Posts

Showing posts from January, 2024

How to clean corroded electric wires

Image
 When electrical wires are left too long in the weather, their metal can corrode. Electrical wires are usually made of copper and, as such, are subject to oxidation. If they are connected to a battery, the resulting corrosion can take the form of acid leakage. Electrical wires will appear covered with a white or greenish powder and lose their conductive properties. This can be very bad if an element that emits a lot of electricity has nowhere to go. Be safe When dealing with electrical cables, you need to be safe. Turn off the main panel switch off the power line that supplies the area where you will be working. Use the current tester to make sure there is no incoming current. Wear rubber gloves and safety goggles while working, as corrosive residues can slightly burn your skin or eyes. Access to electrical cables Use the screwdriver to remove the faceplate of the electrical socket you are working on, or to remove the cover of the electrical box. If you are working on an electrical b

How to repair a leaky bathtub overflow drain

Image
  The overflow part of a bathtub drain can be a homeowner's undoing if the overflow pipe has developed a leak or a loose connection. The overflow pipe of a bathtub is specifically designed to prevent water from flooding the bathtub, eventually leaking through the floorboards and ceiling of the room below, but if this essential pipe has its own defect, it is possible for water to leak from the pipe and flood the ceiling anyway. This can cause damage to plaster, flooding of the room below and even destruction of carpets and electrical items in the room below. Repairing the pipe is not a difficult job, and you do not need a professional if you have some basic housework skills. Just follow a few simple steps to get the job done quickly and easily. Turn off the water The first step is to make sure that all the water in the house is completely shut off. To do this, you need to open the main water valve of the house, which should be located outside the house or in the garage. Turn it off

Replacing the water heater in Sheffield

Image
  Water heaters, especially older ones, can stop producing enough hot water for your home. Newer water heaters are not only more economical due to energy savings, but have larger tanks to meet the needs of your home and have been upgraded with numerous safety features. Replace your old water heater and you will immediately notice the difference. Turn off and drain the old water heater Switch off the power to the water heater, depending on whether it is gas or electric. This prevents injury when removing the old appliance. Turn off the gas valve going to the water heater if it is gas, or turn off the switch in the switch box if it is electric. Also shut off the water supply to the water heater so that the tank does not try to fill itself when you empty it. Draining the water Drain all the water from the water heater using a tap inside the house. Turn on the hot water and run it until the water becomes cold or lukewarm. You can also drain the tank by connecting a hose to the water outl

Toilet tank leaks in the bowl: How to repair

Image
  Toilet tank leaks can cause a very annoying hissing sound that continues even after flushing. If you hear such a noise coming from the toilet tank even when it is not in use, it means that your toilet has a leak somewhere. If water from the tank drips into the bowl, there is probably a problem with the flush valve. Water Before proceeding further, locate the isolation valve under the toilet pipe and turn off the water. Flush the toilet to expel the water that is currently in the tank. After shutting off the water, the tank will not fill up. Rinse valve Watch carefully as water flows down through the flush valve as you flush the toilet. The discharge pipe below is the pipe where the water returns to the tank. Above it, you should see a rubber ring and a valve that fits into the hole at the bottom of the tank. Remove the drain valve and check the rubber washer. It may have shrunk, which is partly the cause of the leak. Remove it and fit the new valve. Replacing the valve washer Repla

Basic toilet repair

Image
  Basic toilet repairs are necessary from time to time. With a little care and attention, you can perform basic toilet repairs rather than paying an expensive plumber. Toilet bowl If the wax or other material used to seal the base of the toilet bowl is defective, a leak can occur, and the bathroom floor can become damp. The water supply to the toilet must be interrupted before attempting this repair. Once the system is dry, remove the bowl and clean the pipe. Then put the bowl back in and close it carefully. If the seal is in place and the bowl continues to leak, it is possible that there is a crack in the porcelain. This is extremely unlikely. In that case, however, repair of the toilet is impossible, and the entire bowl will have to be replaced . Toilet tank The most common toilet repair problem is a continuously flowing tank caused by a leak somewhere in the tank. The best way to check if your toilet is suffering from this toilet repair problem is to put a few drops of food colouri

