Beat the Winter Blues with These Bathroom Fixes

Suffering from the winter blues?  

Cold temperatures and short days leave us spending more time indoors during the winter months.  Fortunately, there are ways to beat the winter blues and brighten up your space - even on cold, dark days.  

Here are a few simple ways to update your bathroom this winter.

Winter Bathroom Remodeling Ideas:

• Upgrade to Shower Doors - Now that the days are shorter, bathroom lighting can be hard to come by.  Adding shower glass doors to your bathroom can brighten up your space.  Unlike shower curtains, glass allows light to pass through your space, making it appear bigger and brighter. 
• Add Additional Lighting - Does your bathroom seem dim?  Adding more lighting options can help make getting ready on a dark winter morning a little bit easier.  
• Add New Fixtures - New faucet and shower head fixtures can make your bathroom feel new again.  
• Add a Vanity Mirror - Mirrors naturally reflect light and make your bathroom space appear larger than it is.  They're a great way to add light to a dark space.

If you're bathroom tub is in need of a serious upgrade - don't forget to enter our ugliest tub contest!  Click here for complete rules.

You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Plumbing FAQs

Have a question about your plumbing system?  You're not alone.  Take a look at a few of the most frequently asked plumbing questions.

Plumbing FAQs:

What Causes Clogged Drains?
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems that homeowners face.  Most bathroom clogs are due to hair and soap clogging the drain pipes.  When this accumulates over time, it can keep the water from going down the drain.  Kitchen sinks are often clogged by oil and grease.  If you want to prevent these clogs, try to scrape food dishes before washing them in the sink.  Even small amounts of oil can clog your drain over time!

How Do I Turn Off Water to My House?
All of the water in your home is connected to your main water shut off valve.  It is likely that you will find this valve in your basement or crawl space below your house.

Why Should You Drain Your Water Heater?
Your water heater is an often overlooked part of your home, so how often do you need to perform maintenance on it?  You should drain your water heater once a year to improve the overall energy efficiency of your system.  Read more about when to drain your water heater here.

Why Should I Stay Away From Liquid Drain Cleaners?
Slow draining sinks can be frustrating, but liquid drain cleaners can damage your plumbing.  You should always give a professional plumber a call before purchasing a liquid drain cleaner.  Read more about why here.

How Can I Remodel On a Budget?
Bathroom and kitchen remodeling doesn't have to break the bank.  By updating your fixtures, keeping your plumbing in the same locations, and choosing decorations wisely, you can significantly reduce the cost of your remodel.  Read more about how to remodel on a budget here and give us a call for a consultation.  We'll always give you an estimate in writing for you to approve before we begin any work!

If you run into any of these common plumbing problems - or you don't see your plumbing problem above, give us a call!  Our technicians are here around the clock to help you with all of your plumbing needs.  

You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes

Are you recovering from yesterday's heavy snow fall?

Although the snow may have stopped falling, it's still important to protect our homes from the cold winter temperatures.  As the temperature drops, the water in your pipes can freeze.  Since water expands, this can cause your pipes to break.

These tips will help you avoid frozen pipes and keep hot water running through your home tonight.

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes:

• Keep Your Garage Closed - Keep your garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in your garage.  If your garage isn't heated, it's important to keep your garage as warm as you can.
• Open Cabinet Doors - On cold nights, allow air to circulate around the plumbing under your kitchen and bathroom sinks.  Remember to keep any harmful cleaners or chemicals out-of-reach first if you have small children.
• Don't Turn Down Your Thermostat - By temporarily suspending your heat during the night, you'll save on your heating bills, but you can also end up with a costly pipe repair job is your plumbing freezes and bursts.
• Keep the Heat On While Away - If you're planning a weekend getaway from the snow, leave your heat on.  Set your temperature no lower than 55 degrees so that your plumbing doesn't freeze.

