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Is your air conditioner not cooling? From refrigerant leaks to a malfunctioning compressor, these are five reasons why your air conditioner isn’t cooling and ways you can troubleshoot and prevent the issue. When turning down your thermostat, you expect your air conditioner to supply fresh, cold air at the push of a button. Like other mechanical systems, your AC unit relies on a series of interactions between parts to produce cool air. If one of these parts doesn’t do its job, the air conditioner won’t work. Here are some common reasons why your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home. 5 Reasons an Air Conditioner Stops Cooling1. The Thermostat Is Set IncorrectlyFor the thermostat to be effective, you need to make sure that it’s on the correct setting. The thermostat should be set to “cool” and “auto,” not simply “on.” “Auto” runs the air conditioner and circulates cool air as needed, whereas “on” runs the air conditioner at all times, even when cool air is not being produced. 2. You Have a Dirty Air FilterThe filter in your air conditioner traps harmful and irritating contaminants like dust, pollen, and mold spores. Over time and without proper cleaning, air filters can become clogged and prevent air from properly passing through. Additionally, when clogged air filters trap cool air inside the unit, the evaporator coil is at risk of freezing, which could restrict air flow. 3. There Is a Refrigerant LeakThe air handler, the interior part of your air conditioner, is home to the evaporator coil that is responsible for cooling your home. Warm air from inside is absorbed through the evaporator coil and transforms into a gaseous state. The result of this heat absorption is cool, dry air that is then pushed throughout the house through the unit’s blower and air ducts. To keep the process continuous, the compressor puts the gas refrigerant under intense pressure, releasing the excess heat outside and transforming the gaseous refrigerant back into a cool liquid with the help of the condenser. The evaporator coil can then create more cool air by starting the process over again. When there’s a leak in the refrigerant line, some of the fluid is lost during its cyclical transformation process, resulting in an inadequate amount of cool air being produced. 4. The Evaporator Coil Is Dirty and FreezesThe evaporator coil contains the refrigerant that cools your home. The coil absorbs heat from inside your home, pushing cool air to the blower and transforming the refrigerant to a gaseous state. If your evaporator coil is too dirty, this can prevent the amount of heat it can absorb, causing the cold evaporator to freeze over and disrupt the cooling process. A frozen evaporator coil can also freeze due to a refrigerant leak. When refrigerant levels drop, so does the temperature which can freeze the entire evaporator coil. 5. The Air Conditioner Compressor Isn’t Working ProperlyYour compressor pumps refrigerant from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. As the liquid refrigerant moves into your home, it enters the evaporator where it absorbs your home’s heat and produces the air flow felt from your vents. Once the refrigerant fully vaporizes, it brings all the absorbed heat back to the compressor. From there, the excess heat is transferred outside and the refrigerant returns to a liquid with the help of the condenser, starting the process all over again. If the compressor breaks down, the refrigerant can’t undergo its eventual cooling process, with the result being warm air pumped throughout your home. How to Maintain Your Air ConditionerWhen it comes to AC repair and maintenance, there are a few tasks you can tackle on your own. Before performing any DIY air conditioner maintenance, ensure your unit is completely powered off. This can be done through the exterior shut-off box or your home’s breaker box. Clean your outdoor unitThe central air conditioner unit you see outside of your home houses the condenser and compressor. After turning off the unit and removing the top cover, remove any noticeable debris lodged inside. We recommend using gloves when reaching inside of your unit to prevent cuts from sharp parts or objects. If you want a more thorough clean, you can wipe the fan located inside the unit with a damp cloth and spray the fins that surround the unit with a garden hose. Clean the evaporator coilThe evaporator coil should be regularly cleaned using a soft brush and coil cleaner. This will help maintain evaporator coil efficiency and keep your unit operating smoothly. To clean your evaporator coil, first ensure your unit is completely off. Then, locate your unit’s air handler, usually situated in a closet or attic. Remove the air handler’s access panel and spray no-rinse coil cleaner directly onto the evaporator coil. Use a nylon or paint brush to gently brush off debris before replacing the access panel. Change the blower filterWhen a filter is clogged, cool air can’t reach your home. To maintain cool, clean air throughout your home, change your blower filter at least twice a year. Read More: 5 Essential Steps for Window AC Upkeep When to Call In a Professional HVAC ServiceWith a little time and effort, you can maintain your cooling system through regular cleaning and maintenance. However, when it comes to mechanical breakdowns and technical questions, maintenance is best left to the professionals. Here’s when you should call an HVAC technician:
