Blog | Residential and Commercial Plumbing

36 Ways to Show Gratitude During National Gratitude Month

November 30, 2018 by Admin Leave a Comment

National Gratitude Month is celebrated annually in November. It’s a month to be more mindful and thankful for all we have and been given.

woman showing gratitude — Showing gratitude is a good thing to do

Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.”. Gratitude makes us focus more on the positive side of our lives rather than dwelling on the negative. This is why practicing gratitude daily helps us develop a deeper connection to our own self, the people around us, to the world and our Creator.

How we see our lives can be greatly enhanced when we practice being grateful. Research has shown how gratitude can decrease stress, enhance mood and improve our mental health and overall well being. People who practice gratefulness tend to have less stress, less anxiety and depression, are more physically fit and happier. They are also more satisfied with their relationships, either professional or personal. Even kids who practice being grateful perform better in school.

Imagine if everybody practiced gratefulness on a daily basis. It would change everybody’s perspective in themselves and the planet! Everybody would be happier and the world would be without hate. The planet would know peace.

Here are some ways to show your gratitude in this Thanksgiving season.

For the Ones Who Love You

Do something thoughtful for them that you don’t usually do.
Give them a long, warm hug to make them feel your appreciation.
Be there for them whenever they need someone to talk to and give them your full attention.
Give them a heartfelt gift and tell them why you want them to have it.
Encourage them to do something out of the norm they’ve been wanting to try.
Give them a sincere compliment on a skill or a talent that you admire.

For the Ones Who Challenge You

Resist the urge to say that they are wrong.
Listen fully to what they are saying instead of just thinking about your reply.
Thank them for making you see a different perspective even if you still don’t agree with them.
Tell them that you admire their commitment in what they believe in.
Challenge them back but do it with love and positivity.
Use what you’ve learned from your interactions with them, be it courage, patience, or compassion.
Let them know that you appreciate them for challenging you and be kind and calm when you do this.

For the Ones Who Serve You

Be patient even if you are in a hurry.
Let them know that they’re doing a great job.
Give them a more generous tip than usual.
Give them a smile when they take your order or assist you in any way. Smiles are free, after all.
If you’ve been a regular customer, acknowledge your regular server.
A simple thing you can do for servers is to clean up after yourself if you are dining in at a coffee shop or at a diner. They will really appreciate this.
Write a good review about their place and recommend them to your friends and family.

For the Ones Who Work With You

Acknowledge their value and their work, tell them you appreciate their help.
Offer to help them in some way.
Buy them lunch, especially when you see them working and haven’t had the chance to grab something to eat.
Get to know them better and ask about their lives outside of work.
During stressful situations, be kind and calm.
Gift them little trinkets to give color to their desks.
When they are having a bad day, be there for them and listen to their thoughts. If they need space to figure things out, learn to recognize that.
Little things make a big difference, remember that!

For Yourself

Make a list of things that you like about yourself.
Make a list of your achievements.
Treat yourself once in a while, like going to a salon or a spa.
Thank the people who give you compliments and let them know that you’re proud of it.
Compliment yourself 🙂
Enjoy your passion projects from time to time.
List down all the positive things you did for the day.
Let go of your frustration and learn to forgive yourself.
Go on a date with yourself.

It’s easy to practice gratitude on a daily basis, you just have to be mindful of it. During National Gratitude Month, try to practice daily gratitude. It will not only help yourself, it will also help the people around you. Happy Thanksgiving!

Bathroom Remodel Checklist before a Renovation

November 25, 2018 by Admin Leave a Comment

Home improvement projects, like a bathroom remodeling, can be very exciting. Whether you want to make a few simple changes or drastic ones, there are a couple of important things that you should consider before jumping into this project. Make sure your bathroom renovation runs smoothly with this checklist below.

Budget

One of the first and most important things to consider is your budget. By determining your budget, it will be easier for you to make decisions in the remodel. Once you have figured out how much you can spend, you can budget for labor, fixtures, tiles, etc.

Time

The time required for a remodel may vary depending on the type and size of the project. Just because it is a bathroom remodel, doesn’t mean it won’t take a long time. It depends on how many items you are changing in your bathroom. Even with one bathroom in the house, you need to budget time for planning. Remember,planning will not only define the duration of the project; it will also detail the necessary steps. This includes the purchase of materials, so that they are available when the contractor needs them.

Design and functionality

Another important consideration for a bathroom remodel is the design and style. How do you want your bathroom to look like? When thinking about the design, you must consider the paint color, showers, tiles, faucets, tubs, etc. If you aren’t sure what style to go with, try doing some research for inspiration. Then, put together elements to come up with the final design of the bathroom.

