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Flush a Water Heater | All Your Questions are Answered

It’s good practice to flush a water heater once a year. This simple task can improve the lifespan of your water heater, as well as other valuable benefits. Doing it takes no special tools, and is easier than you may think. In this article I will tell you everything you need to know about flushing a water heater.    Not every water heater needs to be flushed. A tankless water heater doesn’t require this task as it has no tank that can build up sediment. Some water heaters may need this task done more frequently than others. Consult your water heater’s manual to find out how often you should flush your water heater. Skill Level: Beginner Required Tools: Water Meter Key or Crescent Wrench; Garden Hose Total Time: 1-2 Hours Price To Hire Professional: $75-$200 Jump to Water Heater Flushing Process What Flushing A Water Heater Means The water heater is a large tank that cold water flows into, and gets heated up before going to other parts of your home. Over time sediment will deposit in the bottom of the tank over time. This happens because water has things like minerals that build up, causing problems for the home’s hot water supply. Benefits of Flushing the Water Heater Flushing the water heater is a good way to remove sediment from the tank. This process has benefits that it brings. The lifespan of the water heater will lengthen. You also will likely have less sediment in your water that can cause mineral build ups in places like the shower.   This process also increases the amount of available hot water that can be used. If it doesn’t take long for the water to get cold in the shower when someone uses the kitchen sink, chances are flushing the water heater might help with this problem. Can I Flush a Water Heater Myself? This is a household maintenance task that can be done by anyone with a basic knowledge of tools and how the home works. The process is a simple one that can be done in a few hours. You don’t need any special tools to do this either. It should be repeated once a year. Some water heaters benefit from more frequent flushings. Consult the manual to find out if this applies to your water heater. What happens if you never flush a water heater? Flushing a water heater is beneficial to the lifespan of the water heater, among other things. This means if it never gets flushed there are multiple problems that may arise.  Some of the problems are decreased lifespan of water heater, sediment clogging pressure release valve, and reduced water heater efficiency.  If you live in a house that hasn’t had their water heater yet, it’s okay to start doing the process. There is a good chance the sediment level may have clogged the drain valve. If this is the case, you can use the backflushing steps below.  How To Flush a Water Heater Locate the cold water supply valve and shut it off. You will need a crescent wrench or a water supply key. This usually is near the street in a concrete box in the ground. Some homes have another one that’s located in the home. First Start by turning off the water to your house. This will shut off the water that flows into the water heater. If your water heater has a valve on the intake water you can shut it off here instead. Second Turn off the power to the water heater at the breaker box. Do this by locating the breaker its connected to and switching it off. You do not want the tank to heat up when it’s empty. This can cause damage to various componenets. Third Turn on the hot water at a faucet somewhere in your house. This will allow air to enter the line which is going to help the water flow out of the water heater tank.  Fourth Hook up a garden hose to the spigot at the base of the water heater. Unravel the hose and put the other end outside. It should be downhill from the water heater, and somewhere the water can flow away. Fifth Open the valve allowing the water to flow out. If water does not flow it can mean there is sediment build up blocking the flow. This will need to be remedied. Back Flushing The Water Heater Back Flushing is a technique used to help release some of the sediment that is clogged at the opening of the water heater. When water doesn’t flow out of the heater during the flushing process, this will help fix the issue. It’s also a good way to loosen up the sediment more after the water heater is empty, releasing more sediment. In addition to a garden hose, you will also need a female-to-female hose adapter. There will need to be a hose bib within reach of the water heater. A sink may work but an adapter to connect to the sink’s water supply will be required. Your home’s water should be turned back on for this procedure. Step 1 Attach the hose to the faucet, and connect the adapter to the other end of the hose. Attach this end to the water heater. Step 2 Open the valve at the base of the water heater that the hose is connected to. Step 3 Turn on the hose water allowing it to flow into the bottom of the water heater. Listen to the flow for any changes or for it to stop. If stopped, remove and attempt to flush the water heater again. Sixth If the back flushing technique was required you can now go back to the fifth step listed above. The water should be turned off for this.  Now your water heater is successfully flushed. You can now close the drain valve and turn the water to your house back on. Allow the water heater to fill up and

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Best Electric Lawn Mowers in 2025

