Basement Plumbing, HVAC | The Basic Basement Co.

HVAC Systems – Factors That Impact Installing a Heat Pump vs. a Furnace

When considering home HVAC heating and cooling options, homeowners will find two popular choices - a heat pump system and a furnace heater - each with advantages and installation considerations. There are several factors that impact selecting a heat pump versus a furnace, including the higher up-front cost of a heat pump, higher energy costs to operate a furnace over time, lower maintenance costs for heat pumps, and heat pumps tend to have a longer lifespan than furnaces. Learn about heat pumps and furnaces and considerations that could impact which type of HVAC system you install.

The Basic Companies2023-10-04T21:21:42-04:00

How to Lower Humidity in a Home

High moisture levels in a home can lead to potentially serious health issues, including asthma, allergies, and various other respiratory illnesses that are triggered by mold, dust mites, peeling lead paint, and pests. If you’ve noticed water leaks or stains, rotting woods, musty odors, rusting or corrosion, and excessive condensation, understanding how to lower humidity in a house is crucial. Learn about ways to reduce high humidity levels.

The Basic Companies2023-08-28T22:46:36-04:00

How a Sustainable Kitchen Remodel Can Save You Money

According to the Remodeling 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, projects like a minor kitchen remodel can offer a return on investment of more than 85 percent. And choosing appliances, fixtures, and materials that are more sustainable and energy-efficient than the previous units can not only help the environment, but could also attract more buyers should you want to sell your home. For example, upgrading to a more efficient faucet and dishwasher can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of a kitchen, as well as help reduce household water use by 30 percent. Learn ideas for your upcoming basement kitchen or kitchenette installation and how to include sustainable material and fixtures that could yield energy and cost savings.

The Basic Companies2023-05-15T15:45:09-04:00

Walk-In Shower Ideas for Your Basement Remodeling Project

Adding a walk-in shower to your bathroom as part of a basement remodeling project can make a bathroom look bigger, make it more accessible, provide more flexibility for a bathroom design, and yield a higher return on investment. Get walk-in shower design ideas for your bathroom remodeling project.

The Basic Companies2023-05-16T20:43:58-04:00

How to Replace a Toilet Fill Valve

The toilet fill valve is one of two main components inside the toilet tank. If the fill valve is worn, damaged, or not operating properly, it could cause a leak from the toilet tank base or lead to the toilet continually filling. By replacing the fill valve assembly, you can reduce wasted water and lower utility bills. Learn how to identify if a toilet fill valve is malfunctioning and steps to follow when replacing the part.

The Basic Companies2023-02-12T16:27:53-05:00

Difference Between Gas and Electric Fireplaces

It is common for new homes to have gas fireplaces or electric fireplaces instead of a traditional wood fireplace since they are less expensive to install, cleaner, easier to maintain, and more efficient. Some homeowners are even converting existing wood-burning fireplaced to gas or electric, as the conversion can increase the value of a home and make it more appealing. Learn about differences between gas fireplaces and electric fireplaces and considerations when including the appliance in a home remodeling project.

The Basic Companies2023-02-09T21:04:11-05:00

The Cost of a Whirlpool Bath Remodeling Project

The installation of a jetted tub as part of a bath remodeling project typically requires installation of a concrete slab or joists and additional electrical components. Other factors that impact the cost of a whirlpool bath remodeling project include the type and size of the jetted tub, framing and plumbing required for installation, and labor costs for the area. Learn about factors to consider when planning for a bathroom remodel or basement finishing project that includes a jetted bathtub.

The Basic Companies2023-01-31T20:08:16-05:00

Check These 12 Areas if Your Home has a Funny Smell

A home can have all sorts of lingering and unpleasant smells, such as a stench from the bathroom. And, while some household smells are merely objectionable, others can be an indication of a hazardous condition.

The Basic Companies2023-01-18T22:56:11-05:00

How Much Does Furnace Repair Cost?

According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, furnace repair cost ranges between $131-$486, with an average cost of $308. A service call for a simple furnace repair on an electric furnace can cost as little as $65, however, a substantial repair for a gas-powered furnace can run in excess of $1,250. Factors that impact the cost of furnace repair are the price of parts, labor costs, the cause of failure, the complexity of the repair, and type of fuel the furnace requires. Learn about costs for furnace repair, as well as steps to take to reduce the likelihood of furnace failure and how to detect an issue with a furnace.

The Basic Companies2022-11-06T21:30:34-05:00

Home Repairs and Renovations to Make an Old Home More Energy Efficient

Older homes are known to be less energy efficient than newer models, however, there are several home repairs and renovations that can be made to older homes to make them more energy efficient. Learn about these repairs that can reduce energy consumption and monthly utility bills.

The Basic Companies2022-10-16T21:40:38-04:00