The increasing rise in the cost of oil combined with the green revolution means that there has never been a better time for investing in energy efficient cooling system units.  No matter the size of your home or office, the top three ways to be energy efficient with a cooling system are:

1. Ventilation
2. Evaporation Cooling
3. Ductless Air Conditioning

Ventilation usually provides the least expensive means of cooling a building.  Using a ventilation system requires a certain environment with strong air currents and minimal humidity, meaning that it may be better for hot and dry climates rather than mild and wet areas.  A properly ventilated building has a number of openings that will capitalize on wind flow, sucking out stale hot air to be replaced with cooler, circulating air.  This means that your building requires a large system of vents and air flow, but requires a minimum of energy to power it.  In large rooms or areas further circulation of air may be needed with fans.  A vent cooling system can lower the temperature of a building by around twenty degrees, but when air flow is stagnant, it will have minimal effect.  The low cost of installing vents, however, makes it a priority for any home or office.

Evaporation cooling, also known as “swamp cooling”, utilizes the simple property of heat retention in water to lower temperature.  As water can hold much more energy than air, it will absorb a tremendous amount of heat from the air and thus cool the area.  A pump sucks in air and cycles it through water- bearing paddles, then circulates it back through the room.  This can lower the temperature by as much as forty degrees, but works with less efficiency in humid areas.  These cooling system pumps cost only half as much as central air conditioning and use only a third as much power.

Air conditioners are so popular that they account for one twentieth of the total amount of energy used in the United States.  Nearly two tons of carbon dioxide are released per house with an A/C unit, but this does not mean that they are automatically energy wasteful, as certain models have greater “green” capability than others.  While central air conditioning uses a system of ducts to pump cool air, an energy-wasting process, energy use can be cut by as much as fifty percent with a ductless cooling system.  This is a great option for cooling specific rooms rather than the entire house. Although it is more expensive than a window air conditioner, it has distinct advantages including a thermostat control, and does not need to be removed when the heat of summer turns to the chill of fall.

There are several reasons that you may wish to replace your kitchen’s existing backsplash during a renovation. The most obvious reason is that your current backsplash may be dated, or may not work with the concept of the more modern kitchen you plan on creating. Your backsplash may also be compromised in some way, either through cracks in the tile or laminate, water damage behind those materials, or both. The first step to installing a new backsplash is removing the old one while incurring as little damage as possible to the surrounding environment.

Backsplash removal is a fairly straightforward task that can easily be executed without having to hire a contractor. The trick is to carefully evaluate the specific situation before beginning any work. First, identify the material from which your backsplash is made. The most common materials are tile and plastic laminate (Formica countertop material).

Removing a Tile Backsplash

It is important to note that during all stages of tile backsplash removal, protective eye gear should be worn. Some individuals make the mistake of immediately attempting to crack the tile. Fast-tracking to this step can result in unnecessary damage to the wall’s foundation, and to surrounding areas. In addition, if you hope to save any of the old tiles for future projects, you would be well advised to approach the task carefully and thoughtfully. First, be sure to cover all exposed surfaces surrounding the backsplash area. Begin by carefully removing the grout that surrounds each individual tile. This step may be accomplished with the help of a grout remover, either applied manually or used as a drill tip attachment. Once all exposed grout has been removed, the tiles should detach relatively easily, with some gentle leverage. Insert a putty knife behind the tile, with the help of a few gentle taps of a hammer. If this lever technique does not work, you may have to resort to gently tapping the middle of the tile to create several smaller pieces.

Removing a Laminate Backsplash

Begin by cutting any existing caulking that attaches the backsplash to the countertop. Also check to see whether or not the laminate has been attached to the counter’s lip with screws, since they would have to be removed before proceeding to the next step. Once all visible adhesives have been removed, proceed as you would with tiles, by gently inserting a flat putty knife behind the laminate sheet and prying it away from the foundation.

Even the most careful backsplash removal jobs will result in some degree of damage to the underlying wall, especially if it is made of drywall. Depending upon the degree of damage, you may be able to get away with simply patching uneven areas before installing your new backsplash.

1. Houseplants. Houseplants do more than beautify a home; they improve air quality. In 1989, NASA and the Association of Landscape Contractors of America proved various indoor plants like bamboo palms, spider plants, English Ivy and peace lily purify the air. Some plants are more effective on certain pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene than others.

