Dual Flush Toilet Kits Save Water and Money

Dual Flush toilets are becoming more and more common in new construction. These toilets can perform a full flush, or a flush with half of the amount of water. In most cases, a half-flush is all that is needed to keep the toilet bowl clean. A new dual flush toilet can be expensive and require professional installation, but if you are looking to save water you can install a dual flush retrofit kit on your existing toilet.

These dual flush kits are generally easy to install and fit most existing toilets. Even if you decide to have the kit professionally installed, it will be significantly less expensive than a new dual flush toilet. Dual flush kits allow you to select the amount of water for flushing – 0.8 gallon for a lighter flush and 1.6 gallons when you need more power. Of course, your savings will vary depending on how many people are using the toilet, and how often – basically, how many times is the toilet flushed?

Estimates of how many gallons are saved using a dual flush toilet kit vary widely – from 1,600 gallons per year to 40,000 gallons per year. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that toilets account for 30% of the water used in the home, and that switching an older toilet to a dual flush or other water efficient toilet can save a family of four an average of $2,000 on water bills over the life of the fixture. That’s not a bad return on a minimal investment of time and money.

Celebrate the Season Safely

The holiday season can be a time to express yourself with beautiful light displays – from elaborate outdoor designs to a simply decorated indoor tree. Follow these tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to keep your holiday light displays safe.

If you’ve taken those old Christmas lights out of the box in the garage again this year, remember to check each strand for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires and loose connections. Don’t use any of the damaged lights. Fasten the lights securely to protect them from wind damage, and don’t overload your extension cord with any more than three standard-sized sets of lights.

Did you know that if you decorate a metal tree with electric lights, it could become charged with electricity from a faulty light? Anyone touching the tree could be electrocuted. Instead, use spotlights to light your metal tree rather than attaching lights to it. If you are using an artificial tree, look for one that is fire-resistant.

“Bubbling” lights can be hazardous to children if they are curious. The glass can break, causing cuts and the liquid that bubbles contains hazardous chemicals. Children should always be supervised around your electrical decorations, cords and plugs!

Don’t leave lights on when you go to bed or leave the house, in case of a short that could start a fire, and keep paper decorations away from lights and electrical connections. By using common sense and following a few simple guidelines, your holiday lights can be a joyful tradition year after year.

Toolbox – The Gift that Keeps on Giving

Everyone should have a basic toolbox to handle the little things – hanging pictures, assembling purchased items, tightening up loose screws and a million other day to day uses. A beginner’s toolbox makes a great holiday gift, but what are the best basic items for a tool box?

Number one – basic 16 oz claw hammer. Everyone needs a solid hammer for putting things together and taking things apart, even if you’re just using the claw to pull nails out of the wall before you vacate your apartment.

The next toolbox essentials are screwdrivers. You’ll need at least one size flat head and Phillips head screwdriver, but having a couple of varying sizes is helpful. Flat head screws aren’t used much these days, but you’ll still find them in some assembly projects or on things like switch plates.

A crescent wrench does the work of many wrenches because it’s adjustable, so it works with varying sizes of nuts and bolts. In other wrenches, a basic set of socket wrenches comes in handy. Or pick up the Craftsman “dog bone” wrench that incorporates 8 sockets in one wrench. Handy!

A pair of pliers should be in every toolbox, and as you build your tool collection you’ll want a variety. Starting with vice grips is a good idea – they lock into place and can serve as an extra hand.

A good quality 25’ tape measure is essential – whether you’re trying to figure out if the couch you saw at Ikea will fit in your living room, or figuring out how much of any building material you’ll need to buy. A small level is also useful in many kinds of projects, from putting in cabinets to hanging pictures.

Buy good quality tools for this starter kit and you’ll truly give a gift that will last for years to come.

Tankless Hot Water Heaters – Save Energy and Space

No one wants to wake up to a cold shower in the morning. If your hot water heater isn’t doing the job, is showing signs of age and deterioration, or if you are interested in making energy efficient improvements to your home, a tankless hot water heater may be for you.


Tankless hot water heaters heat water on an “as needed” basis, instead of using energy around the clock to maintain a tank of hot water. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water is drawn into the water heater, where a flow sensor activates a gas burner. The water is heated by flowing around a heat exchanger that is warmed by the gas burner.

Benefits of a tankless hot water heater are a savings in energy costs by heating water only when you need it. There’s not just one tank full of hot water, the tankless heater keeps heating the flow of water until it’s turned off, so you never run out of hot water. You’ll have less maintenance, without the need to flush sediment out of a tank periodically.