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In this article, we discuss the cost of installing a water heater, the different types of water heaters available, and the warning signs that point to a failing system. Clean, hot water has become a comfort in almost every household. While the need for hot water in a house is unchanging, the way in which it’s heated isn’t, with various tanks and fuel sources available to homeowners. Whether purchasing a water heater for a new home or replacing a broken one, it’s important to understand the types of water heaters available to you and how much they cost. Tank vs. Tankless Water HeatersTank and tankless water heaters are two of the most common types of water heaters available. Tank Water HeatersStorage tank water heaters are a popular choice for homeowners, constantly holding and heating gallons of water. Water heaters are installed out of sight, oftentimes in a garage, basement, or utility closet. To heat the water, tank water heaters typically use electricity or natural gas. Storage tank water heaters are easier to install than their tankless counterparts, requiring about three hours of labor. Established as the conventional water heater that’s easy to install, storage tank heaters are less expensive than tankless systems, running between $820–$1,290. Although a more affordable option, tank heaters are less energy-efficient since they constantly run to maintain the desired tank temperature. As a result, these tanks have higher utility bills and a shorter lifespan. Tankless Water HeatersTankless water heaters work by heating water as needed. The system uses a gas burner or electricity to heat the water pipe, supplying water on demand. Like a hot water storage tank, a tankless unit can be stored in a basement or utility closet. Smaller than a tank unit, tankless heaters can also be mounted to a bathroom or bedroom wall. Tankless water heaters have a higher initial price compared to tank heaters, costing homeowners around $1,200–$3,500. The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For electrical tankless heaters, new electric wiring will need to be installed. Although the installation of tankless heaters is less affordable than traditional models, they’re more efficient and incur a lower energy cost than their counterparts. Additionally, these water heaters last longer, with a typical lifespan of about 20 years. Gas vs. Electric Water HeatersGas and electrical models are available for both tankless and tank water heaters, each providing homeowners with unique pros and cons. Electric Water HeatersAn electric tank is less expensive to purchase and install than a gas tank, with a residential 50-gallon tank water heater priced around $500. However, the total cost of the monthly operation tends to be more expensive than that of a gas heater. This heat source is considered safer than gas, as there’s a smaller risk of a leak or combustion. The downside to a more environmentally friendly electric heater is that if the power goes out, so does the hot water. Gas Water HeatersGas heaters are more expensive to purchase at around $700 for a 50-gallon tank. However, the operational cost of these heaters costs less than an electric model. Although natural gas is more apt to combust or leak, a gas model provides hot water without electricity. The biggest downside to a gas water heater is its harm to the environment through the emission of carbon dioxide. Read More: A Guide to the Best Water Heater Warranty Energy-Efficient Storage Tank Water HeatersIf you want to be more environmentally conscious, consider these energy-efficient water heaters. Solar Water Tank HeatersThese water heaters use natural sunlight to heat water. A solar water heater system consists of a storage tank that holds water and solar collectors that generate heat. Typically, a solar water heater relies on a traditional water tank in case of an emergency. Solar water tank systems can be broken down into two types: active systems and passive systems. An active system uses a pump to supply homes with water, while a passive system uses natural convection to circulate water throughout the home. Homeowners can expect to pay around $2,000 for a passive system and $3,000 for an active system. The higher cost is due to the extensive labor and need for a back-up water heater. Indirect Water HeatersIndirect water heaters use the energy from an existing furnace or boiler to heat water in the tank. To do this, water from the boiler is circulated into the tank’s coils, heating the water inside. This water heater model is energy efficient, relying on heat created by a boiler or furnace. Although the monthly price of an indirect water heater is low, the initial purchase and water heater installation cost is more expensive than traditional heaters and is priced around $1,500. Signs of a Failing Water HeaterIf you currently have a water heater, look out for warning signs that point to a water heater replacement.