2.  Cleaning & Washing Bedding. As a clean home is a healthy home, a little elbow grease goes a long ways. Vacuuming and mopping floors and dusting all surfaces remove pollen, mold spores, pet dander, dust mites and other allergy causing particles. Frequently washing of all bedding in hot water ensures safe and healthy sleep for the whole household.

3. Entrance Mats. As people wander outdoors, shoes collect anything they come into contact with and bring it into the house. This includes lead based paint particles, insecticides, fertilizers, dust and dirt. Having thick mats at all doorways to collect these unwelcome intruders is a simple way to improve indoor air quality especially in the summertime.

4. Air Conditioning Filters. Replacing air conditioning filters improves air quality. Not only does the clean filter let the air conditioner work more efficiently, it captures pollution. Special HEPA filters trap even smaller particles.

5. Exhaust Fans. Using bathroom exhaust fans improves air quality. As specially designed fans draw moisture and odors from rooms, using these fans in bathrooms regulates humidity and reduces opportunities for mold to grow.

6. No Smoking Zone. Keeping cigarette and cigar smoke outside greatly improves indoor air quality. Cigarettes alone contain over 400 different harmful chemicals absorbed by paint, furniture, carpeting, drapes and other people’s lungs. Creating an outdoor smoking area keeps these toxic fumes away from precious people and animals.

As people spend most of their time inside, taking these six simple steps to improve indoor air quality in the summertime makes sense. By purchasing the right kind of houseplants, keeping bedding clean, installing welcome mats, using quality air conditioner filters, turning on exhaust fans and creating a no smoking zone, homes become healthier. Everyone enjoys these sparkling, freshly cleaned areas.

The first step to repair toilet problems lies in the tank underneath the lid.  The plumbing may work fine, but if the parts are jammed or out of sync, they must be fixed first.  If your tank is stuck and is not filling with the water that will drain into the bowl, examine the stopper at the bottom to ensure that it is not out of place.  If the chain to the stopper is caught, or if the stopper does not close all the way, a tank will not fill.  When you repair toilet tank problems, you usually do not need to replace any parts.

If an object has been lodged within the pipe and cannot be removed by plunging, you do not necessarily need to call a plumber.  Using a snake to pull out the clog will not cost a hefty fee, but requires getting your hands dirty.  Use a coat hanger or similar piece of thin metal with a hook to reach into the pipe and pull back to dislodge the obstruction.  If you cannot get a hold of the clog, you will have to remove part of the pipe.  Turn off the water supply to the fixtures and unscrew the circular pipe leading into the plumbing.  Use a solid object like a stick or plastic tube to repair toilet fixtures by pushing out the obstruction.

When the fixture starts and stops running water, the problem usually involves a slow leak.  This is the most dreaded problem when having to repair toilet parts, because you have to figure out where it comes from.  Put a dye tablet in the tank and check an hour later to see if the bowl has the same color.  Drain the tank and check for leaks.  Use caulk to plug any leaks.  If the drain is in your pipe, you will have to replace the pipe part or seal it with a blowtorch.

1.  Soft and Mellow Lights

Just because it is warm weather does not mean the fireplace needs to be dark and dreary. An assortment of lit candles creates flickering light to be enjoyed any time. The candles can be placed in the candelabra, on a tray or in individual stands of varying heights. Adding branches, dried flowers, mirrors or brightly colored, shiny ribbons brings color.  A string of white Christmas lights wrapped around firewood or a softly glowing lamp highlighting pine cones are just a few fireplace ideas that sparkle.

2.  Big and Bold Themes

Using fireplace ideas to celebrate events can become addictive. A Father’s Day theme features a fishing basket on the mantle and a pole leaning against it with vests, waders, lures and brochures arranged inside the box.  For the Fourth of July, a picnic basket, stars and stripes flags and red, white and blue themes decorate this interesting area.

3.  Natural Displays

This natural setting loves to show off and display whatever is placed there. Bouquets of flowers or shimmering green houseplants bring life to the room and accolades for fireplace ideas. Highlighting small green treasures like African violets or draping spider plants on the mantle while using the hearth for willowy English ivy and flowering mums lets every plant shine.

4.  Brag-a-lot Collections

This unique stage displays prized collections. Whether the homeowner is proud of the 53 salt-and-pepper sets, antique fishing reels, childhood dolls, colorful hats or cowboy boots, now is the perfect time to publicly enjoy these objects. Conversations will never be dull when visitors encounter this unusual grouping.

