Author: Belinda Dorman

Tools For the Handyman

Handymen are skilled at a variety of home repair and maintenance tasks. They can refinish floors, fix holes in walls, install new light fixtures, and make minor electrical repairs.

They also know how to assemble furniture and refinish cabinets. Handymen can save homeowners money by repairing or replacing damaged items. Contact Emerald City Handyman of Naperville now!

Handyman 🔧 DIY * Professional Service * Philippines

One of the most important tools a handyman needs is fish tape. It allows them to run wires and cables through walls and tight spaces. This is a common task when installing lighting, doorbells and other electrical fixtures. There are several different types of fish tape, so it’s important to choose the right one for the job. Steel fish tapes are good for long runs through conduit, while fiberglass ones can handle tight bends and insulated walls.

A discerning pro will likely select a fish tape with a nonconductive lead and laser-etched measurement markings that won’t scratch off over time. These features reduce the risk of a short, which can injure the professional and cause substantial property damage. Ideal Industries notes that electricians and information transport systems installers use fish tapes daily to snake electrical wires and cables through conduit, finished walls and hard-to-reach spaces above ceilings and below flooring.

It’s also important to use proper hand techniques when working with fish tape. The sharp end can cut bare hands, so it’s best to wear gloves whenever possible. This helps prevent blisters and other injuries. The pliers or wrenches used to hold the fish tape should be large enough to accommodate the head of the tape, and it’s helpful to keep an eye out for any burrs or other obstructions that could interfere with operation.

To use fish tape, simply unwind a portion of the tape and extend it to the desired location. Then, push the tape into the wall or conduit to pull it. It’s a good idea to apply a wire pulling lubricant to the tape, which can help reduce friction and make it easier to feed through the wall or conduit.

Electrical Tape

Electrical tape is one of the most valuable tools in a handyman’s toolbox, offering insulation and quick fixes for wire damage. Understanding the different types, uses, and application techniques will help ensure safety during electrical work, making it an essential part of any project.

Electrical tape insulates electrical wires and prevents short circuits. It also helps to keep electric currents contained, which is crucial in preventing fire hazards. It can be used to repair cracks or frays in cords or wires and is also often used to mark different electrical phases, leads, or items.

Most electrical tapes are made from non-conductive materials, so they will not conduct electricity. They are also resistant to heat, moisture, and corrosion. However, they can be damaged by exposure to UV rays, so it is important to check the label for details. Most electrical tapes are rated by their minimum and maximum temperature ratings, so it is important to choose the right type for each job.

It is important to note that electrical tape should never be used to cover live wires. Even if it is only covering a small portion of the cord, this could cause an unsafe situation. It is best to use a dielectric spray before applying electrical tape to any exposed wiring. It is also a good idea to check that the tape has been applied correctly before applying any power to the wires. This will ensure that the tape has a solid bond and won’t come loose. Moreover, it will also protect the wiring from any accidental contact with other objects. If in doubt, a quick consultation with an electrician will ensure that you are using the correct product for your project.

Circular Saw

A circular saw can be an indispensable tool for any handyman, as it allows them to make fast and accurate cuts through wood. It’s important to choose the right type of saw for your job, based on factors like size, blade size, bevel capacity, and cutting depth. You should also consider whether you’ll be using the saw for a single project or as part of a larger home improvement effort.

If you need to cut at an angle, a bevel adjustment lever or knob can be loosened to tilt the base of the saw and adjust the position of the blade. It’s important to double-check the blade bevel setting against your marked cutting line to ensure accuracy and that you’re working with a safe angle. You should also be sure to check that the guard can’t get snagged by anything metal before you start cutting.

The shoe of the saw, which sits on the material you’re cutting, can be made from steel, aluminum or magnesium and may be flat or cast. Cast shoes have raised reinforcing ribs on the surface that help prevent them from bending or breaking if you drop your saw. Steel shoes are typically lighter but may not hold up to as much wear and tear as cast metal ones.

You can find a wide variety of circular saws online or at your local hardware store, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with all the features before you buy one. Take into account the saw’s power source (corded or cordless), blade size, bevel capability and cutting depth, shoe type and bevel adjustment, and whether you prefer a right- or left-blade model.

Drill

As a handyman, you will be drilling a lot of holes, so it’s important to have a good drill. There are a variety of different types of drills on the market, so make sure you choose one that is designed for the type of material you will be using it with. For example, some drills are specifically designed for wood while others are more suitable for metalwork or machine tool fabrication. In addition, you should choose a cordless drill that can be easily moved around your workspace and is easy to operate.

