Have a Question for an Expert Plumber?
Welcome to ASK DAVE, our exciting new question-and-answer column.
Do you have plumbing questions? Do you need plumbing advice? This is the place to get answers to plumbing questions, big or small.
Just post your questions here below on our ASK DAVE column, and David Parker, master plumber and president of ER Services, will answer questions and give advice.
Dave will be covering questions about:
- Plumbing brands and products
- Plumbing services
- Plumbing maintenance issues
- Who to hire to perform specific services
- What kinds of plumbing jobs are safe to tackle on your own
- Plumbing How-To questions and DIY plumbing projects
Feel free to ask questions about:
- Hot water heaters
- Water filtration systems
- Garbage disposals
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Toilets, showers and bathtubs
- Leak detection and repair
- Drain clearing
- Pipe work
- Sewer and water line installation and repair
- Gas logs installation
We want to answer your questions so you can make educated decisions as you tackle your plumbing projects and concerns.
Need Charlotte Plumbing Services?
Are you interested in more information about Charlotte NC leak detection?
Looking to install a Charlotte NC Noritz tankless water heater?
Need assistance or advice regarding sewer drain cleaning?
E.R. Services is open 24/7, 365 days a year. You don’t need to take time off work or wait until the morning because we never charge extra for nights or weekends. Just give us a call at 704-269-1066 or use our online contact form.
Learn more about Charlotte drain cleaning here.
Charlotte Plumbing Services
Serving the Charlotte metro area, including Charlotte suburbs. Looking for Charlotte plumbing services? Matthews plumbing services? We’ll get the job done now and the job done right. 30+ years experience, fully staffed and committed to customer satisfaction.
Hello,
Does ER replace kitchen sinks?
Thanks,
Thea
Hey Thea,
We replace kitchen sinks and would be glad to help you. I have the office number attached if you want to give us a call when you're ready.
704-846-5371
I have Generac generator liquid-cooled 25 Kw model number 4746-0. I am having problems with the unit. Can your company repair the commercial unit?
Hey Alan,
We just started installation and service of the Generac generators so pretty new to us, but we did go through all the training to rep the brand. We could offer a free assessment if you would like and in our local area. I would just make sure to tell the customer service reps if you call in that Dave said we would offer the free assessment with no dispatch fees.
Office# 704-846-5371
HI There ,
Shane L, from William Douglas , told me to call you ( I left a massage last week).
If a university terrace unit, need for the building main shut off valve to be off for a unit water repair - how does it work ?
Please advise
thank you
rony lev
DF LLC
7044586644
DFUNCC@GMAIL.COM
Hey Rony, we usually have to notify the community with a date and time. We have occasions where homeowners hire their own plumbers, and we shut the main down for the home repairs being done on the water distribution system. We turn it back on after completion. We can provide the repairs as well which you would be responsible for paying if that's how your lease is structured.
In 2016 you installed two Toto Eco Drake toilets. Recently one toilet seems struggling to flush. Works fine if I hold the handle down for extra water but struggles if I just push the handle once like I always have. What cold be the problem?
1. Flapper Chain Too Slack or Too Tight: The flapper inside the tank might not be lifting high enough to let enough water through if the chain connecting the flapper to
the flush handle is too loose or too tight. Adjusting the length of the chain can ensure the flapper opens fully when the handle is pushed.
2. Flapper Not Sealing Properly: Over time, the flapper can wear out or become misaligned, preventing it from sealing properly. This can cause the toilet to require more
water to flush effectively. Inspect the flapper for wear and replace it if necessary.
3. Low Water Level in the Tank: If the water level in the tank is too low, there won't be enough water available to create a strong flush. Check the water level and
adjust the float to ensure the tank fills to the correct level.
4. Partially Clogged Toilet: There might be a partial blockage in the toilet trapway or the waste line. Even though the toilet still flushes, the reduced water flow can
make it less effective. Use a plunger or a toilet auger to clear any potential blockages.
5. Mineral Buildup: Mineral deposits can build up in the rim holes under the toilet bowl, reducing the flow of water during a flush. Cleaning these holes with a wire or
a specialized cleaner can improve the water flow.
6. Faulty Flush Handle: The handle itself might be loose or not moving freely. Tightening or replacing the handle might resolve the issue.
Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot and fix the problem:
1. Check and Adjust the Flapper Chain:
Lift the tank lid and inspect the chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper.
Ensure the chain has a slight slack but not too loose. Adjust the chain length as needed.
Inspect and Replace the Flapper:
Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank.
Inspect the flapper for signs of wear or misalignment.
Replace the flapper if it appears worn out or damaged.
Adjust the Water Level:
Look inside the tank for a fill line indicating the appropriate water level.
Adjust the float mechanism to raise or lower the water level to the fill line.
Clear Any Clogs:
Use a plunger to try and dislodge any partial clogs.
If plunging doesn't work, use a toilet auger to clear the trapway and waste line.
Clean Mineral Deposits:
Use a wire or a specialized cleaner to clear the rim holes under the toilet bowl.
Check the Flush Handle:
Ensure the handle is tight and moves freely.
Replace the handle if it seems to be malfunctioning.
By following these steps, you should be able to identify and fix the issue causing your toilet to struggle with flushing otherwise just give us a call and we will gladly help you.
Dave
Is it difficult to change a fill valve in a toilet tank? What is the cost to have a plumber do that?
Hey Tracy, it's really not a difficult task to change a fill valve and you can find some great You Tube videos if trying to tackle yourself. The cost to do it would be dependent on who you call, model, and age of toilet, but you could save a bunch doing it yourself if a standard toilet.
I am writing from Canada so I am quite sure you won't be coming out to work on my plumbing problems. I have a spring that feeds my house, it's a concrete tank and a considerable drop from the tank to the house. When I run the cold water kitchen only on the coldest days the faucet whistles, it did it yesterday but nothing today as it is a little warmer. Could you please tell me what causes this. It's an older house so all the piping is copper. It's been doing it for years, even after I replaced the cartridges. Thank you for any suggestion you can give me.
Hey Sherrie, If the whistling only happens in the colder weather, it may be partial freezing of the line if the sink backs up to an exterior wall. Often, the whistling occurs because water is not flowing freely through the aerator. This results in the whistling sound. To check the aerator, unscrew the piece from the spout. Look for any calcium or mineral build-up on the aerator. I would also make sure the washer in my angle stops which shut the water off and located under the cabinet are good working condition they tend to get brittle and can clog the water lines or travel into the cartridges causing obstructions or noises. I would think the noise would be present all the time so that why I'm wondering if something needs insulated better if only in cold weather. You can take the head off the faucet if single handle with spray and see if it makes noises just running water through the hose.
Thanks,
Dave
We would like to have you replace 2 of our toilets as we would like them to be higher. What brand/type do you recommend and is elongated/round just a personal preference? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!
Hey Kimberly, I'm sorry for the late reply my system hasn't been alerting me when someone has a question. We like the Kohler Cimarron or Gerber Avalanche, and both toilets come in comfort height hope that helps.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave -- have you used a Pipe Patch kit by Source One? If so, what are your thoughts? Thanks!
Hey Scott, I don't know anything about the Source One patch kit to offer any opinion sorry to say. We use the Perma Liner system for all our sewer line repairs/relining and very happy with the process.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a pool return line that has a leak 1 1/2 inch I think can this be re-lined?
Hey Steve,
The re-lining of a line that small is not possible sorry to say.
Hello. My wife and I just retired and downsized to a 1500 sq. ft. 2 person 2 bath house built in 2008. It's on well water with a ph of 6.3 and hardness of 3.0 gpg. The water tastes good but there was a blue stain on floor from dripping faucet on one of the bathroom showers when we moved in. We cleaned it up and the faucet itself and the staining seems to be gone or reduced a lot as we don't let it drip. There are no other blue stains at other faucet areas in house sinks or toilets. I was told I have PEX plumbing throughout house. We have a house sediment filter (Culligan HF-360A, 10 inch) that has never been very dirty when I change it. I'm trying to decide on whether to replace the sediment filter with a 10 in. calcite drop in filter (AMI H-F2510CALCITE) I found online to reduce the ph. A local plumber has told me that the once blue stain could have come from brass fittings, but he also wanted me to consider a 4 ft. calcite container at a total cost of $3800. Should I try the 10 in. drop in calcite filter, or not really worry about all this. I'm just trying to be proactive. I'm considering a status quo. Thanks
Hey Jud,
The plumber is right you could be having the stain from the possible brass fitting deterioration. The ph level is concerning and we would like to see a neutralizer on the house to get it back to a neutral reading to help prevent corrosion and the leaching of metals. The calcite would bring it up a point and help your fixtures and appliances from premature failures with your current acidic water. The neutralizer will probably raise the hardness, so we like to follow it up with a softener. I don't think the AMI H-F2510CALCITE filter is a long-term solution without buying multiple cartridges throughout the year. The average household usage for one person is 60-gallons a day so a family of three per year would put you at 65,700 and your capacity duration on the filter is 8,486 gallons.
Hope this helps!
Dave
This is Lee Gilman in Quail Hollow Estates. Steven Anderson and his assistant Sam visited 27 Apr 2023 to gather information for a quotation on replacing shut off valves. I paid the site visit fee of $95.45 using my personal credit card. I need a copy of the paid invoice for this to submit to our Homeowners Association to get reimbursed. Please email to lee.gilman@gmail.com. Thanks
Hey Lee, I will get your message to the office to see your taken care of.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello,
I have a Rinnai tankless water heating. I wanted to know if I could have a recirculating pump installed and how much it would cost.
Thanks,
Hey Gary, We can certainly help you, but would need some more information if you could give us a call. I have our number attached below.
Thanks,
Dave
I have low water pressure from my well system and i want to install booster pump. Do you handle this type of work? I was looking at a Grunfos EZ Boost system. Please call to discuss 704-572-3632. Thanks.
Hey Tommy, We can defiantly help you with the Grunfos Booster! I will have the office reach out to you.
Dave
Hello. I just bought and moved into a home built in 2008. It has a well water supply and there was a whole house filter being used to remove sediment (Culligan HF-360A). The house is only 1500 sq ft. I recently noticed there was blue stain below a shower faucet when dripping. This is the only faucet i see blue stain and I have run my bathroom faucets slowly for days during extreme cold and no blue stain. I did check my pH and it was around 6.5. I had thought copper pipes generally were replaced with some form of plastic years ago, but I want to be proactive and not end up with a pin hole leak in the future. I also don't like crawling under the house. I'm considering putting in a calcite filter cartridge in to replace the fine sediment one to increase the pH, which when last changed was not very dirty after 4 months. Do you recommend this and also I wonder why I get blue stain at only one faucet. Thanks, Jud
Hey Jud,
The water is slightly acidic at 6.5 with 7 being neutral. If you see green or blue stains in your fixtures, the culprit is probably corrosion of your plumbing, which is leaching copper into your water. Corroded copper turns blue/green. This problem is often caused by low pH water, which eats away at copper pipes and fittings. I would recommend a neutralizer like you said but may increase hardness so may want to follow that up with a water softener. I'm just guessing you are on a private well system.
Dave
I moved into a new home last August. I have discovered that the septic drain line was pitched in the wrong direction making one of the bathrooms unusable and the master bath toilet barely functional only when the septic drain line cap is removed. The house is on a concrete slab. Studer vents have been added to the sinks. Any suggestions other than tearing out the floor?
Hey Wade,
We would have to look at it to see if you have any other options and that would require running the camera. I don't know of anything you could do from your statement, but worth getting another opinion.
Thanks,
Dave
my house has cast iron pipe from 1964 , i had a clog in my sewer line had a company to come out and give me a quote. then it was 2 days before they got back to me . to do the job . they fixed the problem and the tells me that it needs to have more work done on it . they quoted me price that made me lay down $$$$. im looking for a quote for a reline and to fixes some other plumbing this for me . im not a plumber forsure. i live in lancaster sc and i hope to here for you soon
Thanks Bill
Hey Bill, We can certainly help you with that but would require us to camera the line. It would help to see what the other contractor is saying you need as well to see if we agree. I would call the office and ask to speak to Thomas who runs the pipe lining division. I have our number attached below for you.
Dave
704-846-5371
Hawick Commons in Harrisburg North Carolina- Do you all perform Hydro Jetting?
Hey Kaylea,
We do provide Hydro Jetting if we can ever be of assistance.
Hi,
Do you install corro protec powered anode rods in lowboy warmer heater? We had a water heater installed by you in march 2022 and are interested in installing a powered anode, is this a service your staff will perform for us? What is the cost for this installation of powered rod?
Hey Meghan,
We can defiantly install this for you just not something we have in stock, and you would need power near for a plug within 12ft.
Dave,
Thanks for the response. Your previous response was
We do offer Tankless Service which includes a deep cleaning of exchanger, cleaning blower, igniter, incoming filter. I would call the office and talk to the customer service reps to get a ballpark by letting them know where it is installed.
Unfortunately the person in the office would not provide any pricing. I understand the technician will provide a price before they do any work. However you must know the base price to do routine preventative maintenance as described above. Maybe once you are back in the office you will be able to advise. I'd rather not pay a trip charge and tie up a technician if the price is above what I am willing to pay.
Thanks.
Hey Timothy, I talked to my staff this morning. The average price is $335.00 for the Tankless Maintenance plus the $69.00 dispatch fee. The price is according to you having service valves on your unit already when the unit was installed and
inspected.
Thanks,
Dave
Dave,
I called the office but they were unable to provide a base price. The only price they would provide was the trip charge. They stated the price would only be provided by the technician once they were at the house. Would you be able to provide base price information? Thanks.
Hey Timothy, I hope you had a nice Thanksgiving! I'm out of town so don't have our pricing book, but its based on what's needed after the technician sees what he has to be performed. The tech will give the price upfront before doing anything and needs your approval before performing any task. I guess you could ask the customer service rep if you could talk to a tech or service manager just to see if that helps you with you issue before having us out?
Thanks,
Dave
Dear Dave,
I am with a condo association and we have very much appreciated your help on a number of ocassions. You are very efficient, knowledgeable, and professional in all aspects.
We have 13 units. We are on well water. When one unit needs to turn off the water in their unit, all water must be turned off. This is just background information for my real question.
When our electricity goes out, our septic system shuts down and the sewage begins to accumulate in the condo with the lowest elevation. It begins to fill the shower then toilet etc.
I recently heard there is such a thing as a "Back Flow Valve" that can prevent such occurences.
Is this true and can it work to stop this from happening? And would we need more than one Back Flow Valve or just for the unit at the lowest elevation?
Any advice would be greatly appreicated and would like to know if you install these valves?
Thank you.
Susan Tovar
Baraka Place Condominium Association
Hey Susan, The Backwater valve is something that is used to prevent the city backing up into the building if they had an issue in the street and you're at a lower level compared to the upstream manhole. I think what you have is a sewer lift station that when you lose power the pumps stop working which would overflow near the pit or get to a height that creates problems in the lower units. I would think a Building Generator would be a better long-term solution if on a lift station which would transfer in power outages but still work the station. The unit owners will probably still use water in case of an outage which still can cause backups when everything is tied in together on common lines or just seek another area to release the flow.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello, we have a lowboy 30 year old (or more) old water heater in our attic that somehow we would like to have removed as it is just sitting and taking up limited space. There is about 1/2 to an inch we are lacking in trying to get it through the attic ladder door.
Is there a way to get it out of there safely? Too scared to try and cut it up due to fire hazard...
Do you guys do anything like removing old ones like this? If so, how and approx cost?
Thank you!
Good morning,
We have had to get contractors to remove and replace attic pull down doors at times to accommodate replacing or just plain removing. I don't have a price for that it's done based on other contractors getting involved which we have them bill homeowner. I agree on being careful when cutting it the attic if you attempt to remove the jacket of the heater.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a Rinnai RL94i Tankless Water Heater that was put in service in January 2020. I am interested in a preventative maintenance service call. According to the Rinnai website you are a registered as a Ace Pro. Is this correct? Do you provide this service? Can you provide a list of what is included in preventative service for this unit. I am located in Indian Land. What would be the base charge to complete this work. Thanks.
Hey Timothy,
We do offer Tankless Service which includes a deep cleaning of exchanger, cleaning blower, igniter, incoming filter. I would call the office and talk to the customer service reps to get a ballpark by letting them know where it is installed.
Thanks,
Dave
If a transformers goes on a mulligan water system who is responsible for the repair?? Who should pay?? I was under the impression that since it's their equipment then they should take care of it and maintain it. Am I correct?
I'm an 80 year old woman who knows nothing about transformers but don't want to be taken by someone who knows I know nothing. Appreciate your help.
Hey Jacqueline,
I'm not sure I understand the issue, but any parts would be warrantied up to a year on most occasions and labor as well if the part failed in that year. I would think the company would have a warranty rep that takes care of any manufacture defects.
Dave
Looking to see if you all are able to repair a pipe that is 4' underground that has collapse. Looking to see if you are able to use CIPP technology and could i possibly obtain a quote for scheduling of work. This pipe is about 30' long and 4" diameter. If there is anyway you guys could have someone come take a look before actually scheduling the work that would be great.
Hey Cameron, I'm just seeing your question. We do offer CIPP repairs with our Perma Liner technology and would defiantly recommend a service call to see if you're a candidate if you haven't repaired already.
Dave
Can you estimate time frame and cost on water heater replacement? Leaking hot water tank. 50 gallon gas.
Hey Sara, I would call the office at the below number and give them your specifics to better help you. I have our number attached below if your in the Charlotte area.
Thanks,
Dave
I'm changing a 2.5" x 10" sediment water filter for a combi boiler system. Water entering the combi can be shut off just prior to the filter housing. After the filter housing there's a "T" with one water line going to the DHW and the other line for the baseboard heat. Both lines have a ball valve shut off. The housing "cap" does have an ON OFF and BYPASS setting. The filter housing does not have a pressure relief valve. What is the proper sequence of closing these valves and opening a water line (i.e. kitchen faucet) to remove pressure from the system?
I would hope you would have a hose bib on the system if no pressure relief is present but send a picture if you like for me to walk you through it.
Dave
The water doesn’t drain when filling up tub or sink only when draining
Hey Stephanie, I'm sorry for the late reply was having a hard time logging in from home. I would have the main sewer line looked at it may need to be snaked to clear the line and possibly have a camera ran to make sure the issue is resolved. The water you may be seeing in the backyard may be coming from a cleanout not sure if your on city or a septic system. If your on septic the tank may be full and overflowing?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, I want to have the fixtures and shower head replaced in my tub.The job may require removing and replacing tile around the spout and control handles. Do your folks do that kind of job? I could send you a picture if you like. Thank you.
Hey Jerry, We can replace the fixtures but don't replace tile or drywall. We just stick to the plumbing portion and would love to help if you need us and local to the area.
Thanks,
Dave
I replaced my hot water knob on my bathtub and now when I turn it on I get ok pressure in the middle but if I turn it all the way on It looses pressure.
Hey Alishia, It sounds like the cartridge is acting up if the handle is on correctly? If you take the handle off and turn the stem cartridge does it still loose pressure. You may have to try this with a pair of pliers being careful to not strip anything this will tell you if its a handle or cartridge issue.
Thanks,
Dave
Good morning.
You came out yesterday to look at providing a smoke test at Clean Juice, in our Quail Corners plaza, and we have confirmation from the business owner for a Thursday 7AM visit to complete this test. Are you able to accommodate this request?
Thank you
Scott Kerns
Hey Scott, I need you to call the office and talk to the call center to schedule the appointment if you could. I have our number below for you.
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
Hi Dave,
Thanks for answering my inquiry. It's usually when we turn it on... so its cold. I notice when I tape over the overflow drain, I don't smell it as strongly. We have city water and sewer--no well. The water heater is only a year old, but the water in Florida is just crap---excuse my French---so anything is possible. Even after our water is purified, there are more solids in it in Florida, than where we START in Rhode Island--- before we purify the water there...unbelievable. They said they can only take out so much---as it depends on what you are putting in. The irritating thing is it's just this sink--- out of the 7 sinks in the house. Go figure.
We've been complaining about sulfur smell in one of our 2 bathroom sinks since moving into our new home last winter. We've tried everything--filling the sink with hot water so the water flows into the the overflow--with and without bleach. Tried vinegar same thing. Poured bleach, vinegar and baking soda down the drain-not together! My husband took the entire drain assembly out and cleaned the inside of the p-trap, there wasn't anything there---still sulfur small in his sink and not mine. We have a whole house purification system, and this is the only sink with the problem.
Water tests fine. Any ideas?
Hey Lyn, I would want to know if the smell is more present in the hot or cold water line and only when your running the faucet or always? When you notice the smells only from the hot water faucets, it probably means the hot water tank is contaminated. You can flush and clean the tank yourself with hydrogen peroxide ; sometimes, the remedy involves replacing the anode rod. I am guessing you have a well water system and bacteria issue, but would think the smell would be from all fixtures and that doesn't appear to be the case.
Thanks,
Dave
Looking for a plumber to replace pipes inside and outside of home while removing us from the septic system and hook up to the city sewer. I am submitting payment to Charlotte Water for a Water Tap. We have city water, just not city sewer.
Costs?
Hey Richard, I just got back from Florida visiting family for Easter. We would want to provide a site visit to provide an estimate! I have our number below for you to call and set up a date and time to walk it out with you.
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
no hot water at kitchen sink i've changed both supply line valves, faucet cartridge the replaced kitchen faucet. hot water heater is at other end of house feeds first master bath then house bath then half bath then kitchen sink and dish washer , i let water run for 10 minutes or more then turned off cold water supply to faucet still had cold water i checked half bath very hot water when i did this i got luke warm water at kitchen faucet half bath is about 15' away. my wifes sister has lived here for about 18 months started having problems 6 months ago. renters in basement have no problem
Hey Bob, It sounds like something is crossed in the water distribution system. I would shut the hot water valve off and see if water stops coming out of the hot side of any faucet. The water should stop flowing on that side if you shut the valve off and if it is continuing to run you need to trace down where its crossed or improperly connected. The thing here is if she had hot water and all of a sudden it stops what has taken place during those months? Any renovations from the renters?
Thanks,
Dave
We have a 5 year old new home. Recently noticed significant scale buildup on the fittings of the hot water side of the Pex water manifold. Had the well water tested. PH is 7.1, calcium at 31 mg/l, hardness 109, things look as expected, not too hard. So what is the needed action? Install a water softener and replace the fittings?
Thanks for taking the question. Happy to share pics and the water test report if that helps.
Hey Walt, Can you send me your water report at dparker@erplumbing.com
Thanks
After a toilet clog or two and a slow draining shower, a plumber sent a camera through the sewer line to the street. He said the cast iron sewer piping has tree roots invading them plus the pipe has developed a "belly" under the slab of my home and there is standing water in it. I've been told the entire sewer line needs to be replaced from the street to inside my home and that the floors need to be jackhammered since I'm on a slab and some walls and ceilings need to be removed as well. Can't this be done with a trenchless system, and is that something you do? Thanks.
Good Morning, I would personaly start with the tree root issue before doing anything else under the structure of the house and see how that goes. We dont have enough information to tell you where the stoppage is located, but if outside before it clears deal with the roots. In regards to the belly under the structure lining is not meant to remove it, but will smooth the pipe if cast-iron and would flow better. We personaly do not perform trenchless technologies at this time.
