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Is Water Conservation Really That Important? | Summer Heat Wave

With the heat wave we are feeling, water conservation is very important. Especially if you are on a well.

Here are some excellent tips from Home Water Works, a project of the Alliance for Water Efficiency. Please check out their link below.

Laundry

When doing laundry, always wash full loads.
Conventional washers built before 2011 typically use about 40 gallons per load; resource-efficient washer may use as little as 15 gallons per load.
Adjust the water level in the washer to the amount needed for the load.  Some of the new efficient washers will do this automatically.
When it’s time to replace the clothes washer, choose a high-efficiency washer with a low water factor.
The smaller the water factor, the more efficient the clothes washer. 

Dishwashing

If washing dishes by hand, fill the sink with water rather than continually running the tap.
Install an efficient dishwasher.
Technological advances in dishwashers make it possible to use less water to achieve the same goal.  Selecting a new dishwasher that uses less water per cycle will reduce household water use.
Only wash full loads of dishes in the dishwasher.

Faucets

Find and fix any leaky faucets.
A faucet leaking 60 drops per minute will waste 192 gallons per month. That is equal to 2,304 gallons per year.
Install efficient faucets and/or faucet aerators.
Turn off the faucet. When lathering hands, shaving, or brushing teeth.

Landscaping

Keep soil healthy and add mulch to prevent water loss through evaporation.
If watering with a hose, make sure it has a shut-off nozzle.
Water in the morning to prevent water loss due to evaporation.  Avoid watering when it is windy.
Use a rain barrel to collect water for use in the landscape.
Add a graywater system to collect water from your washing machine or shower and bath, and use it in the landscape.

Showers

If it takes a long time for the hot water to reach the shower, use it as an opportunity to collect water for other uses, such as watering houseplants.
Replace showerheads that have a flow rate greater than 2.5 gallons per minute.
If the showerhead is not labeled, the flow rate can be checked by catching the water in a 1-gallon bucket.  If it takes less than 24 seconds to fill up, the showerhead flow rate is more than 2.5 gallons per minute.  The U.S. EPA WaterSense program labels efficient showerheads that use a maximum 2.0 gallons per minute.
For more information and resources, visit the AWE Residential Shower Introduction Page.
Take shorter showers.
Reducing a 10-minute shower to 5 minutes will save 12.5 gallons of water if the showerhead has a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute (even more if the showerhead has a higher flow rate).

Toilets

Replace toilets installed before 1994 (1992 for Texas and California) with High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs).
Replacing an older toilet that uses 3.50 gallons per flush (gpf) with a HET that uses 1.28 gpf will save 2.22 gpf.  The EPA WaterSense program labels efficient toilets that use a maximum 1.28 gpf. 
If the toilet is flushed an average of six times each day it will save 13 gallons per day or 4,745 gallons per year.  Some older toilets may use as much as 7 gallons per flush. 
Check toilets to verify they are working properly.
Make sure the water level is not too high, the fill valve is working properly, and the flapper is not leaking. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day.
For more information on checking a toilet, visit the H2Ouse Water Saver Home Toilet Page.

Other

Check water bills for any instances of high water use, as this may be an indication of a leak.
Leaking faucets, leaking toilets, and leaking pipes all have something in common, they waste a lot of water! Your water bill will often show abnormal water consumption if there is a leak. Many water utilities have information on how to read your water bill online.
Composting food wastes saves water by reducing the water needed to run a garbage disposal.
Pool owners can use a cover to reduce water loss through evaporation. A pool cover can also save energy and reduce the need for chemicals.
Sweep outdoor surfaces with a broom instead of using a hose.
Wash vehicles at a carwash that recycles its water. If washing at home, make sure the hose has a shutoff valve.

http://www.home-water-works.org/water-conservation-tips

Why everyone woman should know something about plumbing… and when to call a professional!

 As a woman growing up in a plumbing and heating family business Ive heard my fair share of horror stories over the years! One thing that is for sure is that for a woman it is so very beneficial to have some sort of a clue when it comes to your plumbing system in your home!

After all… we all know “A Royal Flush Is Better Than A Full House!”

Although I lived as a child with my father who was a plumber and heating technician (and…etc) I never really paid THAT much attention to how things work until I had my own house. For one thing the old homes in town have REALLY old pipes that need to be replaced in a lot of homes – our first home was one of them, I was so glad to get rid of those old galvanized pipes – over time they built up on the inside, flaked off gross things and our water pressure was awful! We had the pipes replaced and amazing how much better the water pressure, flow and colour was – such a difference!

Being new to country living now having a well and septic this very hot dry weather we have been having has certainly been something to be mindful about with water.