Using the best electric lawn mower for your yard will take your lawn care routine to the next level. Each yard has different conditions, and thankfully there is a lawn mower that is designed to accommodate your yard’s needs. When you pick the right lawn mower it makes yard care quicker and more enjoyable. Now scroll down to see what the best electric lawn mower is for your specific requirements. When you are done with mowing your lawn it’s nice to cut the edge as well. Take a look at The Best Cordless Weed Wacker to find one that works for you. And once you are done with all your yard work the cleanup is important. That’s where The Best Leaf Blower for your home comes in handy.  The lawn mowers on this list are broken into different categories to help narrow down your search. Click on one of the categories below that looks interesting to you. Or you can scroll down to browse them as well.  Contents Yard Size Chart Best Electric Lawn Mower Overall Best High Tech Electric Lawn Mower Best Quiet Electric Lawn Mower Best Electric Lawn Mower For Large Yards Best Electric Lawn Mower For Small Yards Frequently Asked Questions Conclusion Yard Size Chart Yards come with different size lawns. It’s important to know what amount of grass your lawn mower can cut before running out of power. This will be less important if you have a spare battery on hand that is already charged and ready to use. If not, it’s good to know how much area your mower can handle between charges. Small Lawns These are lawns that are up to a quarter acre in size. This works out to be just over 1200 square yards. You can look at it as a yard that takes an average adult male 42 paces to walk the length, and 42 paces to walk the width. Medium Lawns These are considered lawns that are between a quarter acre and a half an acre. This is up to 2400 square yards, or roughly 60 paces in either direction for an adult male to walk.  Large Lawns A large lawn for a walk behind lawn mower is one that is up to three quarters of an acre in size. This works out to be up to 3600 square yards. Consider this a yard where you can walk 72 paces in either direction for an adult male.  Best Electric Lawn Mower Overall EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower Brand: Ego Cutting Width: 21 inch Run Time: 45 min Charge Time: 40-60 min Area Cut per Charge: 1/4 Acre Price: $429 Buy Now! The EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower performs like no other. It boasts a 56 volt lithium-ion battery, revolutionizing how you perform lawn maintenance. It harnesses the power and run time to make the toughest mowing job seem easy. Key Features Wide Cutting Deck This mower has a 21 inch cutting deck, making it a suitable option for medium to large size lawns. This means you will be able to mow your lawn with fewer passes than some of the other choices out there. 3 Mowers in 1 It offers 3-in-1 functionality, giving you several options to choose from. You can decide to use the mulch attachment, bag your grass clippings, or use the discharge side shoot option depending on your preference.  Powerful Battery It uses a 56 volt lithium-ion battery. This gives it exceptional power and runtime, allowing you to use the battery for up to 45 minutes before charging it again. Typical battery charge time is between 30-60 minutes.  Foldable Design It has a foldable design, giving you more options on where you can store it when not in use. The handles collapse, and it stands vertically on end letting it fit in tight spaces. Variable Speed The self propelled system lets you control the speed of this mower’s self drive function. This allows the mower to match your pace on more terrain options.  The EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower juxtaposes a powerful battery with innovative features.  This lawn mower gives you plenty of versatility for you to maintain a professional looking lawn with less effort. You will be able to use it in more weather conditions than other electric lawn mowers. And when it’s not in use, the EGO Power+ Lawn Mower folds up to conveniently store it away. Best High Tech Electric Lawn Mower Mowrator S1 Mowrator S1 Remote Controlled Lawn Mower Brand: Mowrator Cutting Width: 21 inch Run Time:2.25 hours Charge Time: 90 min Area Cut per Charge: 1/4 acre Price: $3,999 Buy Now! The Mowrator S1 is the perfect lawn mower choice for the technophile. This remote controlled electric lawn mower is loaded with features you will love. The most important feature is you don’t need to walk to mow the lawn anymore. The low latency level for the controller’s signal means it reacts instantaneously when you control it. Click the above link now to make the chore of lawn mowing as much fun as playing a video game. Key Features Complex Terrain Capability The all terrain tires make light work of many terrain styles. It’s capable of mowing on slopes of up to 75 degrees. You get three blade speeds and three travel speeds to make  Long Charge Time This versatile mower will mow more than one acre on a single charge without emitting any pollution.  Auto Cruise Mow in perfectly straight lines with the auto cruise feature. Turn it on for clean, straight lines. When you are ready to turn hit a button for an automatic u-turn to get back on the same path. “Enhanced Feature” Maintain large lawns hands free with the enhanced feature.  Multiple Safety Features Keep your kids and pets safe with the multiple safety features. This mower has several sensors that will stop the blades from spinning when triggered. For instance if the feed bag becomes dislodged a sensor will turn the blades off for safety purposes. 

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Best Cordless Weed Wacker in 2025

