Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2025-09-30T05:27:00

(BPT) – Designing or renovating your bathroom is the perfect opportunity to incorporate sustainable features. By carefully choosing materials and products that focus on reducing waste, you can do your part to conserve natural resources and design a bathroom that meets your needs and aesthetics.

Check out these three expert tips that can help you design your bathroom with sustainability and beauty in mind.

1. Design with recycled materials

The best way to start your sustainable bathroom journey is by carefully choosing recycled materials that transform waste into something beautiful and meaningful. For example, Kohler WasteLAB takes landfill-bound waste materials left over from the manufacturing process and converts them into functional and stylish tiles.

The brand’s Landshapes, Transcendence, Abstra and Crackle tile collections are made using recovered dry pottery cull, cast iron slag, waste glaze and filter cake, which are then meticulously handcrafted in small batches by artisans. The result? Stunning tiles that speak to sustainable luxury and suit many bathroom design styles.

The Kohler WasteLAB also handcrafts a Vox bathroom sink. Available in Ashen and Eggshell, the WasteLAB Vox is a testament to Kohler’s commitment to craftsmanship and circular design.

2. Replace your old toilet with a water-saving model

When you think about your water use, do you think about your toilet? According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets account for nearly 30% of an average home’s indoor water consumption.

A simple and smart way to save water is by installing an EPA WaterSense-certified toilet. The agency claims that by replacing an old, inefficient toilet with a WaterSense-labeled model, the average family can reduce water used for toilets by 20%-60%.

Choose a WaterSense-certified smart toilet like Kohler’s Veil smart toilet. The toilet’s bold minimalist design and water-saving technology effortlessly marry comfort and water conservation.

In addition to a full suite of convenient and comfort-focused features — including a heated seat, nightlight, hands-free opening/closing and automatic flush, plus a touch-screen remote — the smart toilet offers a pump-assisted dual flush that delivers peak flush performance every time.

3. Stay aware and adjust your habits

Installing water-saving products in your home is just the first step of a more comprehensive approach to bathroom sustainability. When designing an eco-conscious bathroom, you need to shift your mindset, which requires water use awareness.

Installing a smart showering system like Kohler’s Anthem+ is a great example of how Kohler designers have paired mindful water usage with an unparalleled showering experience. A sleek, minimalist display lets you configure and control temperature and flow, steam, light and sounds, creating a personalized shower experience every time.

The built-in eco mode automatically displays water usage after every shower, promoting a more mindful use of this precious resource. Paired with the Kohler Konnect app, you can monitor your water use over time so you can live more sustainably without compromising comfort.

Are you ready to elevate your bathroom with the environment in mind?

Elegance and sustainability can go hand in hand. Using these three tips, you’ll be well on your way to designing or renovating your bathroom. To find more bathroom design inspirations with eco features, visit Kohler.com.

2025-09-24T11:01:00

(BPT) – When designing or renovating a bathroom, attention often centers on the elements we see every day: striking tile, bold fixtures and dramatic lighting. These features certainly contribute to a room’s style, but seasoned designers know true luxury often comes from quieter choices — the ones that aren’t immediately visible yet completely transform how a space looks, feels and functions.

One of the most powerful of these design choices is the decision to build elements into the wall. Geberit’s Sigma and Omega in-wall systems conceal the tank and hardware, creating a streamlined, open aesthetic that adds calm and clarity to a space. This subtle decision is increasingly embraced in high-end homes, condominiums and luxury hotels, including the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria in New York, where timeless elegance depends on thoughtful design choices.

Why Quiet Choices Matter

Bathrooms are deeply personal spaces, where design meets daily ritual. Unlike a living room or kitchen, these spaces must balance style and utility in equal measure. By prioritizing what sits behind the wall, homeowners and designers gain the freedom to create cleaner lines, maximize floor space and reduce clutter. The result is a bathroom that feels lighter, simpler and more elegant — one that reflects the principles of quiet luxury, where intentional choices enhance the experience without demanding attention.