A hammer is one of the most useful tools you can have as a handyman, especially if you do any work that involves putting up pictures or hanging items on the wall. It can also come in handy when you are repairing damage to a surface or preparing it for painting. A quality hammer should be comfortable to hold and not too heavy so it doesn’t put too much strain on your hands when you use it.

A utility knife is another great tool to have as a handyman, as it can be used for a wide variety of tasks involving cutting materials. It’s also an essential part of a tool kit for DIY projects, such as assembling furniture or making home improvements. When choosing a utility knife, look for a model that has a retractable blade to protect yourself from cuts. It’s also a good idea to choose a model with multiple attachments, so you can switch out the blades when needed. Also, be sure to choose a durable model that can withstand heavy use and frequent use. You might also consider a variable speed setting to accommodate various materials.

Wrench

A wrench is a tool used to turn fasteners. Handymen use a variety of wrenches to help with different tasks, including removing and replacing items. Some wrenches are designed to be used with a ratcheting mechanism that allows users to apply more force with each turn. This can save time when working with a fastener that is difficult to loosen.

A socket wrench has a recess that fits the edges of a nut or bolt head, typically hexagonal in shape. This type of wrench is ideal for tightening wing nuts, as it can apply more torque than a standard open-end wrench. It is also used in some stringed musical instruments to tune the strings by applying more tension.

Another wrench often used by a handyman is the adjustable wrench, which has a fixed end and a movable jaw. This allows it to grip a wider range of fasteners and is useful when access to the area where the fastener is located is restricted. Adjustable wrenches are available in both metric and standard (also known as S.A.E) sizes, so it is important to know what size wrench you need before purchasing one.

Whether you’re a professional or an amateur, having the right tools can help you tackle any task. However, a handyman should always be mindful of their tool’s limitations and should never resort to using excessive force on stubborn or rusted fasteners. This can damage both the tool and the fastener, so it is best to seek out professional assistance when needed. If you’re in need of an experienced, reliable handyman, contact NEXT today! We’ll connect you with a local provider in minutes.

Benefits of Custom Blinds and Shades

Blinds

Make your home look amazing with custom blinds and shades. Get control over natural light and privacy in your home with window treatments crafted to the exact dimensions of your windows.Blinds

Whether you want to add sleek wood blinds in a classic color to your dining room or woven grass shades that bring a natural element into your living space, you can find options for every style and budget. Contact Custom Blinds and Shades KY for professional help.

Unlike off-the-shelf options, custom blinds and shades are made to your specifications. They’re a smarter investment because they ensure an impeccable fit along windows and doors, creating a unified design narrative across your interior. Additionally, they allow you to choose from a wide selection of styles and materials that match your design preferences.

When you shop for window treatments, consider what your priorities are: Are they regulating glare and heat gain, lowering your home’s energy bills, or improving aesthetics? Whether your answers are yes to one, two or all of these questions, reputable companies like i9 Blinds offer custom blind and shade options that meet and even exceed those needs.

In addition to their perfect fit, custom blinds and shades also come in a variety of textures, colors, patterns, and operating mechanisms to complement your existing decor. This flexibility makes them a design essential for homes and commercial spaces.

Custom Blinds

There are many different types of custom blinds, but the most popular are wood and faux wood. They bring a sense of warmth and natural beauty to the space, complementing the color scheme of any room. They’re also a durable option, resisting humidity and other environmental factors.

Another type of customized window treatment is cellular shades, which are a highly-effective, energy efficient choice. They are available in a variety of fabric choices, allowing you to select the opacity level and cell size that suits your lighting and insulation needs best.

Finally, roller shades and awnings are a stylish and functional way to control light in any room. They are available in an array of fabrics, from woven wood to linen to faux leather. They are a great solution for rooms that receive lots of sunlight and need to be protected from sun damage.

While both blinds and shades can improve the look of your home, the difference between them lies in how they’re used. Blinds are more practical for reducing sunlight, as they are easily adjustable to your desired light filtering or blocking. Shades, on the other hand, provide a more decorative aesthetic with patterned designs and colors that add personality to the room.

Installation

Unlike ready-made options, custom blinds are made to your window dimensions, ensuring a precision fit and a polished look. They also have a variety of textures, designs, and styles to choose from, so you can create the perfect window treatment for your space.

Outfitting your windows with custom blinds doesn’t have to be a huge commitment. You can typically order a set and have them delivered to your door within a week or two. And while they may not be a permanent fixture if you’re planning on moving soon, you can always take them with you, or store them in a box until your next home is ready for them.