Best Cordless Weed Wacker in 2025

Finding the best cordless weed wacker has so many benefits. You will make yard work so much easier and quicker. There are a few important features you should look at before making your choice. Take a look at the weed eaters below to find the right one for you now.  Another tool that will help make your yard work quicker is a leaf blower. Take a look at The Best Leaf Blowers to see which one you like the most. Some of the weed wackers in this article are compatible with certain lawn mowers. If you want to find a weed wacker that works with your lawn mower, see the article on 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers For 2024.  Yard work is an important factor in home maintenance. I put together an article in home maintenance that can guide you through the annual process of keeping your home in great condition.  Contents Best Cordless Weed Wacker With Optional Accessories Best Battery Powered Weed Wacker For The Money Best Weed Wacker For Small Yards Best Environmentally Friendly Weed Wacker Best Weed Wacker For Large Yards Section 6 Section 7 Section 8 Best Cordless Weed Wacker With Optional Accessories EGO Cordless Weed Wacker EGO ST1511T Brand: EGO Cutting Width: 15 inches Runtime: 45 min Weight: 10.27 pounds Power Source: Battery Price: $220 Buy Now! The EGO Cordless Weed Wacker brings cutting-edge technology to the lawn care world. Its powerful battery combined with multiple features makes it a formidable option for your yard care needs. This tool has been engineered to offer levels of precision and convenience that are unmatched in the field. EGO also makes an assortment of attachments that are interchangeable, letting you use things like a pole saw, hedge trimmer, or ground cultivator.  Top Accessories The EGO Power+ 15” Strap  makes using this string trimmer a breeze. Reduce your fatigue by distributing the weight over your shoulders evenly. It’s compatible with the Ego Power+ multi-head system kit as well. EGO makes a Build Your Own Tool System that is compatible with the power head and runs off the same 56 volt battery. You can use the same power head for multiple tool attachments. This will cut back on the amount of tools you buy for your yard. Key Features Powerful Battery It’s powered by a whopping 56 volt lithium-ion battery, which means you are going to have a long lasting charge. This is juxtiposed with the right amount of power for any job you can throw at it. Don’t hassle with cords or dealing with messy gasoline and oil. This weed eater is the right option for your yard.  Versatile Cutting Head It powers a 15 inch cutting swath, giving a wide area to reduce time the job takes. When the cutting line wears out, the rapid reload feature with it’s dual line feed gets you cutting quicker, and finish the job sooner. Variable Speed Control Fine-tune your cutting speed to better suit your needs. You can reduce the speed to make a delicate edge line look pristine, or make it powerful enough to tackle the thicker vegetation.  Weather-Resistant Construction It was built with weather resistant materials, letting you use it when you need to. Don’t let the weather dictate your schedule. EGO Power+ System Compatibility The batteries are interchangeable with other Ego Power+ System tools. Enjoy the convenience of having a spare battery on hand that you can switch to when one dies.  The EGO ST1511T Cordless Weed Wacker Is a string trimmer that can be converted into multiple other yard tools. It has every capability to handle all your yard care needs, whether you are a homeowner or a professional landscaper. The 56 volt battery offers the power you need to get the job done. Ego also offers attachments that can be used for various other jobs that extend far beyond lawn care. This tool is a perfect option for your yard care needs. Best Battery Powered Weed Wacker For The Money BLACK+DECKER Cordless Weed Wacker BLACK+DECKER LST300 Brand: Black+Decker Cutting Width: 12 inches Runtime: N/A Weight: 5.7 lbs Power Source: Battery Price: $100 Buy Now! The BLACK+DECKER Cordless Weed Whacker is a tool designed for efficiency and reliability. This battery operated model is a great choice for both the casual gardener, and seasoned lawn care aficionado. It has a lightweight design that reduces fatigue. It also is quieter than other weed eater options. Key Features Lightweight Design The LST300 weighs only 5.7 pounds, making it lightweight enough to not get fatigued over long periods of use. It’s also easy to maneuver through tight spaces and around obstacles. Automatic Feed Spool This feature offers continuous cutting by automatically feeding the line out when needed. Gives you a 13 inch cutting swath to make your job easier and finish sooner. You will have no more hassle of manually feeding the line out.  Strong Battery It uses a 20 volt lithium-ion battery which lets you use it wherever it’s needed. You don’t have to hunt down a power outlet to plug it in, or hassle with smelly gasoline. Two-in-One Design  It’s simple to switch between trimming and edging mode. This lets you handle borders as well as hard to reach areas with less hassle.  The BLACK+DECKER Cordless Weed Whacker has an amazing combination of power and versatility. It’s cordless operation, along with lightweight and comfortable design is a winning combination for any yard’s needs. On top of that you have the ability to quickly swap the battery with your other Black+Decker 20 volt lithium-ion batteries, making it perfect for tackling any size job. Best Weed Wacker For Small Yards WORX Cordless Weed Wacker WORX WG163 GT 3.0 Brand: Worx Cutting Width: 12 inch Runtime: Weight: 6 pounds Power Source: Battery (2 included) Price: $140 Buy Now! The WORX WG163 GT 3.0 Weed Wacker gives you a combination of features that make it a user-friendly tool. It has an ergonomic design, making it ideal for long periods of use. This is a great option for homeowners who want a tool

