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Showing posts from June, 2024

FIVE ELECTRICAL TIPS FOR A WORRY-FREE SUMMER HOLIDAY

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  Smart tips for energy and home security before the holidays Turn up the thermostat - Nowadays, homeowners can control their thermostat from their mobile phone, but for those of us who still do things the old-fashioned way, setting the thermostat four degrees higher than normal will save you some money. Don't be greedy, though. Setting the thermostat too high can damage drywall, while high humidity levels in the house can lead to mould growth. Check your sump pumps - The tropical island may be dry and sunny, but torrential storms are expected at home. Check your sump pumps to ensure that water stays out of your home while you are away. If your area is prone to power outages, consider backup batteries. Turn on lights - Although most appliances should be unplugged while you are away, keeping lights on can give the impression that someone is home. All you need to do is set some lights in the house on timers. For example, turn on the master bedroom at 9pm and turn off the lights a few

WHY WATER LEAKS CAN BE DANGEROUS

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 STRUCTURAL DAMAGE A water leak can significantly damage homes and can even lead to structural collapse resulting in accidents. This is because water can easily seep into walls or ceilings, compromising their structural integrity. In turn, you may end up paying more for repair and restoration services. This is why it is essential to address the problem as early as possible by scheduling leakage repair services in a timely manner. HEALTH PROBLEMS Water leaks can encourage the formation of mould and fungus. Mould and mildew release allergens and exposure to these particles can cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and a runny nose. The formation of mould and fungus can be prevented through immediate detection and repair of water leaks. WASTED WATER AND HIGH WATER BILLS If left unchecked for a prolonged period, water leaks can cause a sharp increase in utility bills. They also result in wasted water. Water is a precious resource that must be conserved,

WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A WATER EMERGENCY

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  REACH THE WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE If you find yourself in a plumbing emergency involving an uncontrollable gush of water, such as a burst pipe or a sink overflow, the first step is to locate the water shut-off valve to stop the flow. Water shut-off valves can be located near or around points of use, such as the sink and toilet. AVOID USING WATER In an emergency, it is best to avoid using water until the problem has been resolved. This includes not flushing the toilet and not running the washing machine. REFRAIN FROM USING DO-IT-YOURSELF METHODS When dealing with plumbing emergencies, refrain from using do-it-yourself methods except to mitigate the damage. Do not attempt to carry out plumbing repairs yourself, as DIY can often lead to further damage and even more expensive repairs. For any plumbing problem, rely on the experts at Emergency Plumber in Manchester. We pride ourselves on our quick response times and the quality of our work. When you choose us for your plumbing needs, you ca

ARE DIY LEAK REPAIRS A GOOD IDEA?

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 RISK OF DAMAGE AND INJURY As with any type of plumbing repair , there is always a risk of injury or accident. Even highly trained leak repair technicians are very careful and wear the required safety equipment before starting work. Needless to say, untrained people are more exposed to the risk of accidents. INEFFICIENT REPAIRS Water leaks may not be properly addressed if they are repaired with a do-it-yourself approach. Repairing leaks without supervision is likely to lead to even more frequent failures. In addition, other problems that may result from unresolved leaks may become more costly to fix as time passes. For this reason, it is best to outsource leak repair services to professionals for optimal and lasting results. UNDERLYING PROBLEMS While you may 'fix' the obvious leaks that you can see, you may overlook the underlying problems with your plumbing system. Invisible problems can create future plumbing problems that may be more difficult to solve. Using advanced water

WHY IS IT NECESSARY TO UPDATE PLUMBING SYSTEMS?