The first step to installing new window shades or blinds is removing any existing curtains or window treatments from your windows. You’ll also want to be sure to measure your windows precisely for the most precise fit. Using a tape measure and level is essential to ensure your measurements are accurate.

Once you have your measurements, it’s time to start the installation process. You’ll likely need to install brackets into your wall or window frame. These brackets are where the headrail of your blinds will snap into. It’s important that the brackets are fastened into a stud or wood beam, which you can usually find by looking at your window frame or wall.

After installing the brackets, you can begin to install your custom window shades or blinds. Most manufacturers will provide specific instructions for how to do this, so be sure to follow them closely. Depending on the type of blinds or shade, you may need to fasten cover plates, twisting wands, or valance clips, so be sure to follow any additional instructions.

Custom Window blinds are a great way to upgrade your living space and increase comfort, style, and functionality. And while installing them yourself might seem like a big undertaking, it’s actually quite simple and can be done in less than an hour. So don’t be afraid to take on this personal project and make your home a more comfortable, stylish, and functional space for years to come.

Energy Efficiency

Window blinds and shades provide an extra layer of insulation to your windows, reducing energy loss during winter and keeping your home cooler in summer. This energy efficiency can significantly reduce your energy bills. They also help protect furniture, carpets, hardwood floors and other household items from fading due to UV exposure.

Choosing the right materials and designs also improves the energy efficiency of your custom blinds and shades. For example, natural materials like bamboo and woven wood add an eco-friendly touch and are available in light filtering and blackout options to suit any design. Blinds made from reclaimed woods or recycled fabrics eliminate waste, while low-VOC finishes contribute to healthy indoor air quality.

Innovative designs like dual shades allow you to customize your blinds for both daytime light-filtering and evening darkening. This flexibility provides more precise control of light and privacy, allowing you to create the ideal ambiance for each space in your home.

One of the biggest energy-saving benefits of custom blinds is their precise fit, which eliminates gaps that can let heat escape during winter and hot air in during summer. They are also a great way to control glare, protecting your eyes from UV radiation while maintaining visibility to the outside world.

Blinds with a honeycomb or transitional style are particularly effective at preventing heat loss, thanks to their insulated pockets that trap air. This helps to keep your home warmer during winter and cooler in the summer, lowering your energy costs while contributing to a healthier environment.

Another popular option for energy-efficiency is cellular blinds, which are available in a variety of styles and colors to complement any room in your home. They also come in a wide range of light-filtering and blackout fabrics to meet any taste or style preference, making them perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, media rooms and more.

Roman shades offer a sleek, elegant appearance and are available in both light-filtering and blackout fabrics to complement any interior design. They have a heavy, pleated fabric that is designed to envelope the window, providing excellent insulation and blocking sunlight from overheating your rooms. This energy-efficiency benefit is even more pronounced when paired with window motorized drapes, which allows you to schedule automated window shade and drapery movements for optimal energy savings.

Maintenance

With proper maintenance, custom window blinds and shades can last for years. Regular cleaning can remove dirt and grime, preventing it from damaging the material and keeping it in good condition. A feather duster or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is a good option for light dusting, while a soft cloth with gentle soap solution can be used to address more stubborn stains. It is also important to address spills and stains promptly, as they can cause discoloration or damage the fabric.

The type of material your window treatments are made from will determine the best way to clean them. For example, wood blinds can be cleaned using a damp cloth soaked in mild detergent or water, but it is important not to submerge them or allow them to remain wet for too long, as this can lead to warping or damage. For fabric blinds, washing them in warm water and a gentle dish soap is typically all that is needed, although it may be necessary to use a more intensive cleaning method for heavily stained items.

Shades made of natural materials, such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled fabrics are often available with low-VOC finishes, which can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce harmful chemical vapors. These options are both stylish and environmentally friendly, making them a great choice for families with children or pets.

A custom-made blind or shade will be sized to perfectly fit your window, maximizing energy efficiency and eliminating gaps that could let heat escape in winter and enter in summer. A professional touch also ensures that the product will function properly, and any potential issues will be addressed quickly to keep your home comfortable and safe.

While many window blinds can be purchased from a variety of stores, it is important to consult with a professional before investing in new products. A reputable company will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date designs and trends, while offering a high level of service and support.

