Home Improvement

(BPT) – Most of us are used to recycling at home, but specifically in the bathroom? Not so much. However, your bathroom is home to a number of recyclable products, from shampoo and mouthwash bottles to bandage and tissue boxes. With families as busy as they are, it’s no wonder bathroom recycling is far from top of mind. A recent survey done on behalf of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. found 60 percent of moms wish they remembered to recycle more.

The more you know about what’s recyclable, the easier it is to incorporate it into your daily routine. So, this Earth Day – and every day – care for the planet the way you care for your family by following these five simple and creative ways to recycle and reuse your empty bathroom products.

1. Get a bathroom recycling bin.

Sixty percent of moms report they would be more likely to recycle bathroom products if they had a recycling bin in the room. Head to CVS.com/caretorecycle to learn how to get a bathroom recycling binwith qualifying purchase from Care To Recycle, a program of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. that provides fun tips and tools to increase recycling of personal care products. With a handy bin nearby, you’ll never have to think twice about recycling in the bathroom.

2. Make your own recycling bin.

A majority of moms (75 percent) believe that showing their kids how to place recyclable products in the appropriate bin is a teachable moment – and there’s no reason why teachable moments can’t be décor-friendly! There are plenty of quick and easy DIY hacks, from using a wicker basket to decorating a plain trash bin with wrapping paper that matches your taste.

3. Involve your kids.

Seventy-four percent of moms agree that involving their kids in their to-do lists helps them get more done, and 61 percent would be more likely to recycle if their kids helped out. You can start by creating a recycling chart that rewards kids with fun, earth-friendly prizes like camping or picnics when they remember to recycle in the bathroom.

4. Get crafty.

For items that can’t be recycled, instead of tossing them, why not remake them into something special? The Care To Recycle Pinterest page has fun and beautiful upcycling projects, like creating luminaries out of moisturizer jars, vases out of makeup remover bottles, and much more!

5. Create friendly reminders.

Two out of three moms admit to taking on too much during the day, and 80 percent report that forgetting tasks is a normal part of being a busy parent. Try leaving a framed note on your bathroom counter, or task your kids with creating a creative poem to help remind you (and your family and guests) to recycle every day!

By following these five simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to making bathroom recycling part of your family’s daily routine – and helping to raise the next generation of recyclers. Whether it’s Earth Day or any day, programs like Care To Recycle can offer inspiration for fun, creative ways for the entire family to reuse or recycle your bathroom products. Visit www.caretorecycle.com for more ideas.

(BPT) – Most of us are used to recycling at home, but specifically in the bathroom? Not so much. However, your bathroom is home to a number of recyclable products, from shampoo and mouthwash bottles to bandage and tissue boxes. With families as busy as they are, it’s no wonder bathroom recycling is far from top of mind. A recent survey done on behalf of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. found 60 percent of moms wish they remembered to recycle more.

The more you know about what’s recyclable, the easier it is to incorporate it into your daily routine. So, this Earth Day – and every day – care for the planet the way you care for your family by following these five simple and creative ways to recycle and reuse your empty bathroom products.

1. Get a bathroom recycling bin.

Sixty percent of moms report they would be more likely to recycle bathroom products if they had a recycling bin in the room. Head to CVS.com/caretorecycle to learn how to get a bathroom recycling binwith qualifying purchase from Care To Recycle, a program of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. that provides fun tips and tools to increase recycling of personal care products. With a handy bin nearby, you’ll never have to think twice about recycling in the bathroom.

2. Make your own recycling bin.

A majority of moms (75 percent) believe that showing their kids how to place recyclable products in the appropriate bin is a teachable moment – and there’s no reason why teachable moments can’t be décor-friendly! There are plenty of quick and easy DIY hacks, from using a wicker basket to decorating a plain trash bin with wrapping paper that matches your taste.

3. Involve your kids.

Seventy-four percent of moms agree that involving their kids in their to-do lists helps them get more done, and 61 percent would be more likely to recycle if their kids helped out. You can start by creating a recycling chart that rewards kids with fun, earth-friendly prizes like camping or picnics when they remember to recycle in the bathroom.

4. Get crafty.

For items that can’t be recycled, instead of tossing them, why not remake them into something special? The Care To Recycle Pinterest page has fun and beautiful upcycling projects, like creating luminaries out of moisturizer jars, vases out of makeup remover bottles, and much more!

