How To

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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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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How To Install A Garbage Disposal

  If you don’t know how to install a garbage disposal, it would feel practically impossible. The truth is you don’t need any special tools to install one. In fact, this article will show you that anybody who knows a few DIY basics can install it in about an hour. Read this article to get a hassle-free guide on how to install a garbage disposal. There are many garbage disposals to choose from. If you haven’t decided on one for your home yet, then I am going to recommend the Insinkerator Badger 1 model. It is ⅓ horsepower, which is plenty of power for your home’s kitchen. Click the link below to take a look at it. Installing a garbage disposal is easier than you might think. This article is going to show you how to install one if you have electrical power under your sink. There are two forms this power can come in. The first is for there to be a power outlet that is available under the cabinet. The second is for it to have a hardline connection directly to the garbage disposal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hw_QrOkY7P8 Equipment The tools for this job are common to most households. If you are someone who wants to do more projects around your home it’s a good idea to purchase these for yourself. If you won’t be doing much work like this in the future you may be able to borrow them from a friend or family member. Insinkerator is a brand of garbage disposals that has high ratings. They come in multiple models that are great for different circumstances. Below is the one I installed, and if you would like to check it out you can click on the link. The equipment for this project is found in the part it is used in. I recommend taking a look at the tools and equipment ahead of time and gathering the ones you need. There is a chance you may not need the item depending on your circumstance. For instance, the hacksaw might not be needed if you are replacing an existing garbage disposal with a new one of the exact same model.  Garbage Disposal Click here How To Install a Garbage Disposal in a Double Sink The steps outlined here include how to install a garbage disposal with and without a dishwasher. If you have a dishwasher connected to your existing garbage disposal, you will follow the steps outlined below for that. If there is no dishwasher connected, skip those steps. Turn Off The Power The first step for any job that you are working on anything that has electricity running to it is to turn off the power at the breaker box. You can get a complete overview of this process by visiting the article on How To Reset A Circuit Breaker. This can be easy if you have a well labeled panel. But if it isn’t labeled very well it might be a guessing game. Test if the power is off before you make any assumptions. The easiest way to do this is to flip on the switch for the garbage disposal. It is safe to begin if it doesn’t come on. Remember to flip it off though, because you don’t want the new garbage disposal to turn on when you turn the power back on. This is also the right time to remove any products that are in the way. Find a place to put as many of them as possible. You want to have as much working space as you can. For the installation. Disconnect The Old Garbage Disposal There will be two screws attached to the discharge pipe. Back those out all the way and set them aside. If there is a dishwasher attached to the disposal this is a good time to remove the hose that attaches it. To do this turn the screw on the pipe clamp counterclockwise until the clamp is loose. Then pull the connection off the garbage disposal. There are also three screws facing upward just beneath the sink. Loosen each of these about half way. If you use a screwdriver for two of them, the third should be able to loosen by hand. You want to back them out enough to lift the bottom of the bracket up towards the sink.  Once these screws are loose and the drain pipe is disconnected from the garbage disposal, hold the bracket steady with one hand and twist the garbage disposal to the left with the other. This should pop it loose.  Multi-Screwdriver Click here After it is movable, take a flat screwdriver to pop off the metal ring that is holding the pieces of this bracket together. To do this first slide all the parts upwards towards the sink. This will allow the ring to be visible. While holding them up with one hand, use a flat screwdriver in your other hand to slide the ring downward. It should pop off pretty easily. Once you have this ring out all the pieces of the bracket should be able to be removed. There is one piece that will need to be slid upwards into the sink. After the sink is cleared you will want to wipe any leftover plumbers putty away from the hole. Remove The Electrical Cord Wire Strippers Click here Is the garbage disposal plugged into a wall outlet, or is it hardlined in? If it’s plugged in you can simply pull the plug out and the garbage disposal will be free to move. You will need to attach a power cord to the new garbage disposal, and may need to reuse the old cord. Both methods are the same from this point on. If it is hard lined in, you will need to remove the wires before you can lift the disposal away.  To do this simply turn the disposal upside down, or lay it on it’s side with the bottom facing you (whichever one is easier for you). There

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Best Air Purifier

What Is The Best Air Purifier For Home?