Even certain plumbing issues within the home which may seem small or simple, could actually be your worst nightmare! A small leak – which can typically be detected during routine cleaning can be your biggest warning sign – seeing water on the inside of your bathroom vanity or under your kitchen sink, never assume its just by chance. Within my own home again, while cleaning under the sink I found our drain had been leaking, thankfully it was an easy fix, however if it had been left much longer it could have begun to rot out the inside of the cupboard and work its way through the ceiling of the basement – which then becomes a huge, dirty and expensive mess!  Did you know even a small hair line crack in your bathroom basin drain (silver part) can cause a lot of damage! Did you know even if your toilet ran a very small amount this small issue could infact be using  wasting many gallons of water!

It truly pays to hire a professional! Did you know that even as the home owner you could be liable if a handy man gets hurt at your home?! Yup its true! If you hire someone to do work, it does not matter that you have hired them, what matters is if they actually have WSIB coverage and insurance. If they don’t … you are on the line for any accidents OR damage which could happen due to the repair or install. Of course everyone is not perfect, yes even pros’ can have a slip up or make a mistake, this is where having business insurance is smart!

Take a walk through your basement, become familiar with where the pipes run, where your plumbing appliances are (softener, hot water heater etc), do monthly checks of your faucets and drains to ensure there isnt any leaks or cracks. If you live in the country and have a septic system, find out where it is, figure out when it was last pumped, do not wait until you are in an emergency situation to call for help!

Preventative Maintenance is a very valuable investment as a home owner, very common with vehicles, however over looked by many property owners.

Give us a call at 1-866-565-5513 or 519-323-2000 and speak to Pam  to book your preventative maintenance appointment where we will send a qualified plumber out to do a thorough inspection of your plumbing system.

JJ McLellan is a family run Plumbing and HVAC Business which has been in operation since 1948!

OR Submit your info below!

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You aren’t the only one who needs to stay cool & comfortable

On days like this where its very hot, humid and muggy many of us are happy to be able to go to work and be out of the heat – what about our pets who we leave at home while we are at work?

When it is this hot out we must be mindful of our pets and children – do NOT leave them in a car unattended as they could quickly over heat, especially in these temperatures! There was a very unfortunate loss of a dogs life in Ontario due to this heat 🙁 Very sad…

If you have AC at home do you leave it on all day or have it programmed to come on before you get home? Did you know that if you leave your system on all day at a constant temperature your home will stay cooler much easier – plus your system will not have to work as hard AND (this is a biggie for me being an animal lover) your pets will be comfortable while you are away!

With the Co0ling season here in full force – please remember to change your filter. This will allow the air to flow easier (without the blockage or resistance of a plugged filter) and your system will not have to work harder. If your AC has to work harder you run the risk of it breaking down… and then you’ll have no cool air!

One more quick reminder, while you are ensuring your pets are staying cool and hydrated also check in on elderly relatives and keep an eye on your children to ensure they are drinking lots of fluid! Freezie’s and popcicles are great options for keeping kids hydrated!

Stay cool and enjoy this Summer weather!

Simple way to update your kitchen & peace of mind!

Are you looking for a simple way to give your kitchen a new look? Something to update it but also be conservative on your spending.

Replacing your kitchen faucet is an excellent way to update the look and improve the functionality as well.

With Moen’s Design & Planning Website you can discover your perfect style!  

  • Back to Basics

    Do you like to think of yourself as a minimalist? Do you prefer styles and trends that exude simplicity? If you’re looking for hardware or fixtures that complement almost any accessory, design or color it’s time you go back to the basics. Moen’s Basic design offers minimal ornamentation and a fresh, clean feel to give your room the look you love.

  • A New Spin on an Old Look

    Are you a fan of the classics, but not of the out-dated feel they may bring to the table? Get a new take on an old look with Moen’s Transitional design. Familiar and inviting, transitional design offers contemporary elements while still maintaining the warmth and comforts of a trusted classic.

  • Today’s Look – Achieved

    Does organization rule your life? Do you prefer a simple, black-and-white photo focal point versus a wall of picture frames? If so, Moen’s Modern design is right up your alley. The sleek, cool design of modern style gives your room an uncluttered feel and creates an updated, refreshed and fun atmosphere.

  • The Comforts of Home

    Are you drawn to rooms with warm tones, natural colors and a comfy cozy feel? If comfort and classic is what you seek, Moen’s Traditional design is right for you. Every rich detail of our traditionally styled pieces invokes a hint of the familiar that soothes the eye as well as the soul.

Check out the various faucets that Moen has to offer and then give us a call, not only can we get your choice of faucets we can install them for you as well.

Check out Moen Canada at http://www.moen.ca/kitchen-bar/_/N-67q for all the Kitchen faucets we could get for you!

Want peace of mind? Moen has a Limited Lifetime Warranty! Plus… (from their website)

About Moen

What Sets Moen Apart?