5.  Works of Art

Using the blank canvas of an unused firebox to display works of art is the most creative of all the fireplace ideas. Groups of pictures, semi-professional photographs, sculptures, clay creations or garden art displayed here intrigue viewers. Treasures can be collected all year for this summertime fun.

With these five extraordinary fireplace ideas, the fireplace is a captivating event. By using lights, themes, natural goods, favorite groups and art, this arena shimmers with fun. The living room is a delightful place all summer long.

1.  When there is no more hot water coming from the water heater. This can happen suddenly.  Overnight the old heater stops working and in the morning the water is cold.  No one can shower. Or, the problem could come on gradually with a slow reduction of water temperature or widely fluctuating temperatures ranging from barely warm to scalding hot. Although the problem may be upper and lower heating elements or the thermostat that regulates the unit’s water temperature, these units have a life expectancy of only 13 years. Replacing older units instead of repairing them is a wise financial decision.

2.  When the hot water heater is leaking. The unit corrodes and begins to drip water. The pressure release valve begins to malfunction. Lucky homeowners discover the problem when they notice a slow drip or a small puddle of water, while unlucky homeowners discover flooded basements or hallways and have to deal with water cleanup.

3.  When the hot water heater begins to rust. The normally clean, cool clear water begins to look, smell or taste funny from the hot water tap. Internal problems cause the metal inside of the tank to rust. The water coming from the heating unit is discolored and stains fabrics, plastics and sinks.

4.  When the homeowner’s water needs change. As families expand, more hot water is needed for morning showers, personal hygiene, laundry and dishwashing. A larger tank lets everyone bathe in comfort. And when the last child has left for college, water usage will obviously go down. Replacing a large, older water heater with a smaller size saves money.

5.  When homeowners are concerned with energy efficiency. According to Energy Star, the energy used in a typical home by the water heater energy is only exceeded by the heating and cooling. A more efficient unit reduces energy costs every month. There are two costs to consider: the purchase price and the utility bill. Comparing energy demands between an older inefficient model and a new energy smart heater shows homeowners how much money they can save a year by switching to a new model.

Keeping It Simple

Whether installing a new kitchen sink or replacing an old one, buying the right product is first step. The unit must fit the space. When working with a new countertop, the sink’s opening is carefully marked before the hole is cut. Replacement sinks are easier as the old ones just need to be removed. However, using the same style of washbasin saves time and money as the plumbing is in the right position.

Working Smart

After professional plumbers dry fit the sparkling new kitchen sink in the hole, they make life easy by turning the unit upside down across two saw horses to install the strainer, tailpiece and faucets. The strainer is wrapped with plumber’s putty before inserted to eliminate leaks. After attaching the various components of the tailpiece, energetic plumbers install the faucets. Next the sink’s lip is caulked and the unit set in place.

Now as soon as water and drain pipes are connected, the job is done. The water connections are quickly attached. However, the tailpiece requires a trap and drain elbow customized for each space. The different pieces of PVC pipe will be cut to length and assembled to make sure they are the correct lengths. Then the ends are cleaned with a utility knife and coated with the PVC primer. As soon as the primer is dry, PVC cement can be smeared on both ends being joined, pushed into place and held for 30 seconds.

Making an Easy Exit

The last step is verifying hot and cold water comes from the right faucet and the drain is leak free. After filling the basin with water, the homeowner leaves knowing the job is done. The weight of the water pulls the unit down while the caulk dries creating a solid, waterproof barrier around this exquisite new kitchen sink.

Installing a sink can be stress free. All it takes is the best information and process. This procedure is to buy the right kitchen sink, preinstall faucets, drain basket and tailpipe and check for problems.

1 — Get it all out.  You will never be able to organize everything and plan your garage ideas without a clean slate.  Remove all tools, supplies, machines, and decor from the area prior to any cleaning job.  Wash down the floor, use a leaf blower to eliminate cobwebs, and run a fan to get fresh air in.

2 — Draw your battle lines.  The best garage ideas require physical space, but too much only leads to more cluttering.  Use tape or string to divide the space you need: automobiles in one spot, work bench in another, freezer in the corner, sports supplies on the wall, etc.  Do not try to stuff more in, leave that for another room in the house.

3 — Decide what is important for indoors and what is not.  You need to keep certain items indoors to prevent damage; the car obviously takes highest priority, while you certainly cannot keep buckets of paint outside.  Firewood, pet sanitation, and trash can be kept outside without a problem.

