#New Water Heater Installation

[plumbingservicedeerpark]

Plumbing Service Deer Park

Plumbing Service Deer Park not only does regular maintenance on gas water heaters and tankless water heaters, but we can also repair water heaters and we are experts at replacing water heaters. If you have a water heater emergency Plumbing Service Deer Park will come to you no matter the time of night. We are a true 24-hour hot water heater service. Our services stand above the rest and when you hire us you will experience the difference too. Water heaters don't break on your time. A water heater emergency can happen at any time. That is why Plumbing Services Deer Park gives you the best emergency plumbing services at any time you call. 

About us: 

Business Name:  Plumbing Service Deer Park 

Address: 117 E San Augustine St 

City: Deer Park 

State: TX

Zip: 77536 

Phone:  281-761-7812 

Website:  https://plumbingservicedeerpark.com/

Payment:  Mastercard, Visa, Discover, Cash, American Express

Business Hours: All Days 06:00 am : 10:00 pm 

[pearlandplumbings]

Pearland Plumbings

If you need to work on a problem although not a single thing an individual do is going to get that stop? At these times, you could be stressful plus willing to quit on a fitting, then again our company will be able to aid. Permit Pearland Plumbings find out which a person are dealing with plus our company will try to fix it to you. All of our expert specialists recognize specifically the things an individual demand through your plumbing company. Assuming that one possess our company's phone number saved, support could don't be a long way away you.

[hotwaterheaterteam]

Hot Water Heater Team

Tankless water heaters are generally reliable, although problems can still occur from time to time. With our handy location close to you, the Hot Water Heater Plumber is your honest companion for water heating system maintenance. Our friendly technicians are prepared to identify and fix any issues that can compromise the functionality of your modular boiler. We aim to quickly and effectively restore your hot water supply, regardless of the extent of the issue. You can count on Hot Water Heater Plumber for effective and efficient geyser repair services because we are dedicated to achieving client satisfaction. Whether your current geyser is reaching the end of its lifespan or you know an upgrade to a tankless system, Hot Water Heater Plumber offers comprehensive water heater replacement services. Our experienced team guides you through the selection process, considering factors such as hot water usage, vitality efficiency, and budget. We ensure a seamless installation of your new tankless water heater, providing you with the benefits of on-demand hot water and energy savings. Get in touch with us right now to discover the dependability, and energy economy.

Contact us on 346-569-8021.

[pcplumbing01]

Reliable home plumbing in Wayland. Experienced plumbers offer prompt service. Serving Sudbury & Framingham for plumbing, HVAC, & remodeling needs. For More Information Visit Our Website - https://pcheatingplumbing.com/

[canyonplumbers]

Signs Your Boiler Heating System Might Need Replacement

https://canyonplumbers.com/boiler-services/ - Boilers are essential for Colorado winters but have a limited lifespan. Recognize the signs of a failing boiler to maintain efficiency and comfort. Frequent repairs, rising energy bills, uneven heating, strange noises, leaks, and an aging system often signal it’s time for an upgrade. Modern boilers offer energy savings, better reliability, and advanced features. Canyon Plumbing & Heating, Inc. provides expert boiler replacement tailored to your needs. Call (720) 480-6228 or email service@canyonplumbers.com today!

Contact Us:

Canyon Plumbing & Heating, Inc

4700 Sterling Dr Ste G,

Boulder, CO 80301, United States

(720) 480 6228

service@canyonplumbers.com

[imwritesometimes]

today is one of those days where it's like idk I woke up and now it's 1pm

[business4u]

Water Heater Installation Services in Williamsburg

For dependable hot water, trust our Water Heater Installation Services in Williamsburg VA. We specialize in the installation of high-efficiency water heaters that meet your home’s needs. Whether you’re replacing an old unit or installing a new system, our team ensures a seamless installation process, so you can enjoy hot water without interruptions.

[waterheaterrepaircarrolton]

Water Heater Repair Carrolton TX

Are you someone who’s attempting to solve the problems of your heating tanks? If you can’t seem to get a grip on your plumbing and you need some help, +Water Heater Repair Carrolton TX is here to help. Our Texas technicians and plumbers are ready to help you fix or replace any broken plumb fixture in your commercial or residential building.

Offer :-

$ 25 Off Any Plumbing Service $ 100 off Any Water Heater Installation $ 40 Off Water Leak Repair $ 75 Off Installing New Water Heater

Service :-

Water Heater Repair Water Leak Repair Installing New Water Heater Water Heater Installation Tankless Water Heater Solar Water Heater

Water Heater Repair Carrolton TX waterheaterrepaircarrolton.com 972-584-7496 2145 N Josey Ln, Carrolton TX 75006 All Days: From 6 am To 7 pm

[allweatherplumbingnd]

https://allweatherplumbingnd.com/contact Plumbing services near North Dakota-Best plumber Moore head-Best Plumbing Contractor Minnesota Plumbing emergencies can strike at any time, leaving you feeling helpless. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency services to address your urgent plumbing needs. Whether it's a burst pipe or a malfunctioning water heater, our team is ready to respond quickly and effectively.

