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+!