Waterless Urinals

Design and technical improvements make the new generation of waterless urinals well worth considering when looking for ways to save water. Maintenance is much easier on these latest models, and advances have made them more hygienic and odor-free. Pretty spiffy, really.

Besides saving water, a big benefit of waterless urinals are the associated costs - they're cheaper to buy than flush urinals and, with no moving parts to break or leak, they are cheaper to maintain. Plus, there are no water costs involved to operate. There are also energy savings overall in that the water saved didn't need to be pumped, piped or treated.

Given all those benefits, it is still the water savings that is driving increases in the installation of waterless urinals.

"According to a report for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, a waterless urinal saves one to three gallons of fresh water per flush, compared with a normal model. Take a big office building or university campus with 10,000 men in it, peeing several times daily. That represents a savings of nearly 16 million gallons a year." (cited in Passing Water Without the Water: Waterless Urinals Save H2O, Dollars)

Now there are not any locations in our service area that big, but one to three gallons a flush times however many times the conventional urinals around here do get flushed adds up big time.

Last fall the City of Los Angeles approved waterless urinals for all of its buildings, specifying the H2Zero Waterless Urinal from Caroma.

The H2Zero’s unique patented cartridge technology does not use an oil-based seal, as traditionally used in waterless urinals. Within the cartridge is a Bio Fresh deodorizing block that is activated during use. The Bio Seal™ allows urine to pass through the seal freely, eliminating unnecessary waste build-up within the cartridge. The Bio Seal, which lasts up to 10,000 uses, also acts as a one-way airtight valve to seal the cartridge from the drainage system.

As urine flows into the cartridge and around the Bio Fresh deodorizing block, heat from the urine activates the block, which emits a lemon fragrance. The urine then flows through the Bio Seal valve and into the drain line. The Bio Seal closes, protecting against back-pressure situations, ensuring good hygiene.

“For more than three decades, Caroma has been a leader in designing advanced technology for the bathroom, and the H2Zero waterless urinal is one example,” states John Karas, North America Product Manager. “The H2Zero can save the City of Los Angeles millions of gallons of water per year through replacing older, water-consuming one gallon urinals. In addition, the unique technology in the H2Zero minimizes service required and manages odors and waste build-up, unlike other waterless urinals currently on the market.”

To service the urinal, the H2Zero’s cartridge tool is used to remove the grate and access the internal components. The Bio Fresh deodorizer and Bio Seal can then be removed and replaced as required. This touch-free tool ensures no direct contact with the replacement components, and no special disposal method is required.

It's a little surprising given all the interest in these new and improved fixtures that less than 1% of urinals now in use are the waterless variety. So lots of opportunity for water saving.

For more information on the H2Zero and other Caroma high efficiency products, email info@caromausa.com or visit www.caromausa.com.

To find out about rebates available in Sonoma Valley for purchase and installation of high efficiency urinals, visit www.vomwd.com or www.sonomacity.org.

You can also read more at this waterless urinals link.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Amazing Video of Water Drop at 2000 Frames per Second

Despite water's very simple atomic structure, it exhibits some amazing properties.

"This structure consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom. The nature of the atomic structure of water causes its molecules to have unique electrochemical properties. The hydrogen side of the water molecule has a slight positive charge. On the other side of the molecule a negative charge exists. This molecular polarity causes water to be a powerful solvent and is responsible for its strong surface tension."

For a somewhat less technical explanation and a very cool demonstration of some of water's almost amazing properties, check out this video...




For more about the physical properties of water see www.physicalgeography.net.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Protect Yourself from Frozen Pipes

Each year around this time we post some information about protecting your plumbing in cold weather. Well, it seems this year's cold snap caught us all by surprise. For the last two days the guys have been running around fixing burst pipes all over Sonoma Valley. Even few of our customers in Napa got dinged by this week's weather.

Sorry for the delay - but here's our advice from the last couple of years - just a tad late.

Tip: Always do this before 8 p.m. the night a freeze is forecast. Otherwise Friedman's will be closed, and you'll be running around looking for MacGyver tape and old blankets. It will be cold and dark, and you will get annoyed with yourself. You might even kick the dog. And we can't have any of that.

So before you get all caught up in holiday hoopla, set aside time to assess the state of your outdoor pipes. Check existing insulation and replace any damaged or missing bits. Cover any pipes that haven't yet been insulated. Go ahead and put away your garden hoses for the winter and cover outdoor hose bibbs. There are inexpensive insulated foam covers available that just screw on over the faucet.

If you happen to have a valve that shuts off water to your outside faucets, you can easily shut down all of them at once. Then open the faucets outside to allow any water in the pipe to drip out.

Important: Don't forget your pool or hot tub. While you might very well leave the water in your pool or spa through the winter months, there may be plumbing leading to it that should be insulated. Check it out - just to be sure.

It's been COLD in Sonoma Valley for a few too many days now, and the weather services are predicting another sub-freezing night tonight. Given the prolonged cold snap, it's even more important that you guard your exposed pipes from these ice-inducing temperatures.

