There are many different ways to go about a bathroom makeover on a budget. If you are itching for a remodel but just can’t fit it into your budget, consider adding affordable decor or minor DIY bathroom renovations.

Here are eight ways to perform a quick bathroom makeover on a budget:

1. Upgrade Bathroom Fixtures

A simple upgrade to your bathroom’s plumbing fixtures can provide that sleek, modern look you’re aiming for in the bathroom. Upgrading to a more contemporary style of faucets or shower fixtures can modernize any bathroom.

Additionally, consider the style of lighting fixtures in your bathroom. From the fixture itself to the temperature of light that it’s projecting, ensure the lighting sets the perfect mood for your ideal bathroom. A new lighting fixture, like a chandelier, can add a level of sophistication that wasn’t there before.

2. Add Some Personality

Reflect on what your dream bathroom would look like. What’s the color scheme? Are there mirrors or art? Is the art abstract or contemporary? After deciding the type of decor you want to see in your bathroom, start by searching at antique stores, thrift shops, and flea markets for ideal pieces to add to your bathroom makeover haul.

Some of the best and cheapest finds are salvaged from antique and thrift shops, especially vintage decor. If you have a good eye, renovating antique furniture can be a powerful tool to modernize your bathroom and create a stylish, inviting space without breaking the bank.

3. Customize With Color

Painting your bathroom walls is a cost-effective and transformative way to create a modern and refreshed space. Opt for monochromatic colors for a sleek appearance, or paint an accent wall with statement colors for a bold look.

Experiment with a two-tone color scheme by painting the upper and lower parts of the walls in different colors. This approach can visually break up the space while also adding a modern twist.

4. Add Accent Tiles

Choose accent tiles with interesting textures for your walls, such as 3D tiles or tiles with raised patterns. Textured tiles can add depth and tactile interest to the bathroom, creating a modern and visually engaging environment, especially for small bathroom makeovers where there’s not as much space to work with.

Additionally, accent tiles create a focal point in the bathroom. This could be a feature wall behind the vanity, around the bathtub, or in the shower area. The focal point draws attention and adds a contemporary touch to the space.

5. Switch Up Your Vanity

Take your bathroom sink from boring to bold with a vintage vanity. Repurpose an old piece of furniture to give your bathroom a standout piece that contains the extra storage space you need. Just don’t forget to keep size in mind.

If you like the vanity you already have but are still bored with the view, try painting it. You can opt to paint the whole vanity the same color or create visual contrast by painting the cabinets and features of the vanity in different colors.

6. Try Alternative Flooring

From vinyl planks to patterned tiles, there are various options for switching up the flooring in your bathroom. You can opt for large format tiles to achieve a minimalist and seamless look or patterned tiles to add visual interest. The options are limitless.

7. Update Bathroom Hardware

Although it doesn’t seem like a big change, updating your bathroom hardware, like the knobs and handles on the vanity, can add a touch of elegance or boldness, depending on the style.

For best results, consider coordinating the color and style of the hardware with towel bars, lighting fixtures, and door hardware for a more comprehensive look.

8. Replace the Toilet Seat

Replacing your toilet seat can be a simple way to make the bathroom look newer and more modern. With the toilet being the most used component in the bathroom, it’s been through plenty of wear and tear. A new toilet seat can be the perfect addition to your freshly updated bathroom, especially with features like soft-close and high-shine finishes. Plus, toilet seats are easy to install.

Whether it's a complete overhaul or selectively updating key fixtures, a bathroom makeover on a budget can greatly enhance its functionality, aesthetics, and overall appeal.

Are you looking to renovate your bathroom? Our Salt Lake City, UT, team of professional plumbers provides installation, replacement, and plumbing repair and maintenance services for the whole home, including your bathroom. Contact us today to speak with a dependable plumber.

We also understand that bathroom renovations should be affordable. With our financing options, you can get the repairs, replacements, or installations you need to keep your home running smoothly and comfortably.

One of the most common plumbing concerns in the winter is the worry of frozen pipes. When a frozen pipe is detected, it must be thawed quickly and safely to ensure you don’t create further damage to your plumbing or home.

The urgency of thawing a frozen pipe is to prevent it from bursting. The pressure created by frozen water is enough to burst the strongest pipes, which is why frozen pipes are homeowners' worst plumbing nightmare. So, to start defrosting your frozen pipes as soon as possible, follow these tips:

1. Locate the Frozen Pipes

The easiest and fastest way to locate a frozen pipe is to turn on all the faucets in the home. If one or multiple faucets aren’t running water, trace their plumbing lines using your hands until you can feel the ice built up around it.

