1. Use the Same Floor Plan
If you’re not desperate to add square footage, keeping the same footprint of the bathroom you already have will save you money in demolition and reconstruction dollars.  You’ll eliminate excess dust and debris while you’re at it, not a bad bonus.  Making the most of your space means plumbing fixtures are easier to locate near already existing pipes and the basics can all go in the same place, easing the timing and the process.  Click here for some inspiration on smaller bathrooms with organization and style.

2. Make a Plan and Stick with It
Before ripping, tearing, or gutting, you need a plan, and a strong one.  Evaluate things like:

• How much you want to spend
• Where will all of the fixtures go
• How much storage you will need

If planning isn’t your strength, this is a good place to dish out the dough and hire a designer  –  a decision which will add style and efficiency to your bathroom remodel project.  Get your design nailed down from the beginning and resist the temptation to change your mind, which can stall the project and cost you extra money in the long run.

3. Choose Affordable Design Features and Add Big Impact on Your Own
You may think you need that expensive Italian tile, but maybe all you really want is a touch of the color blue it comes in.  Using lower cost, neutral tiles is long-term-friendly and allows you to add zest to the room with non-permanent touches, such as luxury towels, a designer shower curtain, and wall paint, in any color your heart craves.  Peak at some ideas for keeping it classy while using neturals in your decorating here.

Getting excited about the possibility of remodeling your bathroom for a price you can afford?  Follow us next month for part 2 as we share three more ways to save big on your bathroom remodel.
Need some plumbing assistance as you remodel your bathroom?  Contact us at Nowthen Plumbing today!  Serving the surrounding areas of Elk River, Anoka, and the south & east suburbs of the Twin Cities.

If that sounds like you, then the Washlet S400 might be just what you’ve been waiting for.

The Washlet S400 by TOTO

Bringing technology to the bathroom, the Washlet S400 is an automated toilet system (yes, we mean system) made by TOTO.  It is automatic, hands-free, and sensor-driven.

So what can this baby do?

• Its automatic lid opens and closes as you approach and step away
• It contains a front and rear washing system, using gentle aerated warm water
• A warm air dryer (with three temperature options) is built-in to leave you fresh and dry
• The heated seat features temp control so you can stay warm while seated
• Automatic flushing is activated by sensors or the simple touch of a button
• A self-cleaning wand makes cleaning a breeze

TOTO boasts that the Washlet S400 will “introduce you to an unprecedented level of comfort, while delivering maximum cleanliness.”  All at your command.

Sound like the gadget you’ve been missing?  Check out more on the Washlet S400 and then contact us at Nowthen Plumbing to bring your toilet up to technological speed.

When one of these home systems needs assistance, whether it’s a leaky water pipe, a backed-up sink, or the installation of a whole new bathroom, the work should undoubtedly be trusted to an experienced, licensed plumber of the highest level.

What is a Master Plumber?
Master plumbers are licensed in the plumbing industry and approved by the state.  Licensed plumbers work their way up to “master plumber” status, acheiving the highest level of experience and expertise.  Their license means they have passed rigorous exams, adhered to all guidelines and regulations, and have years of experience under their belt, working as apprentices and on their own. They have been educated as well as learned from trial and error on the job, meaning your plumbing emergency will not be a new one to them.  They have earned the right to claim the master title.

Why Hire a Master Plumber?

1. We all love to save money.  But we also love to make wise investments.  Hiring a master plumber is one of those investments.  Licensed plumbers charge reasonable, fair rates that account for their expertise, time, and expensive specialty equipment, including pipes, pressure gauges, blueprints, and welding equipment.
2. Without proper plumbing, you run the risk of costly repairs in the future.  While you can take the risk and cut corners by hiring a non-licensed handyman or plumber for less, the result could be a longer project timeline (costing you more anyway) or mistake-prone work that could result in later repairs.  Hiring a master plumber will provide you with a guarantee that the work will be completed in a satisfactory manner.
3. Knowing your plumbing work is up to code (and that your plumber is aware of current code) is a huge peace of mind.
4. Licensed plumbers are insured.  The job involves being exposed to dirt, heat, and even danger.  Knowing your master plumber has insurance coverage protects you from legal and medical concerns.

The bottom line is:  investigate your plumber and know their credentials and experience.  The role of a plumber involves specific knowledge and fine-tuned skills.  A licensed plumber will execute their job professionally, and with customer satisfaction in mind.