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 Plumbing systems are an essential component of any home or commercial facility. Installations include taps, sinks, toilets, showers and bathtubs. Over time, these fixtures can deteriorate or become obsolete, causing plumbing problems and inefficiency.  If you are in doubt about whether you need to update your plumbing systems from time to time, this is for you. PREVENTING PLUMBING PROBLEMS Older installations can be a source of inconvenience. In fact, they tend to become more inefficient over time, developing problems such as frequent clogging and leaks. They can also waste a lot of water, making frequent plumbing repairs necessary. Upgrading outdated and damaged systems solves problems and saves time and money in the long run. If you find yourself continually repairing the same fixture, it is probably time to replace it. INCREASES EFFICIENCY IN THE HOME Although the market is full of good-looking plumbing fixtures, homeowners should choose the most energy-efficient plumbing fixtures

DON'T STAY IN THE DARK - ELECTRICAL REPAIR

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 If you notice that the lights in your home sometimes flicker or dim, you are not alone. Flickering lights are an extremely common and often harmless electrical problem caused by a bad connection in a specific area. However, it is important to call an electrician to identify the source of the flickering. What appears to be a minor lighting problem could be dangerous and require urgent repair .  Bulbs A simple solution to flickering lights could lie in the bulbs themselves, even in fixtures where the bulb is not exposed. If you check yourself, make sure the light is switched off and wear a thick glove to avoid burns. Loose connection If the connection of the on-off switch on the luminaire is loose, this could be responsible for the flickering problem. It is also advisable to check that the plug of the appliance does not have bent poles, which can also break the electrical connection. For these problems, it is best to consult a professional electrician, as diagnosing and repairing loose

IS IT POSSIBLE TO BE PREPARED FOR A HYDRAULIC EMERGENCY?

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 PREVENTION A frozen pipe is a fairly common plumbing emergency, the likelihood of which can be reduced by insulating pipes. Another thing to do is to close the main water valves if you are away during the winter months. In addition, you can avoid serious clogging by being careful about what you pour down the drain and flush down the toilet . Human waste should be the only thing you flush down the toilet. We also advise against the use of aggressive chemical drain cleaners, because they can cause serious damage and corrode the pipes. PREPARE CLEANING EQUIPMENT Only a professional is qualified to carry out plumbing repairs. However, you can start cleaning before the plumber arrives. Brushes and spatulas are examples of tools that can be used to clean up standing water from burst pipes or leaks. Fans and dehumidifiers can also be used to dry carpets and rugs. In addition, a good all-purpose cleaner is an example to keep on hand. It can be used after cleaning up the mess to eliminate odou

HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO THE RESIDENTIAL SWITCH BOX

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 Some homeowners avoid the main switch box because they are afraid of getting shocked or breaking something. Although many electrical problems are best left to a licensed electrician, as a homeowner it is important to have a basic understanding of what a breaker box is and how it works.  Understanding how the circuit breaker box works The circuit breaker box is a kind of electricity distribution centre in a house. The main switch box receives incoming power from the mains wires on the street and distributes it to an assortment of wires serving different rooms and appliances throughout the house. It is like a large light switch with smaller switches that perform different functions.  The inner workings of the switch panel It is important to understand how the switch box works in case you need to quickly cut off power to the house due to an emergency situation, such as a flood or fire. Other times, it may be necessary to access the circuit breaker box to work on a circuit breaker that h

THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF WATER LEAKS

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  WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF LEAKS? Leaks in pipes can be caused by anything from ageing pipes to the intrusion of tree roots. Over time, pipes can corrode or become misaligned, causing weak points. Tree roots growing deep into the ground can damage underground pipes by putting pressure on the pipes. Temperature variations can also alter the integrity of the plumbing system. Do you suspect a leak? Our team is made up of professionals in water leak detection. WHY REPAIR A LEAK? Leaks are one of the main causes of water damage in a home, so rapid water leak detection is essential. The consequences of failing to repair a leaking pipe can be devastating. A crack in a water pipe can lead to contamination of drinking water if debris were to enter through a crack. Water that accumulates in a leaky pipe can create the perfect home for mould and fungus, which can cause health problems for the family. Finally, water damage can weaken the structure of the home, creating a safety hazard.  If your ho

WHERE ARE PIPE LEAKS USUALLY LOCATED?

