Honeywell Wireless Thermostats.

Some Honeywell thermostats are wireless models, such as the thermostat included in the Wireless Focuspro Programmable Thermostat Kit. All you need to do is place the receiver in the space where you want to control the temperature and install the thermostat elsewhere. The receiver will then communicate with the wireless thermostat, wherever it may be. This might sound similar to a thermostat sensor, but it is not. Whereas the thermostat sensor senses the temperature of a room, the wireless thermostat receiver only receives instructions from the thermostat and adjusts the temperature accordingly.

The Wireless FocusPro Programmable Thermostat Kit and other Honeywell Thermostats can be found at SupplyHouse.com.

Buying The Right-Sized AC

When purchasing an air conditioner, be sure to buy one that is proportional in size to your room. Installing bigger room air conditioner unit in a room that is smaller than its capability will result in larger energy expenses than one that is sized appropriately for the room. A unit that is too large will more than likely be continually switched on and off, and for a device that is meant to run for long periods of time, this constant interruption will make the unit less and less efficient over time.

Air conditioners can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

How Does A Ball Valve Work?

A ball valve is a valve with a spherical disk inside. This spherical disk is essentially a ball that has a hole, or port, through the middle of it that allows for water flow. With a turn of the handle, the disk turns accordingly. For example, when the handle is in line with (parallel to) the length of the valve, the hole will also be in line with the length of the valve and water will be able to flow through. When the handle is turned so that it is perpendicular to (makes a 'T' shape with) the length of the valve, the ball will be turned in the same direction so that the hole is situated against the walls of the valve and flow is blocked.

Ball Valves are now ON SALE at www.supplyhouse.com.

Save With Pre-Insulated PEX

Now you can save both time and money on your PEX plumbing project by installing Wirsbo's Pre-Insulated AquaPEX Tubing. This special tubing offers the same benefits of Wirsbo (Uponor) AquaPEX (PEX-a) tubing, while additionally boasting a layer of 1/2" PEX-foam insulation. The layer of insulation protects the tubing from freezing during cold weather, and having it pre-installed saves you the hassle and cost of installing it yourself. Best of all, the pre-insulated tubing still has all the features that make regular AquaPEX tubing so versatile: its tight bend radius, flexibility, durability, and 25-year limited warranty.

Wirsbo's Pre-Insulated AquaPEX Tubing can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

PEX-AL-PEX

With so many different kinds of PEX to choose from, how do you make a decision? The answer comes down to what your PEX project will entail. Is the PEX tubing going to be used for a radiant heat application or an open system? Is the PEX expected to withstand high temperatures? If you are looking for the perfect type of PEX for a high-temperature system, such as baseboard heat, PEX-AL-PEX is the perfect choice. PEX-AL-PEX consists of a layer of PEX, a layer of aluminum, and another layer of PEX. PEX-AL-PEX is also considered more convenient than other types of PEX is because it tends to hold its shape once you bend it, so it does not require fastening like more traditional forms of PEX. It additionally boasts an oxygen barrier, which assures that no oxygen enters the heating system. This is extremely important in heating applications because the presence of oxygen can rust and corrode the system's components.


PEX-AL-PEX can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Let The Sun Shine

With all this talk lately about the need to find renewable energy resources, all we have to do is look up! There is no source of energy more abundant than our own Sun. Our planet absorbs nearly 3,850,000 exajoules (EJ) of solar energy per year. This is as much energy in one hour than our entire human civilization uses in one year!

How can you take advantage of this powerful resource? You can start in your very own home. As I mentioned yesterday, water heating accounts for the second largest energy usage in our homes, behind heating and cooling. Caleffi manufactures a large selection of solar heat products, ranging from convenient Solar Water Heating Kits to SolarFlex Stainless Steel Piping- everything you need to get started with solar energy.

Caleffi's Solar Water Heating System Kits include all of the necessary components needed to install a solar water heating system. The kits comprise of the solar collectors, pump station and controller, storage tank, and all of the other corresponding hardware and components. You can choose from a system that accommodates 1 to 2 people, to one that is powerful enough to handle a 4 to 6 person household.

If you already have a solar water heating system in place, Caleffi also manufactures piping specific for solar uses. SolarFlex Stainless Steel Piping features pre-insulated flow and return pipes for solar hot water heating systems. The pipes are used to connect the solar collector with the storage tank, and because the insulation reduces heat loss in the system, the piping is also Earth-friendly!