Whether you have a home or office plumbing emergency, or need plumbing assistance with a bathroom or kitchen remodel, Nowthen Plumbing has a team of highly trained licensed plumbers ready to serve you with efficiency and excellence.  Our pricing is fair, consistent, and competitive.  We serve the entire North Metro Twin Cities, MN area, including Anoka, Blaine, and Elk River.  Contact us at Nowthen Plumbing today!

One Piece or Two: Typical toilets have either one- or two-piece construction.  What’s the difference?  The two-piece models are traditionally what go into homes, a separate bowl and tank bolted together. One-piece models have a single, integrated tank and bowl for a sleek and seamless look, but the cost tends to be higher than the two-piece option.

Shapes and Styles: Toilets generally feature either a smaller, round bowl or larger, elongated (oval-like) bowl. The round bowl is understandably ideal for compact spaces, though the larger, elongated bowls with an extended rim are more comfortable for adult use.  Curious about unique shapes and trends in toilets?  Check out this toilet styles and trends video from HGTV.

Sizes and Installation: Standard toilet height from bowl rim to floor is about 15 to 17 inches, though manufactures are becoming more and more adept to customizing, such as American Standard’s RightHeight innovation.  Juvenile models are even available, like those found in preschools, as well as chair-height models for adults with special needs.  Most residential toilets are installed on the floor, but wall-mount styles are available for bathrooms short on floor space.

Colors and Materials: Almost all toilets are constructed of vitreous china, or porcelain, for home and public use.  In less common instances, stainless-steel models may be used in industrial and institutional locations.  Though pink and avocado green toilets had their day (and their outdated day) white is the most popular contemporary color, followed by light beige, both meant to stand the test of time and decor.  With that said, toilets are still manufactured in an array of colors to suit trends and personal taste.

Measurements and Drain Outlets: Rough-in dimensions are important for choosing the correct toilet for your space.  Most standard floor-mount toilets have a “rough-in” dimension of 10, 12 or 14 inches. To figure out the rough-in distance your bathroom needs, measure from the wall to the center of the drain (the bolts that attach the fixture to the drain).  Drains for toilets are either on the floor, or in the wall. Wall outlets can be either 4 inches off the floor, or the fixture is “hung” on the wall over the outlet.  Since these are important installation details, make sure to contact your professional, licensed plumber before purchasing if you’re not sure exactly what you need.

Need more assistance on selecting or installing your toilet?  Working on a bathroom remodel?   Contact us at Now Then plumbing for expert service you can trust!  We happily serve Anoka, Blaine, and Elk River, as well as the North West Metro / Twin Cities MN areas!

• Which toilet is right for my bathroom?
• What does gpf mean?
• Do I need a one or two piece toilet?
• Can I save money on my water bill?
• And what’s the difference between all these toilets anyway?

Never fear!  We’re here to give you a two part easy-to-understand series in toilet basics, including types, sizes, and flushing systems, so that you leave with a clearer understanding of what you really want and need in a toilet!

Types of Toilets and How they Work:

• Gravity Fed: The most common type of toilet is the gravity-fed model, which uses, well, gravity.  It relies on the weight of the water and the head pressure (how high the water is in the tank) to flush.  A gravity fed toilet has free-standing water sitting in the tank.
• Pressure-Assist : The lesser used pressure-assist toilet depends on air pressure within a cylindrical vessel, inside the toilet tank.  Air inside the vessel forces a vigorous, rapid flush.
• Dual Flush: A dual flush toilet is a type of gravity fed toilet.  Dual-flush toilets give users two flush options: tilt the handle up for liquid waste to save water, or push the handle down for a standard flush.  Dual-flush toilets often meet the HET (high efficiency toilet) criteria of averaging 1.28 gallons per flush or less (an average based on one high flush and two low flushes).

Toilet Technology and Water Use:  Recent toilet technology has allowed toilets to use less water than ever.  That term that keeps popping up in toilet descriptions, gpf, stands for gallons of water per flush, and is a measure to help identify water usage.  Toilets manufactured before 1980, not uncommon in many homes that haven’t gone through a bathroom remodel, usually need 5 to 7 gallons of water per flush (gpf), and toilets from the 1980s to 90s typically use 3.5 gpf.  In 1992, the U.S. government mandated that toilets use no more than 1.6 gpf, changing modern design and manufacturing.

