zakkleifeste, Author at Mister Greenway

Ways to Lower Your Water Bill

November 8, 2021 by zakkleifeste

Using water wisely can help the environment and also lower your monthly water bill. Even if your bill doesn’t seem that high, shaving off dollars can positively impact your finances. Plus, reducing your water bill is simple if you know the proper steps to take.

Collect Rain Water

A great source of free water is rain. To collect rainwater, invest in a rain barrel that will hold gallons at one time. Most barrels come with a spout that allows you to hook your outside hose to the barrel for easy use.

Rainwater can be used to water your garden and grass, and you can even put water directly into a watering can to use on your indoor plants. While rainwater isn’t suitable for drinking, it is better for plants than tap water because it is soft and doesn’t contain chemicals. You’ll save money and likely have more beautiful plants.

Use Energy Efficient Appliances

If you live in an older home that hasn’t had appliances replaced recently, then you may want to look into upgrading. While the up-front cost of buying new appliances may seem high, you can save money for years to come.

Replacing your dishwasher and washing machine with energy-efficient brands will lower your water bill and save you money on energy use. You will also be able to do more dishes or laundry at one time and finish those tasks faster. You save time and money when you are willing to invest in quality appliances.

Take Mindful Showers

Showers indeed are where many people escape to destress from the day. You may also enjoy a long morning shower to help get you moving. The problem is mindlessly standing in the shower with hot water blasting uses a lot of water that you have to pay for eventually.

Try to keep your showers under five minutes. It’s also a good idea to find ways to use less water when in the shower. A few tips to help include:

Getting a shower timer
Turning off water when you are soaping your body and hair
Take a cooler shower than usual so that you won’t linger
Showering less often

Fix Leaks

Leaks are more than an annoyance. They cause water waste that you pay for each time you pay your water bill. Most leaks aren’t difficult to fix. Even if you do need a plumber’s help, it’s worth it for the long-term savings.

Common places you might find leaks include:

Toilets
Sink faucets
Hot water tanks
Showers
Supply lines

You can check most of these easily from within your own home. However, supply line leaks can be trickier. If you notice puddles or other areas of moisture around your house that can’t be explained, you may have a supply line leak.

Look for leaks regularly, but pay special attention if you suddenly see an increase in your water bill.

Choose Wise Watering Times

It’s tempting to water your yard or your outside plants in the heat of the day because that’s when most vegetation looks like it’s struggling. However, this isn’t a good move for your plants or your water bill. Watering during the hottest part of the day means the water will evaporate quickly.

The best watering times are early morning or late evening. Water has time to be absorbed into the ground before evaporating if the temperature isn’t too hot. This means you won’t have to use as much water to get good results for your vegetation.

Do Laundry Right

Wait until you have a whole load of laundry to run your washing machine. Though it can be tempting to throw in a few leftover socks and a towel, it wastes tons of water. It also makes your washing machine work extra and wears down faster.

You should also remove wet laundry from the washing machine as soon as it is finished. You can hang it out to dry or put it in your dryer, but don’t let it sit in the washer wet. Your clothes will start to smell, and you will have to rewash them.

Use the Dishwasher

Washing your dishes by hand may seem like an easy way to lessen the use of your dishwasher. However, you will quickly end up using more water when you wash by hand. Load your dishwasher to capacity, and leave any dishes that won’t fit in your sink for the next load.

If you have to wash your dishes by hand, don’t leave your water running the whole time. Fill your sink up with water and wash all your dishes before rinsing and drying. This approach will use less water than leaving your faucet running while washing and rinsing each dish individually.

Use Smart Techniques to Adjust Temperature

Some recipes call for hot water, but there is more than one way to get it. Waiting for the water from your faucet to get warm means you have to leave it on and waste a ton of water before it is the right temperature. You can save water by warming it on the stove.

You can also put your drinking water in a pitcher for the week and place it in the fridge. This will keep it cold and keep you from wasting water coming from the faucet that is too warm to drink.

Use Leftovers

Most of us end up having extra water in cups around our homes by the end of the day. Don’t simply toss it down the sink. You can use the water to fill your dog’s water dish, water plants, or rinse off counters.

As long as the water hasn’t been sitting out for too long, it can still easily serve a purpose in your home.