When thinking about design, functionality should also be part of the consideration. Think about who will be using the bathroom and how it will fit in the rest of the house. Also consider an eventual resale of the house.

Measurements

Before doing a bathroom remodel, be sure to take measurements. The overall size of the bathroom matters. You must consider the space that plumbing and fixtures need. Be sure to take accurate measurements to avoid buying stuff that does not fit.

Plumbing

Your renovation will not be complete without plumbing fixtures. Make a checklist for the ones to replace or add such as shower, toilet, bathtub, sink, drains, etc. Is the residential plumbing going to be impacted by your renovation? When adding fixtures, make sure to use pipes that are large enough to prevent clogs.

Walls and flooring

Any waterproof material can be used in bathroom walls and floors. Your choice will depend on your budget, style and how durable you want them to be. For flooring, your options include cement, tiles or vinyl tiles. Choose something that is both slip resistant and durable.

Lighting

Adequate lighting is crucial in a bathroom. Otherwise, it might be downright dangerous. Be sure to plan for lighting adequate to brighten up the room and create an atmosphere. Think about how to maximize natural lighting before adding artificial light fixtures. You may also want to install a dimmer switch so you can adjust the mood in your bathroom.

Cabinets and storage

Planning storage fixtures may not be easy if you have a very limited bathroom space. When adding cabinets, make sure they fit into the available space. They should be functional and accommodate all your stuff while looking stylish.

Doing a bathroom remodel doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Refer to this checklist before starting the renovation to help you achieve your desired results. More importantly, be sure to reach out to a licensed contractor to handle the job. If you need help when it comes to the plumbing aspect of the project, feel free to contact Johnson Plumbing.

Find out How You Can Help Others on World Food Day

October 25, 2018 by Admin Leave a Comment

meal at a restaurant — Celebrate Food day!

World Food Day is observed on the 16th of October each year. This day is celebrated to honor the date when the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations was founded in 1935. It is also recognized to raise awareness about hunger, as well as encourage the public to take action is to help eliminate world hunger.

The World Food Day is celebrated by organizing food drives and distributing free meals for the homeless and less fortunate. If you have the heart to participate in this holiday, here are some of the ways you can take a stand against hunger and make a difference.

Take a photo of your meal and share it on social media

If you think taking photos of your sumptuous meals and uploading them on the social media is meaningless, then you have been thinking wrong. By sharing photos of your meals, you are also literally sharing your food. All you have to do is to download FoodShareFilter or Feedie. Both applications were designed to help fight global hunger. Every time photos of food are shared using the app, the restaurant donates a meal to an organization called the Lunchbox Fund that provides meals for orphaned children in South Africa.

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8 Common Causes of Household Water Leaks

October 22, 2018 by Admin Leave a Comment

Residential water leaks can be considered a nuisance not only because they can waste water, but they can cause damage to your home and promote unwanted organic growth. And because most of the pipework at homes is not always visible, detecting a leak that has formed is not easy. Aside from monitoring your water meter and checking your utility bill, another excellent way to protect your home from future water leaks is your awareness of the common reasons behind them. Read on and learn the top causes that make your pipes drip.

Broken seals

The installation of appliances at home usually involves putting seals around the water connectors. Seals are used in other places such as your dishwasher door. As time goes by, the seal may wear out—especially when the appliances age. Try to check if there are puddles or condensation near the appliance. It might be an indication of a broken seal.

General wear and tear

Wear and tear on a household’s plumbing system is inevitable. They naturally happen over the years. Some examples include damaged pipe joints and pipe corrosion. If you have been living in your home for several years, it would be a good idea to regularly check your plumbing system. Don’t wait for a leak or plumbing issue before you do an inspection.

Clogged lines

Clogged drains are one of the most common sources of inconvenience. Some even lead to an overflow or burst pipes. These things usually happen when there is an obstruction in air handler drain pans or gutters. Prevent serious clogs by keeping your HVAC system and gutters clean.

Corrosion

Like previously mentioned, corrosion is one of the causes of residential water leaks. Rust and other forms of corrosion may eat away the pipes as your plumbing system ages. Take time to check if there is any warping or discoloration on your pipes. And if there is, have a trusted plumber assess the issue immediately. You may also want to consider replacing older pipes with newer models to avoid corrosion.

Damaged pipe joints

The weakest parts of a plumbing system are usually the points where the pipes connect. These pipe joints deteriorate over time, and this may cause leaks. Because most pipe joints are not always easily visible, it would help to pay close attention to your pipes. Observe if there is a ticking or banging noise when you turn the hot water on in your shower. If it produces an unusual sound, it is best to have a reputable plumber check your system.

