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Plumbing: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Signs Of A Sewer Drain Clog
A sewer drain clog is a plumbing emergency that involves all of the household plumbing and should be cleared right away. There are several signs that help to verify a sewer drain clog.
What To Do When The Washing Machine Wont Drain
If your washing machine won't drain the first thing to do is break down the problem and try to find the cause. When a washing machine won't drain there could be several different causes.
Irrigation Troubleshooting - Bad Valve Symptoms
When troubleshooting an irrigation system it is important to know the various bad valve symptoms that can cause sprinkler problems. Knowing bad valve symptoms can make troubleshooting your irrigation system problems much easier.
Dishwasher Not Draining?
Some simple plumbing fixes to try if you find your dishwasher not draining well or at all.
Don't put that in there
A short list of items that people put in a garbage disposal, that they shouldn't.
Start Sprinkler System After Winterizing
To start a sprinkler system after winterizing you must first know where the sprinkler system shut offs are.
Teflon Tape - How To Use Teflon Tape
Learn when to use Teflon tape as well as when you should use it and when you should not.
How To Fix A Slow Sink Drain
A slow sink drain is a very common plumbing problem. There are several things that can contribute to a slow sink drain. To clear and avoid a slow sink drain it is best to periodically clean the drain.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker Basics
A pressure vacuum breaker is an important component of irrigation systems. What a pressure vacuum breaker does is to provide protection against backflow or back siphoning of water.
Guide To Sprinkler Valve Repair
Taking care of a sprinkler valve repair at the first signs of trouble can minimize the damage to your landscaping. Narrowing down the problem will also help to determine what sprinkler valve repair is required.
Home Water Pressure Problems
Home water pressure problems may present themselves if different ways. If your home water pressure is low then the first thing to do is to narrow down the cause.
Leaking Freeze-Proof Faucet
A freeze-proof faucet is a great because it provides water outside the house even in the winter. The freeze-proof faucet can leak from several different areas and the source of the leak will determine the type of repair that is needed.
Water Pressure Regulator
A water pressure regulator is a plumbing valve that reduces the water pressure coming from the main water line into the house. Take a look at some frequently asked questions about water pressure regulator valves.
How To Snake A Drain
When faced with a difficult stoppage many do-it-yourselfers will wonder how to snake a drain. If you are looking up how to snake a drain then most likely plunging did not work.
How To Use A Sewer Drain Snake
A sewer drain snake is used to clear a main line stoppage. The following instructions will help you use a sewer drain snake to clear a sewer drain stoppage.
How To Find The Sewer Clean Out
Knowing where to find the sewer clean out is very important. These tips will help you find the sewer clean out at your house.
Unclog a Drain
Unclog a drain using a plunger with these step by step instructions.
Toilet Flange Extension
If your toilet flange is below floor level you will need to install a toilet flange extension before resetting the toilet. This guide will give you instructions for installing a toilet flange extension.
How To Find A Sprinkler Valve
How to find a sprinkler valve in a large yard is a question that comes up quite often. These tips for how to find a sprinkler valve can guide you through the process.
Toilet Flapper
How to replace a toilet flapper.
Toilet Fill Valve
How to replace a toilet fill valve.
Drain Snakes
Drain snakes are powerful tools to help clear clogged drains. Knowing what each of the various drain snakes are used for is an important first step when working on a clogged drain.
Replacing A Sprinkler Valve - Guide To Replacing A Sprinkler Valve
Replacing a sprinkler valve doesn’t have to be confusing or time consuming. This guide will lead you through this common irrigation repair.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be caused by a number of issues in the home’s plumbing. These issues can sometimes be resolved fairly easily, but first you will have to find the cause of the low water pressure.
How To Install A Sink Drain
Here is how to install a sink drain from start to finish. The steps for how to install a sink drain will depend on how different the new sink is from the old one.
How To Unclog A Kitchen Sink
Steps that show how to unclog a kitchen sink by starting with the easiest method and progressing to a more involved process for difficult stoppages.
Delta Faucet Repair
A common cause for a leaky faucet are the rubber seat and spring. This Delta faucet repair guide shows you how to repair the leak in a few easy steps.