The Benefits of Home Remodeling

Home Remodeling

Whether it’s a sketch on the back of a cocktail napkin or full-blown architectural plans, having a plan for your home remodel is essential. This will help you avoid costly mistakes and save time. Remodeling and renovating are similar but different projects. A remodel involves changing the use of a space, while a renovation is simply updating an existing space with cosmetic changes.Home Remodeling

Norton Home Remodeling is a commitment, both in time and expense. But one of the benefits is that home improvements can increase the resale value of a property.

Homeowners can also choose to remodel a home with the goal of making it more livable for their own purposes. This can mean adding an extra bedroom or converting a garage into a living space. It might be a whole house remodel, or just an update to the kitchen, bathroom, or exterior.

However, homeowners should carefully consider if the improvement is worth it before undertaking such a project. The cost of a home remodel can be high and it’s important to make sure that you are financially prepared for the potential expenses. Having a budget and being able to stick to it is important.

The type of home remodeling that provides the best return on investment is typically more cosmetic changes rather than structural. For example, refinishing hardwood floors returns more than double the amount invested in the project, according to the National Association of Realtors 2022 Remodeling Impact Report. Other projects that provide good ROI include manufactured stone veneer installation and wood deck additions. Those that don’t provide as good an ROI include garage door replacement and a master suite addition.

More Space

Home remodeling is one of the best ways to create more space in your home. Whether you are a single person living in a small apartment or a family of four in a large house, everyone can benefit from more space in their homes. With the help of modern technology, designers can provide clients with realistic 3D visualizations that allow them to make changes and see how their renovation ideas will look in advance.

Another way to create more space in your home is by knocking down unnecessary walls and opening up floor plans. This is often done in kitchens, living rooms, and dining areas, where a wall can be easily removed to make room for a larger area. This can make a massive difference in how spacious your home feels and also allows you to get creative with furniture placement and storage spaces.

Additionally, many homeowners use home remodeling to expand their living space by converting attic or basement spaces into functional rooms. These can be turned into extra bedrooms, family rooms, home theaters, or whatever you can imagine! This gives homeowners more space to live in, and it also helps them to enjoy their home as much as possible.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Home remodeling offers you the opportunity to make your home energy efficient, saving you money on utility bills while also making your house greener. You can install solar panels, choose energy-efficient appliances and increase insulation in your attic. These improvements aren’t only good for the environment, but they will also help you save on your electricity bills and make your home more comfortable year-round.

A gut renovation can be the best time to improve your home’s energy efficiency, but even a minor remodel can make a big difference. For example, if you’re adding a bathroom or kitchen, installing low-flow faucets and energy-efficient appliances will greatly decrease your household’s energy usage. And if you’re building an addition, using recycled materials is a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency without increasing the cost of the project.

Many older homes have poor circulation, ventilation and air quality, which can lead to mildew, mold and respiratory problems. These issues can cause a wide range of symptoms, including shortness of breath, coughing, sinusitis and itchy eyes. By using best construction practices during your remodel, you can eliminate moisture issues and prevent these health concerns in the future. This will help to ensure that you and your family are healthy and happy.

Lower Utility Bills

Home remodeling projects offer a great opportunity to make energy-efficient upgrades. From improving insulation to installing new, energy-efficient windows and doors, these upgrades can save you money on your utility bills while helping the environment.

In addition, upgrading your fixtures to energy-efficient models can also help you save on maintenance costs. For example, replacing standard power strips with smart ones that automatically cut off electric current to appliances when they’re not in use can reduce wasted energy.

Adding insulation to walls, ceilings, and attics is another way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Using newer materials, such as ICF construction, can create extensions or rooms with superior insulation that provides exceptional protection against extreme weather conditions and lowers your heating and cooling costs.

Investing in your home’s remodeling is a great way to increase its value, make it more livable, and enjoy a better quality of life. In addition, it can help you build equity in your home, which can be useful if you plan to sell it or want to borrow against its value in the future. To maximize the return on your investment, you should work with an experienced professional when planning your project.

Reduced Maintenance Needs

Home remodeling allows homeowners to customize their living space based on their individual needs and tastes. Whether it’s adding an extra bedroom, upgrading the kitchen or creating a home theater in the basement, contractors will work with the client to make sure the new design matches their dream home.

This customization often leads to reduced maintenance needs, as spaces can be designed with modern upgrades that are easier to care for than older fixtures. Additionally, many home improvement projects can help reduce energy costs. For example, adding insulation in the attic or crawlspace can lower heating and cooling bills. Newer windows and doors also improve energy efficiency.

