need some advice on plumbing stuff for DIY bathroom fix-up

"Curious if anyone's tried those dust separator buckets - worth the investment or just another gimmick?"

I've used a dust separator bucket setup quite a bit, and honestly, they're pretty effective. They won't catch every single particle, but they'll significantly cut down on filter clogging and motor strain. Just make sure your hoses are sealed tight; leaks can really drop their efficiency. Has anyone tried hooking one up to a smaller shop vac instead of a full-sized one? Wondering if the suction power holds up...

I've been skeptical about those separator buckets myself - seems like another thing to clutter up the workspace. But if they really do help with filter life, might reconsider. Curious though, does the bucket size itself make a noticeable difference in performance? Like, would a bigger bucket mean less frequent emptying, or does it start to affect suction after a certain point...?

I've messed around with different bucket sizes myself, and honestly, bigger does mean less frequent emptying, which is nice. But after a certain point - like going from 5-gal to something huge - you start noticing a drop in suction. It's subtle at first, but definitely there. I'd say stick to something manageable; too big just becomes awkward anyway. Plus, storage space matters... learned that the hard way.

Yeah, totally get what you're saying about the suction drop-off. I tried upgrading to a massive bucket once thinking I'd save myself some hassle, but it just ended up being a pain to lug around and store. Plus, the suction definitely took a hit - subtle, but noticeable enough to bug me. You're spot on about finding that sweet spot between convenience and practicality... lesson learned for sure.

I've definitely been there with the oversized bucket hassle - seems like a good idea until you actually have to move it around or stash it somewhere. Speaking of suction drop-off, have you checked the hose diameter you're using? Sometimes people overlook that. A wider hose can help maintain better suction over longer distances, but too wide and you start losing velocity... tricky balance there.

Also, curious - are you using any kind of inline filter or strainer setup? I've seen setups where folks add filters thinking it'll protect their vacuums, but then they end up with reduced suction because the filter clogs faster than expected. Had a buddy who swore by his DIY filter contraption until he realized he was cleaning the filter more often than the actual mess he was vacuuming up. Pretty ironic, right?

Another thing I've noticed: hose length can be a sneaky culprit. I once tried extending mine way beyond recommended length thinking it'd save me from dragging the vacuum around. Ended up with suction so weak I might as well have used a straw. Learned that lesson pretty quick.

What kind of setup are you currently working with? Maybe there's an easy tweak or two that could improve your situation without breaking the bank or your back...

"hose length can be a sneaky culprit."

Yeah, hose length is often overlooked. I've seen plenty of setups where people add extensions thinking it'll help - usually does the opposite. Shortening it even by a few feet can make a noticeable difference, worth a shot imo.

For the wet/dry-vac setup, I’d check for an air leak or restriction before changing the hose size again. With the vacuum switched off and unplugged, check the hose and connections, then make sure the filter is the type specified for the job and isn’t clogged.

What vacuum, hose length and attachments are you using? Comparing that setup with the manual seems more useful than assuming the same change that helps a water hose will improve vacuum airflow.

“hose length can be a sneaky culprit.”

That's worth checking on the wet/dry-vac setup, alongside an air leak, blockage or unsuitable filter. I'd compare the hose length, diameter and attachments with the vacuum's instructions before cutting or replacing anything. Has anyone actually identified where the airflow is being lost in this setup yet?

Switching back to the bathroom water-supply side for a moment, pipe sizing, restrictions and the condition of the shutoff valves are worth considering before blaming the pipe material for weak flow. That’s a separate check from the vacuum hose and filter discussion above.

I’d identify where the flow drops and what fittings are installed before choosing parts. A bathroom renovation is a good opportunity to sort out an existing problem, but guessing at a bigger pipe or another valve can miss the cause.

Totally agree on those shut-off valves - had one clog up on me mid-project, nightmare. A couple more things I've noticed:

- Watch out for overly tight pipe bends; sharp angles can really kill your water pressure.
- Also, don't skimp on thread tape...small leaks add up fast.

Good points on the pipe bends - I've seen people try to squeeze tight corners to save space, and then wonder why their shower barely trickles. Another thing worth mentioning: pay attention to pipe materials. I switched to PEX a few years back, and honestly, it's been a game changer. Easier to work with, fewer joints to leak, and it holds up better in freezing temps (speaking from experience here, unfortunately...).