Here are a few steps to take to keep your pipes from freezing:

• Keep a trickle of water running from the faucets.
• Beam a heat lamp or small heater at exposed pipes.
• Wrap uninsulated pipes with newspapers, heating wires, foam, or self-adhesive insulating tape.
• Keep doors ajar between heated and unheated rooms.

What If Your Pipes Do Freeze?

A faucet that won't yield water is the first sign of frozen pipes. But even if pipes do freeze, you can thaw them before they burst if you act quickly.

If a pipe does freeze, shut off the water at the main shut-off valve and open the faucet nearest to the frozen pipe so it can drain as it thaws. Be sure to waterproof the area with containers and plastic drop clothes in case leaks occur. Then, use one of the following methods to gradually warm the frozen pipe. (Be sure to work from the faucet toward the iced-up area.)

• Propane Torch with a flame-spreading-nozzle: The torch will quickly thaw a frozen pipe. Safety Tip - Shield flammable areas with a fireproof sheet, don't let the pipe get too hot to touch.
• Hair Dryer: Used like the torch, a dryer will gently defrost the pipe.
• Heating Pad: Wrap a length of pipe with a heating pad.
• Heat Lamp: For pipes behind walls, floors, or ceilings, beam a heat lamp 8 or more inches from the surface.
• Hot Water: If no other method is available, wrap the pipe (except plastic) in rags and pour boiling water on it.

When loosening frozen connections, instead of using a wrench to force nuts and couplings frozen in place, douse the connection with penetrating oil. Wait half an hour; then loosen with a wrench.

Some of this helpful info comes by way of the All About Home website. Check it out.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Mold, Mildew and Fungus, oh my

Photo: Urban entropy (on Flickr) by Kyknoord

Don't let this happen to your home.

We know you wouldn't really. We're simply emphasizing a point: Left to their own devices, molds, mildew and fungus can eat your home alive.

Molds, mildews and fungus can be found on damp surfaces like bathroom walls, window trims, and other places where water accumulates or condensation collects. They are common microorganisms, essential to the continuation of life on earth, but when allowed to gain a foothold in some invisible or rarely visited nook or cranny of your home, watch out. They will digest your floorboards, cabinets or framing like they were old rotten logs in the forest.

And in confined places - like inside your house - some can lead to infections, allergies, asthma, and other breathing problems. Oh my.

Not all of these organisms are potentially toxic - and some are easier to clean up than others. If you find mold in your home, it might be best to consult with someone who is qualified and experienced in taking care of water damage and eradicating mold and mildew. And certainly if you have flood damage or discover a longstanding problem, call in an expert.

There are many types of molds, mildews and whatnot (oh my). They can look like black stains, or specks of black, white, orange, green, or brown. Take a tour of your home. Check for the following signs and symptoms:

• Leaks in your roof or plumbing. Any water that is trapped inside walls or under carpeting will cause molds to grow there. In not so obvious places, check to see if your walls or rugs have light stains or a strong musty smell.
• Mold in your basement. Rain or moisture can penetrate your home’s concrete foundation and make the bottom of carpets or inside of finished walls moldy.
• Dampness at the base of the walls.
• Rust at the base of steel posts or heaters.
• Stains, discoloration or decay on wood partitions, paneling, drywall and wood posts.
• White powdery substance on the concrete.
• Peeling floor tiles.
• Mildewed carpeting.

Make any necessary repairs to stop leaks if you find them. If you find mold and decide to clean it up yourself, you must be thorough. These organisms can be quite persistent and will begin to grow again if given half a chance. Multiple cleanings might be necessary, or you might have to remove the affected material completely.

Common places where mold, mildew and fungi thrive include:

• Paper covering of gypsum wall board
• Wallpaper
• Cellulose based ceiling tiles
• Paper products
• Carpets with natural fibers
• Paper covering on insulated pipes
• Insulation material
• Wood and wood paneling
• General organic debris
• Paper covering on fiberglass insulation

There are a number of steps and precautions you can take to safeguard against mold and mildew ever getting a foothold.

• Always keep your home as dry as possible.
• Do not wait to make repairs on your roof and plumbing leaks.
• Using a sump pump is the best device to keep water out of your basement.
• Use a fan to circulate basement air.
• Use a DEhumidifier (thanks anonymous reader) to remove excess moisture in the air.
• Do not keep wet clothing or materials around the house, use a dryer or clothesline to dry them.
• If your basement is damp, get a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.
• Never ignore the dangers and effects of mold. Call a reputable mold remediation company right away if you suspect a problem.

For more tips on preventing water damage in your home, see State Farm's advice at www.statefarm.com

:: Mold cleanup guidelines from the EPA
:: EPA guidelines for mold cleanup
:: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home from the EPA

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Got Questions about the Sonoma County Direct Install Program?

The Sonoma County Water Agency has recently expanded the Direct Install Program to include single-family homes. Woo hoo!!