Lastly, some clients choose to remodel their homes because they want them to be more environmentally friendly. Older buildings or homes may have been built with outdated materials that weren’t created using ecological industry standards. Home remodeling can allow the homeowner to replace these materials with modern electrical, plumbing and structural framing that’s more eco-friendly.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Many people don’t realize that indoor air quality is an important factor in their health. In fact, pollutants in an indoor environment can cause allergies and breathing problems and may lead to more serious health issues if they aren’t dealt with over time.

Home remodeling can have a positive impact on the overall health and well-being of the occupants of a home by improving the indoor air quality. This is accomplished by installing insulated doors and windows, using low-VOC paints and stains, replacing gas stoves with electric versions, and ensuring that proper ventilation is in place.

During the construction process, various activities such as sanding, painting and demolition can release harmful particles, chemicals and volatile organic compounds into the air. These contaminants can be harmful if inhaled and can also affect the health of family members. However, a seasoned contractor will take steps to mitigate these risks by isolating the construction area, opening windows, and installing effective air filtration systems to keep these contaminants from spreading to other areas of the house.

Once the renovation is complete, homeowners can continue to improve indoor air quality by regularly changing the air filters in their HVAC systems and by implementing natural living tips such as using plants (which are nature’s air purifiers) in the home and keeping moisture levels under control to prevent mildew and other structural damage. These are simple things that can make a big difference in the overall health and comfort of the home’s occupants.

Increased Home Comfort

Whether you are updating your kitchen with modern appliances or adding a home theater, a well-planned remodel will make your home more enjoyable and useful to you. It’s also a great opportunity to improve your home’s comfort by lowering energy bills and improving indoor air quality.

Remodeling also provides a chance to repair faults and upgrade outdated systems before they become bigger problems. For example, a leaky roof or old windows can be repaired before they become a major problem that could cost more to fix later.

If you are planning to sell your home in the future, home remodeling can help you increase the value of your house. This will allow you to get a better return on your investment and possibly avoid having to pay capital gains tax. Additionally, remodeling can help you lower your mortgage payments and build equity in your home.

Lastly, home remodeling is a great way to make your house more personal and unique. By choosing the right colors, materials and fixtures, you can create a home that reflects your style and taste. You can even choose eco-friendly building materials that reduce waste and promote sustainability. This allows you to feel good about living in your home and also makes it a place that is welcoming for guests.

Why You Should Hire a Residential Plumber

Plumbing

Plumbing services are a large part of everyday life. They keep our homes clean and functional and help us enjoy hot showers, clean sinks, and fully-functional toilets. Choosing one with the right skills and experience is important when looking for a plumber. You can also make sure they are licensed and insured.

PlumbingPlumbing systems are essential to any building, from residential homes to office buildings. They provide water, sewage, and drainage to maintain the entire space properly. You must hire a professional plumber to properly install your home’s plumbing. This will help to prevent any issues down the line, including leaks or burst pipes.

A plumber can install new piping, repair existing ones and maintain the system. This includes repairing or replacing septic tanks and sewer lines. The costs of installing plumbing vary depending on the size of the house and the materials used. You should also consider the number of bathrooms and other fixtures in the house and the labor hours required for each project.

Home owners will typically pay for a plumbing installation using a home equity line of credit (HELOC). This allows you to borrow as much or as little money as needed to complete the project. If you are unsure how much a plumbing installation will cost, ask your local contractor for a quote. They will be able to give you an estimate based on their experience.

The first step in a plumbing project is to map out the system. This involves determining the size and location of each pipe, including vents, drains and other connections. It will also be necessary to determine the layout of fixtures and appliances. In some cases, the plumber will need to cut away walls or ceilings to open up the path for the new piping. This is a time-consuming process, which requires specialized equipment and experience.

A plumber will then install the piping, taking care to make all of the seals and connections firm. Then he will turn the water back on and test to see that everything works correctly. Another way to lower the cost of a plumbing installation is to plan out the work ahead of time. This will help you to avoid overspending on the project, which can be a major factor in determining how much the overall job will cost.

A plumbing professional will be able to offer advice on how to reduce the cost of your installation by planning and organizing your work ahead of time. This will ensure that your plumbing work is done as efficiently as possible, and it will save you money in the long run.

Your home’s plumbing system is one of the most important components of your home. It supplies water for your household’s needs, including washing and bathing, and it helps to keep the outside of your house and landscaping healthy with fresh water.

However, the pipes and fixtures in your home can develop problems and require repairs. These can range from small problems such as a leaky faucet to a major plumbing emergency that can require the assistance of a professional plumber.