These understated decisions often have the most lasting impact. They don’t overwhelm the eye, yet they fundamentally reshape how a room is lived in. It’s a shift from asking, “What can I add to make this space more impressive?” to, “What can I remove to make this space more livable?”

Maximizing Space, Expanding Possibilities

Bathrooms are often the most space-conscious rooms in a home or hotel room, where every inch matters. Concealed in-wall systems immediately free up square footage, making layouts more flexible and movement more comfortable. That additional space creates opportunities designers wouldn’t otherwise have — floating vanities, wall-hung toilets and the freedom to position fixtures in ways that open up new design possibilities.

In compact urban condos, this can mean the difference between a cramped bathroom and one that feels expansive. In large luxury estates, it allows for statement finishes and architectural details to shine without visual clutter. Even in boutique hotels or high-traffic commercial environments, this simple decision creates rooms that feel tailored, intentional and elevated.

Small Details, Lasting Impact

Of course, even the most refined in-wall system still has the toilet bowl and the flush actuator plate. While it may seem like a minor detail, the flush actuator plate is one of the most frequently touched points in a bathroom, blending intuitive functionality with an opportunity for subtle design expression.

Geberit offers the widest range of actuator plates to suit different styles, from modern and minimal to warm and classic. The Sigma40, for example, recently earned the 2025 iF Design Award, demonstrating how even the smallest detail can be recognized on a global stage. Available in finishes and materials that complement any vision, actuator plates prove that the most modest features often carry the most influence.

Redefining Bathroom Luxury

Quiet luxury isn’t about minimalism for its own sake. It’s about design decisions that enhance daily living without overpowering it. Geberit’s Sigma and Omega in-wall systems, paired with actuator plates like the 2025 iF Design award-winning Sigma40, show how what happens behind the wall can have the biggest impact.

From private homes to world-famous hotels, these quiet design choices are reshaping modern bathrooms. They provide more space, more freedom and more refinement — all while working quietly in the background. In the end, the true mark of luxury isn’t always the statement you make. Sometimes, it’s the choice you don’t see.

2025-09-23T15:09:00

(BPT) – With the colder months approaching and more time spent indoors, now is the perfect opportunity to refresh and refine your living spaces.

From painting cabinets to window frames, simple updates can create a warmer, more inviting atmosphere for the season and help protect and preserve the beauty of your home’s interior for years to come. If you’re considering selling your home, refreshing your living areas is also a great way to boost its value before putting the house on the market next spring.

Five Star Painting knows the power of an interior refresh. Consider its top eight interior enhancement projects, which can elevate your space and extend your home’s longevity while adding value this winter season.

Cabinet refacing: A smarter makeover

Ever looked around your kitchen and thought, “I wish it felt brand new, but I don’t want the hassle or expense of a full remodel”? That’s where cabinet refacing comes in.

Through its partnership with nuDoors, Five Star Painting offers homeowners a modern, efficient solution. Instead of tearing everything out, they replace just the visible parts — your cabinet doors, drawer fronts and any exposed side panels — with fresh, custom-made styles and finishes.

The existing cabinet boxes remain in place and are refinished to match, so everything blends seamlessly. The end result? A kitchen that looks brand new — without the mess, cost or downtime of a traditional remodel.

Cabinet painting and refinishing

Painting or refinishing your cabinets breathes new life into your kitchen. Cabinets take up the most kitchen space, so choosing a paint or stain color that works best for your space is critical. For example, if you have a small kitchen, avoid cool whites, which can make a small space look dingy, and opt for a warm white or ivory instead.

After the paint has dried, it’s essential to keep your cabinets clean. Avoid harsh chemicals. More often than not, your cabinets will need a gentle wipe-down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove light splatters and dust. For grease and grime, dish soap and warm water can keep your cabinets clean and the kitchen cozy.

Crown molding and trim painting

Add character and define your space by giving crown molding and trim a fresh coat of paint. This is a significant upgrade for winter because even a slight touch-up on your trim sharpens the look and helps seal edges against winter drafts. Plus, this simple painting project holds up beautifully during the chilly months.