Remember to drive safely and take it easy when shoveling yourself out of the house.  Remember to contact our office if you run into any plumbing problems today.  You can call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Valentine's Day Gifts for the Bathroom

Your bathroom is one of the most over used and under appreciated rooms in the house.  This Valentine's Day, show your bathroom a little extra love!  Here are a few ways to spruce up your space and get into the Valentine's Day mood.

Valentine's Day Gifts:

• New Towels - Fluffy new bath towels are a great way to make your bathroom a little bit more warm and cozy.  You can even get something pink, red, or white to celebrate the holiday of love,.
• Scented Candles - There are so many different types of scented candles.  Choose your favorites and add a warm glow (and nice scent) to your bathroom.
• Potpourri - If you have small children in your home and you don't want to leave a lit candle out in the open, opt for some potpourri instead.  This is a great way to make your bathroom smell nice without an open flame.
• Updated Fixtures - Updating your bathroom's shower head and faucet handles can go a long way towards making your bathroom look brand new.  These upgrades will help 

If your bathroom truly needs some love this Valentine's Day, enter our ugliest tub contest!  You can also contact our office directly to learn more about the bathroom remodeling services that we offer to Rochester and the surrounding areas.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Great Books for Read In The Bathtub Day

Having a rough start to your week?  There's no better way to unwind at the end of a long day than with a  good book and a relaxing bubble bath!  

Today is National Read in the Bathtub Day!  

Whether you're an avid reader or you're newly picking up the hobby, here are a few must-reads to add to your 2016 reading list.

Bathtub Reading Inspiration:

The Great Gatsby
More than a Leonardo DiCaprio movie, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a tragic and heartbreaking story that has become one of the most quintessentially American novels.  It is a classic novel that tells the story of a young millionaire, growing up during the Roaring Twenties.

Are You There God?  It's Me, Margaret
This groundbreaking young adult novel by Judy Blume deals with the honest questions so many pre-teens wonder about.  Margaret asks God some questions to which there are no easy answers.  The book talks frankly about these issues, without being condescending.

Harry Potter
If you haven't read the Harry Potter series, there is no better time to start.  The books are perfect for adults and children of all ages - and you can really get lost in the story.  Just remember to keep an eye on the time (you don't want your fingers to get pruney)!

Divergent
The first in the series, Divergent is a story about a a society divided into factions.  Each of the factions uphold a specific virtue.  When you turn 16, you need to choose what faction you belong in.  For Beatrice, the decision lies between staying with her family or being in the faction she truly feels she belongs in.  Don't forget to check out the movies after you're done, too!

Fahrenheit 451
In this dystopian novel, books are forbidden.  It's Guy Montag's job to destroy all of the books and track down those who disobey.  Ray Bradbury's novel addresses themes of technology and a post-literate future.

The Kite Runner
This heartbreaking story tells the tale of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and a servant.  The novel addresses family, love and friendship in Afghanistan over the last thirty years.

If your bathtub isn't up to par for a relaxing bubble bath read, enter our ugliest tub contest!  You can also contact our office directly to learn more about the bathroom remodeling services that we offer to Rochester and the surrounding areas.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Tips for Your Super Bowl Sunday Party

Will you be hosting a Super Bowl party tomorrow?  As you get ready to watch the Carolina Panthers take on the Denver Broncos, keep these party tips in mind!

Super Bowl Party Tips:

Don't forget to plan ahead.  How many people will you be having over for the super bowl?  Take some time to plan ahead so that you have enough food and drinks for your guests!

Make it a pot luck.  Don't be afraid to ask your guests to help out with the party planning.  If everyone brings a snack, you'll all be ready for the game -- and it'll be easier on you!

Decorate the room.  Get creative with your decorations.  Before you go out and buy super bowl themed decor, see if you have anything lying around the house that you can reuse in your decorations.

Keep greasy foods out of your sink.  We know that you want to get your super bowl cleanup over with quickly, but be careful where you put greasy dishes.  Try to wipe off any buffalo wing grease - greasy foods can clog your drain and bones can damage your garbage disposal!

If you run into any plumbing problems during your super bowl party, we're here to help!  Contact our office by calling 585-216-3058 to reach our technicians for emergency plumbing services.