4 — Maximize space.  You can use a peg board to keep tools, protective clothing, and auto care products without taking up a single inch of floor space.  Some garage ideas use the actual ceiling, with an array of holsters and frames that can support half a dozen bicycles without a problem.

5 — Keep a cleaning schedule.  There is a fine line between storage and clutter, but you will not cross it if you regularly have upkeep.  You need to change a car’s oil every six months: try planning to clean the garage on the same day.

Your best garage ideas may just as easily be applied to attics, sheds, porches, and basements.  You only need to keep your car in the garage, so other items can be placed in other parts of the house without losing the convenience: after all, the garage may even be less convenient if the door is difficult to open or if the garage is any distance from the house.

What’s more relaxing than enjoying a long soak in a piping hot water from the comforts of your bathroom?  Five crucial bathtub tips should be considered by homeowners when thinking about installing a new fixture.

1) Measure the exact dimensions of your bathroom for proper fits.  You will have to be running water lines, and possibly power, into the area of your new tub.  If you do not have the proper fit, not only will the tub possibly be too big but the water pressure may be off or may not be able to be properly heated.  The most important bathtub tips necessitate measuring to an accuracy of at least an eighth of an inch.

2) Decide which materials you would like your tub to be.  There is certainly an aesthetic to a marble or stone bathtub, lending an air of elegance and class to any bathroom, but these tubs can cost four to five times that of their ceramic counterparts and must be installed on reinforced flooring.  Bathtub tips for the composition usually suggest balancing the financial and the visual: porcelain or marble looks far better than plastic or concrete, but will run a much higher tab.

3) Pick a color that matches your bathroom.  It may seem odd, considering that so many tubs are a simple white, but the color coordination process can be the difference between an unsightly and unsatisfactory tub or a fitting addition to the room.  Sheer white complements any color scheme, but this does not mean you have to go along with it automatically: bathtub tips for color matching suggest darker shades for earth-tone designs or creamy colors for rooms that have more natural light.

4) Compare the prices available from every retailer.  You may certainly find a great deal from an online retailer, but many home improvement stores may have bargain deals that make the decision favor buying a tub that you have seen on their show floor.  Ask store managers if they will match the prices of their competitors.  If you are comfortable with purchasing a used model, you can save hundreds of dollars.

5) Decide on installation.  You may have the time and courage to install it yourself, but the complexities of plumbing and heating can be too much for some people: the best bathtub tips may be to leave it to a professional who can quickly have it up and running in only a few hours.

Your home office desk should be a sanctuary where you can get uninterrupted work done and focus on your tasks.  There are ten essential items that you should keep on a home office desk in order to keep your attention, avoid stress, and keep your space tidy.

1) Proper lighting — keeping your focus on a monitor or stack of papers in the darkness will restrict your concentration by forcing you to adjust your vision, or worse, cause a mistake.  Get a desk lamp that will provide enough light that you can clearly read a book from a foot and a half away.

2) Timepiece — whether digital or analog, everyone needs to keep track of the hours and days.  You may want an all-in-one organizer that automatically reminds you of updates and appointments, or you may merely want a calendar that provides information or humor each day.

3) Seat cushion — you may be sitting down for hours on end at a home office desk, so keep enough extra padding on hand to avoid cramps or sore joints.  Some cushions are heated to increase blood flow, feeling great for tense muscles.

4) Office supply holder — some people need a mini desk file, others just use a large cup, but everyone needs to keep their pens, pencils, and other office supplies in one place.

5) Pictures or mementos — remember why you are hard at work!  Keep photos of family members or friends at a home office desk, or frame memorabilia from vacations, concerts, sporting events and so forth to remember what your efforts are for.

6) Stress ball — everyone gets frustrated, so take out the tension from your work with a sand or plastic filled ball that you can squeeze to your heart’s content.

7) Dictionary and thesaurus — nobody enjoys reading misspellings or repeated vocabulary, so ensure accuracy and spice up your lexicon with the proper texts.

Music player — keep your mind on task with appropriate atmosphere: whether you need ambient background music, classical scores to increase your intellect, or new-age beats to spark creativity, use an mp3, CD, or cassette player to run your favorite tunes.

9) Big binder — papers can get shuffled or lost or torn, and rather than using a clunky file cabinet you just need a simple binder to hold all your important documents.

10) Dish of favorite candy — work gets done faster with an injection of chocolate or sugar, so keep jelly beans or M&Ms on hand at your home office desk for an afternoon pick-me-up.