[postsify]

The Ultimate Guide to Water Heater Installation in North Plainfield, NJ

Efficient water heating is crucial for everyday comfort, and when it's time to install or upgrade your water heater, the process can seem complex and daunting. But fear not. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about water heater installation North Plainfield NJ. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast looking to tackle the project yourself or a homeowner who wants to understand the process better, we've got you covered.

Understanding Your Water Heating Needs

Before you begin the installation process, it's essential to assess your water heating requirements. How much hot water does your household use, and at what times? Factors like the number of occupants in your home, your daily routines, and the number of bathrooms will all influence the type and size of water heater you need.

Determining the Right Type of Water Heater

There are several types of water heaters available, each with its own set of pros and cons. For example:

Conventional Tank-Style Water Heaters: These are the most common type of water heaters and store hot water in a tank. They are relatively affordable but can be less energy-efficient than other options due to standby heat loss.

Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters: These units heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. They are highly energy-efficient and can provide an endless supply of hot water, but they usually have higher upfront costs.

Heat Pump Water Heaters: This type of water heater transfers heat from the air to the water and can be two to three times more energy-efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters.

Solar Water Heaters: These water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water and are the most energy-efficient option.

Sizing Your Water Heater

The size of your water heater is critical. A unit that's too small may leave you with cold showers, while one that's too large can waste energy. You can roughly estimate the water heater size you need based on the peak hour demand in your home. For households with two to three people, a 30-40 gallon tank is usually sufficient. Larger households may require a 50-gallon tank or more.

Preparing for Water Heater Installation

Now that you've chosen the right water heater for your needs, it's time to prepare for installation. This includes gathering the necessary tools and materials and making any required adjustments to your home's plumbing and electrical systems.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start the installation process, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:

Pipe wrench

Adjustable wrench

Screwdrivers

Safety gloves and goggles

Metal file

Soldering torch and materials (for certain types of water heaters)

Teflon tape

Pipe sealant

Hacksaw

Checking Your Home's Readiness

Ensure that your home is ready for the new water heater. The installation site should be clear and accessible, with enough room for the water heater and service access. If you're switching to a different type of water heater, you may need to make adjustments to your home's plumbing and electrical systems.

Professional versus DIY Installation

Deciding whether to install your water heater yourself or hire a professional is a critical choice. While DIY installation can save you money, it requires a good level of plumbing and electrical skills. Professional installation ensures the job is done correctly and may be necessary if your new water heater's type or size requires significant changes to your home's systems.

Pros and Cons of DIY Installation

DIY installation can be a rewarding project for those with the necessary skills. It allows you to save money and learn more about your home's systems. However, if the installation is not done correctly, it can lead to leaks, electrical hazards, and energy inefficiency, which could end up costing you more in the long run.

Hiring a Professional Installer

A professional installer can assess your water heating needs, recommend the best type of water heater, and ensure that it's installed safely and correctly. They will also be familiar with local building codes and obtain any necessary permits for you.

Obtaining Permits and Local Regulations

In North Plainfield, NJ, water heater installations may require permits and must adhere to local building codes and regulations. It's crucial to check with your local municipal office to understand what's needed before you begin the installation process.

Why Permits Are Important

Permits are an essential part of the installation process. They ensure that the work is performed to the required standards and that your new water heater complies with safety and energy efficiency regulations. Skipping permits can lead to fines and may affect your homeowner's insurance.

Understanding North Plainfield's Building Codes

North Plainfield, NJ, has specific building codes related to water heater installations. These codes may cover the location of the water heater, the type of venting required, and other safety and performance standards. Make sure you understand and follow these codes to ensure a successful and legal installation.

The Installation Process

Now that you've done your pre-installation assessment and are prepared to move forward, it's time to begin the installation. Below we'll cover the general steps you'll need to take when installing a conventional tank-style water heater.

Step 1: Turn Off All Utilities

Before you do anything, turn off the electricity or gas and the water supply to your old water heater. If you're replacing an old unit, drain it and disconnect the water and gas or electrical lines.

Step 2: Prepare the Installation Site

Clear the area around the installation site and ensure that the new water heater will have proper footing. Consider using a water heater pan and a suitable drain if one is not already in place.

Step 3: Connect the Water Supply

Connect your new water heater to the water supply. Use Teflon tape or pipe sealant on threaded fittings to prevent leaks. Make sure to connect hot to hot and cold to cold.

Step 4: Install the Pressure Relief Valve

The pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature. Make sure it is installed and piped to the floor drain correctly.

