Active Plumbing & Electric Posts
How To: Figure out why your water pipes are noisy and fix them
Plumbing is best left to plumbers. The results of DIY plumbing are almost always disastrous. However, with the help of this video, you can do a little self-plumbing by diagnosing the cause of your noisy pipes. The video also explains, in general terms, how to fix each type of noisy pipe.
News: Would You Climb the Empire State Building for a Paycheck?
Back in 2000, photographer Vincent Laforet scaled the Empire State building, a 1250 foot journey that would make me wet my pants.
How To: Fix a leaky toilet with basic steps
Is there toilet water all over the floor and you have no idea why? It could be a leak toilet, which is pretty common if you have faulty supply lines, or the wax rings have worn out. But don't worry, you don't need to call a plumber to ease your woes, in this video you will learn how to fix your leaky toilet with a few household tools and some extra knowledge!
How To: Replace and install a kitchen faucet with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to replace and install a kitchen faucet with Lowe's. Start out and check to see how many pipes you have underneath your faucet. After this, purchase your new faucet and all of the parts that go along with it. Once you have all of these, turn off your water and remove your old faucet. You will need to use screwdrivers and wrenches to remove the handles and the rest of the faucet parts. Once you have this done, insert in your new faucet and all of the appropriate ...
How To: Replace and install a toilet with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to replace and install a toilet with Lowe's. To get started, you will first need to turn off the water to your home, then take measurements around the toilet. Next, remove the top of the tank, then flush the toilet and remove excess water. After this, remove the water from the bowl using a sponge or towel. When finished, disconnected the water supply line and drain the water into a bucket. Now, leave the tank connected to the bowl and remove the bowl caps. Loose...
How To: Install exterior motion-sensor lights with Lowe's
In this tutorial by Lowe's, we learn how to install exterior motion-sensor lights with Lowe's. First, you will need to pick out what kind of motion sensor light you want. Most of the kits you purchase will come equipped with all the things you need, you will just need to supply the hardware. You will need: a screwdriver, circuit tester, electrical tape, silicone caulk, work gloves, and safety glasses. Open up the package and find the directions inside of it. After this, turn off the electrici...
How To: Install LED lighting under kitchen cabinets
Want to illuminate your kitchen into perfection? Perfection doesn't cost a ton of money, and doesn't require a skilled electrician for installation. If you have a yearning for LED lighting in your kitchen, this video will show you the easy process of installing it on and under cabinets, controlled by only one switch. You'l need a LED power supply, stick LED, tape LED, and some other lights. This video is specifically for Hera lighting, but if you're using other LED lights, the process could w...
How To: Replace or upgrade your home's kitchen faucet with tips from Lowe's
The kitchen is probably one of the most-used rooms in your house, and the faucet can take a lot of abuse. Maybe it's worn out and drippy, or maybe you just want to upgrade your look. Replacing your kitchen faucet is a job you can do, and Lowe's is going to show you how.
How To: Fix a slow-filling (or no-filling) toilet tank with tips from Lowe's
Lowe's talks about a common toilet problem in this video tutorial about a slow-filling toilet. Most toilet tanks should refill within a three-minute timespan, depending upon the water pressure in your area. If it's taking longer than that, or if it isn't refilling at all, remedy the problem with these simple steps.
How To: Fix a weak-flushing toilet with flapper problems with tips from Lowe's
Normally, when you press the lever on your toilet in your bathroom, you expect it to flush, but sometimes your toilet just won't flush completely, or you have to hold the lever down to get it to work. Lowe's tells you that the problem might be the flapper, and they show you how to fix it.
How To: Determine if your toilet tank's flapper is faulty with tips from Lowe's
This video is about your magical bathroom device— the toilet. The toilet is a thing that sees a lot of use in the house, and problems can arise from time to time. One of the biggest bathroom issues is a toilet that runs on after flushing, or starts running or flushing by itself. It's a possessed porcelain poltergeist. Lowe's knows that's this problem can really run up your water bill, and they have some advice to stop that leaky toilet.
How To: Measure the amps of an electrical circuit with a multi-meter
Measuring the amperage, or number of amps, in an electrical circuit requires a tool called a multi-meter. They are somewhat difficult to use, but fortunately for you this video explains in great detail how multi-meters work and what you need to do to ensure that they work. The creator tests the amperage of a power drill batter as an example.
