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

PLUG YOUR APPLIANCES INTO POWER STRIPS

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

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

REPLACE YOUR OLD LIGHT BULBS

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

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

INSTALL A LOW-FLOW SHOWERHEAD

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

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

USE A BATHMAT

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

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

TURN OFF THE WATER WHEN YOU’RE NOT USING IT

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

USE A LOW-FLOW TOILET

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

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

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

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

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

 What exactly is mold?

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

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

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

 HERE’S HOW YOU CAN GET RID OF MOLD MITES

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

Vinegar can be used to get rid of mold mites

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

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

 

MOLD MITES CAN BE FOUGHT WITH LEMON

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

BAKING SODA HELPS KILL MOLD MITES AND BLACK MOLD

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

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

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

MOLD MITE INFESTATIONS ARE COMBATED WITH TEA TREE OIL

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

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

TO KILL MOLD MITES ON WALLS, USE BORAX

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

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

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

BLEACH: A NATURAL WAY TO GET RID OF MOLD MITES

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

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

THE BEST WAY TO PREVENT MOLD AND MOLD MITES

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

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

What Do You Do When Only One Parent Needs Care?

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

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

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

CREATE A SAFER HOME WITH ACCESSIBILITY REMODELING

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

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

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

HIRE IN-HOME CAREGIVING HELP

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

BECOME A PAID FAMILY CAREGIVER

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

CONSIDER A CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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

 

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

SEARCH FOR A NURSING FACILITY CLOSE TO HOME

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

 

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

REMEMBER THAT YOU’RE DOING YOUR BEST

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

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

1.   USE A FAUCET AERATOR

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

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

2.   INSTALL AN ENERGY EFFICIENT WATER HEATER

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

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

3.   REPLACE YOUR TOILET FLAPPER AND/OR SEAL

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

4.   INSULATE HOT-WATER PIPES IN UNHEATED AREAS

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

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

5.   TURN OFF THE FAUCET WHILE BRUSHING

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

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

6.   FIX LEAKS QUICKLY TO REDUCE WASTE

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

7.   GET ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING SOLUTIONS

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

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

8.   SET UP A DUAL PLUMBING SYSTEM

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

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

 

About the Author

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

 

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

TYPES OF SLIDING DOORS

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

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

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

IMPROVE YOUR HOME WITH SLIDING DOORS

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

DIY TIPS WHEN INSTALLING SLIDING DOORS FOR YOUR HOME

CHOOSE THE LOCATION OF YOUR NEW SLIDING DOOR

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

CONSIDER USING MULTIPLE

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

CHECK YOUR LOCAL CODES FOR INSTALLATION

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

BEYOND SLIDING DOORS

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

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

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

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

Guest Contributor: Andrew Adams