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train · 95.7k rows

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Unable to remove a cross-threaded water hose I am unable to remove my outdoor hose from the spigot faucet and think it may be cross-threaded. I am using a pipe wrench but the entire fitting just keeps turning. Do I need a plumber to remove it? ** IMPORTANT UPDATE:In order to prevent a DIY disaster, I had a plumber co...	It is very possible that you damaged the threads of your hose fitting by trying to unscrew this device without removing the set screw.
Freeze prevention in garage My garage is below a heated room, and there are heating pipes running through the garage to heat that room. In the recent incredibly cold spell in New England, one of those pipes froze and burst. I have lived in this house for 30 years, and this is the first time I've had a problem; now I ha...	I think the quick and easy fix is to go the electric heater route in the garage, which would give you independent control over that room, so if the rest of the house heat is turned down, the pipes in your garage won't freeze.
Is it normal for my boiler transformer to show intermittent drops in voltage? Since I installed a Nest-E I've seen my Weil-McLain boiler cut power to the R-wire and C-wire intermittently. Voltage drops to nearly 0 and the Nest-E errors with E-195 no power. Other times thermostat works fine to control heat. I'm tryin...	The transformer typically will either work or will not.
Rotating fitting for copper/steampunk faucet? I'm trying to build an exposed copper (think steampunk) kitchen faucet. Everything is easy except the ability to rotate the faucet side to side, like to reach the left sink or right sink. See the image below. This one does not rotate left and right. How could one make it r...	Probably the most common "water" swivel in most hardware stores would the quick-disconnect fittings typically used for portable dishwashers or washing machines.
Leaking threaded connection to shower valve I have a threaded joint to a shower valve that has a small leak. I used teflon tape, however the joint isn't fully sealed. Ive read on the proper technique and such so I'm not looking for how to do it better. Any suggestions/advice on the fix. Ide rather not remove the valve ...	I'm suggesting removing one or all of the threaded connections and just sweating the copper directly to the valve, thus eliminating the threads from ever leaking (since you're not using them.) For Teflon tape, they make some varieties that are 'extra thick', which help compress to fill the gaps.
multi light 1 switch each, and one switch for the all light in my garden i have 6 lights each one have a switch, last week i connect all the lights to one switch so all the 6 lights will turn on with one switch, but some time i don't need all the 6 lights on, and other time i want them all on. so, is there a way to hav...	You could use a digital switch that can handle 'scenes', which is to say it can be programmed to turn on or off (or dim)
2-prong cord but 3-prong outlet I received a new Insignia Voice Speaker for work. It has a 2-prong cord, but all of my office outlets are 3-prong. I'm not finding a converter for this arrangement. Is it safe to plug the cord in as is? <Q> As already pointed out, yes you can. <S> But maybe understanding the why will ...	These are specifically designed to accept NEMA 1-15, 5-15 and 5-20 plugs. "The idea behind grounding is to protect the people who use metal-encased appliances from electric shock.
How to connect LED tape strips in separate locations to one power source? We're looking into running LED Tape Lights under the wall cabinets in our kitchen. We have three sections that would get the lights and we need them all powered by a single switch. There is a switch that goes up into the attic in the middle of ...	Just be sure that the power supply is matched to your wiring, and large enough for the load. You got nothing much to worry about electrical insulation safety for DC system but be sure the wiring won't be wet by possible water sipping from above.
Can chipboard shelves be varnished? Note: including a lot of details to avoid XY problem. Background I have been dealing with a minor pest (psocids, in case you're wondering, but I don't want the conversation to become about that), mainly in a kitchen cupboard and the surrounding area. I've already taken a few appropr...	The safest option would probably be to look for a varnish that specifically says it's suitable for chipboard.
How do i stop office chair sound when leaning back? I have an office chair, which has a leaning mechanism that can be tightend and loosend as per requirement. But the problem is, whenever i lean backwards, and then come forward, the mechanism makes a krrrrr sound in the forward journey. I found out the sound comes from...	Lock Ease is an amazing product. Get some dry silicone lubricant (whichever brand you fancy), and find a way to spray it into the spring housing.
How can I put a picture frame on the floor I'm putting some picture frames in a photographer's studio. I will hang some of these frames in the wall, but I would like to have some of these on the floor, this way: The problem is: there's some wind circulating in there, and the frames keep falling. I also want to be able...	What I would do is buy a type of rod that can be glued on the inside along the wooden frame but only glue them on the bottom and possibly the lower half or entire length of the inner sides.
Can I add an outlet for electronics to a lighting circuit? I'd like to install some speakers in my ceilings and I'm looking to run them with a Chromecast plugged into an amplifier. Would it be possible, legal and safe to get the power from the lighting circuit already in the ceiling? Also, any tips on how I should go ...	Other possibilities are the supply is taken to the switch and the switched hot neutral and ground feed the lights, in this case the outlet will only be hot when the lights are on.
Can I put small nails through plexiglass? I would like to attach a 1/8" thick piece of plexiglass to the front of a bookcase. (It will be open at the top and will be used to house a hamster, so no hinges are needed.) Can I use small nails? Should I drill a very fine pilot hole? If the nail idea is no good, then sho...	Drill bits tend to walk on plastic, so you may want to put a piece of masking tape over each area to be drilled, which will give a bit of grip to avoid the slide.
How to replace vent tee under kitchen sink My garbage disposal empties into a trap. Before the trap, my other sink drain joins with a vent tee. I am assuming this in incorrect. Occasionally, the trap does not empty fast enough and water + food climbs up into the horizontal run of pipe, causing it to clog. I am also ass...	I don't think replacing that Tee with a Sanitary Tee is going to make any difference without redesigning the whole drain system. The vent tee does in fact have a baffle in the inside of it.