Turn Off Bathroom Faucets

You need water to shave or brush your teeth, but you don’t have to leave the faucet running the entire time you groom. Fill your bathroom sink up with water before you shave so you can dip your razor in the sink to clean it quickly. If you shave in the shower, turn the shower off while you are shaving and back on when you are finished and ready to rinse.

Since we are supposed to brush our teeth for two minutes at least two times a day, leaving the water on the entire time is wasteful. Quickly wet your toothbrush and then turn off the faucet. When you’re finished brushing, fill a small cup to rinse and quickly turn the water back off.

Add Aerators

Adding aerators to the faucets in your home can help you use less water while making your water flow stronger. The air the aerator introduces decreases the amount of water coming through and boosts your water pressure.

Aerators are not expensive. However, they can majorly impact how much water you use while keeping your water pressure steady.

Replace Toilets

Low-flow toilets can cut down your water use by gallons each time you flush. Since toilets are responsible for a third of water consumption in a house, replacing each toilet can have a significant impact on how much homeowners spend each year.

You can also replace other bathroom items with more efficient versions. Energy-efficient showerheads will help you make the most of your short showers without wasting water.

Every small step can help decrease your water bill. It will also increase your positive impact on the planet.

What’s That Smell? HVAC Smells To Pay Attention To

October 21, 2021 by zakkleifeste

Your HVAC system is key to keeping you comfortable in your home, but it is a complicated system with multiple components. If any of the major components of your system need service, you will likely be able to tell. Knowing what an HVAC smell means can help you ensure your system stays in working order.

By paying attention to smells that come from your HVAC system and addressing them quickly, you can avoid more significant problems that could arise in the future. There are a variety of smells that can pass through your HVAC system and fill your home, signaling the need for an experienced technician.

Burning

Chances are you have smelled a wire, or an electrical component starts to burn. Your HVAC unit utilizes a wide variety of electrical components, and if any of these are experiencing an issue, it could cause a similar burning smell. However, a unit can give off a burning smell immediately after being turned on due to dust or a dirty air filter stressing the electric resistance heaters. Before worrying about the problem, give it about 30 minutes to go away or check the air filter.

If the smell does not go away and the air filter is clean, you should look into servicing options. The first step you should take is to turn off the unit not to continue to run electricity. With a combination of motors, wiring, and switches, an HVAC unit is very complex. Therefore, if you are experiencing an electrical HVAC smell, it is best to let an experienced professional look into and resolve the issue.

Rotten Eggs

The smell of rotten eggs or sulfur is an indicator of a natural gas leak. Natural gas on its own is odorless, but local utility providers often add it to help signify a leak. If you smell this odor, you should contact the gas company and step away from your home until the issue is resolved. This may not necessarily be an issue with your overall HVAC system and more often comes from a furnace, but it is a good idea to have an HVAC technician perform a checkup to take care of the smell.

Oil

An HVAC smell of oil or smoke can indicate an oil leak that leads to burning. This is especially possible if you rely on an oil furnace to heat your home. In some cases, the problem can be quickly resolved by tightening a fitting in the oil line, tank, or filter. A more complex issue could be a malfunctioning oil burner, clogged or paired with a bad fuel pump. If the burning smell lingers for more than a few hours, you should contact a technician who will be more experienced in diagnosing the problem.

Mildew

Air conditioning units are equipped with a condensate drain to expel any water that builds up due to condensation. However, if the condensate drain is not working correctly or becomes clogged, water can quickly build up around the unit and settle for extended periods. The frozen water can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, leading to a musty smell.

Mold and mildew can also build up in other areas of your unit, especially in humid environments. Under certain circumstances, mold and mildew can begin to grow around an air conditioner’s condenser coil or in the air ducts. Of course, residue and spores from the mold will pass through the vents and spread into multiple house areas, leading to an unpleasant smell.

This unpleasant HVAC smell should be addressed by an experienced technician, who can perform the maintenance tasks necessary to ensure the unit is clean and draining properly. This includes cleaning the condenser coil and servicing the drainage components. An experienced technician can also monitor the issue to determine the extent of the problem. A technician can also discuss using a dehumidifier in your system if it may be right for you.

Residual HVAC Smell

Of course, your HVAC system is responsible for circulating air around your entire home. This means that the system will also distribute whatever is in the air. An HVAC smell may not always indicate a severe problem with your system. A plan can circulate smells like cigarette smoke, sewage, or smells from outside. Sewage smells are usually not related to your HVAC system, but they will be carried by it and should be immediately addressed by a plumber.