Learn more about plumbing and remodeling services on our website.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Enter Our "Ugliest Tub" Contest!

Do you have the ugliest tub in the Rochester area?  

Prove it!

Send us photos of your ugly tub for a chance to win a new, Sterling Accord Smooth bath/shower, Moen single handle posi-temp pressure balanced tub and shower trim with shower head AND a Moen shower rod.  

We are accepting entries now through February 29th!  Send us your photos and email address for a chance to win!

See Below for Contest Rules:

The winning entry will receive agrees to allow AP Plumbing to use images an likenesses of the old and new unit, the homeowner’s name and photo in promotional materials

Entrants must own the home entered in the contest and reside within Monroe CountyEntries must be received by February 29, 2016No entry fee or purchase is required

(Contest not open to mobile or manufactured homes)

Submit your email address so that we can contact you, if you are chosen as the winner. 

Winning entry will receive the following: 

(1) Sterling Accord Smooth bath/shower (Model #-71240120/10) 

(1) Moen Single Handle Posi-Temp Pressure Balanced Tub and Shower Trim with Showerhead, w/ chrome finish 

(1) Moen 5 ft. Fixed Curved Shower Rod in Chrome

Prize is non-transferable and may not be redeemed for cash. If customer opts to upgrade, applicable charges will be quoted upon selection.

AP Plumbing will cover basic installation costs.

Any permits, or improvements needed to bring installation in compliance with existing building and mechanical codes will be the homeowner’s responsibility. Including mold remediation, or floor replacement if applicable.

Employees of AP Plumbing employees and their family members are not eligible.

Visit our Facebook page to enter for a chance to win!

How Sump Pumps Protect Your Home From Melting Winter Snow

Has the rain washed away all of the snow that winter storm Jonas brought to your home?

While we can’t wait for the snow to disappear, unfortunately melting snow also puts homeowners at risk of localized flooding - especially those that live below the water table.

Between the melting snow and the heavy rains that hit Rochester this week, it’s important to take the time to protect your home.  

Fortunately, you can prevent home flooding, protect your basement, and keep your belongings dry with sump pump protection.  

Sump pumps help prevent flooding by removing water that has accumulated in a sump basin.  The sump pump disperses the water away from your home, keeping your basement dry and your personal belongings safe.  

We offer sump pump services at AP Plumbing that help protect your home through the melting winter snow and well into the spring rains.

Sump Pump services include:

• Fast sump pump installations & repairs
• Backup Options
• Submersible Sump Pumps & Water Backup Systems
• Electric & Pressure Systems

Are you looking to protect your home from flooding this year?  Contact our office by calling 585-216-3058.  Our professionals will help provide you with information on our sump pump services, as well as send a technician to your home to assess your sump pump needs.

Learn more about plumbing and remodeling services on our website.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Keep Your Water Heating Bill Low

Utility bills can add up at the end of the month.  Fortunately, with a few simple changes to your home routines and fixtures, you can save money on your water heating bill.

Here are a few tips to help you save next month!

How to Save:

• Make the Upgrade - New water heaters are more energy-efficient than older models.  If your water heater is over 10 years old, you should upgrade to a newer, more efficient appliance.  This is a great way to accumulate long-term savings.
• Take Showers -While baths can be relaxing, showers are more energy-efficient.  Even when a bath is filled with only a few inches of water, it is still less efficient than a short shower.
• Fix Leaky Faucets - Leaky faucets and pipes can add up.  A leak of one drip per second can cost $1 per month, according to the Department of Energy. Although this may not seem like much, this cost can add up over time.
• Install Low-Flow Fixtures - New shower heads and faucets flow and lower rates, saving you money.  As an added bonus, a new fixture can give your bathroom an updated look and feel.

If you have any questions about your home water heater or you are due for an upgrade, contact our office.  The experienced technicians at AP Plumbing are here for all of your home water heater needs!