Before painting, remember to prepare the surface by scraping or peeling paint with a putty knife, removing hardened caulk, filling in holes or gaps and sanding the surface smooth. Taking the time to do it right can help you avoid having to repaint to cover up mistakes.

Room painting

Painting one or multiple rooms can completely transform a space, whether repainting the same color or changing the shade entirely.

Focusing on one room — or even just one wall — can make the space more inviting and keep daily wear at bay longer. If you’re considering painting multiple rooms, it’s better to do so in one go so your home has a consistent glow. This can also be done as winter approaches.

Window painting

A crisp new coat around your window frames the view and helps block the chill when the temperature drops. When painting a window sash that opens and closes vertically, keep the window open until the paint is fully dry. For painting narrow pieces of trim that run perpendicular to the glass, use a 1-inch trim for a neat job.

Professional painting services

You can do any of the projects on your own, but a professional interior painting service is the easiest way to enliven your home’s mood. By hiring painting professionals like those at Five Star Painting, you can rest easy knowing that they use only high-quality paints from top-rated brands to guarantee a stunning finish that stands the test of time. Plus, the company’s two-year warranty ensures that the job isn’t done until it’s done right.

Weather this winter with confidence

Whether you’re staying for years to come or selling soon, these eight interior refresh projects can easily upgrade your home’s aesthetic, promote longevity and increase its value. To learn more, visit FiveStarPainting.com/interior-enhancements.

2025-09-19T12:01:00

(BPT) – Many aspiring homebuyers know that saving for a 20% down payment can be a major hurdle to homeownership. As nearly 40 million homeowners can attest, however, private mortgage insurance (MI) allows for as little as 3% down to qualify for home financing sooner. U.S. Mortgage Insurers (USMI) reports that the private MI industry supported more than 800,000 low down payment borrowers in 2024 alone.

“Private MI is one of the most powerful financial tools available to homebuyers today since it can put homeownership within reach much sooner, giving buyers additional years of wealth-building,” said Seth Appleton, president of USMI.

Consider this: USMI’s report found that it could take a typical potential homebuyer 26 years to save for a 20% down payment plus closing costs on a home at the national median sales price. A typical homebuyer using private MI with 5% down can shave off many years that would otherwise be spent on the homebuying sidelines and can come to the closing table with tens of thousands of dollars less in closing costs. Private MI creates homeownership opportunities for these qualified borrowers, particularly first-time homebuyers who made up 65% of purchasers with private MI in 2024. Further, private MI paid monthly by the borrower — the most common form — is a temporary cost, which can be canceled once the loan meets certain requirements.

Additionally, publicly reported data confirm that the cost of private MI has declined 25% since 2017, in contrast to other costs of homeownership like homeowner’s insurance and property taxes. And, thanks to the recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, MI premiums will once again be deductible for qualifying homeowners on their federal income taxes beginning in tax year 2026.

From 2007 through 2021, the MI premium deduction was claimed 44 million times, by an average of 3.4 million homeowners each year, representing a combined $65 billion in deductions for hardworking Americans. In tax year 2021, qualified taxpayers received an average deduction of $2,364, according to IRS data. Those savings add up, which is why the MI tax deduction has enjoyed broad support from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, industry groups, housing advocates and civil rights organizations who all see value in how the deduction benefits hardworking American families without increasing risk in the housing finance system.

Interested individuals can learn more about the benefits of private MI at www.LowDownPaymentFacts.com, a resource launched by USMI to offer homebuyers low down payment mortgage information and dispel the myth that a 20% down payment is required to become a homeowner.

2025-09-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Do you live in a smaller home? If so, you’re not alone. With the current low real estate inventory and challenging housing market, compact homes like townhomes, condos and zero lot line homes are increasingly popular. In 2025, year-to-date new builds of 2- to 4-bedroom-unit projects (typically townhomes) are up 31.5% nationwide, compared to single-family new builds at just 10.1%. The appeal of compact housing is mostly due to its affordability, natural efficiency and low-maintenance living — but limited space does present challenges, especially when it comes to installing effective HVAC systems.

