Organization in the Bathroom

Small bathroom or big bathroom, everyone needs organization in their bathroom. I’m a big fan of clutter free bathrooms. Here is a small list of ideas to organize your bathroom and get rid of the clutter.

CABINET UNDER THE SINK

Containers to put under your sink.
Shelves- metal, wood, or plastic.
Storage baskets.
Drawer organizer.
Hooks for behind the cabinet door- for curling irons, flat irons, or any other type of hair iron.
Glass containers.

ABOVE THE TOILET

Install Shelves- glass, wood, metal.
Small Wicker Baskets mounted onto the wall.
Pretty Wood Crate mounted onto the wall.
Wall Cabinet mounted onto the wall.

ABOVE THE DOOR

Yes, look up. That whole area above the bathroom door is unused real estate.

Add a shelve- wood or metal.

TOILET PAPER

Baskets
Cabinets
Concealed and hidden from sight

Putting everything away and having it concealed will make you feel better.

Indoor Spring Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

We all clean our homes on a regular bases. After having all our windows closed through out most of Fall and Winter we have to go the extra mile to clean and maintain everything. All that dust that builds up from having everything closed. Certain stuff not being used over Winter, we have to make sure it’s working properly.

The first thing you have to do, is open every single window. Let that fresh air in. Now turn some music on and let’s go down the list.

Clean or replace your furnace filters
Test your air conditioning system(don’t wait till it gets too hot to see if it’s working).
Check caulking around all windows and doors. Improper caulking allows for moisture to get inside your walls and can cause mold.
Replace screens on your windows if they are torn or broken.
Clean your windows, inside and outside.
Test your smoke and fire detector, replace batteries if needed. Dust the inside and outside.
Check your fire extinguisher.
Clean your ceiling fan with a wet rag.
Rotate your ceiling fan so it’s spinning counter clock wise for Summer.
Clean out your fridge and freezer. Place a new box of baking soda in the back to maintain freshness.
Check for pest problems, you might look into calling someone to spray before the warmer months.
Organize your closets, put away Winter clothes and bring out the Spring and Summer clothes.
Clean your walls, sponge and water, or a wet rag. Dust builds up on your walls, especially during Fall and Winter.
Dust and reorganize your book shelves. Move your books around, place some vertically, and some horizontally.
Wipe down all your light bulbs.
Wash your shower curtain. Replace the inside liner. You can buy the inside liner for a buck or two. They tent to get moldy quickly.
Clean your bathroom walls, having your fan on during and after showers isn’t enough. Mold grows, you have to prevent it.
Soak your shower head in vinegar and lemon for half an hour or longer if you please. Minerals tend to build up in it.
Vacuum mattress and box spring.
Dust off all vents.
Clean out the dryer ducts.

If it seems like your in need of a Plumber, Electrician, Heating and AC Repairman, or a General Handyman give them a call. Don’t wait to the last second. Trust us, you’ll be glad that you took care of things before they got bad.

If you have any questions or concerns, email or call me.

Kevin Szabo Jr

Plumbing and Sewer

(708)845-7922

kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

PURIFIED WATER AT YOUR CONVENIENCE

Water is the number one natural resource in the world. We use it in our daily lives. We drink it, cook with it, bathe with it, and use it in our everyday function. We can’t live without water. Americans are fortunate enough to have potable water in our homes. The water purification plants do everything possible to bring clean water to our homes. They add chlorine to try to clean it up, but as much as they try to clean it, they could only do so much. Tap water is full of chlorine, lead, bacteria, hormones, and drug-by-products.The average person shouldn’t be consuming tap water without a filter.

American families have grown accustomed to drinking bottled water at home. It’s healthier, cleaner, taste better and not full of chemicals, which is the reason why nobody wants to drink tap water. But bottled water ends up costing a fortune and is harmful to the environment. Plastic bottles are polluting our planet. We have recycling centers all over, but unfortunately, not everyone recycles. Plastic bottles, end up every where. Most plastic bottles take 450 years to decompose. And not all plastic bottles are recyclable. Which makes you think!