Thanks
Do you due backflow for spring and winter irrigating?
Hey Elaine, We install and test backflows. We can aslo winterize if you like?
Thanks,
Dave
Dave, I've got a question about my gas fireplace logs in our condo. The condo was built in 2004 and we're the second owners.
The propane gas supply line to our unvented logs enters the firebox on the right hand side, and has the appropriate shut-off valve installed on the wall by the fireplace. The log set is designed so that the gas input is on the left side. When installed, they ran a flexible gas line around the back wall of the firebox and then made a 180 degree turn into the log set. The tubing seems to be intact and not damaged from the heat of frequent fires in the fireplace over the years, but I'm wondering if this type of installation would be against code? I've got the original installation instructions for both the log set and the firebox and nothing is mentioned about this... any thoughts appreciated.
Hey Kevin, You can run a copper gas line to the appliance and done frequently in are area and up to code. I will say a gas flex connector is another connection highly used so can't go wrong with either.
Hi Dave
In the article "Problems with PEX Pipes with Brass Fittings", related to "dezincification", the article says "the leaching of zinc causes a white residue to build up inside the pipes". I'm seeing white residue is my plumbing. My question is... If I test my white residue to determine it's chemical composition, and if the root cause is dezincification, what should the test results show?
Thanks
Hey Terry, I would say that is a Chemistry question and above my pay grade. Not sure if this article will help you
https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/conservation-preservation-publications/canadian-conservation-institute-notes/dezincification-brass.html
I have an Aqua comfort heat pump 11 years old. 30amps. Heats a 16x32 pool. It reads 95.5 but I know my water is around 85. It’s an electric pump. Any idea as to what it could be that is giving me a false reading. ?They are trying to sell me a new pump for around $3,200.
Hey Bob, We dont work on heat pumps sorry to say so cant help you with this question and hope you get your answer.
Dave
Good Morning!
I had just come across your company as we are looking to partner with a plumbing expert to take on new and existing plumbing work at commercial properties scattered throughout the Charlotte area.
We have over 100 customers ranging from small retailers, department stores, banks, large warehouses and more.
We are hopeful in finding a company who prides themselves in delivery efficient, quality service and who offers quick response time and strong communication.
If you have any interest at all, please send me more information on the background of your company, your capabilities and rates to:
eborden@broadwaynational.com
631-737-3140 x 476
Thank you,
Hey Eric, We perform quite a bit of facility maintenance so helping your organization would be what were accustomed to doing on a daily basis. I will send you an email
Thanks,
Dave
I have air in my water line and can't seem to get rid if it even though I have purged the system 2 times and replaced all of the fill valves on the toilets. I have city water and have never had this problem before the last couple of weeks. Defiantly on the cold side and maybe on the hot. I have a gas water heater. Any suggestions
Hey Howrd,
I would check and see if your municipality is working on your neighborhood’s water lines, it’s the same story. Air’s been introduced into the system. I would ask my neighbors if they are having the same issue to help pinpoint if this if your issue or city. If you have a well, a similar condition can occur, though wells introduce complexities that transcend the scope of this article, with issues ranging from pump interruptions to drought, and it’s best to consult a professional for instances like this.
Thanks,
Dave
I'm the store manager at Safenest storage in Stanfield NC. I'm in need of a quote for clearing a clogged storm water drain on the property if you service this area. I can send pictures if needed.
Hey Phyllis, We service the area if within 25-30 miles of our office which you should be we are right at 485 and Albamarle. We have pressure jet trucks that help clear storm drains and would definatly like a pictuire if you wanted to send with all your information to. service@erplumbing.com
Dave,
I'll be relocating down to Nc at the end of the month for family reasons. I do sales for a sewer line repair and replacement company in Pennsylvania. Sales exceeded $2M last year and most recently last month was $250K with over 40% close rate. Just in last 3 days I'm over $50K of new sales with an 83% close rate. Do you have any use for someone with my experience in sewer line repair/replacement within your company?
Hey Robert, Please email me and give me more information than the numbers if you can to better understand your background. We have an application online or just use my email to submit. We definatly replace sewer lines and provide full plumbing service to our clients.
dparker@erplumbing.com
Hi Dave,
We just moved into a rental home and noticed that when we run the washing machine, the toilets gurgle and the water levels drop to almost empty in the toilet. The toilet flushed normally last night and early this morning, but now it will not fully flush. It fills with water but cannot flush all the way. We never had any issues the first few days we had moved in, only once we ran the washing machine (yesterday). How costly is the repair and how quickly can it be diagnosed?
Hey Emily, It sounds like you have a main line stoppage and need a plumber to snake the line to clear an obstruction. The washer will usually make the issue more prominent because it is a pump discharge. The plumber may need to pull the toilet to clear the line unless you havea cleanout outside. I would look and see if you do and unscrew the plug to stop sewer from coming in the house if it backs up. I would also camera the line to make sure no roots or break are present so it does not happen again and can be quoted if a repair is needed.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello Mr. David, hope you are doing great! My question is regarding a well water with low pressure and bad filtration system. The current filtering system seems not to be working anymore. This was installed about 4-5 years ago, but they did a bad job and never received any further maintenance since then. This is at my dad house which there is city water already but would like to know our best option if he made the decision to fix the current water system or switch to city water about $3000.00 for installation + start paying a monthly bill. Any help you can provide it will be really appreciate. God Bless!
Hey Leonardo, The well water sounds as if its struggling with pressure and sediment. The thing with well water which i have as well is your responsable for your own system and should be tested every year. I would say well water can be more expensive in the long run if maintained properly. My water was at a 5.6 PH level which is very acidic and caused my system to deteriorate the previous homeowner never had a proper filtration installed for my paticular system. I have several things installed on mine which include neutralizers, carbon, softener, and uv bulb. I'm just stating you have to maintain all this and gets costly unless you have a perfect water and sediment is the only issue and the only way of knowing is a water quility test. I would probably steer you towards city water because you will would know what your getting especially if you have to pay a bunch to maintain or fix the well after testing should you decide..
Thanks,
Dave
Hello Dave,
I'm using Schluter Kerdi presloped shower pan n drain, over concreted floor. The 2" pipe is there already. I ripped out an acrylic surround. Can I put the pan to tile directly on the concrete floor?
Hey Karn, You sure can just morter it down like the vidoes they provide show.
I had a leak in a pipe along my sewage pump and the pit need a cover, The leak was stopped but the cover that was replaced did not fit and now I hear a loud knocking noise when the pump comes on, The pump is working ok. Do you think a new lid would stop the knocking or do I need to have the entire pit?
Hey Wilhelmina, The knocking sounds like the check valve on the discharge pipe. I do not feel the lid will stop the noise and would look more into the drain line leaving the pit with the check valve. I do however feel the pit cover should be replaced or the entire pit to be sealed properly.
Thanks,
Dave
this will probably be a first time question....I live in Easton, Pa. Our house heating system is hot water baseboard with an oil fired boiler.....our hw is fed from the boiler.....our hw starts really hot then goes to warm while we shower (you've probably seen that already)....I could replace the entire boiler and add a separate hw tank with a circulator....however what would the issue be to add another hw heater (electric or propane) being fed from the current hw coil from the boiler? I believe I'd need to install an expansion tank between the coil and the new hw? I'd also add a temperature mixing valve to the outlet of the hw heater.....this should allow for reducing the initial super hot water coming from the boiler coil, and the new heater shouldn't need to do much work.
any remarks? Thanks, Bob
Stay Safe!!
Hey Bob, Thanks for your question, but this application is not in our wheelhouse of work we perform and want to make sure your being informed properly. I would reach out to your local plumber or heating and air company.
Blessing,
Dave
We live in Stanfield, NC (about 15 miles east of Charlotte) off Albemarle Rd.in Stanly County.
We have a septic tank that is on it's last leg. The town of Stanfield put in a sewer line about 20 years ago that we will now need to tie in to. The previous homeowners had the opportunity to take advantage of that option when the line was first installed, but sadly they did not. They could have tied in for $350. Now we're looking at spending $6000 just to tie in (not including a plumber's fee).
We have been told that the pressure is to low for a gravity fed line. A grinder pump was installed when the sewer line was initially installed but was never used. We will have to have a plumber lay pipe from the existing pipe leading to the septic tank, to the grinder pump, and from there to the sewer line at the street. Is this something you can help us with, and if so, can we get someone to give us an estimate?
Hey Cheri, We would love to provide an estimate for your sewer line. We would definatly need an onsite visit and guessing your in our area of service. Please give us a call and tell the staff you talked to Dave and he said we would provide a free estimate for you.
Thanks,
Dave
Good evening,
We are looking into receiving a quote to have a gas line installed for a gas range.
We do not currently have gas at our residence.
Thanks!
Matthew Hestwood
Hey Matthew, I have no problem giving you a free estimate for that. We would definatly need an onsite visit and guessing your in our area of service. Please give us a call and tell the staff you talked to Dave and he said we would provide a free estimate for you.
Thanks,
Dave
Dave,
Do you give free estimates for replacement of an old electric water heater? Thanks!
Hey David, I have no problem giving you a free estimate for you water heater. We would definatly need an onsite visit and guessing your in our area of service. Please give us a call and tell the staff you talked to Dave and he said we would provide a free estimate for you.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave:
I have a house built in the fifties and have a hot and cold water line in the garage to the washing machine. There are two shutoff valves that have a very small pipe sticking out of the stem and was wondering what they are for. I replaced the lines today to the washer but when I cracked the line water started shooting out of the little pipe. I closed the line and the water seemed to drain out and then stop. Will the water stop if I open the valve all the way or is there something wrong that I should know about?
Hey Kenneth, It seems like it could be a drain down for freezing conditions if in a garage. I dont know for sure without seeing and don't know where you live, but if in a cold climate maybe set up to help from freezing in the winter time. I would have to see to totaly understand?
Thanks,
Dave
I have a copper plumbing tee in the basement of my 1974 built house. The 1/2" pipe is tight against the concrete wall, and the vertical tee is cut off and open, and sitting on the top of the concrete sill, but it hangs off about an about 1/8" and is dripping water down the wall. The pipe looks like it had a cut out where the vertical open piece was inserted and sweated into the horizontal pipe. It's not a pre-made joint.
I had to turn off the house water to address another issue earlier today, and I'm guessing the pressure from turning it back on blew out some makeshift plug inside. How do I fix such an issue? Is there some way to block that opening, which is only about the size and shape of a fingernail? Can it be soldered closed? I'm at a loss. Thanks, Dave.
Hey Eileen, This definatly sounds like a professionals job. It sounds as if a solder joint has broken on a cap if it wasn't serving anything. I don't honestly know what you personaly could do without the right tools. It sounds like a plumber would solder an outside or inside plug to remedy this situation. If your tackling you need map gas torch, solder, wire brush, and sandcloth. I would aslo want to drain the system as low as possable before trying and don't have any quick or easy remedies with it being copper and on a fitting. Good Luck!
Thanks,
Dave
Lost power here in North Texas for 10 hours at about -2. When power returned Rinnai code 65 which indicates we need to call a plumber but everyone seems to say nothing can be done until hot water returns which we don't think will happen until the system is restarted. Are we confused? We do have cold water.
It sounds like the unit is frozen at the unit possibly at the water flow control or inlet to the heater, We use heat guns in extreme temperatures when were trying to regain water flow through the unit. If you have no hot water flow its defiantly frozen somewhere at the unit.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, in a side room of the house with concrete slab walls, I have hot and cold copper water supply lines, I chipped away carefully all concrete in a 8 inch hole showing copper pipe with a elbow fitting with thread that is corroded. Well we have to keep water main off because water is gushing out of elbow fitting. How to cap it??? With corroded threads. There was a 1/2 pipe that was in there originally but busted off at threads. I want to tackle cutting copper pipe below fitting, soldering new fitting on and running a new supply line to washing machine. It's weird though, why is that plumbing pipe inside a solid concrete wall, where I had to chip away with a mini Jack hammer to expose pipe and elbow fitting.
Hey Richard, This sounds like a tough repair even for the professionals when anything is embedded in concrete. I'm hoping you got it repaired, but nothing short of chipping away at it and exposing enough to work with will accomplish the job unless you have a way to re-route.
Thanks, Dave
Dear Dave, We are in the DFW area and I know out of your range. I have an outside water turnoff in a small cistern out front. The cistern keeps filling with water from the valve. My grandson was told a pipe was bad. In the back of my mind I remember my husband telling me if you turned the handle one way, the water shut off. Turn it another and water would flow into the cistern but you would still have water in the house. Turn it a 3rd way and water is on but nothing flows in the cistern. I don't know why you would want the water to flow into the cistern, but I distinctly remember his telling me that. The house was built in 1964 and is slab. I hate to pay for new line if what I think I remember is accurate. Have you ever heard of such a thing? Thanks for the help.
Hey Adele, Its really hard for me to say without knowing how it was piped, but sounds like you have a three-way valve which can be for filling, using, or shutting off. The only reason you would want it to flow into the cistern is if thats how it was piped to fill from whatever the source. I would think if the cistern is full you would have the valve in the position to serve what it is being used for. I guess the three way valve could be bad as well versus the piping and you may possably have a check valve not working which is meant to allow water in, but not out to prevent cross contamanation. I would have a profesional have a look and give you a better understanding of your design.
A cistern is basically a water reservoir of any kind which is used to accumulate and store water for future use.
Cisterns are usually constructed close to the building which will use their water, sometimes even inside it
Water enters a cistern from an external source such as rainwater from a rooftop, pumped water from a spring or other supply, or even by delivery by water truck.
Water from a cistern is typically pumped out by hand, drained by gravity, or it may be pumped by an electric pump such as a one line jet pump.
Thanks,
Dave
I recently replaced my lead pipes with copper. Everything works fine, but now the water pressure to the upstairs bathroom has gone drastically down. Did I do something wrong and what can I do to fix this problem. The water pressure everywhere else is fine.
Hey Kirk, The lead pipe im assuming your referring to is probably galvenized piping and just guessing you did a partial re-pipe. If you could tell me what all you re-piped you may just have dibris that ran up into the faucets or angle stops. I would say if the entire pressure is low to that bathroom you have a blockage in the main feeder line serving that bathroom hot or cold side. I would narrow down if its both hot/cold so you know what your truly dealing with and make sure the aireators are clean at the faucets and shower heads. The may tub/shower cartridge may also need to be cleaned.
Thanks,
Dave
How often do tankless water heaters need to serviced (cleaned/descaled) here in the Charlotte area?
Hey Jeff, As a general rule, your tankless water heater should be flushed once per year to maintain efficiency. However, the hardness of your water plays a part in this, and you may find it better to flush two to three times per year if your home's water is especially poor quality
Thanks,
Dave
Good Evening,
Looking to get an estimate for an commercial job in Harrisburg. Trying to find out a cost estimate to tie the water and sewer line for a site. The distance away tie into the sewer is 449 Feet and will have to cross Hwy 49 in Harrisburg. Also, would need a lift station for the site since it sits down hill.
Hey Deonn, I was away for the New Year and had bad reception in the mountains so sorry for just seeing this. We would not be able to perform a bore across Hwy 49 not sure who would have the license to do so on such on a busy road. We could perform the work, but would need a sub for boring and sleeving. I think you may be a better off with a State utility contractor and have attached a link for you.
https://sucontractors.com/
Hi????Good Morning☀️How are you? Hope all is safe well and doing ok!! My name is Veunca Dupont and I’m writing you about my mom Diane DuPont and my father Franklyn Dupont! Yes we honestly do know 2020 has been has been a year of up’s and downs and also Blessings on top of Blessings! ????????.... I’m Reaching out and Writing You about my mom and dad... THEY HAVE BEEN THROUGH ALOT THIS YEAR AND LAST YEAR... my mom hasn’t been working for awhile before the pandemic, due to her cancer and been in the hospital and now with both of my parents been sick this year with the covid going on ... it has been kinda hard with been out of work to keep up with the bill payments , utilities etc... and to keep food and other needs and other essential Needs in the house !!! But God is continuing to Bless them with things that they need and want daily !!! They both are known very well throughout the community... and they both have & Always had Giving heart ❤️!!... if they have it , or don’t have it .. (they will try hard to get it)!... they don’t and never mind giving and helping others that might need their help !!... They will go above and beyond to help others !!! they have been doing this for years !!!.... and I have picked up their giving spirit as well !!! right now they have 10 children that they are raising and keeping !!! Some of the children parents of passed away or their parents just needed some help with them and trusted my parents to take them in to help raise them and take care of them... !! They know where their help and blessings come from!!! When you bless others, just know that your blessings is on they way!????????????
THEY ARE LOOKING FOR ANY THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS HELP THIS YEAR !! Even if it’s just a box of groceries and some household essential needs ( like towels blankets cleaning supplies food etc!) that’s all a blessing to them or just a gift card is a extra special blessing!!! They are not picky at all!!! ❤️ and Thank you in advance for helping them !!!
This is the children gender and ages ...
Jeremiah DuPont boy 17
De’Montray Weddington boy 17
Jmya Gause girl 15(twin)
Jnya Gause girl 15 (twin )
Alaiah dupont girl 10
Alijah DuPont boy 6
Nadia Robinson girl 6
Simone DuPont girl 1
Daniel DuPont baby boy 5 months old
Kristina Knox girl 8
And
Elson DuPont boy 4
ANYTHING WILL HELP!!! Even if it’s hand-me downs !!! Or gently used !! They are not picky at all!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!!! WE APPRECIATE IT ALOT !!! Have a safe and blessed day!!!!
7042872536 Veunca DuPont
+1 (980) 598-0196 Diane DuPont
Address
1703 East Crest Drive apartment k Charlotte NC 28205
Hey Veunca, We would love to help you and your family out and would consider it a blessing. My wife and I are going to call you this week whats a good day or time? Lets surprise your sibllings and parents. You are certainly special reaching out and love your heart..
Dave
I installed a Sharkbite frost free sillcock, and have used other Sharkbite fittings as well. After installation, I tested it, and had great water flow with no leaks. A week or two later, I was using the hose when the water suddenly stopped flowing completely. I turned off the valve under the sink, but found no evidence of water damage. When I turn the supply valve, I hear no water at all, nor is water flowing from the hose.
During original installation I put a shut off valve between the cold water supply valve (also Sharkbite) and the sillcock. I'd like to have some idea of what. Ould have gone wrong before I open the wall. I pushed all fittings fully in to the marked line, so I believe it is installed correctly. Any ideas?
Hey Eileen, it sounds like the plunger on the frost free hydrant is stuck at the end of the stem. I would turn the water off and remove the valve stem and see if the plunger is in tact or stuck in the frost free hydrant.
Thanks,
Dave
I have low water pressure and have had Charlotte Water to come out and tests, however not the meter because they said if they test it and pull it could lock up the Pressure Valve. They looked at my valve and said it was a screw on? But in order to really confirm that it is the valve they need to do the test at the meter. I would have to have the plumber ready to come by at the same time so we can get this done.
Can you advise approximate cost of replacing that valve as I need to get it done, but cost is always a factor.
Thank you
Hey Ken, The item your referancing sounds like the pressure reducing valve and sounds like it's near the water meter. I would figure just shy of $480 if excavation is required with a new brass pressure reducing valve and box. We have a $79 dispatch fee if you live in Charlotte and in need of service.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I am putting in a new electrical service for which I'm using 1 1/4" pipe for the weatherhead feed. I need to thread the 1 1/4" pipe manually where it meets the meter pan. What size die do I use.
The 1 1/4" measurement is the NPS (nominal pipe size). The outer diameter is 1.66". I'm not sure what size die I need to thread this pipe. Thanks for any help.
Fred
Hey Frederick, Sorry to say we only provide plumbing service..
The water going into the jet bathtub is brownish and the two sinks and shower in that bathroom only have slight cold water coming out of the faucets. The tub never has been used and only occasionally is the water turned on. The sink faucets have been showing a decrease in water for several days. Do you know what could be going on?
Hey Sandra, I would be asking if you had well city water to understand the system first. It the house has some age on it you may ave galvenized lines serving the fixtures which could cause discoloration, but so could a well system that has sediment and rust issues.
Thanks,
Dave
I like your idea of the Dawn Dishwashing soap and Hot Water. Would you recommend pouring some Dawn in your toilet sometimes as a preventive maintenance step? Thanks
Hey Steve, I don't think it would hurt for preventive maintenance, but most buildup would be kitchen related not sure the toilet would provide the same results.
Hello,
We have a thankless gas water heater. When we take a shower with hot water for several minutes, sometimes the hot water supply stops and only cold water comes. This happens also when nobody else uses any other bathrooms, and no dishwasher or washing machine is one. What could be done? Is this something one of your technician can fix?
Thank you, Rolf
Hey Rolf, We can help you if you live in the Charlotte area. It may just need to be cleaned if you haven't serviced the unit in a while by cleaning the heat exchanger or filter on the cold water inlet. Give us a call if we can be of any help to you,
Dave
I'm putting in shower base. Do I install before or after the thinset mortar dries? I see both ways.
Hey Dave, If your setting a prebricated fiberglass base we would set it in the morter mix we just made so it dries in place.
Thanks,
Dave
Can a slab leak repair be done without tearing up the concrete can it be rerouted or re-pipe I have a slab leak under one of my duplexes do you guys do work in Kings Mountain North Carolina I need some advice badly thanks
Hey Mel, We are able to re-route piping 80% of the time versus break up the concrete slab. The plumber would have to find the leaking line and trace it to locate what it serves than he would determine what it would require to accomplish the task. We dont actually serve your area, but hope you find the help you need.
Dave
Hi Dave, I have one simple question for you. Why would my toilet tank be filling back up when the water to it is securely turned off?
Hey James, The angle stop valves can fail sometimes and allow water to pass through especially with age or new construction home debris. It sounds like you need to replace the valve or washer in the valve to get positive shut off.
Thanks,
Dave
Dear Mr. Parker,
I’m writing today to thank you and one of your plumbers who found a leak on our water line. I’m the President of our Homeowner’s Association which has 82 townhomes that share water services. Over the last 5 years, our water expenses have doubled. I contacted Charlotte Water and a large water leak detection company, but no one was able to help. Then I called ER Plumbing and Brennan from your company came out and found a leak that has to be causing our problem. We weren’t even sure we had a leak. All we knew was that our water bills were increasing. Brennan did some investigative work and found the problem. I thanked Brennan personally, but wanted to let you know of his outstanding work. Yours Truly.
Hey Jim, We sure appreciate you reaching out and letting me know we were able to help your community. I will let Brennan know again just how happy you were. Let us know if we can do anything else for you or the community.
Dave
Thank you for your reply Dave! Our home is 8 years old and we are on city water. I can’t say for sure if the rust is happening in the warm or cold cycle. I never use the hot setting. I’m thinking I should stick with cold no matter what to help minimize this from happening. So annoying!
We are actually having you all install a tankless water heater and a whole house filtration system tomorrow so we are very excited about that.
Thanks again for responding!