Also, about the thread tape - I agree it's essential, but don't go nuts wrapping it either. I've seen people pile it on too thick, and then struggle to get fittings threaded properly. Just a couple wraps, neatly done, usually does the trick. And if you're dealing with older plumbing, definitely have some penetrating oil handy. Rusted fittings can turn a simple job into a weekend-long headache real quick.

Totally agree on the PEX - switched over myself a while back and haven't looked back since. One thing I'd add though: don't cheap out on fittings. Seen some folks grab the bargain-bin connectors, then wonder why they're chasing leaks a month later. Also, if you're dealing with older galvanized pipes, sometimes it's better to bite the bullet and replace sections entirely rather than fight rusted fittings all weekend... learned that one the hard way.

Good points there, especially about fittings. I've seen a couple DIY jobs where folks tried to reuse old connectors or went for the cheapest ones they could find... never ends well. Also, if you're tackling galvanized pipes, wear eye protection and gloves - rust flakes and metal shards aren't fun. And definitely shut off the main water valve before you start cutting into anything. Learned early on that a little extra caution saves a lot of headaches later.

"And definitely shut off the main water valve before you start cutting into anything."

Can't stress this enough. Seen too many flooded bathrooms from folks skipping that step. Also, keep a bucket handy - there's always some residual water left in the pipes even after shutting off the valve. And if you're dealing with older plumbing, have a backup plan ready. Sometimes those old fittings just crumble when you try to loosen them... better to expect it than be caught off guard.

Good call on the bucket. Learned that one the hard way myself. A few years back, I was helping a buddy redo his bathroom, and even after shutting off the main valve, we got a surprise shower from residual water trapped in the pipes. And yeah, older fittings can be a nightmare - had one literally snap off in my hand once. Like you said:

"Sometimes those old fittings just crumble when you try to loosen them..."

Better safe than sorry, folks.

Did you guys try opening up faucets at the lowest points after shutting off the main valve? Usually helps drain out most of that residual water and prevents those surprise showers. Also, did you use penetrating oil on those old fittings beforehand? I know some folks skip it, but giving them a good soak can save you from snapping them off in your hand. Learned that one after spending half a day drilling out a broken fitting - never again. And speaking of buckets, ever tried using a shallow plastic tray instead? Sometimes easier to slide under tight spaces, especially if you're dealing with cramped cabinets or awkward angles. Just a thought...

"ever tried using a shallow plastic tray instead? Sometimes easier to slide under tight spaces"

That's a solid tip right there. I used to wrestle with buckets under my sink until I accidentally knocked one over and flooded half the cabinet - lesson learned the hard way. Now I keep an old baking tray handy; it's shallow enough to slip under tight spots and wide enough to catch drips from multiple angles. Also, totally agree on the penetrating oil. A quick spray and letting it sit overnight has saved me from plenty of headaches.

Good points, but I'd be careful with baking trays - metal can scratch up porcelain or acrylic surfaces pretty easily. Maybe try a silicone mat or rubber liner underneath to avoid damage? Learned that one the hard way myself...

Fair enough, silicone mats are handy, but honestly, I've never had much trouble with metal trays myself. A couple things I've noticed:

- If you're careful and don't slide the tray around too much, scratches aren't really an issue. I mean, it's not like you're ice skating in there...
- Silicone mats can sometimes trap moisture underneath, especially if you're working around plumbing and water. Had a friend who ended up with some moldy surprises after leaving one down too long.
- Personally, I just toss an old towel or thick rag under the tray - cheap, easy, and absorbs any drips or spills.

Not knocking silicone mats entirely - they're great for baking cookies - but for plumbing DIY stuff, simpler might be better. Just my two cents from someone who's spent way too many weekends crouched under sinks...

I get where you're coming from with the towel trick - I've done that myself plenty of times. But honestly, after one too many soggy towels and a few mildew scares, I switched to something a bit different. Now I just use a cheap plastic boot tray (like the ones you put muddy shoes on by the door). They're super easy to clean, don't trap moisture like silicone mats can, and they're sturdy enough that you won't accidentally kick them out of place when you're crawling around under there.

Plus, if you're eco-conscious like me, you can usually find trays made from recycled plastic, which feels like a small win. Towels are great until they're soaked through and dripping all over the place... been there, done that. Boot tray's been my go-to ever since. Just my experience though - whatever keeps those knees dry and mold away works, right?