If the smell is unrelated to your HVAC system, you can still alleviate the odor by ensuring your system is well maintained and has a clean air filter. There are also various types of filters for a variety of environments that you can discuss with an experienced technician.

If you have any concerns about an HVAC smell, contact a trusted local HVAC technician. They can help you diagnose and solve the problem. Your HVAC system is key to your respiratory health and keeps your home at the right temperature to ensure you and your family are comfortable; don’t let problems go untreated.

Proper maintenance of your HVAC unit is also crucial to help prevent problems before they arise. Even if there is no smell, it is still essential to inspect it visually and service it regularly. Tasks like replacing the air filter and checking the wiring should be done regularly. It is often a good idea to complete an annual service to keep your unit in its best condition. Contacting a technician can help you maintain peace of mind regardless of the temperature outside.

3 Pipes to Stop Using Right Now

October 26, 2020 by zakkleifeste

Do you have any of these pipe types in your home?

When it comes to plumbing, you want to make sure that the pipes in your home are of the best quality available. At Mister Greenway, our plumbers will provide you with top quality service for whatever plumbing work you need done. If you’re noticing signs of wear, flaking, rust, or leaks with your pipes, it’s best to have them replaced to prevent potential damage to your home. Replumbing may seem like a hassle, but with the correct pipes you won’t have to worry about any plumbing issues in the future.
Here are 3 pipes that you should stop using in your home:

#1 Pipe Type To Change: Lead Pipes

If you have an older home, it’s possible that some of your pipes are still made of lead. Until the 1930s, lead was one of the main materials used for home plumbing pipes. Most lead pipes were used to connect your municipality’s water supply lines to your home. Medical professionals now associate lead as being toxic to your health, so it’s extremely important to get any lead pipes replaced.

#2 Pipe Type To Change: Polybutylene Pipes

Replacing lead pipes in the 70s and up to the mid-90s, polybutylene pipes have been used in the southern, midwest, and northwest of the United States. Polybutylene pipes have been found to react poorly with chlorine, which can damage them over time. If you are aware of polybutylene pipes in your home, our plumbing experts at Greenway Plumbing can have them replaced for an affordable price.

#3 Pipe Type To Change: Orangeburg Pipes

Bituminous fiber pipes, commonly known as Orangeburg pipes, are used for drainage and sewage purposes in most homes. Since these pipes are found underneath your home, they are susceptible to water and tree root damage. Replacing them will ensure that you won’t have any plumbing or sewage problems in the future.

What Types Of Pipes Do I Have In My Home?

When checking any pipes in your home, you’ll want to look for any wear, flaking, rusting, or brown or black coloring to the pipes. These are the typical signs that your pipe quality is starting to deteriorate. It is also important that you monitor your water quality as well. Changes in the color, taste, or smell can also be signs that you need to replace your pipes. Replacing bad pipes before they leak or cause damage to your home is very important. A trained plumber can better assess your plumbing to determine if you’re in need of new pipes.
If you or someone you know have lead, polybutylene, or orangeburg pipes in your home, it is recommended that the pipes are removed and replaced. Mister Greenway provides top-quality plumbing services and can handle any of your plumbing needs. Redoing your old pipes will ensure that your plumbing system is up to standard and that your home is protected from any plumbing issues. If you have questions about plumbing pipes or would like one of our plumbers to assess your current pipes, please contact us at mistergreenway.com.

Greenway Home Services Sponsors Orpheum Mini Golf

September 17, 2020 by zakkleifeste

The Orpheum’s historic stage is open again for play; this time taking on a new look as a putting green! The inaugural Orpheum Mini Golf begins September 17 and wraps up on September 27 with several 90-minute time slots available each day. Patrons are invited to putt through nine Broadway-themed holes (including Hamilton) on the Orpheum’s historic stage.

Greenway Home Services is proud to sponsor this socially distanced fundraiser. Patrons will enjoy trying for a hole in one in a comfortable, air-conditioned atmosphere. This creative fundraiser gives the community a chance to support the theatre in one of the most crucial times in its history.

Advance registration is required to reserve your spot for tee times. Reservations can be on the Orpheum website. Please direct any questions to [email protected]

About Greenway Home Services: Greenway Home Services provides high-quality appliance, HVAC, and plumbing services to homeowners in the Memphis and Nashville areas. Our team is passionate about helping homeowners live as comfortably in their homes as possible.