Hey Kim, The new water heater you have installed will definatly elimanate the issue being water heater related if keeps happening. I see your in the Mayfair community which the water quality should be fine. I would have an appliance man have a look at it if an isolated issue. The water filtration system is a big plus with any water coming in from the community being served by the city so if the community has a break your protecting what comes into your residence. If you ever need me to stop over just let me know.
Thanks,
Dave
I was wondering if you could help me figure out why our clothes periodically come out of the washing machine with rust spots and what we can do to prevent that from happening. I do run the clean washer cycle once a month with bleach. Is this something to do with my machine or the pipes? Any information you could provide would be most appreciated. Thank you!
Hey Kim, The first thing I would want to ask is how old is the house and are you on city or well water? The older homes sometimes have galvenized piping which can contribute to rust spots. The other thing could be age of water heater and accumulation of sediment not sure if it discolers when on a hot or cold cycle but worth checking.
Thanks,
Dave
This is a follow up from my question yesterday concerning descaling a tankless hot water heater.
Actually the vinegar came out of the hot water line and back into the bucket the entire time. The level in the bucket stayed the same for the first 20 minutes and then it starting going down until I had to turn the pump off. That is why I am so confused. It worked just like the video for the first 20 minutes and then the pump was pumping out more than was being returned.
Hey Jim, The only thing that would make since is the hot valve did not shut off all the way for a good seal.
So after watching a few videos, I decided to descale my tankless hot water heater myself. I put 4 gallons of vinegar in the 5 gallon bucket with the pump and turned it on. After about 20 minutes there was only about an inch of vinegar in the bucket. I was expecting all 4 gallons of vinegar to continually circulate through the heater and back in the bucket like I saw in the videos.
Any idea where all the vinegar might have gone and why?
Thanks
Hey Jim, It sounds like you may not have closed the hot water line at the unit meaning when you had the pump running if it never returned to the bucket it went into the water supply system. The vinegar wont hurt you thats the good thing, but seems like it never returned which it should have.
Thanks,
Dave
i have a kohler shower faucet i removed the plastic hand knob but under it is another chrome piece with a flange that is preventing me from getting to the valve body/cartridge
Hey Vincent, I'm not sure what model you have but have a few videos attched that may help? Any pictures you can share we can help further.
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=kohler+shower+faucet+cartridge+replacement+video+
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=kohler+faucet+cartridge+replacement+video+
Thanks,
Dave
I am thinking about a under the sink hot water heater. I don't know enough about it to make a decision. Can someone give me a call so I can explain and maybe help me make a decision?
Phone number 704-222-1800. I have used you one time before. I'm not sure if it in my wifes name or mine. My name is Ken Sanders
Hey Ken, We will gove you a call today.
Hi Dave,
I have a Rinnai water heater that developed a leak on the copper tubing supplying water to the unit. The company sent me another combustion chamber to correct the leak. Now, 3 years later I found another leak which is keeping the unit from working. A sensor is getting wet. I get an error code of 49 but can't find what that code means. Can you help?
Steve
A 49 error code is caused by the pressure switch either not proving or a bad component. Check the hose attached from the plastic elbow located behind the heater going to a small square pressure switch found inside the heater. It may have come loose or a mouse may have taken a bite out of it. Also while you are behind the heater, pull off the hose that looks like a vacuum cleaner hose and run the heater with it unattached. If it runs, you have a blockage in the vent. If not, take a flashlight and go outside to the vent. Look down the center pipe for any obstructions. If it still does not work, you may need a new pressure switch.
While the front panel is off the heater, cycle the heater to attempt a start. You want to make sure the blower turns. If it does not, check the wire connections to it. You may be looking at a bad blower. If it is turning but still does not start, we are looking at a bad pressure switch.
Dave
Hi Dave,
I'm in Tampa, FL. I have a bronze waterfall faucet in a bathroom that hasn't been used in months. I tried to turn the water on tonight but the faucet won't budge. Is there something I can do to lubricate it or whatever is needed to get it working again?
Hey Liz, I would shut the water off to the house and remove the handels so you can pull the cartridges and grease. You may just need some new stems ordered if they have a considerable amount of age on them and you may want a professional for eithger one of these tasks. If you know the brand name you may be able to You Tube the issue and watch someone that has a similar problem. I would say an example would be my Moen tub valve handle wont turn,budge, or is stuck.
Blessings,
Dave
What is wrong when your hot water want cut off in ur tub and u changed the stem and itis still leaking
Hey Brad, The seat could be fouled or bad. I have a video below for you not the best in quality, but enpough to help guide you.
Dave
https://youtu.be/88B8bERD208
I would like to know which vendors you use and who I would speak to about being a vendor
Jason Grooms handels our purchasing Joseph
jgrooms@erplumbing.com
I want to unsolder something off a copper pipe. The 3/4 copper pipe sticks our from the wall and then has an old valve that was previously soldered onto the pipe. i want to put a new valve onto the same pipe. If i unsolder the old valve is there any special way i need to treat the pipr. it still has solder on it after removing the old valve.
Can i just clean it and treat it as if it were a new piece of pipe of is there something else i should do?
Hey John, I would heat the solder and have a rag close to wipe it off and remove. I would sand after removing and continue with the new installation of flux and solder.
Thanks,
Dave
This is a shout out for, plumbing, starting with Jason Hunter, Thank you for introducing me to ER. A very kind, conscientious service professional. His considerate concern for my well being on the receiving end of the upstairs water heater leak lead me to use ER Restoration Services and Greg Guffy and Brian Schmidts, an awesome duo, in expertise, execution, information, kindness, great senses of humor and willingness to answer all my questions. They did an incredible job swiftly, carefully, and went above and beyond.
When the insurance adjustor for the landlord upstairs came to survey the situation, he even was so impressed he asked for the ER info card...
My curious neighbor, upon seeing the ER Restoration trucks parked outside, said, ..."yeah, Dave and Laura are the best..." and it sure shows in their business...
Way to go, guys! You are the best. Stay safe, stay well and a thousand thanks...
Hey Cynthia, We are glad you called us and so appreciate your nice review. Let us know if you need anything else
Blessings,
Dave
Message for Joe Small: Hi, Joe. This is Scott Smith, you helped us replace a bathtub faucet at Baraka Place in Waxhaw March 4. If you left a small JBL speaker there, call me at 704-843-8062 or go by Baraka & ask for manager, Sue Tovar.
Thanks Scott, I did pass the message to Joe
Hi Dave, we have a Rinnai tankless water heater which seems to functioning normally. On occasion, and intermittently, my wife fills Jacuzzi tub and during fill the water runs cold. No faucet adjustments- just stops sending hot water. I was wondering if the tub had a "cartridge" as you mentioned in another post regarding a shower; or is that just with a single handle temperature control valve? The tub has separate hot/cold faucets but, when I try to duplicate, it works like a charm. The Rinnai is about 14 years old but was serviced recently...about 2 years ago.
Thanks, Scott
Hey Scott sorry for the late reply could not access my Ask Dave area. The tubs can have large spouts which put out more gallons per minute than the water heater can handle sometimes. I would say test it while a washer or something else is pulling hot water and see if it fails? I would think if you have two levers and just turned hot on only you would not lose temps. You may have to throttle down meaning don't open the spout all the way if it cant handle flow fully? If that doesnt seem to be working the cleaning was definatly something needed of the unit and gas flow may need to be checked?
Dave
Good morning Dave, my master bath is on the second floor and we're planning this year upgrade it. We don't like the layout of the toilet and shower. Are you able to change the lines out so the shower is where the toilet is and shower for a toilet, if so do you do a free estimate?
Thanks for your time.
John, We dont perform plumbing renavations just stick with plumbin service. You can usually alter the waste and water lines but would require some drilling through the floor joists. The tub is usually a two-inch pipe the toilet being 3" so having an open floor or ceiling would be required for any renavation company to see what they are up against on the relocation.
Thanks,
Dave
I am interested in finding the quickest way to interpret the label on a water heater. Trying to determine the age and life expectancy for a friend. I am looking at a Bradford White. Some info on the label :
Model number: MI5036FBN
S.N. HD 14797943 D/N
ANSIZ21.10lb-2006 * CSA4,lb - 2006
Bradford White's website did not have numbers to match model or serial number. Is there a book/manual or website I can go to interpret appliance labeling?
The heater wanmnufactured in 2018
https://www.bradfordwhite.com/serial-number-date-code-reference/#
Dave
My master toilet loses water when the guest bathroom toilet is flushed. I had a camera put down all vents no issues. Then the y put the camera down the sewer line no clogs , they did find a belly of water at the main tap and said this may be the problem. They want to tear up the whole sewer line in the front yard. Do you think this will fix the problem?
Hey Carol, I dont think the outside sewer would have anything to do with a toilet siphoning pull the cleanout cap plug if you have one outside and test by flushing. I would need more information like are the toilets back to back or in completly different rooms? I always ask history like how old is the house and have you been in it very long this helps with diagnosis. I do feel it could be vent related? The system having a belly can cause eventual buildup and backups, but again have you lived at the house a long time and ever had a backup issue or lost water in the bowl? If the house is new we would question how it was piped
Dave
We are replacing our counter tops and my husband has agreed to put in a farm house apron sink. Our current sink is you typical dual sided sink with a garbage disposal attached on one side. Would it be easier/ cheaper for a plumber to put in a dual sided farm house sink or put in a regular farm house sink and disconnect the garbage disposal? I can also supply photos of the pipes beneath the sink if needed. Thank you in advance.
Jamecia, I would say either way would cost about the same so get what you want cosmeticaly so your pleased. The biggist thing to be careful of is depth of bowl and waste arm height coming out of wall in order to make things work. If the arm is stubbed out of the wall to high it will complicate things and may not even work so verify before proceeding. I would say 18" from the floor to the center of the drain arm is the most common height and anything below that will be even better. I would say if above 18" to center you may have to lower the arm by re-piping either in wall or through crawlspace if you have one through bottom of cabinet versus wall. Hope this helps
Dave
I have a lower condo unit in Branson west. When the tenants above me flush there toilet, the toilet in my master bath loses all the water in the bowl. Sometimes when we flush the water pops or bubbles up. This has been an ongoing issue for at least 4 months. Prior to that everything worked fine. Also, my drains in my kitchen sink make loud gurgling sounds when not in use? What is going on?
Debbie, I would have the main sewer line checked the gurggling bothers me and dont want you to have a backup! The venting should be checked to make sure its not clogged as well it could cause this type of issue. I do think you need a professional on this one.
Thanks,
Dave
Please remove my previous post. I did not realize this would be published this way.
Thank-you
I would like to get a quote to replace a 75 gal gas power vent water heater. It is currently a Rheem power vent 2 model 22VRP75 installed in 2005.
We would like to either replace it with a comparable configuration or replace it with a tankless water heater.
Since we will be out of town from 12/22 thru 12/27 I want to see if we can get a quote from pictures I could send of the current installation. We would then want to schedule installation between 12/30 to 1/2.
If this is acceptable let me know where I can send the pictures.
Thanks
Address is Whiterock road, Mount Holly, NC
The plumber who installed my Rinnai tankless heaters is an Amish man who is accustomed to dealing with a different high quality brand.... he doesn’t know why the following is happening. Our water meter says we have a water leak, slow, slightly erratic, but constant since we moved into our new house. We have also been told by the propane company that we have used twice as much propane as they would have expected by this time. Granted, we have been enjoying not having to jump in and out, one after the other as we did in the trailer home; but it’s been a few months now, so we’re not in the “hotel shower” mode any longer. This has been very puzzling for the passed few months; then, we started working in the basement and noticed that the hot water heaters come on for a few seconds, then off, then on, then off, etc. when no one is using ANY waiter, cold or hot! Bingo! Could this be the constant propane and water trickle? But where is the water going? Or is this just the propane trickle? Or am I crazy and it just sounds like they’re firing up when they’re really not?
Hey Marquitta, The first thing we would do is shut the cold water feed off at the water heaters and walk back out to the meter and see if the meter stopped spinning. It sounds like you have a hot water leak somewhere not sure if your on a concrete slab but could be leaking under the structure. The only reason the units should kick on is if you have a recurculation system or leak if gas bill is higher and meter spins when not in use. If you shut the hot water off and the meter stopped spinning you need to call a leak detection company to try and find the hot water leak.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello Dave , My husband and I had brought a hot water heater thru, homedepot , it was be install but was too big for the space , So we had to order one taken two weeks , so it arrived heater and installers by a company they called ,the Rheem electric hot water heater has only been in the house for 7 days and the heater makes a terrible noise when using the hot water,Im scare in using the tub for shower cause of the sound , The Hot water heater sound likes it going to blow,it sound like a train.My understanding thru. my husband while watching the individual that worked on hot water heater he used a drill and sharkbites on the lines hot and cold to connect the lines on top.what they used did they damage the lines? what causing the noise? Thank you hope I could get some answers , We have put a lot of money into this water heater, Hope you can help.
Hey Evelyn, The problem you having would be hard to say without being onsite. I would say if it pertains to hot water only you start at the incoming valve making sure it is on all the way. The next thing is did the plumber use flexable connections to the heater maybe something is kinked. The last items would be something in the line or the heat traps that may have come with the heater manufacture are causing a noise. The bottom line is the plumber needs to come back and address the noise which was not present until the new heater was installed and take care of you.
Dave
What are your thoughts on the Aquor House Hydrant? I've seen them online but I don't personally know anyone who has one. It's a sillcock that my husband wants installed on our home.
Hey Mary, We have never been asked to install or service one. I did see the link you sent and love the concept its frost free and seems easy to install. I'm not a fan of plastic and would wonder if the connection would strip at some point but cant give any feedback not having seen or installed any. I would just read reviews and would also point out because the adapter is plastic when you pull on the hose thinking you have more will it shatter and break the plastic in the housing of the hydrant?
Dave
Our shower upstairs runs cold untill we flush the toilet, it seems to have started when we got a new water heater
Hey Rick, I would want to check the shower cartridge first if everything else is working in the house it sounds isolated. You may need a new cartride or yours may have dibris that needs to be clened out for the balancing spool to work properly.
Thanks,
Dave
On a general maintenance/inspection of a Rinnai Tankless WH, what exactly does that entail?
that is, what is actually done to the unit in this service request?
How long does this service usually take?
Is a written detailed, report provided?
In general, what are we looking at, as far as costs?
thank you
Hey Mark, I attached some helpful information for you. The Tankless maintenance can take an hour with flushing and filter screen cleaning and we use a solution but vinager is aslo used. The cleaning charge can very depending on location, condition, and were service valve kits originally installed. I would have to think under $400 in most occasions by a professional but easy to perform yourself and plenty of videos available to help you.
https://www.rinnai.us/faq/tankless-water-heater/what-type-of-regular-maintenance-does-a-rinnai-tankless-water-heater
https://www.powerequipmentdirect.com/manuals/hercules-243e6443fcad221da7ffc34c1f0fbe0b.pdf
https://www.waterheaterhub.com/do-tankless-water-heaters-need-maintenance/
Thanks,
Dave
Mixer taps.
Trying to replace mixer taps with hose, ones installed have 3 pipes coming from taps. New one has 2. How can I do this.
Hey Jacquie, I'm not sure I understand your question can you send a picture?
Dave
On Monday our water meter was replaced. We opened all faucets to let the air out and any dirt that could have gotten in flush out and our water pressure was normal. Tuesday night a load of laundry was done and still no problem. Tuesday night the temperature dropped to 17 degrees. Wednesday another load of laundry was started around noon and the hoses on the washer started jumping around and finally stopped but the water pressure in the washer and the whole house dropped to almost zero. The night it was so cold we left a small stream of water in the bathroom and kitchen sink and put a small heater blowing on the washer. Any suggestions of what needs to be checked would be greatly appreciated. I am 67 years old and have been disabled for the last 9 years. We can get our son to repair but just need to know what to look for and where to start. Thank you so much and God bless you and your family.
Hey Wayne, It sounds like whereever your water main is located froze so if you have an uninsulated area like garage, storage romm, or well system those are areas to have protected. The washer would be a concern if it was the only fixture that you lost pressure at but from your notes pressure dropped everywhere. I would be paying attention to the area where my house valve is located that shuts everything off as my starting point and make sure the piping is protected from freezing. The meter being replaced could have had air enter which would subside. The other thing could have been if dibris during the meter swapout ran up the line and clogged somethiing. The system would stay the same meaning clogged even when temps rose above freezing meaning nothing froze and the line is clogged which would require a professional.
Blessings,
Dave
I was wanting to contact you about Melissa Berry I no she had told me she had talked to you sum. I am one of her friends. I was wanting to see if you could help her with her trailer. She is living in her mom's trailer. I've tried to help her make it atleast live able. But it's not. It is in bad shape. She has three places where the rain comes thru the sides and ceiling. One if her bathrooms the leak has made the ceiling have black mold and come down sum . She tries to live there the best she can. I've tried to help her and put what I can into fixing it up. But we have done as much as we can. She has a lot of health problems also. She can't work at all. She stays in alot of pain all day and night. She is having a lot of problems with her back recently the doctor's say her spine is like a 80 year old woman's. She is going for a cat scan soon. She doesn't have insurance. All she has is charity care and what help her doctors can give. She doesn't get up or out of her bed most days. Like I said it was her mom's trailer. One thing tat bothers her and even gives her stress is her mom died in tat trailer. That would mess with anyone. Plus another woman that stayed with her mom died there as well. So it gives her stress and depression. But it's all she's got to live at. She has two sons they are grown and starting there own life's and her dad doesn't help her any. She has had a really rough life. More than she ever admits or tells anyone. That's why I've tried helping her with the trailer and make it. Do you know any programs or people that could help her with her trailer? I no sum times the community helps fix or rebuild homes for people that can't afford it. She needs that very badly. Would a go fund me help her I don't no. If she did get one she can't let her family no or they would look down on her. I no you no a lot of people that could help her PLEASE HELP HER also she doesn’t have heat or air as of last summer her system went down and she can’t afford to get it fixed
Hey Jeremy, First of all thanks for helping her with whatever you have been able to do. I have know idea where she lives so need to know that first, but we have some great resources to reach out to through Share Charlotte see the attached link. We have organizations like Love Inc and others that may be of help just not sure about working with a the trailor. I do hope this helps if your local to our area.
https://sharecharlotte.org/search/nonprofits
Dave
I have a 985 gallon commercial water heater that is working fine only there is no hot water coming out of the faucet only cold on both sides what's the problemPMPM
Billy, That would be hard to say without being onsite.
Dave
I have a Crane toilet and have been informed that this is a good old unit.
I am having problems with the flush and was told that I need to clean the jet in the toilet to help push the waste out. I have not been able to find what tools I might need and just how to do this job Will you be able to help me with getting this information as I really do not want to replace this unit?
Thank you so much
Hey Paul, Cleaning the Bowl Siphon Jets:
The siphon jets are small openings under the rim of the bowl.
If these jets become clogged, your toilet will not flush properly.
Flush the toilet and watch how the water flows, it should swirl.
If it comes straight down, the holes need cleaning.
Inspect the rim openings with a mirror. If they are clogged with mineral deposits, first empty the tank and bowl using the following procedure:
Turn off the water to the tank (at the wall supply) and flush the toilet.
Fill a large bucket with 1 gallon of water and pour that water into the toilet bowl.
Use a hanger or a paper clip as a "pipe cleaner" to clean out the holes at the rim.
If the scale that exists is too hard to remove, try this trick to soften things up:
Fill the tank with 1 gallon of pure vinegar (any kind). The vinegar travels from the tank into the rim of the toilet. Let it sit there for as long as possible (24 hours is good enough to clean the rim holes).
Dave
We have two toilets in the house. One toilet works fine. The other toilet I’m assuming has a break in the pipe that goes to the outside. I’ve told roots out of it. At this point I cannot get even a snake to go in through the toilet I am a renter I am not going to pull the toilet off the floor is there a second blowout on the house on the side where the trouble toilet is
Hey John, Not sure how to help on this one withour being onsite. It could be the toilet having the issue is close to an exterior wall and the roots are finding the moisture from a broken pie or leaking toilet flange. I would have a professional look at it and let the owner know the issue before damage occurs to the residence.
Thanks,
Dave
Do you do work in Gaston county ,Gastonia?
Yes, we do, Robert. Give us a call if you need service!
Hello David,
Had kitchen sink faucet replaced for it was leaking water around the bottom of the main neck on top. But, this new faucet [no leakage] when you turn off cold or hot waters val. the water continues to run for a quick/short moment before completely stopping it flow.
What's causing this? And Can I get under there and correct this myself or should I have the installers come back out and do this themselves?
Thank You,
Hey James, If the faucet eventually stops dripping the cartridge is working properly and seems like a some sort of capilary action is taking place. I would have it looked at but may be the faucet itself and discussing with manufacture first would be the first step before calling your plumber. The water from the hose is probably what is dripping until it stops and if teflon or something like that was used it could be wicking causing the dripping?
Thanks,
dave
I'm replacing the waterline from the sidewalk to the house, because right after the turnoff going towards the house, it's leaking. So I dug under the sidewalk , towards the turn off. There is 3quater inch pipe going into aalmost roundish looking fitting and then the turn on.I cut the3quarterpipe so I could turn it out. The fitting pieceis turning too and doesn't come off, what do I o.
Hey Bill, I would need to see a picture to be able to help guide you on this one. I have my email below so you can send me what it looks like.
Thanks,
Dave
dparker@erplumbing.com
Hi Dave: I have a 35 year old house and the tub and shower fixtures have never been replaced. Moen
I discovered an adapter by Moen that will allow me to use the existing valve. (The current screws being in the 5-7 position, and the new diagonal.) Would you recommend I continue? In addition, do all of the shower head pipes screw on the plumbing behind the wall? I don't want to try removing it, in case mine isn't.
Thank you.
Hey Doug, The Moen valve is an easy retrofit when changing trim. The connections in the wall regarding the water lines and shower riser you won't have to touch. The shower head and gooseneck can be done from the bathroom side. I would change the trim and look for some you tube videoes on retrofitting your Moen valve trim.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxoOelg7ah8
If I buy a new tub faucet, will that stop the leaking
Hey Tim, That would not help you. The stem or cartridge is your issue and can sometimes just need a washer but it's all internally in the faucet body itself.
Dave
plumber came 3 x in 2 years same problem clogg sink was told to pour hot water once a week ,still clogg .Im tired paying this plumber for the same problem last call was just 3 months ago, to think that i dont even use my disposal. 2nd time im posting my dilemma and i havent got a reply
Veronica, Not sure how old your plumbing is but you may ask for it to be pressure jetted. Its really hard to determine without being onsite could be vent related or just buildup within the walls of the pipe a cable machine will never clear. I would use something that eats waste like enzymes versus hot water that way your cleaning the walls of the pipe because they multiply.
http://www.bio-clean.com/bioclean/
Thanks,
Dave
Dave: For the purpose of communication, I like to use the right terms. I typically her the word "toilet". I hear some people call it "the commode" once in a blue moon. Of course I've also heard "stool", "john", "potty", and "throne". In the horse/buggy days, I hear it was called "the water closet". In England, it is called "the loo". What name would you say is most appropriate. Or does it even matter?