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 UNDER FOUNDATIONS One of the most difficult areas to detect is under foundations. Over time, ground shifts and extreme temperature variations can cause pipes to rupture, resulting in leaks that are not immediately visible.  INVISIBLE LEAKS IN WALLS Leaks inside walls can be difficult to detect until visible damage occurs. Defective pipes hidden behind walls can lead to water damage, mould growth and compromised structural integrity. Early water leak detection services are essential to identify these hidden leaks before they escalate into serious problems. UNDERGROUND PIPE NETWORKS  Ageing infrastructure and environmental factors can contribute to leaks in these underground systems. Regular maintenance and timely repair of water leaks are essential to avoid disruptions and preserve valuable resources. AROUND APPLIANCES AND INSTALLATIONS Leaks around household appliances and installations, such as toilets, sinks and dishwashers, are common sources of water damage. Regular inspections a

OVERLOAD VS. OVERLOAD FAULTY WIRING: DIFFERENTIATING BETWEEN CIRCUIT BREAKER TRIPPING CAUSES

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  About overload: Overload is a situation where the electrical demand of a circuit exceeds its ability to safely handle the load. It occurs when too many devices or appliances are connected to a single circuit , drawing more current than it can handle. This excessive current trips the circuit breaker, breaking the circuit and removing power to prevent overheating and potential electrical hazards. Signs of overload: Frequent circuit breaker trips: If a particular circuit trips frequently, especially when several devices are in use at the same time, it is a strong indication of overload. Dim or flickering lights: When switching on some high-powered appliances, such as air conditioners or refrigerators, lights may momentarily dim or flicker. This may suggest a circuit overload. Hot, humming sockets or cables: Overloaded circuits generate heat due to excessive current flow. If you notice hot sockets, cables or electrical panels, it may be a sign of overloading. Overload prevention: Know th

WHAT DOES A BUZZING ELECTRICAL OUTLET MEAN?

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 If you hear a slight hum in the house, it is easy to think that it is due to a fan or an electronic device left on. However, it is best to listen closer: it could be coming from the electrical socket . Although an outlet making noise may seem like a minor problem, it could be a sign of a bigger problem that could cause serious damage to your home. Our electrical experts are here to explain what you need to know if you hear an electrical buzzing noise in your home: What does a buzzing electrical outlet mean? The buzzing of an electrical socket is not something to be taken lightly. Electricity in the home is generated by alternating currents, which change polarity almost 50 times per second. In most cases, the change of polarity does not produce any noise. However, when the current is interrupted, it is possible to hear a buzzing or humming sound, also known as an electrical buzz. The main causes of a buzzing electrical socket Loose connections: This problem is more common in older home

How to replace a light switch or an electrical socket

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 Turn off the power The first thing to do before replacing a light switch or an electrical outlet is to turn off the power to the circuit. Turn off the main electrical panel in your home by finding the appropriate switch and turning it to the 'off' position.  Remove Old Light Switch or Electrical Outlet Disconnect wall cables Disconnect the wall cables from the switch by loosening the terminal screws. These screws secure the 'hooked' end of the wires to the terminals of the switch. Single-pole switches have three wires: Usually one black (hot), one white (neutral) and a separate earth wire (usually green or bare copper). Note that some older houses do not have a ground wire. Also, if the light switch or electrical outlet is in the middle of a circuit, there are usually two white wires.  Cut excess bare wire Use a wire cutter to cut the excess bare wire that extends beyond the plastic insulation. Do this on all wires, unless you shorten them too much (you will only have

How to replace a toilet in Nottingham

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 Emptying the toilet Turn off the water to the toilet. If you do not have a corner stop valve near the toilet, you must turn off the water at the main stop valve in your home. Flush the toilet several times to remove water from the bowl and the tank. Then absorb the remaining water with a cloth or sponge. Remove the supply hose Disconnect the water supply hose . This is the hose that connects from the stop valve to the toilet tank. Unscrew it from the tank. Remove the tank If the toilet is in two pieces, you will first have to remove the tank. Inside the tank, unscrew the bolts that secure it to the toilet. Use an 8″ spanner to grip the washer under the tank and use the screwdriver to turn the bolt. You should now be able to remove the tank by lifting it up. Remove the tank from the floor Prepare to dirty the floor with some water. Remove the plugs that are above the bolts in the floor. Unscrew the nuts using the 8″ spanner. If they are corroded, you may need a hacksaw to remove them.

