Here’s the fast and correct answer:  you need a professional plumber to calculate what size water heater you need as there are numerous factors involved, such as: Storage tank or tankless? Burner or element heating? Number of people in your family? How much hot water is needed during periods of peak demand? And so on? […]

Chances are that when you think of outdoor grilling, you think of “Dad” slinging the burgers and franks while making small talk with family and friends, and all while keeping a watchful eye on the little ones. At least that’s the stereotype.  And, like most such stereotypes from the days of Ozzie & Harriet and […]

June 5th is World Environment Day (WED), a day of environmental action and awareness run by the United Nations Environmental Programme since 1972. While the theme changes yearly, the core message remains constant: to empower people to make changes in their communities that have a positive impact on the planet. This year, the focus is […]

The issue of indoor air quality is so vital to our nation’s health, that National Clean Air Month is now observed every year between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.  Which means that observances all across the country are going on as this blog is being published. There are two primary ways you improve the quality […]

They’re the people you love unconditionally. The ones you share the good times with, and those you turn to for support during the bad. They’re your family. As a nation, we’ve been celebrating this most cherished of institutions during National Family Month – the five weeks between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day – since 1998. […]

If you purchased a garbage disposal any time within the past 5 years or so, this blog is probably not for you.  That’s because today’s better built units have a shelf life of 10-15 years, on average. On the other hand, if the clock is starting to wind down on yours, here’s some advice on […]

All-purpose cleaners are a great way to clean a variety of surfaces in your home. But when it comes to cleaning your computer, TV, and portable devices, their very delicate screens and components require a bit more care. While household electronics often come with a hefty price tag, cleaning them doesn’t have to. Yes, you […]

Just like food and shelter, sleep is a basic life necessity.  In fact, many of us often don’t realize just how important sleep is until we don’t get enough.  When that happens, you may feel run down, unable to focus, or irritable the next day. Or maybe just plain ol’ physically run down and not […]

Did you know that the average cost of a minor kitchen remodel is over $18,000, while a high-end “reno” tips the scale at $54,000? If your kitchen is showing its age – and hasn’t exactly aged gracefully – you’re no doubt feeling you need to do something.  But there are ways to cut costs without […]

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, a typical remodel costs an average of $16,000 with more upscale renovations costing upwards of $50,000. With all the other important things vying for your checkbook’s attention, that can be a hard number to swallow. But before you reach for the Pepto pink wonder, consider these simple […]