One solution? The slim heat pump, which is a more sustainable heating and cooling solution that combines efficient performance with space-saving design for a variety of housing situations.

Slim design with a big impact

If you haven’t heard of slim heat pumps yet, you likely will soon. An ordinary heat pump is an HVAC unit that efficiently heats and cools by extracting and transferring heat from the air. A slim heat pump works in the same way, but offers a more compact design that makes it ideal for properties with limited outdoor space.

Here are a few additional benefits of choosing a slim heat pump.

• Lower costs: Due to their efficiency, heat pumps can save you hundreds of dollars on energy costs, cutting energy bills year-round. In addition, homeowners can also qualify for the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program (HEEHRP), or save up to $2,000 with an Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit (25C) federal tax credit, which is available to homeowners who install high-efficiency equipment through Dec. 31, 2025. There are also opportunities for homeowners to tap into local utility rebate programs for qualifying equipment.*
• Quieter home: For anyone living in a townhome or condo — especially when you share walls with neighbors — a common concern is that a slim heat pump may be noisy. However, the majority of modern slim heat pumps operate at a surprisingly quiet sound level. Its precision-balanced, direct-drive fan enables sound levels as low as 54 decibels, which is comparable to an electric toothbrush.
• Greater sustainability: Heat pumps operate using electricity instead of natural gas or propane, allowing them to have lower greenhouse gas (GHG) potential. If you’re considering replacing your furnace, a slim heat pump is an ideal option, since it will easily integrate with your home’s existing ductwork while increasing efficiency.

Find the best model

Think switching to a slim heat pump could be the right decision for your home? The new Lennox EL18KSLV Slim Heat Pump is a fantastic choice. As a variable-capacity, cold climate heat pump that’s compatible with 2025 Compliant Refrigerant, this model will ensure precise comfort for homeowners, especially if you have a compact home. The EL18KSLV Heat Pump is compatible with multiple Lennox smart thermostats, allowing users to manage its settings through various smart home platforms.

The EL18KSLV Heat Pump features a narrow cabinet designed for easy installation by a professional in space-limited areas, such as zero-lot-line homes. The unit is built to help reduce energy use, and may contribute to lower utility costs throughout the year.

Make the switch

It’s important to note that a slim heat pump should be installed by a licensed HVAC professional, and not on your own. For questions and to find the best solution for your home, consult your local Lennox dealer.

Learn more about slim heat pumps and other industry-leading products for your home at Lennox.com.

*Lennox Industries Inc. (“Lennox”) is not a tax advisor and does not make any representation, warranty, guarantee or other assurance as to whether a particular matchup qualifies or is eligible for tax credits. Moreover, the tax laws are subject to change. As a result, Lennox highly recommends that you consult with a tax advisor regarding your qualification for the tax credits in your circumstance and verify and review the applicable tax laws and regulations.

2025-09-10T05:01:00

(BPT) – Your bathroom doesn’t have to solely be a utilitarian space. With just a few easy changes, you can turn your no-frill bathroom into a relaxing space with a personalized feel.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these five simple tips that can help you enhance your existing aesthetic or completely update the vibes of your bathroom.

1. Hang artwork that reflects your taste

Hanging artwork in the bathroom is the easiest way to quickly add personality. If you’re looking to change the room’s theme from a minimalist black-and-white color scheme to a maximalist tropical theme, find photos and prints with plants and trees in bright greens, reds and yellows.

Or, if you’ve been having a hard time finding a spot to hang art you’ve either purchased or been gifted by a friend, these pieces may look right at home in your bathroom!

Pro tip: Choose waterproof frames that can protect your art from humidity.

2. Update hardware to express your style

The hardware you choose sets the tone and style of a bathroom. If you currently have cool silver drawer pulls, faucets, towel bars and other fixtures with a polished finish, consider switching to warm gold or bronze hardware with a brushed finish.

Keep in mind that you can mix and match colors, materials and finishes to create a bathroom with hardware tailored to your taste. For example, if you want to upgrade your faucet, check out Kohler’s Mix & Match Faucet options. Three faucet collections provide you with the freedom to choose the spout style, handle and finish.