If there’s no water coming from any faucet, there’s likely an issue with the main water supply pipe. A bit harder to find, this pipe is usually located in the basement or crawl space, on the side of the house facing closer to the street.

2. Shut Off the Water Supply

You should always turn off the water if your pipes are frozen. If the pipe is frozen due to exposure to cold temperatures, shutting off the water supply helps prevent additional water from entering the pipe and freezing. This is crucial, especially in extremely cold conditions, to avoid the recurrence of freezing issues.

Additionally, you want the water shut off in case of a burst during the thawing process. Water expands as it freezes, and this expansion can exert pressure on the walls of the pipe. If the pipe is frozen and you apply heat to it for thawing, the melted ice can create even more pressure within the pipe. Since it’s likely weakened due to freezing, it may be more prone to bursting when the water starts flowing again. Shutting off the water supply alleviates this pressure, reducing the risk of burst pipes.

3. Thaw Exposed Pipes

If your blocked pipe is exposed, you have a variety of options for unthawing. You can wrap the area with hot wet towels, use a space heater or portable heater facing the pipe, or carefully use a blow dryer to melt the blockage.

No matter how you choose to thaw, you’ll want to do so with caution to prevent a burst or fire. It’s ideal to begin the thawing process near the edge of the frozen area, the side nearest to a kitchen or bathroom. This allows for any water or steam produced by the heating method to escape the pipe quickly. Make sure to leave the faucets on to allow the water to escape.

4. Thaw Enclosed Pipes

If the pipe is a bit harder to access, your thawing options become limited. Some pipes can be located behind a wall, making it almost impossible to get to them directly without the help of a professional. You can first try to turn the temperature up on your thermostat.

If you know the exact location of the problem pipe, you can try using infrared light to thaw frozen pipes in a wall, and if that fails, cutting out a section of the drywall is an option but best left to the professionals to avoid further damage to your home.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

To avoid dealing with the hassle of defrosting your frozen pipes, here are some tips to help you prevent pipes from freezing in the first place:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Insulate pipes in areas that the heat doesn’t reach, like crawl spaces or attics. Pipe insulation sleeves can be used for an extra layer of protection.

• Keep Interior Doors Open: Allow warm air to circulate throughout your home by keeping interior doors open. This includes cabinet doors (like under the sink) where some pipes are located.

• Let Faucets Drip: In freezing temperatures, it’s smart to let your faucets drip. The movement of water can help prevent freezing by relieving pressure within the pipe.

• Maintain a Consistent Temperature: Keep your home at a consistent temperature, especially during cold weather. Avoid drastic temperature changes that can contribute to freezing and thawing cycles in the pipes, as this will ultimately lead to a burst.

When it comes to thawing frozen pipes, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Scott Hale Plumbing! We are a reliable choice for all your plumbing needs in Salt Lake City. Request service or call us today at 801-981-4543.

It’s a new year, which often means out with the old and in with the new! If you notice a colder than usual home, and higher than usual energy bill, and a louder than average furnace — it might be time for an upgrade. If you think your furnace is past its prime, here a few reasons you should start the new year with a new furnace!

You Can Never Get The Right Temp

An old or outdated furnace will have trouble keeping your home evenly heated. If you are continually noticing that no matter what you set your thermostat to, you just can’t get the desired comfort level in your home — your furnace could be to blame, and it might be time for a replacement. 

It’s Always Making Noise

You might have tuned out the noises and clanks your furnace makes, but that doesn’t mean it should be a regular occurrence. Any odd whistling, banging or wheezing is a sign that something isn’t right. If you have continually scheduling repair appointments but the noises just won’t quit — it might be time to say your goodbyes ad upgrade to a new furnace. 

With A New Furnace You’ll Get:

Comfort and Convenience: Say goodbye to an uneven home and say hello to comfy and cozy. Getting the desired temperature will be more accessible than ever and bonus — no more waiting for repairs.

Lower Energy Bills: With a more evenly heated home you’ll see a decreased energy bill saving you money in the long run! 

Fewer Repair Costs: The initial cost might seem like a lot, but when you add up all the repair cost your old furnace left you with it — it evens out. 

Looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s thermostat, heating and air systems operating at its best? Schedule your tune-up with the experts Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today

Winter has arrived and with it comes the cold nights and drafty homes, but that second part doesn’t have to be. With the right insulation, your home can be comfy and cozy in no time. If you forget the extra cost and remember the overall benefits and you can be headed toward an adequately heated home with a lower electric bill! So if you’re living in a poorly insulated home, here’s why you need to fix that ASAP.

