10 Tips For Maintaining A Killer Blog
Hibu Websites • March 29, 2021

A blog consists of frequently, new posts or sometimes called articles, in reverse chronological order. So basically, the latest post appears first on a page. Plus, a blog allows for reader engagement. There’s usually a section at the bottom of the blog post for readers to comment and have further discussions with other readers. 


Here are some tips for you to help you maintain an interesting, relevant and reader-friendly blog that adds real value to your websites.


1. DESCRIBE THE BLOG RIGHT, RIGHT FROM THE START

Think about what you’re going to blog about and write it down in a few short sentences. This description will help you stay aligned when you write posts and let your readers know what they to expect.


2. CREATE A SCHEDULE

Schedules work. They keep you on track and focused. They give you structure and goals. If you’ve ever run a race, you know that having a training schedule (and sticking to it) is critical to success. So set a schedule that works for you (publish a new post once a week, twice a week, once every two weeks) and stick to it.


3. OPTIMIZE YOUR BLOG FOR SEO

A huge incentive for adding a blog to your site is to have organic content that brings visitors to the site (without paying for them). When you add a blog to your site, you’re adding fresh content that can bring organic traffic, but only if search engines notice the content.


To ensure that your blog is optimized for search engines (SEO), add metadata to individual posts, alt text to post images, use keywords in the post title, and more. Take the time to fill in post descriptions (you’re automatically prompted to do) and make sure that all the new content you’re adding is put to good use.


4. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

Like many things in life, the more you do it, the better you’ll be. The best way of writing well is writing regularly. But this doesn’t mean you should start by writing for several hours every day. (That’s a sure recipe for burnout.)


Again, think about sport. If you start training for a marathon by running for 3 hours on your first day out, you’ll burn out quickly (and probably injure yourself). So practice moderation and set reasonable goals (for example, start by writing 500 words a day).


5. READ BLOGS TO WRITE BETTER BLOGS

There are hundreds of blogs that are all about blogging. Subscribe to a couple and read them on a regular basis. This can be part of the schedule mentioned in #2. Reading about writing is a great way to improve the quality of what you write.


6. WRITE FOR YOUR AUDIENCE

It may sound obvious, but it’s super important. Think about the people you want to reach and write specifically to them. If you have a website for a flower store, think about topics that visitors will be interested in. For example:

  • This Month's Hottest Blooms
  • What These 6 Flowers Mean
  • Caring for Cut Flowers
  • Tired of Roses? Consider These Alternatives


7. GIVE VALUE IN EVERY POST

People who read your posts deserve to get something out of them. Whether it’s tips, advice, case studies or personal stories, readers want to get something in return for the time they invest in reading. So choose topics that are relevant and write good stuff.


8. EDIT WHAT YOU WRITE (OR HAVE SOMEONE DO IT FOR YOU)

Though you may find it easy to write a blog post, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to review and revise it. Have a colleague or friend review every post before publishing. If you’re a one-person show or don’t know anyone who can look over your work, do it yourself a day or two after you finish writing. Don’t publish anything without reviewing it at least once.


9. PUT YOURSELF IN YOUR AUDIENCE’S SHOES

Think about the type of experience you want when you read a blog. Do you want a great title and fluff for content? Do you want a popup to appear as soon as you open the blog? Do you want to see the same blog content week after week, just with a different title?


Think about the things you like in your favorite blogs and try to emulate them in what you produce.


10. DON’T APPROACH YOUR BLOG LIKE A CRASH DIET

Crash diets are notorious for being unsustainable in the long term. Don’t let your blog be a crash diet. Think of it as a way of life, something you’re going to pursue for a long time. Something that’s fun and worth the investment.

If you stick to a healthy blogging approach, you’ll be able to look back on your posts after 6 months, 12 months and more and feel good about what you’ve written.

Twin Falls’ Drain Cleaning Experts: Say Goodbye to Clogs with Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical

By 7016621789 • June 18, 2025
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Reliable Air Conditioning Services in Sun Valley, Idaho – Keep Cool with Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical

By 7016621789 • June 18, 2025
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Avoid a Septic Emergency: Warning Signs for Oregon Coast Homeowners

By 7016621789 • May 20, 2025
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Septic Tank Pumping on the Oregon Coast: How Often Should You Do It?

By 7016621789 • May 20, 2025
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Is Your Plumbing Ready for Spring in South Clatsop County?