Troubleshooting a slowly filling toilet tank

Image
  Blocked drains are one of the most common household plumbing problems that can cause significant inconvenience and even damage to your property. If not addressed promptly, blocked drains can cause a range of problems, from bad odors and slow-draining water to overflowing sinks and toilets. Fortunately, with the help of an expert plumber, unclogging blocked drains can be done quickly and efficiently. Identify the problem The first step in unclogging blocked drains is to identify the problem. An expert plumber will use special tools such as a drain camera to inspect the drain and determine the cause of the blockage. Some of the most common causes of blocked drains include grease buildup, tree roots, hair, and foreign objects. Once the plumber has identified the cause of the blockage, they will be able to recommend the most appropriate methods to resolve the issue. Prevention Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several steps you can take to prevent blocked drains from

Ways to increase water pressure

Image
  Starting the day with a weak shower is unsatisfying. Although you sometimes have to learn to live with low water pressure, it is good to give your guests or family members the pleasure of using high water pressure. Low water pressure can easily ruin your reputation as a landlord! Therefore, you must solve low water pressure problems and obtain a healthy water flow for you and your future guests. Contact the neighbours first Contacting your neighbours will help you understand if they also have the same problem. If so, the problem could be with the municipal water system. Like the plumbing in your home, the municipal water system is also prone to clogging, leaks, corrosion and build-up . Test the water pressure If the problem only occurs inside the house, then action should be taken. However, before calling a plumber, you should test the water pressure yourself, using a working pressure gauge with a connecting pipe. Simply screw the pressure gauge onto a hose and then open the tap. Mak

Do-it-yourself plumbing mistakes: how not to be a plumber

Image
  Do-it-yourself enthusiasts make a number of common mistakes. Here are the main plumbing mistakes to avoid. Not having the right tools You have finally decided to tackle a plumbing job at home: it can't be that difficult, can it? You have pulled out the trusty toolbox. Inside is a set of grinding wheels, a bent screwdriver that doubles as a chisel, a rusty tape measure with half the numbers missing and a blunt hacksaw. These types of tools will not get you far and will certainly hamper your chances of getting the job done with ease. Before undertaking any plumbing work , make sure you have the right tools for the job. Adjustable spanners, pump pliers, a set of screwdrivers, a tape measure and a well-made hacksaw are the bare minimum. Over-tightening of hydraulic fittings and pipe connections Over-tightening of plumbing fittings, whether plastic, brass, copper or iron, can cause serious problems. Over-tightening a plastic drain fitting can cause the nut to slip. Over-tightening an

How to replace the toilet flush

Image
  Replacing the toilet flush can be a crucial part of replacing a toilet, especially if the fittings and fixtures are very old or deteriorated. This can certainly be the case if the pipes are very old or compromised for some reason. Most of them are made of PVC pipes, a very durable form of plastic that has been used for plumbing for many years. However, it is not indestructible and must be replaced for various reasons. Some people move the position of the toilet and use a staggered flush, or it can be damaged when removing the toilet. Here you will find the information you need to carry out the project. Removing the toilet Start by removing the toilet . Shut off the water supply and disconnect the hose from the tank. Flush the toilet to remove as much water as possible from the tank and stool. Use a plunger to remove any remaining water from the stool. Loosen and remove the nuts that secure the tank to the stool and lift the tank. Carefully lay the tank on a towel or blanket. Next, lo

Household electrical troubleshooting

Image
 Household electrical troubleshooting can be a serious headache. Between sockets that suddenly stop working and flickering lights, many homeowners don't know where to start when faced with electrical problems . Fortunately, most electrical problems in the home are fairly easy to solve. Here is a quick guide on how to solve the most common household electrical problems and how to get the system back up and running in no time. Socket stops working There are many reasons why a socket can stop working. The first thing to check is the presence of surge protection on the socket itself. If it has not tripped, the next point to check is the breaker box. If there is no tripped switch in the box, it is possible that one of the socket wires has come loose. Before investigating further, turn off the breaker of that socket to avoid accidents or booms from the wires. The wires pushed on the back of sockets and switches can come loose over time. To solve the problem, remove the cover plate and so