Tankless hot water heaters are space savers. Gas tankless water heaters are wall mounted, and some are even designed for outdoor installation, which frees up space in your garage or basement. They have a life expectancy of 20 years, without the risk of a tank springing leak and potential water damage.

If you act quickly, you can take advantage of a tax benefit through the end of 2010. Energy Star rated tankless water heaters are eligible for a tax credit of 30% of the cost – up to $1,500 throughout 2010.

Winterize Your Home to Save on Heating Costs

Here in Arizona, we tend to think of cutting energy costs in the summer, when air conditioning our homes, but there are simple ways to cut your winter energy bills as well. Take a few hours this weekend to winterize your home and make it more energy efficient.


•  Do a simple inspection of your home to find cracks and seams that allow drafts into the house and allow
   heat to escape. A flame on a lighter or candle can help you uncover drafts around windows and doors.
   Seal with weather stripping or caulk. This will also benefit you in the heat of summer.

•  Flip a switch and save. Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling – reverse your fans to a clockwise direction and
   the fan will push warm air from the ceiling down into your rooms. This simple “switch” could save you up
   to 10% on energy costs.

•  Mark your calendar to check the air filters in your furnace or fan coil monthly. Dirty filters restrict airflow,
    which uses more energy and causes excessive wear on your furnace.

•  Make a small investment in a programmable thermostat so you’re not heating an empty house or lower
   your thermostat for times you aren’t home. You could save from 1 to 3% on your heating bill for every
   degree you lower your thermostat.

•  Schedule a routine inspection and tune-up of your heating system to keep it running at its most efficient,
   saving you money on your energy bills.

Home Improvements to Beat Next Summer’s Heat

The long Arizona summer is over, and now is a great time to take stock of ways to make cooling home improvements that will enhance daily summer living, reduce sun fading and damage to your home’s interior and cut energy costs. The place to make minor changes with major impact is your windows. Revolutionary products like solar shades can block up to 94% of the sun’s rays, while still maintaining your view. They keep the heat outside your home, reducing energy costs and fading in carpets and fabrics. These shades are completely retractable when they’re not needed, so you have the best of both worlds.

Another flexible option for keeping summer cooler is the addition of retractable awnings to your home. A retractable awning can add shady space to relax in outdoors, as well blocking the sun from your interior. Your interior temperature can be reduced by up to 15 degrees with the addition of an awning. When the sun moves, so does your awning – you can retract it to enjoy the great outdoors and unobstructed views.

For outdoor shade, consider sun and wind shades for your patio. These customized, retractable screens protect the patio from 90% of sun and wind, and come in hundreds of colors and patterns to enhance the look of your outdoor space. You can also add classic patio curtains for an elegant look. For a more permanent and sophisticated look, your space could benefit from a lattice patio cover made of durable and long-lasting aluminum. With a wood-grain texture and color finish to match your home, a patio cover provides additional shaded space for enjoying your backyard throughout the summer.

Time to Barbeque in Arizona

Arizona residents know that grilling is a year-round activity, and once the fall weather makes spending time outside a little more appealing, it’s a great time to consider enhancing the backyard with a new barbeque or more extensive outdoor kitchen. Holiday gatherings for a crowd and visiting family and friends throughout the winter and spring make an outdoor entertaining area a fantastic option for taking advantage of the wonderful Arizona climate.

Where to begin? A good place to start is deciding whether you prefer cooking with gas, charcoal, a wood-fired outdoor oven, or even an electric grill. Do you want a portable grill that you can relocate when needed, or are you looking for an equity boosting built-in grill or outdoor kitchen? Are you a Food-Network fan looking for a smoker, spit for roasts, or oven for pizzas? Do you want to incorporate a fridge, sink or prep table in your outdoor entertaining area or keep it simple? Clearly, the possibilities are endless.

A quality grill that has all of the features you’re looking for, from a spit attachment to extra burners, is an asset that can move with you, unlike other household appliances. On the other hand, a built-in barbeque area can add value to your home, making it more appealing to buyers when you are ready to move on. There are barbeques for every budget and skill level, so visiting retailers and browsing through home design magazines can help you decide on what features are most important to you. So grab a spatula and some of Bobby Flay’s best barbeque sauce and get ready to grill!

The Stone Age – Granite in Your Kitchen

Update or customize your kitchen with granite countertops and you can expect lasting beauty and a great return on your investment. Building and design professionals consistently choose granite for luxury homes and custom remodeling projects. As a natural stone, granite possesses unique variations in color and markings that can make the countertops an exceptional and striking design element in any kitchen. From eye-catching mineral flecks to distinctive vein patterns and swirls of rich color, the characteristics of granite coordinate with cabinets, flooring and wall finishes creating the perfect, luxurious compliment to your kitchen design.