Thanks,
Steve
Hey Steve, I have grown up calling it a water closet or toilet but personally for communication they are all correct answers where most will know what your talking about. Lol
Dave
I have a toilet that I was told had been over tightened..what is required to fix this...the plumber that told me that apparently has no interest in fixing it..its been months
Hey Kathy, It sounds like the toilet flange may be broke so nothing short of pulling the toilet and replacing the flange will work.
I have a leaky outside water faucet that I am trying to repair. I live in a split foyer duplex built In 1964. I removed the handle and packing nut but can’t budge the value stem. The plumbing for the outside runs between the upper unit’s floor and the lower’s ceiling and it not accessible without tearing up the floor and want to avoid that if at all possible. What I am concerned about is busting something that would necessitate that action. My questions are:
1) If there is a packing nut should it be possible to remove the value stem from the outside or are there other things to consider? Not sure how things might have been plumbed back in the 60s.
2) If I should be able to remove the value stem what other actions should I take to remove it?
Hey Bob, If you could send me a picture of your spicket it would be helpful. The bib should have a nut behind the packing on the body but really depends on brand? I have my email attached feel free to shoot me a picture.
Thanks,
Dave
dparker@erplumbing.com
I moved into a new house about three months ago and Everytime I do dishes or wash a load of clothes the floor drain in the basement laundry room backs up. They are on a separate drain than the rest of the house. I was told that it is a grey water drain it goes into a 2" iron pipe in the concrete floor and I can't find the discharge end of the pipe. I can't find any where that looks like water is draining on the outside. But, it does drain just very slow and since it's flooding my shop I have to try and make sure all of my tools are up but I have a lot of tools. Also, it is about 15 feet lower than the main drain line going to the septic was wondering what I could try to do to fix clog or to try and find the end of the pipe
Hey Jason, If the line is metal you can have a private locater trace the line to the outside termination point or have a plumber use a camera which may be a good starting point. If the line is 2" a plumbing camera should be able to tell you all you need. I'm guessing you have a drywell and French drain of some sort outside.
Thanks,
Dave
I need to know what type of push pull shower faucet we have in an older hone.
Hey Kathleen, Can you send a picture? dparker@erplumbing.com
I got my bathroom redone 2 yrs ago. Currently, there is no hot water coming into the sink or shower, and the shower pressure is low, but goes higher if I turn the sink faucet on. No hot water in either. Contractor says it's a clogged pipe and wants to replace piping. This is a second floor washroom, main floor hot water is fine. Any suggestions?
Hey Bibi, I don't know the age of house but do you have galvanized piping? I would first think its related to old corroded piping from the sound of things maybe you have pictures of the renovation that may help determine what and how things were installed.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a question about relocating my tub facet. I want to turn my tub, for more room, but was told I couldn't relocate the facet on the wall, because the water lines can't go around a corner. If this is correct, then why?
Paul, I don't understand why not you may have to notch the corner and add plate guards but should be able to work.
Thanks,
Dave
Okay i live in a trailer and the matience man said the neighbors house was cloged up with wipes in the system saying we only have kids its are fault. We dont flush wipes how could this be us are plumbing works fine. could it be us? i only done small water lines so im asking a professional i don't like having to pay for something thats not my fault.
Hey Troy, I'm not sure how a neighbors house would be connected to yours. Is your system on septic or city sewer either way you should have your own connection and may share the main trunk line. I feel this would be hard to prove without knowing how the line is ran and how many are connected to the main sewer line. If you are the only one with kids or grandchildren they are probably pointing things your way. I would say adults use wipes as well from cleaning counter tops to sanitizing hands and more.
Thanks,
Dave
Inquiring about removing a toilet on the second floor and replacing it with a newer model with stronger suction when flushed . You serviced our home last year and sent your professional employee , Nick H. He was very thorough and provided great customer service .
Please advise if you do toilet removal and installation of a new toilet . Also , what is the average price range for this service ?
Hey Janet, We defiantly supply and install toilets and Nick can help you if you like. The toilet prices very on make and model we like Toto and would probably suggest the Comfort height model which is what most homeowners pick. If you call the office when you get a chance the girls should be able to help with price or connect you with Nick if you like.
Dave
I have a R75LS and it is set for 120 degrees. It's just not hot enough. I've looked at it but can't find a way to adjust the temperature up.
Hey Timothy, The Tankless units have a lock out feature for protection of scalding and can be adjusted with the dip switches or remote panel easily.
https://media.rinnai.us/salsify_asset/s-c20eac38-ff9b-4e0b-903a-7d9216e44066/100000382-C199%20Indoor%20Technical%20Data%20Sheet.pdf
Dave
I have very poor water pressure in my shower...and that is one place I don't want to skimp...I took the handle off the valve and it has "ECO" engraved on the stem. What does this mean in terms of gpm? and what can I do to increase my gpm?
Hey Marc, Have you removed the water restriction device from the shower head that would be the first thing we would do?
Dave
Hi Dave,
So I have what I believe/ researched is to be a blower vented water heater that came with my townhouse purchase 2.5 years ago. I was fixing my furnace today and just happened to notice by chance that a PVC pipe coming out of the blower, that goes about 45 degree vertical into another PVC pipe that’s sticking out of my wall next to furnace/ AC vent, had disconnected.
I banged the ends back together and stuck the far end back into the water heater blower. Later I returned home to hear a bubbling noise coming from the little room my furnace and water heater. The noise was coming from a clear tube that’s looped in a circle, with a little bit of water in the loop, that’s coming out of my water heater and runs into a drain pipe in the concreate floor.
Then I washed my hands and my kitchen sink and the hot water came out literally steaming hot. It’s never done that.. so now I’m left with 2 questions for you...
1. What’s the PVC pipe called that’s coming out of the blower and what is the function of that pipe? Now that I reconnected it this morning it’s now very hot to the touch.
2. What’s this clear looped tube coming out the heater and making a bubbly noise and draining into the floor?
What I believe is happening..
When I reconnected that separated PVC, it created steam pressure that built up in the tank and that clear tube is possibly venting the steam.
The PVC pipe coming out the blower is steam also.. therefor making the water super super hot (kitchen sink).
I turned the water thermostat down, now the bubbling noise stopped. Not sure if I “fixed it”. What can you tell me about this situation?? Ty kindly!
Aaron,
Aaron, It sounds like you have a power vented water heater. The pvc line is for exhaust and should be vented to outside so very important it stays connected. The plastic tubing is for condensate this is a high efficiency water heater and the loop is to stay as well so it traps water and no gases leave the tubing. I would check your thermostat and see if someone has adjusted or hit it accidently? I would also make sure the vent is clear with no obstruction preventing venting to outside. I would hire a professional if you cant seem to figure it out the thermostat may be acting up and don't want any scalding with personal use.
Thanks,
Dave
Had to disassemble the kitchen sinks/garbage disposal due to a clog.
In re-assembling, inserting the 1½" pipe from the P-trap into the externally threaded galvanized pipe has a leak, even tho I replaced the teflon? seal which goes around the plastic pipe & the nut is as tight as it was.
What alternative sealants are available? The leak is not significant, but keeping a pan under the leak is not a long-term solution.
Thanks for your assistance. I've spent A LOT of time reading your solutions, you can tell your better half I appreciate her allowing you to do this.
Hey Bill, WE see this happen frequently and probably related the metal threads. We usually try and replace the galvanized arm coming out of the wall but takes a good size wrench and sealant when threading new arm back into wall. The other option is a tubular fernco adapter just explain to your local box store plumbing rep that works that isle. The pipe coming from the wall will be iron pipe size and the trap tubular so you will have some difference in pipe size so you know.
https://www.fernco.com/plumbing/residential-plumbing/tubular-drain-pipe-connector
Thanks,
Dave
Hi got leaking overflow pipe outside is it safe to put heating on as can’t get anyone out till tomorrow and don’t know what pipe is which as there two pipes
Hey Jan, If you are saying the water heater relief valve is leaking outside you should be fine until a service man can come out. If it's a condensate line for air conditioning system it depends on whether it's the primary or secondary line leaking. I would check the pans any appliances sit in and make sure no water is present in them.
Thanks,
Dave
Plumbers put outgoing pipe on our side of duplex. We can hear when they use water. Am I now paying for their bill?
Hey Michelle, If you have your own meter you should be fine. If you are concerned about it look at the meter when you hear it running and see if it spins. It is not out of the norm to hear others plumbing system if the walls between units have plastic versus cast-iron pipe on the waste or if the walls aren't insulated very well.
Thanks,
Dave
Thank you, Dave!
Welcome!!
Hey Dave!
I have a two-handle bathroom faucet. When the cold tap is turned on, water leaks out of the stem of the hot water tap. I don't notice any leak when only the hot tap is on. Do I need to replace the stem of the hot water side, or can I just replace the outer O-ring? There is no leak with both taps turned off.
Hey Jay, It would depend on brand and most cartridges come all in one piece so would consider replacing everything but doesn't hurt trying the outer O-ring first from what it sounds like is happening and make sure it's in tight and not loose.
Thanks,
Dave
i live upstairs of 2 story apartment unit, if my double kitchen sink was clogged on both sides and the pipes didnt connect to each other but led into wall separately, is it possible the clog was from me? or is it from the main line? Below my kitchen sink is my neighbors garage. When my sinks were backed up and i tried using a plunger, a lot of water came pouring down door of garage into driveway.
Hey Jay, I'm sorry for the late reply. The arms for each sink will lead to the same stack in the wall and drain down to the lower floors so yes it is possible that it was your individual backup if the neighbor below wasn't having the same issue?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I have to install a new water valve for my dishwasher which happens to be an Accor Valve. What is the best valve to replace it with and when I turn the water off to the house to replace it do I have to do anything special to the Hot Water Heater?
Hey Ken, I would shut down the entire house water or the hot valve on top of the heater and use a brass craft compression angle stop. I hate the plastic valves they scare me to death.
https://youtu.be/_0UW5QHRg34
Hi again Dave....I had ask about uneven water pressure in my mobile home and just to give you an update...it was the pressure switch needing replaced...it was about 16 years old but didn't use the pump until 8 months ago after moving on the property....hope this helps someone...we replaced it ourselves....of course now the pressure control valve needs replaced....so we will be working on that next because it is leaking...we hope to be able to relax after that.Thanks for being here for us.
That's Awesome Debi great to hear!
Just installed a new electric tankless hot water heater and I get hot water everywhere but my tub. I disconnected the hot water line going to the tub and turned water back on and it was luke warm what would cause this to happen
Hey Kevin, I'm not a big fan of electric tankless units especially with higher flow fixtures like a tub which uses more volume or multiple fixtures ran at the same time. If you think about it the higher flow is hard to heat fast enough as the water runs past the elements. I would say if this has been an issue since inception and worked fine before with the last heater you had the issue is it can't keep up?
Thanks,
Dave
After checking the pressure switch it looks good but Sparks when it comes on and shuts off real fast. I thought a pump should run for a few minutes to pump water in the tank. The pump is in the ground for our well water. I don't know anything about pumps so excuse me if I sound stupid.The water pressure is uneven when I turn on faucet.Tried running every faucet at once.Doesnt help clear any air out if that's the problem.What do you think?
Hey Debi, We would need to be onsite to figure out any further sorry to say. I have a video attached and plenty more to be found just type in your situation and see if something comes up if not need to hire a professional.
https://youtu.be/gJxjA5eDOS8
I have a marey eco 180 instant waterheater .... i need to bypass a circuit board internally so the unit will run is this a possibility ?
Hey Steven, I'm sorry but just not familiar with this unit so don't want to tell you something wrong.
Dave
Please help....our new mobile home has well water. After living in it for about 8 months now we've noticed our water is having uneven water pressure and we hear thumping noises as it changes in pressure.What can be the problem?
Debi, It sounds like the well tank pressure switch area possibly the check valve. I would have a well technician have a look at it you may even have an issue at the well casing area maybe leak on the water pipe riser?
Thanks,
Dave
I recently changed over some plumbing from galvanized to pex in my bathroom remolding job. I turned the main water shut off to the house while installing the new plumbing. Now when the main is turned back on that bathroom and my washing machine really don’t have hot water like the kitchen and the other bathroom in the house and I can’t figure out what could be going on . I don’t have a basement and that bathroom and washing machine hook ups run off of the same line .
Hey Scott, It sounds like more galvanized piping is installed on the branch to those locations or small particles may have gotten in the fixtures and need to be blown out. If you can access all the piping you may have to install more to replace the old metal lines. I would want to start at the hot connection where the new pipes were run and see if you have proper flow and temps at that area.
Thanks,
Dave
We just had our m. bathroom redone. The plumber installed a Moen rain shower head and removed the water saver devise without our consent and told us after he was finished. I was furious, I did not want it removed. Is that legal what he did?
Hey Carolyn, Any plumbing fixtures and faucets are made to conserve water under the water conservation act. We do see them removed quite a bit but usually at the request of a client not sure about the legality of removing? I would have him reinstall if you didn't specifically ask it be removed he should take care of you by putting it back in the shower head at his expense if tossed out.
Thanks,
Dave
How do you keep the dain in the bathroom from smelling? This has room has been remodeled and the drain smelled before. Is this due to the shavin cream?
Hey Tim, I would use some form of friendly bacteria like Bio Clean on the sink but pay attention to how its vented as well? The builders are using Studer Vents now days which are mechanical vents versus fresh air if you have one it could be under the sink and needs to be replaced. It may be vented properly but needs cleaning that's where treating it should help.
http://www.bio-clean.com/bioclean/
Thanks,
Dave
My ice maker has been in place for 18 years and works perfectly except for the slowness. Believe the problem is insufficient water flow because the tube that connects to the ice maker is partially clogged. Can it be cleaned or replaced?
Hey Barbara, I would have to see your unit but surely anything impeding flow could be the cause of being slow. I would think the water supply could be replaced to the unit versus cleaning but would also consider replacing at that age it's due.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I am a part of a small Non-Profit called "A Giving Heart Project". We do a project once a month in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. We would love to partner with you on some of your Do Good With Dave events. How can we connect with you? We recently warmed the homeless in uptown Charlotte and plan to feed March 9. Please let me know how we can come and support one of your events.
Hey Adrienne, Just email me right now we are trying to help Bright Blessings this month. I can lead you in the right direction to several local things we are actively involved with.
Thanks,
Dave
dparker@erplumbing.com
Hi Dave, We are having problems with choosing the correct additive for the water tank. We are currently using a salt that is supposed to take care of iron in the water. Yes, the water is soft, BUT all the shower heads are clogged AND I still have those annoying brown rings in the toilet I cannot scrub out! What do we do? Thanks.
Christy, I would have a water quality report done to make sure you getting what you need for the water supply system. I have a link attached that can help you test and identify your issues for quotes to be submitted for you specific needs. If you look under the dropdown for consumer products you will find testing for particular system.
https://watercheck.com/
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Trista,
It’s hard to say what the other valve is without seeing but may be the house shut off valve? If it looks like the other two valves it could be something that use to serve a humidifier or something in the attic?
Under my bathroom sink I have three shut off valves. One for hot water to faucet, one for cold water to faucet, and one without a supply line. I initially thought maybe it was the shut off for my stall shower, but that’s not the case. Nor is it for the toilet. WHAT IS IT FOR? #confused
Hi Dave, we need your help. We live in a 2 storey house and we are having problems with water in the basement! It appears we have a leak in the 3” abs coming from upstairs inside the wall. The water can be seen on the floor and on the foundation wall! Once l find the leak what’s the best way to repair leak? I have punched several holes in the wall in the kitchen and have determined the leak must be behind the lower kitchen cupboards! Just wondering if it could just be a bad glue joint? What’s your thoughts?
Hey Bill, I don't know how long you have lived in the house or age but would think a glue joint would hold if it has for years. Have you hung anything or do you think the baseboards or cabinets had nails shot into the pipe which has finally rusted out. We actually see that all the time your just going to need to trace it and hope that the issue is accessible form the basement and the leak isn't dripping from above. You could also have a cleanout plug in the wall down low not sealed and threaded in very well. I would say if it's not constantly leaking it probably would not be the water supply if only leaks when sink is draining.
Thanks,
Dave
Dave: That's just what we did! My son-in-law came over & turned off the hot water heater & valve by the overflow tank. He said it was just going to keep trying to fill back up & keep running. The stores were closed, but he's coming over tomorrow & replace the overflow tank for me ( since it sprang a leak). The water quit running in the basement now. He doesn't think anything's wrong with my water heater, so that is a huge relief. THANK YOU for your quick response & Help! MUCH APPRECIATED!
That's Great Jennifer! Glad we could help
Hi Dave: I'm having a problem with my hot water heater overfill tank. It has sprung a leak on the side of it ( small hole) but it really seems to be under LOTS of pressure. Hot (Very warm) water is squirting out of the hole. My basement floor is somewhat wet & my basement ceiling has water dripping from it & it's steamy in the basement. I haven't used the hot water for hours. So I thought the pressure in the overflow tank would die down, but its still spraying out like CRAZY!. It's the weekend, so I couldn't get ahold of any plumbers for answers on what to do. Is there someway I can get the hot water to quite blasting out of the tank & relieve this pressure, until I can get a plumber here? Why would it be doing this??? Is my hot water heater going bad? I don't want anything to explode! I also noticed earlier, when doing dishes, that the hot water was EXTREMELY hot. I haven't used any since then, just to be safe. Can I use just cold water until I get this looked at or use NO water ( hot or cold) at all? I don't know if this has anything to do with this, but my neighbor said sewage backed up into his basement this morning & they came to rotoroot ( snake) out his pipes. I know we have old city pipes that get root problems frequently. But I don't think this has anything to do with my hot water heater overflow tank problem. If there is a spigot or valve I can shut off to stop this pressure, please tell me exactly where it would be, because I'm not very plumbing savvy. THANK YOU for any help or ideas!
Hey Jennifer, I would shut the water heater off! The valve should be on the right top of the water heater on the incoming pipe until you can get a plumber to the house.
https://www.instructables.com/id/Water-Heater-Maintenance/
Thanks,
Dave
We have noticed decreased water pressure in our showers and sinks. Husband checked some valve and said it wasn’t that (we are on well water). Our ice maker is barely making any ice and the water from the fridge comes out very slowly. When we flush the toilets they slowly fill back up with water. Could these all be separate issues or are we missing a much bigger problem? Where do we start?
Hey Miranda, It sounds like a well issue possibly with the pressure switch or bladder tank. The problem would be at the source if all fixtures are having issues as stated and would have the system looked at by a professional.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi heres what going on , I have cold water but no hot in bath tub. . Its an old tub, its a daul tub with shower lift in spout. What do i need do do
Margaret, I would want to check the type of piping you have and the cartridge for the hot line supply. I don't feel it would be something you would want to tackle and would get a professional to look at this for you. If you have hot water to the sink its defiantly in the valve itself or piping to that specific fixture.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a leak in my upstairs tub that only happens when someone is in the tub (taking a shower). Advice?
Hey Martha, I would say look out for several things.
1. Pay attention to the tub spout when diverted to shower does it spray backwards towards the wall where the hole was drilled for the pipe that comes out and spout fits on.
2. Make sure the shower arm the comes out of the wall and the head attaches to is properly sealed and not loose.
3. The trim plates on the wall are sealed so water doesn't spray off your body and trickle behind the plate.
4. The tub waste overflow is tight some times the washer is not sealed properly to check the screw and tighten on the plate if needed to draw the washer in.
5. Make sure when someone is showering the water is not getting outside of it when it sprays off your body because it could end up outside of the tub and dripping downstairs the corners are the worst for this.
6. I would fill the tub from the spout as a test not the shower head and up to the overflow. I would drain it and see if it leaks? If it doesn't try the shower without someone in it and if it leaks concentrate on the spout and head area and possably the valve itself.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello can you give me a call asap about some work i have for you my number is 07531989898 thanks .Mike.
Mike, You can call the office and they can help direct you. I see your email is in the UK
Thanks
I’m moving my shower supply lines to the opposite side of existing. Is it wrong to cross the lines in an X pattern to get hot to left and cold to right
David, That is no problem at all the only thing that matters is that hot is on left and cold on right no matter how it gets to the fixture your piping.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, I just replaced the air valves of 2 of my baseboard radiators located on the lower level of my home that were leaking, and water is still leaking out of the air vents of the new valve's I replaced. I have turned off the radiator and open up the air vent fully hoping all the water will drain out before I close it back, but it has been over half an hour and water is still spouting out. Any suggestions. Thank you!
Myrna, We don't actually work on radiators that's more on the HVAC side of things. I don't know how to answer your question on this one sorry to say.
Thanks,
Dave
Thanks, that's great. I see why now. The single handle anti scald that's in there now with no volume control is less expensive and I suppose the contractor assumed it was generally acceptable and didn't ask me before putting it in, and I just assumed I would be getting equal to what I had. Well, I've learned something, about tub fixtures and to pay attention to all the details of the process and never assume anything - thanks so much!
Your Welcome!
having a little problem in my back yard. i notice two little air bubbles bubbling from the ground causing a small stream of water to flow downward. also this particular area have a smell of a gaseous odor coming from it and the water is very clear. What could this be?
Harold, It sounds like you may have a full septic system and perking well from all the rain? I'm just guessing but are you on a septic system.
Thanks,
Dave
using a Grundfos pump for hot water can u install more then one manifold in different places in house
Hey Chris, Your not suppose to but cant say we haven't before. I would say give it a try and see if it helps the fixture your still having an issue with and if doesn't just remove it. You may also just want to change where the current one is located to see if it works any better. We always try the furthest fixture but sometimes have to move them around because how the house is piped.
Thanks,
Dave
Thanks Dave, yes this helps - I need to have a fixture with volume control. I find it very strange that the majority of homes would have this type of thing with no volume control. There are so many things wrong with that - such as, the hot water runs out too quickly- you use more water than you need- you can't slowly adjust the temperature of the bath when you're in it- you can't give a small child a light shower, you can't leave the tub alone to fill slowly. To me this is a downgrade, not an upgrade, not good for a new bathroom that had volume control before the renovation. So, I will need to insist on a fixture with volume control and possibly need to find a plumber to do it depending on what the contractor can or can't do.
Kathi, I have a link attached for one application of many that would work.
https://www.deltafaucet.com/bathroom/product/T17288-SS
I'm remodeling the bathroom. The contractor put in a new tub and the fixture that turns the water on/off doesn't allow the water to run at a slow speed, iow, it's a circular fixture with a palm-size handle that points down. To turn the water on, the handle is moved counterclockwise. So if I move it a tiny bit cold water comes moderately fast but as I move the handle further up to get hot water, there is no way to control how much water comes out, it just rushes out at full speed. And also the handle only moves 180 degrees, or, from south to north, even though it is on a circular base that would seem to be made to turn 325 degrees around at least. So there's no flow control and the handle only moves half-way around the fixture.
So the only way I can get hot water, to fill the tub, or to shower, is to have it gushing out at full throttle, and I was told by my contractor that the fixture apparatus, according to code, had to have "scorch-protection". I said I'm not talking about that, Scorch protection, code or not, is less important to me than being able to choose what kind of water flow I want, slow, medium, high and/or in between. He shrugged.
