How To Repair Screeching Faucet Problems

Screeching, whining, and squealing are some of the most annoying faucet problems in a home. Fixing them could be a challenge unless you are informed on how to repair them. photo by Randy @ The Fun Times Guide to Hombuilding

Do you have a water faucet that whines, screeches or squeals when you turn it on? There are a few reasons why this annoying little problem occurs. By the way, I love that my son is such a willing participant in front of and behind the camera. The photo you see is him, while the angle and expression were all his idea. Got to love him! Is this a DIY fix-it project for able-bodied homeowners? It most certainly is, so pay attention, y'all. There are several possible reasons why your … [Read more...]

A French Drain System Made Easy

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If you're about to install a French drain system on your property, you might want to consider a product manufactured by NDS called EZflow. It's also called EZ-Drain. I took notice of it during a visit to Home Depot recently and it piqued my interest. A French drain system allows water to flow away from residential foundations, buildings and sports complex surfaces in an unobtrusive manner via underground means. A French drain system traditionally consists of a trench, gravel and … [Read more...]

Home Water Heater Efficiency Is Increasing With Advanced Technologies

Water heater efficiency is a major deal because water heaters can be energy hogs in your home.Heating and cooling is the #1 culprit. Water heaters are typically #2 in the fuel gobbling category.So what can you do about it? Researching fuel-efficient water heaters is a great start. I'm glad you're here.  … [Read more...]

Guidelines For Water Heater Life Expectancy

Choosing a great water heater that doesn't break the bank can be tough. In a recent article I talked about choosing different types of water heaters based upon the type of fuel it takes to run them. I also mentioned how to choose the best size water heater for your home needs.Now it's time to talk about water heater life cycle costs. Choosing a water heater that saves you money in the long haul is really what it's all about. The bottom line. What will be the overall cost of your next water … [Read more...]

How To Choose The Best Energy Star Water Heater For Your Home

If you are in the market for a water heater for your home, I urge you to buy an Energy Star water heater. What do I mean when I say 'Energy Star water heater'? Simple. An Energy Star water heater is one that has met stringent energy and efficiency guidelines as stated in the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star program. These fuel efficient water heaters will save fuel, therefore, saving you money. You might even receive a rebate if the unit you purchase meets Energy Star guidelines. Are … [Read more...]

Save Money and Conserve Water At Home By Installing A Dual Flush Kit In Your Toilet

How would you like to conserve water and save money at the same time? That is inevitably what happens when you conserve water anyway, but I'd like for you to think big picture here. Think dual flush kit! Okay... that's merely a piece in the puzzle of the big picture. A slight change in something you do several times a day (flushing a toilet) will do the trick. How could that be?   What Is A Dual Flush Kit? A dual flush kit is an aftermarket plumbing device that once installed … [Read more...]

Living On The Lower End of a Townhouse Row Has a Downside – Water Leaks From Above

Are you thinking about buying or renting a townhouse in the near future? If so, listen up! This is a lesson that you don't want to learn the hard way. If you have a choice, choose to be above (higher altitude) the other tenants in the building rather than on the downslope. Why? Here's why...   … [Read more...]

Custom Shower Systems Are Hot! Hot! Hot!

Here's a "hot" bathroom trend. I'm starting to see more and more homes being built with luxury master bathroom suites equipped with custom shower systems. Makes $en$e to me. Builders know that nice kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. A HUGE custom shower room...yes...shower room surely would have a big WOW affect on potential home buyers. We happened upon a custom home with a shower room system equipped with multiple shower heads in the master retreat. Is this shower room overkill? … [Read more...]

It’s Hot Out There! Stay Cool This Summer Under An Outdoor Water Mister

I always have my camera with me when I visit my local home improvement centers. You never know what cool stuff you'll see or if you need to take a quick photo to capture dimensions, prices, etc. Today was no exception and I'm glad I had my camera. Why? They had a misting patio umbrella on display in the garden department. It's summer. I'm in Georgia. You had better believe that I made a bee-line towards it to cool off. What will they think of next??!! Want to see more of it? … [Read more...]

How Much Does It Cost To Drill A Water Well?

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How much does it cost to drill a water well on your property? That is the question I posed to Jerry Bonner, homeowner of an English cottage he built for himself and his wife last year. The home is incredible and the landscaping they installed is on par with the home.I've had several information-filled conversations with Jerry. I always have a plethora of questions for him and he responds in kind. He has decades of experience in building feature-laden custom homes for his customers and he was … [Read more...]