Clean purified water at your convenience should be something to look into. Water purification systems will save your health, the environment, and of course money in the long run. Here at Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing, we suggest a whole house water purification system. This way your entire house has clean, purified water. You will notice the difference right away. It’s understandable if you can’t make that purchase right now. At least invest in a under sink water filter. This way, your family has clean drinking and cooking water.

If you have any questions about water filtration systems for your home, please email or call me.

This is the Story of How I Ended Up Setting My Marshmallow Peeps On Fire

Local Orland Park Plumber Hates Marshmallow Peeps

MY HATE FOR MARSHMALLOW PEEPS

Once a upon a time, in a far far land called Orland Park, a local Plumber‘s son threw his Easter Marshmallow Peeps on the floor after deciding he didn’t want them anymore. The stickiness of the peeps completely aggravated him. They taste like crap, they don’t do anything, and his son doesn’t even want to play with them, “What does one do with a Peep?” asked the Plumber. After short research the Plumber realized that Peeps aren’t good for anything, he decided to get rid of them.

He first tried to throw them down the sink:

Since the sink drain was too small, he went for something bigger, the tub. “Surely, the tub drain will work” said, the Plumber.

The tubs drain failed the Peeps big time. The toilet always works for everything people flush down. “We get calls for kids toys all the time. Toys, keys, phones, clothing objects, chicken bones, and gold fish. Marshmallow Peeps should be a piece of cake.” said the Plumber. Without hesitating the Plumber threw the Peeps down the toilet.

What do I have to do to get these Peeps to just disappear? “I’m guessing they are ducks or bird like things, if I set them free they will go away” thought the Plumber. Frustrated with the Peeps, the Plumber packed the Peeps bags and took them for a little stroll down to the pond.

The Plumber threw the Peeps in the pond and wished them well. “Have a nice life” said the Plumber, as he walked away.

The Plumber happily went back to working, he had already wasted enough time trying to get rid of the Peeps, but was glad he finally set them where they belonged. Some time later, the Plumber walked past the pond and noticed the Peeps weren’t in the water. They were perched above the pond, soaking in all the sun. He didn’t understand, “How could the Peeps emerge from the water?” asked the Plumber.

The Plumber couldn’t take it anymore. He was angry. He didn’t want anything to do with these Peeps. The Plumber threw the Peeps in the fire pit and set it on fire.

“Yesss” yelled the Plumber. Finally, the Peeps gave up and melted away. The Plumber should have felt defeat over his victory, but all he felt was remorse. “What did the Peeps ever do to me?” said the Plumber. “It’s not their fault they taste bad, are sticky, and plain useless”. The Plumber ran to the store to purchase a box of Marshmallow Peeps, but they were sold out. Heartbroken, the Plumber promised to never take advantage of a Peep again.

**No one was hurt during the process of this article, besides a Plumbers heart**

www.kevinszabojrplumbing.net

Valentine’s Day Present Ideas From A Plumber

Local Plumber Helps Out With Shopping

It’s that time of year when everyone who has a love interest is scrambling, trying to figure out how to say “I Love You” with a present. I for one, am horrible at it. For a change, let’s try to shop around for ideas.

If you have several thousand dollars to spend, remodel your wife’s bathroom. Nothing says “I Love You” like a brand new feminine bathroom. Contact your local bathroom remodeler. Go over what you have in mind and budget. Surprise your love one with a one of a kind custom Valentine’s Day Bathroom. This way you’ll remind your wife that everyday is Valentine’s day.

On a more realistic note: you don’t have to spend a lot of money to show your love how much you love and care about him or her.

Most people shower everyday. How about a waterfall and massager? This state of the art Shower Panel Rain Style System will run you $277 with free shipping on Amazon. It has really good reviews, with just one very unhappy customer.