From finishes that are guaranteed to last a lifetime, to faucets that perfectly balance your water pressure, Moen sets the standard for exceptional beauty and reliable, innovative design.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

All Moen products come with a Limited Lifetime Warranty against leaks, drips and finish defects.

LifeShine® Finish

Moen LifeShine finishes are guaranteed not to tarnish, corrode or flake off … for life. LifeShine creates the durability and wearability of chrome on a variety of beautiful, decorator-inspired finishes.

1-800-465-6130

Our highly trained customer and consumer service experts are available five days a week to handle all questions and concerns.

Pressure-Balancing Shower Valves

Maintains the balance between hot and cold water where there is a pressure drain on your system. Prevents “shower shock”.

M-Pact® System

Our M-Pact® common valve system allows the homeowner to completely upgrade the style of their lavatory or shower faucet without replacing any of the faucet plumbing.

Styles & Finishes

Moen offers a variety of styles designed to complement today’s decors.

One-Piece Washerless Cartridge

Our patented one-piece cartridge means no washers, springs or discs – the most common cause of annoying drips.

Hydrolock® Connection System

Used an all kitchen pullout and widespread lavatory faucets, Hydrolock® technology allows water lines to be installed with a snap for faster installation. It eliminates the need to use tools to attach the waterline to the faucet. Provides an audible, visual and tactile confirmation of proper installation.

As Moen’s Plumber of the Month for May we are proud to showcase the products they offer and we can install!

 

Tips to Save Water at Home – Water Conservation

With the launch of the new “Because Water Matters” Website by the CIPH – Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating in honour or Earth Day, this article below is one of the links you will find on their website. This information is directly from the Alliance for Water Efficiency website to save water when you are at home!

Some very useful tips! Be sure to check their website for their Business Tips For Saving Water as well!

Laundry

When doing laundry, always wash full loads.

•Conventional washers built before 2011 typically use about 40 gallons per load; resource-efficient washer may use as little as 15 gallons per load.

•Adjust the water level in the washer to the amount needed for the load. Some of the new efficient washers will do this automatically.

When it’s time to replace the clothes washer, choose a high-efficiency washer with a low water factor.

•The smaller the water factor, the more efficient the clothes washer.

•Energy Star models currently have a maximum of 6.0, although many well-performing machines are available with lower water factors. Look for the lowest water factor available to achieve the highest water savings.

•For more information and resources, visit the AWE Residential Clothes Washer Introduction Page.

Dishwashing

If washing dishes by hand, fill the sink with water rather than continually running the tap.

Install an efficient dishwasher.

•Technological advances in dishwashers make it possible to use less water to achieve the same goal. Selecting a new dishwasher that uses less water per cycle will reduce household water use.

◦Dishwashers use less water than handwashing, particularly if you limit pre-rinsing.

•For examples of dishwasher models and their water use, visit the CEE Qualifying Residential Dishwasher List

Only wash full loads of dishes in the dishwasher.

•For more information and resources, visit the AWE Residential Dishwasher introduction Page.

Avoid using running water to thaw frozen foods.

•Instead, defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

Faucets

Find and fix any leaky faucets.

•A faucet leaking 60 drops per minute will waste 192 gallons per month. That is equal to 2,304 gallons per year.

Install efficient faucets and/or faucet aerators.

•The U.S. EPA WaterSense program labels efficient faucets and aerators that use a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute.

•Look for the WaterSense label when selecting new faucets or aerators.

Turn off the faucet.

•When lathering hands, shaving, or brushing teeth.

Landscaping

If an irrigation system is used, make sure it is properly set up and maintained.

•Irrigate hydrozones based upon the plants’ water needs.

•Install a weather-based SMART irrigation controller. It is essential that SMART controllers are properly programmed and maintained.

•Install and maintain a rain sensor, either wireless or wired, on the irrigation controller if it does not have one built-in.

•Regularly inspect the sprinkler heads to make sure they are not damaged or malfunctioning. 

•Adjust sprinklers so they are not spraying water on paved surfaces such as the sidewalk or driveway.

•For more information, visit the AWE Landscape, Irrigation, and Outdoor Water Use Page and the Xeriscape Council of New Mexico’s Xeriscape Principles Page.

Landscape with water-wise landscaping principles.

•Use native plants or plants that require little water to thrive in your region.

•Plant turf grass only in areas where people will use it actively for recreation.

•Organize your landscape into hydro-zones. Hydro-zones are areas of landscape with plant and vegetation that have similar water requirements. This prevents over-watering some plants and under-watering others.

•Keep soil healthy and add mulch to prevent water loss through evaporation.

•If watering with a hose, make sure it has a shut-off nozzle.

•Water in the morning to prevent water loss due to evaporation. Avoid watering when it is windy.