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Best Cordless Leaf Blower

Best Cordless Leaf Blower For 2025

When you’re using the best cordless leaf blower in your yard, you’re using a tool that’s making your life much easier. Every yard has a different set of demands that need to be met in order to maintain something beautiful. With the right tool you can enjoy the work you are doing much more because it’s not as hard to complete. The right assortment of features can help cut back on the amount of time it takes to finish the job. The list below has the best cordless leaf blower for you in it, so keep reading to find out which one you want. Technology makes our lives easier in many ways. Yard care tools help us work quicker and with less stress. The leaf blower is one of several tools that help make the yard look beautiful. I’d like you to take a look at the article that talks about the 10 Best Electric Lawn Mowers if that’s another tool you are considering. There is also an article on the 7 Best Weed Wackers on the market today. These three articles are designed to help show you what tools will be best for your yard. Let’s now take a look at cordless leaf blowers. The amount available today can seem overwhelming. This list covers the main categories of leaf blowers homeowners will come across. I’m confident your yard will fit into one of these categories. Take a look at the table of contents below and click ahead to that section if you would like more information on that one. Or keep scrolling to see which one is the best cordless leaf blower for your home. Contents Best Cordless Leaf Blower Overall Best Environmentally Friendly Cordless Leaf Blower Best Heavy Duty Cordless Leaf Blower Best Cordless Leaf Blower For The Money Best Cordless Leaf Blower For Small Yards Best Cordless Leaf Blower For Under $100 Most Powerful Cordless Leaf Blower Best Cordless Leaf Blower For Large Yards Best Cordless Leaf Blower Overall EGO Cordless Leaf Blower EGO Power+ LB6151 Brand: EGO Runtime: 75 min Airflow: 615 cfm Weight: 7.5 lbs  Sound Level: 71 dB Power Source: 56 Volt Battery Price: $199 Buy Now! The EGO LB6151 Cordless Leaf Blower is the top pic for several reasons. It is powered by an impressive 56 volt lithium-ion battery, which supplies a tremendous amount of power. This one can push a whopping 580 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of airflow. That means it’s moving whatever is in its path at 168 miles per hour MPH. It’s great at keeping driveways, sidewalks and yards of any size clean. The battery is compatible with other EGO cordless tools like the lawn mower and weed wacker. It comes with a battery and charger. PRO TIP: Take your yard care to a new level with the complete suite of EGO power tools. The tools are designed to be compatible, and many offer valuable accessories like the gutter cleaning attachment that makes quick work of one of the most irritating chore your home can require. Key Features Powerful Performance It moves air at a rate of 580 CFM. This means it produces winds of up to 168 MPH, helping you efficiently and effortlessly clear any leaves and debris on your property. Cordless Convenience Its 56 volt lithium-ion battery gives you all the mobility you need. No more searching for a power cord to plug into, or fiddling with smelly gasoline anymore. The battery charges in under 100 minutes. Turbine Fan Engineering The turbine fan engine is an efficient way of producing maximum amounts of power. The design allows for larger volumes of air movement to move across the turbine, giving off more flow. Low-Noise Operation This leaf blower produces low levels of noise when in use. It’s four times quieter than a gas blower making it less of a nuisance to your family and neighbors.  Compatibility The EGO Power+ lithium battery is compatible with other battery powered EGO products. This gives you extra batteries to have on hand, keeping your tools running longer without any interruptions. The EGO LB6151 Cordless Leaf Blower is a superior choice in personal cordless leaf blowers. It’s assortment of features, combined with a sleek and attractive look will be the envy of the neighborhood. Learn more about your new EGO leaf blower by clicking the link above. Best Environmentally Friendly Cordless Leaf Blower Greenworks Cordless Leaf Blower Greenworks Pro 80V Brand: Greenworks Runtime: Weight: Airflow: 145 MPH/580 CFM Sound Level: Power Source: Battery Price: $380 Buy Now! The Greenworks Pro 80V cordless leaf blower is a powerful leaf blower that gives the other choices a run for their money. It harnesses the strength of a jet turbine technology, which improves the blower’s efficiency. There is no need to search for a power outlet or handle smelly gas because this leaf blower uses an 80 volt lithium-ion battery. With an assortment of other tools, Greenworks makes great alternatives to gas powered yard tools. Tool comes with a charger and one battery. Key Features Powerful It’s 80 volt battery powers a jet turbine engine, making it capable of handling any challenge you bring it. Move up to 580 cubic feet per minute with it’s variable speed options. It’s power level makes it a great alternative to gas powered leaf blowers for those of us who take pride in making environmentally friendly choices. Quiet Operation The brushless motor gives the leaf blower quiet sound levels when in operation. You won’t be waking up the neighbors when you are doing yard work in the cool of the mornings.  Easy Maintenance The only maintenance is to make sure the battery is charged. There is no need to handle smelly gasoline and oil. No more changing spark plugs either. Once the battery is charged you’re ready to go. Long Battery Life The 80-volt lithium-ion battery offers longer runtime. Finish the job you started without being interrupted by a dead battery in the middle of your job. The battery is compatible with batteries from other