Next on my list that your love would appreciate is, heated toilet seat with night light. Brondell L60-EW LumaWarm Heated Nightlight Elongated Toilet Seat for $119 with free shipping. When you live in Chicago and our weather is inconsistent, you need heated toilet seats. The night light is a perk. I did try to find it cheaper, but it seems nobody wants to let go of their heated toilet seat and night light.

Some people like relaxing in their tubs or jacuzzi. I personally, just want to sleep in it. For those of you who actually like drinking, reading, or using your phone while laying in the tub, this is the perfect gift. Bamboo Bathtub Caddy Tray for $79.99.

A hunter usually doesn’t care about decorating their bathroom, they are too busy enjoying the outdoors. If you were to present him or her with this toilet seat decal, they’d know that you finally understand them. This beautiful Elk Bull toilet seat decal for $18.99, shipping is not included. It brings a little enjoyment to a boring setting. The only thing that worries me is, they will want to redecorate the entire bathroom into something like this. Which I love!

Ladies, if you have a extra bathroom in your home, let your man decorate it to his liking. This way, he will always keep your main bathroom clean and it’s his responsibility to clean “his” bathroom. While you are at it, buy him a Motion Activated Toilet Night Light on sale on Amazon for $19.99 with free shipping.

I’m going to let you in on a secret, most people love a warm towel when they step out of the shower. My wife, use to warm my towel up all the time. She doesn’t anymore, since she is too busy running around after our son. For only $105.99 with free shipping, I could get my own personal towel warmer. This is an amazing gift. On the card, you could sign it “Wishing You Warm Thoughts”. Yes it’s cheesy but at least you will be warm when you step out of the shower.

I love reading in the bathroom. If you have a partner who loves golf, you need to purchase a Golf Potty Putting Game. It’s on sale for $14.97 with free shipping, regularly $29.95. You could practice while taking care of business.

Lastly, if you really like your wife, just buy her diamonds or give her your wallet. She deserves it. We forget how much our women do for us. Work, take care of the kids, take care of us, the house, cooking, everything else that is needed in our lives and still have time to love us. Make sure to come home with flowers on Valentine’s Day. Who cares how you feel about Valentine’s Day, just show your partner that you care and love them.

WHAT DOES A PLUMBER DO?

plumb·er [pluhm-er]
noun
1. a person who installs and repairs piping, fixtures, appliances, and appurtenances in connection with the water supply, drainage systems, etc., both in and out of buildings.
2. Slang. an undercover operative or spy hired to detect or stop leaks of news or secret information, often using questionable or illegal methods, as illegal entry or wiretapping.
3. Obsolete . a worker in lead or similar metals.

What is a plumber?

A trades person who specializes in installing and maintaining systems used for potable (drinking) water, sewage, and drainage in plumbing systems.

When ever someone thinks of a plumber they generally think of Super Mario. Big mustache, overalls, and a pipe in hand on their way to fix a toilet. People think of a plumber as someone who you call when your toilet is not working. They tend to forget that plumbers cover so much in their home or business.

Things you probably didn’t know they work on…

Hot Water Heaters
Sewer Lines
Gas Lines
Water Softeners
Flooding

Rule of thumb, if it has a pipe, call a plumber
Plumbers….

build and repair water supply lines
build and repair sewerage to all types of buildings
work on main line stoppages
repair or replace valves
work on and install water heaters
install tubs and showers

Some needed skills, interests, and values that plumbers need

Reading drawings, and specifications to determine layout of water supply, waste, and venting systems
Detecting faults in plumbing appliances and systems, and correctly diagnosing their causes
Installing, repairing and maintaining domestic, commercial, and industrial plumbing fixtures and systems
Locating and marking positions for pipe connections, passage holes, and fixtures in walls and floors
Measuring, cutting, bending, and threading pipes using hand and power tools or machines
Joining pipes and fittings together using soldering techniques, compression fittings, threaded fittings, and push-on fittings.
Testing pipes for leaks using air and water pressure gauges
Awareness of legal regulations and safety issues
Ensuring safety standards and build regulations are met.