•Use a rain barrel to collect water for use in the landscape.

•Add a graywater system to collect water from your washing machine or shower and bath, and use it in the landscape.

Showers

If it takes a long time for the hot water to reach the shower, use it as an opportunity to collect water for other uses, such as watering houseplants.

Replace showerheads that have a flow rate greater than 2.5 gallons per minute (the current national energy policy act standard).

•If the showerhead is not labeled, the flow rate can be checked by catching the water in a 1-gallon bucket. If it takes less than 24 seconds to fill up, the showerhead flow rate is more than 2.5 gallons per minute. The U.S. EPA WaterSense program labels efficient showerheads that use a maximum 2.0 gallons per minute.

•For more information and resources, visit the AWE Residential Shower Introduction Page.

Take shorter showers.

•Reducing a 10-minute shower to 5 minutes will save 12.5 gallons of water if the showerhead has a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute (even more if the showerhead has a higher flow rate).

Toilets

Replace toilets installed before 1994 (1992 for Texas and California) with High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs).

•Replacing an older toilet that uses 3.50 gallons per flush (gpf) with a HET that uses 1.28 gpf will save 2.22 gpf. The EPA WaterSense program labels efficient toilets that use a maximum 1.28 gpf.

•If the toilet is flushed an average of six times each day it will save 13 gallons per day or 4,745 gallons per year. Some older toilets may use as much as 7 gallons per flush.

•For more information and resources, visit the AWE Toilet Fixtures Introduction Page and WaterSense Labeled Toilets Page.

Check toilets to verify they are working properly.

•Make sure the water level is not too high, the fill valve is working properly, and the flapper is not leaking. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day.

•For more information on checking a toilet, visit the H2Ouse Water Saver Home Toilet Page.

Other

Check water bills for any instances of high water use, as this may be an indication of a leak.

•Leaking faucets, leaking toilets, and leaking pipes all have something in common, they waste a lot of water! Your water bill will often show abnormal water consumption if there is a leak. Many water utilities have information on how to read your water bill online. For more information and resources, visit the AWE Household Leaks Page.

Composting food wastes saves water by reducing the water needed to run a garbage disposal.

Pool owners can use a cover to reduce water loss through evaporation. A pool cover can also save energy and reduce the need for chemicals.

Sweep outdoor surfaces with a broom instead of using a hose.

Wash vehicles at a carwash that recycles its water. If washing at home, make sure the hose has a shutoff valve.

Original Information can be found on the: Alliance for Water Efficiency Website – Home Water Tips

..© 2011 Alliance for Water Efficiency. All Rights Reserved.

Spring Cleaning & Servicing

With this gorgeous spring weather many of us have had our heating systems turned off… until yesterday that is! We held off as long as we could, however at bedtime last night we had to turn the furnace back on. Our fireplace has also been running the odd time in the basement for the past couple weeks.

Now is a great time to ensure that your heating system is in tip top shape for heating season next year. Of course with cleaning and servicing there is no guarantee nothing will happen, however by having your equipment properly maintained and cleaned will not only save you in energy costs but also be cleaner in your home.

Indoor Spring Cleaning Tips

  • Wipe down all your walls, lights and fans
  • Dust shelves, door ways, trim, windows, art work/photos and around computers
  • Dust or clean window coverings and window sills
  • Clean windows & wash your window and door screens
  • Clean behind your fridge & vacuum off the back
  • Clean out and organize cupboards and fridge/freezer
  • Change batteries in your smoke and CO detectors
  • Check for any leaking taps or pipes
  • Vacuum and clean bathroom fans
  • Check grout on tiles, bathtub & shower – regrout if cracking
  • Change or wash filters in your Furnace, Air Conditioner and HRV
  • Schedule cleaning & servicing on your heating and cooling appliances
  • Ensure furniture is moved away from registers – cold and hot air to ensure proper circulation
  • Remove the cover from your Air Conditioner
  • Clean area rugs (shampoo if necessary) and give furniture a good cleaning
  • Declutter! Go through paper, recycle or file. Closets – coat closets, clothes closets. Donate things that no longer fit. Scan any paper work and then shred. Go through kids toys, garbage broken ones and donate any they no longer play with.
  • Ensure your dryer vent is cleaned out and give your washer a good cleaning
  • Visually inspect your Hot Water Heater, Furnace, Air Conditioner, Water Softener and any other plumbing or heating appliance to familiarize yourself with their sounds and ensure there are no visible leaks. *we do not recommend homeowners taking these appliances apart in anyway please leave the cleaning & servicing to a professional – home owners should perform visual inspections to ensure there is no water leaking or making unusual sounds.

Don’t forget your outdoors Spring Cleaning tasks … check out the tips over at the Reliance Home Comfort Blog – The Outdoor Spring Cleaning Checklist.