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7 Best Patio Furniture Sets

With all the patio furniture sets available, there has got to be one that is perfect for your yard. The right conversation set will fit perfectly in your outdoor space. It was created for the exact design you are making for your yard. Take a look at the outdoor furniture sets below which were created for some of the most common patio design ideas. Contents Best Overall Patio Furniture Set Best Sectional Patio Furniture Set Best Rocking Patio Furniture Set Best Two Person Bistro Set Best medium Size Patio Furniture Set Best Patio Furniture Set With Options To Choose From  Best Patio Furniture Set With Fire Pit Best Overall Patio Furniture Set HERA’S HOUSE 7 Pieces Set ​ HERA’S HOUSE 7 Pieces Rattan Patio Furniture Set ​ Brand: HERA’S House Material: E-Coated/Powder Coated Metal; Canvas Cushions Maintenance: Wipe with wet cloth Size: 7 piece set sits up to 9 Color Options: Beige; Blue; Grey Price: $1300 Buy Now! The HERA’S House 7 Piece Patio Furniture Set is a great combination of comfort and durability. This conversation set offers 9 seating options, giving everyone in your family the opportunity to choose the most comfortable seating option for them. This metal framed set includes waterproof cushions that wipe clean easily. Key Features E-Coating, Powder Coated Frames The frames are coated with E-coating and powder coating technology, making the furniture strong enough to stand up to harmful UV rays and inclement weather for many years. You don’t need to worry about rust or deterioration with this set. Comfortable Cushions These 5.75 inch thick cushions are made of four layers. They start with a sponge core that’s topped with a comfortable cotton padding. Then it’s surrounded by a protective waterproof layer. Finally the external material gives it a beautiful aesthetic.  Versatile Configuration This seven piece set offers space for nine people to sit. You have a choice to sit at a three person couch, two stationary arm chairs, two swivel arm chairs, or two ottomans. The ottomans can double as a coffee table as well. Easy Maintenance The protective layer in the cushions makes cleanup quick and easy. And with the protective coatings on the metal frames it makes keeping the set clean a simple task.  All Weather Use This furniture is made with cushion pro technology. This means it’s easy to wipe up when dirty, and repels oils and water with ease.  The HERA’S HOUSE 7 Pieces Rattan Patio Furniture Set is a great addition to your yard. It offers a variety of seating for a large group of up to nine people. It has a durable build, and includes a one year warranty. If you have any problems you can contact their customer service line. Best Sectional Patio Furniture Set U-Max 7 Piece Outdoor Set U-Max 7 Piece Outdoor Set Brand: U-Max Material: Powder Coated Steel; Waterproof Rattan; Tempered Glass Maintenance: Wipe down with wet rag Size: 7 pieces sectional seats 6 comfortably Color Options: Black; Brown; Dark Grey; Grey; Navy; Red Price: $399 Buy Now! The U-MAX 7 Piece Outdoor Set is a weatherproof furniture set that looks nice enough to have indoors as well. This rattan set combines design with durability so you can enjoy it while it holds up to the weather. It is a seven piece set that includes seating for six and an additional coffee table with a tempered glass top.  Key Features Spacious Design It includes an extra wide sofa as well as two arm chairs. You can choose to space out the chairs, making a more open seating arrangement. Or you may want to push the chairs up to the sofa, making a more intimate U shaped seating arrangement.   Premium Quality It’s made of PE Rattan woven on a powder coated steel frame. The rattan creates a protective barrier that helps keep the steel frame from getting damaged in certain sections. This helps it stand up to the weather, keeping it in good condition for longer. The glass in the coffee table is tempered as well. Comfortable The cushions are 3.9 inches thick and are offered in several different color options. You can choose the right color for your backyard patio. Weather Resistant Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. Stylish Design The design of this product makes it a beautiful option for your yard. It is designed to resemble indoor furniture with the added benefit of being able to be kept outdoors. The U-MAX 7 Piece Outdoor  Set with Cushions and Coffee Table is a great addition to any yard. It is a high quality set that marries durability with beauty. You are offered several different colors to choose from. Best Rocking Patio Furniture Set Shintenchi 3 Piece Outdoor Set Shintenchi 3 Piece Outdoor Set Brand: Shintenchi Material: Powder coated solid steel; Fabric Maintenance:. Wipe with wet rag when needed Size: Three piece set sits two Color Options: Black; Light Grey; White Price:  $120 Buy Now! The Shintenchi 3 Piece Outdoor Set is the perfect option for a couple wanting to enjoy their outdoor space together. This 3 piece set fits comfortably in an outdoor nook, or smaller patio space. The chairs are rocking chairs with built in foot rests. Let this Shintenchi outdoor bistro set make your yard more comfortable. Key Features Comfortable The two rocking chairs in this set are very comfortable, making you want to spend more time outside in your yard. The foot rests make your rocking experience more enjoyable. The breathable textile material is comfortable when used for long periods of time. This makes it great even in the heat of the summer. Space Saving Design This three piece set is perfect for an intimate setting. Their compact footprint gives you the ability to nestle them in the perfect location. The waterproof table gives you a perfect place to set your favorite beverage. Weather-Resistant It’s powder coated solid steel frame holds up to all weather, including harmful UV rays. This means it won’t rust in wet conditions

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Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas Anyone Can Use