Plumbers protect the health of the nation!

Kevin Szabo Jr.

708-845-7922

kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

TIPS ON REMODELING YOUR BATHROOM

Times are hard, but we are all trying to make due. Some of us have a little extra money here and there that we have been saving up to remodel our bathroom. Two important places that you should invest on is your kitchen and your bathroom. It increases the value of your home and it feels good to have a nice bathroom.

It is important to know the budget before remodeling your bathroom, what is your budget? How much money can you afford for yourbathroom remodel? Once you figure out your budget going down your list will be easier.

Ask around for bathroom ideas. Ask friends, family, or coworkers. Look through home magazines. Go online and search whats new and hip. You might have a theme in mind, but it won’t hurt to look around. They always have new looks and as you get older your taste changes. Make sure you look at everything before you choose what style you want to go with.

Do you want to keep the same bathroom layout? Or can you afford to change/move things around?
Do you want a shower, tub, or both? Is your bathroom big enough to fit both? If you are getting a tub, make sure you sit in the tub before you buy it. Who cares if people are looking, get in that tub and make sure you are happy sitting inside of it. Is it deep enough? Is it comfortable? Are you going to have someone else join you in this tub?
What kind of vanity do you want? This goes with what style or theme you are going with. Traditional, modern, luxurious, crisp & clean, elegant, romantic, etc.
After you figure out the vanity, the sink is easier to pick out.
Pick out a bathroom floor, remember you have to clean it, make sure it’s something easy to clean. Pick something that works with your look, price, durability, and cleaning.
Toilet is a must have. Do you want something with gadgets, fancy, or something comfortable that you’ll enjoy reading the paper in the morning. We spend lots of time sitting on the toilet, make sure you like what you pick.
Wall colors, what kind of colors do you have in mind? Painting is a must. It will liven up your bathroom.
Lighting. Depending on your budget, you should spend on lighting. If your budget is limited, you should make it a point to work on the lighting.
Plumbing fixtures. Don’t be cheap on your plumbing fixtures. Do your research, and spend some money on your fixtures. Cheap fixtures don’t last as long.
If you are getting a curtain rod for your shower or tub, make sure you get a nice shower curtain. Depending on the size of the bathroom, it is one of the first things you notice when you walk it.

Everyone’s bathroom is different. Some bathrooms have not been updated in a long time, others have horrible plumbing, and the lucky ones only need a few touch ups to update the look. Whether you are planning on doing it yourself, have your friends help you, or call a professional, remember it doesn’t hurt to call a plumber to give you an estimate. A plumbercan walk you through what the bathroom needs or even give you new ideas that you didn’t think could fit in there. They can always work with your budget. Good luck and happy remodeling.

Kevin Szabo Jr

Plumbing and Sewer

www.kevinszabojrplumbing.net

(708)845-7922

kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

TEACHING YOUR KIDS ABOUT BASIC PLUMBING

At an early age kids are fascinated with water, toilets, and everything else they can get their hands on. As soon as you turn your back on your kid, they have their hands down the toilet splashing that water with a giant smile on their face. You can’t help but laugh along with them, even though you have to explain to them that they can’t do that.

We have to explain to our kids theimportance of plumbing. Teaching our children that plumbing follows the basic laws of nature, gravity, pressure, water seeking it’s own level might seem like a lot but they understand. Kids are very smart. That’s why they are always trying to flush their toys, your keys, loads of paper towels, loose change, and stuffed animals down the toilet. They understand that if they put it in there and flush it will disappear into another dimension.

They have to be taught that it’s not magic. It might be fun, but it will cause a lot of damage to your pipes and to your pockets. Kids have to understand that their health depends on aproperly functioning plumbing system. They need to use the toilet, they need for everything to drain and not be backed up. They need safe drinking water coming into the house, they need clean water to shower and clean up with. Without it we would be living back in the stone ages.

