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TIPS & TRICKS

Cape Ace Hardware strives to be more than just your local hardware store. We work hard to make sure you have the tools and equipment you need both online and offline. That is why we created Tips and Tricks for you to have more resources at your fingertips. Here you will find trends, DIY home hacks, seasonal tips, and more!

TIPS & TOOLS

Common Repairs for a Broken Toilet

Some of the most common and annoying problems with your toilet are the simplest to fix yourself. It helps to know how a toilet works. It also helps to know these common indicators, so you can pinpoint which part is causing the problem. Products: Toilet Parts

Quick Tips

5 Easy Projects to Save on Utilities

Lower Your Lighting Costs

Replace the light bulbs you use most with energy-saving LED light bulbs. Use compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs in other fixtures until you can upgrade all your lamps to LEDs. With LED bulbs you can save over 80% in energy costs over an incandescent bulb and they can last for decades. CFLs use a fourth of the energy of incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer.

Tune Up the Toilet

Toilets account for almost 30% of the water use in the average home. And, leaky toilets are the #1 source of water waste in homes. That constantly running toilet can waste 200-4,800 gallons of water per day.2 Fix the problem yourself by installing a toilet tank repair kit that features a new fill valve, flush valve, and flapper that will conserve water.

Fix Leaky Fixture

Dripping faucets can also cause a spike in your water bill. Replacing the usual suspects (the aerator and rubber washer, or a faulty cartridge) is inexpensive and the savings add up. And, install a water-saving showerhead. A WaterSense-labeled model can save the average family 2,900 gallons per year.

Hot Water Help

Your water heater may be working harder than it needs to. Reduce the temperature on the unit to about 120 degrees. Installing an insulating blanket can save about 4-9% in water heating costs if your water heater has a low insulating R-value already. If the unit is older than 12 years, you may want to look into replacing it with a new, more energy-efficient model.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can significantly reduce energy costs, especially in the winter and summer months. Programmable models allow you to automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day, creating a specific energy-saving ‘program’ for weekdays and weekends. Some models even allow you to set preferences on the hour for each day of the week. WiFi or Bluetooth-enabled devices add extra control and convenience by letting you adjust the settings remotely from a smartphone.

TIPS & TOOLS

ACE PAint Calculator

Before you buy paint, find out exactly how much you’ll need. If more than one room is being painted with the same color, add up the total square footage.

Quick Tips

What’s the best bird seed to use?

Look at the package and the seed for these signs of quality. You may not be getting your money’s worth from economy seed if what’s in the bag isn’t going to get eaten by the birds.

  • Treated seed
    • Most seed is steamed to prevent weed germination if it spills around the feeder.
  • Sunflower, Safflower, and Thistle seed
    • Look for blends with a high ratio of these seeds. They’re favorites of most birds.
  • Fillers that will be consumed
    • Pistachios, cherries, and raisins fill more space in the bag but will be eaten by the birds. Millet, wheat, oats, cracked corn, and peanut hulls may look like they add variety, but they mostly take up space. And, many birds discard them.
  • Un-Hulled seed
    • Seed that still has the shell on will store longer.
  • Cleanliness
    • Low-quality seed can contain twigs, rocks, field run, pebbles and other debris.

GET GRILLING

July 4th Backyard Party Ideas

Music and the smell of fresh burgers on the grill waft through the air, the sun shines down on a warm summer day, and everyone is out enjoying some fresh air and fireworks. For Americans, the Fourth of July is a day to come together and celebrate independence by enjoying our freedoms. Here are some July 4th backyard party ideas for your own one-of-a-kind celebration.

GET OUTDOORS

Humans vs. Bugs – How to Win

It’s always a battle – human vs. bugs. When you’re outside, you’re bound to encounter a wide array of critters. But, when you’re inside your home, it’s a different story. After all, you want to defend your home against an invasion of insects, some of which can actually damage your home. And, with the right products from Cape Ace Hardware, you can come out on top. Here are a few methods for keeping your home bug-free, plus a few tips for keeping them away when you’re outdoors.

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