It’s Better For Your System

A well-insulated house is one that is draft free. Without drafts, your heat doesn’t have to be cranking to get to your optimal temperature. When you have poor insulation, your heating is escaping and leaving some rooms colder than others. When your home is insulated as it should be, you can then keep your heat at the right temperature; your system is saving energy and causing you fewer chances of repairs in the future.

It’s Better For Your Comfort

Tired of always bundling up, or never feeling like the home is at the right temperature? It could be due to too many drafts. By insulating your home and windows, you can keep the heat in where it belongs. No need to find the hot spots in the house to sit anymore! 

It’s Better For Your Wallet 

The effects of insulation pay off! By keeping your home properly insulated you are keeping your energy bill low! Say goodbye to heating the neighborhood and hello to extra electrical savings. Another plus — your HVAC will have less wear and tear giving you more life on your system.

Your insulation and heating system go hand and hand! If you’re looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s heating and air systems operating at its best,  schedule your tune-up with the experts Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today!

The holiday season can be a busy one, filled with shopping, cooking, and cleaning. While you begin to start prepping for your annual family celebration, keep one thing in mind — your home’s temperature. As the house starts to get packed, and the dinner is in the oven, your home can quickly turn from jolly and cool, to sweaty and full. So as we head towards the holiday we ho ho hope you remember these tips to keep your home at a reasonable temp.

Use Your Curtains

Curtains are more than just a beautiful decor piece; they have some function too. Instead of cranking up the heat to keep the home warm and comfy, let the sun shine through! It can add some added warmth and save you energy too. 

Keep Humidity Low

A comfortable house is one with an average humidity level. In the winter, homes can often become a bit dry and stuffy. So if your home is feeling a bit drier than usual, use a humidifier before your guests arrive to ensure your home is comfortable. 

Think Of Body Heat

If you are planning a house full of guests for this holiday season, you’ll want to keep the temperature in mind. Too many people in one place can create a whole lot of heat, so keep the temperature low and cool when guest arrive to make up for the extra heat they will be bringing. 

Make Use Of Fans 

If you are planning a massive holiday feast, your oven will adequately be working overtime to get everything ready and warm. The extra heat and humidity can make your house hot and uncomfortable. To avoid the extra warmth, use your exhaust and ceiling fans to let the excess heat escape and the fresh air to circulate.

Looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s thermostat, heating and air systems operating at its best? Schedule your tune-up with the experts Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today

When it comes to heat pumps, there are a ton of wrong information or myths that often go along with them. When opting to install a heat pump, you are choosing an energy efficient way to heat your home evenly. So if you are unaware of the value a heat pump can have to your heating and cooling system, here are just a few of the myths that you should ignore.

Too Pricey

When investing in a heat pump, you might see a higher initial payment and installation fee, but the overall savings will make up for it in the end. When installed correctly, a heat pump will help you heat your home more efficiently, saving you money down the road. So if you’re looking for a warmer home with a lower energy bill, a heat pump can help. 

They Make Too Much Noise

In the past, this might have been a true statement, but now with modern technology, it’s a myth. The noise that a heat pump produces comes from air being pulled through the fan. If your heat pump were installed correctly, it would not disturb your home’s noise level in any way. So though it might produce some noise, it won’t be any more than the sounds your refrigerator makes. 

Only Good With New Construction

This common myth has to do with the heat pumps efficiency. If you’re looking to get the best performance and energy usage from a heat pump, a newly constructed home with new insulation would be your best bet. That is not to say that you can not add one to an existing home, if you are looking to upgrade your heating or AC system, a heat pump can be added along with it. 

Looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s heating and air systems operating at its best? Schedule your tune-up with the experts Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today

Signs Your Thermostat Is Not Working

Your thermostat is an essential component of your home that you use often but probably never think twice about, but it actually plays an integral part in your home’s heating system. No matter the age of your thermostat, issues can occur, and when they do, it’s important to notice the signs.

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Though you might just assume you have a drafty house or there’s a problem with your heating system, it could be that your thermostat is not working properly. If you are continually struggling to keep your home at a suitable temperature, here are five signs that your thermostat is not working:

Bad Batteries

Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as old batteries. Other reasons that your thermostat isn’t fully functioning can be dirt, an unlevel box, and the thermostat location. These are all minor things that could be affecting your heating. So, if you are noticing that the thermostat number isn’t reflecting the way your home feels, first check the batteries and then go from there.

Thermostat Setting and Room Temperature Don’t Match

A bump in the wall can throw a mechanical thermostat off level and cause setting and temperature issues. To fix an unlevel thermostat, place a carpenter’s level just above the device and make adjustments until it’s level again.

