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Start the New Year Right With These Relaxing Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Modern bathroom featuring a white bathtub and glass shower enclosure by The Meridian Company for home improvement.

Ideas for Upgrading a Bathroom 

The new year is a time for new beginnings, and what better way to commit to a better lifestyle with more relaxation than by giving the home bathroom a luxurious upgrade? After all, the bathroom is the one place at home where people wash their troubles and stresses away and emerge clean and refreshed, ready to start anew. So, if homeowners want to improve the bathroom experience, here are ideas to help achieve the soothing vibe that’ll help jump-start the new year. 

Get a New Showerhead

shower headOne of the best ways to give a bathroom an affordable upgrade is to swap out that old showerhead for a new one. There are a range of options to choose from, so there will be one that will address both a homeowner’s wants and needs in the shower. Some types of showerheads include: 

  • Handheld showerhead: This showerhead can be removed from its mounting and gives homeowners flexibility in bathing and cleaning, which is especially helpful for families with kids or pets.
  • Low-flow showerhead: These showerheads are best for water conservation and saving money. They don’t use as much water, but since the showerhead mixes air in with the water, it can still deliver good water pressure.
  • Rain showerhead: This showerhead can be mounted on the ceiling, but some models fit into existing wall mounts. They are typically wider than most showerheads and mimic the relaxing sensation of rain from above. 

Choose the Perfect Bathtub

bathtubBathtubs may not be as essential a bathroom fixture as a shower, but adding a bathtub to the bathroom is an effective way to create a more relaxing bathing experience at home. Not only are baths soothing, but they also have many health benefits. They are known to ease certain types of chronic pain, boost heart health, promote restful sleep, improve mood, and soothe irritated skin. 

While space is a consideration for adding or updating an existing tub, it shouldn’t stop homeowners from getting a bathtub when doing a bathroom remodel. Tight spaces can opt for a shower and tub combination with an alcove bathtub or another bathtub style. Those with more ample room have many options, such as a freestanding bathtub, which includes classic clawfoot bathtubs, a corner bathtub, a jetted bathtub, and a soaking bathtub. 

Elevate the Bathroom Aesthetic

When updating a bathroom, it’s important to keep in mind the desired style and make design choices based on that. Many things can be done to change the look of a bathroom, including upgrading fixtures like the bathroom faucet, bathroom sink, and even the toilet. 

Homeowners can also choose to change the bathroom tile, bathroom vanity, and paint color to change the look and feel of a bathroom significantly. Adding accessories and decor to the bathroom, including towel racks, mirrors, lighting, rugs, artwork, and plants, can also make a big difference in completing the desired look and aesthetic. 

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a local family-owned business serving Lansing, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide fast response, superior customer service, and financing. Call them today for bathroom remodeling services in Lansing, MI. 

Start Spring Cleaning With The Water Heater

Technician inspecting electrical panel with tools, emphasizing safety for home service maintenance by The Meridian Company.

Why Maintaining Your Water Heater Is So Important

When most people put together a list of spring cleaning tasks, they probably don’t put water heater maintenance anywhere near the top, if it even makes the list at all. But there are several reasons why homeowners may want to make this the first item on the list.

A lack of proper maintenance is the number one reason for water heater breakdowns and performance issues. In many cases, the unit may need to be replaced years before it is expected to, simply because it wasn’t adequately maintained. Yearly maintenance also has various other benefits and can usually be tackled in one afternoon. Homeowners should keep reading to learn why water heater maintenance might be their favorite part of spring cleaning!

water heater

Why Is Flushing a Water Heater Important?

Regularly flushing a water heater is important because it removes sediment buildup from inside the unit. Sediment buildup is caused by minerals in the water and is usually more common in areas with hard water. This buildup of sediment can cause problems for the homeowner.

Firstly, it forms a barrier between the heat exchanger and the water itself. The barrier causes the burners and heating elements to work harder and longer to heat the water to the correct temperature. This can lead to inconsistent temperatures, a lack of hot water, and increased utility costs. Sediment can also deteriorate the tank's inner lining, which can lead to corrosion and leaks, likely requiring a replacement of the water heater.

Even tankless water heaters must be flushed periodically, as mineral deposits can similarly interfere with heating performance and clog up the internal pipes. A yearly or twice-yearly water heater flush can save homeowners money and headaches in the long run.

What Else Is Involved In Water Heater Maintenance?

valves

The temperature & pressure relief valve needs to be tested to ensure it can properly vent the tank in case of overheating or overpressurization. The anode rod is a device that helps prevent tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements to it instead. It should be inspected annually and replaced around every 3-5 years. 

Gas burners and exhaust vents should be cleaned, the pilot light and thermocouple should be checked for proper function, electrical components should be tested for correct wattage, and the whole unit should be inspected for evidence of leaks. Some of these tasks should only be performed by a professional to ensure safety and avoid damaging the unit.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance?

Some key benefits of annual water heater maintenance include preventing the need for costly repairs, extending the unit’s life expectancy, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing overall performance. These benefits can result in significant savings on utilities, avoidable repairs, and premature water heater replacement.

An apt comparison to make is that of car maintenance. Things will start to break down and perform poorly without regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine service tasks. The same goes for water heaters. 

To take this analogy a step further, most folks can handle the basics of vehicle maintenance on their own, but when it comes to the more intensive jobs, it’s best to leave it to a mechanic - or in this case, a plumber. Fortunately, this only adds to the benefits as professionals can identify and resolve safety risks, address potential issues early, and optimize efficiency in ways that the untrained cannot. But whether taking the professional or DIY approach, water heater maintenance deserves the top spot on this year’s spring cleaning list.

About Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical

Meridian Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is a family-owned, local business that has served its neighbors in Lansing, East Lansing, and the surrounding areas for over 35 years. They provide full-service solutions, fast response, and superior customer service. Their highly trained technicians are available to help day or night, so call them today for water heater services in East Lansing, MI.