It’s easy to see why replacing older toilets with the newer models can result in significant water and sewer savings.  Replacing a 3.5- or 5-gpf toilet with a 1.6-gpf toilet can save about 9,740 to 17,300 gallons of water per year.  Meaning today’s high-efficiency toilets use less water than ever, yet outperform many of the older, water-guzzling ones.

*Next month look for more details on toilet trends, installation, and more!*

Need assistance with your Anoka, Blaine, Elk River, or North West Metro / Twin Cities, MN toilet installation or bathroom remodel?  Connect with us at Nowthen Plumbing today!

The answers may be found in a high efficiency water heater.  This month we’re here to help you understand high efficiency water heaters and the difference they can make in your home.                                         

Did you know that heating water accounts for approximately 15 percent of a home’s energy use?  And since high efficiency water heaters use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models, they can save home owners money on their utility bills, depending on family size, heater location, and the size and placement of water pipes.

Different high efficiency water heater technologies include:

•  Storage (Tank) Water Heaters – These keep water hot and  ready for use at all times in insulated storage tanks, ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. They can be used with electricity, natural gas, oil, and propane. One drawback of these units is that they can create “standby losses” — extra energy that is being used to keep the water hot at all times.

•  Demand (Tankless) Water Heaters – These circulate water through a large coil, heating water only on as needed, using gas or electricity.  There is no storage tank continuously maintaining hot water.  A possible concern with this is the limitation on the number of fixtures that can simultaneously use hot water. There is, however, an endless supply of hot water, and standby losses are eliminated.

•  Heat Pump Water Heaters – In this case, heat pumps transfer energy from the surrounding air to water in a storage tank. These water heaters are much more efficient than electric resistance water heaters and most effective in warm climates with long cooling seasons.

•  Solar Water Heating – Initially expensive compared to standard models, solar water heaters can be cost effective. That is because the sun’s energy is harnessed to reduce operating costs up to 90 percent. Solar water heating systems do require a conventional water heater as a backup water heating source to ensure hot water is available when solar energy is not.

Deciding which type of water heater is the best fit for your home is something you should research on your own and discuss with your respected plumbing professional.  A helpful resource for learning more about energy efficient home products, including hot water heaters is Energy Star at www.energystar.gov, the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency.

And of course, reasons other than energy efficiency may prompt you to consider a new water heater for your home, such as age or effectiveness.  A checklist for evaluating your current hot water heater can be found HERE.

When the time is right, we at Nowthen Plumbing would be happy to help you select and install a more efficient hot water heater, making sure those “brr!” moments stay outside, and not in the shower!

• Garbage Disposal: Your kitchen is sure to see plenty of action this holiday season.  Gear up by sharpening your garbage disposal blades.  Pour a handful of solid ice cubes and one cup of rock salt into the disposal to simultaneously clean and sharpen.  A small orange or lemon peel can also be run through for easy and natural deodorization.

• Check Sinks: Fill your sink and drain it.  Watch for slow drainage which can indicate a clog or blocked vent pipe or bubbles appearing while the water is draining.

•  Toilets: Check to see if your toilets rock when pushed or pull.  If so, inspect their bases for loose bolts.  Next, make sure each toilet is flushing properly and that the water stops running upon flush completion.  Check your tank for any broken, missing or corroded parts in need of repair.

• Showers:  Your showers should be inspected at the top and bottom.  First check your shower head for water pressure.  Low pressure may mean that the shower head has sediment buildup and is in need of cleaning.  Also check the shower’s drain to ensure that the tub is emptying normally. If you find yourself left with a couple of inches of standing water, try using a plunger, placed over the drain hole.  A few pumps should help to dislodge any minor blockage and open the passage way.

• Water Heater: Don’t forget to drain and clean your water heater once a year to remove sediment build-up.

Did any of your plumbing appliances not pass the test?  If so, contact us today to remedy any plumbing problems before the first guests hit your door!

Low Maintenance: PEX plumbing systems are immune to corrosion and mineral buildup, unlike metal alternatives.  PEX is also resistant to freeze damage, because it expands and contracts as water freezes and thaws inside the tubing, avoiding costly ruptures.

