Plumbing discussions and local services.
jameshiker
Discussion activity
Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Home Plumbing Checkup: DIY or Hire a Pro?
Flushing and testing a temperature-and-pressure relief valve aren’t quite the same kind of routine check. I wouldn’t operate that valve just because it seems due for a check: follow the specific water-heater manual, sinc...
RE: Getting water pressure back: my experience with a booster pump
I hear you on the yoga mat thing - - that’s exactly what happened with mine too. At first it felt like a genius move, but after a couple weeks it was like the pump was sitting right on the floor again. I ended up switch...
RE: How much did you pay to fix your fridge's ice maker?
That sounds like a nightmare. I keep hearing stories like this and it’s making me second-guess the plastic line that came with my fridge. I get the logic behind paying a bit more for the braided line, but I’ll admit, I’m...
RE: Drain upkeep tips after seeing that crazy news story
Yeah, I’m with you - baking soda and vinegar just seem to make the drain smell a bit better for a day or two, but they never actually fix any real problem. I tried an enzyme cleaner once when our bathroom sink started dr...
RE: Cracked Sink Dilemma: DIY Kit or Professional Fix?
Interesting take, I've been tempted by DIY kits myself but always worried about durability. Did your friend's sink get regular heavy use, or was it more of a guest bathroom situation? Curious if daily wear and tear makes...
RE: need some advice on plumbing stuff for DIY bathroom fix-up
Yeah, I get where you're coming from, but honestly, heat tape makes me a little nervous. I've read some sketchy stories about them overheating or malfunctioning if not installed perfectly. As someone who's still figuring...
RE: shower goes ice cold when someone flushes toilet
Yeah, learned this the hard way myself. Replaced the fill valve thinking it'd solve everything - nope. Still get that icy blast occasionally. Guess a pressure-balanced valve is next on my list...homeownership joys, right...
RE: my shower's gone rogue and sprays everywhere but down
Honestly, mine didn't look obviously messed up either. I was skeptical too, felt like I was just tossing cash at a guess... but it was cheap enough that curiosity won out. Took the old washer with me to the store - figur...
RE: Eco-friendly plumbing options: composting vs. low-flow toilets
Yeah, learned this the hard way when we swapped in a low-flow toilet last year. Thought we'd be saving water but ended up spending hours unclogging pipes. Older plumbing can be stubborn...definitely test before committin...