There are a few things that are important to consider when looking for the best air purifier. You want to find the right one for your home’s situation. Maybe you need one that will efficiently remove pet hair. Or perhaps you want one that offers a washable filter. No matter what your situation is, This article will show you what the right air purifier is for you. Air purifiers are designed with several different features that can make them desirable for different circumstances. Below is a list of the top categories for you to pick from. Contents Air Purifier Buyer’s Guide Best Air Purifier For Home Overall Best Smart Air Purifier Best Air Purifier For Allergies Best Air Purifier For Pets Best Air Purifier For Mold Best Air Purifier For Smoke Best Air Purifier With Washable Filter Air Purifier Buyer’s Guide A good air purifier has so many benefits. It will produce a clean air environment in your home or workplace. It can reduce the amount of airborne pathogens that can cause illness. These are a couple of benefits that come with having a filter for your air. There are other features found on the air purifier unit that you may like (or dislike). Below is an incomplete list of air purifier features that are worthy of consideration. Types Of Filtration Believe it or not there are more than one filtration styles the air purifier may boast. Mechanical filtration is the physical removal of airborne particulates like dust. A good one to consider is a HEPA air filter because it is capable of removal of particlulates down to 0.3 microns in diameter. Carbon filtration is a chemical filtration model that is designed to remove fowl odors and other smells from the air. This is designed to neutralize any odors from the air by absorbing them in the carbon filter. These filters will need to be replaced as they get used. Ultra violet (UV) sterilization uses a special type of light bulb to kill airborne viruses and bacteria. As air moves past the UV light, the pathogens get “zapped” and end up dying. UV light is an effective filtration, but has the byproduct of ozone (O3). This can become unhealthy to us, so for this reason it is wise to run the UV sterilizer for limited amounts of time. These are not all types of filters, but the three most common types. Not all models have each of these filtration types. There are some with one filtration style, and some have multiple. Choose a model that best suits your needs. Noise Levels Noise level is a function of how loud the fan is when the purifier is turned on. It is rated on a decibels (dB) which is a unit of sound level. The typical air purifier can fall into a noise level range of approximately 20 to 70 dB. The low end of that range is near the low end of human hearing. That would be something similar to leaves rustling in the wind. At the high end of this range would be something like a vacuum cleaner. The reason why this category would effect your decision is if the air purifier is in a quiet room or somewhere you want to have comfortable conversations, you would want one closer to the low end of this. One factor that adds to an air purifier’s noise level is the fan speed. Fan Speed Fan speed lets you set the air purifier’s fan to different different speed levels. There may be different situations that you would want to use a higher or lower speed level. If you are away from the home for a little while, you may want the purifier to be on a higher speed.  But if you are home, and the purifier is in your bedroom while you are sleeping it’s better to have it on a low, more quiet speed. Choose an air purifier that offers the right variety of speeds for you to choose from. A good number to look for is three or more speed options. Room Size It is ideal to have an air purifier that turns over the volume of the room it’s in one time an hour. It is fine if it moves more than one time the volume in that amount of time, but you may need to compromise in some ways.  For instance, in order to have a higher volume move through the air purifier, you will need to turn the fan speed up. This in turn produces a higher noise level that may be more irritating.  Look for an air purifier that moves the volume of air in the location you want to use it in once an hour. You may not need to have it move that fast while you are sleeping.  Best Air Purifier For Home Overall LEVOIT Air Purifier LEVOIT Air Purifier Dimensions: 8.7″ x 8.7″ x 14.2″h Filtration Type: 3-in-1 filter Noise Level:  24 dB Fan Speed: Multiple speed options Room Size: 1095 Sq Ft Replacement Filter: Yes Washable Pre-Filter: No Warranty: 2 years Price:  $99.99 Buy Now! Replacement Filter The LEVOIT Air Purifier is a compact unit with some powerful features. It boasts multiple filters that efficiently filter out even some of the smallest airborne particles. You practically won’t notice it when used it an any room of your house, day or night. This model has even more key features that make it a great choice in air purifiers for you to get for your home.  Key Features Multiple Filter Choices Choose between multiple filter options, giving you the perfect filter for your needs. If you have pets that shed, use the Core 300 (yellow) air filter to purify the air and help you breath better. During wildfire smoke season, the Core 300s (green) filter will help bring the air quality in your home to a healthy level. There is another filter available for everyday circumstances as well. Whisper Quiet Option Run the air filter in whisper