Step 5: Connect the vent (For gas heaters)

For gas water heaters, the vent system must be properly installed to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.

Step 6: Connect the Flue (For gas heaters)

If you're installing a gas water heater, make sure the flue is connected to the vent at the top of the water heater.

Step 7: Electrical Connections (For electric heaters)

For electric water heaters, ensure that all electrical connections are made securely and that the unit is grounded properly.

Step 8: Fill the Tank and Check for Leaks

Open the water supply and fill the tank with water. Check all connections for leaks. If there are any leaks, turn off the water supply and tighten the fittings until the leaks stop.

Step 9: Turn On the Power

Once you have confirmed that there are no leaks, you can turn on the power or gas to your water heater. Monitor the unit for a reasonable amount of time to ensure everything is working as it should.

Post-Installation Checks and Maintenance

After your water heater is installed, there are a few additional steps you should take to ensure everything is functioning properly and to maintain your unit over time.

Check for Proper Operation

After turning on the water heater, check that it's heating water as expected. The water should reach the desired temperature, and you should have a consistent supply without any fluctuating temperatures (which could indicate a problem with the mixing valve).

Insulate Your Pipes

You can improve the efficiency of your water heater by insulating the hot water pipes. This will help reduce heat loss as the water travels to your taps.

Set the Temperature

Adjust the water heater's temperature to a safe and comfortable level. The recommended setting is generally around 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and save energy.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your water heater. This includes flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod, which helps prevent corrosion in the tank.

The Role of Building Inspections

Building inspections are typically required for water heater installations in North Plainfield, NJ, and they are an important step in the process. The inspector will verify that your installation meets local building codes and is safe.

What to Expect During an Inspection

During the inspection, the inspector will check various components of your water heater installation, including the venting system, the pressure relief valve, the electrical or gas connections, and the water supply.

Pass or Fail?

If your installation meets all the requirements, you will receive a pass. If there are any issues, the inspector will note them, and you will need to correct them before your installation is approved.

Final Words

Water heater installation can be a significant project, but with the right information and preparation, you can tackle it with confidence. Whether you're installing a new unit yourself or hiring a professional, understanding the process, from start to finish, is key to ensuring a successful and efficient hot water solution for your home.

Remember to approach each step with patience and careful attention to detail. If at any point you feel uncertain, don't hesitate to seek advice from experts or your local municipal office. Your diligence will pay off in the form of long-term comfort and peace of mind. if you need hydro jetting Newark nj we have best plumbers for your help.

If you're considering a water heater installation in North Plainfield, NJ, you're making an investment in your home's comfort and energy efficiency. By following the guidelines in this post, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a reliable supply of hot water for years to come.

[pcheatingplumbing]

PC Plumbing Wayland | Bathroom Remodeling Wayland

For guaranteed upfront pricing, our 100% satisfaction, 24/7 emergency service, & much more, P.C. Plumbing, Heating & Air is ready to serve you. PC Plumbing Wayland | AC Repair Wayland

Provides - new water heater wayland, gas fireplace installation wayland, new furnace wayland, bathroom remodeling wayland, furnace repair wayland, ac repair, kitchen remodeling, heating wayland, plumbing wayland, plumber wayland, plumbing repair wayland, drain cleaning wayland, new ac system wayland, water heater repair wayland, sewer repair wayland

[ohiowaterheaters]

Importance of professional tankless water heater installation in Columbus, OH

Installing a tankless water heater in your home can have many benefits, especially if you live in Columbus, OH. Not only will it improve the energy efficiency of your home, but it will also provide hot water on demand and save you money on energy bills. However, it's important to note that the professional installation of a tankless water heater is critical for optimal performance and safety. By understanding the importance of having a professional for tankless water heater installation in Columbus, OH, you can ensure that you get the most out of your investment. 

1. Professional Knowledge: 

It’s important to hire a professional for tankless water heater installation because they have the expertise and knowledge needed to properly install and maintain the system. They understand the complexities of plumbing and electrical systems, as well as the local building codes in Columbus, OH. Additionally, they have access to quality parts and components that are designed to work with your particular tankless water heater model.

2. Safety: 

Tankless water heaters can be dangerous if not installed correctly due to their high-powered heating elements and pressurized pipes. By hiring a professional installer or plumbing repair in Gahanna, OH who knows what they’re doing, you can minimize the risk of leaks or other malfunctions. Furthermore, professionals will ensure that all safety protocols are followed during installation to protect both you and your family from any potential hazards associated with a tankless water heater system. 

3. Warranty: 

When you hire a professional for tankless water heater installation in Columbus, OH, they will usually provide a warranty on the parts and labor associated with the job. This means that if something goes wrong or there is an issue down the line, you’ll be able to get it taken care of without any additional cost. Without a warranty, you may have to pay out of pocket for repairs or replacements if needed. 