Intruding tree roots

Some residential water leaks start outside the home. The most common cause is a tree root encroaching upon your water lines. Intrusion can cause moisture to seep out into your yard. Try to notice if there are sinkholes in your yard, some new wet patches, new trees growing near your home, or an unexpected drop in water pressure. These are some of the indications of a tree-root intrusion, but it is always best to have a plumber come over to check.

Excess water pressure

You may be enjoying high water pressure, but uneven or excessive pressure can cause strain to your pipes. Most pipes and faucets are designed to withstand a certain level of water pressure. Too much water pressure may cause leaks. If you are unsure about your water pressure, it is best to reach out to a professional plumber to have it checked.

Loose water connectors

Another possible cause of household leaks is loose water connectors. These can be the hoses and pipes that supply your appliance with water. Most of the time, these connectors become loose due to too much movement or shifting. You would know that you have a water connector leak if there is water running directly from the supply line or if there are puddles forming around or near the appliance.

These are only some of the common causes of household water leaks. To make sure they don’t get any worse, be sure to contact your trusted plumber. And if you find yourself in need of a licensed plumber you can trust, please feel free to contact Johnson Plumbing.

8 Problems that Require Emergency Plumbing Repair

September 27, 2018 by Admin Leave a Comment

DIY repairs for certain household issues every now and then is an excellent option for those who want to save time and money. This is also a great choice if you need to take care of some plumbing issues at home. However, there are certain problems that should not and can not be fixed on your own. That is why it is important that you know what issues require emergency plumbing repair. Read this article to find out when it’s time to call an emergency plumber.

emergency plumbing — A plumber working on an emergency residential plumbing issue

Clogged toilet

Unclogging a toilet is one of the easiest plumbing issues to address. Most of the time, it only requires the use of a plunger. But, a clogged toilet will require the expertise of a professional plumber in cases when a solid material has been flushed in and the water starts overflowing. You should not let this problem take a toll on your personal comfort. In this situation, get the issue addressed by reaching out to a trusted plumber.

Water heater problem

Taking a shower in the morning could be unpleasant if the water heater is not working properly. Water heater problems are usually caused by the buildup of dust and dirt over time. It can spring a leak if it is not properly maintained and if the small issues are ignored. Don’t let the little problems wreak havoc on your water heater. As soon as you identify a problem, call a reputable plumber immediately.

Clogged kitchen drain

A clogged kitchen drain is usually a result of a garbage disposal clog. When washing the dishes, garbage disposals must only include small food scraps and particles. Any bigger pieces should be thrown in the trash. As soon as your kitchen drain gets clogged, be sure to stop using it. Then call an emergency plumber to get your drain up and running again.

Flooding

Aside from being an inconvenience, flooding can cause damage to your belongings and property. It can even pose a threat to your family’s safety. As soon as you notice flooding in your home, be sure to contact a professional plumber immediately so that they can inspect the cause of flooding. Some of the common reasons behind flooding include broken water heaters, burst pipes, backed up plumbing systems and overflowing toilets.

Leaky washing machine hoses

Most washing machines are durable and sturdy. They usually take several years before they require repairs or replacements. However, if there’s one part of this appliance that requires more attention, it would be the water hoses. If you notice a bulging or cracked hose behind the washer, don’t ignore it. Even if they are as small as rust or mold, make sure to get the issue addressed right away by reaching out to a trusted emergency plumber.

Broken water lines

Underground water lines can break for several reasons. These include earthquakes, tree roots, and poorly aimed shovels or backhoe. Once water lines get damaged, they can result in poor water quality and very low water pressure.

Clogged shower drain

Like your clogged toilet and kitchen sink, clogged shower drain problems shouldn’t be ignored. When the water starts rising up to your ankles when taking a shower, or when you hear strange sounds coming from the drain, they are an indication that something needs fixing. More often than not, clogged shower drains are caused by hair buildup and soap scum. But if you’ve already tried addressing the issue to no avail, consider it a plumbing emergency and contact a professional plumber.

Sewer system back-up

Sewer system back-up is one of the most inconvenient plumbing issues that no one wants to experience. Not only are they messy, but they are also costly. Some indications of a sewer system back-up include bad sewage odors, multiple drain clogs, and gurgling toilets. And because no amount of DIY efforts can fix this issue, it is best to reach out to an emergency plumber when you encounter this problem.

As a homeowner, it is always important to know how to spot an emergency plumbing issue so that the problem can be addressed properly and immediately. And if you’re looking for a reputable plumber for all your plumbing needs, you can always reach out to Johnson Plumbing.