No matter what your choice of solar energy usage is, you will be happy knowing that the decision you make is an unselfish one: the amount of solar energy to reach the Earth's surface in one year is almost double the amount that can ever be obtained from all of Earth's non-renewable resources combined. So go ahead, and take as much as you need!

Caleffi products, including Solar Water Heating Kits and SolarFlex Stainless Steel Piping, and be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

Happy Earth Day!

There is no better way to celebrate and appreciate Mother Earth than to practice environmental friendliness in our homes. Through simple measures to cut down on energy losses everyday, we are taking great strides in making our planet a better place to live.

Did you know that almost half of the energy used in a home goes towards heating and cooling? Cut down on costs and wasted energy by installing a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats are designed to accommodate your family's lifestyle. Choose a lower temperature setting for hours during the day when the house is empty, and a higher temperature for when everyone returns. A lower temperature setting can also be set for times when the family is asleep or days when you are away on vacation. With brands ranging from Honeywell, White Rodgers, Robertshaw, Lux, and Tekmar, finding a programmable thermostat that suits your needs is simple and will reduce not only your energy bills, but also your greenhouse gas emissions.

Another area where you can reduce your carbon footprint is in water heating. Water heating accounts for the second largest energy usage in our homes, behind heating and cooling. If you are looking to replace an old water heater, consider purchasing one that is Energy Star Qualified, such as a Bradford White High Efficiency Water Heater. The Energy Star Qualified Bradford White Water Heaters feature 2" Non-CFC Foam Insulation. This layer of insulation reduces heat loss, which results in lower energy bills without cutting back on performance. The only place you will notice a difference is in your wallet!

Let Earth Day be a simple reminder that little differences can go a long way. From recycling trash to installing an energy-efficient device in your home, being environmentally-aware does not mean you have to sacrifice luxury or comfort. Steps taken to be Earth-friendly start in the home, but the results will be seen around the planet.

Programmable thermostats and Bradford White water heaters can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

PEX Installation Made Easy

Because PEX tubing is so pliable and flexible, it has become a convenient choice for those looking for an alternative to copper pipe in their plumbing and heating systems.

Whereas copper pipe calls for cutting and soldering to turn a corner, PEX requires neither. To create a 90 degree bend, just snap the tubing into a PEX bend support. Bend supports are designed specifically to help PEX tubing turn corners. They are available in different materials and come in different sizes that correspond with the various tubing sizes.

Although the thought of a tangled jungle of PEX may seem daunting, don't let it deter you! To keep PEX tubing organized, you can secure it with zip ties or PEX clips. PEX clips are also available in different sizes and can accomodate even the most cumbersome of set-ups.

With these handy installation tools, you will find that setting up a PEX system in your home is not only faster than installing copper pipe, but it is also hassle-free.

PEX bend supports, zip ties, PEX clips, and other installation accessories can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

Tangled Up In PEX?

Are you tangled up in PEX? A PEX Tube Uncoiler makes PEX Tubing installation simple, organized, and manageable. Just load a coil of PEX tubing onto the Uncoiler and the sturdy device will hold the tubing in place and keep it from getting tangled. Unwind as much or as little of the tubing as you need for your project, and the rest of the coil remains intact on the Uncoiler.

PEX Tube Uncoilers and PEX Tubing can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

PEX Plumbing Supplies

Installing PEX tubing can involve many miscellaneous parts and components, and just the thought of gathering all of these supplies may seem daunting to the average do-it-yourself-er. SupplyHouse.com solves this problem. At SupplyHouse.com, you will find everything you need to quickly and conveniently complete your PEX project. Whether you are looking for plastic bend supports, PEX tubing clamps, escutcheons, or bundle ties, SupplyHouse.com has you covered. No more trekking to the hardware store for tube talons! Just sit back, browse through our large selection of PEX Plumbing Supplies, and enjoy delivery straight to your door.

Find everything you need for your next PEX Plumbing project at www.supplyhouse.com.

Making The Most Out Of Limited Space

In some projects, elbow room is just not a luxury. The RIDGID Close Quarters Tubing Cutter is the perfect tool for use in situations where space is limited. It can be used on small diameter, hard and soft copper, aluminum, brass, and plastic tubing. And although it may be lightweight and small, it offers easy control and a clean cut. RIDGID's Tubing Cutter is a convenient tool that any handyman (or woman) in a tight spot will appreciate.