Having a professional install your tankless water heater can save you money in the long run by increasing its efficiency and ensuring your safety. If you’re looking for reliable tankless water heater installation services or other services like kitchen faucet installation in New Albany, OH, contact Ohio Water Heaters at (614) 327-6971 to learn more or book an appointment! 

[thebibliosphere]

Joy I have to ask - what temperature do you think it is inside Wayne Manor?

Is it essentially outside temperature except where the fireplaces are? Does Alfred have a one man war against climate change? Is that why Bruce spends so much time in the basement?

Depending on which timeline you follow, Wayne Manor was built in the late 1800s. Having worked in giant historical homes, I'm telling you now it's a fucking pain in the ass to update the heating systems in those buildings. I know we've got comic book logic to contend with, and they've got massive generators in the basement to keep the cave running (sometimes it's turbines powered by the water flowing through the caves), but I also think it's plausible that to avoid damaging the historical facade of the building, you might walk around the house and see box fans shoved into the window frames during the summer because fuuuuck trying to install modern AC through 18th-century brickwork.

As for heat, well, for a frame of reference, the James J Hill house up here in MN—built roughly around the same time during the Gilded Age when the Waynes were pioneering industry in Gotham—was forced to rely on a boiler roughly the size of a steam engine to heat the house and used 250 tons of coal each year to keep it warm. That boiler provided hot water and ambient heat through steam radiators, but they also still had fireplaces in almost every room to try and compensate for the winter. The house was updated for modern heating and air conditioning within the last 40 years, but with a house that size and ceilings so tall, it's not particularly efficient. They still rely on box fans and space heaters to keep the space habitable during summer and winter.

New Jersey is not as far north as Minnesota, but the temperatures can still drop comparably low, especially when you factor in the seafront Gotham is on. So, while I do think they likely upgraded the heating systems at some point (they can't keep guzzling through coal like that), I also can't help but feel it's got to be cold as hell in that house unless they're being meticulous about lighting fires and airing every room out to prevent damp.

Because that's another thing. If you're not keeping your stone house warm, you risk damp and water damage, and I feel like Alfred would rather gnaw off his own arm than let Wayne Manor crumble to dust with black mold festering in the original French plaster.

So he's not so much fighting a one-man war against climate change as he's fighting a one-man war to keep the house dry. He's walking through rooms no one even uses, making sure the steam radiators are working and opening the windows a crack to let the condensation out.

Is he also turning off all the light switches as he goes? Yes. Is he always yelling, "Why is every screen in this house turned on if no one is using them?" also, yes.

Is Bruce also down in the cave huddled under an extra cape, overclocking the batcomputer to stay warm? Also a distinct possibility.

[savingcrxws]

EYES ON FIRE | maybe someday

[ prev chap ] [ next chap ]

synopsis. you and carmen just keep bumping into each other.

word count. 4.3k (gah damn)

warnings. language, hardly proofread again i'm sorry its an addiction

authors note. thank u guys so much for the support in these previous chapters! it’s really amazing to me that u guys enjoyed it so much! i would recommend listening to maybe someday by the cure for this chapter!

“Yeah, Sugar. The appointment is booked for Thursday, the reps will probably be coming in at like…three o’clock,” you mutter, flipping through the manila folder absolutely stuffed with documents and sticky notes. 

You pursue your lips at all you had to get done within this week alone–sign installation permit, permit to replace the hot water heater, permit to fix the ventilation systems, reapply for occupancy capacity signs because of the restaurants lack of other permits, and holy shit…

You completely forgot to schedule the follow-up appointment with the BACP consultant. 

You groan, slamming the thick folder into your forehead, the papers thwacking against your skull. Natalie sounds startled on the other end of the phone, no doubt hearing the sound on her end of the call. She questions if you’re okay, and you only respond with a gentle hum before tossing the folder back down on the office table. 

“Hey, Suge, do you think I can call you back later? I need to schedule a follow-up consultation with Raquel before another rep hops on my ass about the boiler replacement.” 

“Of course, hun, call me back whenever you can,” Sugar starts and you can hear some papers flicking in her side of the call as well.

You had managed to convince her to work from home more often, worried that all the stress from the demolition inside would affect her pregnancy and her overall wellbeing. After some back and forth, she had begrudgingly agreed to spend two days working on the project from the comfort of her own couch. 

And even though she complains still, you know she appreciates she has a little bit more time off of her feet. 

“Don’t work yourself too hard, okay, Bug?” 

You nod, even though you know she can’t see you. “Same for you, Bear.” Sugar hums once again before you both give your goodbyes and end the call. 

You expel all of the air out of your chest in a large puff as you slide down the office chair.

After signing onto Team Bear, your new home-away-from-home had been this tiny office in the back of the restaurant. For the most part, no one came in and disrupted your work, which allowed you to have your head shoved into piles of paperwork, be stuck on phone calls, and be forced to reread legal jargon for hours on end with little interruption. 