By 7016621789 • April 21, 2025
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Vacation Rentals & Septic Systems on the Oregon Coast: What You Need to Know Before Peak Season

By 7016621789 • April 21, 2025
As the busy vacation season ramps up along the Oregon Coast — from Astoria to Arch Cape, short-term rentals in places like Gearhart, Seaside, and Cannon Beach start seeing a major uptick in guest traffic. But while bookings go up, so does the strain on something most rental owners forget about: 👉 Your septic system. At Evans Septic, we specialize in helping coastal homeowners and vacation rental managers stay ahead of septic issues before they turn into peak-season disasters. Here's what you need to know to keep your rental running — and avoid a costly mess. 🚨 Why Vacation Rentals Are Harder on Septic Systems Unlike full-time homes, vacation rentals often face irregular — but intense — usage. A home built for 4 people might suddenly be hosting 8 or more for a weekend. Multiply that over a few back-to-back bookings, and you’ve got: Excessive water usage Increased solid waste Higher risk of flushing harmful materials And unlike plumbing clogs that might just slow things down, a septic system backup can lead to raw sewage, foul odors, and canceled bookings. 🧰 How to Prepare Your Septic System Before Guests Arrive 1. Schedule a Pre-Season Septic Inspection We recommend all vacation rentals in Seaside, Gearhart, and Cannon Beach get a professional inspection before Memorial Day. This quick check-up can identify: Full tanks Root intrusion Drainfield saturation Leaks or broken baffles ✔️ Evans Septic offers full inspections with clear, written reports — perfect for STR owners and property managers. 2. Pump Your Tank if It’s Been 2+ Years Even if the system seems to be working fine, an overloaded tank can become a ticking time bomb. Vacation rental properties should be pumped more frequently than full-time residences, especially if: The property sleeps more than 6 guests It sees heavy seasonal turnover You haven't pumped it in the last 2 years 📍 We provide pumping services across the Oregon Coast — including Astoria, Warrenton, Arch Cape, and beyond. 3. Leave Clear Septic Guidelines for Guests Most guests don’t realize they’re staying in a home with a septic system — and will treat your plumbing like a city sewer line. That’s why clear guest communication is key. We recommend: A sign in the bathroom that reads: “This home is on a septic system. Please DO NOT flush wipes, feminine products, or anything other than toilet paper.” A small placard near kitchen sinks advising against food grease and harsh chemicals. Want a printable sign? We’ll send you a free downloadable template when you book a service with us. 4. Install Effluent Filters or Alarms Effluent filters help trap solids before they enter your drainfield, while high-level alarms can alert you before an overflow happens. These are especially helpful for absentee owners or property managers who aren’t on site. 🛠️ We install and maintain both — just ask during your next service. 🧽 What to Do If a Septic Emergency Happens Mid-Booking If your rental guests report: Slow or gurgling drains Bad smells from bathrooms Sewage in showers or the yard... Call Evans Septic immediately. We provide emergency service to all towns along the coast and will discreetly and professionally resolve the issue — often the same day. 🌊 Evans Septic: Your Oregon Coast Septic Partner ✅ Based in Gearhart ✅ Serving Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, and all coastal communities ✅ Emergency pumping, inspections, maintenance, and upgrades ✅ Family-owned and trusted for over 50 years Book Now Before the Rush Peak season is coming. Don’t wait for a call from an angry guest to realize your septic system needs attention.

What to Do If Your Basement Floods in Seaside, Oregon (or Anywhere on the North Coast)

By 7016621789 • April 21, 2025
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5 Common Plumbing Problems on the Oregon Coast (and How to Fix Them)

By 7016621789 • April 21, 2025
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Can Septic Systems Freeze? What Homeowners in Cannon Beach Need to Know