You can find RIDGID's Close Quarters Tubing Cutter at www.supplyhouse.com.

Don't Know Where To Start?

If you are beginning work on a PEX project and don't know where to start, equip yourself with one of many PEX Plumbing Packages . These PEX Plumbing Kits are specially designed with you, the do-it-yourself-er, in mind. Choose from either the HydroPEX Clamp Starter Kit, Uponor Wirsbo PEX Plumbing Starter Kit, PEX Crimp Starter Kit, or the ViegaPEX Press Starter Kit. Each includes four 100ft. coils of PEX, as well as the corresponding tool and accessories needed to complete the task.

Whatever your next PEX project may be, you can be sure that a PEX Plumbing Kit will help you do the job! Also, be sure to visit the SupplyHouse.com Resource Center for guides and videos on all things PEX.

The HydroPEX Clamp Starter Kit, Uponor Wirsbo PEX Plumbing Starter Kit, PEX Crimp Starter Kit, and ViegaPEX Press Starter Kit can be found at www.supplyhouse.com.

Water Tile Bodysprays

Have you ever wondered what could possibly be better than jumping into a hot shower after a long day? How about about jumping into a hydrotherapy experience? Kohler takes your shower to a whole new level with the 22-Nozzle and 54-Nozzle Water Tile Bodysprays. Each square-shaped tile delivers a different intensity of spraying power, allowing for an invigorating or calming shower. Choose the 22-Nozzle Water Tile for a high-volume spray, or the 54-Nozzle Water Tile for a soothing soak. Both Bodysprays have an adjustable spray face and are finished in brushed nickel. They are the perfect complement for any bathroom and the perfect fit for every lifestyle.

You can find both the 22-Nozzle and 54-Nozzle Water Tile Bodysprays at www.supplyhouse.com

Pain-Free PEX Stapling

Peter Mangone introduces a new way to tackle your radiant heating project: standing up! With the Reddi-Strip Stapler, there is no more bending, kneeling, or crouching to fasten PEX tubing. All you need to do is load the strips of flexible Reddi-Strip PEX staples, position the stapler over the PEX tubing, and fire away!

The Reddi-Strip Stapler utilizes Reddi-Strip Staples only. Use the S5RE-13 Reddi-Strip Staples on 1" foamboard and insulating tarp and the S5RE-16 staples on 1-1/2" and 2" foamboard. Although the staples are designed to securely fasten PEX tubing, tubing that is larger than 5/8" cannot be fastened.

To keep your Reddi-Strip Stapler in good shape, it is suggested that you regularly lubricate the chute opening around the plunging handle. Proper maintenance and proper use of your Reddi-Strip Stapler will leave it in good condition for future uses and ensure that sore backs and aching knees from PEX stapling are pains of the past!

The Peter Mangone Reddi-Strip Stapler and Reddi-Strip Staples are in stock at www.supplyhouse.com.

Can I Use PEX With Steam?

Although PEX tubing is extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, it should never be used in steam systems. The maximum liquid temperature that PEX can withstand is around 180 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature of steam is much hotter and you will run the risk of damaging your PEX pipe.

PEX tubing can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Basic Plumbing Tools

Every homeowner is bound to encounter his or her share of plumbing problems. Be it a leaky faucet or a clogged toilet, such tiny issues can quickly turn into bigger problems if they are not dealt with immediately. However, the majority of plumbing jobs call for the same basic tools. It is easy to be prepared! Keep a wrench, set of pliers, a screwdriver, some measuring tape, and a level ready to use. Also, a toilet plunger or toilet auger will come in handy whenever the toilet clogs. Remembering to have these items at hand will save you much time and effort (and not to mention, stress) the next time your home's plumbing surprises you.

Stock up on plumbing tools at www.supplyhouse.com

April Sump Pump Specials!