How To: Cut and glue PVC pipes for sump pump system installations
This video from Basement Watchdog will help you with cutting and gluing the PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) pipes for their sump pump systems (backup or primary or combo), but this video also applies to all applications where PVC conduit is needed. Learn how to saw a pipe in a straight line, prime pipes, attach pipes to connectors and more.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump system
Having a backup sump pump is integral in making sure your basement is always protected from water, and if you have the Basement Watchdog battery backup sump pump system, this video will show you the complete installation procedure. Find out how to build a pipe connection to the discharge pipe, install check valves, connect to the backup system and more.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog AC-powered sump pump system
A sump pump is a necessity for most homeowners with basements, and if you've just gotten yourself a Basement Watchdog AC sump pump, this video will show you how to install it. This is a full sump pump, AC-powered, that you can install in your basement, either as a first time sump pump or a replacement sump pump. Find out how to remove the old sump pump, prevent air locks, insert the AC pump and connect it to the discharge pipe correctly.
How To: Install a Basement Watchdog combo (primary and backup power) sump pump system
If you want to make sure your sump pump is always working properly, a backup battery would be a good idea. But Basement Watchdog actually makes a combination sump pump power system that controls you primary (AC) power and has a backup battery (DC) for emergencies. This video shows you how to install the complete combo sump pump system to make sure the flooding never starts. Find out how to assess the sump pit, install the combo system, connect the sump pump to the standby battery and more. Ke...
How To: Fill a Basement Watchdog sump pump backup battery with initial fluid
For some homeowners, having a backup battery for their sump pump is important for making sure a loss of power doesn't cause a flood in the basement. And if you have yourself a standard new Basement Watchdog sump pump battery backup, before you can use it, you have to fill it up with the right amount of fluid. These batteries do not come with the fluid already inside, because it lessens the life of the battery. This video will show you the precautions and methods you should take in filling eac...
How To: Change a shower head and install a hand shower system
If you've been thinking about replacing your old shower head with a new model, or maybe even adding a hand shower, you'll be glad to know it's a pretty simple process. To replace the shower head, you don't even have to shut off the water supply. You just twist off the old one, replace the thread tape and twist on the new one. The hand shower system is a little more complicated, but Lowe's and Delta show you how.
How To: Install a new Delta single handle bathroom faucet and pop-up
Once you've removed your old faucet, it's time to install the new one. Many single handle faucets allow you to install them as either a single-hole mount or as a three-hole mount using an escutcheon plate, which fits into the two outside holes. This video from Lowe's and Delta shows you how to install the faucet with the three-hole mount. You'll need a channel lock pliers, adjustable wrench, thread seal tape, silicone caulk and a wrench.
How To: Install a new single handle Delta kitchen faucet with Diamond Seal Technology
These days, faucets are incredibly easy to install (removing old faucets is the hard part). And if you have a Delta brand single handle kitchen faucet with DIAMOND seal technology, this video will show you the steps to installing it. This is also very similar to other brands of single-handle faucets. This video from Lowe's and Delta will help you with your installation. You'll need a screwdriver, adjustable wrench and allen wrench.
How To: Completely remove an old bathroom or kitchen faucet and pop-up
The hardest thing about putting in a new bathroom or kitchen faucet is getting the old one out. For the most part that's true, only because today's faucets are so easy to install! Before you remove that old faucet, make sure you clean out the bottom area to prevent any unnecessary water damage. You'll need a paint tray, adjustable wrench, channel lock pliers, penetrating oil, putty knife, damp cloth and some old towels. This video from Lowe's is by Delta.
How To: Clean and replace an aerator on a faucet or filer screen on a shower head
The aerator on your faucet serves a very important function: by adding air bubbles, it helps to fuse the water and give it a softer feel. It also helps reduce the amount of water you use. So if you're faucet's water stream is acting funny (like a drop in pressure), it might be time to either clean or replace your aerator. If you're having trouble with your shower head, too, a little vinegar might do the trick.
How To: Flush the lines on a Delta kitchen faucet to stop unwanted noises
One of the main causes of noise in a kitchen faucet (when turned on or off) is from obstructed lines. And the only way to stop the noise is by flushing them. Lowe's brings you this video from Delta on just that: flushing your Delta kitchen faucet to silence the noise. You'll need a cloth, towel, 1/8" allen wrench, adjustable wrench, bucket or mixing bowl, white vinegar, channel lock pliers, screwdriver and an extra set of hands.
How To: Flush the lines on a Delta bathroom faucet to stop unwanted noises
If you're faucet is making noise, it might be time to repair it. Does it make the noise when you turn it on and off? The answer could be as simple as flushing the lines. Lowe's provides this video on flushing the lines of your Delta bathroom faucet to silence the noise. You'll need a cloth, towel, 1/8" allen wrench, adjustable wrench, bucket or mixing bowl, white vinegar and an extra set of hands.
How To: Repair a leaky Delta faucet by replacing the seats and springs
Lowe's brings you this video about how to fix your leaky faucet. More specifically, how to fix your Delta bathroom faucet. A leaking and dripping faucet could be a sign for bad seats and springs, so watch and learn how to replace them. You'll need an 1/8" allen wrench, needlenose pliers, channel locks, screwdriver, and replacement parts.