Historically marble and limestone were preferred by stone fabricators because they are softer and easier to work with. Granite is one of the hardest and most durable of the stone types, and advances in machinery and fabricating technologies have eliminated the difficulties in working with granite. Granite’s outstanding qualities led to the highest number of “excellent” ratings in a recent study of kitchen countertop materials, according to Consumer Reports.

In additional to fabricating advances, new granite resources continue to be located worldwide. Currently, approximately two-thirds of the granite used worldwide is quarried in China, India and Brazil, with granite quarries operating in dozens of other countries. Visit a reputable granite supplier and it’s likely you will have access to a plentiful supply of various colors and characteristics representing quarries around the world.

Once your project is completed and you are enjoying your new countertops, you can clean them with a neutral cleaner, stone soap or mild dishwashing detergent and warm water. Rinse the surface well and dry with a soft cloth. Don’t use scouring powders or “soft” scrubs that might scratch the surface. Your stone installer will let you know if you should apply a stone sealer and can recommend one that is non-toxic and safe in food preparation areas. It’s that easy.

Desert Gardening

Gardening in the Valley of the Sun can be a challenge, especially to green thumbs transplanted from other parts of the country where gardening seasons, plants and conditions are very different from the desert environment. Luckily, there are many local resources for novice desert gardeners and those who just want to understand the basics of maintaining their yard throughout the year.

There are many knowledgeable landscape maintenance and design services in Arizona that can help plan and maintain your yard and planters, leaving you to enjoy your golf game or lounging poolside. However, for those who want to be more active gardeners, the first place to gather information and get a good look at a variety of desert plants is the Desert Botanical Garden. This 145 acre facility features over 50,000 plant displays in outdoor exhibits, and offers a variety of classes year-round for the casual to serious gardener.

Checking with your local municipality is another option. The City of Scottsdale, for example, is offering free workshops on plant selection, plant care and landscape makeovers this fall. Glendale also has landscaping and water conservation workshops on the calendar, and Gilbert’s schedule features “Hummingbird and Butterfly Gardens” as well as “Drip Irrigation Design and Install” workshops.

As you consider creating a desert-friendly yard or garden, you can also visit one of the beautiful Xeriscape Demonstration Gardens in the area. These gardens provide great examples of plant usage and plant combinations which are sure to generate ideas for transforming your own landscape. Also be on the lookout for the tenth annual “Real Gardens for Real People” garden tour coming up in 2011, sponsored by the University of Arizona’s Master Gardener Program. Visit their website for a wealth of desert gardening resources, from books to classes and other events.

Don’t be intimated by the desert landscape – it can be prickly, but by making the most of local resources you’ll be surrounded by a beautiful landscape in no time.

Don’t Let Energy Vampires Scare You

Here are some tips for reducing your electric usage and eliminating frightful electric bills.

Start off with energy-efficient appliances. If you are replacing an old appliance, look for the Energy Star label, which assures you the product saves energy, and also prevents pollution. Buy the appliance best-suited to your needs and the size of your household, instead of the biggest with the most features.

Changing some simple settings can help lower your bills. Twenty percent of your household electric costs can come from your refrigerator. Check the temperature inside your fridge and freezer and adjust the settings so that your fridge reads 37-40 degrees and your freezer reads 3 degrees. Also use the energy saver switch. Adjusting your hot water thermostat can also result in significant savings. Try setting it for 120 degrees instead of 140 degrees.

When cleaning up it pays to pay attention to settings as well. Use warm or cold water when doing laundry, instead of hot. When running the dishwasher, make sure you fill it completely and use the energy saver setting. Consider drying dishes the old fashioned way or just allowing them to air-dry without using the heated drying cycle, which can save up to 20% of your dishwasher’s electricity usage.

Pay attention to appliances and devices that are “turned off” but are standing by – chargers that are left plugged in, electronics with remote controls, and anything with a digital clock display. If you are not using these things, you may not give them another thought, but they are still drawing electricity constantly and can account for 5% of your electric bill.

Use these simple tricks for a treat on your next electric bill.

Solar Power Basics

You are probably seeing more and more solar panels on homes and businesses as the sustainability movement gathers steam and the government offers more tax incentives for making “green” improvements to properties. If you’ve considered making the switch to solar power, here are some of the benefits.

