Nicholas Lepinski

There are a number of benefits to volunteering, whether abroad or at home, that one can expect.  From gaining valuable real-world volunteer experience and developing new skills to expanding your professional network and exploring new occupations; the list is a long one. One study found that students who take a gap year are more likely to attend university later on, while other research shows that participating in community service can enhance students’ problem-solving skills and improve their team working abilities. So given the potential benefits of volunteering, how can you make sure you get the most out of what could very well be a once in a lifetime experience? According to Nicholas Lepinski ,  Here are a few tips to help you do just that. 1. Be flexible and open to new ideas The best way to get the most out of your volunteer experience is to be open to what others have to teach you, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar country or environment. 2. Identify your goals It’s ...

In today’s neck-throat competitive business world, the plumbing sector isn’t limited to individuals with years of experience as entrepreneurs are taking a plunge into this industry. But exactly who is a plumber? And what do plumber do on the job? “A professional responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing pipes and fixtures pertaining to heating and/or cooling systems, water distribution, and sanitation systems in residential and commercial spaces is a plumber. A plumber is also responsible for inspecting drainage and other plumbing systems for compliance with regional and national plumbing regulations.” So, if you are considering starting your own plumber business and already set up the office and got the plumbing business cards printed, you’ve landed at the right spot. Do plumbing businesses have a lot of money? Yes, with the right skills and business approach, they surely do. We’re going to guide you about the best effective plumber marketing strategies to present your bu...

Homeowners count on plumbers to be on call for all manner of problems, from a leaky faucet to a flooded basement. But before you pick up the phone, give yourself and your plumber a head start by familiarizing yourself with some lingo, best practices, and basic but key facts about how your home's plumbing system works. Here, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Nicholas Lepinski offers advice on how to interact with your plumber. 1. Don't Overreact Oh no! You just discovered the toilet is stopped up—call the plumber ASAP! And then stay calm. It's important to remember that not every problem is an emergency. 2. Know the Basics One thing plumbers wish every homeowner would know? Where the main plumbing shutoff valve is located. This way, you can stop a leak immediately, and then calmly wait for the plumber to fix the source of the problem. 3. Expect an Estimate, Not an Exact Cost Everyone wants to know what they're getting into, but plumbers can't give a specifi...

Every home has a network of plumbing and pipes essential to the everyday function of your home. When things go wrong you might reach for your own plumbing tools if you’re a bit handy around the home. Aside from the complicated plumbing problems that often demand high-level of expertise and specialised plumbing tools, some minor issues such as leaky pipes, blocked toilets, or clogged sinks usually occur frequently. And, the good news is that they can be rectified as a DIY task. However, to correct the problems successfully, you have to be prepared by having some essential tools at your disposal. With these tools you can: Change a leaking tap washer unblock a drain yourself Clear a blocked downpipe And other home maintenance jobs that’ll have you looking like a pro. So what plumbing tools do you need? Plumbing Tools List 1. Basin Wrench 2. Adjustable Wrench 3. Pipe wrench 4. Tongue-and-groove Pliers 5. Hacksaw 6. Metal file 7. Thread Seal Tape 8. Hand Auger 9. Tubing Cutter 10. Toilet pl...