Essential rules for electrical safety in the home

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 Electrical safety is not common knowledge, but it is very important to keep in mind when you are at home or at work. Here are four electrical safety rules that everyone should follow to keep their family and home safe. 1. Keep all objects and fingers out of electrical outlets Although this is a fairly well-known rule for adults, be sure to educate younger ones to never stick anything, such as a toy or fork, into an electrical socket . If you have children, try buying a pack of plastic socket covers to be even safer. 2. Do not overload sockets One way to overload the circuit and start a fire is to overload a power strip with a large number of appliances. Never connect too many things to a power strip and unplug it if you are not using it. Keep large appliances plugged in at different points in the house to ensure safe circuits. 3. Keep hair products away from water Be very careful when using your hair dryer or straightener when the sink is wet. A good thing to remember is to NEVER use

What to do when the electric switch panel bursts and sizzles?

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  If something abnormal occurs in any part of your electrical system, it is a very frightening situation. And if you are wondering what to do when your electrical switch panel bursts and sizzles, you should definitely address the problem right away. Because your electrical switch panel could burst and sizzle: Loose or damaged wire Sparking and sizzling from the switch panel could be caused by a loose or damaged wire. Over time, the degradation of wires and switchboards is to be expected, as all things wear out and weaken with age. Wires can become loose or damaged due to normal wear and tear, causing the popping and sparking that can be heard and seen when electricity escapes from the damaged area. Insulation The wires themselves may be fine, but it is the insulation that has worn out. Worn insulation can cause sparks and a popping sound because exposed wires can still create electrical arcs that give rise to these problems. Uninsulated wires are extremely dangerous because the sparks

Troubleshooting common GFCI sockets

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  Wear and tear GFCI sockets are vulnerable to wear and tear, just like standard electrical sockets , so the sockets are expected to be less effective over time. One of the symptoms of GFCI socket overuse is that it clicks more than usual. This is because a worn GFCI socket is not able to adapt to changes in electrical current like a new one. For this reason, when using the socket for hairdryers and heaters, the GFCI socket is prone to tripping. To solve this problem, simply install a new socket with earth switch. Black wire touching bare earth If your GFCI is relatively new, the problem may lie in the black and white wires. Go to the circuit breaker and turn off the circuit of the GFCI socket that has problems. Then unscrew the earth switch socket and pull it out of the box. Pull the black and white wires out of the GFCI socket. Using the ohmmeter, check whether there is continuity between the GFCI socket ground and the black and white wires. If continuity is obtained by disconnecting

How to remove a claw-foot bathtub

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 With the right tools, knowledge and preparation, you can successfully remove a clawfoot bathtub without causing any damage. This comprehensive guide will take you step-by-step through the process of removing a clawfoot bathtub, providing tips for restoring and reusing the tub and preparing the space for a new one . First of all, before embarking on this project, it is essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Some essential tools are adjustable spanners or pipe spanners to disconnect plumbing fixtures such as taps and drain pipes. Also, a crowbar or pry bar can help loosen the adhesive or caulking that secures the tub to the floor. Getting to know claw-foot bathtubs Before diving into the removal process, it is essential to understand what exactly a claw-foot tub is. These iconic elements are often made of high-quality materials, such as cast iron or porcelain, which contribute to their durability and enhance their aesthetic appeal. The distinctive feature of claw-foo