That means if you are on municipal sewer and you have a toilet that uses more than 1.6 gallons per flush, you are eligible to have Boden Plumbing (or any other plumber participating in the program) install a new low flow toilet for you - at no charge. The County water agency pays the plumber directly for the toilet, seat, angle stop and the cost of installation. Good deal for you for sure. Plus, there is no limit on the number of toilets we can replace for you - they just all have to be clunkers.

It is important to mention that if there are any associated repairs necessary in changing out your toilet -- say we find a damaged floor, for instance -- you would be responsible for those additional costs. In our experience, these instances have been quite rare.

Also, we offer certain toilets under the Direct Install Program. If you decide you prefer something else, upgrade charges may apply. (We guarantee all the toilets we install, so don't worry that the toilets we're installing under the Direct Install Program are not up to our usual standards. It's just that you might choose something different.)

Our process is to schedule a site visit to determine your eligibility and to evaluate what type of toilet will work for you. Then we can schedule your new toilet install.

And your old toilet will be pushing up daisies - or petunias.

***

Got questions? Call us here at the office (707 996 8683) or visit Sonoma County Water Agency Direct Install Program on the web. The answers are out there.


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Water Saving Tips Galore

There are at least 101 ways to conserve water. Really, there are.

Here are 10 for starters:

#1
Monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.

#2
When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.

#3
Some refrigerators, air conditioners and ice-makers are cooled with wasted flows of water. Consider upgrading with air-cooled appliances for significant water savings.

#4
Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.

#5
Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.

#6
Choose shrubs and groundcovers instead of turf for hard-to-water areas such as steep slopes and isolated strips.

#7
Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.

#8
Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.

#9
Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.

#10
For cold drinks keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.

The 10 tips listed above come courtesy of Water Use it Wisely. There are lots of great resources on their site - check it out.


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Earthquake Awareness for CaliforniaOctober 15, 2009

One week from today, on October 15th at 10:15 a.m., Californians will practice for the next big earthquake.

The Great California Shakeout - as the planned event is being called - is expected to be the biggest earthquake drill ever. Are you ready for the next big earthquake?















(Photo credit: USGS)
Loma Prieta, California, Earthquake October 17, 1989. San Francisco. An automobile lies crushed under the third story of this apartment building in the Marina District. The ground levels are no longer visible because of structural failure and sinking due to liquefaction.

Twenty years ago this month, on October 17th, 1989, the Loma Prieta quake struck Northern California. (See: 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake on wikipedia.) All the attention sure to be paid to that special anniversary will help to underscore the message from the Shakeout: It's important to be prepared for earthquakes.

Check the Shakeout website for activities near you. You will also find resources, like earthquake drill manuals, that will help you plan and prepare for an earthquake emergency.

At Boden Plumbing we think it's a good move to have a gas shut-off valve installed at your home or business. One of the biggest dangers during and immediately after a quake comes from fire as a result of ruptured gas lines. You can read more about gas shut-off valves (sometimes referred to as earthquake valves) in our previous post Shaken But Not Stirred? And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to call us here at the office. (707 996 8683 or 866 NO DRIPS) We'd be happy to tell you more.

And remember the Shakeout on October 15, 2009. It is good to be prepared.


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

"Tell Us Your Best Toilet Story" contest

The people at American Standard have heard so many toilet stories over the years, they were inspired to sponsor a contest to find the best. They're taking submissions - until October 9th - on Facebook.

Apparently lots of people have stories involving cats and toilets, and there have been more than a few that have been, well...OTT as they say.

Perhaps you have a funny story to share? Remember, it's potty humor. It can be kinda gross and borderline tasteless and still be funny.

To submit your story, or read other people's stories, visit facebook.com/AmericanStandardBrands

You can also read the write-up on the contest in the NY Times: A Fixture on the Literary Scene



Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Urine could be the new power source

There's a new story circulating on the web that's kind of along the lines of the Space Plumber post we ran a few months back and also reminds us of Dune, one of the books on our reading list.

Forget gas, batteries - pee is new power source:
"Urine-powered cars, homes and personal electronic devices could be available in six months with new technology developed by scientists from Ohio University."

Wow, that would be amazing - and talk about a continuous fuel source. Of course there could be times when supplies would be reduced to a trickle. Hmmmm....but then imagine what that could do for the beer and coffee markets.

The solutions are out there.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Boden Plumbing Joins GreenPlumbers USA

It's official. Boden Plumbing is now a member of GreenPlumbers. We have been enjoying their courses and taking advantage of the great resources they make available for awhile now, but we recently took the extra step and became a member.

We've made a commitment to always look for the 'green' or sustainable option - both in how we operate as a company and in the products and services we offer to our customers. Joining forces with other plumbers doing the same is an important part of demonstrating that commitment.

If you have any questions, there are a number of posts on this blog in the Green Plumbing category that you can read. Or feel free to call the office (707 996 8683). We'd be glad to help you out.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Boden Plumbing Now Offers Laundry Pure

We told you about it a few years ago - the super nifty space-age gizmo you attach to your existing washing machine that allows you to wash everything without hot water and without detergent. It's called Laundry Pure. You can read what we said about it here.









Terry was so taken with the idea - being a green-minded plumber and all - that he installed one at his house and has been using it ever since.

