Archive for April, 2009

According to a recent report from the American Federations of Labor, many building and construction unions are working hard to educate their members on the best ways to utilize efficient materials, new skills, and green technologies in order to prepare them for green jobs of the future.

The Plumber and Pipe Fitters of the United Association of Journeymen have already begun their concentration on going green by identifying and educating members on various technologies that could prove to be the future of plumbing. Such technologies use less energy and natural resources than traditional technologies, have minimal impact on the environment and use materials that can be reused or recycled. Even some of these innovations have already been implemented in commercial and residential sites as part of the program.

Additionally, the group has also a founding member of the Green Mechanical Council, an alliance of manufacturers, skilled professionals, universities and other organizations dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly equipment and processes that maximize energy efficiency, conserve water and use renewable and sustainable fuel sources. The council (called “GreenMech”) conducts education and training activities for professionals and apprentices working within various industries, including plumbing and home energy.

To all plumbers and contractors out there: what green technologies have you implemented in your recent projects? How do you think green technologies will impact the future of plumbing and construction?

Is your water bill looking a little high? By monitoring your water usage habits and by making a few changes to your lifestyle, you can hope to save a bundle on your next month’s utility bill. Conserving water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the cost of your water while giving back to the environment, and oftentimes, the changes are simple and inexpensive.

According to the American Water Works Association, installing water efficient toilets can save up to 8,800 gallons in your home each year. Not to mention, eliminating leaks can eliminate 5,500 gallons and using low flow shower heads can save 2,500 gallons. Add on a more efficient washing machine with 5,000 gallons of savings and you’ve got a grand total of more than 22,000 gallons of water saved each year. That’s more than the total per capita water use in Idaho on a given day or enough water to meet the daily needs of 150 households. Amazing isn’t it?

To save on your water usage and to get your home running more efficiently, consider updating your plumbing and fixing leaks with the plumbing supplies from SimplyPlumbing.com. Our selection of pipes, parts, and other essentials are the perfect fit for your home. When combined with smart water use, updating your plumbing could be the key you need to save on your utility bills for years to come.

When it comes down to getting your pipes, fittings, fixtures, faucets, and sinks shimmering, look no further than Flitz to get the job done. These powerful yet environmentally safe cleaners and polishes are designed to deliver superior cleaning power without damaging the integrity of your plumbing, fixtures, or surfaces. Since the company’s formation in 1977, Flitz Cleaners has emerged as one of the nation’s leading providers of professional cleaning products for your household surfaces.

To clean up and protect your brushed stainless steel, chrome, enamel and porcelain surfaces, use Flitz Cleaner & Degreaser. This effective formula delivers unparalleled grease fighting power and surface protection for beautiful kitchens and bathrooms.

Put the finishing touches on your metal fixtures, faucets, and appliances with Flitz Liquid Metal Polish. This liquid paste version of the traditional cleaner is perfect for adding shine and sparkle to your metal surfaces in a powerful, easy to apply formula.

Get your Flitz cleaners today from SimplyPlumbing.com.

Springtime is both a celebrated and demanding time of year. While the weather becomes nicer and the grass grows greener, many homes are put at risk for frequent flooding and water damage as the result of the springtime thaw. Not to mention, many of the springtime months can tend to be rainy, muddy, and messy for many homeowners.

To ensure that your home is ready to face spring, be sure to check your basement, crawl spaces, outdoor plumbing areas, and other areas of piping for any leaks, cracks, or potential dangers that could cause flooding in your home. Also, take a look at the foundation of your home to ensure that there’s no place for water to seep in and cause damage or molding to occur. Update and maintain clear, functioning floor drains or other such areas as to ensure that any flooding can be controlled. You can also think about installing water sensors in areas prone to flooding to alert you when water starts seeping in.

SimplyPlumbing.com has all of the springtime plumbing preparation materials you’ll need to update your pipes, valves, drains, and otherwise, keep your home safe from springtime flooding.