If you’re looking to inject turn-of-the-century charm into your bathroom, choose the Artifacts collection. For a high-fashion, effortless glamour of the Golden Age of Hollywood, opt for the Occasion line of faucet sets. Want to lean into minimalism? Take a look at the Components collection. Each line offers faucet fixtures in several finishes and colors, so you can find what suits your style best.

3. Add a spa-like feel with plants

Turn your bathroom into a tranquil retreat with bathroom-friendly plants. Adding natural, organic elements like plants can bring an otherwise sterile room to life and can soften a bathroom’s hard, clean lines. There are many plants you can choose from, but it’s best to choose ones that thrive in humidity, like calatheas, monsteras, pothos, orchids or ferns.

Once you’ve chosen your plants, look for decorative planters that match your aesthetic or the bathroom’s color scheme. If you’re short on space, consider hanging planters. No matter what you choose, the plants you care for can make the bathroom more inviting.

4. Control the ambiance with lighting

Changing the lighting in your bathroom allows you to effortlessly control the ambiance. For example, dimmable white light bulbs create a cozy atmosphere, but still offer enough illumination for grooming tasks like shaving and applying makeup. Installing a dimmer switch allows you to adjust brightness to create a sunlike daytime mood or a soothing evening glow for a relaxing bath after a long day. For flexibility, install smart lighting that allows you to change the color and brightness depending on your mood and needs.

Pro tip: Choose lighting elements that match or complement other bathroom hardware. If you’re considering installing a faucet from Kohler’s Artifacts, Components and Occasion collections, you’re in luck. Each collection also offers customizable lighting fixtures.

5. Add color and texture with paint and wallpaper

Finally, a new coat of paint or wallpaper can do wonders for a bathroom. With so many colors and patterns to choose from, you can easily find the combination that suits your style.

Tired of the sterile white or beige of your bathroom walls? Grab a can of baby blue or sage green to create a serene setting or use warm reds and pinks for a homey ambiance.

If you want to add textures and patterns, look for wallpaper that reflects the theme of the bathroom or that shows off your hobbies or interests. From florals to faux stone to geometric shapes and more, wallpaper offers endless possibilities to express yourself in this space.

Pro tip: The type of paint and wallpaper you choose matters. Acrylic and latex paints are popular bathroom choices because they can prevent mold and mildew that can flourish in humid conditions. Similarly, vinyl wallpaper is best for the humid bathroom environment.

Are you ready to restyle your bathroom? Using these five tips, you can turn a basic room into a retreat personalized to your heart’s content. To find more bathroom makeover tips and get inspired, visit Kohler.com.

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, cohosts of the HGTV series “Bargain Block,” are experts at transforming properties and boosting curb appeal. A home’s roof is a big part of the design duo’s roof transformations that pair curb appeal with powerful protection. Below are excerpts from a conversation with Keith and Evan about using color to make the most of a roof replacement.

What makes the roof such a good place to make a design statement?

(ET) Representing a large amount of a home’s exterior, the roof provides an ideal space for enhancing curb appeal. However, a roof also needs to be designed to stand up to the elements to help protect one of a consumer’s biggest investments — their home.

New shingles give homeowners lasting peace of mind. They know they’ve made a home improvement that will last for a long time.

(KB) But there is also curb appeal to think about. In many cases, a home’s roof is the single largest thing you see when you pull up to a house, so it can have a huge effect on a home’s appearance.

What are some roof design trends you are seeing in the market?

(KB) There are a lot more color options to choose from today. Owens Corning offers homeowners the option of so many dimensional colors. It’s kind of unbelievable how color options have expanded. When I was a kid, we had cedar, tan and black. Now, you get to have this luxurious moment with the roof and all of the shingle color selections. And luxury is something people expect now — even first-time home buyers.

(ET) When you have so many options, selecting a color gets easier. The undertones in the Owens Corning TruDefinition^® Designer shingle line are neutral, but the pops of color and dimensional textures in the granules make roof color more interesting.

What advice do you offer to homeowners for choosing a shingle color?