He's sold on it and thinks a lot of his customers might be interested in it as well, so Boden Plumbing now offers Laundry Pure appliances to our customers.

It's incredibly simple and yet takes advantage of advanced technology that was actually developed by NASA for space travel. We think cutting back on energy use by reducing hot water demand and doing away with detergents are good things - for the pocket book and the planet.

If you'd like more information you can call the office or ask the technician at your next service call. Also, below is a video that gives a bit of an overview. It's important to note that in the video the presenter mentions a price that is no longer accurate. Check with us for discount pricing.

YouTube video about Laundry Pure


***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

The Airplane Toilet Paper Experiment

This is pretty silly but also strangely reassuring. When people dream up - and then go to the trouble of carrying out - such goofy escapades, you know there's hope for the world.

Enjoy.



***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Free Toilets Available for Businesses in Sonoma

If you own a commercial property in Sonoma Valley and are on either public water or sewer, you are eligible to participate in the County's new Direct Install Program for low flow toilet fixtures.

Good deal all around. The County saves money in the long run by reducing water use and load on the sewer system, and you finally get those old water hungry fixtures out of your place.

This is not a rebate program. You are not required to pay any money up front for the toilet, seat, new angle stop or the standard installation. It is important to note that if there are any associated repairs or upgrades necessary when changing out your toilet, there could be charges not covered by the County, but so far we have found those cases to be rare. So in general, you will be able to change out your non low flow toilet fixtures - at no charge. That is a good deal.

If we haven't already visited your shop or office to ask if you would like to participate, contact us today and find out if you qualify for a new low flow toilet. (707 996 8683 or info@nodrips.com)

Sometimes good things do come to those who wait!

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Wonder What Could Be Lurking in Your Sewer?

Mysterious sewer-dwelling creatures filmed in North Carolina sewer pipes... Who knew what strange and gruesome life forms lurked below?!





Bryozoans or tubifex worms -- there seems to be some debate about what exactly is pictured in the video. You can read a bit more about that in the Guardian article Down in the sewer, there's creature discomfort.

In Paris, where part of the sewer system has actually been turned into a museum, you can take tours of the underground tunnel system. (See: Paris Sewers) Hmmmm, could be quite an adventure.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Dyno-MO! Plumber Rescues Puppy from Sewer

We all know that plumbers are "Protecting the Health of the Nation", but in England they're protecting the health of their dogs as well it seems.

If you haven't heard the story, a four-year-old boy living near London managed to flush a 1-week-old puppy down a toilet. Apparently he was trying to wash the dog. The fire department was called. The SPCA was called. All to no avail.

Then they called Dyno-Rod, a local plumbing service. The plumber arrived with a camera that is normally used to inspect sewer lines and located the puppy -- still alive but situated out of reach between two access points. He then used the camera equipment to nudge the puppy along the pipe to the nearest manhole where a fireman was waiting to retrieve him.

A veterinarian pronounced the puppy none the worse for the experience, and the little boy now knows not to flush puppies down the 'loo'. (And he's very sorry.) So a happy ending.

You can watch the video here:



Here at Boden Plumbing we have the same kind of cameras, but we've never been called on to rescue anyone or anything with them. (knock on wood) We have used them to solve a lot of plumbing mysteries without too much digging or scratching of the head.

***

Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Why Not Join the 'No Drips' Club?

Boden Plumbing has had service agreements with customers for quite some time, but we have recently revamped our program. We think of it now as our customer assurance plan, and we've also dubbed it 'The No Drips Club'.

Our “No Drips Club” is a members-only service plan that is limited to 25% of our customers. (We would be unable to offer this to everyone as we couldn’t possibly keep up with all the work.) We recommend it to our customers who really love their homes and want the best protection
available.

We believe that our program offers unparalleled service and security for your home’s plumbing - and for a fee of just $12.95 a month. Benefits of membership include:

Complimentary home inspection
Club members are entitled to services normally valued at $300 as part of a once-yearly home inspection. During your inspection, our tech performs scheduled services and makes any required plumbing system adjustments, including connected equipment. Here’s a selection of the services you'll receive:

• All your toilets are checked and tested for leaks and smooth operation. New flappers are installed if necessary and any needed adjustments are performed at no charge
• All of your exposed water lines are checked for any damage.
• All of the piping under your bathroom and kitchen sinks is checked for any sign of leaks.
• Our inspection includes a complete home water audit, with recommendations on saving water and money.
• All of your sink drains are checked for signs of clogs.
• Your washing machine hoses and valves are checked and thoroughly tested.
• Your water heater is checked for safety, leaks, and signs of corrosion. We’ll even flush your water heater while we’re there, which helps to maximize the life span of the tank.
• If there is access to your main sewer line, we will video inspect your line—an excellent way to nip potential problems in the bud.
• The water pressure at your home is checked to make sure you’re not risking damage to all of your water-using appliances and fixtures.
• Your gas meter is checked for earthquake preparedness and leaks.
• Any concerns or questions you have about your home’s plumbing will be gladly answered.