If you have a mechanical thermostat, a frozen heat anticipator could be another potential culprit. Located under the cover of your thermostat, there’s a small disc with calibration marks located at the center.

It will likely have the words "Longer" or "Longer cycles" labeled on it. It will also have a lever arm and indicator relating to the calibration marks. This is the heat anticipator adjustment lever arm. Try gently pushing it in either direction to get it unstuck.

Furnace Is Repeatedly Turning On and Off

If your furnace just won’t seem to kick on or is continually turning on and off, your first thought might be that the furnace is the issue, but that’s not always the case. A dirty or unleveled thermostat could be the cause. Before you rule out your thermostat, check for build-up, adjust the temperature, and take note of the aftermath. If none of these seem to be the issue, it could be your furnace.

Thermostat Is Installed in the Wrong Spot

Consider the thermostat’s location in the home. Avoid placing the thermostat near heat sources such as lamps, electronics, or appliances, as it may register false temperatures and affect its accuracy. Exposure to drafts or direct sunlight can also impact thermostat readings.

Make sure the thermostat is installed in a location where it can accurately measure room temperature, preferably near the center of your home. Some smart thermostats have additional sensors that can be placed throughout the house to give your thermostat a better picture of the overall temperature.

Thermostat Is Programmed Wrong

Ensure that the programming aligns with your schedule, preferences, and the overall needs of your household. If you're unsure about programming your thermostat or if you've experienced persistent issues, consider consulting the thermostat manually or seeking assistance from a professional HVAC technician.

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Consider Upgrading Your Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat offers various benefits that contribute to energy efficiency, convenience, and enhanced control over your home's heating system. Consider upgrading for optimal performance and additional perks.

Programmable Schedules

Smart thermostats enable you to create customized heating and cooling schedules based on your daily routine. You can set different temperatures for specific times, ensuring comfort when needed and energy savings when the home is unoccupied.

Zoning Control

Some advanced thermostats support zoning systems, allowing you to divide your home into different temperature zones. This capability enables you to control the temperature independently in various areas, optimizing comfort and energy efficiency.

Smart Alerts and Notifications

Smart thermostats can provide alerts and notifications for maintenance tasks, such as filter replacement or system diagnostics. This helps ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently, further expanding its lifespan.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

By optimizing heating and cooling based on your actual needs, smart thermostats contribute to reduced energy consumption, leading to a smaller carbon footprint and a more environmentally friendly home.

Are you looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s thermostat, heating, and air systems operating at their best or ready to upgrade your thermostat? Schedule your tune-up or installation with the experts at Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today.

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It’s that time of year—time to get out your winter gear and turn up the heat. As we begin to snuggle up under the covers, don’t forget to add cleaning your furnace to your winter checklist.

If you usually opt out of scheduling a furnace maintenance appointment and are determined to do it yourself, you’ll want to keep safety in mind. To ensure that you’re covering every safety measure possible, here are some things you should never do while cleaning your furnace:

1. Never Leave It On

One of the first things you’ll want to do when you’re maintaining or cleaning your furnace is to shut it off. You’ll want to shut off both the electrical power and the fuel supply source.

To shut off the electrical power, look for a switch with a red outlet cover. In most homes, it’s placed near the stairs or by your burner. To find the shutoff valve for the fuel supply, look near the incoming gas pipe or the fuel tank. These locations are important to know in case of a leak or fire.

2. Be Careful Not to Misuse Products

When it comes time to clean your furnace, you’ll want to do your research on proper cleaning products. You don’t want to risk you and your family’s safety or wind up damaging your system.

Look for products that aren’t flammable and that are approved by your manufacturer. Don’t forget to remove them once done, as leaving products or rags near your furnace can be a severe fire hazard, so be sure that you always keep the area clear.

3. Don’t Forget to Clean the Furnace Filter

Your indoor air quality is mainly dependent on the state of your furnace filter, so a filter that is over a year old should be replaced. A clean filter will ensure that fresh air is getting pushed into your home and will keep your machine working at its best. So, while you are cleaning your furnace, remember to check your filter and replace it if needed.

4. Don’t Overlook Ventilation

It’s essential to inspect your ductwork and vents during the cleaning of your furnace to ensure adequate airflow. Check for any obstructions that could cause a blocked vent or inconsistent heating.

Proper ventilation is essential not only for your indoor air quality but also for your safety, especially if you have an oil or gas furnace. The incomplete combustion of fuel can produce carbon monoxide gas. Adequate ventilation helps ensure the effective removal of combustion byproducts, including CO, preventing the buildup of potentially dangerous gases in your home.

