Looking for ways to save water and energy in your home, while improving your environmental impact and potentially lowering your utility bills? Here are some things you can do:

Water Conservation:

• Low-flow fixtures: Replacing faucets, showerheads, and toilets with low-flow alternatives can significantly reduce water usage without compromising performance.
• Leak detection and repair: Fixing even small leaks can save gallons of water daily. Green Plumbing Solutions can identify and repair leaks efficiently.
• Water-efficient appliances: Upgrading appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to water-efficient models can make a big difference.
• Graywater systems: These systems capture and reuse wastewater from baths, showers, and sinks for non-potable uses like watering plants or flushing toilets.

Energy Efficiency:

• Tankless water heaters: These on-demand water heaters only heat water when needed, saving energy compared to traditional storage heaters.
• Low-flow showerheads with water-saving features: Some showerheads use advanced technology to deliver a satisfying shower experience while using less water and energy.
• Insulating hot water pipes: This prevents heat loss, reducing the energy needed to maintain hot water temperature.
• Upgrading your HVAC system: Modern, energy-efficient HVAC systems can significantly reduce your home's energy consumption. ​

While not all of these ideas may be doable for you and your situation, even changing up one thing can help. Not only can you save money on your water and energy bills, but you can help save energy too.

Choosing the right plumbing fixtures and upgrades for your bathroom remodel can be overwhelming, but it's an exciting step towards creating your dream bathroom. Here are some key factors to consider to ensure you make the best decisions:
​Function and Needs:

• Start with functionality: Analyze your daily routines and consider who will be using the bathroom. Do you need multiple sinks or a larger shower? Prioritize features that enhance everyday usage.
• Accessibility needs: If you have accessibility requirements, choose fixtures like grab bars, walk-in showers, and easy-to-reach controls.
• Water conservation: Consider water-efficient fixtures like low-flow toilets and faucets to save water and reduce your impact on the environment. 

Style and Aesthetics:

• Match your overall design: Choose fixtures that complement your chosen bathroom style, whether it's modern, traditional, farmhouse, or minimalist.
• Cohesive look: Ensure faucets, handles, and finishes (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black) harmonize for a unified aesthetic.
• Think long-term: opt for timeless designs that won't feel outdated quickly.

Budget and Material:

• Set a realistic budget: Factor in the cost of fixtures, installation, and potential plumbing adjustments.
• Material matters: Consider durability, maintenance, and budget when choosing materials like brass, stainless steel, or acrylic.
• Quality over quantity: Invest in higher-quality fixtures that last longer and perform better, even if it means sacrificing quantity.

Additional Tips:

• Research brands and compare features: Look for reputable brands with good warranties and read online reviews.
• Get professional advice: Consult a plumber or designer for recommendations based on your specific needs and space.
• Consider future needs: Think about potential changes in your household and choose adaptable fixtures when possible.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match: Combine different styles or finishes for a unique and personalized look.

Remember, the perfect bathroom fixtures are those that blend functionality, aesthetics, and budget seamlessly. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process of creating your dream bathroom.  No matter how big your bathroom or kitchen remodel project is, we can help. From new sinks, tubs, to toilets and showers, we've got you covered.

The New Year is here! What better way to ring in the new year than with a smoothly functioning plumbing system? Here are some tips to help you tackle those pesky plumbing issues and ensure your pipes are happy and healthy in the new year:

Resolution #1: Tackle those lingering leaks:

• Drip, drip, drip – don't let those annoying leaks steal your peace of mind. Start the year by addressing any leaks under sinks, faucets, or toilets. Early intervention saves you money and prevents further damage.
• If you're handy, consider DIYing minor leaks with appropriate tools and materials. For larger leaks or complex repairs, call a professional plumber for a worry-free fix. We know of a good one in the Woodbury area. :) 

Resolution #2: Declutter your drains:

• Give your drains a fresh start by clearing them of hair, food scraps, and other debris that can clog them over time. Invest in a drain snake or try natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar to break down and flush away buildup.
• Don't pour grease or oils down the drain – they solidify and cause major blockages. Dispose of them properly in the trash or compost bin.