Depending on the nature of your problem, your plumber can handle it safely and efficiently. For example, if you need to replace an old toilet, your plumber will be able to install a new one with ease without harming the wall around it or any other pipes in your home.

Another benefit of hiring a plumber is that they can help you save money on your energy and water bills. They can suggest ways to conserve water, like removing weeds and using fertilizers sparingly. They also can recommend energy-efficient appliances that will save you money on your energy bill.

For example, a plumber can install low-flow showerheads and toilets that use less water. This can save you money on your water bill and help to protect the environment.

A plumber can also help you maintain your drains and prevent clogs. This is especially important for kitchen and bathroom drains that are vulnerable to food and hair clogs.

When your plumber comes out to inspect your drains and sewer line, they will use a number of tools to clear the gunk from your sewer lines. These include motorized drain augers, which can break up a clog before it becomes large enough to cause problems.

If you have a plumbing problem, call a plumber near you to schedule an appointment. This will ensure that your plumber can reach you quickly to assess the issue and fix it immediately.

Most homeowners are surprised when their plumbing systems experience problems such as drains that don’t drain or sewer lines that back up into their homes. These issues can be frustrating and costly to resolve, but they can be avoided by following a few simple maintenance tips.

A clogged drain is the most common plumbing problem in homes. They form when organic debris like food, hair, skin cells, soap scum, and other particles get stuck inside your pipes. This can lead to a serious clog or blockage that requires professional drain cleaning services.

A professional plumber will use snaking or hydro jetting techniques to unclog your drains and pipes. They also inspect your pipes and sewer lines to make sure they are free from blockages.

If you notice gurgling sounds in your pipes, air bubbles rising from your sink or shower, or sewage smells in the bathroom or kitchen, it is time to call a drain cleaner. A reputable plumber will check out your drain system, find the root cause of your issue and fix it in record time.

Another common sign of a drain blockage is slow drainage. A clogged drain can take up to 10 minutes to empty completely, and you may notice your sink or shower taking longer than normal.

These issues can also indicate a bigger issue that needs repair, such as a pipe bursting or an overflowing toilet, sink or shower. You should hire a drain cleaning professional as soon as these problems are discovered to avoid water damage and additional costs.

Residential plumbers will clean your drains with a combination of snaking, hydro jetting and other tools. This will help to remove the toughest clogs and prevent them from forming again.

They will use specialized snake augers and drain cameras to find the source of any blockage, then clear it out. Depending on the severity of the clog, they may also use chemical drain cleaners to unclog your pipes.

Many homeowners opt to avoid using chemicals in their home, but if you have an especially stubborn clog that doesn’t respond well to snaking or other DIY techniques, then it’s best to call a professional. They will have the proper equipment and experience to remove your clog without damaging your pipes, sinks, or other fixtures.

ARS/Rescue Rooter offers a specialized drain-cleaning product called DrainRight, which is 100% biodegradable and safe to use in your home. We use this product to liquefy and disperse grease, soap scum, and other waste buildup in your pipes.

Water heaters are highly complex pieces of equipment that should be installed only by fully licensed and experienced plumbers. Homeowners who attempt to install their own water heaters run the risk of serious damage, including shock and gas leaks.

Most new water heaters come with installation instructions and lots of warnings about working safely with gas, electricity and other piping. However, many of the complexities of plumbing and installing a new water heater can be daunting even for seasoned technicians.

If you are planning on replacing a traditional tank type water heater, the process generally takes about three hours, though the work will vary based on your needs and the size and type of your old unit. In addition to the tank, you may need to reroute water or gas piping, frame a wall, install drywall, extend electrical wiring and other additional work.

The cost of a water heater installation depends on the contractor you choose. Higher-quality contractors will charge more but will typically get the job done correctly the first time, saving you on future service calls.

Having your new water heater installed by a professional will also ensure that it is compliant with your local city’s plumbing codes. This means that the project will be inspected by one of your local city inspectors so they can ensure the work is done properly and safely.

A qualified plumber will be able to answer questions you may have about the installation process, such as how much a new tank costs, which type of unit to purchase and if the water heater is eligible for any tax credits or rebates. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your new water heater is the right one for you.

When you have a water heater installed by a plumber, you will receive a labor warranty on the work done. This warranty will protect you from unexpected repair bills if your new water heater breaks down due to work performed by the plumber.

If you have a new water heater installed by a retailer, it is important to communicate with the company about the quality of the product and any concerns or problems you may experience in the future. Retailers often have no control over the quality of the products they sell, so you should be sure to select a high-quality model.