5. Create friendly reminders.

Two out of three moms admit to taking on too much during the day, and 80 percent report that forgetting tasks is a normal part of being a busy parent. Try leaving a framed note on your bathroom counter, or task your kids with creating a creative poem to help remind you (and your family and guests) to recycle every day!

By following these five simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to making bathroom recycling part of your family’s daily routine – and helping to raise the next generation of recyclers. Whether it’s Earth Day or any day, programs like Care To Recycle can offer inspiration for fun, creative ways for the entire family to reuse or recycle your bathroom products. Visit www.caretorecycle.com for more ideas.

(BPT) – With warm weather knocking at the door, it’s time to rejuvenate your space and rid the home of winter clutter. While it may be the perfect time of year for a refresh, it can be challenging to find exciting new ways to decorate. With top design trends in mind, here are four simple solutions to spring into a new look this season.

Mixed materials

To entertain the eye, coordinate mixed materials and beautiful textures in unexpected ways. From a warm Champagne Bronze finish juxtaposed against matte white tiles, to espresso-stained wood contrasted with clean marble, this trend is all about bringing the unexpected together to create a unified design aesthetic. Quick refreshes to any room can include accessories such as modern paintings or wall planters and potted succulents. These quick additions serve as simple ways to complement what is already in the room, eliminating the need for a full redesign.

Global inspiration

As an increasingly connected society, incorporating design inspiration from around the globe has become an ever-present trend that is sure to make an impact. Influenced by the most cosmopolitan cities around the world, the Pivotal single handle bath faucet serves as a beautiful centerpiece for the vanity. With clean lines and contemporary form, this collection is perfectly suited for all generations and all style preferences — from millennial to baby boomer. While simple in design, Pivotal makes a bold, modern statement with its sleek handles and angular spout. To further amplify the contemporary aesthetic, focus on simplicity by installing mirrored cabinets to store toiletries. For a more traditional look, pair a stainless faucet finish with warm cabinetry such as toasted almond oak.

Wallpaper wonder

For people who choose to rent instead of purchase, creating the warm, comfortable environment we all know and love can be a challenge. Removable wallpaper is a great way to implement a design refresh and make a temporary space feel like home. The beauty lies within the name — it’s removable! Intricate designs and lively patterns are now easily accessible; perfect for an accent wall that needs a pop of color. If you yearn for a new design, simply remove the existing paper and replace with a new pattern.

Bejeweled beauty

This spring, channel your inner artist and incorporate a sense of vibrancy into living spaces. Jeweled tones are experiencing a resurgence this year, proving there is no better way to energize a space than with a brilliant emerald green or a lively turquoise accent. If the idea of painting a room is too daunting, opt for smaller updates that bring a punch of color. Thrift stores are great places to find unique accessories or that perfect piece of furniture, such as an ottoman or tufted bench that can be re-covered with a rich magenta or sapphire blue fabric. These easy art projects serve as a great afternoon project that can refresh a neutral space.

(BPT) – With warm weather knocking at the door, it’s time to rejuvenate your space and rid the home of winter clutter. While it may be the perfect time of year for a refresh, it can be challenging to find exciting new ways to decorate. With top design trends in mind, here are four simple solutions to spring into a new look this season.

Mixed materials

To entertain the eye, coordinate mixed materials and beautiful textures in unexpected ways. From a warm Champagne Bronze finish juxtaposed against matte white tiles, to espresso-stained wood contrasted with clean marble, this trend is all about bringing the unexpected together to create a unified design aesthetic. Quick refreshes to any room can include accessories such as modern paintings or wall planters and potted succulents. These quick additions serve as simple ways to complement what is already in the room, eliminating the need for a full redesign.

Global inspiration

As an increasingly connected society, incorporating design inspiration from around the globe has become an ever-present trend that is sure to make an impact. Influenced by the most cosmopolitan cities around the world, the Pivotal single handle bath faucet serves as a beautiful centerpiece for the vanity. With clean lines and contemporary form, this collection is perfectly suited for all generations and all style preferences — from millennial to baby boomer. While simple in design, Pivotal makes a bold, modern statement with its sleek handles and angular spout. To further amplify the contemporary aesthetic, focus on simplicity by installing mirrored cabinets to store toiletries. For a more traditional look, pair a stainless faucet finish with warm cabinetry such as toasted almond oak.