Common plumbing mistakes at the beginning

Image
  Many homeowners often choose to save money by trying to repair the plumbing system themselves. Although many plumbing repairs are easy for those with a certain level of experience in home repairs, sometimes even the most experienced find themselves drowning in a plumbing nightmare.  Failure to check the valve Although it may seem obvious, many homeowners do not turn off the main water valve before attempting a repair. Failure to turn off the water supply - and verify that it is actually turned off before attempting a repair - can discharge hundreds of litres of water into the house. In this case, water damage can occur to furniture, floors, skirting boards and plasterboard. In addition, dampness can promote the formation of mould and fungus, which are not only a health hazard but also costly to remove. Improper water heater repair or replacement Replacing or repairing a water heater is one of the most common plumbing repairs to save some money. However, it is also a repair that can

Steps To Electrical Fault Finding

Image
  Electrical troubleshooting can be very dangerous, stressful and time-consuming. If you have installed circuit breakers, these will trip as soon as an electrical fault occurs. Consequently, these circuit breakers can keep your electrical appliances safe and sound. You only need to identify the cause of the fault to restore electricity throughout your home or office.  Step 1 - Deactivate circuit breakers Are you wondering what is causing the loss of electricity throughout the house? It is likely that the main circuit breaker has tripped. However, it is likely that the circuit breakers are still active. This is why it is necessary to turn off all circuit breakers for extra safety. You can turn off the circuit breakers without any problems. Step 2 - Switch on the main switch As discussed in the first step, the main safety switch may have tripped. Once all switches have been turned off, it is time to turn on the main switch. After doing this, the main switch has a power supply. However,

What are the risks involved in DIY electrical work?

Image
  Electrical work is associated with many risks. You may have experience with some basic repair work, but you should not carry out electrical work yourself. Doing so can lead to several serious problems, such as fire hazards and safety risks. In some cases, this can even lead to death. For this reason, you should avoid carrying out electrical work yourself without consulting an experienced tradesman. When it comes to electrical work, you should not jeopardise the safety of your family. Here are some of the main risks of DIY electrical work. Using the wrong cable dimensions For electrical safety, it is essential to use the correct wire gauge. Wires of different gauges are available on the market. A professional electrician knows which wire should be used depending on the circuit. For example, if a circuit in your home generates a higher amperage, you will need a thicker wire. An incorrectly sized wire can cause the fuse to overheat, posing a fire hazard. Wrong fuse If the circuit draw

Secret brilliant plumbing hacks

Image
 Remove blocked taps Faucet heads can become clogged over time, affecting the flow of water. Sometimes problems with low water pressure are not due to a problem in the pipes, but due to rubbish that has built up in the tap heads. Fill a jar with vinegar to unclog the drain. Hold it over the drain under the tap, with the tap head submerged in the vinegar. Turn on the water and let it run for a few minutes, even if the glass overflows and spills. The tap head is cleaned during this process. You can do the same with a slow shower drain by filling a bag half with vinegar and half with water and tying it to the shower head so that the head is at the bottom of the solution. Let it sit for an hour or so, or even overnight, to rid the shower head of a lot of the debris that could interfere with the water flow. Quick leak repair If you can locate a small leak on a pipe, use silicone self-sealing tape. It's waterproof and very sticky, and when you stretch it over a pipe, it's airtight. W