How to install the base of a sink cabinet

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 Sink cabinets are convenient places to stand. Kitchen sink cabinets can hold cleaning materials, rubbish cans or rubbish disposals, while bathroom sinks can hold paper goods, towels or toiletries. These cabinets or sinks usually do not have drawers on the top, as the recessed basin of the sink does not allow for the necessary space. However, many do have drawers on one or both sides. The opening directly in front of the sink is usually equipped with doors, but can be covered by a curtain for a simpler solution. If a prefabricated solution is desired, a sink cabinet can be purchased to fit the available space. However, if you have some basic carpentry and plumbing knowledge, you can also build one yourself. Prepare the space and materials for the sink For a smooth and healthy installation, start by clearing the space around which you will be working. The plumbing can run through the walls or directly under the sink through the floor. Measure the width at the base. Take note of the rel

How to test a backflow preventer

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 Shutting off the water supply First of all, shut off the water supply. Warn people in the house not to use the water until the backflow test is complete and water pressure is restored. Investigation of device and water direction There are two types of backflow preventers: reduced pressure devices and double check valves. Examine the type of device to be tested. Also examine the direction of water flow. The arrows or markings provided by the manufacturer on the device will inform you. Observe the valve Close the shut-off valve downstream. When testing a device at reduced pressure principle, wait a few minutes before connecting the hoses of the test kit. The emission of water from the valve indicates that the first check valve is most likely dirty and must be repaired before you can continue. Water escaping from double check valves, on the other hand, is not indicative of any problem. Follow instructions The hoses in the test kit come with instructions. Follow the instructions to conne

ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS THAT EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

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 AVOID OVERLOADING SOCKETS The flow of electricity generates heat, and the more electricity flows, the more heat increases. Electrical sockets are rated for a certain amount of electricity - typically 15 amps - and exceeding this threshold can create dangerous conditions that can lead to a fire. If the circuit breaker is working properly, it should cut the power before the heat becomes excessive, but if a fuse does not blow, it could be a bad day. FOLLOW THE APPLIANCE'S INSTRUCTIONS All household appliances have specific instructions for use and, to be on the safe side, you should follow them. For the most part, appliances are quite simple, but pay particular attention to those that generate heat. Their heating elements absorb a lot of energy, pose a risk of electrocution near water and, if used incorrectly, can be a fire hazard. USE EXTENSION CORDS SPARINGLY It is said that there is nothing more durable than a temporary solution that works: and extension cords are often used in e

Do-it-yourself electrical maintenance

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 Surge protection It only takes a power surge to knock out your expensive electronic devices, so knowing when and how to use a surge protector is one of the best things you can do to take care of your home. You should use them with computers, TVs and other expensive electronic devices. Get a surge protector with an indicator light to tell you if it is working, because a strong enough surge can burn it out. Another way to ensure electrical safety against surges is to have surge protection for the whole house. The right socket It is also important that homeowners know the types of electrical sockets , as different types are required for different areas. GFCI sockets protect against electrocution (from water), while AFCI sockets protect against electrical fires.  Securing light bulbs and smoke detectors The next item on our list of do-it-yourself electrical tips is securing light bulbs and smoke detectors. It is easy to prevent bulbs from coming loose by screwing them all the way in, but

Are you thinking of selling your house? Be ready for a plumbing inspection!

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 Why is a plumbing inspection important? The home inspection is an essential step for the savvy buyer, who employs a licensed professional who analyses the current condition of the home in detail to their satisfaction.  Potential buyers are also more likely to consider buying a property with well-maintained plumbing. Plumbing problems, even minor ones, can turn into costly and time-consuming headaches in the future. For this reason, it is advisable to have a plumbing professional carry out an inspection of your home's plumbing system prior to sale. What does a plumbing inspection involve? A plumbing inspection can be performed on different parts of the plumbing system. A potential buyer may want to inspect the sewer line. For this reason, a camera inspection of the sewer line will be carried out. Other times, potential buyers want to know the current condition of the pipes/water lines and/or the water heater. In this case, the inspection would be performed on both the water heater

