Plumbing discussions and local services.
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RE: Limited roof space for solar hot water
Imagine a household that uses most of its hot water in the evening. I’d want to compare how each setup handles that timing: both rely on stored hot water, so the useful question is whether the system can replenish the ta...
RE: How should a backflow-prevention test quote be itemized?
Jeff’s note about the shutoff valves operating normally raises one scope question: does the test price include exercising those valves, or only testing the backflow assembly? I’d want that distinction stated, along with ...
RE: Half flush never seems to work right - am I missing something?
Honestly, I’ve never trusted those “one size fits all” kits either. Half the time, the cable tension is just off, or the button gets stuck halfway down. Did you check if the float’s catching on anything? Sometimes there’...
RE: Choosing between in-kitchen and underground grease traps - what would you do?
I get the appeal of “out of sight, out of mind,” but I’ve seen a few cases where folks forget about those underground traps until there’s a backup. That’s the tricky part - do people actually keep up with cleanings when...
RE: Drain upkeep tips after seeing that crazy news story
Honestly, I’m not convinced the baking soda and vinegar combo does much beyond making a fizzy show. It’s not really strong enough to break down grease or hair, at least in my experience. Enzyme cleaners are decent, but I...
RE: Kitchen Sink Money Drain: How Much Did You Spend Replacing Yours?
Ever had a metal strainer seize up or corrode, though? I’ve seen a few that were almost welded in place after a couple years. Makes me wonder if there’s a “best” brand or if it’s just luck of the draw. Do you stick with ...
RE: Handy shortcuts for finding plumbing info quick
I've actually tried something similar once, but honestly, I'm not sure how reliable it is. Wrapped a cloth soaked in blue food coloring around a joint I suspected was leaking, left it overnight, and the next morning ever...
RE: Finally tackled my noisy pipes and feeling pretty proud
Fair enough, but wouldn't it depend on how loose we're talking? I've seen pipes that vibrate randomly just from minor pressure changes in the system - not always right after shutting off an appliance. Also, did you notic...
RE: just read about a guy flooding his house trying to DIY install bathroom fixtures
Yeah, I get where you're coming from, but how do you know when you're actually in over your head? I've seen plenty of folks who think they're doing fine until suddenly they're ankle-deep in water. A couple years back, I ...
RE: water heater plumbing... am I the only one confused?
Gotta ask - did those videos make it look suspiciously easy? Because plumbing is one of those things that seems simple until you're knee-deep in water and wondering why you ever thought DIY was a good idea. Copper pipes ...