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

5 Plumbing Upgrades to Make This Winter

Cold winter weather is the perfect excuse for focusing on indoor home improvement projects.  This weekend, you might want to consider making a few updates to your home plumbing system!  

Here are a few plumbing upgrades you should make this winter.

5 Plumbing Upgrades:

1. Tankless Water Heaters - If your water heater is over 10 years old, it's likely that you'll be due for a replacement soon.  Older water heaters tend to break down more frequently and work less efficiently.  The benefit of choosing a tankless water heater for your upgrade is that they take up less space!  This will leave you with more room in your basement - and often a lower utility bill.  Tankless water heaters heat water as it is needed.  This means that you won't waste money keeping unused water warm.
2. Efficient Shower Heads - An easy way to improve the functionality of your bathroom and give it a new look and feel is by updating your shower head.  Newer shower head models are more efficient, and come with spa-like settings that can make your bathroom more luxurious!
3. Upgrade Your Faucet Fixtures - Want to give your bathroom a new look for less?  Update your faucet fixtures!  This simple fix can really give your space an updated and modern feel.
4. Update Your Bathtub - An old bathtub can be an eyesore.  Updating your bathtub or upgrading a walk-in shower can be the perfect solution for your bathroom.  It's also perfect for older couples who are looking to age-in-place!
5. Opt for a Full Remodel - If your bathroom is in need of an overhaul, it might be time for a full bathroom remodel.  We offer bathroom remodeling services that will help you with everything from plumbing installations to design.

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Insulate Your Plumbing Pipes

When water freezes - it expands.

This means that on cold days like today, your plumbing pipes are at risk!  Frozen pipes can expand and burst, leading to a messy cleanup for Rochester homeowners.  Not only will you need to replace your cracked pipes, you might also be left with a flooding mess.  Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this!

By insulating exposed pipes in your home (in your basement, attic, and under your cabinets), you can help create a barrier between your plumbing pipes and the cold winter air.

How to Insulate Your Plumbing:

1. Protect your plumbing with foam-rubber pipe insulation.  Slip the foam-rubber insulation over your exposed pipes.
2. Peel away any backing strips and press the adhesive surfaces together to insulate your pipes.
3. Cut the foam rubber insulation to size at the corner joints and secure with foam tape.
4. Insulate the areas around your plumbing. Seal any air leaks, holes and cracks around the home with caulking or weatherstripping.

If your run into any problems with your home plumbing this winter or you're not sure how to insulate your pipes through the DIY route, contact our office.  Our plumbing technicians can help make sure that your plumbing system is protected all winter long.

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Prevent Plumbing Problems This Winter

It's cold outside.  As you put on a few extra layers to keep yourself warm, it's important to make sure that your plumbing is protected too.  Even inside your home, exposed pipes can freeze on cold nights.  Here are a few tips to help protect your home plumbing this winter.

Winter Plumbing Tips:

• Insulate Your Pipes - Look around your home for any exposed pipes.  They might be in your basement, attic, crawlspaces, or hidden under your kitchen or bathroom cabinets.  Insulating these pipes will help prevent them from freezing on cold winter nights.
• Keep Your Heat Turned On - Although it might be tempting to turn your heat down when you leave your home for the day or for a winter getaway, you'll still want to keep your home at a reasonable temperature.  If the temperature drops below freezing on a cold day while you're away, a pipe could freeze and burst, leaving you with a flooding mess when you return.
• Open Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinets - On particularly cold days, it's a good idea to leave your kitchen and bathroom cabinets open.  This allows warm air to circulate through the cabinets and keep your plumbing from freezing.

If you have any problems with your home plumbing system this winter, give our office a call.  We offer emergency plumbing services that will help fix your burst pipe!  

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

How to Keep Your Bathroom Clean and Organized for the New Year

Everyone wants to start the year off with a clean slate - why not start (and end) each day off fresh too?  With a clean and organized bathroom, you can ease into your day without the chaos of looking for a lost hairbrush.  Here are a few tips to help you keep your bathroom organized and clean in 2016.

