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Article by Douglas Trattner Most families do more than 400 loads of laundry a year, costing upwards of $600. Trim those costs with these energy-saving tricks.
Here’s a fun laundry room fact: The average American family washes 300 loads of laundry a year, spending as much as $1.08 per load, for a yearly total of $324. Most laundry room expenses come from heating water for washing and heating air for drying. But these costs aren’t set in stone, and you can save money by following these energy-reducing tips. Get the Most from Your WasherNinety-percent of the cost of running a washer goes to heating water. Here’s how to save money while getting your clothes clean. 1. Use cold water. You can save a bundle by washing your clothes in cold water, which is a perfectly efficient way to clean most clothes. Washing a load in cold water costs only about $0.04, compared to washing in hot/warm water for $0.68. 2. Run full loads. It takes as much electricity to wash a small load as it does a full one, so you’ll save money by washing only full loads. 3. Update your machine. If you don’t already have an Energy Star-certified washer, it’s time to get one. These energy-efficient machines use about 25% less energy and 33% less water than for a standard machine. 4. Buy a front-loading machine. Energy Star-certified front load washers use about 45% less energy and 50% less water than top load agitator washers. Compared to a top load impeller washer, front load washers are still 25% more energy and water efficient. Related: How to Buy a Washer Get the Most from Your Dryer5. Spin faster. The faster you spin clothes in the washer, the less time they’ll need in the dryer. If you have the option, chose a faster spin cycle. 6. Clean lint filters. Remove lint after every load, and clean ducts annually. Your clothes will dry faster, using less energy. 7. Warm it up. If possible, locate your dryer in a warm laundry room rather than in a cold basement. The warmer the air coming into the dryer, the less energy your machine will use to heat it up. 8. Go gas. Drying a load of laundry in a gas dryer generally costs less per load than an electric dryer. 9. Keep it full. Dry only full loads and try not to mix fast- and slow-drying clothes — a practice that wastes energy by continuing to dry clothes that are no longer wet. 10. Let nature help out. When the weather is warm, cut your energy costs by drying clothes outside on a clothesline. If homeowners association regulations don’t allow you to set up a clothesline outside, use a standalone drying rack inside. Article by HouseLogic A new shower valve can turn on the benefits you want. Find out the best way to get it done.
We’ve all been there: You turn the shower handle, expecting a cascade of water, and instead, you’re greeted with a lackluster dribble. It’s like your shower decided to take a leisurely stroll instead of giving you the wake-up call you desperately needed. That’s where your shower valve comes in. Your shower valve is an essential component of your shower system and is often used daily, so it can quickly become compromised over time. Replacing your shower valve can go a long way toward regulating water flow and maintaining water pressure and consistent temperature. Let’s look at a few considerations for shower valve replacement, including expenses, timelines, and preparation: When to Replace Your Shower Valve If your shower resembles a lazy river at a water park on a scorching day, it might be time to say goodbye. In older homes, replacing fixtures like shower valves can significantly improve functionality and efficiency, allowing you to save water and reduce utility bills. Plus, it could mean you experience more consistent water flow when you shower. It may be time to replace your shower valve if you’re experiencing:
You’ll need to prepare appropriately to replace your shower valve successfully. This phase involves shutting off the water supply, removing the existing valve, and inspecting the surrounding area for signs of damage or corrosion. Additionally, you may need to adjust the existing plumbing to accommodate the new valve. Selecting the Right Valve Before you start your shower valve replacement, you’ll need to determine the type and size of valve you need. Identify the type of valve currently installed in your shower. (Review the list of common valve types below.) This is important because each valve type may use different hardware or plumbing features and require different replacement processes. Next, measure the valve. Start by removing the cover plate and finding the valve body. (A flashlight could help improve visibility, and taking a photo may prove useful for later reference.) Measure the center-to- center distance between the hot- and cold-water ports on the valve. Check for additional features, such as a diverter for a showerhead or tub spout, to help determine which replacement valve you need. Types of Shower Valves If it’s time to replace your shower valve, review this list of common types of shower valves to help identify the existing one and a possible replacement.
Now that you’ve measured and identified the type of valve you need, here are the steps to replace a shower valve. This outline of the replacement process can help you anticipate what to expect during the project. For specific details, consult a professional.
The timeline for a shower valve replacement can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the installation, the condition of the existing plumbing, and unforeseen complications during the process. On average, you can complete a standard shower valve replacement in an hour and a half to three hours, according to HomeGuide. However, this doesn’t include drying and curing, which could take a few days. Plus, if you have a broken shower valve, the project might require a little more time upfront to assess the damage. More-complex installations or situations requiring extensive plumbing system adjustments may extend the project timeline. Materials and Labor Costs Budgeting is crucial to any home improvement project, including shower valve replacement. Materials Although additional tools may be necessary, valve replacement often requires:
Labor Labor can account for a significant portion of the project’s overall expense and vary depending on the job’s complexity, local labor rates, and the plumber’s experience level. On average, homeowners can expect to pay $375 to $450 for labor to replace a shower valve, including time for planning, buying materials, preparation setup, and post-project cleanup. However, complex installations or situations requiring additional plumbing system adjustments may increase labor costs. A good practice is to obtain multiple quotes from reputable plumbers to support a fair and competitive price. Preparation costs are also a factor. Check with your plumber about whether they bill for prep tasks like turning off the water, dismantling the old valve, and assessing the condition of the existing plumbing. You’ll also want to get estimates for potential drywall repair in case the replacement calls for some wall adjustments where the new fixtures are installed and in surrounding areas. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Shower Valve Replacement For experienced DIYers with plumbing experience, it may be possible to swap out existing shower valves. However, there are exceptions. For example, an older shower valve could be more complex, so replacement may best be left to professionals. Professional Shower Valve Replacement Hiring a professional for this task could cost $100 to $300 for the valve replacement, not considering prep, cleanup, and more challenging replacements requiring drywall repairs. So, you’ll need to consider whether your project budget allows for the support of a certified plumber or if your skills will enable you to DIY. DIY Shower Valve Replacement You may be able to replace the entire shower valve yourself. Still, hiring a professional plumber is generally recommended; a broad range of tools and materials are required for the job. In addition, particularly with older plumbing systems, you’ll need to understand how those systems integrate with newer systems so that you create tight seals that don’t leak. If you attempt the job yourself, make sure you have the proper supplies. When Can You Use Your Shower Again? A critical question is when you can expect to use your shower again, especially if it’s the only one in the house. In most cases, you can take a shower after the replacement is completed and the materials are dry. This includes the fitting and curing of materials, which may take varying amounts of time depending on the materials used — anywhere from a few hours toa few days. Follow any specific instructions your plumber provides about the curing time of the materials used and when it’s safe to resume regular use of the shower. Elevate Your Shower Experience with a Valve Replacement Whether you choose the DIY route or hire a professional plumber, you’re invesing in your home’s comfort and functionality. No more cringing at the sound of a dripping faucet or bracing yourself for an icy or scalding surprise in the shower. In the world of home ownership, this change may be for the better. So, savor the feeling of that warm, steady stream of water and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. |
AuthorJason Gelios is a Husband and Father. After that, a Top Producing REALTOR®, Author of the books 'Think like a REALTOR®' and 'Beating The Force Of Average', Creator of The AskJasonGelios Real Estate Show and Expert Media Contributor to media outlets across the country. Archives
July 2025
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