(KB) Color tools help homeowners make a beautiful decision that still feels safe. Matching a shingle with a monotone or selecting a complementary color makes it work. I ask people, “Tell me about colorful things that you love,” and that gets them going down a color path. Online style boards and color tools let people see how unexpected color pairings come together. I love the Owens Corning Duration^® Designer shingles in Black Sable, which give the richness of slate. And I also love Owens Corning Duration^®Designer shingle colors Storm Cloud and Pacific Wave!

I used to carry a color wheel. If you’re not confident, you just look across the wheel and there’s a complementary color on the opposite side.

(ET) As long as you are coordinating colors well, you can use almost any color and it will look good. It’s about making sure that you have the right colors paired together. And so, whether you go with a Prairie Craftsman or an Italianate look, it will still look good because you are pairing things properly.

How can a contractor assist homeowners in selecting a roof color?

(KB) A color consultation is a good place to start. Contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network can offer design tools to help inspire a color decision. When looking at shingle boards, removing the color options homeowners don’t like makes it easy to focus on colors that may pair well.

In our business, we’ve proven that you can work design into the home’s improvement and still get the performance and budget you’re looking for. The mood boards Owens Corning put together help contractors and homeowners make use of a proven color process.

What does a color consultation involve?

(KB) We ask people to tell us about themselves and about their house and that really helps personalize color. It also brings a sense of luxury design into the process.

(ET) Sometimes homeowners have a perception that a luxury design roof has to be unaffordable. Advances in asphalt shingles and color pairing mood boards provide an approachable design moment that gives homeowners a luxury look at an asphalt price point.

Learn more about Keith and Evan’s collaboration with Owens Corning and check out “Bargain Block” season 4, currently airing on HGTV.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Your dream deck deserves expert craftsmanship. From the foundation to the finishing touches, there are many steps to consider. If you’re an experienced DIYer, you might tackle the project yourself. But the vast majority of homeowners will hire a pro to take your deck from concept to completion. To help you find the perfect pro for your project, the outdoor living experts at Trex recommend following six important steps.

1: Ask your neighbors

Tap your circle of friends, family and neighbors for referrals. Their firsthand experiences can help narrow your search. You can also get recommendations from local lumberyards, home centers and other decking materials suppliers.

2: Research experts online

Explore online directories and review contractor websites to compile a short list of prospective candidates. Look up reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp and HomeAdvisor, and check out their social media channels to get a sense of their projects and personalities.

3: Find a builder proficient with the materials you want to use

There is a wide range of decking materials — wood, composite, PVC, aluminum — and each comes with its own set of installation requirements and nuanced intricacies. Look for builders experienced in working with your preferred material. For instance, TrexPro^® contractors are trained in building with composite decking. To find these professionals in your area, use the “Find a Builder” tool on Trex.com.

4: Vet prospects

Meet with several builders before booking to ensure you find one that is not only skilled but who also instills confidence and comfort. Pay attention to how quickly they return calls and answer emails. Ask targeted questions about their process and expertise. Trex offers a helpful guide for gathering bids that includes advice on what to ask a deck builder. Clear communication is critical. If a contractor seems reluctant to thoroughly explain their process, that’s a potential red flag.

5: Confirm contractor credibility

Make sure the builder you choose is licensed and carries the proper insurance to protect your home and the people in it. It’s also a good idea to reach out to previous clients to learn about their experiences. Ask questions like: Would you hire this builder again? Did you feel they listened to you throughout your project? Describe any difficulties or surprises along the way and how they were addressed. Was the job completed on time and on budget to your satisfaction?

6: Compare contractor estimates

Get written estimates from multiple contractors. Make sure they clearly outline the full scope of work and costs. You can never have too much information. Contractors with the most comprehensive estimates often understand how to avoid issues down the road. And remember, the least expensive bid is not always the best value.

For more tips on how to find the right deck builder for your project, visit Trex.com.

2025-08-29T12:03:00

(BPT) – Tankless electric water heaters are transforming the way households experience hot water by offering energy-efficient, space-saving solutions that deliver heated water on demand. These compact units can be up to 98% smaller than traditional storage water heaters. They may be installed in tight spaces or even mounted to a wall, freeing up valuable space while reducing energy consumption.

