Showing posts with label plumbing fixtures. Show all posts
Showing posts with label plumbing fixtures. Show all posts
Monday, November 22, 2010
Tightening Plumbing Fittings Can Be Tricky
Plumbing DIYers...Take the Time To Do It Right!If you do any of your own simple plumbing repairs, you know that tightening plumbing fittings is not always the easiest task on your to-do list. Taking your time and following these basic tips will help you turn a wrench like a pro without damaging your plumbing fixtures.
- Hand Tight is Right. It seems to go against common sense, but plumbing fittings don’t have to be super tight in order to function properly. In fact, pipes should only be hand tight to help aid the flow of water throughout your home. The unique construction and configuration of pipes means they are made to be tightened just enough; making them super tight can actually prevent water from flowing properly. Over-tightening will also warp the rubber fittings inside the pipes over time, which can increase the risk of leaks. Turn a plumbing fitting only until you feel it tighten, then stop. Continuing to turn past that point can lead to trouble.
- No Stripping. Plumbing fittings look like extra large bolts. Inside each bolt are threads that allow the fitting to screw onto the pipes to create a tight seal. If you tighten the fittings too much, you may strip the threads inside the fitting or on the outside of the pipe. As with any household screw, once the threads are stripped it’s nearly impossible to get the fitting to tighten on the pipe. This makes it more likely that a leak will develop, and it also increases the chance of a cracked or burst pipe in extreme weather or high water pressure.
- Lefty Loosey, Righty Tighty. This isn’t just a playground rhyme; it really works. Turning a screw, opening a jar or bottle, operating a faucet, and adjusting a plumbing fitting all function on the same principle. Turning to the left loosens the plumbing fitting; turning to the right tightens it. Remembering this simple rhyme can prevent a bad seal and stripped fittings. It’s also handy in a pinch if you need to shut off the water supply quickly.
- Plumber’s Tape is Your Friend. One of a plumber’s most trusted secret weapons is common plumber’s tape. It is usually made from silicone and helps create a stronger, waterproof seal on pipes and fittings. Using plumber’s tape around fittings while you tighten them will prevent over-tightening, protect against leaks, and ensure a good seal. Plumber’s tape is available at most home improvement or hardware stores in the plumbing section.
- Keep Pipe Fittings Warm. If you’re working on exterior pipes located outside your home, it’s wise to keep plumbing fittings wrapped in magnetic insulation. Water that is allowed to leak or spray from loose fittings outside in cold weather increases the likelihood of freezing, cracking, and bursting—which means big trouble inside your home, too. Wrapping outdoor fittings to protect them from harsh weather will help maintain a constant temperature and ensure your pipes stay in good repair. You can also find pipe insulation at home improvement, hardware, or plumbing supply stores.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Simple Plumbing Repairs You Can Handle!
Do-it-yourself plumbing generally falls into three basic categories: drips, clogs and leaks. Even if the only tools you own are a flimsy plunger and a rusty wrench there are a few easy bathroom repairs you can handle on your own.A dripping faucet is one of the easiest plumbing problems to recognize because it can drive you crazy. The simplest fix for a drip is to first make sure the faucet has been turned off completely. It sounds obvious, but over time the washer that seals off the water that flows through the pipes and out of the faucet can wear and will become less effective. Start small by replacing the washer, a small, round piece of rubber located just inside the faucet. You can find replacement washers at any hardware or home improvement store in the plumbing section. If a new washer doesn’t stop the drip the problem may be a broken seat, the piece of brass that rests directly behind the washer. In this case, you’d be wise to have a professional plumber to take a look. The worst thing you can do for a dripping faucet is try to pull the fixture handle tighter. You could end up causing more damage or breaking the fixture itself.
Simple clogs make standing water in sinks, tubs or showers drain more slowly or prevent drainage altogether. First, try running hot water from the tap for five to ten minutes. This can clear small bits of debris that have collected in the pipes. If the drain is still clogged, fill the sink or tub with a couple inches of hot water and use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. Be sure the plunger is covering the drain completely and push straight down and pull straight up several times.
If a plunger doesn’t work, try a liquid or powder drain cleaner. You can purchase these at any supermarket, hardware, discount, or home improvement retailer; there are even “green” options that contain natural substances and fewer harsh chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and flush pipes with scalding water following treatment. For really stubborn clogs, you may need to take apart a section of the pipe assembly to get at the blockage. If you don’t have the right equipment to do this, if the problem area is not easily accessible, or if water is backing up or won’t drain at all, call a pro.
Leaks are the most potentially dangerous kind of plumbing problem because they can indicate much more serious trouble. Signs that you have a water leak include staining on walls or ceilings, pooling water under sinks or around fixtures, and suddenly poor water pressure. For visible leaks, try tightening plumbing fittings or replacing washers. If you notice water damage on your walls or ceilings, you should probably consult a plumber. Whatever you do, address leaks as soon as you notice them; leaving a leak too long can cause severe water damage, staining, mold and mildew build-up that may require extensive repairs or renovation.
Related Information...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Subscribe!
Posts
All Comments
My Blog List
AddThis
Keystone Partner
Horizon Services is a Keystone Partner of Philadelphia Union, Major League Soccer Team