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How To Install A Light Fixture

Learning how to install a light fixture is easy for you to learn. Save money by not having to hire an expensive handyman anymore. When you are done with this project, you will be enjoying your work every day. Lets get started with installing a new light fixture quickly and easily. Safety Safety Glasses Click here It’s important to have a good pair of safety goggles whenever you are doing work above yourself. There is a risk something might fall in your eyes. A small piece of debris may come down when you take down the old light fixture, or doing some of the work that you don’t want in your eyes. Therefore it’s important to put on some safety goggles that fit comfortably.  The only other piece of recommended safety equipment is a pair of work gloves. These may not be easy to use for parts of this project because you need some dexterity that the gloves can take away. Switch The Breaker Off Voltage Tester Click here This step is by far the most important. Turning off the power at the breaker will allow you to work safely, without any worry of electric shock. Find out more information about the topic How To Reset A circuit Breaker.  This article will explain to you all you need to know when switching a breaker at the breaker box. Learn what to look for at the box when the breaker is tripped. Switch the tripped breaker back on safely and efficiently. It’s easier to tell which breaker your light is on if you have someone who can stand in the room and tell you when the power is off. Now you can use the voltage detector to be certain the power is shut off. It’s better to be redundant than sorry, especially when working with electricity. You also need to realize you won’t have the luxury of using the light in the room. For this reason, you may want to install the light fixture in the daytime. This will hopefully allow enough daylight through the window for you to work comfortably.   If there isn’t enough natural light in the room, you can fix this problem by plugging in a lamp in a room with power using an extension cord. Pro Tip: If looking for the right breaker, you can plug in something like a radio into an outlet that is on that circuit. Turn the radio on and turn the volume up high enough to hear it from the breaker box. When you switch the correct one off, the radio will switch off, letting you know in real time. Remove Old Light Fixture Wire Stripper Click here Multi-Screwdriver Click here Now you can remove the old lamp from the ceiling. The main tool for this is a screwdriver, but a wire stripper with a built in wire cutter is also helpful.  Each ceiling lamp is different, but it’s not hard to figure out how to remove it. The main thing to start with is the lamp shade. Some of the common ways to remove them is a thumb screw, or they may twist off.  Once the shade is off you want to take the bulbs out and put them in a place they won’t get broken. Use the screwdriver to remove the machine screws holding it to the ceiling.  To disconnect the fixture from the ceiling, you can twist off the wire nuts and disconnect it that way. Another option is to use the wire cutter on your wire stripper to snip the wires just above the wire nuts.  Disclaimer: Only cut the wires in the ceiling if there is enough length to strip the ends, and be able to work on them. If you believe the lengths might be too small to easily work on, try to twist the wires to disconnect them instead. Make sure you have wire that’s long enough before they get cut. Attach The New Light Fixture Electrical Tape Click here When attaching the wires, make sure you are connecting the white wire from the fixture to the white wire in the  ceiling. Some ceilings may have a piece of different color wire that is not white. The white wire is neutral, and the black (or other color) wire is hot.  Connect the copper grounding wire in the fixture to the copper wire coming out of the ceiling using a wire nut. If there is no grounding wire in your ceiling, but your light fixture has a mounting bracket with a green screw in it, you can connect the wire to this screw. If that is not present you can fold the grounding wire up and stick it aside. Hold the two black wires together and twist in a clockwise direction. Then take a wire nut that comes with your new light fixture and twist it onto these wires in the same direction. Do this step with the white wire as well.  Switch The Breacker On Go ahead and turn your breaker back on at this point. You want to do this before installing the light cover. This gives you less items to remove if one of the previous steps wasn’t done correctly. If your light fixture is not LED, now is when you would put the light bulbs in. If you turn on the light switch and it doesn’t come on, that means one or both of your wires are not installed correctly. Turn the breaker off and take the fixture back off. If you turn on the light switch and it comes on you can put the lamp shade on according to the directions that came with your light fixture. Conclusion And now you have successfully installed a new light fixture. You can enjoy your work while deciding what room is next to get a new light. As you can see this job wasn’t that hard. As long as you follow all the steps completely, you can rest assured the light will be installed