Facts About HVAC UV Lights

July 2, 2020 by zakkleifeste

Having an optimally functioning HVAC system in your home or office is essential for comfort and success. One option you may be asked to consider is if you would like to have HVAC UV lights installed inside your system.

The reason some people choose to install UV lights is that they work to either prevent or reduce the circulation of microorganisms in the home or office’s ductwork. There are a number of potential benefits provided by HVAC UV lights, which make them an important consideration for the overall functioning and performance of your HVAC system.

Why you might want UV lights in your HVAC system

Viruses and bacteria can grow inside of your HVAC system, contaminating the air in your home or office. Air contamination can cause a number of health issues, such as bacterial infections, asthma, allergies, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

However, there are certain UV lights that can be used to purify the air. Ultraviolet Germicidal Light, also known as UVGI, is able to eliminate some viruses and bacteria. With proper installation, as well as the right spectrum of UV light, an HVAC UV light can help to increase the quality of air in your home or office.

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Keep in mind that there must be certain conditions met during installation in order for the UV light to be effective. This means that a professional and experienced HVAC technician is needed to complete your installation.

With an HVAC UV light system, you may also want to utilize a HEPA filter, which is used to trap large particulates that have the potential to shield microorganisms from the UV light. The microorganisms keep the UV light from working efficiently, by essentially protecting those harmful bacteria and not cleaning the air, thus a HEPA filter is a great choice for supporting the work of the UVGI light.

HVAC UV Light Systems

If you decide to have a UV light installed, you will have two types of HVAC UV light installations to choose from; air sterilization and coil sterilization.

Air sterilization

Also known as an In-Duct UVC system, air sterilization causes the UV-C light to disinfect the air while it cycles through the return ducts. This enables efficiency through the maximization of the UV-C light by causing the reflective surface within the particular ductwork section to be enhanced.

Coil sterilization

When coil sterilization is chosen, there are UV-C lamps installed that are able to discover problem areas and other sensitive components which can include cooling coils, filters, and condensation pans. This type of installation can enable microbial growth in difficult areas to be found.

Installing an HVAC UV-C Light

A household’s HVAC system is important, however if filled with microorganisms that cause viruses and bacteria, it can be harmful. It’s essential to have an effective way to filter out the negative and unhealthy components so that your HVAC system works optimally and provides top-notch air quality to your home or office.

By hiring an expert HVAC technician, you can have a UV light installed in your HVAC system to rid your air of the molds, viruses, and bacteria that can cause you harm.

The Many Benefits of Programmable Thermostats

September 26, 2019 by zakkleifeste

Start Saving Money With A Programmable Thermostat

Have you heard about programmable thermostats but you’re not sure they’re right for you? What is a smart home and how can it save you money? These innovative devices are popping up all over the place and we are getting a lot of calls from people who are interested in hearing more about them.

Here are just a few of the most common benefits that people get when they decide to install a programmable thermostat. If you read through these and you think that one would be great in your home, give us a call at Greenway. We’ll be out soon to help you choose the perfect programmable thermostat for your home. Then we’ll get it installed and make sure it’s working before we leave your house.

Programmable thermostats are easy to use

The newest programmable thermostats make setting, viewing, and changing your thermostat easier than it has ever been. Many of them feature large, bright displays so you can always see exactly what the temperature is as well as your options and any other data you’ve chosen to have displayed.

Many of these thermostats can be programmed with your smartphone, too. Just download the app, connect it to your thermostat, and you’ll have all sorts of data at your fingertips. You can even change the temperature at home when you’re out and about or reset your home heating and cooling schedule from work.

Improve Home Efficiency

Programmable thermostats allow you to have ultimate control over your home’s temperature. You can set it to be comfortable while you’re home, then let the system rest while you’re gone. Some units can also get a feeling for your patterns and habits, anticipate them, and set the thermostat accordingly. All of these mean that your heating and cooling systems are not working as hard, as long, or as often, which makes them more energy-efficient and saves you cash. In fact, many of these thermostats pay for themselves in energy savings quickly.

Add to Comfort

With a programmable thermostat, you’ll never have to be uncomfortable at home again. You can still turn your heating or cooling off during the day, when you’re gone, but have it turn on in time to make the house comfortable before you get home. Avoid that awful transition period with a programmable thermostat.