Repairing a lamp installed without a junction box

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 If you have an old lamp that is not attached to the wall or ceiling with a junction box, you must repair it by removing it, installing a junction box and installing a new lamp. Lamps that simply protrude from the ceiling or wall without a junction box are a fire in the making. Use this simple step-by-step guide to remove the old lamp and install a new one with a suitable junction box. Turning off the power Go to the main switch box in your home and find the circuit breaker that powers the lamp you want to replace. Turn off the circuit breaker. Remove the old lamp Once you are satisfied that the fixture is no longer powered, remove the screws that secure it to the wall or ceiling and pull out the wiring. Disconnect the wiring and discard the old lamp. Finding the nearest hanger bolt Use a hanger bolt finder to locate the hanger bolt closest to where the old lamp was installed. If you are lucky, the old lamp was screwed to a hanger bolt and the installation of the new junction box will

THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS IN THE OFFICE

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 Whether it is an office in a commercial building or a construction site, both present a number of potential electrical hazards. It is important that electrical maintenance and safety checks are carried out regularly by a professional team to avoid any problems. WORN AND DAMAGED EQUIPMENT Sometimes, due to the team's busy schedule, the office's appliances and electronic devices are neglected. You think everything is working properly until the equipment gets damaged or, worse, you get an electric shock.  To prevent this from happening, regularly check cables, wires and cords for damage. If you notice any defects, have them replaced immediately. INSUFFICIENT EARTHING Without proper earthing, the risk of electrocution is higher. Have the earthing checked by professionals. OVERLOADED CIRCUITS There may not be enough sockets in your office for the number of people working there, so depend on extension cords. Always make sure that these extension cords are evenly distributed to avoid

Signs of possible problems with the house's electrical wiring

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  Electrical wiring is something that scares homeowners a lot, and they do everything they can to avoid dealing with it. However, remember that you don't have to deal with problems alone; you just need to know how to spot them so that you can call an electrician to help you solve them. Here are some common electrical alarm signals and their meaning. Flickering lights in windy conditions - it is very likely that there is frayed wiring where the external wiring enters the house. This is the so-called weather head. This is not only annoying, but also very dangerous, as it can start a fire if left alone. The first contact should be the utility company, as they should be responsible for the problem. Not enough sockets - if you find that you are constantly using extension cords and power strips, you should check your home to ensure that there are actually enough sockets throughout the house. Newly built houses are required to have a socket every three metres, while older houses are kept

How to prevent lightning damage to the home

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 Extremely costly damage, in the form of broken roof tiles, fried electronic devices and burnt-out racking boards, corners and window coverings, can add up to a hefty bill when it comes time to repair them. An efficient lightning protection system can avoid this inconvenience altogether. But read on, because the answer to how best to protect yourself is not as simple as you might think. According to conventional wisdom, poles attract lightning by virtue of the fact that they are the highest point at which lightning can pass from the pole to the ground without damaging the house or anything else of value along the way. But things are not so simple. The pole, in fact, neither attracts nor repels lightning, but channels it in case it strikes. Therefore, if the pole is the target of the lightning, the house is safe. Otherwise, the presence of the pole is more important for your peace of mind than for real protection. Not to worry, however: an equally affordable but much safer lightning pro

HOW CAN I REPAIR A LEAKING PIPE WITHOUT REPLACING IT?

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 The last thing to do is to replace the leaking pipe: it is an expensive and time-consuming operation. But how else can a leaking pipe be repaired? Fortunately, there are many ways to stop leaks and save the expense of a new installation . It is necessary to know what to do each time. Leaky pipes can be caused by corrosion or improperly installed joints. Here is how to repair a leaking pipe without having to replace it. Shut off the main water supply To start the repair, you will first have to shut off the main water supply. Simply locate the water meter and turn the knob clockwise to stop the water flow. Test this by waiting a few minutes and then turn on a tap in another part of the house to see if there is still running water. If there is no running water, the main supply has been successfully interrupted. Prepare the pipes for repair After shutting off the water, you can clean the pipes and the surrounding area of dirt, grime and rust. Any small particles left in the area can cause

HOW TO REPAIR A SLOW-DRAINING SINK?