There are many small bathroom remodel ideas that can take your home’s bathroom to a new level. Why does it have to be so hard to pick the right remodel style for your home? This article will guide you through the process of picking a remodel style, and finding the right products to make your home’s bathroom perfect. Scroll down to see the exact process for upgrading your small bathroom remodel now. Contents Introduction Picking a Bathroom Style Picking a Bathroom Color Scheme Bathroom Color Options Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 Section 7 Section 8 Introduction A successful bathroom remodel begins with good planning. You want to have a good idea of the direction you want to take this project in. It’s good to have an overall understanding of what some of your most important goals are, and what it might take to get there. You can also know that your remodel might not be exactly what you are planning when it is done. As you progress in the remodel, you might need to make some pivots along the way. Certain factors may take you in directions you don’t expect to go in. But that’s okay, because you are likely going to love the end result just as much if not more. The steps you find below are in the order they should be performed in. After you have a better understanding of the work that will be done, there are several popular bathroom styles, and everything needed for it. Picking a Bathroom Style With so many  bathroom styles to consider, it can be difficult to find the right one for you. Below are some of the more popular bathroom styles to help you pick pieces to use. Grab the parts you like from a style for your design. As you look at other styles you can pick parts you like as well.    But make sure you check the next sections in this article to learn how to make choices that will work well when in the final design. If you overlook these suggestions, you run the risk of items clashing, giving an uncomfortable feel. You and I don’t want this, so do yourself a favor and continue reading for more. Modern Bathroom Style A modern bathroom style creates minimalist feel with clean lines and updated fixtures. You want to use natural materials like wood and stone. There are some great alternatives that can be used as well. This type of bathroom has features like a walk in shower that doesn’t draw away from the overall look of the bathroom, but rather adds to it. This style is possible to achieve with many different color combinations. Some of the most popular are grey, beige, black, and white. Some of the fixture colors include brushed nickel and brass. Classic Bathroom Style A classic bathroom style incorporates high end fixtures, and ornate details. It uses neutral colors and natural materials, making it an enjoyable aesthetic for many people. This style is a good option if you are looking to improve your home’s resale value. Transitional Bathroom Style A transitional bathroom blurs the lines between multiple styles. This category is found when you pick pieces of other bathroom styles you like and bring them together in a clean way. Find fixtures that you like but work with the color scheme you decide on in the next section.  Picking a Bathroom Color Scheme A little color goes a long way. A good bathroom color scheme will transform the space, and take you to another place. There are a few guidelines to go with when picking a good color palette for a bathroom. Start off by deciding what type of mood you want to have. Choosing warm colors like reds and yellows can give you more energy. But if you want to have a more calming feel you want to look for cooler colors like blues and beige. If you are trying to make a small space feel larger you can look towards whites and grayish beige. there are several areas that the colors are used in. When you are picking out colors, think of the wall paint, vanity/countertop, and floors. It would be helpful to have a reference to look at when shopping for items in the remodel. You can pick paint swatches from the hardware store, and keep them with you when shopping for all the materials. The fixtures do not fall into these color groups. When picking fixtures like faucet, towel bars, or shower heads, you want to pick one that complements the color palette without overpowering it. Keep in mind that paint color names are not the same for different paint companies. A color at one store will not have the same name at another store. Try to distribute the colors evenly throughout the bathroom. This will give a sense of balance in the space. Look to larger surfaces like the floor, walls, and shower curtains to incorporate the colors you are choosing to work with. Rule of Two The rule of two requires one neutral color and one mid-tone.  These colors should be roughly in the same “family”. You are ultimately incorporating two different shades of the same or similar colors.  Rule of Three The rule of three says there should be three main colors in a bathroom. The most common one should be a neutral color that makes up around 70%. The mid-tone is at 20% of the bathroom’s color, with an accent color that makes up a total of 10%. The neutral color is what you choose for the walls. Some of the more common neutral colors include Crisp White, Dove Grey, or Sandy Beige. This color will make up the base of your bathroom’s colors. It should be in the same family of the mid-tone color. Pick an accent color that works with the neutral and mid-tone. It’s okay to have different shades of the same accent color. More than one can make the

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How To Install A Dimmer Switch

Knowing how to install a dimmer switch is the first part of upgrading your lighting safely and efficiently. Save yourself money by doing the work yourself, while feeling great about accomplishing such an easy upgrade. This article will guide you through the complete steps of this project. Lets get started on your dimmer switch installation now. When shopping for the right dimmer switch, you will need to know if the light you are connecting it to uses a single switch, or multiple switches. Lights that have multiple switches to turn them on and off are also called “three-way” switches. This is how you determine which option to purchase for your dimmer switch. This article below covers how to install a single-pole switch. Installing a three way switch can be a little more complicated, but is somewhat straightforward. Follow the instructions that come with the switch you purchase. Warning: Some switches also connect to the wiring in slightly different ways. That’s why it is best to read over the instructions before installing the one you have. It may hook up differently than the one I installed in this article, so make sure you have all the right information you need before going into this project. Required Tools & Materials Voltage Tester Click here Wire Strippers Click here Multi-Screwdriver Click here Electrical Tape Click here Steps to Install a Dimmer Switch You now have all the tools and materials ready for this project. When choosing your dimmer switch you want to make sure you have the right type of dimmer switch. You want to look at the amperage (amps) on the packaging. It is ideal to have a lower amp switch on a higher amp breaker. You don’t want to go the other way around. If you don’t have a switch picked out yet, take a look at my top pick below. Dimmer Switch Click here Flip Off The Breaker To This Switch This is the most important step of the project. If you are uncertain on how to do this part, take a look at the article on How To Reset A Circuit Breaker. Make sure you turn off the power to the switch you are working on. To do this you will want to first turn the light on. Then locate the breaker that controls that light. After switching it off you can begin unscrewing the switch from the box it’s in.  Any time you are working with electricity it’s best to practice extra caution. Even after I turn off the power to the switch I am working on, I will use my electrical tester to make sure there are not any live wires in the box I am working in.  To do this, remove the screws holding the switch in the box. Gently pull it out of the box enough to see all the way around it. Turn on your electrical tester, and hold it to each of the wires in the box. If it indicates there is a live wire in the box, switch off the correct breaker for that wire as well. Remove Old Switch There are two ways to do this. After you pull the switch out of the box, take a look at how much wire you have to work with. If the lengths are around 5-8 inches, you can get away with clipping them about half an inch from the screws they are attached to. Then strip the first ¾ inch of plastic cover, exposing the bare wire. Then curl the ends with the pliers in a clockwise direction. But if they are shorter like 1-3 inches you may want to go with the second option. First take pictures of how the wires are connected to the switch to use for later reference. Then unscrew the screws on the side of the switch that are holding the wires it is connected to. You will also want to straighten out the ends of the wires to get them ready for the next step.  The benefits of the first option is you will be able to check your work by seeing how the old switch was connected compared to how you connect the new one. You also will have straight ends to work with.  Connect New Switch If you are installing a single pole switch, connecting the wires is pretty straight forward. Connect like colors to like colors.  Hold the ends of the two wires you want to connect, pointed in the same direction. Twist the ends clockwise three or four times. Then put the wire nut on the wires and twist in the same direction until it feels tight.  I like taking the extra step of applying a piece of electric tape on the two wires for a bit of extra security. By wrapping the tape on both wires as well as around the wire nut, you are keeping them locked in place so they don’t come loose when you are pushing the wires back in the box. Attach Switch To Electrical Box Use the machine screws that come with the switch to attach it to the electrical box. Take care in putting all the wires back in the box while you are screwing it in. You don’t want any of the wires poking out, and it can be a tight fit. Make sure the screws are not going in at an angle. You want them to be lined up correctly so nothing gets stripped. This can be a much bigger problem that can be avoided. Flip Power Back On Now is the moment of truth. Flip the same switch you turned off earlier. This will send power back to the light you were working on. After you turn on the power you will be able to check your work. The first sign of something being wrong is the breaker will turn off automatically after you flip it on. If this is the case you need to keep it off and evaluate your connections