Solar power obviously comes from the sun, which is a renewable resource. Although not every day is sunny, the sun is not going to stop producing light. Other energy sources require harvesting of fossil fuels or plant or animal matter that will eventually be depleted. Solar power doesn’t emit any greenhouse gases or other pollution, and there is no risk of harming the environment while acquiring the energy from the sun, as opposed to fuels like oil that require dredging and may spill with disastrous results.

Ongoing solar power is free. Once your system is in place, there is no additional cost to power your home or business. Most solar panels are long lasting and require little maintenance. Solar panels are generally a good investment, with varying time-frames for ROI. As interest in solar power grows, a solar power system can add resale value to a home, since lower energy bills are appealing to everyone and “green” improvements are becoming more desirable.

Solar power technology is continually improving, and costs continue to drop. If you aren’t ready to commit to roof panels and the larger expense of powering your whole home with sunlight, you can also opt to power your hot water heater or pool heater with solar power, or use smaller solar power devices for solar “space heating”. www.SolarPower.org is a great place to learn more about solar power and stay up on the latest developments in the industry.

Bedbugs are REAL!

Bedbugs are all over the news these days, because apparently bedbugs are all over everything these days. The rise in bedbug infestations is credited to increased travel, more immigration and the fact that the hardy bugs are tough to eliminate. Bedbugs can live for as long as a year without feeding, and their food of choice is human blood. They hide in seams, cracks and crevices and are expert at hitching rides in suitcases, briefcases, gym bags, purses or on your clothes. This allows them to spread from hotels to homes to schools and offices.

These little brown bugs cannot be stopped by pesticides alone. In a span of about 4 months, just two bedbugs can produce over 300 bugs and lay an additional 1,000 eggs. They like dark places, and like to feed in the dark.

If you’re getting itchy bites, or see evidence of bedbugs you should call a pest control professional. In addition to any chemical treatments, you’ll need to take some other measures to eliminate these pesky parasites. You’ll need to seal your mattress and pillows with a zippered cover to trap bugs and nymphs and prevent them from feeding. Wash linens and be sure to dry them in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. Vacuuming can help, although the eggs are hard to remove. After vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag in a Ziploc bag and dispose of it outside. Sticky tape or glue boards can be used around your bed to catch the bugs, and allow you to see if they are still moving around.

Remember to check your room if you are traveling, and even be on the lookout for bedbugs in the office or gym. An infestation can easily be transported back to your home from one of these places.

Easy Bathroom Updates

Updating a tired bathroom is a great way to start the fall. But don’t think you have to get into heavy-duty, dusty demolition and costly renovations. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to make bathroom improvements is to update your bath or shower area with an acrylic liner. These custom-fitted liners fit your existing tub or shower area perfectly, and are guaranteed not to fade, crack or peel for your house’s lifetime.

Liners Direct has been in the liner business for almost 20 years, and is an industry leader in acrylic manufacturing. They offer a variety of colors and have a complete selection of molds for tub and shower models of all ages and sizes.

So, what if you could be looking at a clean, modern shower or bath area in just one day? This is the time of year when out-of-town relatives and friends start booking their trips for Arizona’s warm winter – when is your rotation of houseguests going to start? By taking advantage of the quick turnaround using Liners Direct, you’ll be ready to host Mom and Dad in no time, for a smaller investment than you would expect.

Match your existing bathroom colors, or go in a new direction with a selection of colors and finishes – from granite and marble designs to a clean tile look. Add accessories to enhance your tub or shower, such as shelves, recessed soap dishes or a corner seat. Liners Direct can also provide a custom-fitted window kit that results in a water-tight seal on your existing window. Update the rest of the room with Liners Direct wainscoting for a fresh look with unmatched durability.

Getting excited about the possibility of a top quality bath renovation that is quick and easy? Take a look at these before and after photos for even more ideas.

Pool Safety is Important Year-round

As summer draws to a close we may not be spending as much time out by the pool, but it’s important to remember that throughout the year, pools are a potential hazard for homeowners and should be protected with the proper fencing and other safety equipment. Local building codes include very specific requirements for pool safety in terms of fencing, gates, and door alarms in an attempt eliminate drowning incidents. Drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 4 in Arizona, and is the second-leading cause of unintentional, injury-related death among children under the age of 15.

Pool barrier code varies from city to city in the Phoenix metro area, so homeowners should familiarize themselves with their local ordinances. Homeowners have a number of options for protecting their families and keeping their pool areas safe. A permanent, galvanized and powder-coated steel pool fence can be a beautiful part of your property landscaping, while keeping your pool area safely secured when it is unsupervised. These fences can be custom built to match your home and installed to enhance your existing landscaping features.