You can even change your plans and still stay comfortable at home. Just use your phone to override the thermostat’s programming and your house will be ready for you when you get there.

Offer Vast Control Options

The sky is the limit when it comes to the control options on most of these units. Set each day differently, change the temperature every other week, and more! There’s not much you can’t do with a programmable thermostat.

If you want to save money on energy and have a thermostat that is simple and straightforward for anyone to use, consider a programmable thermostat today. Call us at Greenway for more information or to schedule your installation. We’ll be there soon to help you improve your comfort and save your cash.

What You Need to Know About R22 Refrigerant

January 21, 2019 by zakkleifeste

ICON_PLACEHOLDEREstimated reading time: 5 minutes

What is R22 Refrigerant?

What is R22 Refrigerant?

R22, also known as Freon, is a substance used as a refrigerant in a variety of appliances that creates a cooling effect when it evaporates. Freon is used in HVAC systems, refrigerators, and even vehicles as a coolant. When air is circulated through your home or vehicle’s air conditioning system or your refrigerator, a coolant is what actually creates the cool sensation of the air.

Why is R22 being banned?

Because R22 is a chlorofluorocarbon, or CFC, it can have an impact on the atmosphere’s sensitive ozone layer which protects the earth, and people, from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. Research suggests the excessive use of chlorofluorocarbons over the last few decades has contributed to a depletion of ozone, which can contribute to global warming. If the ozone layer were to cease to exist, it would be difficult for plants, animals, and people to survive the sun’s intense heat and radiation.

READ MORE: How Can I Protect My Home From Intruders?

How does Freon hurt the ozone layer?

If Freon is not properly handled by a licensed HVAC contractor, it can be released into the atmosphere, where it can eventually make its way to the ozone layer. To prevent this from happening, HVAC contractors are required to harvest Freon using federal guidelines and standards. If an HVAC contractor releases Freon into the air without disposing of it according to standard procedures and laws, both he and you could be held accountable. Both HVAC contractors and homeowners can face hefty fines as well as the loss of an HVAC license if proper procedures are not followed.

Is R22 refrigerant still available? When does R22 become illegal?

While Freon is still available for use following proper guidelines and procedures, efforts are being made to phase out the refrigerant in favor of more environmentally-friendly substances. The Environmental Protection Agency has designated January 1, 2020 as the first day in which R22, or Freon, will become illegal. After this date, Freon will no longer be available, and safer alternatives will be required.

READ MORE: Is Smart Home Technology Worth It?

What is the replacement for R22 refrigerant?

R-410A, also known as Puron, is already available for use as a safer alternative to R22 refrigerant. For more than 20 years, Puron has been available for use in air conditioning systems and other household appliances, but until recently, Freon was the most widely used type of refrigerant. Unlike Freon, Puron does not release harmful chemicals that can deplete the earth’s ozone layer. Efforts are already being made by homeowners and the HVAC industry to move to Puron as a safer yet just as effective alternative.

What do I do when it’s time to replace my Freon or R22 refrigerant?

When it’s time to purchase a new air conditioning unit, keep in mind that after January 1, 2020, Freon will become illegal. If your air conditioner, refrigerator, other other appliance is in need of refrigerant before this date, it’s still a good idea to request Puron as an alternative. If your unit does not use Puron, you’ll need to invest in a new air conditioning unit.

READ MORE: 3 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

What do I do when it’s time to replace my air conditioning unit?

Freon and Puron are not interchangeable within an HVAC system, so choosing a unit that utilizes Puron before January 2020 is ideal, since purchasing a Freon system now means you’ll still have to invest in a Puron system later. While many HVAC models that use Freon are currently ceasing production or already have been phased out, some are still available, so choose wisely if you don’t want to incur additional costs soon. A licensed HVAC contractor can help you find a Puron system that works for you.

Do Puron HVAC units cost more than Freon HVAC units?

If you’re worried a Puron system will be more expensive to operate, or if you’re dreaded upgrading your HVAC system, here’s the good news. While HVAC units that use Puron have price points very similar to Freon units, those that run on Puron will cost less to operate in the long run, since they’re more energy efficient, and because it is cheaper to refill your unit with Puron than with Freon. Because Puron is more efficient, you’ll see the same results with less refills required, all while protecting the environment.

READ MORE: 5 Ways to Save Money on Utility Bills

Where do I buy a Puron air conditioning unit?