VIP Service
As a member of “The No Drips Club”, you’ll go to the front of the line and the top of our appointment book if you ever need plumbing service.

Preferred Service Rate
As a member of “The No Drips Club”, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of members only specials throughout the year. You will also receive 5% off fixture installs and 10% off service work.

The Best Guarantee Available
When you are an active member of “The No Drips Club”, we extend our standard one-year parts and labor warranty on most repairs to two years. Warranties on the fixtures we supply and install, as well as our warranties on certain major installations, already range from 4 to 10 years.
(See your service invoice for details.)

Receive a Credit after 1st Two Years
For the first 24 months of your membership, 50% of your monthly dues are accumulated and credited towards any future service or product you purchase. That means, when you have been a member for 2 years, you have over $150 to spend on a new faucet, water heater, or plumbing service of your choice—in addition to the previous four benefits. We're trying to make it easier for everyone to give good service a try.

You can ask your service technician to sign you up—or call us here at the office (996 8683). We’re here to help! And we also have a brochure on hand that describes the program and includes a handy sign-up form. We'd be happy to mail you a copy - just let us know.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Regarding our main website...

May 20th - Update
Okey dokey. We're good to go. Got the all clear, and we're back up. Whew!

May 19th
If you have searched for "Boden Plumbing" through Google or tried to log onto our main website (www.nodrips.com) from a Google toolbar during the past two days, you probably got a warning that the site you were trying to view may be dangerous to your computer system.

Yesterday Google let us know that our website had been corrupted by some nefarious code, put there by creepy hackin' spammers no doubt. They call it malware. We immediately did what was necessary to clean up and reload our web pages and are now waiting for Google to review the site and give us the all clear.

Thank you for your patience and understanding while we get our web act together.

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Boden Plumbing Supports VOM Teen Center

As a locally owned and operated company, it's important to us at Boden Plumbing that we're an active part of our community and contribute where we can. We try to do that in a number of ways, one of which is by supporting local non-profits. It seems to us that we can magnify our contribution by giving to those who are already working hard.

One of our favorite non-profits here in Sonoma Valley is the Valley of the Moon Teen Center. Recently we provided soccer balls and a few safety cones, and we're glad to see the boys are putting them to good use and are having some fun. If you're looking to give some support to a worthy cause, we encourage you to consider the Teen Center, too.

According to their website, the Valley of the Moon Teen Center is conducting a drive to increase its Board and committee members. As part of its ongoing plan to increase services and programming for all teens in Sonoma Valley, the VOMTC Board is looking for additional members to participate in its efforts. “Our plans have outgrown our current board and we are looking for individuals that share our same passion for empowering the youth of our Valley,” says Board President Osias Encarnacion.

Interested community members can contact Osias Encarnacion directly at 939-6709 or by email at Osias@Hyderoad.com.

Valley of the Moon Teen Center is a tax exempt 501c.3 non-profit organization seeking to provide a safe and friendly environment where teens can develop self confidence through encouragement of their potential for becoming productive citizens in society.

The Teen Center is open 3pm-7pm, Monday through Friday, with extended hours for scheduled events. A complete list of programs and services can be found on their website at www.vomteencenter.org.

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Boden Plumbing is Raising Money for Muscular Dystrophy

I'm proud to tell you that I'm being locked up...that's right, I'm going behind bars to help Jerry's Kids© and MDA. To be released on good behavior, I have to raise bail and I need your help!

All you have to do is click here to make a secure, online donation before 05/19/09. Your donation will help families living in our community and help guarantee me an early release. I can't wait to add you to my list of contributors.

Thanks in advance for your help. Don't hesitate to call or email me with any questions.

Together we'll make a difference,
Terry

P.S. I'm counting on you, click here to donate.

If the link above does not work, please cut and paste the address below into the address bar of your Internet browser. https://www.joinmda.org/sonoma09/bscruffy/



Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Gray Water Options in Sonoma County

While our dogs (and some cats) will on occasion drink out of the toilet, it's not something people tend to do. Which does make you wonder why we use fresh potable water to fill and flush the bowl.

Something else well worth thinking about is why that same drinking water when used at the kitchen sink or in the shower is only used once.

It's not like we have an unlimited supply of the stuff.

According to a recent report in the Los Angeles Times, "Widespread recycling of gray water could cut residential water use by 16%, according to one estimate." That's not an insignificant amount of water savings.

The article goes on to say that, "During a prolonged drought in the early 1990s, L.A.'s Department of Water and Power and Department of Public Works conducted an ambitious experiment. In eight homes, including those of several elected officials, they installed "gray water" equipment that diverted the outflows from washing machines, showers, bathtubs and bathroom sinks to irrigate lawns and gardens outside the homes.

"Participants in the program were happy with the results, and the test was officially proclaimed successful in a 21-page research report that found the installations reduced water consumption by about 50% per household on average. No human disease pathogens were found in the outside drainage areas."

That was then, what about now? California is facing another set of drought years, and demand for water has only increased since the early 1990s. And yet gray water systems don't seem any more common now than they were before Los Angeles conducted their study.