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How To Install A Door | Prehung And Slab Door Installation Instructions

You want to install a new interior door, but don’t know where to begin. You want to know how hard this project will be, or if you should tackle it at all. The good news is this is a job for anyone who has the right tools and a will to learn. Keep reading for a complete set of instructions on installing a door in your home. Measuring For The Door Size Tape Measure Click here There are a few things to look for when determining what the right replacement door is for you. We will cover how to properly measure what size door you need to purchase. But first let’s talk a bit about a door’s handing. Prehung vs Slab Door There are two options of what type of door you want to choose. You can either install a prehung door, or a slab. A prehung door is a door that is connected to a frame, also known as the jamb. The benefit of this is the jamb and hinges were attached at the factory, and you know the door will open and close well when installed. A slab is the door with no hinges or anything else attached. You would choose this option if your jamb is in good condition and you want to save it. A slab door is more affordable than a prehung. It takes more work to install, and requires other tools. Prehung Door Installation Cost If you go the route of hiring a professional door installer, you can expect to pay between $200-$600 USD. This rate should include the labor and door cost. The rate may change based on the amount of work your installation requires. Slab door installation requires more work than prehung door installation. Prices may vary based on your location. Two Methods Of Installing A Prehung Interior Door Let’s talk about the two ways of installing an interior door. They vary on the types of fasteners you will use. You can install your door with either finishing nails, or screws. This article will talk about both of these methods, and the accompanying video shows you exactly how to complete either method. Safety and Required Materials Safety Glasses Click here Wood Shims Click here Why Would I Use Nails Vs Screws To Install A Door? These are two methods that will successfully install the door. There are reasons to pick one over the other because they both have their pros and cons. The reasons why you might choose one over the other are very different.  Choosing Nails To Install A Door Claw Hammer Click here Finish Nail Click here Nail Set Click here Wood Filler Click here Pro Tip: Mix sawdust from the dust collecter in your power sander with some wood glue to quickly make some wood filler. This is a great method if you don’t have any on hand, and are in need of a solution. Using nails to install a door is typically because it has a wood jamb that will not be painted. You want to salvage the wood look, and don’t want to have an obvious screw head that looks ugly.  A finish nail is the right choice in this circumstance because it is easy to hide the head. To do this you will first hammer the nail down to where it’s close to the jamb, but not flush with it. Be careful while hammering because you don’t want to miss the head of the nail, and damage the wood. Take careful, and accurate strokes while hammering. Once you have the nail about one to two head widths above the jamb, you can use the nail set to set the head below the surface of the wood. Hold the end of the nail set firmly in the cup on the head of the nail. With your other hand you can pull back on the other end, extending the spring out. While being careful not to remove the end of the set from the head of the nail, quickly let go of the other end, allowing it to tap the head of the nail down. You may need to do this several times until the head of the nail is below the surface of the jamb.  It’s okay if you miss and puncture a hole in the jamb. These holes can be filled with wood filler in the next step after all the nails are set in place. You want to choose finishing nails that are at least 2 inches long. This can vary, but you want them to be around that length to be sure they reach through the gap between the door jambs and the wall studs. The head of the finishing nails can be sunken into the jamb and covered with wood filler. You can use nails for any style door, where the screws are for a more specific application. Nails are easy to hammer in, but might be a little more tricky when you are trying to make the door plumb and level. That means when you are installing the door you need to adjust the jamb both vertically and horizontally until it’s level.  Choosing Screws To Install A Door Drill Driver Set Click here Drill Bit Set Click here Wood Screw Click here NOTE: Screw should be the “flat head” style screws. They do not need to be Phillips, as there are other options available. Square drive screws are easiest to screw in, and are less likely to slip out of the bit. Make sure you have the correct style and size drill bit for the screw you are using. Using screws, in my opinion, is the better option. It is much easier to tighten them the right amount, while also adjusting the shims as needed. Set the clutch on the drill to the right setting so it will stop tightening the screw once it’s reached the perfect depth.  One difference with using screws is yo will want to drill a pilot

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