When it’s time to replace your air conditioning system, give Greenway a call. Our licensed HVAC operators can help you find the right HVAC system for you. We offer competitive pricing on a variety of models, including Trane and other quality systems. We also offer affordable pricing plans through Wells Fargo.

How Do I Keep My Pipes from Freezing?

December 11, 2018 by zakkleifeste

Why do pipes freeze?

Pipes freeze when water expands due to the formation of ice during freezing temperatures. This expansion leads to blockages which cause water pressure to build up.

How can I keep my pipes from freezing?

The reality is that even well-insulated pipes can become exposed to cold air through tiny cracks and crevices, and even the most diligent of homeowners can find themselves without running water due to frozen and busted pipes.

There are, however, a few ways to help prevent your pipes from freezing, and it’s worth your while to take some time preparing for the winter months to do everything you can to protect them.

Trust us – it’s far less expensive to invest in extra insulation and a routine plumbing inspection than to pay for the cost of repairs for broken pipes and plumbing systems!

SCHEDULE A PLUMBING INSPECTION TO CHECK FOR DAMAGE AND PREVENT FROZEN PIPES

Let Faucets Drip

You’ve probably heard this one before, but allowing faucets to drip really can prevent pipes from bursting, and it’s one of the easiest and most affordable solutions for doing so. Allowing faucets to drip slowly doesn’t raise energy costs to an alarming rate, but it does allow water to move continuously through your plumbing system to prevent water pressure from building up during blockages caused by ice formation and water expansion.

Keep the Heat On

Keeping the heat on 24/7 may not be an option for you, but if possible, allow your home to remain heated in order to prevent pipes from being exposed to below freezing temperatures without any heat protection.

READ MORE: Energy Efficient Holiday Decor

Check for Damage

If you live in the northern regions of the United States, your home likely has pipes inside the house to help prevent cold weather damage, but pipes located in attics, crawl spaces, basements, and in outside walls are still at risk of freezing and becoming blocked, which can lead to damage. Before the cold weather sets in each year, and periodically over the winter, check to ensure pipes are not damaged and that no holes or cracks are allowing cold air to seep into those areas where pipes can become exposed to below freezing temperatures. Pay special attention to areas where telephone, cable, and satellite wires enter and exit your home and around your eaves and roof.

I NEED A PLUMBER TO MAKE SURE MY PIPES AREN’T DAMAGED

Add Extra Insulation

Pipes that are well insulated from cold temperatures with durable, long-lasting insulation or those that have added insulation and protection during winter months are far less likely to burst. If your home is undergoing any amount of redesign or renovations, consider adding extra insulation to your pipes to prevent them from bursting, and if necessary, purchase pipe insulating materials from your local home improvement or hardware store to help protect your pipes from below freezing temperatures during the winter months.

READ MORE: 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Heating System

Move to Hawaii

If all else fails, and the cold weather and freezing temperatures are just too much for you and your plumbing system, there’s always Hawaii. For those of us who have to stay in the Mid-South, having a plumbing expert on call can help prevent unwanted disasters caused by busted pipes.

When should I call a plumber?

If you suspect your pipes may be damaged or frozen, call a plumber immediately. A professional plumber has the tools and equipment necessary to inspect pipes with a small camera that can indicate exactly if and where pipe damage may be located.

If you have an emergency, give us a call at 901-245-5710, and our experienced, friendly technicians will be at your door as soon as possible. Stay warm this winter!

GREENWAY PLUMBING SERVICES

Guide to Winterizing Your Home

December 11, 2018 by zakkleifeste

A small snowman with twig arms standing in a snowy yard, symbolizing winter preparation and home winterization tips.

5 Ways to Winterize Your Home This Year

Protect Your Pipes

The first area to look at when you winterize your home is your plumbing system. When water freezes in your plumbing system, it can cause blockages that prevent water from flowing freely throughout the areas in and around your home. This can lead to a buildup of water pressure that can cause pipes to burst or break and become severely damaged. In order to prevent busted pipes, add extra insulation to exposed pipes and let your faucets slowly drip to prevent standing water from freezing.

READ MORE: How Do I Keep My Pipes From Freezing?