Bathroom Tips:

• Go Through Your Medicine Cabinet - When was the last time you really went through your medicine cabinet?  It's time to get rid of outdated medicines and keep your medicine cabinet clean and organized with products that are useful to you in the new year.
• Keep Hair Products Under Control - Hair products can take up a lot of space int he bathroom.  Keep your styling routine organized by storing all of your products in a plastic tub under the sink.  If you haven't used a product recently, it might be time to toss it!
• Squeegee Often - After a long shower, water will sit on your shower curtain or shower glass doors.  This can lead to mold, mildew and hard water stains.  Stay on top of your cleaning routine by simply using a squeegee to wipe down your shower after each use.  This will help keep your bathroom clean and cut down on cleaning time when you do your bathroom cleaning each week.
• Clean Your Grout - Grout is porous and can absorb oils from any products you use in the bathtub.  This includes shampoos, conditioners, and soaps.  Keep your shower tiles clean by cleaning the grout with a mixture of 10 parts water to 1 part bleach.  Just be sure to remove the bleach solution after you're done cleaning
• Set a Schedule - Put a plan in place for 2016.  Once a month (or every other month) you should give your bathroom a thorough clean.  Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar to help keep your pipes clear of grease, oil and hair.

Check out this Martha Stewart article for more information on how to clean your bathroom.  If you're looking to really give your bathroom and overhaul this year with a remodel, give our office a call.  Our professionals will help you decide on the right bathroom design for your home needs.   Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Plumbing Efficiency Tips for 'Cut Your Energy Costs Day'

It's National Cut Your Energy Costs Day!  What better way to start the year than with lower energy use and in turn, a lower monthly utility bill?  These tips will help you keep energy costs low, while improving your home plumbing system.

Plumbing Efficiency Tips:

• Fix Leaky Faucets - A dripping faucet is more than a common household annoyance, it can also be wasting water in your home.  Save money and water by fixing these leaky faucets early on.  If left alone, faucet leaks can also lead to excessive wear and tear on your faucet and your sink.  Keep your plumbing fixtures longer by fixing small problems early on!
• Install a Low-Flow Shower Head - Higher efficiency shower heads use less water per minute.  While you'll still enjoy a comfortable shower pressure and flow, you can also save on yur monthly energy bills by reducing demand on your water heater.
• Go Tankless - Tankless water heaters heat water when you need it.  This means that you aren't wasting energy storing hot water in your basement.  Instead, water is heated as it is needed.
• Perform Water Heater Maintenance - If you have a standard water heater in your home, make sure that your water heater is in good condition and is heating water efficiently.  If your system is outdated or is not working efficiently, you could be wasting energy.

If you have any questions about your home plumbing system, give our offices a call!  Our plumbing technicians are here to help you with any plumbing problems you may have.  Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!

Celebrate National Bubble Bath Day!

It's National Bubble Bath Day!  

Now that it's finally cold out, a nice, warm bubble bath is the perfect way to relax at the end of a long work week.  Here are a few ways to make your next bath a little bit more spa-like.

Play your favorite music. Listening to your favorite artist, radio station or song can be a great way to relax.  Add some tunes to your bath to make your bubble bath even more relaxing.  Of course, be sure to keep all electrical devices away from the tub.

Read a book.  If you have the time, sit down and read a book while you soak in the bubble bath.  Just try not to get it wet!

Add essential oils.  Lavender, eucalyptus and rose oil are known for their relaxing scents.  Add a few drops to your bath to make your bathroom smell great!

Use a bath pillow.  Inflatable bath pillows or pillows mad from soft fabric can help you rest your neck while you bath.  If you don't have a pillow on-hand, use a cotton bath towel folded up instead.

Ready to give your bathroom a makeover this year?  We can help you remodel your bathroom for your family's needs (and so that you can enjoy a relaxing bubble bath)! 

Call 585-216-3058 to contact our office or visit our website to learn more about the plumbing and remodeling services that we offer to the Rochester area.

Don't forget to check out our social pages!  Like us on Facebook, FOLLOW us on Twitter, and Connect with us on Google+!