By 7016621789 • March 6, 2025
Living in Cannon Beach, Oregon, you’re used to the damp, salty air, breathtaking ocean views, and the occasional winter chill. But when temperatures drop, many homeowners start asking: Can my septic system freeze? The short answer? Yes, septic systems can freeze—but with the right precautions, you can prevent it from happening. Let’s break it down: why septic systems freeze, what happens when they do, and how you can keep yours running smoothly all winter long. Why Do Septic Systems Freeze? A septic system relies on warmth and bacteria to break down waste. When temperatures dip too low, especially for extended periods, certain parts of the system can freeze, causing blockages, backups, and even damage to pipes and tanks. In Cannon Beach, winters are typically mild compared to other parts of Oregon, but sudden cold snaps can still pose a risk. Here’s what makes a septic system more vulnerable to freezing: 🚰 Lack of regular use – If you have a vacation home in Cannon Beach that sits empty for long periods, the lack of water flow can lead to freezing. 💧 Poor insulation – Shallow or exposed pipes and tanks are more likely to freeze if they aren’t properly covered by soil or vegetation. 🌊 Water leaks – Dripping faucets or running toilets can allow a slow trickle of water to freeze inside pipes, creating blockages. 🚜 Compacted soil – If the soil above your septic system gets compacted (from vehicles, foot traffic, or heavy snow), it can reduce insulation, making it easier for frost to penetrate. What Happens If My Septic System Freezes? A frozen septic system isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to major problems, including: 💩 Sewage backups – If wastewater can’t flow through frozen pipes, it could back up into your home. (Not exactly the ocean breeze you were hoping for.) 🛠️ Cracked pipes or tanks – Ice expands, and if water freezes inside pipes, it can lead to cracks or bursts. 🚫 Drain field failure – If your drain field freezes, it won’t be able to filter wastewater properly, causing potential contamination and environmental issues. How to Prevent Your Septic System from Freezing Good news! With a little preparation, you can keep your septic system safe from freezing—even in colder weather. Here’s what to do: ✅ Use your system regularly – Running warm water through your drains helps prevent freezing. If you have a seasonal home, consider scheduling periodic check-ins during winter months. ✅ Fix leaks ASAP – Even a small trickle can contribute to ice buildup. Inspect faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks. ✅ Insulate exposed pipes and tanks – Cover vulnerable areas with mulch, straw, or insulation blankets to trap heat. ✅ Let the grass grow over your septic tank – A natural layer of vegetation acts as insulation. Avoid mowing too short before winter. ✅ Avoid compacting the ground – Don’t park vehicles or heavy equipment over your septic system, as this can reduce insulation and increase the risk of freezing. What to Do If Your Septic System Freezes If your septic system does freeze, do NOT try to thaw it with an open flame or hot water—this can cause damage and make the problem worse. Instead, follow these steps: 1️⃣ Stop using water immediately – Reduce wastewater production to prevent backups. 2️⃣ Call a septic professional – We’re based near Cannon Beach and can assess the problem safely. 3️⃣ Use temporary heating options – In some cases, adding heat (like wrapping pipes in heating tape) may help thaw minor freezes. Need Septic Help in Cannon Beach? We’ve Got You Covered At [Your Company Name], we specialize in septic system maintenance, inspections, and winter-proofing in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, and surrounding areas. Whether you need a pre-winter checkup, emergency service, or just advice on keeping your system in top shape, we’re here to help. Call us today to schedule an inspection and keep your septic system running smoothly—no matter the season! 🚽❄️

The Scoop on Septic: Everything You (Never) Wanted to Know About Your Septic System in Cannon Beach, Oregon

By 7016621789 • March 6, 2025
Let’s be real—septic systems aren’t exactly the most glamorous topic. But if you own a home or business in Cannon Beach, Oregon, and you’re not thinking about your septic system, you might end up with a very unpleasant surprise. (And trust us, nobody wants a surprise when it comes to septic tanks.) So, let’s talk all things septic—how to keep your system happy, when to pump it, and why ignoring it is a very bad idea. First Things First: How Does a Septic System Work? Septic systems are basically private wastewater treatment plants for homes and businesses that aren’t connected to city sewer lines. Instead of your waste heading to a municipal treatment facility, it gets processed in a buried tank and then filtered into a drain field. When it’s working well, it’s an eco-friendly, low-maintenance solution. When it’s not working well… let’s just say it becomes everyone’s problem real fast. Signs Your Septic System is Screaming for Help Most people don’t think about their septic tank until it starts acting up, but the warning signs are always there: 🚽 Slow drains throughout the house? It’s not just your teenager’s 45-minute showers. 💩 A certain odor creeping into your yard? Nature’s way of telling you, "Hey, pump the tank!" 🌊 Puddles forming in your yard when it hasn’t rained? That’s not a new feature—it’s a problem. If you notice any of these, it’s time to call in the pros (that’s us!). How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank in Cannon Beach? The magic number is every 3-5 years for most homes, but that depends on: ✔️ The size of your tank ✔️ How many people are using it (big families = more flushing) ✔️ What’s going down your drains (hint: only flush the three P’s—pee, poo, and (toilet) paper) If you’re running a vacation rental in Cannon Beach, your system probably gets more use than a regular home, which means you might need more frequent pumping. What You Should Never Put in Your Septic System Septic tanks are tough, but they’re not invincible. Here’s what not to send down your pipes unless you want a messy, expensive problem: ❌ Grease and cooking oils (they clog everything) ❌ "Flushable" wipes (spoiler: they’re not flushable) ❌ Coffee grounds (bad for your plumbing, worse for your septic) ❌ Harsh chemicals (they kill the good bacteria your system needs) Why Choose Us for Septic Services in Cannon Beach? We’re not just here for emergency backups—we’re your go-to team for regular maintenance, pumping, and keeping your system in top shape. Being located nearby means we can get to you fast, whether you’re in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, or anywhere in the area. Need a pump-out? Wondering if your drain field is okay? Just want to talk septic (hey, we don’t judge)? Give us a call. We’re here to help—so you can flush your worries away.