Those that don’t have children in the home or want the convenience of a removable fence can consider a pool barrier system. These systems come in a variety of colors and can be used indoors or out, wherever a barrier is needed. They can be taken down and stored when not in use.

Be sure to comply with your local code for pool safety, but more importantly, remember to supervise children at all times because a child can drown in the time it takes to answer the phone. Installing pool fencing is the next important step to take in keeping your family safe around the pool all year long.

Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips

Believe it or not, the weather will cool down before you know it and you’ll want your heating system to be working properly. Regularly scheduled maintenance by a professional is essential for keeping your system in top operating condition. Check out Energy Star’s maintenance checklist to see what your technician should be servicing.
Filters should be checked monthly, especially in times of high usage. Dirty filters can result in your system running inefficiently and raising your energy costs. Dirt and dust trapped in your system can also lead to expensive repairs if allowed to build up over time. Use the best quality filters for the best results.

Check your ductwork for cracks or loose seams where your heated air can escape. Seal all seams and connections with metal-backed or duct sealant (mastic) tape. You can then wrap ductwork with insulation to keep your ducts leak-free. Speaking of insulation, having the proper wall and ceiling insulation in your home can result in energy savings in both summer and winter. Both the U.S. Department of Energy and APS provide guidelines for proper insulation in specific geographic regions.

Check your condenser as well. First remove any grass, weeds or vines that may have grown up around your condenser, obstructing air flow. Also remove any leaves or other debris. Using a dry, soft brush, clean the exterior of the condenser to remove accumulated dirt. If you are reaching the fins, use care when brushing away dirt. Fins are lightweight and easily damaged. Don’t use your hose, as the dirt can turn to mud packed between the fins.

The concrete pad on which your condenser rests should be level. You can check this by setting a carpenter’s level front to back and side to side on top of the condenser. If you need to level your pad, you can pry it up slightly and fill underneath with a little gravel. These easy, common-sense measures will keep your home and your wallet comfortable this fall.

Update the Gate!

Gates are a functional part of your property, but are also an architectural element that can express your home’s style and add to curb appeal. Whether your home is a stately Tuscan, traditional southwestern territorial style, a 1920’s bungalow or a Spanish-style stucco - a front or side gate, courtyard gate or driveway gate can add a unique design element to your property. Automated gates are one way to boost your home’s security and add the ultimate convenience.

Wrought iron or powder-coated steel gates are a long-lasting alternative to wood gates, which can rot, sustain damage from insects, loosen and sag. The Arizona climate is tough on wooden gates, and can result in gates that don’t work properly, failing to latch or swing properly on their hinges. Of course, gates in disrepair are not only a safety hazard, but detract from your property’s curb appeal.

Choosing a new gate that is galvanized is a great investment, preventing rust and decay for years to come. There will be minimal rust possible in cracks and seams with the powder coating, but for the most part these materials are built to be maintenance free and last. Powder coating or electrostatically painting your gate offers up color choices to match your landscaping and existing fencing, stone or block wall.

If you love the look of wood for your gates, consider a synthetic wood. Gate companies like Great Gates Inc. offer a synthetic wood in four realistic colors: Coastal Cedar, Sequoia Red, Driftwood Gray, and Dark Walnut. This product is made of 100% recycled materials; will not split, chip or degrade and is 100% maintenance free.

Look for a gate and fencing manufacturer who uses top quality materials, and have your gate installed by an experienced, licensed fencing contractor to ensure that it functions properly and will enhance the beauty of your home for years to come.

Choosing a Fridge

Renovating your kitchen? One of the most important decisions to make is what type of refrigerator you want. There are so many makes and models available, it might seem impossible to narrow down your choices to that one perfect fridge. Size is the first important factor in choosing a refrigerator that will incorporate into your kitchen remodel.

First measure the space you have selected for your fridge in your new kitchen layout. Include an inch or so at the top and sides for clearance, and remember to measure how far out the refrigerator extends with doors open. The other aspect of size that is important is the storage capacity of the unit. With two or three people in the home, 18 to 22 cubic feet of storage might be enough, but larger families or those who love entertaining will want more space.

Styles include side-by-side models, and those with the freezer on the top or bottom. Different styles offer different amounts of storage space and functionality. Then there are features such as in-door ice and water dispensers, humidity and temperature controls, and slide-out storage features and shelves. And of course – color. You’ll want to match your new fridge to your other appliances, and possibly upgrade with panels to match your cabinetry for a seamless design.

Energy efficiency is also a consideration when choosing appliances today. Look for the Energy Star designation, and check into ways to conserve energy once you have your new appliance in place. Check reviews and ratings for your possible refrigerator choices to lessen the chance of unpleasant surprises once your dream fridge is in place, and look for a good warranty on your purchase. It should cover parts for a year and the sealed refrigeration system for five years.