Resolution #3: Upgrade your showerhead and faucet aerators:

• Replace your old, inefficient showerhead and faucet aerators with water-saving models. This simple switch can significantly reduce your water consumption and utility bills.
• Choose aerators with a high GPM (gallons per minute) rating for a satisfying shower experience while still saving water. Need help? We're here for you!

Resolution #4: Give your water heater some TLC:

• Drain and flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup that can reduce its efficiency and lifespan.
• Check for any leaks or signs of corrosion and address them promptly. Consider installing a water heater jacket to improve insulation and energy efficiency. If you do find an issue, we're happy to help. 

Resolution #5: Schedule a plumbing inspection:

• Prevent plumbing problems before they arise by scheduling a professional inspection. A plumber can identify potential issues, recommend preventative measures, and ensure your system is in tip-top shape for the year ahead. Give us a call! 

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By following these simple tips, you can ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly throughout the new year. Remember, taking care of your pipes today saves you time, money, and stress in the long run. So, raise a glass (of water, of course!) to a fresh start and happy plumbing in the new year!

Winter's icy grip can wreak havoc on your plumbing system in the Twin Cities, leading to frozen pipes, burst lines, and costly repairs. With a little preparation and some proactive steps, you can keep your pipes happy and your home warm throughout the season. Here are some essential winter plumbing tips to prevent frozen pipes and keep the water flowing:

Insulate Exposed Pipes:

• Identify exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, basements, attics, and exterior walls. Wrap them with foam insulation sleeves or pipe covers to prevent heat loss and potential freezing.
• Don't forget to insulate vulnerable areas around shut-off valves, hose bibs, and exposed plumbing fixtures.

Seal Air Leaks:

• Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings where cold air can enter and chill your pipes. Use caulk or weather stripping to block drafts and keep the warmth inside.
• Consider installing draft stoppers or closing unused fireplaces to prevent cold air from circulating around your plumbing.

Let Your Faucets Drip:

• In extreme cold, open a faucet slightly (a trickle is enough) with pipes exposed to freezing temperatures. This allows water to keep moving, reducing the risk of ice formation.
• Remember to close the faucet once the temperatures rise to prevent unnecessary water waste.

Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses:

• Disconnect and drain hoses from your spigots before the first frost. Store them in a warm, protected area to prevent freezing and potential damage.
• Turn off and drain the shut-off valve for your outdoor hose bib to prevent water from backing up and freezing inside the pipe.

Keep Your Thermostat Above Freezing:

• Maintain a consistent temperature above freezing (ideally around 50°F) in your home, even when you're away. This will prevent pipes in vulnerable areas from freezing.
• Consider setting a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature during the day and night, ensuring constant heating for your pipes.

Know Your Main Water Valve:

• Locate and familiarize yourself with the main water valve that shuts off water supply to your entire house. This will be crucial in case of a pipe burst.
• Make sure the valve is easily accessible and not covered by furniture or clutter.

Be Proactive with Inspections:

• Regularly check exposed pipes for any signs of leaks, cracks, or bulging. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening in cold weather.
• If you suspect a pipe might be frozen, try to thaw it with warm towels or a hairdryer applied directly to the pipe. Avoid using open flames or direct heat sources, as this can damage the pipe.

Bonus Tip: Consider installing a freeze alarm on vulnerable pipes to alert you if the temperature drops to a dangerous level.

By following these winter plumbing tips, you can minimize the risk of frozen pipes and ensure your home's plumbing system operates smoothly throughout the cold season. Remember, prevention is key! By taking proactive steps, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy a worry-free winter. We’re always here to help!

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. But they can also be a time for clutter and chaos. After all the presents have been opened, the feasts have been eaten, and the guests have gone home, you're left with a house that needs some serious TLC.
Don't fret! With a little planning and effort, you can get your home back in order in no time. Here's a step-by-step guide to holiday clean up:
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1. Assess the damage
The first step is to take a look around your home and assess the damage. What needs to be cleaned, organized, or decluttered? Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done, and prioritize them based on importance.

2. Start with the big stuff
Once you have your list, start with the big stuff. This includes things like taking down decorations, putting away wrapping paper and gift bags, and cleaning up any spills or messes.