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Smoke Detector Placement and Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement

Proper smoke detector placement is crucial to your family’s safety. You can use a simple guideline like the one below that shows you everything you need to know about this. You want to have the right number of them installed in the correct locations. Continue reading to find out how easy it is to properly place smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Smoke alarm technology has improved tremendously over the years. There are some amazing choices on the market that can make the decision of picking the right smoke detector overwhelming. That’s why I want you to take a look at the article on Best Smoke Detectors | Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors to help you make that decision. It has a detailed “buyer’s guide” to lead you through the decision making process. Now that you have the right smoke detector for your home, it’s time to know where to install them. The first thing we will talk about is what rooms smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are placed in.  Smoke Detector Placement Room-by-Room The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, also known as NFPA 72 has some requirements that should be met to ensure maximum safety from your alarms. Although smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have different requirements, they overlap enough to be able to use a combination unit where appropriate.  Room placement for smoke detectors requires them in every bedroom, in the hallway outside the sleeping areas, and at least one on every level of the house, including basements. There must be at least one carbon monoxide alarm on every level of the house in the main living areas, including basements.  It is recommended to have a smoke detector in the kitchen area, but is not a requirement. Keep in mind that having one in the kitchen may trigger false alarms while cooking. Neither type of alarm is required in a garage or an attic space.  You do not need a carbon monoxide alarm inside the bedrooms or the kitchen. Neither alarm should be within a 6 ft radius of any appliances. ADVISED: Do not place either smoke or carbon monoxide alarms in the bathroom, as the humidity may reduce their lifespan. Smoke Detector On The Wall And Ceiling Do you put the smoke detector on the wall or the ceiling? You can put them on either surface, but there are a few distances to consider. Wall placement for a smoke detector is best if the top of the alarm is at least four inches from the ceiling. The base of it should be no more than one foot from the ceiling. The orientation does not matter, so choose what looks best to you. Smoke detector placement on the ceiling is ideal if the edge is at least 4 inches from the wall. The corners of the room are considered a dead air zone. It’s also good to have them in front of, or near to the room’s main doorway. This will help sound the alarm if any smoke from outside the room travels through the doorway. Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement Carbon monoxide detector placement is a bit different, but overlaps the smoke detector placement. This makes it possible to be able to use combination units that detect for both smoke and carbon monoxide. Wall placement for carbon monoxide detectors is at least 6 inches from the ceiling and 6 inches from the floor. If you want to install it on the ceiling you will place the edge at least 6 inches from the wall. See diagram. Interconnected Smoke Detectors Interconnected smoke detectors are those that link together in one way or another. The two main ways they connect are either through a physical wire that has been installed in the building structure, or a wifi connection that allows them to talk to one another. The benefit for having interconnected smoke detectors is they will alert individuals of the presence of smoke if they are not close to the location. All alarms will sound at the same time, giving you more time to either extinguish the source, or flee to safety. Photoelectric and Ionization Smoke Detectors There are two main types of sensors found in smoke detectors. Both photoelectric and ionization sensors will sense smoke when its present. The bottom line it would be okay for you to use either sensor type when choosing a smoke detector to purchase. That being said, each of the two sensors are better at responding to a particular type of smoke.  Disclaimer: There are no states that specifically require one or the other. Some states have building codes for new construction, or remodeled dwellings that have specific requirements when it comes to smoke and carbon monoxide sensors. For that reason it is good for you to check your local building codes before purchasing. What Are Photoelectric Smoke Detectors? Fires can be placed into two basic categories. The typical ones we think about are those that have a visible flame producing smoke. But there is another type of fire that smolders. This means it doesn’t have any flames but produces larger smoke particles. The larger particles are read more quickly by a photoelectric smoke detector. This means you will be alerted more quickly to a smoldering fire with this smoke alarm. There happens to be another type of fire that we may encounter. An ionization smoke alarm has a sensor built for these types of fires. Best Photoelectric Smoke Detector First Alert SMCO500V Install peace of mind in your home with the First Alert SMCO500V. This smoke and carbon monoxide combination alarm interconnects with other compatible First Alert alarms. That means you will be alerted as quickly as possible when smoke or carbon monoxide is detected anywhere in your home. Buy Now! What Is An Ionization Smoke Detector? There are two t When we think of fires we generally think of a visible flame that produces smoke. The smoke from these flames will typically have smaller particles that are

