filtration system, you will not ever have to worry about if there is enough water, since some filtration systems have a limited amount of water they can purify in a certain period. It is fascinating how a single water purification system can keep all the water in the house clean long-term by changing the filters every couple of years.

Cons of the Whole House Water System 

Pricey- normally, these systems cost loads of money and are a serious investment, besides all other utilities you need for a normal everyday functioning. Besides the filtration system, you will also need to pay the setup fee as well. On top of it, if your plumbing system does not apply to the filtration system, then your plumbing setup will need to undergo certain modifications to fit the frame. Therefore, the very expense required for the system installation turns off the possible consumers, however, some people decide to take a risk and even take a loan in order to use the system that will improve the water quality once and forever. 

Even though the price of the whole house filtration system is a serious question to be discussed, it should be taken into consideration since it is the system that will give long-term results and that will provide clean water for the entire house without some regular problems with filtration systems. This is a serious investment in your home, but definitely worth one.