Read more: How to Maintain a Water Heater Selecting Your Water HeaterWhen choosing the right water heater for your home, keep these factors in mind:
Frequently Asked Questions About Water HeatersHow long does it take a new hot water heater to work?After installation, it takes a gas heater around 40 minutes to fully heat up while an electric heater can take an hour or longer. The time it takes for the heater to start providing your home with hot water also depends on the size and type of water heater. How many hours a day does a water heater run?The runtime of a water heater depends on the size, model, and fuel source. Typically a tankless water heater runs around an hour a day, while a tank water heater may run four hours or more. If you notice that your water heater is running more than usual, call a certified plumber to inspect your heater for any problems. How much does it cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater?A 50-gallon water heater costs around $1,000 for an electric heater and $1,200 for a natural gas heater of the same capacity. When You Should Call a Plumbing ProfessionalIf your water heater is experiencing any signs of decline, or unexpectedly breaks down, it’s recommended to call a professional. While you could choose to replace a water heater as one of your home improvement projects, the intense labor and comprehensive knowledge of installing a system makes water heater repairs and replacement a job better suited for a plumber. Adobe
In this article, we’ve compiled important information on how to identify, respond to, and prevent natural gas leaks. Natural gas is one of the cleanest and safest fossil fuels used within the home, powering gas appliances and systems such as the stove and water heater. Since natural gas is odorless and tasteless, a harmless substance called mercaptan is added into it so that a leak can be detected. Unlike smoke or carbon monoxide that relies on alarms to detect the presence of gas or smoke, a natural gas leak is detected through sights, sounds, and smells. Identifying a Natural Gas LeakAlthough natural gas isn’t toxic, a leak increases the risk of fire or combustion, making it important to identify the gas and find the source so that the appropriate safety precautions are followed. Rotten Egg SmellMercaptan is an additive in natural gas that produces an odor similar to rotten eggs or cabbage. If you smell this odor in the home, you could have a natural gas leak. If a faint, similar smell is coming from the bathroom, you could have a different problem. Sewer gas can leak into your home through a broken toilet seal or unused drain pipe. To diagnose a sewer gas issue in the bathroom, contact a plumber. Continuous Bubbling in Standing WaterIf standing water outside your home is bubbling, there could be a leak in your outdoor gas line. This is the effect of water dissolving the leaking natural gas, resulting in visible bubbles. Roaring or Hissing SoundNatural gas can softly hiss or roar as it escapes from a leaking pipe. Usually, the source of the leak is the natural gas connection at the back of an appliance, in which case you’ll most likely be able to smell the gas leaking indoors. Dead PlantsIf there’s a leak in the outside gas line leading to your home, dead or dying plants could signal an issue. When natural gas leaks into your lawn, it displaces the oxygen necessary for the plant’s roots to survive. If you notice dead plants in your yard despite proper gardening care, you could have a natural gas leak. Unnatural Dirt and Air MovementThe pressure released by a leak in your natural gas line can cause an unusual amount of air to blow across your yard. If there isn’t a noticeable natural breeze and you see dirt blowing out of your yard or air blowing across plants, you could have a natural gas leak. Health EffectsThough natural gas is non-toxic, prolonged exposure to its properties can cause a noticeable decline in health. As natural gas continuously leaks into your home, it can affect your sense of smell and displace oxygen, causing breathing difficulties, headaches, and nausea. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and aren’t suffering from a separate illness or underlying condition, there’s a possibility you have a gas leak. What to Do If You Smell Natural GasIf you think you’re experiencing a gas leak, follow these steps:
Read More: Staying Safe with Natural Gas How to Prevent Natural Gas LeaksAlthough you can’t always stop a natural gas leak, there are some precautions you can take to minimize the risk of a leak.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas LeaksWhat does a gas leak smell like in your house?Natural gas is odorless, but a substance known as mercaptan is added to your natural gas so that it gives off a pungent rotten egg smell. If you notice this odor in your home, it’s possible you have a natural gas leak. Who pays for a gas leak?It’s often misunderstood that utility companies pay for the repair of a leak in a gas line. You are responsible for paying for the repair and damages caused by gas appliances or lights leaking. Thankfully, some home warranty companies, such as American Home Shield, cover leaks and breaks in gas lines. What should you do if you smell gas?If you suspect a natural gas leak and smell something similar to rotten eggs, open the doors and windows, turn off any pilot lights, exit your home, and contact 911 or your gas provider. For more severe leaks, leave the property immediately before contacting the appropriate authorities. “Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine for the soul” – Luther Burbank Every morning I’ve been going out to my garden to sip my coffee. The smell of jasmine wafting through the air always gives a little boost to my mood. It’s good to have these […]
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In this article, we describe the most common types of plumbing pipes and how they’re used within your home’s plumbing system. The plumbing pipes that carry water to your kitchen faucet or drain waste to your sewage system have evolved over time. The galvanized iron or steel pipes that were a staple to in-home plumbing during the early 1900s gave way to more advanced plumbing solutions, such as polyvinyl chloride piping (PVC) and polyethylene cross-linked (PEX) piping. Keep reading to learn about the most common plumbing pipes you can find in your home. 1. PVC PipesPVC is a plumbing pipe known for its versatility, lightweight, and blockage resistance. PVC piping is generally used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line, though it’s sometimes used as a home’s main water supply pipe. Pros
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Read More: How to Identify PVC Pipes and Fittings 2. PEX PipesPEX is an affordable plastic plumbing solution that can withstand both hot and cold water and is commonly used for water supply lines. Pros
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3. ABS PipesAcrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) piping is a type of plastic piping that’s similar to PVC and distinguishable by its black color. Known for its long lifespan, ABS is used only for drain and waste piping. Pros
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4. Copper PipesCopper piping lasts for over 50 years and is the standard hard pipe within the plumbing industry. It’s able to withstand high water pressure and comes in various grades of thickness, separated into two categories: rigid and flexible copper pipes. A rigid copper pipe is typically used for water supply lines, whereas flexible copper pipes are used in tight spaces where the malleable copper can bend. Pros
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5. Cast Iron and Galvanized PipingAlthough cast iron and galvanized piping are rarely installed in new construction homes, you may have these pipes if you have an older home that was built in the early 20th century. A cast-iron pipe is strong and durable and is still used today for parts of water distribution systems. Cast iron pipes are heat-resistant and reduce the sound of moving water. Both pipes are prone to rust and corrosion over time and have been swapped for copper or plastic pipes in residential plumbing repairs. Frequently Asked Questions About Plumbing PipesWhat are the different types of pipes used in plumbing?The most common plumbing pipes you’ll find inside a home are PVC, PEX, ABS, copper, or galvanized steel pipe. How often does plumbing need to be replaced?The frequency in which you need to replace pipes is based on the pipe material used. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a lifespan of up to 100 years, copper can last over 50 years, and PEX and PVC usually last around 50 years. If you live in a newer home, you probably don’t have to worry about replacing your pipes, however, if you live in an older home, consider having your plumbing system checked every two years to ensure it’s holding up. What causes plumbing pipes to vibrate?Pipes vibrate due to what’s called the “hammer” effect. This happens when water is abruptly turned off, resulting in the thumping and vibrating sound heard throughout the house. Adobe