Well, as little interruption as there could be with the restaurant quite literally falling apart around you. 

Thankfully, everyone was very respectful of your work in helping the developing business. You were practically putting every ounce of knowledge that you learned from both college and the real-world experience (including connections within the industry) to help push the restaurant closer to the deadline. All the while still dealing with your other commitments to other businesses that you had prior to signing on to this project.

Staying at The Bear for eight hours a day had its benefits, though.

For example, there was always something entertaining going on in the background. Like last Tuesday, when Fak had decided to send a sledgehammer directly into the only remaining wall of the office–sending bits and pieces of drywall onto your clothes.

Another benefit of being stuck in that office chair is that you had an excuse to ignore everyone around you. And by everyone, you really mean Carmen.

After the awkward office run-in last week, the two of you hardly spoke to each other. Sure, there was the ‘hellos’ and ‘goodbyes’ that you threw to each other and the words you exchanged when you caught him up on the status of licensing, but you two had yet to have an actual conversation.

It was clear that the both of you were still walking on eggshells around each other—and everyone could see it. But you had an inkling feeling that Carmen had been wanting to say something, judging by the short glances you sometimes catch him throwing in your direction.

Kinda similar to the one that he’s giving you right now.

You feel the heat of his stare on your face before you see it. He’d been staring at you for a couple moments now, long enough for you to no longer consider it an inquisitive glance.

You peek up from the folder and make solid eye contact with Carmen through the hole in the wall. The man flushes almost immediately, the red color sinking past his collar. You purse your lips and give a small nod of acknowledgment and he stutters in his spot.

And then he’s turning away.

Like he wasn’t the one just staring at you a moment ago.

You roll your eyes and turn back to your original position in the seat. Picking the folder up again, you flick to the papers listing the requirements for the next fire suppression test.

“Men,” you mutter, before picking up your phone and making a phone call.

Three days later, the office is completely demolished and your work revolving around The Bear has been moved to a family-owned coffee shop two blocks over.

In the short span of time, all of the walls in the store had been busted down and the restaurant had practically turned into a hazardous wasteland. And since construction was too far out of your pay grade, you decided to leave the heavy lifting up to everyone else.

“Alright, permit done!” You throw your hands up in the air, your theatrics catching the attention of a couple next to you. You could hardly care for the stares, though, you had been working on getting that permit for the past four days straight. Slamming your laptop shut, you pack up your bags and head off to the cash register to buy another coffee before you go.

While you wait for your drink, you decide to scroll aimlessly through your phone to kill some time.

“Oh shit,” you hear a voice utter behind you, and you barely have time to process the word before something ice cold is running down your back. “Fuck, I’m fucking sorry, I didn’t even see you—“

You gasp on reflex, taking a step forward and shivering. The person who spilled their drink on you is stuttering out apologies. The liquid seeps into the jacket you were wearing and you pull it off immediately.

“Yo, what the fuck, dude,” you curse, watching the large stain of coffee spread even farther across your jacket. “Watch where the hell you’re walking—”

In the middle of trying to give the perpetrator a piece of your mind, you failed to recognize the familiar sound of the voice that was spewing apology out of apology. But in a second, your eyes met a recognizable set of blue and you halted your words.

In front of you stands Carmen Berzatto. In his signature colored sweater and a half-spilled cup of coffee in his hand.

And he looks petrified.

It seems he didn’t realize just who was the unlucky victim to his americano attack either until you turned around. His mouth agape, he utters out a jumbled apology, glancing back at you, your stained jacket, and the cup in his hand like his brain was still trying to understand what just happened.

“Uh-uh, fuck, sorry, I swear this wasn’t on purpose,” he rambles, placing his cup on the counter behind you and grabbing some napkins right after. He steps back towards you and shoves his hand of napkins to you. “Here, shit, I’m so sorry.”

You sigh, taking the napkins from him, noting the slight tremor that persisted in his hands as you did so. Taking in a slow breath, you close your eyes and count to ten before responding. “It’s okay, Carmen. Don’t worry about it.”

And even though you tried to maintain your peace, you can hear the annoyance seeping out of your words. Carmen glances around the counter before looking back at you and your soaked jacket. You know he probably wants to apologize some more, but honestly, one more apology might land him with a punch to the gut. 

Just as he opens his mouth, you raise your free hand, silencing him immediately. You shake your head in dismissal before taking the napkins offered to you and blotting the coffee out of the fabric of your jacket. Carmen simply stood in his place, watching you, seeing if he could do anything to redeem himself in this situation. 

However, after they called your name for your drink order, you dumped the used napkins in the trash, took your drink and hightailed it out of the café without one more word to the man. 

After the coffee shop incident, you swear that you started to see Carmen everywhere. 