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How To Remodel A Bathroom

The value you get from knowing how to remodel a bathroom correctly is tremendous. Done right your home’s value will go up while getting long lasting enjoyment. Save money by doing the work yourself, while giving yourself something to be proud of. Keep reading to get a full understanding on the process of remodeling a bathroom in the right order. Every remodel has certain challenges you will need to consider. The scope of the work can vary in several different ways. The size of the budget will dictate much about the project. One example is to encourage homeowners to put some “sweat equity” into the project. This article will highlight the key stages to a complete bathroom remodel. Several stages in a bathroom remodel doesn’t require you to be an expert to do it yourself. There are other steps you will want to remove from the project schedule altogether, saving time and money. If you plan on doing any of the work yourself, take into consideration what level of skill you have working with tools. When working with power tools it’s important to not do anything that makes you uncomfortable. That being said, the only way for you to build experience is to try. We all start at the same level of expertise. If there is a stage in this project that is required, but you don’t feel comfortable tackling it yourself, look into hiring a professional. Just keep in mind this will deduct from the overall budget, and should be allocated accordingly. Read this entire article before getting started. It is designed to answer questions you may not know you have yet, but should consider. I will be discussing what goes into each stage in a bathroom remodel. After that there is a list of frequently asked questions to look at. Get your free copy of The Bathroom Remodel Cheat Packet to keep your project on track! Stages Of A Bathroom Remodel The thought of a bathroom remodel can feel like an overwhelming endeavor. That’s why it’s best to break it up into sections. The order these sections are in is how they should be tackled. But your project might not require some of them, and others might have a bit of overlap. Planning The Project (1-2 Days) This is the most important stage because it helps determine how to tackle the other stages of the project. Starting with a proper “game-plan” is the best way to make sure you stay on budget and the schedule is met, all while accomplishing everything you want to. Determine what size your budget is for the project. Also decide how you will allocate those funds, making them accessible when they are needed. Be specific with where these funds are going. This means you will be doing research on how much things cost in each stage. You may need to be creative with some of your purchases. You will want to set a schedule to work with. To do this, first have an idea of the amount of work to be done. Be as thorough as possible, and know this stage may need to be altered as the remodel progresses because of unknown circumstances. Demolition (1-2 Days) For some people this is their favorite part of the project. It’s a chance to take out some of that penned up aggression you may be harboring, lol.  You may need to do what’s called a “soft demo” based on the scope of the work being done. Limit the amount of demolition work to the specific areas being remodeled. Think about what you want to focus on, and target that.  For example, if you are changing your vanity then the whole thing can be removed. But if you want to reface it to save some money, keep it installed and remove only the specific parts that are necessary. Some bathrooms need the electrical and/or some plumbing moved. This will require you to take off some drywall. This type of demo work is a good way for you to save on your budget by doing it yourself. Wear only clothes that you don’t mind getting ruined. And use the proper personal protective equipment for the job. Safety goggles and gloves are a good start. Walls (2-4 Days) There might be a chance you will be working with the walls in the bathroom. This can mean a variety of things, anywhere from opening them up for access like mentioned above, to physically changing the layout of the room.  For the latter option you will need a great deal of knowledge in building code, and power tool use. Do not attempt this if you don’t have the necessary experience.  If walls are being moved, be sure to determine ahead of time if they are load bearing. If you don’t know how to do this consult a contractor and a residential building inspector. Redoing the layout in a bathroom by moving walls and/or plumbing are the two most expensive aspects of a bathroom remodel. Move the Plumbing (2-5 Days) There can be several reasons why you would want to move the plumbing. It might be because you want to change the placement of the sink, toilet, or bathtub/shower. There is a specialized level of skill required to work with plumbing.  There is a chance you will need to get an inspector to check the work, depending on your local code requirements and the level of work you will be doing. If you don’t know much about these requirements then I recommend talking to a professional plumber. This type of work should not be attempted by a novice without proper supervision. It may also add to your budget and schedule if you will be including a professional in your project. Rework the Electrical (2-5 Days) Electrical work is included in two phases of a bathroom remodel. In this phase you will be moving wiring for lighting or electrical outlets. The walls need to be opened for the wiring to be

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