How To: Install a power shower in your bathroom
If you want to bring a spa like atmosphere to your bathroom, the shower is the best place to start. There are so many ways that you can do this and one way is by installing a power shower in your bathroom. There are many different kinds that you can choose, depending on your style and what you can fit.
How To: Replace a programmable thermostat with Lowe's
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to replace and install a programmable thermostat. The materials required for this project are: a screwdriver, masking tape, marking pencil and batteries. Begin by turning off the power of the furnace. Then remove the face of the old thermostat and detach the labeled wires. Now remove the wall plate. Then mount the plate of the new unit and connect the wires to the corresponding codes. Finish by inserting batteries, placing the face plate on the wall p...
How To: Connect flexi-tails properly
In this video, we learn how to connect flexi-tails properly. First, take your flexi-tails and grab one with a female end that will screw onto the end of a male. After this, use an isolating valve to fit the compression onto the valves and then tighten it up. Screw the flexible tail onto the end of this. Be careful buying this off Ebay, because a lot of fittings will not screw onto a compression knot. It is very simple to make this, you just have to connect the two tails and make sure they are...
How To: Replace the toilet tank fill valve
If you have a damaged toilet tank fill valve, you'll need to replace it as soon as possible. It's an important part to your toilet that makes sure your toilet is working properly.
How To: Reseal a shower stall using silicone
Cracks in your shower, if left untreated, can wreak untold water damage. Fortunately, this video tutorial presents an easy-to-follow guide to resealing a shower stall using silicone. For detailed, step-by-step instructions, and to get started repairing your own shower, watch this handy home DIY video tutorial.
How To: Punch down a 12 port patch panel
In this video, we learn how to punch down a 12 port patch panel. Start off by grabbing your cable and using scissors to cut off the outer covering of the cable. Next, use the wire scissors to cut off the end of the wires (about 1-2 inches). After this, place the stripped down wires into the appropriate spots that correspond to the colors that are on the 12 port patch panel. After you finished this, you will need to grab your punch down tool. Use this tool to push down on the wires, then it wi...
How To: Punch down a 24 port patch panel
Jim teaches us how to punch down a 24 port patch panel in this tutorial. You will need: cable scissors, a punch down tool, and 24 port patch panel. Now, strip the cable by cutting it and stripping down the wires. Now, attach the wires to the port punch panel by following the pattern of where the different colors are at. When you have these connected, use the punching tool to punch the wires down, then it will cut off the excess wire from the panel. When this is all done, you will want to tie ...
How To: Unclog a sink in the bathroom or kitchen
In this Home & Garden video tutorial you will learn how to unclog a sink in the bathroom or kitchen. It's extremely simple. Put a bowl under the U joint. Unscrew the plunger rod located under the sink and pull it out. Then remove the sink blocker and remove any dirt from inside the pipe. Now unscrew the PVC U joint at both ends and remove it. This can be done with your hands. Most of the time this part is clogged. Clean it up. Then clean up the pipe coming down from the sink. Look from top an...
How To: Fix a leaky faucet in the kitchen
In this video, we learn how to fix a leaky faucet in the kitchen. This is for a faucet that is leaking around the handle. You will want to start off by figuring out what type of faucet you have, and get the proper parts and repair tools for it. Next, you will need to turn off the water that goes into your faucet, and then remove the hardware from the top. Once you get to the inside of the faucet head, put the replacement part in and then turn your water back on. Now, test your faucet to see i...
How To: Replace an outdoor electrical plug and cover
If you're interested in replacing your existing outdoor outlet and cover because of cosmetic reasons or safety reasons, this tutorial should help.
How To: Install an outdoor GFCI plug outlet
If you're interested in installing an outlet in your backyard or front, this tutorial should help. In the video, you'll see the step-by-step process of what is needed in order to install something that can come in handy when working outside on the lawn or garden. It's easy to follow and should only be attempted by those who know a little about working with electricity. Good luck and be careful!
How To: Replace breakers in an electrical panel
If for any reason you need to replace or add a circuit breaker to your electrical panel, you'll need to know how to do so. Luckily for you, this tutorial is here to help.
How To: Properly install a ceiling fan
A great way to save on money and energy during the hot summer months, is by installing a ceiling fan. Not only can this be a great alternative to using an A/C, but it's easy to install and can sometimes help the overall look of a room.
How To: Change a light switch in your room
Warning! When dealing with electrical wires, makes sure you always turn off the power before you do anything. There is no room for error since you can become severely injured in the process.
How To: Check and see if your have clogged gutters
Having clogged gutters outside your home is no fun. Not only can it be a pain to clean, but it can also be something that leads extensive damage and possibly the replacement of certain parts. In this tutorial, you'll find out how to check and see if you even have clogged gutters. It's easy to follow and will save you a pretty penny. So good luck, be careful, and enjoy!