Clean Gutters

Cleaning your gutters before winter weather sets in is important for many reasons, but it may not be obvious that clogged gutters can actually cause foundation problems. When rainwater collects in gutters, it is transported to specific areas of your yard that prevent pooling. When water collects, it can not only damage your yard and cause added stress from muddy paws and footprints – it can also seep into the foundation of your home and cause structural damage. Cleaning your gutters is important year-round, but it’s a good idea to clean them in October or November before freezing temperatures set in to prevent slipping and falling on ice.

READ MORE: Energy Efficient Holiday Decor

Drain Water Hoses

It’s easy to forget to ensure your water hoses are not filled with water during the winter months when you rarely utilize them. Don’t forget this important step if you want to do everything you can to protect your home from winter weather. Drain water hoses to ensure water does not freeze and expand and cause blockages which can lead to busted pipes.

Add Insulation

Add insulation to your exposed pipes, outdoor water spouts and valves, and in your attic to prevent high utility costs and to provide a buffer from the freezing temperatures which can wreak havoc on your comfort level and your plumbing system. You can purchase insulation for your pipes water spouts at home improvement stores or hardware stores.

Check for Damage and Leaks

Checking for damage and leaks should be on your rotation of home chores throughout the year, but it’s especially important to check for damage, holes, and leaks that can allow cold air to waft in, which can lead to rising utility costs and heating expenses, frozen pipes, HVAC system damage, and more. Do a thorough inspection of your roof, attic, crawl spaces, basement, and exterior walls at least once per month and more frequently during winter months if possible. If you notice cold drafts, seal any cracks and crevices and repair any damage as soon as possible. If you suspect damage to your plumbing system, call a plumber as soon as possible.

Need plumbing help before you winterize your home? Contact Greenway Home Services today!

CALL A PLUMBER

Energy Efficient Holiday Decor

November 7, 2018 by zakkleifeste

Decorating with Energy Efficient Holiday Decor

Holiday decor doesn’t have to involve energy-zapping lights and electrical items. A Christmas tree without lights and a few simple decorative accents can go a long way in creating a warm and cozy holiday theme without spending an excessive amount of time and money on decorating. One way to save time, energy, and money on holiday decor is by investing in energy efficient items that won’t blow your budget or significantly increase your utility bill. There are a variety of ways to incorporate energy efficient decor into your home. You can purchase energy efficient holiday decor from a retailer, or you can choose to decorate with unique items that don’t require electricity. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Simple, Rustic Holiday Decor

Many people are embracing a holiday season more focused on the family and less focused on consumerism and excessive spending. As a nod to the Christmas traditions, many are also choosing to utilize simple and rustic holiday decor that is both energy efficient and easy to put up and take down. Simple holiday traditions like creating homemade Christmas tree ornaments from a mixture of flour, salt, and water and fun. Family activities like building a gingerbread house or watching holiday-themed movies together are also great options These choices are far more likely to leave lasting memories than an excessive number of holiday decorations.

READ MORE: 3 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Alternative Christmas Trees

One way to create a festive and welcoming holiday environment that doesn’t utilize an excessive amount of energy is to create unique holiday decor that doesn’t require electricity. One way people are choosing to bring the holidays inside the home without the use of extra electricity is by creating alternative Christmas trees. One alternative Christmas tree idea gaining popularity thanks to Pinterest is the Christmas tree created from books. Other household items can also be repurposed into Christmas trees, including ladders, branches, pine cones, and more.

Holiday Tableware

Using festive dishes and flatware is another way to bring the holiday spirit to your home without the use of electricity. Many home decor stores sell holiday-themed flatware and tableware at affordable prices during and shortly after the holidays. Stock up on a few pieces that can be used throughout the holiday season and passed down to children and grandchildren in the future.

Evergreen Decor

Evergreen wreaths and garlands with or without lights can be added to your mantle, windows and doors, tables, along stair railings and banisters, and throughout various other places in your home.

Poinsettias

Poinsettias are another great way to add some holiday spirit throughout your home. Keep in mind, however, poinsettias may cause nausea, vomiting, and other concerns in pets and children if ingested. So keep these holiday plants in areas not accessible by dogs, cats, and babies.

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Where to Shop for Energy-Efficient Holiday Decor

Home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot as well as big-box stores like Target and Walmart offer a large selection of energy-efficient holiday decor items. You can also find a variety of wreaths, garland, ornaments, and festive decor at craft stores like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. Online retailers like Amazon also offer simple, rustic holiday decor on a budget.