Intact sewer and water lines are essential to a clean and comfortable home. Read on to learn what causes sewer lines to break and how they are repaired or replaced. A sewer line backup or leak can be frustrating to deal with as a homeowner. Along with the unpleasant smell and messy cleanup of a compromised sewer pipe, it can be difficult to pinpoint the root cause of your sewage problem. To help prevent sewer line damage or mitigate an issue when it arises, it’s important to know how to spot the main causes of sewer line damage. Here are the common causes of a damaged sewer line, signs to look for, and how you can repair or replace your sewer system. Causes of Sewer Line DamageFrom clogged pipes to normal wear and tear, here are a few causes of sewer line damage. Tree RootsOne of the most common causes of sewer line damage is tree roots. A tree’s roots follow sources of water as they grow. Since sewer lines carry liquid waste, roots are naturally attracted to the source. Once in contact with a sewer pipe, tree roots begin to wrap around and break into pipes, clogging, weakening, and even breaking the structure. Clay sewer pipes, typically found in older homes, are the most susceptible to damage from tree roots. Corroded PipesAlthough pipes made of steel and cast iron are galvanized to prevent rusting, these pipes are at a high risk of corroding due to calcium and magnesium build-up from regular wear and tear. If corrosion is left untreated, it can leave the pipe susceptible to leaks and cracks. Clogged Pipes Due to Debris and Foreign ObjectsYour home’s sewage lines are only equipped to handle human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing trash like wrappers and paper towels, as they’re unable to properly disintegrate and can cause blockages that drain cleaning agents can’t fix. In the kitchen, cooking oil and grease can also clog pipes if they’re poured into the sink. Pour these liquids into a container, let them cool, and then dispose of them in a trash can. Read More: How to Clear a Clogged Drain Extreme TemperaturesDuring extreme temperature and cold weather, frozen pipes can bust as a result of the expanding ice. However, it’s not just cold weather that can cause pipes to rupture—though unlikely, extreme heat can burst pipes, too. Signs of Sewer Line DamageTo prevent further damage, it’s important to know the signs of a damaged sewer system so that you can take immediate action and contact an experienced service technician. Flooded or Foul-Smelling YardA yard that’s flooded can be a sign of a broken sewer pipe. Sewer lines can be buried anywhere between a couple of feet to six feet below the ground, with colder climates calling for deeper pipes. For sewer lines close to the surface, a broken pipe can quickly begin to pool water which seeps through the grass and becomes visible on the surface. You may be able to smell the sewage before it surfaces, as sewage gas can seep through your yard’s soil. Draining DifficultiesWhile some blockages are caused by a pipe leading directly from a faucet or shower, you can detect a blockage in the main sewage line if multiple draining areas in the home are clogging. Toilets can warn of severe blockages if strange gurgling sounds occur when air gets pushed back up the line. Water Damage in the HomeWater damage can occur if a drain line leaks or breaks in the home. One of the first signs is mold spreading on the floors or walls. This could point to a broken sewer line within the home, in which case you should call a plumbing service immediately. Sewer Line Repair and ReplacementIf your sewer line springs a leak or breaks and needs to be repaired, you have two options: Dig a trench around the sewer pipe or use trenchless sewer line repairs. A trenchless sewer repair is time and cost-effective while requiring little to no digging. To start the process, technicians use a video camera to enter into the sewer line and recommend repairs. Then, one of two plumbing repairs is usually recommended: 1. Pipe lining—If the damage to your sewage pipe is minimal, pipe lining can be used to insert an inflatable tube covered in epoxy into your sewer line. From there, the tube is inflated, pressing against the existing line. While it’s up against the existing sewage line, the epoxy cures and hardens, repairing the leak. The inflatable tube can then be removed and the sewer line repaired. 2. Pipe bursting—When a sewer line is too damaged to use the pipe lining technique, a more invasive trenchless repair can be performed. Technicians feed a cone-shaped bit through your existing line and destroy the pipe while immediately replacing it with a new one. This process is more expensive and less time-effective, but it doesn’t require extensive excavation. If your pipes are damaged beyond repair, you may have to resort to traditional sewer line replacement methods. This is an extremely invasive and costly method that requires technicians to dig up your yard to reveal the damaged or broken lines. However, excavation is necessary if your home’s sewage system has extensive damage. How to Protect Your Sewer LinesAlthough not all sewer line damage is preventable, here are three steps you can take to care for your sewage system: 1. Receive sewer line inspections once a year--To confirm that your sewage system is in good working condition, hire a professional to conduct an inspection at least once a year. Some plumbing companies offer a camera inspection so that the inside of your sewer pipe can be checked for corrosion or blockages. 