You needed a quiet place to plan outside of your house so you went to one of the local libraries. Guess who’s walking outside the building?

You need a late night snack and decide to hit up the corner store. Guess who’s in the refrigerated section?

Hell, you decide to stay late at The Bear for some last minute checkups? Guess who forgot to grab a few things before leaving that night?

You swear that before you hopped on The Bear train, you never even saw a glimpse of the man. Sure, you lived relatively near the restaurant, but Chicago is fucking huge, there’s no way you would run into one of the few people that you’re trying to avoid. 

Absolutely not, apparently. 

Finally finishing up the weekly budget report and estimate for the following weeks till open, you decide to take a step away from work for a second and give your brain some time to breath. 

“Hey, Syd, if anyone needs me, I’m outside taking a smoke break, ‘kay,” you yell across the restaurant, receiving a thumbs up from her from the other side of the room. “Be back in 15!”

Reaching into your bag, you pull out a pack of cigs and a lighter before heading to the back entrance of the restaurant. You place the cigarette between your lips and head to the backdoor. Stepping out and around the alley to the designated smoke corner, you fiddle with the lighter switch, hearing the light sizzle but seeing no flames emerge. 

You groan, flicking the lighter again and again and still no lig–

“Umm, uh, you need a light?”

You scream, your heart almost skipping a beat and falling out on the concrete below you. In your alarm, both your cigarette and the lighter drop on to the ground. "Shit," you mutter and throw a glance over at whoever had scared the living shit out of you and, surprise suprise . . .

There was Carmen, standing in the alley a few feet away from the door. One leg was kicked up to rest his foot against the wall behind him and a cigarette hung loosely between his fingers. His eyes trailed across you for a second, then he glanced at the cigarette on the ground before taking another draw from his own and staring out the wall in front of him.

If you had half of the energy, you would tell him off for scaring the shit out of you and book it out of the enclosed space.

Lucky for Carmen, however, you really needed that cigarette.

Reaching back into your bag once more, you pull out another cig and walk slowly over to the man. Your steps gain his attention once again and when your eyes met you gestured to the lighter hanging out of his cooking apron.

He grabs the lighter and hands it to you. As you reach out to grab it, your fingers brush against his knuckles. Some quick thought in the back of your head wishes that that physical interaction lasted a little longer, but you're quick to shoo that away into the deep recesses of your mind.

Lighting your cigarette, you hand the lighter back to him before taking a drag. Blowing the smoke out, you slid down the wall until you could lean back into a squat against it.

The two of you just stand there, in complete silence aside from the occasional cough from an improper pull. This quiet isn't nearly as awkward as the first run-in the two of you had. Maybe it's because of the nicotine or maybe it's because continuously running into Carmen over these past days had subconsciously made you a little more comfortable with his presence.

. . .

Nah, it definitely had to be the nicotine.

You glance up at Carmen, who continues to smoke even though his stick had turned into a bud a while ago. You make note of the new tattoos that run down his arms and hands, eyes stopping at the rose flower tattoo on his left hand.

You remember when he got that one done with you at the parlor for his eighteenth birthday.

Subconsciously, you rub at the matching rose on your thigh before sighing and focusing back on your cigarette. Young, dumb decisions, you think.

Above you, Carmen watches your focus retreat back and purses his lips. In all honesty, Carmen usually never finishes a whole cigarette, but he really needed an excuse to stay out here longer with you.

These past couple of days had been tormenting him just as much as it had been you, albeit for different reasons. Everytime Carmen ran into you, whether it be in that cafe or that random grocery store that one early morning, he was plagued with memories of everything that he had fucked up.

Not just the relationship that he had fucked, but the happiness that he had stolen from the both of you.

And he had so desperately been trying to apologize, but every time you saw his face, you would get that look on your own. That dread, the anxiousness, that annoyance. That anger.

Whenever he saw that expression on your face, he would get too choked up to say anything of significance. A simple 'hey" would be all that would leave his mouth. Either that or he would stutter like he was a fucking kid again and embarrass himself in front of you like he seems to be doing constantly lately.

Carmen sighs, taking a final hit from his cigarette before stomping it out on the ground. By all previous experience, Carmen would book it out of the area by now, but something in his gut was telling him to stay this time.

Glancing down at you once more, he sees that you have taken to scrolling through your phone to kill the time. He bites the corner of his lip and decides to sit against the wall like you.

Instinctively, you toss him a questioning glance but when he didn't make any move to speak or gesture towards you, you shook your head and went back to whatever video had popped up on your feed.

Fuck it, he thought.

"I'm sorry."

You halt in the middle of your smoke, nearly coughing on the fumes but managing to swallow it. You look over at Carmen inquisitively, wondering where the hell that apology came from. The dirty blonde was wringing his hands, mouth opening and shutting as if he was trying to get the words out.

