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RE: Who pays when a water-main break causes a household leak?
There are two different situations here: turning off water-using fixtures and closing the interior main valve. With fixtures off but the supply open, meter movement can indicate water use or leakage somewhere downstream ...
RE: Who pays when a water-main break causes a household leak?
For anyone dealing with a possible utility-related water-damage claim, preserving evidence alone may not protect the claim. Ask the utility whether it has a formal damage-claim process, where notice must be sent, and whe...
RE: When your heater acts up: quick fixes that saved my winter
Honestly, I’ve seen mastic last longer in older homes, especially where there’s a lot of vibration or shifting. Foil tape’s easier for quick fixes, but it can peel if the surface isn’t spotless. I get being wary of “smar...
RE: When your basement smells like rotten eggs: weird facts about wastewater mishaps
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve run into a few weird cases where water alone didn’t cut it. Had a call last winter - lady swore she ran water through her floor drain every month, but the smell kept coming back. ...
RE: Making sure your home’s pipes are up to code - how I do it
You’re right about elbows and valves being the first to freeze - seen that more than once during late-night calls. Curious, have you ever tried those heat tape wraps for problem spots? I’ve had mixed results, especially ...
RE: Touchless taps and other faucet surprises
Yeah, sensors can be unpredictable. I’ve seen motion faucets go off just from a shadow or someone walking by too fast. There’s also the issue of power - once the batteries die, you’re stuck until you swap them out. Not i...
RE: When your water heater goes rogue: quick fixes and hacks
Regular maintenance is worth doing on a serviceable heater, but it won't repair a tank that's leaking. Duct tape, frequent checks and a mop don't change that. I'd keep the unit out of use and get the leak assessed rather...