Plumbing discussions and local services.
dwright49
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Solar water-heater quotes need to spell out the roof work
I wouldn’t treat “commissioning included” as enough detail by itself. It’s easier to compare if the quote says whether the checks include the backup-heater connection and confirm the system works as a whole, rather than ...
RE: Navigating city hall: a plumbing permit adventure
That’s the truth. The best trick I’ve learned is to bring both printed and digital copies of everything - permits, plans, even old emails if you have them. Sometimes just having a paper trail (literally) helps them decid...
RE: Touchless taps and other faucet surprises
Yeah, running a line for an outlet under the sink isn’t as intimidating as it sounds, especially if you’re already tearing things up for a reno. I’ve seen a lot of people get frustrated with battery changes - seems like ...
RE: When your heater ignores the thermostat: what would you do?
That “little buzz” is always a wake-up call, right? I usually start by checking for loose or corroded wire connections at the furnace control board - seen a lot of heaters just ignore the thermostat because of a bad term...
RE: When is it time to swap out old pipes?
I’ve worked with a few of those “eco” wraps - some are better than others, honestly. The ones made from recycled denim or wool do a decent job for basic insulation, but for UV protection, you really want something with a...
RE: When your water heater goes rogue: quick fixes and hacks
I get where you’re coming from - sometimes a leaky tank just feels like a lost cause. But before you toss the whole thing, there are a couple of things worth checking out, especially if the leak isn’t a full-on gusher. D...
RE: Why does swapping out a busted ice maker cost so much?
Honestly, I get where you’re coming from - universal kits can save a chunk of change if you don’t mind a little extra work. Just double-check the wiring diagrams and test everything before buttoning it up. I’ve seen folk...
RE: Making sure your home’s pipes are up to code - how I do it
I'd add pipe supports and fixture supply connectors to that home-check checklist. For support spacing, check the exact pipe material, size, orientation and support system against the manufacturer's instructions and local...
RE: Choosing between in-kitchen and underground grease traps - what would you do?
I’ve dealt with both setups, and honestly, I lean toward the in-kitchen trap too. Had a job last year where a restaurant’s underground trap got clogged by roots from a neighbor’s old elm - took two days, a backhoe, and a...
RE: How much did you pay to fix your fridge's ice maker?
You’re not alone - saddle valves are notorious for slow leaks that go undetected until there’s already damage. I’ve seen more than a few kitchens where the first sign was warped flooring or a musty smell. Honestly, I wis...
RE: my shower's gone rogue and sprays everywhere but down
I totally get the frustration - sometimes it feels like you’re fighting a losing battle with those old shower heads. Vinegar’s a classic trick, but yeah, it’s not a magic bullet for every situation. I’ve seen a few fixtu...
RE: When your living room is a sauna but your bedroom's an igloo
Funny you mention that - years ago, I spent hours sealing up every drafty spot in my old duplex, but the living room still felt like a sauna. Turned out, the big recliner was blocking half the vent. Once I slid it over, ...
RE: Getting more hot water from my solar heater - what am I missing?
Tweaking the timer definitely helped at my place, but I get what you mean about heat loss overnight. I wrapped my tank with a thermal blanket last winter - noticed the water stayed hotter till morning, but it wasn’t a m...
RE: Finally won the battle against invading tree roots
Yeah, I hear you on the foams - they’re kind of a band-aid, especially if you’ve got those old clay lines. I’ve seen folks get a year or two out of them, but if the roots are determined, they’ll just find another way in....
RE: What if your street flooded because drains were clogged?
Honestly, clearing the top layer is usually all it takes to keep water moving. If you’re lifting grates though, I’d use a flathead screwdriver or small pry bar and always watch your fingers - seen too many folks pinch th...