Plumbing discussions and local services.
tobybrown731
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Do radiant floors save much energy with an overnight setback?
I’d treat comfortable room temperatures by wake-up time as a pass/fail condition, then compare full-cycle fuel use only among schedules that meet it. That keeps a schedule from looking like the winner on energy while lea...
RE: When your bathroom helper needs a little TLC
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve had some of those ancient compression fittings outlast brand new ones by years. You open up a wall and find a valve that looks like it belongs in a museum, yet it’s bone dry. Mean...
RE: Rainwater toilets and greywater showers: City tries new water-saving tricks
I’ve seen this firsthand - was called out to a house with a fancy greywater setup, all digital controls. Looked great on paper, but a single stuck relay and suddenly the basement’s got an inch of water. Give me a float v...
RE: Why are so many people getting tripped up by bathroom sink installs lately?
That’s the thing - flex traps are marketed as a quick fix, but they’re just not built for the long haul. I get why folks use them, especially in older houses where nothing lines up, but honestly, I’ve seen more callbacks...
RE: Plumbing tips that change with the seasons
Expanding foam is a mixed bag in my experience. It’s fine for drafts, but mice will chew right through it if they’re determined enough. I’ve seen them tunnel through foam like it’s whipped cream. For real rodent proofing...
RE: Under sink vs. countertop filters: which is less hassle to install?
Honestly, I think countertop filters get a bit too much credit for being “hassle-free.” They might seem easier at first, but those adapters can be a pain on older faucets, and the hoses always seem to get in the way. Und...
RE: How much did you pay to fix your fridge's ice maker?
I hear you on that. Half the time, I think these smart sensors are just another thing to break or need batteries. But then again, I’ve seen what a tiny leak can do if it goes unnoticed for a weekend - warped subfloor, mo...
RE: LOW SHOWER PRESSURE: DOES THAT BOOSTER PUMP REALLY WORK?
That’s a classic one - people jump straight to gadgets and gizmos before looking at what’s actually going on inside the pipes. Good call catching the rusted section, because honestly, nine times out of ten it’s old build...
RE: Choosing between in-kitchen and underground grease traps - what would you do?
Yeah, I hear you on that. Enzyme stuff is more of a band-aid than a fix, in my experience. If you’re cooking heavy, nothing beats rolling up your sleeves and getting in there. Between in-kitchen and underground traps, I ...