So I found this column and realized it is a perfect place to find some helpful information. It's a question about whether I need to insist on a better quality fixture, or if it has to do with how the faucet fixture is set up, such as the water mixer I've seen mentioned here. And what do I need to say to the contractor to have him understand (if applicable based on your answer) that there needs to be a fix for this. Especially any specifics I can relate so the contractor knows I have the right information and can't be hoodwinked on this.
Thank you so much, I appreciate any help you might have and I hope you can answer my questions without too much trouble.
Sincerely,
K. Bloom
Kathi, The single handle anti scald pressure balanced valves do not have volume control options. The shower would need a thermostatic valve set at your desired temperature and a volume control to perform like your wanting or purchase a valve with separate handles. The majority of homes now all have the same valve your contractor installed hope this helps.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a problem with clear water coming in under my toilet when I flush or use my shower and bath and kitchen sinks. I don't think I have any clogs. I actually think the problem is drainage from my property. My septic tank is not backing up and I've had my tank pumped twice and it is full of water again. I live in Clover, S.C. With all the rain we have had I think the water has nowhere to go. What do you think I need to do or who to talk to about this issue. This is going on the third week I have been dealing with this. I am a 67 yr. old widow living on Social Security.
Hey Cathy, I would say with all the weather the yard may not be perking very well if tank is full again. I'm not sure if you have the ability to connect to the city but that would be one option. The septic company pumping the system ay also be able to provide a solution especially with your record of pumping in such a short amount of time. I would call whoever has been servicing the system and ask if they have someone that can provide a solution. We don't work on septic systems but with all this rain which seems to be a record amount surely others may be having the same issue the ground is extremely soaked. I see no immediate fix besides pumping again and getting an assessment of your system from a qualified professional.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I bought one side of a twin-home, or duplex, where the homes are only joined by the garage wall. During the Summer heat, I get very hot water coming out of the cold tap, but only during the hot months so I know it's not hot pipes being too close to cold pipes. Due to my trusted home inspector during the purchase process, I know my pipes that can be seen are all insulated properly. Could this be from the twin side and if so, what do I do? For the last two Summers, I just run my water until it feels tolerable as soon as I got home from work so it doesn't do any damage to my fridge ice/water outlets, toilets, or clothes washer. Any suggestions? Thanks for your help!
Hey Terry, The first thing I would do is make sure nothing is crossed by shutting the hot water valve off at the top of the water heater. If you turn that valve off you should not have any water coming out of any hot side faucet once system is drained down. If the water continues to flow you may have a crossed line. The other thing to think about is the temperature setting on the heater and thermal expansion do you have and expansion tank and is the heater temp set to high. I would also want to know if you have a recirculating system installed at the water heater for quicker hot water at point of use. I would make sure the heater set temperature is at 120 for safety and seek a professional especially if you can be scalded.
Thanks,
Dave
Id like to ask a possibly crazy question but here goes, I regularly flush thing down my toilet like cereal, foods, chocolates, I try to avoid wet wipes and things that ould block the toilet almost immediately but put things that will block it if I didnt take action soon I think, I mean create a block somewhere where I cannot access to unblock it in the drain or between drain and toilet, Ive flushed things like, orbeez, small toys even, kinetic sand, bananas etc anyway I know this is crazy but how can I avoid blocking the toilet and still carry on doing what Im doing?
I thought maybe after a few weird flushes I call them, I can put some caustic soda down to make sure nothing is accumulating down there, maybe detergent and hot water another time, you know alternate between the two.
Please dont ask why I do it but I do daily, it kind of experiment for kids and I get paid for it but not much, now if the toilet keeps getting blocked then it would cost me a bomb calling out a plumber each time, maybe I could get insured for my crazy activity?
Or make a deal with a local plumber and explain about the high call outs and he/she may give me a very reasonable rate, or finally just learn about toilet plumbing myself, guys sorry about the strange question but what advice can you give me in my situation? Thank you.
Gerald
ps Please forgive the strange question, and Happy CHRISTmas to you all, and pray 2019 will keep you well and safe and happy.
Gerald, You have to figure a way to stop this or it will cost you a major amount of money for repairs. It will get even worse cost wise if your home is on a concrete slab and have to cut floors to remove objects. I have no way of helping you with this its going to have to be something you try and stop before flooding the house with sewage and having to deal with bigger issues. The items your putting down the toilet are not made for the pipes to carry or move and the city utilities to treat.
Blessings,
Dave
We just had a new Rheem water heater installed about two weeks ago. In the last three days or so we have experienced an odor of eggs when our hot water is running. HELP. Christmas guests on their way. Any suggestions or thoughts?
Sounds like your on a well system? The heater could be treated with peroxide for immediate help but may want to switch the anode rod to an aluminum/zinc alloy and probably need a plumber for this.
http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/Troubleshooting/stinky-water-in-hot-water-heaters.html
Thanks,
Dave
Merry Christmas Dave!
I installed brand new faucets, supply lines and valves for our kitchen (downstairs) and 3 bathrooms (2 bathrooms upstairs). The main line had to be turned off for the installation of the water valves. Once these installations were complete, the kitchen and downstairs bathroom have perfect water pressure. The two upstairs faucets have no pressure, only a trickle. The aerators were removed with no change in pressure (we though they could be clogged once the main line valve was turned on). The toilets and showers have perfect water pressure in these upstairs bathrooms, yet these brand new sink faucets are have no pressure. We find no leaks anywhere in the house.
Is there air in the lines going upstairs? Are the brand new faucets defective (not likely)? I plan on unhooking the valve connection to each faucet and test the pressure. Any ideas? thanks
Happy Jesus Birthday Grant! The part you said about disconnecting the supply lines and running them into a bucket is something we would do as well. We have found pressures changes will very with different types of faucets. I would find it hard to believe two sets of faucets are doing the same thing and can't imagine four angle stops going bad. I would make sure the supply lines are not kinked but sounds like your on top of everything simple to test. The other thing you could do after the supply line to bucket test if low pressure still is a problem is turn the water off to the house and take the packing nuts off the angle stops to check for debris.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I had to replace my drain hose to my dishwasher, My husband laid it on it's back to do this but now it won't stay running, it cuts on and off kinda. Well not quite on and off but starts and stops. Can you give me advice?
Roberta, Make sure the hose is not clear and hasn't been kinked during installation. The hose also needs to be looped up high before connecting under the sink. It may need to be looked at by an appliance man could be something electronic acting up? I would say if it was working before the new hose installation hopefully its something simple and related to what the hubby did.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
Curious to hear your opinion regarding a problem with my shower.
Shower was functioning properly on Sunday, then Monday morning when my husband turned it on, it ran for about 10-15 seconds, then sputtered out, and no water has ran from it since. All of the other sinks and toilets in the house are functioning normally.
We’ve never previously had issues with pipes freezing, but I suppose it’s possible.
Our shower has a rain shower head and a hand-held attachment, both of which are not working.
The shower is on an exterior wall of the 2nd story so I can’t access the pipes easily.
Any tips/ideas before I call a professional?
Hey Christine, I'm sorry for the late reply was out of town without access to my system. I would say if the weather was below freezing the day this happened and on an exterior wall as you said it has a high probability that it froze. I would say chances of insulating better would be hard now because you have no access behind the tile or enclosure. I would make it a point to run this fixture with a stream of water in extreme weather conditions to reduce the chance of freezing if no access can be obtained to insulate better. It doesn't sound like the plumber protected the piping on the exterior wall very well and running the water while your trying to sleep will drive you crazy but not much you can do without getting into the wall. If you could look outside or have access underneath area and see anything that could cause a draft in the wall try and seal it.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello, I live in a townhouse, that is part of an entire complex . Almost every month the plastic pipes in the ground break, and they turn off the water for everyone. But my question is if the "regulator" for the one pipe outside of one unit needs to be changed, because water is leaking. Will the water for everyone also needs to be turned off ?
Thank you!
Hey Ela, If the pressure reducing valve needs to be replaced on the individual unit service line and doesn't have a valve in front of it you would have to shut the water main off to the community in order to install a new one.
Thanks,
Dave
About 4-5 times a day, I hear a sound that resembles someone turning water on or a tank filling but it only lasts for about 10 seconds. Could it be a leak? Toilet tank partially re-filling? It has been occurring for a long time but seems more frequent recently
Gary, It defiantly sounds like a toilet issue. I would put die like food coloring in the toilet tank not the bowl and see if it ends up in the bowl. If you see die after putting in the tank come into the bowl you have an issue with the flapper or flush valve that needs service.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
Thanks for your response.....The pressure throughout the house is normal. I haven't checked it with a pressure gauge but it seems to be the same without noticing an increase.
The shower faucet seems to be the only area where the water is coming out at a high rate. I was figuring maybe a part in the valve (cartridge?) needs to be replaced?
What do you think?
Thanks again for your input.
Hey Sal, The water pressure should be the same throughout the house its all interconnected. I don't know if you have two showers but is the other the same pressure or is the shower head r valve different? I would try a new shower head with a water saver yours might have been removed during installation. The new shower heads or any faucets come with water saving parts to conserve. The cartridge should not cause an increase in pressure and all fixtures are served from the same source but faucets and flow rates can change depending on brand and type. I would ask has this always been an issue or just started that's important to know as well.
Hi Dave,
I have a Moen single lever shower faucet and when I pull the handle out I get too much water coming out of the shower head. I push the handle slightly in and the water decreases but it starts to make noise and I have to adjust it again.
How do I repair what I just described above?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Sal Pastino
Sal, I would check the pressure on the house first sounds high? The home pressure should not exceed 80psi and a simple way to test is go to the box store and get a gauge for the hose connection outside and turn it on to read. If the pressure is fine you may need a plumber to have a look.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Brady-2-in-Pressure-Test-Gauge-BTGIND-CS-NL/204198958
Thanks,
Dave
Hey Dave, This morning I noticed water bubbling ( a small waterfall) in my backyard. After digging around it (not very deep) I found It's from a black plastic pipe (6" maybe) that has a cap on the end. About 2" from the cap the pipe has sprung 2 leaks. What is this pipe for and who do I call...a plumber or the water company? Thanks so much!
Hey Kelly, The back yard is not usually where water would enter the house but maybe you have a well system. If you have a small black pipe leaking it could be the water service and you would need a plumber not the city because its private property. The pipe if water would not be any larger than 3/4 or 1" and is very common to leak when black poly. If the pipe is larger you may have something else going on? The water line should be buried deeper if you live in a cold climate than what you have stated on approxamate depth.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I was in my crawl space last week and I noticed water dripping from my floor joists. Since these particular joists are located next to where the gas line enters my house for the stove I was able to easily locate the leak. I opened up my wall to find that the sewer pipe is leaking. The pipe runs from my upstairs down to the crawl space and it is leaking at floor level, at the seam, where the pipe sits into the elbow joint. Obviously the area around the pipe is wet, but it does not smell. I also put my hand up in the wall to make sure there wasn't a leak coming from above. There is no purple primer around the pipe, I don't know if this is because they didn't use any or because they did things differently when my house was built (1989 and I am in Charlotte). I did find it odd that water was leaking from here because the pipe sits in the joint and the water/sewage drains down. This led me to think there could be a blockage, but I have no gurgling toilets and there is no sewage backing up in places it shouldn't be. Do you think clogged sewer lines are my problem or does this portion of pipe just need to be replaced?
Thank you,
Jen
Hey Jen, It sounds like you have already diagnosed the problem. I would say if the line was stopped up you would hear gurgling like you said or water will rise in the lowest fixture rim. I think you may have a bad glue joint like you said if you have no water coming down the vertical pipe. We find nails or screws in pipes all the time where things like cabinets, pictures, crown or base boards are located so make sure the riser is not leaking and check the backside with a mirror if needed. I think from what your saying you will need to change the elbow to solve the issue but just verify again try filling tubs or sinks than dumping so you have a greater amount of flow to test.
Thanks,
Dave
Thank you for your reply Dave. Good Information.
I looked at a couple of valves at Home Depot and found the below one. Does the 1/2 inch in the description refer to the pipe size.
1/2 in. Brass MPT x MHT Front Operated Dual Washing Machine Valve at Home Depot:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-1-2-in-Brass-MPT-x-MHT-Front-Operated-Dual-Washing-Machine-Valve-VWMDUAF3EB/205812092
And this one does look just like mine but was not sure if they were all the same size. I tried to reply to your message using the "reply" but I could not get that feature to work.
In the video it does look simple so I will consider doing it myself or I will contact your company to get a quote to do the install since it sounds like in your below message this is not a part you have in stock. Thank you for your help. This is a great feature to have on your website.
Hi Dave,
My washing machine's one lever shut off valve is dripping right below the lever. It has two big screws on each side basically like the one shown being replaced in the below Youtube video. Mine is also set inside a box behind the washer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyTN83SrlY8
I live in the Charlotte area and wanted to know how much your company would charge to put in a new shut off valve behind my washer. I had another plumber look at it but he talked about cutting into the wall and based on the video, it seem you just need to unscrew the old one and screw in the new one. Is that correct and would your company do that type of work?
Thank you, Kathleen
Hey Kathleen, The plumber probably didn't know you could replace from above. I would say order it the tsk seems very simple and user friendly. It seems so simple anyone could do it with a screw driver and all you need is to be able to shut the house down to work on it. We can surely help you if you want to order the part and have it onsite it works with several manufactures. Just give us a call if you want our help? I would keep the video handy to show anyone you choose this will be an easy installation and should work just as the video shows if you have the same box as one of the three they work with which are prominently used in our area. The majority of homes have the old two handle style so that's why the plumber didn't know and honestly not sure my guys would have. I will use the video in training to see if my guys new this as well.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
My shower faucet used to be off at 6:00 and fully on at 12:00. I heard a "tap" (kind of like a hammer hitting a piece of wood once.) Now, the faucet is still fully on at 12:00, but is off at 4:00. And, the hot water doesn't get as hot. Could you tell me please what is wrong and if I should call a plumber?
Thanks. Linda
Hey Linda, It sounds like the limit stop broke that fits on the handle and cartridge. I don't know your brand of faucet but sounds like a simple repair and you may be able to goggle it or find a You Tube video for repair before calling a professional. The valve may have a lifetime warranty if you call the manufacture and they could ship the part.
Thanks,
Dave
I had new taps fixed that had a bad leak. That's fixed but we now get a bad smell when we turn on the radiators. It is not there long but i can't work out if it's the radiators. I checked the floor it was a little wet but it's now dried out.
Stuart, The smell could be from several things most during initial start up of new heating season. I have a link attached with some possibilities but seek a professional if it the smell doesn't go away.
If your radiator gives off a very bad smell of bad eggs or similar when you are bleeding it (removing air via the air vent) it is probably a build up of hydrogen sulphide in the water that you can smell.
https://www.networx.com/article/bad-smell-radiator
If the hot water fixture under the sink is turned off will that guarantee pressure enough to make a pipe burst or is it more likely that the pipe would burst due to being faulty?
Hey Gloria, A pipe can burst for many reasons. If you turn off the valves under the sink it will avoid damage to the actual faucet and supply lines. If a valve bursts it would be from freezing, poor piping, or installation related.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi,
If I buy Garbage Disposal and Kitchen sink water faucet myself and ask you to install , how much does it cost ?
He Wei, Give the office a call this morning they can help youif your in our area.
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
In ref.tomy hot water comeing out the cold side, I have lived here 12 years and it just started about 3 months ago I dont have a recircuclation system. I just dont know what is causeing it I am almost 87 years
old and I cant do what I used to. Thanks for any other help you can give me.
Hey James, Do you live in the Charlotte NC area? If you did we would gladly have a look at no charge just to help you out. I really would have to get my eyes on things to help you anymore with this issue. How about turning off your washer machine valves and seeing if it makes a difference just to eliminate that area?
Thanks,
Dave
all of a sudden my cold water side has started to be hot for a little bit then turns cold I mean real hot even outside hose bibs. every one says not possiable but it is doing it help
Hey James, Do you have a recirculation system on the hot water system. If you shut the hot water valve off at the water heater does water continue to run out of the hot side faucets? If that answer is yes something is crossed in the plumbing system clearly and you have to figure out what.
Crossover Common Problems:
1. Bad check valve on recirculation system
2. Tub/Shower cartridge failure
3. Washer machine
4. Recent plumbing renavation that crossed lines
Thanks,
Dave
Hi i leave in a apartment i dropped my bag of jewelry an i accidentally flushed it down is there any way i can save it pls let me know thank you so much highly appreciate it
Lauren, The chances could be slim but worth trying. I would pull the toilet and see if it made it through the trap first. If you don't see anything after turning the toilet over than proceed to have a drain vision camera ran to see if the jewelry is in the line and never made it to the city tap? I know you will need a professional for this service and we have had success in the past but could go either way.
Good Luck,
Dave
Dear Dave,
My husband and I live in a 106 year old, 900 sq. ft. home with 1 bathroom. We recently moved back in, after having renters in our home, and while we didn't initially have any issues, that is starting to change. We have what I'm guessing is the sewer drainage pipe that runs directly down the middle of out back yard. When we moved in, we noticed that there was an opening into the pipe that didn't have a cap and when we would flush the toilet, run the shower, or do laundry there would be water over flowing from that opening. My stepdad blew air down into the pipe and added a cap. We had had torrential downpours, so the crawlspace below our house was extremely wet, but my husband claims that he noticed waste below our house. Since then, there is gurgling when we run a larger load of laundry with soapy water backing up into the shower. We are worried that there is waste coming our under our house, though there doesn't seem to be a strong sewage odor. We are nervous of the extent of damage there may be, cost, and any health hazards that could occur.
Good Morning, You have a main line stoppage. If you remove the cap your Dad installed any waste would overflow out of that pipe like it was which was a sign of a stoppage. I would hire a plumber for several reasons like is your system age and things like where it drains to city or septic. The other thing is what type of pipe you have this is a very old house. I would remove the cap that was installed until you have the stoppage fixed which will run on the ground outside like it was and the stoppage is between that cap and whatever connection you have meaning city or septic which may need to be pumped if septic. If he noticed waste under the house its concerning because you must have a pipe opened otherwise the stoppage would surface at the lowest fixture rim in the house like a shower, tub, or toilet. It was overflowing outside now the cap that was installed is making it come towards the house and wont relieve itself because of the stoppage that needs to be addressed.
Thanks,
Dave
Thanks,
Dave
Dear Dave
Recently my husband and I bought a home. The lovely couple we bought it from and just replace the septic tank. however after living in the house for a couple of days a smell has started radiating in our bathroom only in the evening time. The smell starts around 6 in the evening and diminishes around 7 or 8 in the morning.we've found the exhaust pipe busted and not venting out through the roof so we fix that the smell went away for a couple of days but now it's back what could this possibly be. It almost smells like rotten over cooked cabbage.
Desperately looking for answers Christina and Dave from My.
Christina, I would do a smoke test if someone in your area has the equipment. If they don't start by making sure the wax seals are ok on toilets and all fixtures and floor drains are primed meaning water is in the traps.
https://superiorsignal.com/your-smoke-application/plumbing
Thanks,
Dave
How much to install slop sink in garage? Drain line is on same wall as the location of sink and hot water tank is to the right on same wall but with a doorway seperating. There is 2’ above doorway to ceiling.
Hey Michael, I would think you would have water right where the drain line is usually a plumber will loop water to the plumbing stacks that feed fixtures or upstairs bathrooms. We would want to have pictures if a field visit isn't possible before pricing. We would also want to know what type of plumbing system you have for waste and water lines and if your suppling the sink and faucet.
Thanks,
Dave
My hot water heater (gas) is leaking. I turned off the gas/cold supply to it and mopped up for days. But it seems like it is still filling. When I open the bathtub faucet which mixes streams I get a dribble from both hot and cold. Could water be working it's way back in the tank from this? I tried to turn handle on hot water pipe to this bathroom but it seems stuck. I resorted to finally shutting the main off to see what happens.
Hey Vicky, It sounds like the valve to the water heater was not shutting off completely which can happen if a gate valve. The only other way the water heater can fill is if something is crossed in the house plumbing system. If you turn the main water back on and shut the water heater valve off only and you open any faucet does water come out of the hot side only? If the answer is yes water keeps flowing we would want to replace the heater valve first. If we do that and turn the water off at the heater and it is still flowing something is defiantly crossed in the house or a mixing valve like a shower cartridge is bad?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi,
I bought an ECO 450S Rinnai tankless water heater less than one year in Thailand to install it in France.
Since yesterday, it doesn't heat water anymore, the water is still cold.
The heater is correctly supplied.
What is wrong with it ?
Thank you very much.
Bo, I wish we could help you but that's not a model number I'm familiar with in the US? I will say most units we install have digital readouts that would give you fault codes to help your service man analyze and repair. I have attched a link with codes that may help you it may just need to be cleaned?
http://www.tanklesshotwaterguide.ca/about/rinnai-tankless-error-codes/
Firefighters were down the street. Just went to take a bath now there's dirt and red gunk coming out of my pipes and water. Is it due to them using the fire hydrant for the house down the street. All my other water is running clear but not the ones in the upstairs part should I be worried?
Hey Angela, The water should get better after running it for a while. The hydrant when being tested or used if shared with domestic water does not get turned on often so a rusty look and possible debris running to the fixtures will happen and should subside. I would be worried about it but would not drink any till it clears up.
Thanks,
Dave
My tub clogs once a week. I finally got it to drain, slowly. I looked in the drain and it has a metal plate covering the hole. It must drain towards the pipes. What should I do to see whats clogging it?
Hey Vicki, A stopped up drain is usually hair or soap related. I have attached a link to something that works real well for sinks and tubs and can be found at most hardware stores. If that doesn't work you may need a professional with a cable machine.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/BrassCraft-BC00400-Zip-It-174-Drain-Cleaning-Tool/43939195?athcpid=43939195&athpgid=athenaItemPage&athcgid=null&athznid=PWVUB&athieid=v0&athstid=CS020&athguid=466001f5-46cfa622-fbb04aca9a18a716&athena=true
There is NO SHUT OFF VALVE in my home. There is a leak somewhere, because the water bill has doubled. My home insurance will not help me (pay) until there is a shut-off valve installed. Why is there no shut-off, and why/how can I find the leak ... and them have the insurance do what it should do and pay for this fix?
No wet yard
concrete slab - they say there is a spaghetti junction directly from the main.
What can I do?
Bev, You have to install a main water valve first to test the line from the street to the house. I would also want a valve at the water heater so we can shut it off and see if the meter still spins when the hot water is off. I feel those are your first steps and insurance will usually pay for leak detection. The company may have to find the line as it enters the home and trace it into the structure to know where to find or install a valve for the first phase of work.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave. I posted back on Aug. 2 about a funky smell coming from my toilets. We were going to replace the toilets. Called in a local plumber and he suggested first replacing the wax seal. He found some seepage there, nothing was coming through the caulking, however. That was the cause of the smell. Replaced one of the toilets wax seal and no more smell. Calling him back to do the other toilet. We lived in 2 older homes before custom building this house 16 years ago. No one in our families ever had to replace a toilet or a wax seal, are they making them cheaper these days? Unreal!