Wallpaper wonder

For people who choose to rent instead of purchase, creating the warm, comfortable environment we all know and love can be a challenge. Removable wallpaper is a great way to implement a design refresh and make a temporary space feel like home. The beauty lies within the name — it’s removable! Intricate designs and lively patterns are now easily accessible; perfect for an accent wall that needs a pop of color. If you yearn for a new design, simply remove the existing paper and replace with a new pattern.

Bejeweled beauty

This spring, channel your inner artist and incorporate a sense of vibrancy into living spaces. Jeweled tones are experiencing a resurgence this year, proving there is no better way to energize a space than with a brilliant emerald green or a lively turquoise accent. If the idea of painting a room is too daunting, opt for smaller updates that bring a punch of color. Thrift stores are great places to find unique accessories or that perfect piece of furniture, such as an ottoman or tufted bench that can be re-covered with a rich magenta or sapphire blue fabric. These easy art projects serve as a great afternoon project that can refresh a neutral space.

(BPT) – The majority of Americans (74 percent) care about the environment, according to Pew Research. If you recycle regularly and have a programmable thermostat, you’re already doing something positive for the environment. But when it comes time to replace your heating, ventilation and cooling system, will you know how to make choices that protect your wallet and the environment?

Your home’s HVAC system accounts for about half of all the energy your home uses, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You can lower your utility bills by choosing an efficient HVAC system that uses less energy. A more efficient system can also reduce your home’s environmental impact. NPR reports that heating a home with natural gas produces about 6,400 pounds of carbon dioxide and about 4,700 pounds if you heat with electricity. Air conditioning can produce up to 6,600 pounds of CO2 if you live in a warm climate.

Many factors can affect how efficient your HVAC system is, and how it affects the environment both inside and outside your home. An inefficient system or an older one that’s no longer functioning at its best can cause uneven heating and cooling, make loud noise, create humidity and run in frequent stops and starts. All these factors can affect your home’s comfort level. If you’re experiencing these problems, it’s likely time to replace your furnace, air conditioner or possibly both.

The HVAC professionals at YORK Heating and Cooling offer some guidance on how to choose an energy-efficient system that’s also kind to the environment:

Learn about rating systems

Rating systems are intended to help consumers better understand what they’re getting when they make a purchase, and make more informed decisions about what to buy. When you’re evaluating the energy efficiency of an HVAC system, it’s important to understand these ratings and what they mean:

* SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) — SEER speaks to the efficiency of a system’s air-conditioning unit by measuring performance over a hypothetical cooling season. The ratio compares the amount of cooling provided by the AC unit (measured in British thermal units, or BTUs) with the amount of energy the central system consumes (measured in watts per hour). The size and installation of the equipment, and your energy use patterns, will determine the unit’s actual efficiency, but SEER can give you an idea of probable performance.

* AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) — AFUE measures heating efficiency for furnaces, boilers and water heaters. Manufacturers use AFUE to help them complete the federally required EnergyGuide label you’ll see on these appliances. The label gives an idea of how much energy the equipment will use, compares it to similar products, and approximates the annual operating costs. AFUE is also a factor in equipment qualifying for ENERGY STAR certification, which requires manufacturers to demonstrate their products are energy efficient.

* HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) — For electric heat pumps, energy efficiency is measured a bit differently. HSPF uses BTU information to calculate heat output divided by the total electricity the heat pump consumes during a heating season.

“For all three rating systems, the higher the number, the more energy efficient the equipment will be,” says Steve Hoffins, director of marketing with YORK Heating and Cooling. “Our newest home comfort system is our most efficient to date, largely in part due to its 20 SEER rating, which can reduce energy costs as much as 50 percent.”

Interested in winning one of YORK’s newest, most efficient home comfort systems to date? Effective March 21, 2017 to May 29, 2017, homeowners can enter to win a YORK Affinity Variable Capacity Residential System. Visit www.YORKGiveaway.com/AmericanQualityContest for more information about the contest.

Right-sizing your system

Many homeowners have no problem understanding a system that’s too small for their home won’t function efficiently or do its job well. However, purchasing a system that’s too large for your home can be just as bad. Systems that are too large waste energy and boost utility bills, create uneven temperatures, are poor at controlling humidity and can develop maintenance problems over time.

If you’ve never purchased an HVAC system component before, it can be difficult to know exactly how much power you need in a unit. Your local YORK contractor can help you decide the size and type of unit that’s right for your home and needs. Visit www.YORK.com to learn more about residential heating and cooling, and to find a local YORK contractor. You can also follow the company on Twitter at @YORKHVAC.