After the month of March hit us hard with rainstorms, we aren't expecting April to be any kinder. Prepare yourself this season with a sump pump! From now until April 23, 2010, SupplyHouse.com is offering low prices on the following sump pumps:

Zoeller N53 Mighty-Mate Non-Automatic Cast Iron Effluent Pump
Little Giant 6E-CIA-SFS 50 GPM Automatic Sump / Effluent Pump
Zoeller M57 Mighty-Mate Automatic Cast Iron Effluent
Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Automatic Cast Iron Effluent
Zoeller M98 Flow-Mate Automatic Cast Iron Effluent
Little Giant 6-CIA 1/3 HP, 45 GPM Automatic Submersible Sump Pump
Little Giant 6-CIA 1/3 HP, 46 GPM Automatic Submersible Sump Pump
Little Giant 10S-CIM 1/2 HO, 110 GPM Manual Submersible Sewage Ejector
Little Giant 6-CIA 1/3 HP, 45 GPM Automatic Submersible Sump Pump

These sump pump sale items can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Mini-Split Air Conditioners

If you are looking for a way to cool your home and find that installing ductwork is impossible, consider an LG or Sanyo Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner. A mini-split air conditioner is composed of two units: the compressor unit, which is located outside of the home, and the air handler unit, which is placed inside the home.

Mini-splits are a small and convenient alternative to a ducted air conditioning system. Where ductwork installation calls for a massive amount of construction, mini-split units generally require only a three inch hole drilled through a wall for the conduit. Since they are ductless, they also avoid the energy losses attributed to ducted air conditioning systems. In comparison to other add-on units, mini-split air conditioners grant you more freedom in terms of placement options. They are available in wall-mounted, ceiling-suspended, ceiling-recessed, or floor-standing models and are less noisy, since the compressor is located outdoors.

Although a mini-split unit is a simple cooling solution for your home, installation is tricky. When choosing to purchase one, it is recommended that you seek a certified technician to perform the installation.

LG and Sanyo Mini-Split Air Conditioners can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Ceramic Sink Maintenance

A ceramic sink, such as a Kraus Ceramic Bathroom Sink, can be a sleek and trendy addition to any bathroom. To retain its pristine appearance, it is important to take proper care of it. Hard water buildup can cause spotting or rough spots on a ceramic sink. After each use, use a dry cloth to wipe it dry. If mineral rough spots refuse to go away, fill your sink with a mixture of lukewarm water and white vinegar. Wait ten minutes, then use a sponge to scrub at the rough spots. Drain the sink, and rinse it with a solution of warm water and soap. Never scrub your sink with a scrubbing pad or metal sponge for it can damage the finish of the sink.

Kraus Ceramic Bathroom Sinks can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Escutcheons For PEX

You may be familiar with escutcheons on doors or faucets. They are usually installed around a keyhole, doorknob, or faucet handle, and protects the surrounding area from wear. However, did you know that escutcheons are also available for PEX Tubing? Escutcheons for PEX surround your PEX Tubing where it exits the wall and gives your project a clean finished look.

Escutcheons for PEX can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

As the weather gets warmer and friends and family start to make regular appearances in your kitchen, now would be a good time to think about how you use your garbage disposal. Remember that hard-to-grind, gritty, or fibrous waste like carrots, banana peels, or poultry skins should be avoided. Such materials can dull the blades and get stuck underneath them. Grease should never be poured down the drain. A buildup of grease can clog the pipes and decrease the efficiency of your garbage disposal. It is best to run cold water down the drain for 15 seconds prior to and after using the device to flush materials down the pipes. Cold water should be used over hot water because higher water temperatures melt thicker materials, such as animal fats, which then stick to pipes and build up over time.

Just follow these simple steps and you can be sure that your garbage disposal will be in tip-top condition, ready to take on whatever hungry guests show up for dinner.

Garbage Disposals can be found at www.supplyhouse.com

Sump Pumps For April Showers

Before we had a chance to say, "April showers bring May flowers", March rainstorms rocked our skies. If you have experienced episodes of excessively wet weather, you may want to check on your sump pump. Sump pumps send water away from a sump pit to a municipal storm drain or dry well. They are predominately used where basement flooding is common and where the water table is above the foundation of a home. Maintaining your sump pump is as easy as performing these simple tasks:

1. Check on the effectiveness of the sump pump's motor by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. If the pump does not start up automatically and drain the water, have a professional take a look at it.
2. Make sure that the pump not only turns on, but also pumps water out. A sump pump is useless if it doesn't take water away from your home.
3. Clear the grate of any any sand, dirt, or gravel that may have accumulated. A buildup of debris decreases efficiency and damages the pump over time.

During periods of excessive rainfall, you should inspect your sump pump more frequently. Doing so will ensure that you catch and fix any issues before April showers leave you with a flooded basement.

A large selection of sump pumps can be found at www.supplyhouse.com