Mobile Home Plumbing
There are some significant differences in mobile home plumbing system when compare to plumbing in a site built home. Knowing the differences in mobile home plumbing is important when dealing with plumbing problems and when considering renovations or upgrades.
Sewer Main FAQ
The sewer main is a crucial part of a home’s plumbing system. Many questions usually come up when problems with the sewer main occur. The following are some commonly asked questions regarding a home’s sewer main.
Guide To Buying A Toilet
There are a few important things to consider before buying a toilet. Find the right toilet for your bathroom with this guide to buying a toilet.
How To Drain A Toilet
How to drain a toilet seems to be a simple question, but the answer is actually somewhat tricky. The method for how to drain a toilet is slightly different if the toilet is stopped up or not.
Drain Trap – What Is The Purpose Of A Drain Trap
The purpose of a drain trap is in the name. What a drain trap is for and how to ensure yours are doing their job.
Using a Snake
Unblocking a sink drain is one of the most common service calls plumbers make. With this how-to you will never need to call Mr.Rooter again The method described within works on both kitchen and bathroom sinks.
Replacing A Sink P-Trap
A sink P-trap is the most common type of trap and it is also the easiest to install or replace. This trap is installed under your kitchen and lavatory sinks of your home.
Homemade Drain Cleaner
Make your own homemade drain cleaner from two common household items.
Sink Vent - Installing An Auto Vent
A sink vent is a necessary part of the drain for any sink. Installing an auto vent when a sink vent is not in place can help improve sink drainage.
Diagnose a Running Toilet
Check the toilet overflow tube for running water.
Where To Shut Off The Water
Where to turn off the water at the water heater.
Replace A Mixet Shower Cartridge
Mixet shower valves are a very common and easy to repair type of shower valve. By replacing the mixet shower cartridge you can get more years of service from your shower valve.
Fix A Leaking Water Heater
Fixing a leaking water heater can range from easy to impossible. Most people think the only solution for a leaking water heater is to replace it the entire unit but some repairs can extend the life of the water heater..
5 Basic Plumbing Tools
Having the right plumbing tools can make plumbing repairs much easier. These 5 basic plumbing tools will get you started on the right track for DIY plumbing.
Moen Cartridge Puller
Learn how to remove a Moen cartridge using a Moen cartridge puller with this step by step guide.
Sewer Snake Rental Tips
Tips for how to get a sewer snake rental machine. What you should know before getting a sewer snake rental.
Replace Frost Free Faucet
A frost free faucet is designed to prevent water from freezing inside the valve. Wear and frost damage are reasons to replace a frost free faucet.
Refrigerator Water Line
A dedicated refrigerator water line can be a convenient way to have filtered water and an automatic ice maker. Take a look at various options for connecting a refrigerator water line.
Pressure Booster Pump
A pressure booster pump can be used to increase the pressure of the water coming into the house. If you have really low water pressure installing a pressure booster pump could be the solution you have been looking for.
Garbage Disposal Buying Guide
There are several important elements to consider when selecting a garbage disposal. Not all garbage disposals work the same so it is a good idea to consider all the options.
Septic Tank Pumping
Various conditions affect the frequency of septic tank pumping required for a home. Managed properly septic tanks can give you many years of trouble free drainage of waste water. Maintain your system through regular septic tank pumping and inspection.
Moen Shower Pressure Balanced Valve Repair
Remove the cartridge of a Moen shower valve with a cartridge puller or with an adapter. A cartridge puller or a plastic adapter can be used to get leverage and remove the cartridge of a Moen shower valve.
Setting A Toilet
There are a few key factors to properly setting a toilet that everyone should be aware of. Following these guidelines when setting a toilet will help make sure you get a good seal and do not have to worry about the toilet leaking.
Common Plumbing Problems
Some of the most common plumbing problems are also quite easy to fix. Doing the repairs for these common plumbing problems yourself can save you hundreds of dollars.
Ice Maker Water Line
Connect the flex line to the ice maker water line behind the refrigerator. When the water is turned of the ice maker water line should be flushed before use.
When To Replace A Toilet
Do you know when to replace a toilet if it is giving you trouble? To help you determine when to replace a toilet take a look at some common problems.
Bathroom Pop-Up Drain Installation
A bathroom pop-up drain is a convenient feature that is often tricky to install. These step by step instructions for installing a new bathroom pop-up drain can simplify this project.