It's the regulations. State health and housing officials were asked in 1992 to come up with regulations and permitting requirements to allow for installation of gray water systems. Unfortunately, what resulted is so impractical and expensive that few legally permitted gray water systems have been built. Appendix G of the state plumbing code requires that gray water systems get costly permits, have extensive filtering systems and that they be installed 9 inches underground -- too deep to irrigate most plantings. It seems that concerns about groundwater pollution and disease transmission are what drove the restrictive requirements.

Bottom line for Sonoma County? Aside from rainwater catchment and storage, recycling water at home is limited to capturing your shower, tub and washing machine outflow for use as outside irrigation water -- when the underground distribution system is well below grade. No above ground watering.

Fortunately, State officials are taking another look at the California gray water regulations. More information on possible changes should be available in June. Arizona, Texas, New Mexico and Montana are already ahead of us on this one. Maybe we can learn something from their example.

Contact us here at Boden Plumbing with questions. (info@nodrips.com or 996-8683) We've recently learned about a new gray water recycling system out of Canada that looks promising --- although we haven't tried it ourselves yet. It routes gray water from shower, tub and laundry to a holding tank and then feeds it back into the system to flush toilets. It's called Brac Systems. You might want to check it out.

:: Info on graywater
:: California Graywater Guide
:: more info on graywater and ecological design
:: NRDC Onearth article



***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Boden Plumbing a BEA Certified Green Business

Boden Plumbing recently completed the review process for certification by Sonoma County's Business Environmental Alliance, and now it's official -- Boden Plumbing is a certified green business in Sonoma County.

When it comes to environmental responsibility, Terry Boden thought it was important to demonstrate the same smart choices in his business that he encourages his customers to make. The Business Environmental Alliance green certification process helped us to formalize practices we have been incorporating over time - and it also pushed us to make even more improvements.

Here at Boden Plumbing we will continue to look for new ways to save energy and resources. If you're looking for ideas yourself, give us a call. We'd be glad to tell you what we've learned.

What we're liking lately:
> hot water recirculation pumps
> Vertex power vent hot water heaters
> the Sonoma County Energy Independence loan program
> federal tax credit for energy efficiency upgrades

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Direct Install Program Coming Soon to Sonoma County

If you own a commercial property in Sonoma County and are on either public water or sewer, you will soon be eligible to participate in the County's new Direct Install Program for low flow toilet fixtures.

Final details are still being worked out, but when everything is in place, you will be able to change out your non low flow toilet fixtures - at no charge.

Good deal all around. The County saves money in the long run by reducing water use and load on the sewer system, and you finally get those old water hungry fixtures out of your place.

Apparently even apartment units and mobile home parks will qualify as commercial as long as there are three or more units on a single meter.

And remember, this is not a rebate program. You are not required to pay any money up front. Instead the County deals directly with the plumbers that have agreed to participate - and Boden Plumbing is one of those plumbing shops participating.

So watch for more announcements or a notice in the mail from your utility company. Sometimes good things do come to those who wait!

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Loans for Energy Efficiency Upgrades Available in Sonoma County

Sometimes you have to spend money to save money and sometimes you have to spend a little money to save energy. Fortunately, when we save energy we're saving money too. It's a win-win.

This week the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors made it a little easier for County residents and business owners to spend the money necessary to make improvements in the energy efficiency of their homes and businesses.

Starting as early as today, property owners will be able to borrow money from the County at 7% and pay it back in installments on their property tax. If the property is sold, the new owners become responsible for the repayment.

The loans are available for energy-saving improvements such as solar and voltaic units, solar thermal devices, tankless water heaters, energy-efficient windows, and attic and wall insulation. Certain water-conserving upgrades - such as low-flow toilets - also qualify. So don't limit your thinking here!

To find out more, call 521-6200 or visit www.sonomacountyenergy.org

The minimum loan amount is $2,500. If you have a few small improvements in mind, take the time to plan them together in order to take advantage of this opportunity. The good news is that you can combine this program with other energy saving incentives - like the $1500 Federal tax credit we told you about earlier this month - and really put a dent in the energy consumption at your home or business, saving you money in the long run - and banking major brownie points in eco-heaven!

Saving energy - it's a good thing no matter how you look at it.

:: Sonoma County to launch energy-efficiency loans this week from the PD

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

ATTENTION Boden Plumbing Customers!

I Want To Pay You
...for 30% of Your
New Water Heater

Purchase any qualifying energy-saving water heater from BODEN PLUMBING and get reimbursed from the government for 30% of the cost of your new water heater. You'll save energy PLUS up to $1500 in taxes.

Why Not Let Your Uncle Sam Pay for Part of Your New Water Heater?

Thanks to the recent government economic stimulus program, you can get back 30% of your investment when you buy a qualifying hot water heater in 2009.

It’s not a tax deduction, it's a tax credit - which means real cash in your pocket. For example, if you spend $1,000 on qualifying upgrades, you will receive a $333 credit. Your tax bill will be that much lower.

Call us today and ask how you can take advantage of this time-sensitive incentive. After all, it’s not every day that Uncle Sam wants to put money in your pocket!

