Plumbing System

All the information you need about your home’s plumbing system including toilets, water heaters, softeners and conditioners.

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How To Fix Kinks in PEX Pipes

Got a plumbing job ahead? PEX pipes make things easier, and learning the various ways to fix kinks is a great skill to have.

What To Know About PEX Pipe Connections

Have a plumbing job coming up? PEX pipe is well worth considering, and learning how PEX connections work is the...


10 Ways to Filter Water

Whether for an emergency kit, a home system or an on-the-go solution, here are the easiest and best ways to...


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7 Types of Water Shutoff Valves

A plumbing system needs a main shutoff valve as well as valves for branch lines and fixtures. Here's a rundown...


These New Septic Tank Treatment Pods from Active Ensure Your System Runs in Tip-Top Shape

Just drop a septic tank treatment pod in the toilet and flush for all the benefits!

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How Do Septic Tanks Work?

Just knowing the ins and outs of a septic system can save you a lot of money in the long...


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Homeowner’s Guide to Sump Pump Battery Backups

A sump pump installation should include a backup system for breakdowns and power outages. Learn the pros and cons of...

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Septic Tank vs. Holding Tank: What to Know About Each

A rural home or cabin isn't connected to a municipal wastewater system, so it needs a septic or holding tank....


This Highly Rated At-Home Sauna Is 50% Off

Turn any bathroom or porch into a spa with the easy-to-install Almost Heaven sauna—it's on sale!


5 Best Shower Filters for Healthy Skin and Hair, Personally Tested by Our Editor

The best shower filter can improve your skin, hair and nails by upgrading your home’s water quality. Go...


See What’s Really in Your Tap or Well with the Varify Water Test Kit

Is your water safe? Testing your water at home is as easy as dunking a test strip.

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What To Know About Grey Water

Conserve water and save money while helping your landscaping thrive. Here's what to know about grey water systems.


Best Tankless Water Heater for On-Demand Hot Water

If you want a constant supply of hot water while saving money on your energy bill, the best tankless water...


We Review the Best Filtered Shower Head for 2023-24 – Is it Worth Buying?

A shower filter could improve your skin and hair texture immediately. Let's put this affordable (and popular) option...


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How To Keep Above-Ground Water Systems from Freezing

If your home or cabin has an above-ground water system, freezing is a serious risk. Here's how I keep my...


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How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Water heaters don't last as long as most people think. Learn the telltale signs that you're due for a new...

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How To Install a Sump Pump

Flooding can ruin your basement and everything in it, but there's a solution. Learn how to install a sump pump...


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How To Clean a Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are great, but mineral buildup can kill their efficiency fast. Here's how to clean a tankless water...


How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?

Sump pumps reliably last from seven to 10 years, but often much longer with maintenance. Be sure to monitor your...


How To Test Sump Pumps

Don't be surprised by a sump pump failure. Here's an easy tutorial on how to test your sump pump to...


How Much Is a Sump Pump?

By itself, a sump pump isn't a major investment, costing about as much as a good juicer. The bulk of...


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A Guide To Pipe Fittings and How To Use Them

If you're doing a plumbing installation or repair, you'll need to buy pipe and pipe fittings. Here's some help figuring...


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Here’s How to Keep Pipes From Freezing This Winter

Preventing frozen pipes is easy. Repairing the damage from frozen pipes that burst is not.


Guide To Under Sink Water Heaters

Tired of wasting water while you're waiting for it to get hot? Waste no more by installing a tank-style or...


Guide To Water Storage Tanks

Water storage tanks are the backbone of a well pump system. They can be metal or plastic, pressurized or not,...

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Homeowner’s Guide To Well Water Testing

How to initiate well water testing, what contaminants to test for and other safety tips.


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Homeowner’s Guide To Irrigation Systems

You can irrigate your lawn or garden with an automated sprinkler or drip system. Sprinklers irrigate more widely, but they...


What Is a Cistern Water System?

Has your interest in alternative water systems made you ask, what is a cistern? Read on to learn about this...


8 Best Well Water Testing Kits

A DIY well water test kit helps ensure your home's water is safe. Here are our favorites.


10 Well Water Filtration Systems for Contaminant-Free, Better-Tasting Water

A well water filtration system provides safe, drinkable water that's free of contamination.


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What Is a P-Trap?

Curious about P-traps, how they function and what to look for when you buy one? Here's what you need to...