Sink Overflow - The Purpose Of A Sink Overflow
The main purpose of a sink overflow is to allow air into the drain when the sink is filled with water. To ensure that the sink overflow can serve its purpose it needs to stay clean and clear.
Mobile Home Water Heaters
Mobile home water heaters can be quite complicated to replace. It is important to know the facts about mobile home water heaters before you begin.
How To Shut Off Gas To The Stove
Knowing where the gas stove shut off valve is and how to turn it off is an important safety measure. Learn how to quickly shut off the gas to the stove if you suspect a gas leak.
Venting A Water Heater
Venting a water heater properly requires a thorough understanding of the different types of venting that are available. The following is a list standard gas water heaters and the venting they use.
Plumber's Putty
Plumber’s putty is a soft pliable caulking and sealing compound that is used to make watertight seals around faucets and drains. Knowing why, where, and how to use plumber’s putty can make many plumbing installations much easier.
Clearing Clogged Tub
The following is a step-by-step guide to snaking a tub drain. The process is similar to snaking a sink, with slight variations.
Water Shut Off Valve Types
Locating and turning off the appropriate water shut off valve is very important. Knowing a little about each time of water shut off valve is also a good idea.
How To Install A Moen Kitchen Faucet
Installing a Moen kitchen faucet. This example demonstrates how to install a Moen Harlon faucet, but the steps are very similar to other Moen kitchen faucet models with a single handle.
Snake A Clogged Shower Drain
A clogged shower drain is often very easy to clear with a drain snake. With the right tool and instructions a clogged shower drain can be cleared in no time.
How To Use A Basin Wrench
How to use a basin wrench is a common question asked by do it yourselfers. When you learn how to use a basin wrench this handy plumbing tool is sure to find a place in your toolbox.
Frost Free Yard Hydrant Repair
A frost free yard hydrant that is dripping calls for a quick hydrant repaired quickly before it freezes. Often a yard hydrant repair involves replacing the broken seal that is causing the leak.
Clogged Jets
This article looks at the two main elements that clog toilets, bacteria and mineral deposits, and how to clean them.
How To Replace A Swamp Cooler Float Valve
When the float valve is not working properly the swamp cooler will overfill and leak. Replacing a swamp cooler float valve is a really easy and inexpensive project.
Tub Overflow Drain Leak
A tub overflow drain can be the cause of a leak even though it is a place not usually suspected. The following steps can help confirm that the tub overflow drain is the source of a leak and show you how to repair the problem.
How To Use A Toilet Auger
A toilet auger can be used to clear a stubborn toilet clog when a plunger does not work.
Installing A New Kitchen Sink
Installing a new kitchen sink is both a cosmetic and functional improvement you can make to your kitchen. A few guidelines can make the installation of a kitchen sink an easy project.
How To Caulk a Shower Stall
This is an illustrated step-by-step tutorial on how to caulk a shower stall. The same technique can be used to talk around a tub surround or sink basin.
Clogged Toilet Trap
This article explains how to unclog a toilet trap. There are two methods used to do this. Using a plunger or if the blockage is more sever using a toilet auger.
Snake A Bathroom Sink Drain
Snaking a bathroom sink drain can be easy with the right tools and know how. The first step to clearing a bathroom sink drain is to find out where the clog is.
Install A Dishwasher
Collect all of the necessary tools to install a dishwasher.
Dishwasher Drain Connections
Hooking up a dishwasher drain is easy but there are a few things to consider. Take a look at the different methods of connecting a dishwasher drain so you will know your options.
Replace A Shower Valve
Good soldering skills are necessary to replace a shower valve yourself. One reason to replace a shower valve is if you have a valve that is not pressure balanced.
Moen Faucet Cartridge Replacement
Learn to use the T-Handle Moen cartridge puller for a Moen faucet cartridge replacement.
Blocked Sink Drain
There are a number of things that can block a sink drain; food, hair or grease are all common. Luckily, they can all be cleared using the same methods. Learn more about unclogging a kitchen or bathroom sink using a plunger.
Checking For Faucet Leaks
Faucet leaks under the sink are the most difficult to notice. If you suspect a leak under the sink it is a good idea to locate it and repair it right away before the water damages the vanity, wall, or even the bathroom floor.