Janette, The thing with wax seals is not that they are made any cheaper but the flange it sits on is at the right height and the floor is level.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave! I recently moved into a house that my father owns and had the utilities cut on in July. I know the house has galvanized pipes that need to be replaced and I plan on doing so. However in the mean time I received a notice before the first bill that the city's water meter reading was high and to expect a higher than normal bill. (The history shows that the water bill for this property is usually between $20-40). When I received the bill the water portion was a little over $1500. I had a plumber come out and he noticed no leaks under the house or any pooling of water in the yard where the main runs from the street. He recommended that I replace all pipes but can I get by with just locating the major leak (hopefully in the main) and holding off on replacing all plumbing? I also had the city shut off the water until I can get the problem fixed so do I need to have the water cut back on before a plumber comes out to locate and fix the problem? Thanks in advance.
Brian, Sorry for the late response I was in an accident. The leak may be on the service line outside but the plumber should have a valve inside he can shut off to test the service and that would be the starting point. I would say to leak can defiantly be found by means of leak detection and they can turn in on when testing. The thing with galvanized is its hard to work with and can cause more leaks down the line when worked on. I would defiantly re-pipe when you can fit in in your budget.
Thanks,
Dave
I am thinking about replacing all copper water lines , since I've had a couple of leaks recently. I keep getting 2 opinions about whether to replace lines that are in the wall. Some say definitely replace them others say the vertical don't hold water like horizonal ones so won't likely leak .
Janice, I'm not sure whether you are on city or well but private systems can have low PH levels that deteriorate piping faster and would have to be addressed with a neutralizer? I know if it was my house and the copper water distribution piping has had known pinhole leaks and thinned out over the years we would re-pipe the entire house for piece of mind. The water travels through the entire system so vertical or horizontal piping all has the same water quality running through it. I would say one significant water damage would pay for a re-pipe and certainly not fun to have to go through for any homeowner.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello I just had a new sink and faucet put in. When I open the faucet there is no leak, but when i wash my face or hands and water splashes around the faucet area, water starts to drip underneath the cabinets. What do you think is the problem? How can I fix it?
Nellie, I would have to see if water is splashing near the trim plate that is where the faucet mounts to the top. I have no idea what type of top you have but we use putty or silicone when sealing the faucet to the top to prevent water from dripping down in the cabinet. I would look under the cabinet on my back up to the faucet where it was mounted and see if it is dripping from that area while running first?
https://youtu.be/fivs6lYYd-U
I live in an older home and have a leak coming from hot water supply line under kitchen sink. There isn't a valve to shut off the hot water. I have to turn it off at the hot water heater. The pipe looks cooper to me. It seems to keep coming loose. I hand tighten it at the top where it connects to the faucet. Sometimes I just push it up and that stops the leak but only for a few days then it does the same and leaks again. It's a bad leak hot water spews out flooding the cabinet and floor before I get to the water heater to shut it off. I have to keep the hot water turned off when I leave home for fear of it flooding when I'm not there. Does them seem like something I can fix myself?
Hey Amanda, If the line is copper you should shut the water off and install a valve. I would need a picture to help you any further but water is not something you want to mess with if not confident enough. I do have a couple of videos attached for you..
https://youtu.be/yJ2iry0k5-s
https://youtu.be/HeEORnczD3s
I have a friend who had someone add a basement bathroom for her. When it was all done and she turns on the water for the basement bathroom all of her water upstairs stops working. What do u think her problem may be?
Linzi, I wonder if she has an old house and galvanized piping if so she may need to replace some piping? She may have a bad pressure regulator as well but those would be the two things we would check for starters. I would say anytime you are running something and pressure drops as you use another fixture at the same time the two things above are most common problems.
Thanks,
Dave
Just discovered a leaking pipe that leads into my house. It is dripping on the outside of our house at a rate of 8 ounces an hour. I do not know how long it has been leaking. Do you think it will be alright to leave it till tues. as no one will return my calls except answering service that says they can come over but will charge twice the service call ($320 per hour) for emergency call. All others are booked untill Tues.
Thanks,
Sue
Hey Sue, I'm sorry for the late reply my Dad had open heart surgery. The leak is very small and outside so your fine waiting!
Thanks,
Dave
Had a new air conditioner transformer installed 3 weeks ago but had to go into my walk in closet to get a shirt and shorts and felt drops of water dripping from the new trandformer which was replaced, it stopped after the water in washer stopped. What is leaking?
Appreciate Your help in advance.
Peter D
Peter, I'm not sure I totally understand what your saying? The washer machine should have nothing to do with the air conditioner unless the line is draining to the washer box. The only other thing is you may have a an automatic trap primer which drips when water is used to prime traps year round to prevent methane gas from entering the home through a trap.
Thanks,
Dave
Upstairs neighbor and I share pipe top to bottom. The neighbors put eggshells down the garbage deposal and clogged our pipes. Call plumber her used a long snake unclogged. But two days later I noticed a lot of water under my sink. My sink stainer was knocked loose and leaking. No problem b4... Matter of fact, my new kitchen and internal walls are just 1yr 6months old. Did the snaking knock it loose?
Ned, I could see pipes possibly leaking from back pressure just like a sewer main stoppage with a wax seal leaking after it backs up. I don't see it knocking loose a basket strainer that would be going the opposite way of downstream where the stoppage was located and a cable has to go to clear the line. I guess if they worked underneath your sink and hit something with their body while working on the line under the sink but not sure where they performed work from your unit or upstairs.
Thanks,
Dave
We discovered some small (1/4" diameter approx) plastic tubing protruding from our garage floor where the wall meets the floor. Clear liquid (presumably water) comes out of the tube from time to time (about enough to soak a paper towel in 2 days. But we have lived here a year now and did not notice it for the last 11 months. We just noticed it last month. Do you know why there would be this tube and where the *water* might be coming from? Thank you.
Julie, That's a tough one! I can't offer much to help with this one does your neighbors have anything like this? I wonder if it's just a dead end pipe and you have moisture wicking up from under the slab? If you can sleeve something down the pipe see how far it will travel?
Thanks,
Dave
I live in a duplex, well my neighbor called our landlord and said he has a leak and ot seems to be coming from my tub,they checked my tub it had hair in it i have a trap over tge drain in my tub but anyway my tub was draining well before they took the hair out and that still didnt fix the issue well now he calls the landlord again a day later and says his tub has nasty water backing up in it like water with food and grease they fix the issue tge plumber says the plumbing is old and needs to be fixed my landlord tell me whh am i dumping food and grease down my sink now my kitchen sink has the x on the drain where barely any food can get through and i dump my cooking oil outside it had to be from what was left from a pan but even then i let my water run hot for a long while but now my landlord is charging me for the plumbing on my neighbors unit and mine whuch i think is not right...can you give me your advise please on my issue!?
Jennifer, If water is backing up into a tub the main line was clogged if food or waste was present. If the neighbor was draining fine and only yours was clogged the stoppage was with your unit only and the cause could have been buildup, roots, or anything even corrosion from an old line like cast iron? I really don't know the circumstances but sewer coming up in a tub is usually a sign of the entire line being clogged if you were not using the tub and just walked in the bathroom and found it full. The leak is concerning and probably from the backup which could have been a bad wax seal under the toilet or some thing that connects to the tub drain area.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi there I have a cement slab with copper pipes for my plumbing whoever came up with this idea is stupid however I also have a circulating pump on my hot water heater so I can get instant hot water I have been told that that is a bad move to disconnect it because it will just make my copper pipes leaking again is this true should I not have a circulating pump with copper piping in a cement slab let me know please thank you
Hey Laura, I have installed recirculation loops underground for a long time. I see no reason to worry if Type L copper was used and insulated properly this saves water and who doesn't want hot water faster. I would be happy with a return system most builders never even give the option.
Thanks,
Dave
Have question about water pressure in tub.
Hi. I got rid of my old washer, but the hot water valve will not shut off the water, even though it's turned all the way off. I have to keep the main off at ALL times, or the water will come rushing out with such force that it will overflow a 5-gallon bucket in less than a minute (why doesn't my shower have such power??). Anyway, I'm planning on selling the house soon, so I'm not replacing the washer. Whoever buys the house will replace it.
So is there a way to solve this problem without a plumber, considering I don't need to replace the valve? I've heard you can just "cap it off." How would that work? Even if I need a plumber, would it save me substantially if I requested that instead of a valve replacement? I just need my water back ASAP. I can't even turn it on for a second, because it floods my utility room. Thanks for your help!
Lily, I would just get a cap preferably brass and not plastic. I have a link attached to show what it would look like.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Orbit-3-4-in-Threaded-Hose-Caps-2-Pack-27902/100659301
Hi Dave,
Four times in the past year, for several weeks at a time, the cold water intake filter on my washing machine clogs up with white, gelatinous goo. We have to keep cleaning the filter after every load for there to be any cold water coming into the machine. We have changed the hoses as well. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks!
Sally, I'm not sure of what your water source is but if a private well the below information may help. You may need some water filtering system to help with your issue but at least have your water tested. We use National Testing Laboratories.
https://watercheck.com/collections/well-water-tests
Iron Bacteria presents many problems, so an accurate determination of its presence is crucial to appropriate treatment. Iron Reducing Bacteria (IRB) cause aesthetic problems with the water such as taste, odor and staining of laundry and fixtures. The most common indication of iron bacteria in the water supply is a reddish-brown or yellowish gelatinous slime in water tanks, faucets, toilet tanks, and plumbing. These nuisance bacteria may cause corrosion to treatment equipment, clog screens and pipes, and have a foul odor. Here are a few of the common problems associated with Iron Reducing Bacteria: RED SLIMY DEPOSITS – Iron bacteria produce a sticky slime which is typically rusty in color, but may be yellow, brown, or grey. A “feathery,” or filamentous growth may also be seen, particularly in standing water such as a toilet tank.
Thanks so much for your reply, Dave. No, odor is not coming from anywhere else. Will take your advice and replace the toilets. And not pumice ever again.
Your Welcome!
I have well water that is treated with a Culligan softening system. I scrub my toilets weekly. Some years back, I pumiced the inside of my toilet bowls due to rings forming. Now, some years later, the toilet bowls smell. I used an immersion pump and pumped bleach throughout the underside of the bowl, thinking mold was growing inside the rim. I cleaned the tank with bleach. The smell is still there. Could the smell be from the porcelain worn away from the pumice stone, and bacteria is growing on the toilet bowl itself? At my wits end to find the source of the smell. Probably going to replace the two toilets. : (
Hey Janette, Are you getting a smell from anywhere else like the sinks? If not and its isolated to the toilets I'm in agreement to go ahead and replace them that was its all new and so is the wax seal underneath them.
I have a combi boiler on my caravan the overflow pipe points straight down under the decking. It's had a slow drip since Eastereading but since the hot weather its been constant. When we put the shower on its Runs quickly. Please advise before I go to the plumber on site and get a large bill. Thanks
Sarah, It may be leaking from thermal expansion or the relief valve just needs to be replaced and the spring is weak? I still think you should have a professional look at it when you talking about a boiler.
Thanks,
Dave
Hey so we just moved into our single wife and haven't gotten electricity yet seeing as where in the mountains, but our water got hooked up . The only problem is sometimes the water smells terrible and leaves things smelling terrible like feces. Other times it's completely fine , what should I do ?
Hey Becca, It sounds like you have a sulfur issue defiantly would recommend getting the water tested to know your water quality to address any needs. I have a link where you can purchase a testing kit and send back to the company for results. I would than consider having a professional tell you what you need to help with you smell or anything else pertaing to water quality.
https://watercheck.com/collections/well-water-tests
We have a delta bath faucet with a single control knob that has a separate temp control and pressure control both on the same knob. Now if we take the cartridge out of the control and turn the water on we get great water pressure and flow coming out of the faucet pipe to where it hits the back wall of the tub. But if we put the cartridge in we barely have any pressure and flow out of the faucet at all. We had fine pressure for years then just all of a sudden it got less and less only in our tub. So we replaced the cartridge and that didn’t do anything to change the pressure or flow. We get great pressure to the sinks in that same bathroom but just not to the tub with the cartridge in. Any ideas?
April, The cartridge you have is pressure balanced when you pull the cartridge and turn it on do you feel hot water as well as cold. The cartridge has to have equal pressure but you may also have some clogged ports and can set up an air compressor from the tub spout and shower riser to clear things possably. If you had pressure before it will more than likely be some dibris. I have attached a thread in regards to your issure that may be helpful.
Thanks,
Dave
https://www.plumbingzone.com/f7/delta-shower-valve-has-no-pressure-79849/
Hello Dave,
I am looking for a 'more flexible' kitchen sink sprayer. Current sprayer hose is very stiff, especially spraying cold water in the winter. I am afraid I am going to pull something loose. The only way I can get it to flex is to run hot water thru it to soften it up, then spray only tepid water, not cold. If I have to replace the entire faucet assembly, that is OK. Plastic hose or metal hose - whatever might work, I will try. Local hardware people look at me like I am crazy when I explain my problem to them. What do they use in North Dakota or Montana? Thank you so much 🙂
Hey Tommy, We are located in Charlotte NC so not sure what they use in North Dakota or Montana? I do feel like you can get a new faucet that would meet your needs. The hardware stores where we live have them on display so you can pay attention to the hose type. I like Moen faucets and they have a lifetime warranty!
https://www.moen.com/kitchen/faucets
Hello Dave.i have some push self stoppage tap,can u advise me how to adjust the water flow on the tap please ? At the moment plumbers left it at too fast speed so need to decrease the flow
Tera, If your talking about a pressure regulator I have a couple of You Tube videos attached. I would say most valves just need to be turned counter clockwise to decrease pressure.
https://youtu.be/owXqUzupKnE
https://youtu.be/JgxGqQrC6Ds
Thanks,
Dave
Help! Leak detection in drains...
How can you locate slow drain leak seeping under flooring, and probably inside the wall behind kitchen cabinets!
Can you locate without tearing the house up?
Then can it be replaced with a bypass to avoid inner wall drain work? (The vent pipe is basically inaccessible.)
Janeen, We have this happen quite often on cast-iron and galvanized arms the run from the vent into the sink. We find the waste arm rots out from sugar and grease mostly on the bottom of the arm. The way we fix this depends on the house structure. If you have a crawlspace or basement we just re-pipe the drain by drilling through the cabinet and installing a air admittance valve under the sink and disconnecting the old system by capping below. If your on a slab it's more difficult to access and repair but if the vent is on the dishwasher side we would pull the appliance and cut the drywall to try and provide repairs and sometimes back of cabinet.
Thanks,
Dave
I have just moved into a flat I have only got a hot tap plumbed in to fill my washing machine, but only have a cold water pipe, can I use this cold pipe to hot tap? If not how do I fit a cold water tape,? I live in a council property, they won't fund it so need some advice, I only ever used it on a cold water fill in my old house?
Michelle, Not sure I'm totally understanding your question may want to call me on this?
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
Wow, thank You for the very quick response! I am now on the phone to see what stores have this in my area. Again thank you so much for this service.
Hi sure hope y/can help! Problem: kitchen sink/DW not draining. Drain pipe in basement runs on side of beam (attached w/Straps) 65 feet to the back main drain line. We tried everything, bladder, snake, etc. Finally had to cut the pipe 1/2 way and took it outside and cleaned All the disgusting gump out. We are a going to now reattach pipe and readjust pitch w/straps to hopefully not have this problem. Question is there such a thing as spraying silicone spray in pipe so gump does not stick again? Also final question can I put ridex down pipe once a month? Thanks for any help. Have a great summer
Carolyn, We don't have anything you can spray in the pipe but would suggest pvc pipe versus cast iron when replacing the section. We would recommend Bio Clean or something similar used on a regular basis that eats waste and friendly on the system.
Thanks,
Dave
http://www.bio-clean.com/bioclean/
I have just had a daisy head shower fitted and only half of it has water coming out can you tell me why ?
Beth, I would pull the shower head back off and check the water saver. We pull them out when we have pressure or flow problems sometimes just depends on how it's performing and you can also turn the valve on without the head installed to see if adequate flow is at point of use.
Thanks,
Dave
Is it possible to install a propane water heater inline with my preexisting electric unit? Should I use a bypass, or is it okay to let the hot water run through it while not in use? Was slightly worried about dissolved solids. I have a 5 micron pre-filter.
Hey Thomas, I would defiantly install a bypass you don't want to run the gas heater and have water travel through something just storing and not heating. If you are just wanting a back up heater if the gas fails don't let water travel through it just valve it off and drain it for future use if needed but only if not full of sediment. I would not want an old heater just sitting and than turn it on later for fear of sediment getting into the fixtures.
Thanks,
Dave
Just installed new 1/2 hp jetpump/tank combo and new 30g hot water tank...no air, lots of water, better pressure, but pump doesn’t shut off until water is turned off!!
Hey Sherry, Have you installed a new pressure switch sounds like you have a new bladder installed with the jet pump?
My mom’s outside water valve hookup is leaking. It is hard pipe/black pipe set up with a “t” pipe set up. Can I use a brass gate valve type? I am in central New York where it gets quite cold in the winter. She has always used an insulated piece that fits over shutoff valve in winter
Al, A brass fitting or valve is fine to use and works well with dissimilar metals without causing electrolysis. I would defiantly insulate and possibly heat tape if exposed to environment.
Thanks,
Dave
I need to purchase a 2 inch twist down sediment filter. Do you sell these parts?
Hey Tony, We don't actually sell anything we are on the service side of things. I know that size is difficult to find but have attached some useful links that may help you.
https://www.sprinklerwarehouse.com/2-in-Sand-Separator-Filter-p/vfnt200so60p.htm
https://www.twistiiclean.com/
Thanks,
Dave
Thanks Dave, really appreciate your fast response. I was hoping it was a minor problem with a small price tag to repair but now I know. Just have to start looking for a reasonably priced leak detection company in Dunedin, Fl. 34698
Your Welcome!
Water heater makes running water noise when no faucets are on. Same noise in shower (only 1 of 2 showers has the noise) Shut off the water heater valve (top of heater) & breaker switch. Of course, no noise no hot water. My husband thinks maybe it's a broken pipe/leak coming from under the house. We had a broken pipe 10 yrs ago but we had hot water. (Major water bills made us aware of that problem.) What to do? Who to call? Please really need help. Thanks, Cindy
Hey Cindy, I agree with your husband it sounds like a leak on the hot water distribution system. If you have a water meter go see if its spinning when your not using anything and if it is spinning turn the hot water heater valve off go back to the meter and see if it stopped spinning. I would say if your hearing it while the hot water valve is on and don't when turning it off you have high probability of a hot waterline leak and would need a leak detection company to pinpoint so a repair can be made. We reroute lines sometimes versus chipping up the slab for repairs and remember you have already had a leak in the past so if achievable we would recommend re-piping affected line if at all possible.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello I just had my roof replaced and the guy said there is a crack in the water heater exauste flu pipe he said it's a double sleeve are these fairly easy to replace he didn't feel comfortable doing it.
Jamie,
The vent pipe can be changed from below in the attic most occasions just depends on your roof line. It’s not a complicated procedure but need the roofer present if steep pitched otherwise the plumber or heating man can handle it.
Dave,
We are planning to replace Gas water heater. This is a 40 gallons "State Select". The location of the tank is in the garage (Easy access). This tank is 13 years old and still functioning. We plan to use same hot water heater type perhaps the same capacity..
What we need from you is the cost to replace which includes installation and removal of old tank. Also draw a permit for city to inspect. This might not be norm in North Carolina insception but it is requirement in SC. I didn't see any free estimate in your website. That is why I gave you specifications of the job. Please let me know.
This is Located in Fort Mill SC
Kathy, I'm on vacation this week so don't have our pricing book. If you can call the office they can help with a price just make sure to give them the make and model and whether it vents through the roof or side of house. The office number is attached below and let them know you need permits and inspection being in SC location area. Any pictures would help as well..
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
Dave, within the past week we've replaced the American Standard diverter in our kitchen sink, but we're having problems.
After repairing the leakage from the base of the swing spout with new o-rings, the old diverter began to send only a very small amount of water through the side sprayer nozzle. The pressure through the swing spout was now very strong; even after cleaning it, the old diverter continued to malfunction. We found and replaced the old diverter with an identical, new American Standard diverter. NOW, we have almost no pressure through the swing spout, hot or cold taps, but plenty through the sprayer nozzle... WTF??!! Help!
Robert, I'm sorry for the late response the backside of my site was down for security updates and could not access to answer. It really sounds like the diverter that's the only thing that could prevent transfer. I know you have already replaced so pay attention the cartridge as well that no obstruction exist. If you have water to spray water is at faucet level so these are the areas of concentration needed. I would also make sure the aerator is clean at spout.
Thanks,
Dave
Can "not using" a water filtration system cause it to leak from the filter? I'm a renter and have not used the tap for the Culligan water system on the sink and the homeowner is trying to say its because we didn't use it that caused it to leak and cause water damage in the basement below the kitchen.
Hey James, I don't see this being your issue at all. The water lines should hold if installed properly and the drain connections as well even if an R.O System. You could also call the manufacture direct but that's like saying if you hade a guest bathroom and no one used the fixtures it would be your fault as well. I would personally fight it but would have to see what failed on it to give a certain diagnosis.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a slow drip coming from the tub in the guest bathroom. It was not high on my priorities to fix being that I recently purchased the house and have many other things to be repaired. Then I noticed that anytime another source of water in the house was being used, including simply flushing the toilet, a steady stream of water comes out of the tub faucet...which is in the off position. I'm not sure what the problem could be. I'm also concerned with the pool of water in the crawl space directly under that area! Help, I don't have a lot of money for repairs being I just spent my savings on purchasing the house. Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated! Thanks
Hey Tracey, I would take care of the valve cartridge on the drippy faucet which should solve everything except why you have a pool of water under the crawl which would need to be looked at by a professional. If someone is hired for the valve have them look into the crawlspace leak at the same time so they can price what needs to be done.
Thanks,
Dave
We recently had sewage backing up in our basement shower. We learned that the horizontal drainage pipe has "3 90's" causing multiple sites for soft clogs to happen. The plumber cleared the clog, but what is involved in replacing those 90's so as not to have this happen again?
Hey Andrea, Any change of direction is better to have a combination fitting with a cleanout. I like using two 45's with make up a 90 and can be made with a longer radius turn. If you have accessibility the plumber should be able to change but make sure the pitch in the pipe is right which should be an 1/8 per foot. The problem must be on your main line heading to the city if the sewage was coming up in the lowest fixture in the basement. The fittings if under concrete would require cutting the basement floor or if outside excavating and hopefully proper fall can be achieved.
Thanks,
Dave
I hear water dripping forty minutes after i turn off my shower... what does it indicate? thx
Hey Chuck, I would start by replacing my shower valve cartridge but also make sure the head doesn't have a bunch of sediment in it slowing down the drain down when turned off?