2. Remove trees that are damaging the sewer line--If a tree is damaging your sewer line, you should remove the tree before the sewer problem worsens. 3. Use your sewage system properly--Remember to only dispose of human waste and toilet paper in the sewer lines; any other materials that enter the system can cause blockages. Sewer Line Repair FAQHow long will a sewer line last?The life of your sewer line depends on your pipe’s material. Cast iron pipes last between 75–100 years, clay and cement pipes can last up to 100 years, orangeburg pipes last around 50 years, and PVC pipes can last over 100 years. Does homeowners insurance cover sewer line damage?Unless your sewer line was damaged by another party, it’s unlikely that homeowner’s insurance will cover the damages. Fortunately, many home warranty companies give you the ability to protect your sewer lines through septic system coverage. How long does trenchless sewer line repair last?Trenchless sewer repairs like pipe bursting and pipe lining are minimally invasive sewer pipe repairs that are known for their longevity. The amount of time the repair lasts depends on your pipe’s material and method used; however, most trenchless sewer line repairs last up to 50 years. Getty
If you live in a rural area or are planning on building a new home in the countryside, you may need a septic system. Read this article to learn more about the process and cost of septic system installation. A septic system contains an underground septic tank made of plastic, concrete, fiberglass, or other material to treat and dispose of sewage. This system is designed to provide an individualized wastewater treatment option for commercial and residential areas. Although you can install your own septic tank, we recommend professional installation due to the amount of expertise and specialized equipment needed. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of septic systems available to homeowners and the process and cost behind installation. Who Needs a Septic Tank?In densely populated parts of the country, a home’s plumbing system usually connects directly to the municipal sewer line. For more rural areas, municipal sewer lines aren’t available so sewage is treated with a septic tank. If you’re moving into a new construction home or onto land without a pre-existing tank, you’ll be responsible for installing a septic system. How to Prepare for Your Septic Tank InstallationTo ensure septic tank installation goes smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Receive Multiple EstimatesPrior to any excavation or signed paperwork, receive estimates from licensed septic tank installers and read reviews about each company using trusted, third-party consumer reviews. Ensure the contractor you select holds the proper insurance and licensing and includes necessary preparations like excavation and drain field testing in their estimate. Test the Soil and Obtain a PermitSeptic systems rely on permeable soil surrounding the tank to absorb and naturally treat liquid residue so that it doesn’t contaminate runoff water or leak into the water table. This area is known as the drain or leach field. Before installing a septic tank, you’re legally obligated to obtain a percolation or “perc” test. This test confirms the soil meets requirements set by the city and local health department. Usually, the soil is required to have adequate amounts of permeable contents like sand or gravel. Once the land passes the percolation test, you’ll be able to obtain a permit and start the installation process. Note: If you want to put a septic tank on a piece of land, it must pass the percolation test. We recommend ordering a test before purchasing the land you want to use for residential purposes. Plan for ExcavationHeavy equipment is needed to excavate the large amount of land necessary for a septic tank. If you currently reside on the land, make sure to budget landscaping costs to fix any damage incurred during excavation. If you’re building a new home, schedule the excavation at a time when it’ll have minimal impact on the construction process. Typically, this is before paving the driveways and sidewalks, but after the main frame of the home is built. The Cost of Installing a Septic TankFrom a percolation test to emptying the septic tank, there are a few installation costs and other fees associated with installing your new septic system. Percolation TestDepending on the size of the land and soil conditions, a percolation test can cost anywhere from $250–$1,000. Typically, professionals only dig a few holes in the proposed leach field area, but if a land survey is needed to determine where to excavate, your test’s cost can increase. Building Permit ApplicationTo build a septic tank on your land, you’ll need