A Cracked Toilet
A cracked toilet is often a confusing plumbing problem because the cracks are not always easy to spot. Leaks from a cracked toilet can come in many shapes and sizes and where the toilet crack is located will determine what action is needed.
When to Call a Professional
Not all plumbing projects are ideal for the do it yourselfer. Do you know when calling a professional is the best option? The following guidelines will help you determine when to call a professional plumber.
Dewinterize A Swamp Cooler
When you dewinterize a swamp cooler reconnect the water supply line and plug the pan drain.
Inside a Pressure-Assisted Toi
Pressure-assisted toilets are not common in many house holds. This article examines how they work and some of the pros and cons of a pressure-assisted toilet.
Dishwasher Venting
Dishwasher venting can be somewhat confusing for the do-it-yourselfer. Local building codes should be consider when planning your dishwasher venting installation.
Stop And Waste Valve
A stop and waste valve is a key irrigation fitting to help keep sprinkler lines free from freezing in the winter. The stop and waste valve will automatically drain any water in the line when turned off.
Types Of Plungers
Plungers are perhaps the handiest of basic household tools when dealing with drain clogs of all sorts. There are various types of plungers; each designed to be used on different types of drains. Selecting the right plunger can make using it correctly that much easier.
Tub Stopper - Quick Tip
A slow tub drain can be easily cleaned out once your remove a tub stopper. Some stoppers, however, are not easily removed. Learn how to remove a stubborn tub stopper and clear that slow tub drain.
Replace A Leaking Water Heater Drain Valve
A leaking water heater drain valve is a common plumbing problem. The best way to fix a leaking water heater drain valve is to replace the valve completely.
Signs Of A Gas Leak
Knowing the signs of a gas leak is an important safety precaution everyone should take. Learn what a gas leak in or around the home might look like.
How To Remove A Toilet
How to remove a toilet for a toilet repair or replacement. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of removing a toilet.
Remove A Dishwasher
Disconnect the water supply line to remove a dishwasher.
Kitchen trap
Clearing a clogged kitchen sink through the trap step 1 - place container under the trap.
How To Install A Toilet
Install the toilet tank onto the toilet bowl after attaching the tank to bowl kit. Fasten the toilet tank to the toilet bow.
Faucet Aerator - Removing A Faucet Aerator
Faucet aerators often get clogged with build up and need to be cleaned to allow proper water flow. This tips will help you to avoid damaging the aerator when you remov it.
Installing An Over The Range Microwave
The first step to installing an over the range microwave is to decide on the venting option. If there is no existing venting route this could be the most difficult part on installing an over the range microwave.
Push Fit Fittings
The popularity of push fit fittings has a lot to do with their ease of use and versatility. The speed of making a connection with push fit fittings is perhaps the biggest advantage to this type of fitting.
Setting or Resetting a Toilet
Don't call a plumber to reset a leaking toilet. Do it yourself and save some money. The same technique can be used to set a new toilet as well.
Install A Yard Water Hydrant
Yard water hydrants are a great way to beat the freeze and still have water in the yard where you need it. Eliminate the 200 feet of hose and install a yard water hydrant where you need the water most.
Tighten A Loose Toilet Seat
Constant lifting, closing, and sitting will eventually result in a loose toilet seat. It is very easy to tighten a loose toilet seat.
How To Install A PVC Saddle Tee
A PVC saddle tee can be used to quickly add a tee in an existing PVC pipe such as those used in irrigation systems. Using a PVC saddle tee can save you a lot of digging and it goes together quickly and easily.
Kitchen Aid Dishwasher Troubleshooting
If your Kitchen Aid Dishwasher has been acting up you may be worried about having to pay for a repair or replacement. Before you spend the money take a look at the following Kitchen Aid Dishwasher Troubleshooting guide.
Replacing a Bathtub/Shower Spo
You may need to replace a tub spout for a few reasons. Maybe your current one is in shabby shape or has been damaged. Most commonly tub spouts are replaced because the divert for the shower has stopped working properly.
Test Water Pressure
It’s a good idea to test water pressure in the home a couple of times a year. It is easy and quick to test water pressure with an inexpensive pressure gauge.
