Worry In Wonderland? Beware Of Ice Dams!
Well, here we are in a winter wonderland…again! You’ve shoveled your driveway and salted the sidewalk, but before you wrap up in that snuggie and whip up a cup of hot chocolate, F.H. Furr wants to let you know there may be a little something you haven’t considered. It’s below freezing outside, there’s snow on […]
Get The Lowdown: Battery Backup Sump Pumps
Alright, let’s talk a little bit about the basement. Basements are the location of every “jumpy scene” in horror movies, but in real life they are often just an average part of your home. Some basements are typical man caves, complete with plasma screens and pool tables. They can even be the main storage area […]
Learn the Lingo: Common Plumbing Terms
What even is a ‘closet auger’? A ‘branch drain’? You’re advised to think twice before identifying ‘balancing ell’ as a circus routine involving a hefty gray mammal with large fan-shaped ears and a trunk. The truth is, plumbing seems to have its own language, leaving many a homeowner lost and confused when trying to communicate […]
Ask F.H. Furr: Why is my sink leaking?
Question submitted by Rush E. Herndon, VA. Let’s talk about leaks. There’s a reason why “a constant dripping” is a common idiom used for anything irritating or infuriating. Let’s face it, leaky faucets leave no room for patience—and rightly so! Time is money, and the longer that faucet drips, the more money you’re losing down […]
What Are Some of the Best Ways to Warm Up for Winter?
This question was sent in by Mary F. of Great Falls, VA Winter is upon us! ‘Tis the season for Christmas caroling, gift giving, and enjoying the cool weather indoors….wait, that last part isn’t right! During the holidays, our homes are meant to be warm and inviting, yet some of us feel like we’re stuck […]
Ask F.H. Furr: My heat went out, what should I check for?
Question submitted by Julia P. Reston, VA Julia, it’s the true beginning of the cold winter months, and we’re hoping you’re asking this question for future reference, and not because you’re experiencing no heat! The cold can be miserable, it’s important to know that your house is always warm. Even if you don’t mind the […]
The Grinch Might Not Be The Only One Stealing Christmas!
Christmas is nearly here, and although some folks have completed their Christmas shopping, most of us are just getting started! We have Christmas lists written in red and green crayons hanging on our refrigerators, waiting for “Santa” to check them off. Well, I’m sure we can all agree that Santa’s budget is a bit tight […]
5 Things That Never Go In A Garbage Disposal!
Thanksgiving is here! In the spirit of Turkey Day, we are generally offered helpful tips on how to survive the holidays, tips like cooking the perfect turkey, arranging our seasonal home decor, and the “how-to” of putting up with your mother-in-law for the entire weekend of Thanksgiving! So with all these tidbits of information, why […]
Ask F.H. Furr: How many years does a typical water heater last?
“… and what can I do to extend its life?” Submitted by Wanda W. of Fairfax, Va. Most tanked water heaters last a little over 10 years, but in my opinion, it’s a good idea to start researching for a replacement after about seven years, especially when it comes to repairs for that age of […]
Fall Allergies, Their Causes, and How to Find Relief!
It’s fall! The weather is gorgeous, the leaves are beginning to change, and being outside is a must! But why are you still sneezing like it’s the first day of spring? Unfortunately, fall allergens are different from those in the spring. While both seasons can affect many people, some may suffer from allergies in the […]
