Hot Plumbing & Electric How-Tos
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: Use a voltage multimeter to check for faulty circuit breakers
Checking your circuit breaker is so easy, a cave man could do it! (I smell a lawsuit) With this easy to follow video, you'll learn how to check the voltage with a multimeter to determine if there is a problem regarding your circuit breaker.
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: 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: Wire a three-way electrical switch
In this tutorial, we learn how to wire a three-way electrical switch. First, you will need to know the difference between the wires that you are using. Once you familiarize yourself with these different wires, you can start to wire your electrical switch. Now, go to your electrical box and tie the white wires together with an electrical nut. Next, tie the copper wires together and you will be left with three wires. Take the wire that supplies the power and attach it to the black common, then ...
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: 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!
How To: Properly caulk like a pro
Caulking can seem like a tough job that requires a lot of patience and skill. In fact, it only requires a couple of tools: caulk, some tape, and a wet rag. In this tutorial from the DIY network, you'll find out how to caulk like a pro using those tools listed. It's an easy task that will have your kitchen or bath looking brand new. Good luck and enjoy!
How To: Insulate pipes in your home for the winter months
If you live in an area where it gets really cold during winter, you may or may not know the importance of protecting your pipes. Not covering them with proper insulation can result in frozen pipes that are a pain to fix and can cost you a lot of money. So in this tutorial, you'll be finding out how to properly insulate your pipes for the winter months. Good luck and enjoy!
How To: Sweat pipes for an air-tight connection
In this video tutorial, viewers will learn how to sweat pipes. The materials required for sauntering the sweat pipes are: M-APP gas, gauge, solder, solder paste, pipe cutter, brillow and copper pipes. Begin by cutting the copper pipe to a desired size. Then brush some plumber flux onto the copper pipe and hold it in place with a clamp. Now use the M-APP gas to move the flame around the pipe to allow it to suck in the solder. This video will benefit those viewers who are interested in plumbing...
How To: Replace a bathroom faucet with Lowe's
In this tutorial, we learn how to replace a bathroom faucet. Tools you will need are: faucet, adjustable wrenches, bucket, towel, safety sponges, pliers, and plumber's putty. First, turn off the water supply and turn off the faucet to remove any excess water. Next, use a wrench to remove the nuts that are holding the faucet in place. Next, apply putty onto the pre-cut sink holes and insert your new sink. On the other side, secure the new faucet and nuts with a wrench. Now you can turn on your...
How To: Easily save water by changing the faucet aerator
If you're looking for a quick and simple way to conserve water in your home, this next tutorial is one of the easiest and simplest ways. Changing the faucet aerator can take just only a few minutes and can save you money on your water bill. This tutorial will show you a quick look into how this works and what it can do for you and your home. So good luck and enjoy!
How To: Safely lockout electrical disconnects during repairs
This video aimed at electricians, is designed to help employers and employees what is required in the standard that is applied for the control of energy during maintenance and servicing of equipment and machinery. Employers are required by law to develop proper lockout safety procedures and provide proper protection materials and safety training. This video is highly important for any electrician, apprentice or journeyman, because it will help prevent injury… or even death.
How To: Safely work with high voltage when pole topping
This educational safety video is geared toward public and private utility workers and linemen who need to remove pole tops while dealing with high-voltage electrical cables and electrical insulators. It discusses the proper pole topping removal procedure and demonstrates effective procedures for removal.
How To: Clean high voltage electrical cables with solvents
The best way to make sure you have the best connections on high voltage-lines is to clean them. Cleaning high-voltage wires with cleaning solvents is the best way to get the job done for a better flow of electricity. This video, produced by Polywater, trains electricians on the proper high-voltage cable cleaning procedures during splicing and termination. Methods are shown to remove different types of shields and compounds from insulation. The "Do's and Don'ts" of abrasion, solvent spraying, ...
How To: Clean a swimming pool cartridge filter easily
Summer is just around the corner, so there's no better time than now to get everything ready to try and beat the heat. This is especially true for swimming pools. If you own a swimming pool, it's important to clean the filter every year to make sure there's no junk going in. So in this helpful tutorial, you'll find out how to clean a swimming pool cartridge filter easily. It's easy to do and will ensure you have a clean pool to swim in. Good luck and enjoy!
How To: Wire a ceiling fan
Ceiling fans are great to have in your home and can sometimes be better to use than an air conditioner during summer. But installing one may be tricky for those who have no experience working with electrical wiring. In this video series, you'll find out how to wire a ceiling fan in your home. It can be difficult to do and dangerous, so please be careful and enjoy!
How To: Easily install a ceiling fan
A ceiling fan is a cheap, economical way to add some nice air into your home during the hot summer months. They're easy to install and can actually save some money. So in these videos, you'll find out how to easily install a ceiling fan in your home today. Remember, you will be messing with electrical wires so be safe and wear the right equipment. Good luck and enjoy!
How To: Install an undermount sink in a bathroom
If you plan on remodeling your bathroom area, th videos in this tutorial, should be able to help. Replacing an old sink that has developed stains or other marks is a great way to help spruce up your bathroom area. This tutorial will help show you how to install an undermount sink in your bathroom easily. Now, this may not apply to all sink so make sure you have the right tools and equipment needed. Good luck and enjoy!
How To: Fix a toilet's tank
From time to time, toilets can be worn out and eventually break, resulting in repairs. Now calling a handyman or plumber is fine, but why spend so much money for something that you can easily do for fraction of what they would charge you? In this tutorial, you'll find out how to fix a toilet's tank. There can be many different problems that go on in a tank, but this is one of the most common problems. So check it out and good luck!
How To: Get a leak free fit for plumbing
Connecting pvc pipes may seem like an easy task, but in fact it can be a difficult job for anyone who may not have done it before. It involves time, patience, and the right tools needed for making sure you have a leak free fit. So check out this tutorial on how to properly fit your pvc pipes. Enjoy!
How To: Glue together pvc pipes
If you have a broken sprinkler system, it's a good idea to fix it as soon as possible. Depending on what the issue is, one of the most common problems involves an issue with being properly connected. In this tutorial, you'll find out how to glue together pvc pipes using easy to find and use common items. Enjoy!
How To: Easily unclog a kitchen sink
Prepare to get messy! In this helpful home tutorial, you'll be finding out how to unclog a kitchen sink. One of the most obvious reasons for a clogged sink is because if leftover food. But there are other things that can clog a pipe, so check out this tutorial on how to easily unclog you kitchen sink today. Good luck and enjoy!