Having the right new refrigerator can make or break your kitchen renovation and even add to your return on investment, so make sure to research and choose the model that works perfectly in your renovation design.

Simple Prep Work for Painting

Nothing has a bigger impact on your living space than interior painting. A fresh coat of paint can add appeal your home, making a tired interior seem new again. Painting is often a crucial part of getting your house ready to sell, especially in a tough housing market. You might think that choosing the perfect color is the main concern before having your interior painted, but having the proper prep work done before painting is just as important. Your paint job will look its best and last longer when your walls are prepared properly.

If your walls are already painted, it’s important to determine whether the existing paint is latex or oil-based. Testing the paint with denatured alcohol on a rag is a quick way to determine what type of paint is on your walls. If rubbing with the alcohol softens or removes the paint, it is an acrylic or latex paint. You can apply an oil-based or latex paint over this without priming. If the paint is unaffected by the alcohol, it is oil based and cannot be recoated with latex paint without using a primer.

Nail holes and minor cracks in your wall can be filled with lightweight spackle and lightly sanded. This is also a great time to check the caulking around windows, moldings and baseboards. Make sure the any new caulk that is applied is paintable. If you are painting a light color over a bold, dark color, it’s helpful to prime the walls. If you encounter peeling, stains, mold or mildew or major cracks on your walls, more extensive prep work will need to be done before painting. Skimping on the preparation can result in problems down the road, and the need to repaint a second time. It’s also important in homes built before 1978 to use proper precautions when scraping or sanding existing paint, which may be lead-based.

Update Your Kitchen with Cabinet Refacing

In this economy, homeowners are looking to make home improvements that make sense. Kitchens are one part of the home where improvements can go from something as small as new cabinet hardware to a full-blown kitchen remodel. According to Remodeling Magazine, homeowners in 2009 who chose to do smaller kitchen remodeling jobs, spending less than half the cost of a major remodel, recouped a higher percentage of their investment – 81.5%. The magazine included cabinet refacing in their estimates for the minor remodel.

Cabinet refacing makes sense if you are looking for an updated look in your kitchen, but like the existing layout of your kitchen. You can create a whole new look at a fraction of the cost and with a lot less disruption within your home. The actual process of cabinet refacing consists of removing the doors and drawer fronts, leaving the cabinet boxes in place. The doors and drawer fronts are replaced with high-quality new pieces, and the exterior faces of the boxes are covered with new surface material. There are a wide variety of styles and finishes available for your “new” cabinets, and you can replace and update the hardware as well, creating an updated kitchen in as little as a few days.

Don’t just think color or finish when considering refacing your cabinets. This is a great time to add new features or accessories to your kitchen. Incorporate mullion doors into your design. Add moldings and rosettes for the look of a high-end custom kitchen. You can even add cabinets to your existing layout to improve your kitchen’s functionality. Finish your refacing project off with a built-in wine rack or added corner shelves. The options are unlimited, and make sense for homeowners who want a quality kitchen for less.

Dishwasher Care

A few simple steps will keep your dishwasher in good working order and give you cleaner dishes.

Daily
• Clean the front or top of the dishwasher with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Follow manufacturer instructions to preserve the finish.
• Only use detergents specifically made for dishwashers.
• Use powdered detergents instead of gels. They don’t contain chlorine bleach to harm your seals or filters. They are less likely to clog the soap dispenser.
• Detergents do have a shelf life of about 2 weeks. Once you open the box, the product starts losing strength. So buy a package that fits your usage for a 2 week time frame.
• Use a rinse aid to help prevent spotting on glassware especially if you use well water or live in a hard water area.

Twice a Month
• Clean the screens or filters. Check the manufacturer’s user manual for the correct way to remove the filters in the dishwasher. Soak them in warm vinegar water to loosen mineral deposits. Brush with a soft-medium brush or old toothbrush to remove any food particles trapped in the filter. Replace a torn or damaged filter. You don’t want to allow food particles to damage the dishwasher.
• Check the food drain. While the filters should prevent food particles from getting into the food drain, it won’t hurt to take a peek into the drain to verify that it is empty and clean.

Once a Month
• Clean and deodorize the dishwasher. Run a cycle when the dishwasher is empty of dishes with a quart of vinegar to clean mineral deposits from the interior of the dishwater as well as the food drain. An alternative is to run a cycle with a scoop of Tang powered drink. It will scour the interior walls and leave a clean scent.

