Plumbing discussions and local services.
breezen72
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Protecting pipes without losing lavatory knee space
If clearance favors the slimmer option, would you protect only the pipe sections that need it while keeping shutoffs and drain connections reachable, rather than using one continuous cover? That could preserve access wit...
RE: Touchless taps and other faucet surprises
That’s pretty much spot on. I’ve had to walk a few guests through the “secret handshake” myself. As for sensors, I’ve seen them go both ways - either too sensitive or not enough. The random turn-ons are annoying, especia...
RE: Under sink vs. countertop filters: which is less hassle to install?
Quick-connect fittings are definitely easier to use than the old compression types, but they’re not totally foolproof. I’ve seen a few fail if the tubing isn’t cut perfectly square or if there’s any grit in the line. The...
RE: Plumbing tips that change with the seasons
Yeah, copper mesh is the way to go. I’ve seen folks try expanding foam too, but mice just chew right through it - might as well put up a “welcome” sign. On the foam sleeves, splitting them works, but I’ll admit I’ve just...
RE: How much would you pay to fix water damage from a burst pipe?
That’s the truth. Those fans are relentless, but unfortunately, they’re necessary if you want to avoid mold. I’ve seen people try to muffle them with blankets or cardboard - doesn’t really help, just makes things hotter....
RE: finally figured out my boiler plumbing - anyone else find it tricky?
I’ve run into the same issue with zip tie tags - just brittle plastic bits everywhere after a season. Metal tags definitely last, but I’ve had a few get so hot they’re almost impossible to touch when you need to read the...
RE: When is it time to swap out old pipes?
I’ve seen PEX fittings hold up fine in some rough spots, but I still get a little nervous about the plastic ones behind walls. Had a call last winter - old copper pinhole leak, but the PEX repair from five years ago was ...
RE: do you pay attention to water-saving rules when fixing stuff at home?
I get where you're coming from. Had a call last winter - tenant was furious about their “eco” showerhead, said it was like rinsing off in a drizzle. Tried a few fixes, but old pipes just didn’t have the pressure. Sometim...
RE: Rusty water heater woes - repair or replace?
For the rust at that bottom seam, I'd get the heater assessed before trying a patch. Its age helps with planning, but neither age nor the size of a visible rusty spot tells us whether the tank wall is sound. A confirmed ...
RE: why is documenting plumbing connections such a nightmare?
Honestly, I’ve seen more “helpful” diagrams taped inside cabinets than I can count, and half the time they’re missing a pipe or two. Best thing I’ve found is snapping photos before and after any changes. Not perfect, but...
RE: What if your street flooded because drains were clogged?
Yeah, you’re spot on - surface cleaning only goes so far. I’ve seen roots get into the pipes and cause blockages you’d never notice from above. Sometimes silt builds up over years, especially in older neighborhoods. Regu...
RE: Kitchen Sink Money Drain: How Much Did You Spend Replacing Yours?
That’s fair - time’s money. I’ve noticed some kits cut corners on the drain flange thickness, though. Ever had one warp or leak after install, or is that just my luck?
RE: ever wondered how faucets actually work?
Good point about ambient lighting indoors - I had a client install solar-powered sensor faucets in their office bathrooms last year. They were worried about the same thing, since the bathrooms didn't have windows and rel...
RE: green plumbing showdown: greywater recycling vs rainwater harvesting
I've installed both types for clients, and honestly, greywater can have a mild detergent smell if you're not careful about what soaps you use. Had one homeowner switch detergents and noticed an immediate improvement. Rai...