Removing A Faucet
Removing a faucet is the most difficult step when replacing an old faucet. The following are instructions for removing a faucet and tips for dealing with unexpected problems.
Remove A Garbage Disposal
Step by step instructions for how to remove a garbage disposal and replace it with a basket strainer.
Rocking Toilet
How to fix a rocking toilet with shims and caulking.
Price Pfister Shower Repair
There are various signs that a Price Pfister shower could use a cartridge repair or replacement. A Price Pfister shower repair may be needed if the handle is hard to pull out or if the shower drips when turned off.
Unclog A Toilet With A Plunger
A clogged toilet is a very common plumbing problem. Follow these steps to learn how to unclog a toilet with a plunger.
Replacing A Toilet
A list to help you determine whether you need to replace your toilet, how to buy a new toilet to fit your needs, and then how to remove the old and install the new toilet.
Sink Strainer
Step by step guide to replacing a kitchen sink strainer.
Toilet Flush Valve Replacement
A toilet flush valve replacement may be necessary when replacing the flapper and other attempts to repair a running toilet don’t work. With a little care the average handy homeowner can manage a toilet flush valve replacement and save having to buy a whole new toilet.
How To Replace A Tub Overflow Gasket
How to replace an old tub overflow gasket.
Unjamming a Garbage Disposal
Unjamming a garbage disposal is a relatively simple process. This step-by-step will guide you through the process of how to unjam a garbage disposal unit. All the tools required come with the Disposal unit.
Tub Shoe - Replacing A Tub Shoe For One With A Stopper
What you will need to replace a tub shoe.
Replace A Frost Proof Yard Hydrant
Replace a leaky frost proof yard hydrant. It is easy to replace a yard hydrant with a little preparation and a bit of digging.
Remove A Kitchen Faucet
Being prepared can make it easier and a lot less frustrating to remove a kitchen faucet. The following steps show how to remove a kitchen faucet and prepare to install a new faucet.
Roots In Drain Lines Can Cause Stoppages
Frequent toilet stoppages can be caused by roots in drain lines growing in from under the concrete slab. If you have a toilet that is frequently blocked, look for the common signs of roots in the drain and learn how to solve this problem.
PVC Joint Repair
There are time when an emergency PVC joint repair is necessary even as a temporary measure. Here are some PVC joint repairs that I have seen work in a pinch.
Flexible Drain Parts
Flexible drain parts can be used to quickly connect offset sink drains. Installing flexible drain fittings is as easy as it is to install any other under sink fitting.
When Is A Plumbing Permit Required?
Do you know when a plumbing permit is required? Many seemingly small plumbing projects need to be permitted by the county, so it is important to verify the local plumbing permit requirements before any work is done.
Compression Repair Coupling
Learn how to repair a broken sprinkler line with a compression repair coupling by following this step by step guide.
Pipe Routes
Planning plumbing routes is the first step to any remodel projects. The most important thing to consider when planning your plumbing is to try and make it as easily as possible for making your connections. With a little creativity and this helpful advice your plumbing projects should go off as headache free as possible.
Water Heater Expansion Tank Information
A water heater expansion tank is designed to help prevent fluctuations in water pressure. The water heater expansion tank serves as an overflow receptacle by absorbing excess water volume that the water heater creates when heating water.
Bathtub Drain
There are several ways to clear a clogged bathtub drain. Learn to unclog a bathtub drain using a snake.
How To Turn Off Gas To The Water Heater
Learn how to quickly and safely turn off gas to the water heater if you suspect a gas leak.
PVC Pushfit Fittings
Consider using a PVC pushfit fitting for a quick repair. Pushfit fittings are an alternative to traditional fittings for irrigation repairs that are designed to be easy to use and quick to install.
How a Septic System Works
Do you have a septic system? Ever wonder what's in under your front yard? View a diagram of a simple septic system and find out more about how the process works.
Plumbing Safety Basics
Plumbing safety basics can help you to avoid injury and complete your projects successfully. These plumbing safety do’s and don’ts should be followed when doing any project whether big or small.
Installing A Compression Valve
A compression valve is one of the easiest and quickest shut off valves to install if you have copper piping in your house. Replacing a compression valve will help insure that it will work when you need it.

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