Easy To Install: PEX plumbing installations require fewer fittings to install and does not require soldering.  In addition, because PEX plumbing is flexible, the tubing can turn 90 degree corners without the need for elbow fittings.   PEX doesn’t require glue, which means you don’t have to work in well-ventilated spaces or wear a respirator.  Easy installation typically results in lower costs for the homeowner as well!

Efficient and Quiet: Because PEX plumbing does not transfer heat as much as copper, this plumbing material retains more heat in hot-water lines and resists condensation on cold-water lines.  As an added bonus, water flows more quietly through PEX tubing than it does through copper, eliminating the characteristic “water hammer” noise of metal pipe systems.

Affordable: PEX is cheaper than copper. Half-inch PEX tubing costs about a third of the price of copper!  Plus, because PEX is flexible, it can be shipped and stored on spools, where rigid plastic or metal piping must be cut to some practical length for shipping and storage. This leads to lower shipping and handling costs.

While PEX piping does have a few disadvantages – for example, it cannot be used outside – they are, in our opinion, outweighed by the piping’s many perks!

• Know Your Responsibilities: Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their home’s sewer laterals, or the pipes that connect their home to the main sewer line. However, because pipes are buried deep in the ground problems often don’t make themselves known until it is too late.

• Recognize The Signs: One of the first signs of trouble will be a sewer blockage or back up. These are usually identified by a foul odor or gurgling noise coming from your toilet or house drain, or by slow water flow. As soon as you suspect a blockage contact your plumber to identify and resolve the issue.

• Prevent Damage: To prevent sewer lateral damage, be thoughtful about landscaping and plant placement. For example, trees should be planted at least ten feet from any drainage pipes. In addition, place only small and slow growing species such as dogwood or fringe trees near sewer lines. If your tastes trend more toward fast-growing varieties, keep in mind that you will likely need to replace them every ten years to prevent tree root overgrowth.

While we love to see residential homes complete with beautiful full grown trees and well landscaped lawns, occasionally those trees can result in dangerous damage to pipes and drains. Roots are naturally drawn to pipes. After all, they contain water, nutrients, and oxygen – all feel good foods for tree roots. Unfortunately, when roots wiggle their way into the pipes the results can be some of the most expensive and costly sewer damage homeowners can experience. Get the tree root low-down to help prevent damage to your pipes and plumbing!
Know Your Responsibilities: Homeowners are responsible for maintaining their home’s sewer laterals, or the pipes that connect their home to the main sewer line. However, because pipes are buried deep in the ground problems often don’t make themselves known until it is too late.

Recognize The Signs: One of the first signs of trouble will be a sewer blockage or back up. These are usually identified by a foul odor or gurgling noise coming from your toilet or house drain, or by slow water flow. As soon as you suspect a blockage contact your plumber to identify and resolve the issue.

Prevent Damage: To prevent sewer lateral damage, be thoughtful about landscaping and plant placement. For example, trees should be planted at least ten feet from any drainage pipes. In addition, place only small and slow growing species such as dogwood or fringe trees near sewer lines. If your tastes trend more toward fast-growing varieties, keep in mind that you will likely need to replace them every ten years to prevent tree root overgrowth.
Path:

Check Your Anode Rod:You water heater’s anode rod is in place, in part, to prevent hot water from corroding the inside of the tank and, in doing so, shortening its life. To check your anode rod, attach a hose to you water tank’s drain and drain a few gallons of water. Once visible, unscrew the anode rod, check for deterioration (the rod should be at least a half inch thick) or calcium build up, and replace as necessary.

Drain Your Tank: Annually your water tank should be drained and rinsed of sediment. To do so, drain the water from the tank. Once drained, stir up your tank’s sediment by quickly releasing the cold water supply. Drain the tank again. Rinse, drain and repeat until the runoff water drains clear. Once rinsed, refill your tank and turn the power back on.

Check Your Pipes For Condensation: In the summer months, the cold-water pipe on your water heater can develop a buildup of condensation. If this happens with your water heater, consider insulation. To do so, apply self-sticking, 3/8-inch-thick foam around the pipe’s diameter, on both the hot- and cold-water pipes.

Set The Temperature: While this is more of a cost saving measure than a maintenance task, checking the temperature of your water heater is a worthwhile measure all the same. To do so, find your water heater’s temperature dial and unscrew the cover. From here, the temperature can be adjusted with a flat head screw driver. According to Consumer Reports, for each ten degrees that the temperature is dropped, homeowners can expect a savings of up to five-percent off of their energy bill!