Bi-Monthly
• Clean the sprayer arm. Mineral deposits and food particles can clog the holes in the sprayer. Soak the arm in warm vinegar water to loosen the build up. Finish the cleaning with a pipe cleaner to completely clear the holes.
• Repair the dish racks. Should you see any exposed metal or nicks on the dish rack, purchase a repair kit from your local hardware store. The repairs are easy to make and will protect the rack from further deterioration as well as protect your dishes from rust or stains.

Twice a Year
• Level the dishwasher. Open the door and place an air bubble level on the inside rim of the dishwasher. Adjust the legs on the front of the dishwasher to keep it level.
• Check the sealing gaskets. Look at the rubber or plastic seals around the door to be sure they are pliable with no cracks or tears. Poor gaskets can allow the dishwasher to leak.

Tags: dishwasher care, dishwasher maintenance

August Maintenance List

Yes, it is too hot to do much right now, however, August is a good time to take care of some little odds and ends.

• Check flashlights to be sure the batteries are strong. There will still be some monsoon storms and you don’t want to be left in the dark.
• Check windows and doors to make sure locks work properly and that they are in good condition. Clean tracks and lubricate hinges.
• Repair or replace any cracked windows. Get more information about window replacement at Trades Unlimited. It’s important to do the job right so you don’t create leaks into your home.
• Add security locks or even wooden dowels that you lay in the tracks of windows or patio sliding doors for additional protection.
• Perform garage door maintenance. Click here for an excellent article from Lincoln Electric Door with instructions.
• Repair minor brick and mortar cracks in your exterior walls, foundation, driveway and sidewalks. Call a professional if necessary, especially concerning foundations.
• If you haven´t cleaned gutters for awhile, check them now. They may be full of monsoon trash. You can replace damaged or leaking gutters now, or add leaf guards that will allow leaves to slide off. Make this the last year for gutter cleaning!

Garden Tool Maintenance

Simple maintenance can make your garden tools last longer. That saves you money! Simple maintenance can make your garden tools work better. That saves you time!

Wood handles
Wood handles need to be sanded and oiled usually once a year. Wipe off the handle to clean, and use little if any water. Use fine sand paper to smooth the surface. Remove any dust and rub linseed oil into the handle. Let it soak in. Use as much as it takes until it doesn't absorb any more. Wait about a half hour then wipe off any remaining oil with a clean, dry rag.

Fiberglass
Handles, step stools, etc. made of fiberglass need a little attention too. Wash with soap and water then dry.
Metal surfaces

Store metal tools such as shovels or pruners in a 5-gallon bucket filled with coarse sand to which oil (motor oil or vegetable oil) has been added. The small amount of oil that will transfer from the tool to the soil will break down without causing any harm.

You can use the same bucket as a cleaning step. Clean off as much dirt as you can then dig the tool up and down in the sand a few times to clean off remaining dirt and coat the head with oil. The oil coating prevent rust.
Remove light rust with a wire brush.

If the rust is a bit worse, you can sometimes remove it by soaking the tool in white vinegar; otherwise, use steel wool. Start with the least coarse grade you can to remove the rust. Once the rust is removed and the entire surface is clean, you can apply a rust-proofing primer. Steel wool and repaint any rough areas.

File the cutting edge of your metal tools to keep the blades sharp. Though it can be a tough job if it hasn’t been done for awhile even a badly sharpened tool is easier to use that a dull tool. If you regularly file your tools, it will take less strokes to keep a sharp edge.

Detailed filing instructions

Pruning tools
Clean the tool and its blades each time you use it. Use LiquidWrench products to keep hinges working freely.

Detailed filing instructions

For very expensive pruners, have them professionally sharpened or invest in a specialty tool to make sure you can sharpen them correctly.

WARNING!
Remember to always use safety glasses when working with files or power tools. One metal splinter can cause a lot of damage if it gets in your eye. Be safe!

Storage
Hanging your tools by their handles on a storage shed or garage wall not only keeps them out of the way but also prevents damage to sharpened edges. A 10-penny finish nail driven into a handy two-by-four is the easiest way to keep tools aloft. Drill 1/4-inch holes through the handles of axes, shovels, hoes, rakes and other long-handled tools to hang them on the nails. Be sure to keep the business end of the tool hanging toward the floor.

Gloves
A good well-fitted pair of gloves is a necessary tool in gardening. You must protect your hands from the sun, wind and cold. You must also protect your hands from soil borne pathogens and the cuts and scraps that would allow them easy access. However, gloves can also spread insects, their eggs, soil borne diseases and viruses. So you want to select gloves that can be washed and machined dried.