Selecting the right model requires preparation and research. Homeowners should consider key elements of their home’s design, including the number of occupants, bathrooms and hot water appliances — paired with overall water usage — to ensure the correct tankless electric water heater is installed.

Tip 1: Estimate household hot water demand

A critical first step is properly estimating the household’s hot water demand. A tankless electric water heater’s flow rate, measured in gallons per minute (GPM), determines its size. Calculating how many hot water GPMs the household typically uses is essential and is done by adding up the flow rates of fixtures, such as faucets and showers, that run at the same time.

After determining the GPM required to meet all the household’s simultaneous needs, the homeowner can choose the right size tankless electric water heater. For example, if someone uses the shower while two faucets are running, the home will need a tankless electric water heater with at least a 5 GPM capacity.

See infographic for an overview of product usage, sizing and geographic zones.

Another important consideration is the number of bathrooms and typical usage patterns of occupants. Larger families or homes with multiple bathrooms may require a higher-capacity unit, whereas smaller households can often rely on a more compact solution. For example, the Rheem RTEX and EcoSmart models under the Rheem^® family of brands cater to a wide range of needs, from point-of-use (POU) units for single fixtures, to whole-home options designed to handle multiple fixtures concurrently.

Tip 2: Factor in regional climate

Groundwater temperatures vary across the country. In northern regions of the U.S., which tend to be colder, the ground water is also colder. This means that a higher temperature rise (difference between the ground water temperature and the desired output water temperature) is required compared to warmer southern areas.

For example, in southern areas where the groundwater temperature is 62° F, to reach a desired output water temperature of 105° F, the temperature rise would be 43° F. Whereas, in northern regions, if the groundwater temperature is 40° F to reach 105° F, the temperature rise is much higher at 65° F. The unit has to work harder to achieve this temperature.

For this reason, certain models will work well in southern climates, but a similar household in a northern region may need a larger tankless electric water heater to achieve the degree rise needed to meet household hot water requirements.

Tip 3: Account for water temperature and flow rate

Water temperature and flow rate are equally crucial when determining the appropriate tankless electric water heater size. Higher flow rates demand more powerful models to maintain consistent hot water output. Some residences may be accommodated by one whole-home unit, while others may require multiple point-of-use systems.

Tip 4: Evaluate electrical capacity

The home’s electrical capacity is another essential consideration when selecting a tankless electric water heater. For most homes, the average available amp service is either 100-, 200-, or 300-amps. While a 200-amp service panel typically suffices for average households, new construction, larger homes and high-demand systems may require a higher 300-amp service panel. Additionally, older homes with lower amp service may require an electric panel upgrade to meet the needs of a tankless electric water heater.

Higher-capacity tankless electric water heaters require more power, so be sure to assess the capability of the home’s electric service panel to accommodate additional circuit breakers before installation. Consult a licensed electrician or contractor to evaluate the home, circuit breaker size and wiring gauge to ensure the service panel can handle the load, prevent overloads and ensure a safe, efficient operation.

There are many benefits to tankless electric water heaters, including the ease of installation. Tankless electric models simplify installation by eliminating the need for venting, but sizing is key. If the unit is undersized, it may not fully meet demand during simultaneous water use. An oversized unit can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and higher utility costs.

Follow these tips and use a manufacturer’s guide, such as Rheem’s online sizing resource, to confidently select a tankless electric water heater model, then work with a professional to guarantee a safe and efficient installation for endless hot water and energy-efficient operation.

2025-08-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Your phone can control your thermostat, your fridge sends you grocery alerts … but your toilet? Still stuck in 1995. It’s time for an upgrade — and no, it doesn’t involve knocking down any walls. Bringing your bathroom into the 21st century and adding a touch of luxury to your experience doesn’t take a $25,000 remodel — just one smart addition.