How to repair a bidet tap

Image
  Low water pressure or uninterrupted, intermittent or no water supply makes a bidet faucet inefficient. When the bidet faucet stops working properly, it's time to find the cause of the problem and fix it. To repair a bidet faucet or replace it with a new one, you only need basic plumbing knowledge.  Check the aerator If the bidet mixer does not have sufficient pressure or only a small amount of water is coming out of the opening, there may be a problem with the aerator. The aerator filters the water coming out of the opening and may be clogged with solid debris. To repair the aerator, it must first be removed. To do this, turn off the tap. It is not necessary to switch off the main water supply. To remove the aerator, simply turn it anti-clockwise until it comes off. Pull out the deposits inside the aerator with a finger. To remove the deposits in the filter, soak it in white vinegar for about ten minutes. Then use a toothbrush to remove the deposits. Rinse the aerator thoroughly

How do I know if my electrical outlet is on fire?

Image
  There are days when you, as a business owner or homeowner, discover that one of your electrical outlets has been melted and blackened by heat. Not only are you perplexed, but you're also quite concerned about the safety of your home, and rightfully so. Never ignore the smell of burning plastic or rubber; it can affect your electrical appliances and be the cause of a fire outbreak.  It's good to know the cause of the problem and what measures you should take as a safety precaution. Warning signs of a burning socket The best solution to prevent a fire is to keep your home safe and pay attention to the repair and maintenance of electrical appliances. However, there are three important warning signs that will alert you that your electrical outlet is on fire. If you notice these signs, contact us immediately. We have trained and professional technicians on call who can help you repair faulty sockets. Tingling sensation If you feel a tingling sensation after plugging in an electri

Reasons for hiring a plumber to fix plumbing problems instead of DIY

Image
  If you're still on the fence about whether you should hire a plumber to fix the problems with your plumbing system or just do it yourself, here are some good reasons in favour of the first option: Knowledge and experience A professional plumber has spent years obtaining a licence and accreditation. Many of them attend technical plumbing courses to learn how to properly perform repairs and properly handle tools and equipment to ensure everyone's safety. After completing the courses, they apply for an apprenticeship to gain experience before getting their licence as a plumber. The apprenticeship lasts around 2 to 5 years and is designed to ensure that trainee plumbers are able to take on jobs from customers independently. When you hire a plumber , you can be sure that he has the knowledge and experience to provide excellent plumbing services. His license prove that he can take care of your plumbing system and fix any problem you have with it. Cost Effective Many homeowners cho

Common problems that you need a plumber to solve

Image
 On the complicated road to home ownership, unexpected plumbing problems often crop up. From a seemingly harmless drip to an urgent burst pipe, these problems can disrupt daily life and affect the comfort of your living space.  Fortunately, the expertise of professional plumbers can quickly fix these common problems and ensure that your home remains a place of comfort and functionality. Let's take a look at five common plumbing problems that require contacting a qualified plumber so you can make an informed decision when it comes to your home.  IMPROPERLY RUNNING TOILETS: THE SPOOKY MENACE A toilet that runs constantly can be more than just annoying - it's a drain on your resources. This problem is often caused by a faulty check valve or a malfunctioning fill valve. A professional plumber can expertly diagnose the problem and ensure that water is conserved and your energy bills don't skyrocket. SMELLY DRAINS: UNCOVER THE CAUSE OF THE ODOUR Few things are as unpleasant as f

Hidden signs of electrical problems

Image
  Electrical problems can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. From flickering lights to faulty sockets , these problems not only disrupt daily routines but also pose a potential safety risk. While some electrical issues are easy to spot, others remain hidden until they grow into bigger problems. It's important to pay attention to the subtle signs that indicate underlying electrical issues. When to call your electrician! Electrical systems are an essential part of our homes, providing us with the comfort and convenience we rely on every day. However, sometimes these systems can develop problems that are not immediately obvious. These hidden electrical problems can be both frustrating and dangerous if left unfixed. To maintain a safe and functioning home, it's important to recognise the signs of these hidden problems. Flickering lights: A common hidden sign of electrical problems is flickering lights. While an occasional flicker is not a cause for concern, a persistent flicke

How can I fix the most common water leaks?