3. Declutter and donate
The holidays are a great time to declutter your home. Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer use, need, or love. You can donate these items to charity, sell them online, or give them away to friends and family.

4. Clean and organize
Once you've decluttered, it's time to clean and organize. This includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and putting away any stray belongings. Take some time to deep clean areas that may have been neglected during the holiday rush, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

5. Don't forget the outside
Your holiday clean up shouldn't just be limited to the inside of your home. Take some time to tidy up your outdoor spaces as well. This includes things like raking leaves, putting away patio furniture, and cleaning up any holiday decorations that may have been left outside.

6. Reward yourself
Once you've completed your holiday clean up, take some time to relax and reward yourself. You've earned it!

Wondering what you should really tackle while the weather is still in nice in the Twin Cities... you know before we get snow? ​Here are some things to consider to help keep your plumbing working great this season: 

• Clean your gutters. Fallen leaves and debris can clog your gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage to your roof and foundation. Be sure to clean your gutters regularly, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing color.
• Check your outdoor faucets. Turn off your outdoor faucets and disconnect any hoses before the first frost. You may also want to cover your outdoor faucets with insulated faucet covers to protect them from the cold weather.
• Insulate your pipes. If you have any pipes that are exposed to the cold weather, be sure to insulate them to prevent freezing. This is especially important for pipes that are located in crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
• Drain and flush your water heater. Draining and flushing your water heater once a year will help to remove sediment buildup and improve its efficiency.
• Check your sump pump. Make sure your sump pump is working properly and that it is free of debris. You may also want to test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit.

​Here are some additional tips:

• Inspect your sewer line. Roots from trees and shrubs can grow into your sewer line and cause blockages. Be sure to inspect your sewer line regularly and have it professionally cleaned if necessary.
• Seal any leaks. Leaks can waste water and money, so be sure to seal any leaks in your plumbing fixtures as soon as possible.
• Have your plumbing system inspected. It is a good idea to have your plumbing system inspected by a professional plumber once a year. This will help to identify any potential problems before they cause damage.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your plumbing system in good condition and prevent costly repairs.

Your home's plumbing system is one of the most important systems in your home, but it can often be overlooked until something goes wrong. It’s important to have a basic understanding of how your plumbing system works and how to maintain it, so you know the proper steps to take.
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In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about your home's plumbing system (and maybe stuff you didn’t want to know). We will cover how it works to common problems and how to fix them. For tips on how to fix plumbing issues, you can see the other topics in our blog.

Let’s talk about how your home's plumbing system works:

The plumbing system in your home is made up of a network of pipes and fixtures that deliver water to faucets, showers, toilets, and other appliances. The water then flows through the sewer lines and out of your home. Simple right?
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The plumbing system is divided into two main parts: the water supply system and the drainage system.

The water supply system
The water supply system delivers clean water to your home from the main water line. The water enters your home through the main shut-off valve, which is typically located near the front of your house.
The water then flows through a series of pipes to the various fixtures in your home. The pressure of the water is controlled by the water pressure regulator, which is also typically located near the main shut-off valve.

The drainage system
The drainage system removes wastewater from your home and sends it to the sewer line. The wastewater flows through a series of pipes to the main drain line, which then exits your home and flows to the sewer line.

The drainage system is equipped with traps, which prevent sewer gases from entering your home. Traps are also designed to catch debris, such as hair and soap scum, before it enters the sewer line.

How can you maintain your home's plumbing system?

• Clean your drains regularly: You can use a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of vinegar and baking soda to clean your drains.
• Inspect your faucets and pipes for leaks: Fix any leaks to prevent water damage. Not sure how? We’ve got you!
• Have your water heater serviced regularly: A plumber can flush your water heater and check for any problems.
• Hire a good plumber to help!

If you have any questions or need help with a plumbing emergency, we’re always here to help! 

It's hard to believe that it August is already here and we're preparing the kids to go back to school. Where does the time go?

If back to school is a time of chaos for you and your family, here are a few tips that may help!