Thanks,
Dave
we had a leak in the outside water faucet on the side of the house , in order to shut off the water the company replacing the broken pipe had to locate the shut off valve which had been covered over when we had finished the basement , they cut into the wall and eventually found it but befire that they already found the main shutoff in the utility room . the problem is that they did fix the problem , however when they turned back on from the main shutoff the water returned to every area in the house except we had no water in the master bedroom bathroom toilet water worked in the sinks , tub , and shower i called them back to report it . that was at 8am this morning and its 2 pm and still no pressure or water to the toilet , can you give meany suggestions about what to do the plumber says it may be the fixture thats inside the toilet that clogged HElP
Hey George, I would first check the individual fixture in this case the toilet. The water supply tube could be disconnected from the tank and tested from the angle stop to bucket or Tupperware to see if water is even getting through the supply line and to the fixture. You could also have a clogged angle stop so sometimes we have to make sure that's not the case and requires the house to be shut off and the packing nut removed on the valve? I feel like it should be isolated to the toilet by your statement above but who knows how it was plumbed if all the piping is in a wall or ceiling. The easiest thing is starting at the fixture first.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi the little white plastic thing behind the shower handle (price Pfister) is stripped. My handle fell off and I cant even use pliers to turn on shower. How can I replace that lil white piece?
Victoria, I have a link attached below not really sure what Price Pfister handle you have without a picture but maybe one of these videos will work. If they don't can you send a picture to my email below?
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=price+phister+shower+handle+replacement
Thanks,
Dave
dparker@erplumbing.com
I have a Roman Tub in the master bath upstairs it has a 2 handle faucett and a spout
when both hot and cold handles have equal water pressure but the hot water side does not get hot only lukewarm after running for 10 minutes or longer. The shower which is right next to the tub has hot water as well as the 2 sinks. there is only one water heater to feed the whole hous. This stated afew months ago and the house is about 8 years old
Any help would be greatly appreciated
Bob
Hey Bob, If you only run hot water by itself does it ever get hot at all? If it doesn't it may be a piping issue. I would also check and see if anything is crossed in the house. The way to check is shut the hot water valve off at the water heater and go to the faucets. The fixtures should have no flow from hot side if still flowing from tub or any other fixture something is crossed in the house. You will have some drain down when performing the test but will subside and nothing should flow for any hot side faucet. The faucet may need a cartridge replacement or the handle checked to make sure its performing properly as well. The good thing is if it worked before its probably something to do with faucet itself unless you haave done some sort of renavation and plumbing was done?
Thanks,
Dave
I have a 4", schedule 35 lateral sewer line, connecting to the public main sewer.
NO septic field. Just one 4' pipe.
It is buried about 20" deep.
Can I safely place an above ground swimming pool over this lateral line.
The pool is 27' x 15' x 52"
Gary, That's pretty shallow so worries me a bit can you offset the sewer line so its not underneath the structure? I would not feel comfortable with the weight of all that water with that shallow depth for fear the line would settle and belly?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, Looking for some guidance in troubleshooting a cold water faucet problem. In two of our sinks: one upstairs kitchen (with a one handle faucet) and one downstairs bathroom sink (two handle faucet) there is no cold water. In every other faucet, bathroom sink and outdoor shower there is both hot and cold water.
Wondering if it’s just coincidental or a shared problem. Where should we look first? (Have replaced valve on one handle kitchen sink) Thank you!
Alicia, I don't know how old the house is but could be galvanized piping really depends when it was built? The line sounds as if its shares a branch to those particular fixtures are you able to see the piping and trace the line maybe in the crawlspace or basement. If your on a slab and everything is finished have these particular fixtures always had a problem or did this just start. I would turn the water main off and check the angle stops before connecting to the faucets and maybe point the supply tube in a bucket to see what the pressure is like before it reaches the faucet. If you have galvanized piping you may need to do some re-piping or if you have hard water and some fittings are clogged not sure if your on city or well but sediment could be an issue. It defiantly seems like you should hire a professional.
Thanks,
Dave
Thank you for your reply. You answered my question perfectly. The fact the Plumber didn't make sure the main stack was clear before pressurizing it is the caused the water exited by way of my drain pipe. The clog had gotten pushed right below where my drain pipes hook up to the main. Each unit has it's own pipes like legs off of a spider. After the incident is when I observed the Plumber in the hallway at an access hatch to the main stack snaking it to remove the clog.
Your Welcome! It makes since that he had to snake the main stack to clear which again means it's shared at some point and not your fault but an HOA issue in most cases. We perform a ton of management work and that's how most would look at this issue. You just happen to be the in a lower unit where everything ends up draining from the floors above.
Hello, I own a condo on the 2nd flr of a 6 story high rise building. A unit on the 5th floor directly above mine was having a plumber trying to unclog the kitchen sink. Apparently he snaked the clog out of the unit's pipe into the waste main stack as far down as his snake would reach which was right below where my sink hook up is in the waste stack. My sink pipe was shut off and capped because I had removed my kitchen sink and counter to have a new one installed. All of a sudden I heard this loud rumbling inside the wall as if it was a volcano getting ready to explode which it did shooting water out at high force through my plumbing pipe. I freaked out and went running through the building on the floors above mine and found the Plumber running the faucet at full blast in the Unit. I asked him to shut the faucet off because he was flooding my unit. What did the Plumber do wrong and was he negligent and responsible for the damage that was caused in my unit? His insurance carrier said I have to prove he was the originator of the damage in order to cover the claim. I do have neighbors as Witnesses of the water bursting into my unit but that doesn’t make them an expert at proving it was caused by the Plumber working in the Unit above mine. What would be the proper wording with their written explanation supporting my claim and me proving the Plumber was at fault causing damage to my unit? Thanks, Flooded Unit Owner.
Merry, It sounds like the sink line was shared meaning a common line not an individual line. If the plumber was snaking the unit to unclog whether it was him or any other plumber we would have done probably the same thing ran a cable down the stack to clear. I think when it cleared it surged down the pipe and of course it had head height which creates the pressure. I feel your cap on the waste line must have blown off but you would have been able to tell that by looking under the sink after all this occurred. I'm not sure I'm stating all this right but if that cap was on properly it would have just came up to sink level and possibly avoided damages? I know you say you went upstairs and he was running water but all sinks should handle the flow and he would have had no idea something was going on below in all fairness in regards to a renovation or improperly glued or threaded drain arm that connects the sink. He probably just showed up to clear a simple sink stoppage never knowing you had a renovation going on below or whether the drain was capped properly as he only was concentrating on the task at hand. I would say if no one else below was having a stoppage or slow drain once that units stoppage cleared the shear force of it freeing and possibly being air locked caused quite a bit of water to flow all at once. I would tackle this a HOA issue meaning go the route of it being a common line and causing damage in your lower unit as it's shared. Yes, you were in the midst of a renovation but even without it being capped properly if that's the case things would not have happened if the line was in good shape below you. I always think of it like an artery after years of use and grease buildup can only handle so much volume at once and the building probably needs to treat the stacks with friendly bacteria enzymes that helps restore pipe diameter. The lower the unit the more chance of having an issue on a shared line as everything above drains to this area. I hope this brings some clarity and really don't feel the plumber did anything different than someone else would have? I say this was a building issue and the line is shared meaning the cost should be shared you were not doing anything in your unit at the time nor did anything break you were just the unit that sustained the water damage. So the shared pipe below your sink level was not handling a high volume of flow very well..
Thanks,
Dave
I have a Whirlpool water heater in the attic 40g. There is no cut off valve to the heater only incoming to the home. Tried to drain but only some water came out. The spigot is plastic and you have to use a screw driver to open it up. I tried using a hanger to move some sediment around but to no avail. My guess is to cut off the water to the house and drain all the water out however long it takes and then replace the drain valve?
My house was made so that no one could do DIYs. I'm making progress though. Thnx and have a great day.
Hey Ben, Be carful with the plastic drain valve especially in the attic. I sometimes have to pump the water from the top of the heater to be safe if your not comfortable call a professional on this one as you do not want any water damage from a bad or clogged valve drain. I will say when trying to drain make sure the home water is off because you don't have a heater valve and open the relief valve as flushing the unit so it's not getting air locked and that's why it's not draining well?
Thanks,
Dave
Have an important question please. My gas boiler knobs are in the correct open position. However, there are times when i see a small flood on the basement floor. This happens when the water in the sight glass goes all the way up. I do not understand why the water goes all the way up and then overflows. I thought if that happens, then the excess water would come out of the relief valve where my bucket is to catch any excess water. Thank you in advance for your assistance with my issue.
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
4:56 PM
Dave, We aren't in the Boiler repair business our license cover installs only you need an HVAC contractor with proper credentials to answer or work on your system. I would not want to tell you something that's wrong but sounds as if it's over heating or expanding in some manner. I would call someone on the mechanical side of things in your area and ask for someone who knows boilers.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave! I am wondering if my tub/shower valve can be converted to a shower only valve. I.e. eliminate the diverter so I can tile the wall and not have an unused diverter valve sticking out. Any input you may have will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your anticipated response!
Randy, When changing a valve from Tub to Shower the height is usually something changed and access needed through back of wall preferably but through tile wall works as well if replacing anyway? It sounds like you may have three handles because some diverters are built into the tub spout itself to transfer. I would suggest sending a picture but feel pretty sure you will need to replace the valve rough body in the wall and raise the height of valve to accommodate the proper height for shower only. If you were able to plug the diverter it would have to be deep enough in the wall to tile over once plugged and the threads of the valve would be hard to find a plug for they are usually fine and not iron pipe size. I hope this helps?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, I have a 40 gallon gas hot water heater that needs to be replaced. It is located in the garage on a metal box. It is a direct vent unit. Can you give me an all-in estimate of what it might cost to replace.
Het Shirley, I'm out of the office a few weeks had a back surgery. I would figure the $2,200 range supplied and installed with expansion tank but feel free to firm up the price by calling the office number below.
Thanks,
Dave
704-846-5371
We have a tankless hot water heater. The hot water is coming out yellow (not the cold). We have been traveling and have had the water turned off and back on over the last year (away for a month, return, etc.). We do not smell anything, just yellow that will not go away. Any ideas?
Thanks Dave!
Marri, It sounds like you need the Tankless unit flushed that would be a good starting point if the hot water is the only issue.
http://www.noritz.com/blog/how-to-descale-a-noritz-tankless-water-heater/
Thanks,
Dave
I have 2 vessel sinks with no overflow s they both have one touch popups the problem is very slow draining The u tube movies recommend the popup drains to solve the problem but I still have slow drainage can you recommend a solution?
Francis, The Vessel sinks are nice but can cause flow issues depending how they are casted. You don't want to loose the nice look of a vessel with a pop up and again that's not a for sure fix they have to handle the flow the steeper the drop the harder to maintain drainage. I would recommend lowering the house pressure or getting a lower flow faucet..
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave
I have hot water in tub & shower but not always in kit or bath sink unless I run hot water in tub. Hot water heater is almost years old (10 year warranty)with no leaks or rusty water.
Dianne, I would install the Grundfos Comfort System it seems like a speed issue. The tub has a greater amount of flow so in essence your speeding things up by running the spout. I have a link attached that would help with this issue.
https://us.grundfos.com/products/find-product/comfort-pumps-up-10/_jcr_content/tabbedpanel/brochures/download_list/downloads/download/file/file.res/HWR-trifold-GPLUPSL023.pdf
Thanks,
Dave
Hello Dave I plugged my new hot water heater drain pan into my shop sink which they sit side-by-side with a downspout dishwasher hook up before the sink trap and I keep getting soap bubbles back up into my drain pan when I wash my hands in the shop sink what can I do without putting a check valve in there I don't think that will work
Hey Terry, The water heater drain pan connection should be one-inch in size and never reduced or directly connected with a dishwasher tailpiece it would never handle the load. If your worried about the water heater leaking and can't get the drain pan line to an outside termination point think about draining it into a condensate pump and having it pumped up to the sink if it ever leaked. You can also purchase a water cop alarm system that will automatically shut the heater down if it senses a leak.
http://www.watercop.com/
Thanks,
Dave
Hello,
I was looking at the water heater in a 50-year old home we purchased. The wh is about 8 years old and works well. It is in the basement laundry room. But, there seems to be excessive lines looping together and coming together before entering the cold side.
A line drops from the ceiling 18", makes a short 90 (1st), then 90 again into a straight vertical drop of 36", It then has a short 90 run before going upward to the level of the 1st ceiling drop 90. Here, the line tees. One line goes back into the ceiling. The upward line continues from the tee to a point 10" above the level of the two side-by-side cold line 90s, then angles over and down to the cold connect on the wh. So, what the heck is all that about and do we have to live with it? Or, can it be redone in a less complicated configuration so we can reclaim some more wall space in the laundry room?
Hey Jim, Any way you could share a picture it sure sounds like a mess that could stand to be cleaned up. You can email me at dparker@erplumbing.com with the specifics your looking at.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello, I had a frost free water spicket installed, last year worked fine. It had to be installed upside down bc of the limited space below.
This year I go to turn it on and nothing! No water, no leaks From the the pipe so it dont think it froze. There is no shut off valve so it’s not that!
Could it be a bad facet? Or bc it was installed upside down ?
Please HELP....
Hey Lisa, A frost free hydrant has to be installed properly to drain when shut off otherwise the water is stuck in the pipe and can surely freeze. We install them with a little pitch going downhill out of the faucet to release the water. If you are trying to turn it on and can't it may have split but you would not know it till it was turned on. If your able to turn the handle and no water flows the plunger or stem attached to it could be having an issue from winter damage. I would seek a professional out on this so no damage occurs. The water to the house needs to be shut down and the parts removed to inspect visually.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi
I have a grundfos water pump and pressure tank and it just started spraying onto my basement floor. PSI is at 52. I turned it off and it stopped. What's your advice?
I looked at the control indicators and "Max Speed" is amber
Is this what you have?
https://us.grundfos.com/products/find-product/mq.html
Scott, Is the pump what's spraying or the pressure tank? I would see if you have a means bypass until you get it repaired which would have had to been plumbed in a manner to allow? You will have lower pressure until its fixed but should get water if a bypass was installed.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, I own a condo on the top floor (2nd floor) of the building and a copper pipe that supplies water to a sink in the bathroom apparently was having a leak issue but the leak was not occurring anywhere within the confines of my condo unit. The pipe encountered a leak under my subfloor but in the ceiling of the unit below mine. The same thing happened about 9 years ago and it was discovered that the leak back then was the responsibility of the Home Owners Association because the leak was not occurring in my unit and the part of the pipe that was leaking was not in the downstairs unit either. The same thing has happened again and I opened a claim with my insurance since the owner of the downstairs condo did not seem remotely interested in filing a claim with her insurance even though I have NO damage whatsoever and my insurance contacted the owner and told her she needed to contact the HOA. Well, this past Saturday the owner of the downstairs unit had a plumber come out and they completely cut the copper supply line and capped it and now I have no water running to the sink in my bathroom at all. How is it possible that the owner of the downstairs unit has the authority to cut a water supply pipe and cap it instead of fixing the pipe. I have no access at all to the part of the pipe where the leak supposedly was and now that the pipe has been cut, there is no way of even seeing what that part of the pipe looked like. I own my condo unit and I was simply told the plumber would be out to shut off water in order to do repair work. Nobody once said the pipe was being cut and permanently capped. How can someone else authorize a pipe like that to be cut?
Michelle, I here your frustration and totally understand. The pipes that serve your unit must be in the below unit ceiling running horizontally and coming up vertical to serve the sink area. He would have had to shut the entire building off to accomplish this task if you never gave him access to your main water shut off valve. The only way you will be able to repair is coordination and approval with the unit below to run a new line to the sink. The HOA may have given permission if you weren't home or didn't provide repairs in a specific amount of time because they would have needed approval to shut everyone down or homeowners would have been mad without notification unless it was a blowout. I really don't know all the circumstances but have seen HOA's get involved if they could not get a hold of someone and damages were occurring for the sake of units below. I have even seen doors opened from locksmiths to stop damage from water heater and frozen pipes if owner or tenant could not be reached.
Thanks,
Dave
Hello Dave, my hot water heater only runs cold water, even from the hot water side. I have checked my breaker system and all are on. I have a small sized electrical system. Do you think that it's time to purchase a new system. Any ideas of what the problem could be?
Hey Sharon, It sounds like the elements may be burned out and in need of replacement? I would also say if the water heater is 12-years old or greater go ahead and replace it. The thermostat may be tripped as well and may need to be reset which is located inside the top panel.
Thanks,
Dave
We have a leak behind the wall of the tub when the faucet is turned on and it drips down stairs. I Cut a hole from down stairs to see where the leak is coming from but can't seem to tell where the leek is coming from due to boards in the way. I do know the pipes are above the boards. There is a closet behind the plumbing of the tub/shower. Should I cut a hole behind there or do you have an idea what could be leaking. Thanks.
Keith
Keith, I would not cut any more and concentrate at the fixture itself meaning the valve and trim areas. I would check the tub spout when transferred to shower and make sure water is not spraying backwards. I would check the gooseneck on the shower head to make sure its sealed good as well where it its sealed in the wall and also make sure your overflow plate and washer behind it is tight if tub is ever filled to that level. A good test it to run tub only and see if it leaks if it doesn't try the shower next. It may just be something that can be repaired from the bathroom itself.
Thanks,
Dave
Is it true that dishwashers, jetted tubs, (seals?) and pressure balance cartridges need weekly or monthly use for maitaining part longevity, or do they wear out with more frequent use?
Hey Janet, Great question! I personally feel lack of use for a period of time will cause dry rot without greasing seals like cartridges but frequent use also has wear and tear. I would say Chlorine in the city water also has an affect with washer and seal failure along with the environment conditions. Tough question and could go either way
Thanks,
Dave
Thank you David for you immediate response! We've enjoyed answers you give! God bless your business!
Hi Dave we have no hot water in the bath kitchen sink or washbasin lost both cold and hot in bath Wed but came back Fri we have cold in all places
Katie, It sound as if the only thing you don't have is hot water at this point? I would want to check and see if water still comes out the hot water side but is just cold when running and if that's the case start at the water heater. If no water comes out of the hot side of any fixtures you would want to check the cold water side at the heater at the valve entering, and the outgoing side of the heater to see if you have flow. If your not under any kind of renovation and no one has turned any valves on and off it makes me wonder if the well or city water is the issue while being repaired and created another problem with debris or something. I would call a professional on this one if you don't seem to be getting anywhere and also see if any neighbors have had any issues.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a sink in the bathroom that omits a nasty smell. I use baking soda, vinegar and lastly bleach down the overflow opening. This smells comes in this time of year only. Please give me a pleasant smell solution.
Cheryl, First, make sure you have a proper P-trap installed under the sink. This trap holds water and provides a seal against sewer gases getting up into the bathroom. Without a P-trap, gases will leak in constantly, and will be displaced by water down the drain which can force the gases up into the bathroom even if normally it's not detectable. One more thing it could be is the overflow drain. Depending on the design of sink, the overflow can hold a small amount of water at the bottom where it T's in to the main drain, which can become stagnant. Run water down the drain and you'll force some air up the overflow (to make way for the water coming down), which will have that stagnant smell.
To diagnose this, plug the sink and begin filling it; you shouldn't get any musty smell at first because there's no air movement. Once the water level hits the overflow drain, you will start smelling the musty smell for a while because the water is displacing the gas, which wants to rise above the water and so will move up into the bathroom. If this is the problem, you can ameliorate it with some foaming pipe snake; pour it down the overflow drain and it will clean out any caked-on gunk which contributes to the smell, and which may be trapping the water. The real fix is to make sure there's no "damming" effect of construction defects at the bottom of the overflow drain (a lip of porcelain, issues where the overflow meets the metal drain downpipe, etc).
Does it smell when you turn on the tap and catch the water in a bowl (so it doesn't go down the drain)?
If so, it's something in the faucet. Take off the aerator cap and look for gunk inside. If this doesn't work, it's something in the basin, drain, trap, venting, or overflow drain. I also recommend the following: Take out the drain stopper and look down the drain pipe for gunk. Clean it out with a snake or unraveled coat hanger if you can. I would also see if the sink is vented by means of an auto vent versus fresh air to outdoors they can fail mechanically and are usually installed under the sink and easily replaced if that's what was installed for you bathroom venting.
Thanks,
Dave
Thank you Dave. I am a customer for life.
Hi Dave this is Jackie Duick . I have been facing high water bills and of course the water co. is not at fault, yea right, I am using so they say 11,968 gallons of water in the last month. My yard guy does my yard every week and has not seen any indication of water problems when he mows.
]My water meter is as old as the house that was built in 1959 maybe that`s the problem. I realize prices go up but our first water bills were $18 to $25 now my bill is $73.89. There is no leak inside I have checked up and down stairs. Faucets outside do not leak or drip.
I wash clothes every 2 weeks and do not cook because it`s only me. I drink bottled water. My bill last month was $59.76, also I have 2 septic systems and were taken care of in 2011 after my husband passed away. Any suggestions Dave to keep me from attacking the water co (only jest).
Thank you Dave for your time.
Jackie
Hey Jackie, How is my favorite customer! We need to make a visit to the house and see what's happening may just be toilet related. You can put some food coloring in the toilet tank and see if it finds it's way to the bowl without flushing which would you have something leaking in the tank. We could also clock the meter and see if it's running with nothing in use. I would just give the office a call next week and let's see what the cause is if anything?
Blessings,
Dave
Hello Dave,
I had a brand new water heater installed on February 19th by E.R. Plumbing and a few days later turned on my A/C. That is when I noticed the condensation pipe leading from the A/C is touching the new water heater. I have a photo. I placed my hand on the water heater and there is a slight vibration in the water heater when the AC is running and I am concerned -- will this affect the new water heater in a negative way? I contacted E.R. Plumbing and was told a technician will come back to make an adjustment on the pipe. Will this adjustment be on the water heater pipe or the condensation line? Thank you.
Hey Michelle, I looked at the pictures and it looks like its just touching the relief line of the water heater. It would not have any affect on the water heater but could cause a vibration noise and that would be a nuisance. We will offset the relief line or bump the heater over some which is and easy fix but your fine and the office has you reached out to you for sometime this week I'm told. It's a tight space but we can make it better so you don't have to worry, but it's not hurting anything to answer your question and we will take good care of your concern..
Thanks,
Dave
Dave, thank you for this information and it does seem the A/C is running a bit louder than usual. I made the appointment to have it adjusted this week and I appreciate your concern and the quick response. Thanks!
Dave I installed the 2 3/8 brass comp coup to the beaded kit faucet supply lines
Perfect! You can do that so sounds like you did a great job. I know the braided supply lines don't always reach the angle stop but can fit right on the compression coupling and you can extend with copper like you did on the other side.
To whom it may concern.i installed 2 3/8 brass compression coups on my kit faucet water lines I used 3/8 copper tubing to stops. Can the coup come apart under pressure thank you
Hey Peter, We use brass compression couplings all the time when needing to extend the lines on supply tubes. As long as you installed copper to copper your fine! If you went copper to plastic you would need a different feurrel to tighten things up.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, we had a leaky bathtub spout so we replaced it, some time later we installed a New shower head and then the spout started to leak again so we replaced the faucet again that was about 2 months ago now the spout started to leak again
Dawne, It sounds like you have a bathtub control valve issue with stems if two handle or cartridge if single handle. I would start by replacing or repairing the valve or valves first. If the spout or head is dripping constantly and not shutting off all the way.
