Avoid "Auto" Conclusions Don't try to solve the problem while you're still in your truck. Some technicians make up their minds before looking around, and then they set out to prove that they're right - even if they're not! Comprehend the components If you don't understand how the parts work…
Bath Fans Do More Than Clear Odors
Since the bathroom is the most humid room in any house, a ventilation fan is the best defense against moisture-related problems—namely, mold and mildew. Humidity is not only uncomfortable, it is damaging to your home, particularly indoors where it can lead to peeling paint, warped wooden doors …
When to use Supply End Caps on Viega Manablocs
Viega Manablocs have three “supply port” connections: one hot and one cold at the top, and one cold at the bottom. Since the Manabloc is partitioned internally into hot and cold sections, hot water from the water heater must enter through the hot port. Incoming cold water can enter through eithe…
Connecting PEX to PB
Polybutylene (PB) piping was commonly used for domestic water piping in the United States during parts of the 1970s and 1980s. Polybutylene can be identified by its gray color. Lawsuits related to fitting assembly failures caused the production of PB to stop, but the plastic tubing is still present …
How to Fix a Leaky Cast-iron Radiator
J-B Weld Company of Sulfur Springs, TX (903-885-7696) told me that the City of Dallas, Texas used their product to repair a cracked Caterpillar engine block. That sure got my attention! They also said that people have been using J-8 Weld to fix old cast-iron radiators. But to do this you first h…
Fitting Sizing for Copper Pipe
It's important to remember that when buying fittings for plumbing and heating systems, copper pipe sizing refers to the listed size of the pipe which is approximately the inner diameter. For example, a ½ inch Copper fitting doesn't actually measure ½ inch. It simply fits over the ½ copper pipe…
Give your Dryer a Boost
Does it seem like it takes forever for your clothes to dry? The solution may be easier than you think. With a Fantech Dryer Booster Exhaust Fan from SupplyHouse.com you can cut down on clothes drying times and slash your utility bills. Dryer Booster Fans are perfect for homes with long runs betwe…
The Many Advantages of Baseboarders Covers
Baseboarders baseboard heater covers offer several important benefits for home renovation projects (or even new construction): Their unique perforated design can enhance the look of any room The covers may be spray-painted or cut to size for further customization Do-it-yourself installation …
Keep Your Home Cool, Dry, and Energy-Efficient With a Dehumidifier
Sure it's uncomfortable outside, but if you are sensing damp, sticky conditions indoors, it's definitely time to consider the benefits of a dehumidification system. Hot and muggy summer weather outside can mean excess moisture inside. Mold and mildew, musty odors, condensation, warped wooden surf…
“Which Line Set Do I Need?”
I recently spoke with Nicole from customer service and she told me that a number of people call and ask about Line Set sizing. A line set is used to connect an indoor evaporator unit to the outdoor condenser in a ductless mini-split air conditioning system. A line set includes a supply and ret…
Connecting PEX to PVC
There is no traditional fitting that can connect PEX directly to PVC. Most push-fit fittings such as SharkBites work with PEX, copper, and CPVC -- but not with PVC pipe (Schedule 40, Schedule 80, DWV, etc.), but there is a recently developed SharkBite fitting that can do the job. The tried and tru…
Tip: Use Shut-off Flanges with Hydronic Circulators
Most circulator pumps in hydronic heating systems connect to system piping with flanged connections. Flange options allow different pipe sizes (between 3/4" and 1-1/2" for standard residential circulators) and connection methods (sweat or threaded) to be used with the same pump. SupplyHouse offers f…