• Get organized. This is a great time to go through your child's belongings and get rid of anything they don't need or use anymore. This will help them to declutter and make it easier to find what they need when they need it.
• Set up a homework station. This could be a desk in their bedroom, a table in the living room, or even a corner of the kitchen. Make sure the space is well-lit and comfortable, and that they have everything they need to do their homework, such as pencils, paper, a calculator, and a dictionary.
• Create a routine. This will help your child to get into a good routine and make it easier for them to transition back to school. The routine could include things like waking up at the same time each day, eating breakfast, getting dressed, and packing their backpack.
• Make sure they get enough sleep. Most children need around 10-12 hours of sleep per night. Make sure they go to bed early enough so that they get enough sleep before school.
• Eat a healthy breakfast. A healthy breakfast will give your child the energy they need to start their day off right. Make sure they have something to eat before they leave for school, such as cereal, toast, or yogurt.
• Pack a healthy lunch. A healthy lunch will help your child to stay focused and energized throughout the day. Pack them a lunch that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Encourage them to get exercise. Exercise is important for children's physical and mental health. Encourage them to get at least 60 minutes of exercise per day.
• Be supportive. Back to school can be a time of transition for children. Be there to support them and help them to adjust to their new schedule.

We hope these tips help you prepare your home for back to school! We'd also love to hear your back to school tips.

Everyone loves a helpful hack to make lives a little simpler, right? We've put together this fun list of things you may not have thought of to save you time, energy, and money:

• Use a pencil to clean your grout. Dip the pencil eraser in baking soda and scrub it into the grout. This little tip will help to remove dirt and grime and make your grout new again.
• Use a dryer sheet to remove static cling. Rub a dryer sheet on your clothes before you put them away. This will help to remove static cling and prevent your clothes from sticking together.
• We know it sounds weird but cut a toilet paper roll in half and use it to clean your blinds. This will help to remove dust and dirt and make your blinds look new again.
• Clean your oven with a sponge.  Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the oven and let it sit for 30 minutes. Wipe it away with a sponge to help to remove tough grease and grime.
• Use a coffee filter to clean your coffee maker. After you brew a pot of coffee, place a coffee filter in the carafe and pour the coffee back into the coffee maker. This will help to catch any grounds that are left behind. After, you can rinse the carafe and coffee maker with water.
• Clean your drains with lemon. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the drain. Add a cup of baking soda and let it sit for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This will help to remove any clogs and freshen up your drains.
• Use vinegar and water to clean your windows. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the windows and wipe it away with a clean cloth. This will help to remove any dirt, grime, or fingerprints.
• Clean your countertops with a baking soda and water paste. Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the countertops and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, wipe it away with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dirt, grime, or food particles.
• Use a duster to remove dust from your furniture. A duster is a great way to remove dust from your furniture without having to use any chemicals. Simply dust your furniture with the duster and you're done.

These are just a few of the many home hacks that can help you save time, money, and energy. What are some of your favorite home hacks?

​Are you moving this summer? Moving can be stressful and overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips to help you make your move as smooth as possible:

1. The more you plan, the less stressful your move can be. You can start by creating a moving timeline and a checklist to help keep you on track and help remember the important things that need to be done.  
2. Before you start packing, take some time to declutter your belongings to get organized. Get rid of anything that you don't use or need. This will make packing and unpacking much easier.
3. Don't wait until the last minute to start packing! Start packing a few weeks before your move to give yourself plenty of time and avoid feeling rushed.
4. Label your boxes clearly with the room that each box belongs in can make it easier to unpack when you arrive at your new home. You can also include a list in the box of what is inside to help, depending on what kind of time you need.
5. Take pictures of your belongings to help you keep track of your items. This makes it easier to find anything that you might misplace during the move.
6. If it’s in your moving budget, hiring professional movers is a great way to make moving easier. Professional movers have the experience and expertise to pack and transport your belongings safely and efficiently, so you don’t have to worry.
7. If hiring professionals isn’t in your budget, consider asking friends and family for help! They can help you pack, load, and unload the moving truck.
8. Take pictures of your belongings. This will help you keep track of your belongings and make it easier to find anything that you might misplace during the move.
9. Moving is a big undertaking, that’s why it’s important to be patient with yourself and others during the process. There will be unexpected delays and challenges. Just take things one step at a time and don't get discouraged.

These are just a few tips to help make your life a little easier! We’re always here to look at your plumbing needs once you get situated in the new home!