How Close Can AUTOCUT Cut Copper Pipe?

How Close Can AUTOCUT Cut Copper Pipe?

Cutting copper pipe under a bathroom vanity can be tight work. This is even harder when the fitting is soldered in place. A torch may not be safe in that small space. That is why many homeowners look at an AUTOCUT-style pipe cutter. Question I need to cut a 1/2-inch copper pipe for a bathroom… Continue reading How Close Can AUTOCUT Cut Copper Pipe?

No Threads? How to Test Faucet Water Pressure

No Threads? How to Test Faucet Water Pressure

You want to check the water pressure at a faucet. But the spout has no hose threads. A standard gauge will not screw on. Good news. You still have several easy options. Quick Q&A Q: How can I measure pressure without faucet threads? A: Use an aerator adapter, a clamp-on faucet gauge, or test pressure… Continue reading No Threads? How to Test Faucet Water Pressure

How to Fix a Creaking Bathroom Faucet Cartridge

Question:My bathroom faucet was installed six years ago. Recently, it became difficult to turn on and off, and now it makes a horrible creaking sound. I found some advice online about using silicone lubricant on the o-rings in the cartridge, but I couldn’t find anything for my exact model. I managed to remove the handle,… Continue reading How to Fix a Creaking Bathroom Faucet Cartridge

How to Fix a Leaking Reducing Valve with Hard Water Crust

Question:My reducing valve is leaking at the threaded connection, and there’s a lot of hard water crust. Can I just unthread it, apply new Teflon tape, and tighten it, or do I need to replace the fitting and the valve? Answer:You may be able to fix the leak with new Teflon tape, but there are… Continue reading How to Fix a Leaking Reducing Valve with Hard Water Crust

How to Move a 2″ Sink Drain 8.5″ During a Bathroom Remodel

How to Move a 2″ Sink Drain 8.5″ During a Bathroom Remodel When remodeling a bathroom, adjusting plumbing fixtures like a sink drain is often necessary. If you’re facing the challenge of moving a 2″ drain 8.5″, here’s how to tackle it efficiently. Q: How can I move a 2″ sink drain 8.5″ over in… Continue reading How to Move a 2″ Sink Drain 8.5″ During a Bathroom Remodel

How to Clean Stained Plumber’s Putty Without Damaging It

How to Clean Stained Plumber’s Putty Without Damaging It If you’ve noticed that your plumber’s putty has a stubborn black stain, you’re not alone. It’s common for putty to get dirty, but cleaning it can be tricky. Here’s a quick guide to help you remove the stain without damaging the putty or causing a leak.… Continue reading How to Clean Stained Plumber’s Putty Without Damaging It

How to Replace Toilet Flange & Shower Drain During Remodel

How to Replace Toilet Flange & Shower Drain During Remodel When remodeling a bathroom, it’s important to tackle plumbing updates while the space is accessible. Here’s how you can replace a toilet flange, adjust your rough-in, and handle a shower drain replacement. Q: How can I replace my old toilet flange while remodeling? A: Replacing… Continue reading How to Replace Toilet Flange & Shower Drain During Remodel

How to Fix a Broken Backflow Valve in Your Main Cleanout

How to Fix a Broken Backflow Valve in Your Main Cleanout If you have an older home, you might have experienced plumbing issues like a shower backup. In this case, the culprit might be a faulty backflow valve. Here’s how you can troubleshoot and solve the problem. Q: What is this inner pipe in my… Continue reading How to Fix a Broken Backflow Valve in Your Main Cleanout

3/4″ Poly Pipe Run: How Far Can You Go at 60 PSI?

3/4″ Poly Pipe Run: How Far Can You Go at 60 PSI? (plumbing101.i234.me) — Running long stretches of 3/4″ SIDR polyflex pipe for garden irrigation can work well — as long as you plan for pressure loss, elevation, and flow rate. Here’s how to estimate what “reasonable” pressure looks like at the end of your… Continue reading 3/4″ Poly Pipe Run: How Far Can You Go at 60 PSI?

Weak Water Heater Draft? Here’s How to Fix It

Weak Water Heater Draft? Here’s How to Fix It (plumbing101.i234.me) — If your propane water heater “puffs” occasionally and shows weak draft pull even after a flue extension, you’re not alone. Many homeowners run into similar venting issues, especially in attached garages with poor airflow. Question: “My propane water heater was replaced 4 years ago… Continue reading Weak Water Heater Draft? Here’s How to Fix It