The truth about Thomas Crapper
Even in a cold climate, these efficient units can provide both domestic hot water and whole-house heating.
Small builders join forces; California bill slashes lead in plumbing; more
Kitchen sinks; high-performance showers
Bosch PS20 Pocket Driver; Pipe Shredder; plumbing tools; job-site security
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Proper water-heater temperature; performance guidelines; preventive maintenance; more
Water Woes
Showers; high-pressure laminates
A year after Katrina: voices and impressions from a region rethinking how to build
Q: I recently learned that building codes in my state now require that newly installed water heaters be set at 140°F. But up until now, with concerns about energy conservation and scalding safety, 120°F was the normal setting. Why the change?
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Q. We recently had to replace our relatively new gas-fired water heater when its internal flue tube collapsed, ruining the thermostat and causing hot combustion gases to spew out the front. The installer, who claimed that the water heater was ruined by thermal expansion, added a thermal-expansion...
These devices tackle common plumbing predicaments without breaking the budget.
Faucets; glass & ceramic tile
Along the shore and intercoastal waterways, all sites are "difficult," requiring extra treatment for wastewater. Charles Wardell examines some of the more successful alternative treatment options that are being used by home builders up and down the coast.
Hot-water recirculation retrofit; bathroom lighting; cooktops
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Q. What precautions should you take when tearing out a post-tensioned slab? What are the risks? We are pouring a large post-tensioned slab, and while there is no demo involved at this stage, I would like to know how to proceed in case there is a plumbing
Hispanic labor; strong hips; attic mold; water-heater efficiency; tandem compressors; more
Adding a second water heater; laminate flooring
Resources for cabinetmakers, radiant heating products; kitchen faucets
An excavation contractor describes the installation of plastic leach chambers on a site where a conventional leach field wouldn't work.