Thanks,
Dave
Where is the valve located
The valve is where you turn it on and behind the handle. It requires water to be shut off before removing and replacing. I have attached a couple of videos not sure what you have but it will give you a good idea..
https://youtu.be/gOu2c2GvXR4
https://youtu.be/pjKZiY5QjQg
Near the top of the water softener tank, it is hissing 24/7. I believe it was quiet before. It does make a louder noise around midnight when it is circulating. Is it supposed to be quiet?
Jana, I would make sure the discharge tubing is not kinked or obstructed. I would see if you can see the end of the drain line and if water is constatly draining? If it is draining all the time the control valve is not holding tight and need to be addressed..
https://youtu.be/M1gO4DLuE6o
Thanks,
Dave
Hot water everywhere but shower it has a 2 handle faucet hot and cold
Raymond, Sounds like you may have to replace that cartridge but could also have galvanized piping and need to address the line itself? I would say its really hard to tell without being onsite but that would be two-things it could be. I would look at the type of piping you have first if you have a basement or crawlspace before addressing the cartridge.
Thanks,
Dave
I am getting ready to purchase a home and in one of the showers the sellers had installed a hand held shower head and the hose comes from within the wall. Since they did this the existing fixed shower head no longer functions. How do I fix it so that both shower heads will work?
Carolyn, If you have a fixed shower head and one hand held wand and they both come out of the wall separately you should have a transfer valve that turns one or the other on separately so you have the proper volume to handle both at once. It would require a mixing valve and transfer valve but if you just have one valve it wasn't set up normally. You may have to install a valve on one of the two more than likely the hand held as it want be used as much? If you stop one from flowing the other should work but really depends on how they piped things. If you capped one does the other work? If it does just add the valve you may have to copy and paste to your browser.
Thanks,
Dave
https://www.amazon.com/K1140B3-Shower-Shut-Off-Handle-Polished/dp/B00VCL5DRG/ref=pd_sim_60_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00VCL5DRG&pd_rd_r=SJZKQ6Q0M4F9D9S4RRK0&pd_rd_w=2ilGa&pd_rd_wg=2qdbJ&psc=1&refRID=SJZKQ6Q0M4F9D9S4RRK0
My friends mom lives a older mobile home they were telling me that they had no water in the kitchen which is at one end of the house straight back is the bathroom almost to the other end when looking under I found the water leak I noticed that it had galvanized pipe in it that was the first time I've seen that in a mobile home my question is is that one long piece of pipe all the way back to the bathroom or is there connectors in between so many feet
Hey Joe, That's a tough question without looking underneath? I would try and trace the line if you can see it but sometimes it's hidden with insulation around it under a mobile home. If the house doesn't have anything else going that direction it could be just a branch but pay attention to where hose connections and fridge connections are located. The galvanized is defiantly and will continue to be an issue especially with age.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a well my house is above ground I lost water 3 days ago after a freeze been Sunny for days I have water everywhere but my kitchen please help!!
Jackie, If you lost water to the whole house and know only the kitchen is down is it on an exterior wall and is the temps still cold where you live? If you have water everywhere else make sure the kitchen door is left open and maybe use a heat lamp. If you touch the pipes coming out of the wall are they cold? You may have some other underling issue if freezing isn't the cause and it could be faucet related if both hot and cold aren't working. you could turn the valves off underneath the sink and disconnect the supply lines from the faucet and point them in a bucket to turn on and see if you have flow up to the faucet itself.
Thanks,
Dave
I have a well my house is above ground I lost water 3 days ago after a freeze been Sunny for days I have water everywhere but my kitchen please help!!
Hi DAve, I bought a house with a well about 3 years ago. When i bought the house it had propane and i have since replaced that with natural gas and replaced the water heater. I noticed when i bought it that there was a 3 gal electric water heater in the basement below the kitchen, never really thought much of it. Well now i am finishing the basement and the 3 gallon water heater is a nuisance so i removed it and capped the lines. It was fed from the main hot water line and went through the water heater and Tee'd back into the hot water main. When i capped it i lost all hot water pressure in the kitchen and bathroom(furthest points from main water heater). Why is this? Can i do something without re-installing the small water heater? I am scratching my head over this. Please help
Jaime, I would say further testing is required. It sounds as if the kitchen sink area and bathroom were always an issue even before house purchase. The issue could have just been at some point length of time it was taking to get hot at furthest fixtures form large heater. I would want to cut the hot line and install something like a hose connection to check the pressure before it ever went into the small water tank? The issue could be sediment no telling how previous owner took care of sediment. We see well water lines and fittings completely clogged with sediment so tracing back to a fixture that is working properly if you have basement access is the first thing worth checking and re-piping from that point to kitchen and possible bathroom or vise versa. I'm not sure how the distribution lines run but if overhead and to kitchen first than bathroom try and get pressure to kitchen first if that is achieved the bathroom will be resolved as well possibly? If piping is galvanized that is another issue but sounds like hiring a professional to trace down where the pressure drops would be the first thing we would check. The more pressure achieved the faster the hot water will get to point of use..
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I have been in my house for over 36 years with a well. I have never had a problem except a cracked pipe at the last pipe connecting to the well pump. Had that pipe & the pump replaced and everything has been fine. In the last couple months I have noticed when showering that the water flow decreases significantly and after 20 to 30 seconds return to full flow. A few days ago after flushing the toilet the water that filled up the bowl was yellow with initially no other yellow water. A half day later the water coming out of the kitchen sink was also yellow. Two days later the weater is all clear again. Should I be concerned that I may have signs the well getting low on water supply?
Thanks,
Chuck
Chuck, I'm not sure but sounds like the pressure switch is acting up and maybe the expansion tank needs to be checked. I would think you have a sediment filter on the system as it leaves the reservoir tank? It sounds like its depleting the reservoir or getting close to it before it contacts and fills the tank again. The water at the bottom of the expansion tank gets pretty bad remember its not filtered. I would have a professional look at it you could also have a leak on the riser pipe?
Thanks,
Dave
hi Dave
my name is cary silver and I have a question about a problem i am having in my one bathroom lower level of house in a grade entry split level home.
The hot faucet is running hot water but very slowly the cold water faucet is ok. what can I do to troubleshoot problem. all other faucets throughout house are all running fine. Thanks for your input.
Cary, I'm not sure where you live but if this happened during all the cold weather its probably frozen. The hot will actually freeze faster than cold and maybe that specific area is near an exterior wall. I think running it would help it eventually get to speed thawing but don't leave the house with it on. The only other thong it could be is cartridge related, galvanized piping, or the angle stop and supply line having debris in it? I would think frozen if in a cold area and just on the hot side so keep letting it run.
Thanks,
Dave
Hey Dave I have a quick question, I live in a mobile home & for some reason our master bathroom shower has always had low cold water pressure. It has a 3 knob faucet in the tub/shower. I already took the hot/cold diverter out and checked it and it’s fine. I took the stem out of the cold water side and it was a very low flow compared to the hot side. There are no leaks under or in the mobile home. It looks like galvanized pipe that was used. What else can I do to remedy the problem I’m kind of tired of taking super hot showers and scalding my buttcheeks ever time I shower . Thanks in advance .
Daisy, It sounds as if the galvanized piping would be the issue if that is indeed the pipe you have? I would replace the pipe to the shower diverter you will never get water restored if galvanized is the issue. I like the test you did so you just need to bring a new line up to the cold side of the valve to remedy and may want to include the hot while your at it if a wall has to be open for access? I would have to think both are galvanized and will fail at some point and would not want to open the wall twice. You could install and access panel for future use if you did just do the cold or wanted to change the entire valve at some point?
Thanks,
Dave
Dear Dave, first Thank You for your GO TO website. I have searched everywhere for answers!
My husband took apart our antique porcelain shower head that goes with our clawfoot tub. He cleaned it
& replaced it bright & shiney. Now it has no pressure at all and just runs out the bottom of the head! HELP please! How does he get pressure back into the shower head so it will spray again. Thank you!
Kelsey, I would remove the head and just hold the hose in the tub without the porcelain shower head installed. If you have water coming out of the hose he has done something to the head maybe check and make sure that the washer that sits between the head and hose is installed? If its spraying where the screws together something is blocking the head creating backflow pressure or the washer was never installed that seals the connection and that's why it sprays everywhere?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi,
Googled my question and saw your site, like what I've read so I have a question.
My water in the entire house stopped flowing 13 days ago. Yes, in Upstate NY we've had single digits and below for several days - but we've live here since 2009 (-50 the day we moved in, and no one had been here running water for months) and have NEVER had any freezing issues.
Called plumber and he tried to than pipes inside (none frozen). He went out to look at well and we noticed the lid was not fully on and there was frost in the well, so I'm immediately thinking that well pipe is frozen.
Does he try to thaw it? NO! He sends his guy to get a new cellar pump to try, then when that's not the issue suggests we could jettison the line but that it WILL refreeze and so we should put in a submersible pump in the well (for $2000) and excavate the yard to lay new pipe deeper down. I think our pipes are already 3-5 feet down - AND - they run under the garage and driveway I'm guessing - as this house was built in 1820 and the straight line between both goes under much newer garage and paved driveway.
Am I correct in thinking that probably if we jetted the line (either with another plumber's help or youTube video) closed the well tight, put a box with insulation in it over the cover, and let water drip when it's going to be sub zero temps - that we should be ok, as we've never had an issue before?
He is stoning me, he is obsessed with the fact that the line WILL freeze again and we basically need to spend thousands of dollars to alleviate this issue.
Thoughts? I'm ready to do something myself....
Veronika, I don't see how a line could be jetted unless it's sewer and were talking about a well system. Have you thought about a larger Hot Box either built or bought with a heat lamp and maybe some heat tape and thicker insulation? I don't see doing anything so extreme without protecting first to the best of your ability. I'm sure others in the neighborhood have the same setup so look at theirs as well and see how yours measures up when it comes to frost protection.
Thanks,
Dave
Thanks, I appreciate the feedback! I'll start by asking my neighbor, who's been here at least 40 years... and hoping to have a "well guy" take a look this week.
V-
Hi,
Googled my question and saw your site, like what I've read so I have a question.
My water in the entire house stopped flowing 13 days ago. Yes, in Upstate NY we've had single digits and below for several days - but we've live here since 2009 (-50 the day we moved in, and no one had been here running water for months) and have NEVER had any freezing issues.
Called plumber and he tried to than pipes inside (none frozen). He went out to look at well and we noticed the lid was not fully on and there was frost in the well, so I'm immediately thinking that well pipe is frozen.
Does he try to thaw it? NO! He sends his guy to get a new cellar pump to try, then when that's not the issue suggests we could jettison the line but that it WILL refreeze and so we should put in a submersible pump in the well (for $2000) and excavate the yard to lay new pipe deeper down. I think our pipes are already 3-5 feet down - AND - they run under the garage and driveway I'm guessing - as this house was built in 1820 and the straight line between both goes under much newer garage and paved driveway.
Am I correct in thinking that probably if we jetted the line (either with another plumber's help or youTube video) closed the well tight, put a box with insulation in it over the cover, and let water drip when it's going to be sub zero temps - that we should be ok, as we've never had an issue before?
He is stoning me, he is obsessed with the fact that the line WILL freeze again and we basically need to spend thousands of dollars to alleviate this issue.
Thoughts?
Hi Dave. I can understand charging a dispatch fee for emergency repair, but I was surprised to find out you charge a $69 fee to come out for a scheduled consultation for a whole new water heater system. This would be a job worth several thousand dollars. The other company I called (I want two quotes) does not charge for that. So this is really just more of a comment: if you are able to schedule a job a few days out for the chance to install a fairly complex water heater system, I think your chances are greater of getting that business if you don't charge for that, since most companies, regardless of industry, don't charge people for providing quotes. The reason is that if your quote is wildly out of line, or your tech is unable to offer a good solution, your potential customer just wasted $69 and is left with a bad taste in his/her mouth. Thanks.
Hey Brent, I really appreciate your reaching out and personal take on the service fee. We have a ton of internet companies now advertising like Home Advisor, and Google Home Services that get multiple quotes which is great and understood for the homeowner but we as a company pay for that lead. We cannot however justify running around doing competitive quotes with such magnitude for free or see treating anyone any differently as our costs start as we answer phones, pull permits, and dispatch guys while fueling up the truck and some days run an hour away. We have charged dispatch fees for years and if it was a major issue we would have to adjust to the market or wouldn't be in business. We however have a high closing ratio because we charge a fair price and our reviews across multiple platforms speak for themselves. If any of our clients were upset with me or my quotes in any way, or we were way off another contractors price comparable to our size we would always gladly give back that fee no question asked. All we want to do is create Raving Fans, provide remarkable service, serve our community, and personally lead from the heart. I know what others charge around the area for certain tasks because it's my 20th year in business in the Charlotte region. We have a high closing ratio because were almost never as high, and even if we were my team adds the extra perception of value because we are true pros and plumbing is all we do. The clients end up saving way more than a dispatch fee we have seen the quotes and hear the stories. My techs and staff are well trained and taken care of that's why we have no turnover and the proper techs out serving you. We actually have some techs that have been around 19-years basically since inception. We serviced over 8,000 clients last year just imagine if a big portion of that was for free? How would we profit and how would the guys have good health insurance, pay, and benefits to keep them around. The client who balks at the $69 service fee misses the value we bring to the table and basically end up paying more because they felt the fee was unjust and never get the chance to experience our value or find out what the price would have been. I see it as a cost of doing business with a reputable company that always takes care of his team, clients, and community. "We do truly Care" and your opinion has been noted and is respected.
Blessings,
Dave
My toilet tank has a bowl that tilts with the handle to flush. Can I convert it to regular parts
Roxanne, Can you send me a picture of the handle and inside of the tank to my email below? I can help better by seeing what you have.
dparker@erplumbing.com
Frozen pipes? Maybe?
We came home after being gone for a week (it’s been very cold) and all our water is working EXCEPT the second of two shower heads on our master bath.
Hot and cold work everywhere else in the house, including the sink and other shower head in the master.
But the second shower head (farthest from everything closest to cold) only gets about half the volume of hot water and no cold water at all.
I shit off the cold to th bathroom and am letting the hot run but nothing is really changing.
No idea where the pipes run between the two— but no water leaking in the house and had good water pressure everywhere else in the bathroom.
So... now what?
And the shower heads have one handle — all the way on is hot barely on gives you some cold.
Hey Grey, The pipes defiantly froze and the valve must be on an exterior wall or your on a crawlspace and an air vent is close to the pipes serving that particular head. I'm not sure where your located but hopefully the temps start rising back up this week. I would think maybe putting a space heater in the shower area on extreme nights would keep the walls warmer because what you now know is that side of the wall gets colder for some reason which could be how it was insulated during construction? The pipes are supposed to be installed on the interior side of the wall with insulation placed behind the wall.
Thanks,
Dave
HI, a few weeks ago my kitchen sink backed up with my upstairs neighbor's dishwater. When she ran her dishwasher, my sinks overflowed. The landlord called a plumber who rooted out my sink, there was no clog.
Then the plumber said the problem was outside and the pipes leading to the sewer needed to be repaired because they were not draining into the sewer. They came back, dug up outside and fixed the pipes, I assume?
Last night, I heard a gurgling sound again from my kitchen drain, While there is no backup or flood in my kitchen sink, if I peered into the drain with a flashlight, I could see water below, and steam rose from the drain as if from a hot dishwasher cycle.
I"m afraid they didn't really fix the problem and I'm going to flood again. Thank you any help is appreciated.
Kate, Any gurgling is of concern! I don't feel like the outdoors would have been where the issue would have been because that should be the main line heading to the city lines. The internal branches run under the slab, crawlspace, or basement in most buildings and the sewer main runs outside. I would be cautious for sure if the problem was outside and feel the bathroom toilets and showers would show signs first because they are the lowest fixture rims when working on something outside. Think about it if the sewer main was stopped up outside what is the closest rim to the floor in the house its never the kitchen sink that's an area much taller than a walk in shower, tub, or toilet rim. I'm not saying another issue wasn't present but don't feel good about what your telling me. I feel the kitchen stack and horizontal line underneath would be where the issue was and they snaked it in your statement but feel they may need to do it again. I would have them back out if any more gurgling is going on for fear of running over and having a shared stack. The shared stack means the neighbors above could run their sink and dishwasher and it could come up in yours if the stoppage is underneath your unit somewhere and clogged? I don't naturally know everything and why they did whatever outside but would just watch out for gurgling that is out of the norm!!
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave,
I am having issues with my gas hot water boiler. I crank the thermostat all the way to 80, but it only warms up to about 65. I checked the water temperature, and it marked 185 degrees. Then I assumed that was the reason and opened up the small box near the boiler and moved it to 220 degrees. However, it does not go up.
The pipes near the boiler are extremely hot, and the baseboard units in the rooms are hot as well. The circulator pump appears to be good. The zone valves are brand new. I have noticed that the flames come out of the little compartment where the pilot is. Do you think it might be sooted up and that could be the reason the water is not warming up past 185 degrees?
Fernando, I would want to make sure no crossovers are happening by testing. We see check valves fail or not get installed properly all the time which can cause mixing and inability to get to temps. I would hire an HVAC man capable of working on boilers license wise to help you get to the bottom of the issue and provide maintenance as well if soot is noted or it hasn't been maintained.
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave.
Will hot water redirect into the cold water supply if pipes are frozen?
Had a freeze and using portable heaters to heat up wall. This trick has worked in the past. Today, tried same thing. Only our cold water is coming out VERY hot. Lines have not been swapped and no work has been performed on HW tank.
Any advice appreciated. Thanks.
Brandon, Hope you had a great Christmas! It could cross over in the cartridge that is a possibility but not very common. It sounds like you are doing the right thing with the room heaters. I would say if that particular sink always freezes up more of a stream be left running on cold nights versus a drip and of course keeping the cabinet doors open. I would say when water is restored shut the hot water heater valve off only and see if all hot water side of faucets shut down properly to test for any crossed lines nothing should come out after drained down? The other thing would be if you had a Grundfos Comfort system for faster hot water the bypass under the sinks are meant to cross over?
Thanks,
Dave
Question: I live in a condo and one of the residents in unit 205 hears water gurgling in her sink when the resident in unit 305 uses her washing machine. The resident in 305 does not hear anything. Who's responsibility is it to find the cause? What could the problem be?
Hey Regina, Anytime your hearing gurgling its not a good thing and should be checked out by a professional. I sounds like you share the same stack and would be interesting to know what's going on in unit 105 below as everything travels downhill. I would see if the HOA would handle the issue because its a common shared line. I would snake from the unit 305 in this case before damage occurs below in one of the units and again check the lowest unit and see what they are saying as well.
Thanks,
Dave
Dave: I had a leak in my shower when the Delta diverter spun around instead of being in the tub or shower setting. I also have hot/cold turnoffs. I paid a plumber over $400 and he said the head of the diverter in the wall was worn and he had a hard time connecting to the handle. He said he should cut thru the wall to do it right but did not have the time. He somehow got it to work. A month later I have water in my family room below. Get a new plumber or call the one I used? Do I have to have the wall cut open? We just had the bathroom and bedroom on the other wall painted.
Glenn, If I'm understanding you right you have three handles and the one in the middle is the diverter transferring from tub to shower. I would think you could order new cartridges and handles if needed without going into the wall. I would need to see a picture to help further but we do at times have to replace valves from behind the wall. I would read the companies reviews when choosing whom you hire but in his defense it sounds like he was upfront telling you it really needs to be replaced and from what your saying above he wasn't very confident in his repair? I don't like the fact that he didn't have the time nor confidence in repair and now you have damage. A second opinion never hurts or asking if the company you used would be willing to discount the new valve with the damage that occurred from his last repair.
Thanks,
Dave
I have residents that have no cold water flow in shower only.the tub is seperate it has cold.I removed the pfister shower valve thinking it was the problem but there is no cold water to manifold .its a very short distance from tank to shower,new property no buildup.i have even blown nitrogen thru lines but did not work.it is an electric water heater with expansion tank. Do you have a suggestion?
Sherry, It sounds like the loop from the manifold is not connected? I hate to say this but if absolutely no water is coming out of the cold side shower only and never has you may need to cut the wall and trace the line with an electrical fish tape. The fish tape will lead you to the area it was supposed to be connected to and you may have to open that wall to tie it in? If the tub is close and accessible maybe you can connect at that point. I like to find the closest area where hot water is located and just re-route or trace where the current line is ran to identify the issue. The water need to be off while pushing a fish tape through it just in case it breaks something free?
Thanks,
Dave
actually it hasnt always been this way,everything worked fine till a week ago. i see no sign of water intrusion anywhere down below or elswherre
Sherry, I would clock the meter to see if it's spinning when not in use to verify nothing underground is leaking? I would turn the water off to the house first and pull the cartridge to the problem shower. I would turn the water to the water heater off and have someone in the bathroom watching. I would turn the house water back on without the cartridge installed keeping the valve on the hot water heater off and see if any water comes out of the valve body. If the individual says water is coming out something is going on with the cartridge if water was present before?
Thanks,
Dave
Hi Dave, my hot water circulator seems to be erratic. The box is running, the clock is right. Some sinks get instant hot but not always.
Could the variable be we drained the hot water heater incorrectly a few days prior?
Hey Linds, I have attached the installation manual for the grundfos comfort system if that's what you have? The Watts system would operate the same way but not sure what brand you have or if you have a real return line? If you have the bypass type please refer to page 4 of the manual attached and test. The draining of the heater could have caused an issue if the pump was running and no water was in the line? If you have a real return line with an aqua stat or timer system a check valve may be bad.
https://us.grundfos.com/content/dam/GPU/Literature/COMFORT/LUPTL043-1005-ComfortSystem-I%26O.pdf
Thanks,
Dave
I live in a group of 3 units and whenever any of the 3 units uses the cold water or flushes the toilet there is a loud ongoing groaning noise in my bedroom wall/ceiling. The usual plumber is not sure where to look since all 3 units are making the same noise.
Hey Jess, It sounds like the building pressure regulator or some of the toilet flush valves are acting up? I would start with the water main if all three units are making the noise and see if they have the regulator. I would say if it wasn't doing it before it should be something that can be figured out.
Thanks,
Dave
Why are the kitchen and downstairs bathroom faucets not running nor are toilets flushing but downstairs bathtubs and showers as well as upstairs bathroom sink and tubs running fine??
Sarah, Not sure the age of the house but sounds like you could have a water distribution problem. Is it the hot or cold side or is it on both? Do you live in a cold climate where freezing cold be an issue.
Direct water supply and every 5 mins for a few seconds i can hear it running nothing is switched on in the house
Viv, I almost sounds as if a toilet is re-filling and the flapper that connects to the chain is leaking? I would check each toilet you can use food coloring and put some in the inside of the tank to see if it shows up in the bowl. If it does the flapper needs to be replaced your loosing water.
I have a hot & cold fill washing machine which is great. However, my hot water tank burst & I have been left with just cold water. Can I still use my washing machine as normal?
Hey Heather! Absolutely, Just run it on cold cycles until your heater is fixed and your fine..
A plumber replaced the diverter in the shower. Ever since, after a shower I hear water gurgling in the pipe in the wall. I loosened the connector that holds the shower head to the pipe and water came rushing out of the faucet. Every time the shower is used, I loosen the connector to let the water out. Forgot to lo