Replacing old shutoff valves is a smart plumbing update. Many older homes still have multi-turn stop valves. Those valves can get stiff, leak, or fail over time. A quarter-turn ball valve is usually the better choice. It opens and closes with one simple turn. That makes it faster during a leak or repair. For sinks… Continue reading Best Shutoff Valves for Sinks and Toilets
Tag: plumbing tips
Should You Caulk Your Toilet Base?
A new toilet should feel solid, clean, and safe. But many homeowners get stuck on one final step. Should the toilet base be caulked to the floor? This question comes up often after a toilet install. It is even more common on tile floors. Porcelain tile can make caulk lines stand out. A messy bead… Continue reading Should You Caulk Your Toilet Base?
Fix a Leaking Reducing Valve at the Threaded Connection
Question:I have a reducing valve that’s leaking at the threaded connection. Is it as simple as loosening the connection and rethreading with Teflon tape or dope, or should I replace the valve and male fitting? Answer:Fixing a leaking reducing valve can be straightforward, but it depends on the condition of the valve and fitting. Here’s… Continue reading Fix a Leaking Reducing Valve at the Threaded Connection
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
Best Plumbing Layout for Dishwasher, Disposal, and AAV?
Question:I’m setting up a 2″ drain in front of the dishwasher and disposal outlet. Due to other plumbing and HVAC obstructions, I can’t move either of these fixtures. I also need to install an air admittance valve (AAV) and a garbage disposal. I’m unsure which layout is best: the first setup with a bunch of… Continue reading Best Plumbing Layout for Dishwasher, Disposal, and AAV?
Why Is My Bathtub Overflow Not Sealing Properly?
Question: I recently installed a bathtub with an overflow to a santee, but the gasket isn’t sealing properly. I’ve installed this exact setup twice before without issues. I followed the instructions, placing the thick part of the gasket at the top. The pipe from the overflow to the santee is slightly off plumb, but it… Continue reading Why Is My Bathtub Overflow Not Sealing Properly?
Is My Copper Plumbing Installation Done Right?
Question: My plumber worked quickly but didn’t seem concerned about the copper pipes being straight or plumb. The copper is pushed in from the outgoing PVC pipe. He said it’s fine, but I’m not sure. Should I get this fixed? Answer: In plumbing, the precision of pipe installation is crucial to avoid problems down the… Continue reading Is My Copper Plumbing Installation Done Right?
Should I Use Brass Unions for My Water Heater Installation?
Question: I’m installing a new 50-gallon Bradford White gas water heater. The heater has typical dielectric steel nipples with heat savers. I’ve heard of issues with steel and brass dielectric unions. I was thinking about using solid brass non-dielectric pipe unions threaded onto the tank’s steel nipples, then adding a 6-inch brass nipple and stainless… Continue reading Should I Use Brass Unions for My Water Heater Installation?
Do I Need an AAV or Just a Sanitary Tee for Venting?
Do I Need an AAV or Just a Sanitary Tee for Venting? If you’re finishing your basement bathroom and considering venting options, you might be wondering whether to use an Air Admittance Valve (AAV) or if a simple sanitary tee will do. Let’s clear up the confusion and walk through the proper venting process. Q:… Continue reading Do I Need an AAV or Just a Sanitary Tee for Venting?