Image
  If you have a water leak in your home, there are a few ways to fix it. Here are some common water leaks and how you can fix them. Dripping tap: how to fix it? Dripping, dripping. What's that sound coming from your tap? Leaking taps can have various causes, but wear and tear and dirt build-up are the most common. Open the tap and inspect the sealing ring. If you notice any dirt, you can easily remove it with a cloth. However, if you see that the tap is already damaged, it may be time to replace it.  Leaking plastic water pipe: how do you repair it? To repair a leaking water pipe, check where the leak is coming from. Turn off the water source and then replace the affected pipe. If you are looking for a quick fix, you can use duct tape and epoxy resin. However, if the damage is severe, you should call a plumber immediately. Instead, use rubber and a hose clamp to repair the leak while you wait for the plumber. Leaking plastic water pipe connection: How do you fix it? Just like repa

How to find hidden water leaks in your home

Image
  Water leaks can cause enormous damage to your home and property if they are not repaired in time. Water stains on the ceilings, walls or floors are usually the first signs of a water leak. But what if you can't recognise any obvious signs? Here are seven ways to find hidden leaks in your home before you call for a water leak repair. Test the water meter One way to detect hidden water leaks is to perform a water meter test. Turn off all the taps in your home and check the water meter. If it is still running, then you have a water leak. Even if the water meter reading does not change immediately, you should check it again after a few hours and compare the readings. If the water meter has moved, you may have a slow-flowing leak. Water pressure test Another way to detect hidden water leaks is to check the water pressure in your home. Turn off all taps and measure the water pressure. If the pressure is lower than normal, check for a water leak. Listen for running water If there are n

Signs that you need to call a plumbing specialist

Image
  Sometimes plumbing problems can be solved by yourself. In other cases, you need to call in a professional. Here are some signs that you should call a plumbing professional . You smell sewage If you smell sewage in your home or garden, it could be a drainage problem or a blockage in your pipe. Don't ignore the odour as it can lead to bigger problems if a blockage is not cleared by a plumber. Water gurgles up If one drain starts gurgling while another is in use, or if a drain gurgles while you are using it, there is a problem with your plumbing. The gurgling means that something is obstructing the flow of water and air in your plumbing or that a vent pipe is clogged. In either case, you should not use home remedies but call a plumber. The tap drips incessantly A constantly dripping tap can cost you dearly over time. It could mean that you have a crack in a pipe or that a pipework element has not been installed correctly. The safest and possibly most cost-effective solution to a con

Common signs that it's time to replace your toilet

Image
 Problems with your toilet can be frustrating and discouraging, especially if you don't have the tools to fix it. How can you tell if your toilet is beyond repair and needs to be replaced ? Our guide will save you time (and water) and give you important clues that it might be time to say goodbye to your beloved toilet. You can rely on us when it comes to your toilet: repair, installation, maintenance and unclogging.  How old is your toilet? It's obvious that something old needs replacing, but some people don't realise just how old their toilet is. On average, a toilet can be up to 50 years old. However, that doesn't mean you should keep your 49-year-old toilet for a few more years. Older toilets are often inefficient. If your toilet is 25 years old, you should consider switching to a newer toilet to save water and money.  Cracks in the tank Cracks are not always easily visible to the human eye. A common sign of a crack is when you notice puddles at the bottom of the t

Why should you hire an electrician to wire your home?

Image
  The modern world cannot function without electrical energy. We need electricity to carry out even the most basic activities of daily life. However, problems with electrics can prove dangerous. That's certainly reason enough to make sure your home has a properly installed wiring system. This is a simple task when you contact an electrician. If you don't know where to hire one, we have a suggestion. We offer expert electrical services. Just visit our website or give us a call, and our licensed technicians will take care of everything for you. Now let's talk about why an electrician is the best choice for wiring your home: Knowledge and experience An electrician is a person who has experience in the field and is knowledgeable about certain things that you know nothing about. They may be very good at troubleshooting, but installing wiring systems is tricky, and a single misstep can lead to undesirable results. Even if the job looks simple and easy, it may not be. Many people