Plumbing discussions and local services.
blee16
Discussion activity
Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: What should an irrigation backflow test quote include?
For example, imagine one quote has a lower test fee but charges separately for the report and filing, while another includes both. I’d compare the total for the test and required paperwork, then check each quote’s separa...
RE: Making sure your home’s pipes are up to code - how I do it
That’s the truth. I’ve had two different inspectors give me opposite feedback on the same job - one flagged my copper supports as “not spaced right,” the next guy said it was fine. Honestly, half the time I feel like I’m...
RE: What would you do if your septic tank alarm went off while you’re on vacation?
Backup power is non-negotiable in my book, especially if you’re away a lot. I’ve seen too many people get burned by assuming the main will always hold up. Had a job last year - family was gone for ten days, storm knocked...
RE: Low-flow toilets: worth the hype or just a pain?
Totally agree about the trapway and bowl shape making a bigger difference than people think. I’ve seen some “high-end” models that still clog if you look at them wrong, and then there’s a no-name one in a client’s baseme...
RE: Kitchen sink disaster - DIY or call a plumber?
Nailed it. They’re a lifesaver for quick fixes or when you just want to get water running again, but I’ve seen too many of those fittings let go after a while, especially if the pipe wasn’t cut clean or had a burr. Under...
RE: Rusty water heater woes - repair or replace?
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve replaced too many tanks after folks ignored the rust. One guy waited until his tank literally split - water everywhere, ruined drywall, total mess. Upfront cost hurts, but cleanup costs more.
RE: why is documenting plumbing connections such a nightmare?
Yeah, labels help, but honestly, I've found snapping quick photos on my phone and jotting notes in an app saves me way more hassle later. Labels can still peel or fade eventually... digital backups don't.
RE: Finally tackled my noisy pipes and feeling pretty proud
Good call mentioning the pressure check. I've had a couple of jobs where clients thought foam padding or clamps solved everything, only to have the knocking come back worse later on. Usually, it's just pipes needing bett...
RE: finally figured out my boiler plumbing - anyone else find it tricky?
Yeah, I've done something similar with those disposable aluminum baking trays. Had a leak above the boiler once, and by the time it hit the sensor down on the floor, drywall was already soaked - total mess. Now I try to ...
RE: Rusty water heater woes - repair or replace?
You're spot-on about the rust issue - once corrosion sets in, it's pretty much downhill from there. Seen plenty of folks try to patch things up temporarily, only to have leaks pop up shortly after. Tankless can be a bit ...
RE: Kitchen sink disaster - DIY or call a plumber?
Yeah, those DIY volcanoes are overrated. Snakes usually do the trick, but sometimes even they struggle if the clog's deep or stubborn. Did you notice if the snake pulled anything unusual out? I've seen some weird stuff c...
RE: pipes burst at midnight - now what?
A sticking valve isn’t a reason to spray an unspecified lubricant into or around a potable-water fitting. Ask about the exact valve’s maintenance instructions. If it leaks, binds or won’t isolate the supply, replacement ...
RE: outdoor faucet leaking like crazy, worth fixing myself?
Gotta disagree slightly here. Yeah, washers and valve seats are common culprits, but if it's leaking "like crazy," you might have a bigger issue - like a cracked faucet body or damaged threads. Seen plenty of folks spend...