For more information, visit these websites -
:: www.energystar.gov.
:: www.energytaxincentives.org

***

Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

100 Ways to Save Water

Visit the Water Use it Wisely website for a list of 100 ways to conserve water. And then come up with another idea of your own!

Why Save Water?

• About 65% of indoor home water use occurs in our bathrooms. Toilets are the single greatest water user.

• UNESCO has predicted that by 2020 water shortage will be a serious worldwide problem.

• Did you know that in the United States, the average person uses 80-100 gallons of fresh water a day? (source: USGS)

• In your house check for leaks from faucets and pipes; even the smallest drip can waste as much as 75 liters a day (about 20 gallons).

• Almost 80% of the earth's surface is covered in water. Of this, 97% is salt water, 2% is glacial ice. That leaves less than 1% as fresh water for us to use.

• The human body is about 70% water; we cannot survive more than a week without water.

• A mere 10% of our home water supply is used in the kitchen and as drinking water.

• Indoor water use peaks twice a day year-round, in the mornings and evenings.

• The biggest peaks during the year occur in the summer, when about half to three quarters of all municipally treated water is sprayed onto lawns.

• As a community grows, the water use grows even faster because the diversity of water uses increases with size.

Source: Environment Canada (via Brac Systems website)

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Water Wisdom Workshop in SonomaSaturday, Feb. 21, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Don't worry about the drought - get informed!

There are things we all can do to use water more efficiently and reduce demand. To find out just what, attend the Water Wisdom Workshop this Saturday at the Veteran's Memorial Building in Sonoma. Boden Plumbing will be there with information on hand about the various water-saving fixtures and strategies available. Come with questions! Expect to go home with a lot of good info for the long dry summer ahead.

The event is free and open to the community. The Veteran’s Memorial Building is located at 126 First St. W. , one block north of Sonoma Plaza.

Saturday's event is organized and sponsored in part by the City of Sonoma, Valley of the Moon Water District, Sonoma Ecology Center, Napa Resource Conservation District, and Southern Sonoma County Resource Conservation District. The stated purpose of the event is to educate Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley residents on the importance of conserving water.

Besides the featured speakers, vendors will also be on hand with displays water products, new innovations, and good information on using water efficiently and coping with impending rationing. Vendors have been encouraged to send bilingual representatives, so encourage everyone you know to take some time out Saturday to stop by the Veterans building. Language differences should not be a barrier to saving water!

The following is the speaker schedule for the event:

• 10:00 Water in Sonoma County: its journey to and from your home, Brian Michelson, SCWA
• 10:30 Rebates to Assist You in Becoming More Water Efficient, Carrie Pollard, SCWA
• 10:40 Sonoma County Greywater Regulations Dewayne Starnes, County of Sonoma, PRMD
• 11:20 City of Sonoma Greywater Regulation Joe Burroughs, City of Sonoma
• 11:40 Landscaping with Natives Mark Newhouser, Sonoma Ecology Center
• 12:30 Drip Irrigation for Your Home Garden Joel Grogan, Sonoma Ecology Center, QWEL Certified
• 12:50 Water Wise Plants, Sonoma County Master Gardeners
• 1:10 Your Watershed is a Changing Climate, Lisa Micheli, Sonoma Ecology Center
• 1:30 Low Impact Development with a stormwater focus, Jack Betourne, Napa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District
• 1:50 City of Napa Water Conservation Program, Pat Costello, City of Napa

We look forward to meeting you on Saturday. See you there!

***


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Sonoma! On Sunny Days Do a Rain Dance

along with John, Paul, George and Ringo...



or with Creedence Clearwater Revival. Your choice!



***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Day of Reckoning on Water UseApproaches for Sonoma County

Suddenly we're all wondering how to cut back 30% on our water usage.

Suddenly? Around here it's like talking about the Big One - the earth shattering earthquake that we all know will strike someday. We talk about it, then forget about it, and never prepare ourselves for the inevitable.

Well, the water story in California is the same. We all know the reality of the climate - and we all know how much the Bay Area has grown over the past twenty or thirty years. At some point the water supply and water demand lines were going to cross and then start heading in opposing directions. Probably just needed a drought year to tip the balance.

OK, so we've all been put on notice. So what do we do now?

First and foremost - stop the leaks
You’d be surprised how much water goes down the drain as a result of leaking faucets and connections or running toilets. If you need the cold hard facts, visit this USGS website to find out just how much one leaky faucet can set back your water budget. Check it out.

Also, it’s a good idea to have a separate shut-off for your irrigation system so that if leaks develop outside – and they often do – you can shut your system down until repairs can be made without affecting the house supply.

Replace your old water-hungry toilet
The toilet is certainly the largest water user inside your house, so take advantage of the Sonoma County Water Agency’s rebate program and replace any old non low flow toilets. The water agency will reimburse Sonoma Valley County Sanitation District customers (sewer customers, not septic users) $150 for each high-efficiency toilet installed when you are replacing an old non low flow model. Not bad!