Deck Maintenance

Deck maintenance is not only important to the homeowner, it is important to the environment. Each year around 3 million new decks are built in the US. Each year another 3 million decks require repairs caused most often by lack of maintenance. These new and repaired decks are a huge drain on the nation’s forests! An average acre of forest yields wood for only two or three decks. So if all decks were properly maintained to make them last the decades they could last, as many as 6 million trees could be saved in 10 years. Let’s talk about maintenance!

Cleaning
Regular cleaning is key to maintenance.
• Sweep dirt and debris off the deck frequently. Leaves can stain a deck and retain moisture which can lead to mold and mildew.

Dry rot is a major deck problem. The fungus feeds on wood. Dry rot often leads to termite infestation. Dry rot requires wet wood. Keeping your deck free of debris which holds moisture will protect you.

• Use planters with feet to prevent stains and moisture retention.

• If your deck is built close to the ground, spread a polyethylene barrier over the soil to keep moisture from seeping up onto your deck.

• Good cleaning products:
Oxygen bleach
Deckwash made by www.Sherwin-Williams.com
Simple Wash made by www.Biowash.com
Stain Solver by AskaBuilder.com

You want a cleaner that will remove oxidation and dissolve hard to remove dirt. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning with a Power Washer
While it isn’t necessary, using a power washer can make the clean up job faster. But exercise caution! An inexperienced user can damage the deck. Also consider the impact of gasoline or electric powered machines on the environment.

• A proper power washer should provide at least 2000 psi but preferably 2400 psi. Don’t use higher pressure as you can raise the wood grain or even remove a layer of wood.

• For light cleaning, use a 25 degree tip. Use a 15 degree tip for heavier cleaning needs.

• Keep the wand 6-9 inches from the deck surface. Move it in a smooth pendulum motion.


Sealing the Deck
A new deck should not be sealed for the first year. The wood needs to dry out and the fibers need to open. You can treat the deck with a new wood treatment to promote proper weathering.

The deck must be clean before you seal. It also must be completely dry.

You can paint a deck, however, paint won’t hold up as well to foot traffic as a wood stain. Your deck will require less maintenance if you use paint only on railings and balustrades.

Brighteners aren’t required but they can revive the look of the wood. Try:
Revive by www.Sherwin-Williams.com
www.Ewoodcare.com for redwood decks

Wood sealants are most likely your best option.

• Clear Finishes – With no colorant for the wood, these finishes contain water repellant and sometimes preservatives. The best clear finishes contain oils that penetrate the wood and last longer.

• Semi-transparent Finishes – These alkyd stains are more opaque but allow the wood grain to show through. They will penetrate the wood but eventually will fade away.

• Solid Stains – Since the stains site on top of the wood they don’t wear as well. They will fade in traffic areas. They will need to be re-applied annually.

• Deck Finishes – The finishes contain oils or parafins to repel water. They soak into the wood and thus last longer. They also contain preservatives to prevent mildew and mold. UV inhibitors are included to project against sun damage and discoloration.

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your deck by tens of years. Don’t miss this opportunity to save yourself some money and to save some trees!

Clogged Bathtub Drains

I recently had the opportunity to share a bathroom with my nephew. Hmm. There are mysterious things in the bathroom of a 17 year old!! Most I chose not to ask about but the plugged drain in the shower definitely needed attention so I brought it up. That sent us searching for solutions. My sister was determined to find an environmentally friendly fix. I'd like to share our research with HouseTalk Show listeners.

This introductory article from the DoItYourself web site was a good starting point. I thought the suggestions at the end to keep the problem from reoccurring were very good.

Here's a good pictorial if you have a "Lift and Turn" drain from eHow.

If the above methods don't work and you feel the need for a drain cleaner, there are environmental friendly options.
Baking Soda
Eco-Friendly Drain Cleaners article from About.com

Pamela
a HouseTalk fan

Check Your Electrical System

In preparation for summer, now is a good time to check your electrical system. Below is a basic list. If you have more questions or need specific instructions for your home, call me Saturday morning!

• Trip and reset circuit breakers.
• Check all light bulbs to ensure they don't exceed the recommended wattage for the lamp or fixture.
• Consider using CFL bulbs whenever possible to increase your energy savings.
• Check electrical outlets and switches for loose hardware.
• Check power cords for frayed cables or damaged plugs.
• If there are small children in the home, use safety covers on any unused outlets.
• Replace surge protectors if needed.
  
• Check all fire extinguishers to ensure they are in working order.
• Check smoke detectors.
• Check CO2 detectors.
• Check the batteries in your flash lights in preparation for summer outages.
  

Tags: home maintenance