Posts Tagged ‘plumbing’
The Bidet: Everything you ever wanted to know (and more!)
Common in much of Europe and Asia, bidets are toilet-like plumbing fixtures designed to promote posterior hygiene. Although bidet prevalence in certain regions represents a humorous cultural distinction from American-style paper wiping, bidets do sport considerable convenience and comfort advantages. Bidets are becoming increasingly common in North America and it is important that first-timers and…
Read MoreThe Most Explosive Device in Your Home? Hot Water Tank Checkup
Did you know that a hot water tank can explode? When you combine high water temperatures and neglected pressure relief valves, you could have yourself an explosive tank that can literally blow your home through your roof. An old Mythbusters video makes light of a hot water tank explosion, but shows how potentially dangerous this essential…
Read MoreMeet Richard (Not-a-Plumber) Paquette, a Drain Inspection Specialist
Can’t figure out why your drain is backing up? Is there a massive pool forming in the middle of your front yard, for no apparent reason? Are you buying or selling a new home, and want to be sure the drains and sewer pipes are in good condition? Meet Richard Paquette. He’s a drain and…
Read MoreThe Wobbly Porcelain Bowl: Fixing a Loose Toilet
Nope. We’re not talking about a rough night at the bar. It’s one of our favorite expressions here at the office to describe a loose toilet. “I checked the toilet on the main floor– it spun like a top!” A loose toilet is not just an inconvenience – it could be a sign of trouble.…
Read MoreSpring Brought you a Leak in the Basement?
Smell something mouldy, mildew-y or sour coming from your basement or crawl space? Make no mistake: you’ve likely sprung a leak in the basement. Spring is a likely time of year for moisture problems to arise, and a good time to pay attention to how your basement is weathering the thaw. As snow melts, air…
Read MoreWhy Water is your Home’s Biggest Enemy and Caulking is Your Best Friend
I went to visit my mother last week. We sipped tea and talked about the latest news and events. My mom likes to express her opinions by using proverbs. Her inventory is quite astounding. If people are not barking up the wrong tree or making mountains out of molehills, they are putting carts before horses…
Read MoreThe 5 Minute Sump Pump Test Every Homeowner Should Know
Tulips still underground? Can’t smell the crocuses yet? Good! Because you want to make sure your sump pump works before spring showers are in full flood! This is a good week to check your sump pump. It’ll only take 5 minutes, and if there’s any problem, you’ll prevent water damage or flooding during the rainy…
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