At a early age they should know not to flush:

Toys- Yes Aqua Man can swim, but he can stay in the bathtub
Wipes- baby wipes, cleaning wipes, even wipes that say “flushable”
Q-Tips- they are skinny, but it can cause obstruction in the pipes
Diapers- when kids are learning to potty train, they think it’s ok to take off that diaper and put it in the toilet. Big No!

For kids who are old enough to help you with the dishes:

Don’t dispose of grease, bones, stringy vegetables, corn husks, potato peels, pasta, or any anything starchy down the garbage disposal.
Explain to them that they should properly clean the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher.

When they are old enough to be left home alone:

They should know how to shut the water off to the entire house if there is anemergency leak
Plunge the toilet
Plunge the sink

We have to teach our kids to be independent, strong and able to handle simple plumbing issues.

If you have any questions or concerns email or call me

Kevin Szabo Jr

(708)845-7922

kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

Things Every Woman Should Know How To Repair Around Their Home

It’s 2014, men should still be gentlemen and fix whatever needs to be fixed and handle any other home repair that needs to be done. In general, women can handle most home repair tasks without asking their husbands, or significant others to do it for them. I know for a fact that they can do a lot more than we ever give them credit for. Some women know how to fix stuff better than we do, but leave the home repair up to us just because they know they can. My significant other always tackles any home repair issue without asking for help because she enjoys the feeling and knows how to do it. It honestly makes me proud. We always want to be there, but in case we aren’t we want our women to know how to do these things.

Things Every Woman Should Know How To Repair

Fix a leaky faucet
Plunge a toilet
Fix the belt on a vacuum
Change a light fixture
Tighten the shower head
Change the filter in the furnace
Light the pilot on the water heater
Reset a circuit breaker
Change a tire(I know this is not home repair, but more people should know how to do this)
Install or repair a door knob or lock
Patch a hole in the wall
Take apart the sink p-trap

Tools you should always have at home

Power drill
Hammer
Screw driver set
Wrench
Channel locks
Scissors
Pliers
Level
Measuring Tape
Flash light
Staple gun
Wood saw

Foot Note: There is a lot of men out there that don’t know how to do any home repair and have to have a woman show them. This post isn’t meant as an insult towards women in any way shape or form.

Please visit our website www.kevinszabojrplumbing.net

If you have any issues or concerns call or email

Kevin Szabo Jr
(708)845-7922
kevinszabojrplumbing@yahoo.com

INDOOR SPRING CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

The first thing you have to do, is open every single window. Let that fresh air in. Now turn some music on and let’s go down the list.

Clean or replace your furnace filters
Test your air conditioning system(don’t wait till it gets too hot to see if it’s working).
Check caulking around all windows and doors. Improper caulking allows for moisture to get inside your walls and can cause mold.
Replace screens on your windows if they are torn or broken.
Clean your windows, inside and outside.
Test your smoke and fire detector, replace batteries if needed. Dust the inside and outside.
Check your fire extinguisher.
Clean your ceiling fan with a wet rag.
Rotate your ceiling fan so it’s spinning counter clock wise for Summer.
Clean out your fridge and freezer. Place a new box of baking soda in the back to maintain freshness.
Check for pest problems, you might look into calling someone to spray before the warmer months.
Organize your closets, put away Winter clothes and bring out the Spring and Summer clothes.
Clean your walls, sponge and water, or a wet rag. Dust builds up on your walls, especially during Fall and Winter.
Dust and reorganize your book shelves. Move your books around, place some vertically, and some horizontally.
Wipe down all your lightbulbs.
Wash your shower curtain. Replace the inside liner. You can buy the inside liner for a buck or two. They tent to get moldy quickly.
Clean your bathroom walls, having your fan on during and after showers isn’t enough. Mold grows, you have to prevent it.
Soak your shower head in vinegar and lemon for half an hour or longer if you please. Minerals tend to build up in it.
Vacuum mattress and box spring.
Dust off all vents.
Clean out the dryer ducts.