...and water-hungry clothes washer
Did you know that front loading clothes washers (also called horizontal axis machines) cut water use by nearly 40 percent. A typical top-loading machine uses about 40 gallons of water for each full load. In comparison, a front loading clothes washer uses only 20 to 25 gallons. You do the math. Depending on how many loads you wash, you could save as much as 7,000 gallons of water per year.

In addition to the water savings, you also save the energy you would have used to heat that water. Plus, these appliances use less energy than conventional washers - approximately 50 percent less, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Not bad.

Rebates are also available for installing water efficient clothes washers; check with Valley of the Moon Water District (996-1037) or City of Sonoma (938-3681) for more info on what appliances qualify for rebate. On septic? You may still qualify for the same rebates if you are a Valley of the Moon Water District customer or get your water from the City of Sonoma. Check with your water supplier for details.

Consider a Hot Water Recirculation Pump
Are you running the tap waiting for the hot water to arrive? It's a big water waster, but what are ya' gonna do, right?

Wrong. A hot water recirculation system could be just the ticket.

Think about it. You may not run the hot water all day long while the family is away from home at work and school. During that time, heated water lays in the line cooling off. Then when you do get home - or up in the morning - and need the hot water, all that unused and now tepid water needs to be run through the line - and down the drain - before fresh hot water reaches the faucet.

It's goofy. Standard faucets and showerheads put out 2.2 - 2.5 gallons per minute. Even low flow fixtures will allow up to 1.6 gallons down the drain while you wait for hot water. That adds up.

With a recirculation system, water temperature is maintained in the line when you need it most. At Boden Plumbing, we like the Grundfos Comfort System. It's a straightforward install and easy to maintain. The pump attaches to your hot water heater and a small return valve is unobtrusively installed on the furthest faucet in the home. Since the existing lines are used, there's no added expense for additional lines. Then timers keep that hot water circulating in the pipes just when you need it most - saving time, energy, water. You name it.

Choose appropriate plants
Customers in our service area enjoy a Mediterranean climate, which means hot dry summers. With so many wonderful choices available, there's really no excuse for watering plants adapted to a different climate. Reducing turf area to a sensible minimum and growing plants best suited for your area automatically reduces your irrigation use.

...as long as you follow through and water less, that is
Duh! But you'd be surprised - you might even surprise yourself. Seriously, remember to adjust your watering schedule to match your new heat- and sun-loving landscape. Also, include plenty of hose bibs in your outside set-up for easy hand watering and spot watering.

Would you like more information? Visit www.h2ouse.org for more details on wise water use. Or e-mail us here at Boden Plumbing.


Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

Sonoma County Calls for Mandatory Water Rationing

The Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA) is set to announce on Monday, February 2, that 750,000 residents of the North Bay will be called on to cut back 30% on their water usage in the very near future. Cutbacks of 50% could be necessary later in the year if reservoir levels continue to decline.

A press conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, at Healdsburg Memorial Beach, 13839 Old Redwood Highway (near the fish ladder).

For more information, or to RSVP, contact Brad Sherwood, Public Information Officer of the SCWA at 707-547-1927.

***

Directions to News Conference at Healdsburg Memorial Beach

From San Francisco/Bay Area:
1) Take Highway 101 North towards Healdsburg
2) Take exit towards Healdsburg Avenue
3) Turn right onto Old Redwood Highway
4) Turn left into Healdsburg Memorial Beach

Follow the road through the parking lot to the Russian River. Parking will be available near the Russian River. The press conference will take place near the Russian River and fish ladder.

From Eureka/Northern California:
1) Take Highway 101 South towards Healdsburg
2) Take Westside Road exit toward Guerneville
3) Turn left onto Westside road
4) Stay straight to go onto Mill Street
5) Turn right onto Healdsburg Avenue/ Old Redwood Highway
6) Turn right into Healdsburg Memorial Beach

Follow the road through the parking lot to the Russian River. Parking will be available near the Russian River. The press conference will take place near the Russian River and fish ladder.



Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com

And the Winner is...

Congratulations Brian Weiner of Sonoma!

Brian and his family are the lucky winners of a free water heater (with installation, of course) from Boden Plumbing. His name was drawn from the pool of entrants by Daedalus Howell - on air as they say in the radio biz - this morning on The Morning Show with Ken Brown, on Sonoma's own KSVY 91.3 FM.

We're all very excited!

Last fall Terry Boden decided to celebrate 16 years in business in Sonoma Valley by offering everyone the chance to win a new water heater with installation. We e-mailed our contacts at the Sonoma Valley Chamber of Commerce to get the word out. We ran ads in the Sonoma Valley Sun. We've had sign-up information here on the blog and on our main website www.nodrips.com. And, for the past two weeks, Ken Brown has been talking up the drawing on his show.

And today was the day! Thanks to everyone who participated and to the good folks at Three House MultiMedia who made it possible to determine our winner in a public drawing.



Bookmark this on Delicious

***
Boden Plumbing primarily serves Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and the Petaluma area. We provide a full range of residential plumbing repairs and services.
866-663-7477
www.nodrips.com