to obtain a permit. Permit pricing varies from state to state, but they usually cost around $200 and are typically renewed every few years. Excavation and InstallationAfter passing a percolation test and receiving a building permit, your septic tank is ready to be properly installed. The price of your new septic system is based on the size of your home, type of system selected, and your septic tank material. Below is a list of various treatment systems and tanks available and the standard prices associated with each. Types of Septic Tank SystemsConventional septic system A conventional septic system uses gravity to move household sewage into the septic tank. From there, sewage is separated into layers, with solid waste settling at the bottom and liquid sewage rising to the top. When liquid sewage rises to the level of the outflow pipe, the liquid waste flows into the drain field where it’s decomposed further. These conventional septic systems are usually the most affordable, with an average cost of around $3,000. Alternative septic system An alternative septic system collects sewage in the same way as a conventional system, but it breaks down the sewage in the tank using oxygen instead of naturally occurring bacteria. Drain fields for alternative systems generally need less land and release cleaner wastewater. However, this benefit comes at an increase in cost, with systems usually priced around $12,000. Engineered septic system Engineered septic systems are the most complex and are generally needed due to poor soil or the home being situated on an uphill slope. Just like alternative and conventional septic systems, engineered systems collect and separate waste in a tank. Instead of relying on gravity to drain, the liquid waste needs to be pumped into the leach field so that it’s evenly distributed throughout the land. These systems generally cost around $8,000. Types of Septic Tanks
Read More: Septic Warranty Coverage and Costs Using Your Septic TankWhen using your new septic tank, make sure to care for the land around the leach field and regularly inspect your tank using its lids. Never use a garbage disposal with your septic tank, as it can clog up the system. Additionally, avoid driving over the ground that houses the septic tank or placing heavy machinery on your septic tank or drain field. Typically, you’ll need to schedule for the system to be cleaned and pumped after five years of septic system use. This prevents solid waste from building up and leaking into the surrounding soil or groundwater. Adobe
Before installing new washing machine hoses, it’s important to know your options, how to install the lines, and preventive maintenance measures you can take. Read on for the ultimate guide to washing machine hoses. Washing machine hoses connect your top or front load washing machine with the valve that supplies water to each wash cycle. While necessary for your washing machine, the two water supply lines aren’t burst-proof and are one of the most common causes of water damage in the home. For this reason, washer hoses need to be properly installed and maintained to stay intact and functional. Why Washing Machine Hoses Leak
How to Select Your Washing Machine HosesWhen selecting washing machine hoses, safety and durability should be considered. Typically, washing machines hoses fall under three categories:
How to Install Washing Machine HosesWhether installing reinforced rubber or steel braided washing machine hoses, these are the steps necessary to install your new washing machine hoses.
Preventative Care TipsTo help maintain your washing machine hoses, follow these simple tips:
Do you love the look of wall murals, but are too hesitant to commit to the permanence of paint or wallpaper? This project will give you the look of a mural, without the commitment. To get the look of a mural, I’m stretching fabric over the DIY frame inspired by this oversized sign by Sawdust 2 Stitches. To save on cost, I’m swapping fabric for a graphic shower curtain layered over a basic drop cloth I picked up at the home center. One thing to note when sizing the frame is the opening to the space where it will be installed. The height of a typical door opening is 80-inches tall, so anything larger than that size will possibly need extra bracing and need to be assembled in the area it will be installed. Steps for Building a Wall-Sized Frame for Fabric1. Cut the Frame Pieces
2. Prep the Boards for Assembly
3. Assemble the Frame
4. Attach the Drop Cloth to the Frame
5. Secure the Fabric over the Drop Cloth
6. Trim and Attach the Lattice Frame
7. Add a Hanger
Tools & Materials Needed:Here’s what you’ll need for this project, including the cut list. Materials
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AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
September 2020
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