Do Septic Tank Treatments Really Work? Septic tank treatments do not have scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in improving the performance of healthy septic tanks, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Septic tank additives lack regulation, standardized testing, and formal certification in the United States. Inorganic compounds can corrode concrete tanks,…
How Often Should Well Water Be Tested? Well water should be tested on a regular basis to ensure its safety and quality. The frequency of testing can vary depending on the specific parameters being tested. For microbiological contaminants like total coliform bacteria and fecal coliform/E.coli, it is recommended to test well water at least once…
How to Fix a Dishwasher? To fix a dishwasher, start by removing the control panel to repair the timer, door latch, or switches. If water leaks through the door, replace the faulty gasket and ensure it fits tightly with no cracks or bulges. Adjust the door latch if leaks persist. If the dishwasher doesn’t start,…
How Long Do Kitchen Faucets Last? Kitchen faucets typically last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. The lifespan of a kitchen faucet can be influenced by its quality, maintenance, and design. High-quality faucets with metal components tend to last longer, while poor-quality faucets with plastic components may only last a few years. The complexity of…
How to Install a Frost Free Hydrant? To install a frost-free hydrant, start by selecting a suitable location that is convenient and protected from vehicles. Ideally, place it next to a south-facing wall for maximum sunlight exposure and away from large stock in pastures or corrals. Next, locate an existing water line to tap into…
How to Turn off Water to House for Vacation? To turn off the water to your house before going on vacation, locate the main water supply valve, which is typically inside the house or where the pipe connects to the water meter. Turning off the main valve prevents leaks and potential floods while you’re away….
How to Fix Towel Rack Coming Out of Wall? To fix a towel rack that is coming out of the wall, first, loosen the setscrew that fastens the post to the mounting plate. Remove the post, bar, and the mounting plate from the wall, and take out the old anchors. Use a drill with a…
Can I Wash Clothes During a Boil Water Advisory? Yes, you can wash clothes during a boil water advisory. The advisory typically only applies to water that is being consumed, so tap water can still be used for activities such as bathing, showering, and washing clothes. However, precautions should be taken to prevent accidental ingestion…
How Fast Does Well Water Replenish? On average, well water replenishes at a rate of 5 gallons per minute. However, the refill time can vary depending on several factors such as soil quality, rainfall rate, and well condition. Signs that indicate the well water supply is running low include longer running time for the submersible…
Does My Dishwasher Need an Air Gap? Yes, your dishwasher needs an air gap. An air gap is the most effective method to protect a dishwasher from flooding with wastewater and prevent contaminated water from re-entering the dishwasher via backflow. Plumbing codes often mandate dishwashers to drain via an air gap fitting. Without an air…
How to Clean Dishwasher Spray Arm? To clean a dishwasher spray arm, start by unplugging the dishwasher and removing the dishracks. Locate and remove the screw-on cap or bolts holding the spray arm in place. If the spray arm cannot be removed, proceed to step 6. Soak the spray arm in a mixture of hot…
How to Install Battery Backup Sump Pump? To install a battery backup sump pump, start by unplugging and removing the old sump pump from the sump pit. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of a check valve and tighten it onto the side of the new 110-volt sump pump. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads…
Does the Dump Take Mattresses? Yes, the dump does take mattresses. However, it is important to note that not all landfills will accept mattresses, and there may be certain fees associated with their disposal. Alternatively, mattresses can be recycled, and there are often free services available for their removal and recycling. Additionally, many donation centers…
How to Dispose of Paint Thinner? To dispose of paint thinner, start by straining, sealing, and saving any used paint thinner for reuse in a glass container. Pour the clear solvent into the container and let any paint settle to the bottom. This can be used for cleaning applicators in future projects. Next, if the…
How to Replace a Hose Bib? To replace a hose bib, start by turning off the water supply and climbing a ladder to access the hose bib’s entry point. Use mini pipe cutters to cut the pipe and remove the old hose bib and pipe. Attach a new hose bib to one end of a…