"Sorry for the, uh," he mutters, casting a quick glance in your direction to assure himself that you were listening. "Sorry for the, for uh-You know I didn't-I don't know how-"

"Yo, Carmen," you interrupt the world vomit that he was spewing, tossing your cigarette down before snuffing out the light with your shoe. You center your focus back on the man next to you, who seemed to only have you in his attention. "Just say what you want to say. No bullshit."

Your blunt words seem to ground Carmen long enough for him to gather his thoughts. He nods his head rapidly in that way he does when he's clearly overwhelmed before he clears his throat. He takes in a large inhale and clears his throat, ready to speak again.

"I want to apologize. For everything. For how much of an jackoff I was back then, and for how much I am right now," Carmen stars, eyes staring solidly into yours to show just how serious he is. "I didn't deserve you, and you did nothing to deserve the way that we ended."

You feel something burn the back of your throat at the mention of the end of your relationship. The total radio silence from him for the days prior, and just when you had managed to gather the courage to ask the question of just what the hell are we doing, Carmy, you were cast aside like nothing.

He was right, you didn’t deserve that.

Pushing back the feelings bubbling up in your chest, you nod your head to signal that you were listening.

"I-I, it's no excuse, but I was really going through some serious shit. And I really felt that if I cut everyone out of my life, I could actually get a second to breathe you know," Carmen pauses and you open your mouth to speak, but he continues. "I-I just know you deserved-you deserve better. But seeing you in this restaurant day-in and day-out, working away to help my sister, my crew--help me? I just felt even more like a piece of shit."

He turns fully towards you now and you can see his eyes turning red from the emotion he was clearly holding behind his words. "You didn't deserve what I did, and you definitely don't deserve to be cleaning up my messes now."

"You deserved the world, and I'm sorry I couldn't give it to you."

His last words send a sharp pang into your chest. Here you two sat, sitting next to each other, the distance between you two seemed to be filled with words unsaid. You stare into his eyes a little longer, at a loss for what to say completely.

On one hand, you wanted to reject his apology, tell him to fuck off and leave him alone in this alleyway. He would deserve it after everything.

But he has that familiar kicked puppy-dog look in his eyes and he's chewed his lip red, and he's actually sorry.

You sigh, leaning your head back to rest against the wall behind you. Staring up at the sky, you trace the shapes of the clouds above as you collect your thoughts.

"Yeah," you start, nodding your head to yourself. Carmen tenses up at the ambiguity behind both your words and your tone. He would have to have his own head shoved up his ass if he didn't realize that you had every right to refuse his plea for forgiveness. Frankly, that's exactly what he was expecting you to do.

"Yeah, okay. I can forgive you, Berzatto."

Carmen's heart sinks into his guts, mouth slightly agape in pure shock. "You-you can?"

You give a small smile, turning your head to face the man. "Yeah, Carmen, I accept your apology."

The dirty blonde opens his mouth again but you put a hand up in the space between you, effectively shutting him up for a second.

"But," you trail, "I'm gonna forward you that dry cleaning bill from that cafe, asshat. I've been trying to get that shit out for days now."

Carmen flushes a bright red at the mention of the coffee shop run-in you two had, a broken chuckle leaving his mouth at the obvious teasing tone in your voice. You were joking with him, for the first time in years, you two had managed to glimpse at the level of comfortability that you once shared.

Carmen chuckles again, running a hand through his curls. "Yeah, well, can I raincheck that until after the restaurant starts making money? I'm kinda flat fucking broke right now."

You giggle at the honesty behind his words. "Yeah, I ran those calculations by the way. Have fun being flat broke for at least three months after The Bear opens."

"Shit," Carmen mutters, a grin still on his face.

"Yeah, shit." You nod in his direction before pushing yourself off your crouched position on the ground. "Anyway, I'm gonna head inside to get back on that shit. Fak's fucking electric guy keeps flaking on us."

Carmen's eyes follow your form as you stand, holding eye contact with you when you glance back down at him. "Yeah, yeah, I should probably meet up with Syd for the chaos menu anyway."

He hurriedly stands up, wiping his hands on his work pants. After he finishes, he looks at you once again, noting the small smile on your face. For a second, he swears his heart skips a beat.

"For the record, Carmy," you play with the nickname on your tongue, having not said it in quite some time. Carmen flushes before nodding for you to continue. The small on your face falls for a second as you look at him. "You pull that shit with me again, I'm sicking the dogs on your ass. Seriously."

Carmen clears his throat, straightening up at the more serious tone of your voice. Although you were not nearly as angry looking at him as before, he knew that you were serious. There were no more apologies after this, no more fuckups.

You look at him expectantly, waiting for some form of acknowledgment.

He nods. "Yes, chef."