If it feels like bidets are suddenly everywhere, you’re not imagining it. While bidets are common in Europe and Asia, and they’re even legally required in most Italian homes, many Americans don’t know what a bidet looks like. But that has been changing quickly in recent years. Through online reviews and social media buzz, more people are discovering that using a stream of water instead of just toilet paper isn’t strange — it’s smart.

Whether you’re bidet-curious or still skeptical, this guide will break down the basics — what a bidet does, why it’s catching on across the U.S. and how modern bidet seats like Coway’s Bidetmega 400S and 500S are changing the way people think about personal hygiene.

What exactly is a bidet, and how does it work?

A bidet is a bathroom fixture or toilet attachment for cleansing. It sprays a stream of water for cleansing after you go to the bathroom, not unlike a water fountain. The name comes from an old French word that meant “pony,” since users of the original bidets had to straddle the device in a way that looked a bit like riding a horse.

While traditional bidets resembled low sinks that sat next to toilets, modern bidets are much more integrated and technologically advanced. Today’s electric bidet seats have come a long way from the French pony days, and they can be easily added to the toilet you already have. Now, a bidet seat attaches to your toilet and connects directly to your home’s fresh water supply through a simple T-valve, which ensures that the water it sprays is separate from that of the toilet bowl.

Why is a bidet a must-have amenity?

A bidet not only elevates your bathroom design, but it also provides physical, financial and sanitary benefits. Bidets improve health and wellness because they’re more hygienic than the alternative. Bidets can also help people with mobility issues due to aging or physical disabilities, or temporary challenges that occur postpartum or after surgery. Homeowners love that bidets prevent common plumbing problems caused by flushing lots of toilet paper or wipes.

Does using a bidet feel different from wiping with toilet paper alone?

Using a bidet is a gentle and refreshing experience that only takes a few seconds. You can still use a bit of toilet paper, though some bidets even have air dryers.

Modern electric bidet seats are specifically designed with your comfort in mind, with tech-driven features and adjustable settings that enable you to personalize your experience. Coway’s Bidetmega 400S and Bidetmega 500S, for example, feature a three-stage wash that automatically varies the angles and water pressure to remove residue, plus customizable user profiles with memory settings that remember your preferences.

Are bidets safe and hygienic?

Bidets are very safe and incredibly hygienic. The water they spray comes from the same clean source as the water you use to brush your teeth or wash your face. Keeping a bidet clean can also be very simple. Many of the latest bidets are designed with hygienic features like a self-cleaning nozzle, antimicrobial materials and coatings, and germ-killing UV lights.

Do I need to hire a pricey plumber to install a bidet?

Bidet seats are easy to install directly onto your existing toilet. Just measure your toilet to determine if it is elongated or round, then match your bidet to that shape. You only need basic tools and about 30 minutes — no plumber necessary. Upgrading your bathroom has never been simpler!

What cutting-edge features do the most technologically advanced bidets have these days?

Today’s smart bidets don’t just clean you — they clean themselves, adapt to your comfort, save energy and improve safety, compared to basic or old-school models. Coway’s most advanced Bidetmega models include features that provide a more hygienic, personalized, convenient and eco-friendly user experience than the average bidet.

For those who prioritize cleanliness and hygiene:

• The auto-cleaning nozzle and bacteria-eliminating UV light, plus WaterShield™ misting spray, prevent toilet bowl germs
• Integrated carbon deodorizer and auto-close lid contain air particles

For those who value personalized comfort:

• Three-stage gentle wash setting with i-wave technology allows for customized water pressure, motion and spray patterns
• Adjustable nozzle position, seat warmth, built-in dryer, water temperature and water pressure offer unparalleled comfort
• User profiles save your personalized settings

For those who seek practical convenience:

• Nightlight for easy midnight bathroom visits
• Wireless remote with docking station or wall mount for convenience
• Tankless design instantly heats only the water you need, with no waste
• Eco Mode reduces energy use when idle and decreases seat temperature to prevent overheating

Treat yourself to the modern bathroom upgrade you deserve. To learn more about bidets, discover the latest features and find out why so many Americans are finally joining the bidet bandwagon, visit https://cowaymega.com/pages/bidets.