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  A slow drain is when the sink does not drain efficiently for more than two minutes. The problems that cause a slow draining sink can be different. It is therefore necessary to understand what the cause might be and find out how to solve the problem. Although there is no particular solution to clear a clogged sink, you have several options to try. You may choose to start with the simplest option. Cleaning the sink plug The sink plug is prone to catching hair and other debris because of its position at the mouth of the drain. The trapped debris can swell, causing a slow drain. You can easily unscrew the modern sink cap to clean it. To remove the sink cap for cleaning, you can follow the instructions below: Check under the sink, where it connects to the pipe. You will see a rod, a nut and a clip. Using pliers, turn the nut to unlock it. Tighten the clip to release the small rod, then lift the plug from the drain. Use a rag to remove and thoroughly clean the dirt and debris. Dissolving

Toilet basics: Understanding the different components

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 The most common colours are white and almond. Gravity-fed toilets operate with a conventional flush, in which water flowing from the tank is released into the bowl and its weight and the force of gravity pull the  waste down the drain . Pressure units use the pressure built up in the water supply to increase the force of the flush. They tend to be noisier than gravity-fed models, but the bowl empties quickly (within 4 seconds). The larger water holding surface reduces the formation of stains. Since the siphon of pressure models has fewer bends, it is less likely to clog than a gravity-fed system.  Some models are even designed to automatically flush when the seat lid is closed. Double flushers are equipped with a lever that uses 1.6 gallons for solid waste removal and 1.1 gallons for liquid waste. The footprint is the distance between the finished wall and the centre of the sewer outlet. The standard footprint is 10, 12 or 14 inches. Another style is the one-piece toilet. Flush handle

Our guide to repairing and replacing water pipes and valves

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 Understanding damage to water pipes and valves Common causes of damage include, but are not limited to, natural wear and tear, corrosion, external physical damage and temperature fluctuations. Over time, water pipes and valves can deteriorate due to the constant flow of water. This can cause cracks, leaks and other problems. Water mains and valves can corrode due to the presence of minerals in the water, such as chlorine and sulphate. Water mains and valves can be damaged by external forces, such as construction, excavation or accidents. Water pipes and valves can expand and contract due to temperature changes. This can stress pipes and valves, causing cracks and leaks. The consequences of a damaged water main and valve include, but are not limited to, health risks, property damage, increased bills and environmental impact.   Damaged mains and valves can cause water contamination, posing serious health risks. Contaminated water can contain bacteria, viruses and other harmful substanc

Signs of a leak

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 Some plumbing problems are obvious. Problems such as clogged toilets, slow drains and broken water heaters are hard to ignore. Other plumbing problems, such as leaks, can be much more elusive. They can develop out of sight, in walls, floors and ceilings, and persist for some time, causing damage , before being noticed. RISING WATER BILLS Have your water bills suddenly increased? If so, it is possible that there is a leak in the house. To be sure that the increase is not due to a seasonal change, compare your current water bills with those of the same month last year. 2. THE WATER METER KEEPS TICKING Is the water meter ticking continuously even if no water is being used inside or outside the home? This is another warning sign that there is a leak. 3. MOLD & MILDEW These damp stains can give rise to mould and the resulting musty smells. If there is a musty smell in the house, regardless of how often you clean, it is possible that there is a leak in the pipe. 4. CRACKS IN THE FOUNDAT

UNDERSTANDING ELECTRICAL NOISE

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 Electrical noise is one of the most misdiagnosed and misunderstood electrical system problems.  What is electrical noise? This generic name can refer to various electrical system problems. Simply put, electrical noise is unexpected and random voltage variations. These variations can be potentially harmful to electrical circuits. All electrical systems experience disturbances as a natural phenomenon. The most important aspect of understanding electrical noise is decoding each sound. Recognising when it is alarming and reducing it is essential to prevent electrical faults . Noise coupling mechanisms There are four essential noise coupling mechanisms: Capacitive coupling: A voltage-based effect of electrostatic noise, such as lightning discharges. Inductive coupling: A current-based magnetic coupling noise. Conducted noise: A noise coupled by a galvanic connection, such as circuits with shared conductors. RFI or radio-frequency interference: This is where lengths of wire behave like tran