(BPT) – The majority of Americans (74 percent) care about the environment, according to Pew Research. If you recycle regularly and have a programmable thermostat, you’re already doing something positive for the environment. But when it comes time to replace your heating, ventilation and cooling system, will you know how to make choices that protect your wallet and the environment?

Your home’s HVAC system accounts for about half of all the energy your home uses, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You can lower your utility bills by choosing an efficient HVAC system that uses less energy. A more efficient system can also reduce your home’s environmental impact. NPR reports that heating a home with natural gas produces about 6,400 pounds of carbon dioxide and about 4,700 pounds if you heat with electricity. Air conditioning can produce up to 6,600 pounds of CO2 if you live in a warm climate.

Many factors can affect how efficient your HVAC system is, and how it affects the environment both inside and outside your home. An inefficient system or an older one that’s no longer functioning at its best can cause uneven heating and cooling, make loud noise, create humidity and run in frequent stops and starts. All these factors can affect your home’s comfort level. If you’re experiencing these problems, it’s likely time to replace your furnace, air conditioner or possibly both.

The HVAC professionals at YORK Heating and Cooling offer some guidance on how to choose an energy-efficient system that’s also kind to the environment:

Learn about rating systems

Rating systems are intended to help consumers better understand what they’re getting when they make a purchase, and make more informed decisions about what to buy. When you’re evaluating the energy efficiency of an HVAC system, it’s important to understand these ratings and what they mean:

* SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) — SEER speaks to the efficiency of a system’s air-conditioning unit by measuring performance over a hypothetical cooling season. The ratio compares the amount of cooling provided by the AC unit (measured in British thermal units, or BTUs) with the amount of energy the central system consumes (measured in watts per hour). The size and installation of the equipment, and your energy use patterns, will determine the unit’s actual efficiency, but SEER can give you an idea of probable performance.

* AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) — AFUE measures heating efficiency for furnaces, boilers and water heaters. Manufacturers use AFUE to help them complete the federally required EnergyGuide label you’ll see on these appliances. The label gives an idea of how much energy the equipment will use, compares it to similar products, and approximates the annual operating costs. AFUE is also a factor in equipment qualifying for ENERGY STAR certification, which requires manufacturers to demonstrate their products are energy efficient.

* HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) — For electric heat pumps, energy efficiency is measured a bit differently. HSPF uses BTU information to calculate heat output divided by the total electricity the heat pump consumes during a heating season.

“For all three rating systems, the higher the number, the more energy efficient the equipment will be,” says Steve Hoffins, director of marketing with YORK Heating and Cooling. “Our newest home comfort system is our most efficient to date, largely in part due to its 20 SEER rating, which can reduce energy costs as much as 50 percent.”

Interested in winning one of YORK’s newest, most efficient home comfort systems to date? Effective March 21, 2017 to May 29, 2017, homeowners can enter to win a YORK Affinity Variable Capacity Residential System. Visit www.YORKGiveaway.com/AmericanQualityContest for more information about the contest.

Right-sizing your system

Many homeowners have no problem understanding a system that’s too small for their home won’t function efficiently or do its job well. However, purchasing a system that’s too large for your home can be just as bad. Systems that are too large waste energy and boost utility bills, create uneven temperatures, are poor at controlling humidity and can develop maintenance problems over time.

If you’ve never purchased an HVAC system component before, it can be difficult to know exactly how much power you need in a unit. Your local YORK contractor can help you decide the size and type of unit that’s right for your home and needs. Visit www.YORK.com to learn more about residential heating and cooling, and to find a local YORK contractor. You can also follow the company on Twitter at @YORKHVAC.

(BPT) – With milder temperatures and longer days, it seems as though the last vestiges of winter are behind us. Yet, if you experienced high heating bills, or drafts and cold spots throughout your home, it could mean your home is not as energy efficien…

(BPT) – With milder temperatures and longer days, it seems as though the last vestiges of winter are behind us. Yet, if you experienced high heating bills, or drafts and cold spots throughout your home, it could mean your home is not as energy efficien…

(BPT) – For most of us, the idea of spring cleaning probably sounds refreshing after a winter of bundling up against the cold. Now that spring has arrived, it’s finally time to get started! Sprucing up your home doesn’t have to take lots of time, and i…

(BPT) – For most of us, the idea of spring cleaning probably sounds refreshing after a winter of bundling up against the cold. Now that spring has arrived, it’s finally time to get started! Sprucing up your home doesn’t have to take lots of time, and i…