After the conversation outside The Bear, you and Carmen seemed to flow together much easier than before. Granted there was the occasional stray glance casted in your direction from the man, but overall, the two of you were on much more agreeable terms.

The rest of the crew seemed to notice the absence of uncertain tension between the two of you. You explained to Tina, Richie, and Sugar that you two had simply talked it out and were no longer on "spiteful ex" terms.

Richie, being the annoying man that he is, insisted that something else must've happened--to which you responded with a firm shoulder check and yet another middle finger.

Overall, the two of you seemed to only talk about business stuff, which made it easier for conversations to flow. Less personal, more concrete talks.

"Alright, Carmy, we got that certificate of occupancy, right?" You question, running down the legal checklist once again. When you heard no response, you asked again, only to be ignored again. Finally looking up from your screen, you glance up at the man, trying to figure out what could have possibly distracted him this time.

He's glancing, moreso glaring, down at his phone, watching it ring but making no moves to pick it up. He's spaced out almost, like he's lost in his thoughts.

You clear your throat and decide to try his name again. "Carmen!"

He shoots up a little and looks at you, muttering an apology out as he clicks his phone off and slides it into his back pocket. "What were you asking?"

"Umm, I was trying to see if you got that certificate of occupancy from Cicero mailed in," you raise an eyebrow at him. "You know, the one we need to get that other big, shiny certificate that shows that we can legal conduct business in the state of Illinois? That certificate?"

"Uhh, yeah, yeah. Mailed it in the other day, yeah."

You squint at his weird responses before shaking your head and diving back into your work. "Well, on another note, I've been speaking with a liason down at the office and he said we can have our second fire suppression test in two weeks instead of the project four."

Carmen walks up to the foldable chair you were sitting in, peering over your shoulder to look at your screen. He rests his hand against the back of your chair unconsciously and you can feel the heat of his body radiating off of him. You clear your throat and lean forward a little to get some distance between the two of you.

"Who's that going to?" The man points to an email that you are in the middle of drafting. Your eyes follow and land on the email you were writing to one of your school buddies. "Oh that? I'm just messaging one of my old classmates from college about an idea I had about our issues with that retail food license thing."

Carmen humms, peeking down at you as you explained the process you were thinking of going through. Though your eyes were stuck on the screen, clicking through different documents as you continued your explanation, Carmen's eyes were glued to your face.

To him, this all felt like some weird dream that he was having. His former high school sweetheart, sitting in his restaurant, talking all kinds of smart talk that he could barely understand, practically pressed against him. Although he didn't move over to your chair with the intent to press against you, he definitely noticed the proximity that you two shared.

Life had been a whirlwind these past weeks, but he felt that when he was near you that a lot of those anxieties he often has screaming in his head quieted down a little. He tried to chalk it up to the confidence that he had in your skills, but even though you are incredibly talented in your work, he knew that it was something more than that.

Something that he had to swallow down.

"Carmy, you motherfucker, are you even listening to me?" You call out, turning more in your chair and fixing him with an annoyed glare. Carmen swallows before nodding his head. "Ye-yeah, you have a plan to get that retail food license and alcohol seller's license at once right?"

You hum, giving him a once over again before turning in your seat. "Exactly. I think that my buddy Stephen can help us with that fire suppression test, he knows a thing or two--"

Carmen's eyes trace down your eyes, nose, and lips, noting the signature bite marks you left on your bottom one. He runs a tongue across his own before carding a hand through his hair to collect himself.

He was so fucked.

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[uhohdad]

Just thinking about how Konig would be so helpful around the house.

I just know his love language is acts of service, he’d never let you get your hands dirty.

Your car needs work? Don’t even think about taking it to a shop because he’s got it. He’ll come in after all sweaty and covered in oil and you’d get the urge to repay your mechanic. 😏

If anything breaks in the house don’t worry, he’s on it. He’s got all the tools he needs, always a prepared man. The roof starts leaking? No problem. Water heater explodes? New one installed same day. A/C blows a fuse? You won’t be hot for long, liebe. Very Sam from Holes vibes “I can fix that, ja?”

In the winter months he’ll put your favorite blanket in the dryer with the rest of your laundry, and in between folding he’ll visit you with the warmed blanket and wrap you up in it 🥹

In the summer months he mows the lawn with his shirt off, muscles glistening with sweat while he works under the hot sun. You always offer to just pay the kid down the street to do it, but Konig insists.

He’s also in charge of dusting because he’s the only one tall enough to reach the top of your bookshelves

Mmm Konig watering the house plants.

Konig being a king of the kitchen too? He’s constantly offering to feed you, he’d never let you go hungry. very Italian grandmother vibes. loves to make you some of his favorite meals from home. even has an apron that barely covers his massive torso.

Konig bringing you cups of coffee/tea on rainy lazy days. 💕

[aturnoftheearth]

hi everyone i love lord huron

hi everyone i love lord huron