5. Avoid DIY Furnace Repair

Some components of your furnace can be cleaned and inspected with no problem, while others can be considered more dangerous. Once the inside components of your furnace are exposed, it can be tempting to poke around. If you notice something needs repairing during your cleaning process, it’s best to leave that part to the professionals.

One of the biggest risks of a DIY furnace repair is the potential for gas leaks and CO poisoning, as mentioned above. Another component that requires careful attention is the electrical components of your furnace. Loose or melted wiring or problems with your motor blower can lead to electrical hazards or even fire.

For all the independent homeowners out there, it’s still crucial to receive professional inspections of your furnace or HVAC system at least once a year. Professionals have the skill and knowledge to pinpoint a problem before it starts to show itself, which is why preventative maintenance checks play a huge part in saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

Why Is Cleaning Your Furnace Important?

A clean furnace is essential for both safety and efficiency considerations. Here are some reasons why cleaning your furnace annually is crucial:

• Prevention of Overheating: A dirty furnace may struggle to dissipate heat effectively, eventually leading to the overheating of internal components. Overheating can result in reduced efficiency and damage to the furnace.

• Prolonged Equipment Lifespan: The accumulation of dirt and debris in your furnace can contribute to wear and tear on furnace components. Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of particles that can cause friction, corrosion, and other forms of damage, ultimately prolonging the lifespan.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: A clean furnace contributes to improved indoor air quality by reducing the circulation of dust, allergens, and pollutants. Airborne particles from a dirty furnace can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies.

If you’re unsure of what to look for or think your furnace might not be working as it should, it’s best to schedule maintenance with a professional. Our experts can help keep your Salt Lake City home’s heating and air systems operating at their best. Schedule your tune-up with Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today!

There are always those unexpected or unwanted guests on Thanksgiving, but this year, don’t have it be your plumber! Prepping and cleaning your Thanksgiving day feast can be a tiring feat, but so can be cleaning the drain clogs afterward. To keep your pipes in the best shape possible and stop the unnecessary need to break out the drain cleaner, here are five-holiday foods that are a pipe and garbage disposal don’t.

1. Oil And Grease

Grease is your plumbings worse nightmare. When you place grease down your drain, though it might go down as liquid — it won’t stay that way. Fats, grease, and oils will eventually harden, and when it does, it will fill your pipes and could cause a significant clog. Dispose of all grease in your waste can and be careful to not get any of it down the drain.

2. Butter

Butter has a similar effect as grease does. Butter will stick to the sides of your pipes, and over time it can build up. Once it builds up, it becomes a messy water-resistant barrier that can require a major plumbing fix. So try to avoid excess butter from going down the drain.

3. Eggshells

Have a garbage disposal? The sharp little edges of eggshells are dangerous for the motor and can get stuck and wear down its parts. So while you are baking and cooking keep your sink eggshell free.

4. Expandable Foods

Pasta and rice might seem like a soft, smooth texture, but the more water, the more they expand. As they expand, some might even get sticky and cling to the side of your pipe leading to a clog.

5. Coffee Grinds

Coffee grinds can lead to a very messy situation. The grinds stick to your pipes like sludge or cement. You are better off letting them go from the coffee can to the trash can.

Scott Hale Plumbing is the intelligent choice for all your plumbing needs in Salt Lake City – so for help with repairs request service or call us today.

1. Control Your Humidity Level

A humid home is not only an uncomfortable one, but it’s also an energy waster. When your home has a high humidity level, your HVAC system has to work double time to get to your desired temperature. Normal humidity leads to less energy wasted saving you money in the end.

2. Look Into Upgrades

If your appliances or HVAC is older than you, it might be time to get an upgrade. Any appliances that are over a decade old don’t have the same energy efficiency standards as modern ones do. The same goes for HVAC; a modern day HVAC system is now constructed to give you the same comfort and a considerably lower energy usage.

3. Schedule Maintenance 

Tune-ups are crucial to energy efficiency. A dirty or untuned machine can be a big energy waster. With regular maintenance, you can not only save energy but prevent any future preventable breakdowns.

4. Go Digital

If you don’t have the digital thermostat, you might want to invest in one. Many new thermostats are now programmable and even allow to adjust your temperature from an app. With added control, you can improve your heat and in turn, save energy.

5. Consider Home Zoning 

By splitting your home into different heating and cooling zones, you have the option to heat and cool in only the areas you need. There is no need to blast the heat throughout the house when you are alone occupying one room. By increasing your heat or air just where it’s needed — you can save energy and lower your bill.

Looking to keep your Salt Lake City home’s heating and air systems operating at its best? Schedule your tune-up with the experts Scott Hale Plumbing, Heating & Air today