Is there a reason I should NOT install a ceiling fan in my kitchen? We need to install a new ceiling light in the kitchen. We do not have any kind of exhaust fan in the kitchen, and it would be nice to be able to move the air around on the occasion that something gets burned/overcooked. Additionally, the room is very c...	It can be done, but the fan blades will need cleaned more often from any smoke/oil/residue from cooking in the kitchen as compared to elsewhere in the house.
Alternatives to circular saw for cutting 2x6 wood? I need to make straight cuts to several 2x6" pieces of wood and I don't have a circular saw. I was checking several stores and a decent circular saw costs over $70. What alternatives do I have for clean straight cuts of 2x6 pieces of treated lumber? It doesn't have to...	If you can borrow a circular saw, that will probably be best.
How should I go about a partial (bottom 1/5) exterior wall stud replacement? I tried searching for this answer but only found one other question that seemed relevant, but doesn't exactly answer my question. My water heater blew while I was on vacation. I didn't have insurance on my home at the time due to a lapse th...	Marking Peter's answer as correct, as for most people tearing out the extra drywall and sistering in a stud is the correct thing to do.
Light to turn on for every second switching I have a very modifiable simple fixture with two E14 sockets. I want to modify the wiring of one so that it only gets current when the switch is turned on an even number of times. I will put a strong LED bulb in this socket, and a weaker in the other. Is there a simple, inex...	If not, Philips sells a series of LED bulbs which dim between high-medium-nightlight simply by flicking the switch on and off.
Is MDF a reliable product for interior trimwork? We are debating whether to use MDF or real wood for interior trim around doors and windows. We're told that the MDF is easier to work with ~ no sanding and possibly cheaper. However, we have gotten mixed reviews from several people, some saying the MDF can warp and dent...	Mdf is a fair product for the price. I always advise clients to choose real wood if the budget allows.
How to fix old un-suppported basement wall in house that has had added basement? I have an older house (circa 1919) that was built without a basement (just a crawl space). About 1965 a basement was added. Along one of the old concrete foundation walls there is a 7 foot section that has nothing under the bottom of the ...	Given that a new basement was poured there is a 99% chance that they pushed those walls up to provide load support to the entire house.
Is it safe to keep using this 30amp safety breaker for water heater? First of all this is the technical data written on the heater: I've been using the following connection for my water heater for 2 years before the switch key got molten as shown in the following two pictures ( The heater was always left in the socket...	30A for a 1500W appliance is too big (In this case is your boiler that 'protects' the braker), just go for a T7A (slow-blow fuse), water heater is a resistive load and doesn't have a big start up overcurrent. It is also possible that this switch-breaker does something special, like provide GFCI/RCD protection.
Drilling a hole from both sides of the wall I need to drill a through hole in a brick wall. Is there a method to start from both sides of the wall and meet in the wall? I wish to do this because: The wall is slightly thicker than the length of my drill bit. (Of course I could just go and by a longer bit.) I want to...	Start with a small bit and measure from the same brick to get the center on both sides then drill in, starting with a smaller bit and good measurements I usually connect but am slightly angled (I guess I never hold the bit quite square) now that the 2 holes are connected open up with the correct size bit. That way you ...
Dip in Driveway causing car to bottom out - How to bridge the gap? New townhome has a steep driveway that leads into a ramp up into the garage. Cars are bottoming out as the wheels go into the dip. Looking for advice on the best way to fill or bridge this gap in order to get cars into the garage. <Q> My suggestion woul...	Fill the depression with large washed rock (2" screen should do). It looks like the dip is there for drainage, so you can't fill it in - otherwise water from the street would flood your garage every time it rained!
Does new drywall need 2 coats of primer Do I need 2 coats of primer on new drywall? Homeowner is using primer/paint on finish coat. Will the primer/paint suffice, instead of 2nd coat of primer? This is for all new surface. walls, ceilings & trim. <Q> It really depends on the results you get after the first coat. <S...	New drywall is pretty porous (it will absorb more of the paint than a previously painted wall would) and primer helps fill that in before you paint.
Line Voltage Dropping when Microwave runs When I turn on the built-in Microwave in a 3 years old house it starts and then in 2-3 sounds the changes and it is apparent that something is wrong. The microwave does not heat.Then I noticed that the gas range electronic display was turning on and off when the microwave was t...	And with a house of that age, it may have had some unauthorized wiring done at some time, too, which may be adding to the problems you are experiencing. In any case, it certainly bears investigation and a checkup by somebody who knows what they are doing.
How to make my cheap but well sanded wood look glossy I built a few wooden thing with cheap pine and plywood. They are working very fine. I like to make them look glossy. I expect there are thick varnish products that can do the job. So my cheap woods look shiny with proper stain and varnish. However, I tried the fo...	If you're really trying to get away with only one coat, you need Pattern Coating .
Is this stuff in my furnace toxic? I am in the process of removing an old coal furnace. after removing the natural gas conversion kit I now see some type of loose filler or insulation which was present around the conversion kit pipe. There is also a substance that looks like joint compound which was used to adhere th...	It is possible that there was an asbestos vein in the ground where the vermiculite was mined.
How to Cover Giant Sewer Vent Does anyone have a creative/safe way to hide this hideous sewer vent and manhole? Thanks in advance! <Q> That concrete riser really should be buried, ideally. <S> Disguising the pipe (and the riser if you don't bury it) has many possible methods, starting at the low end with painting it, ...	I concur that the majority of the cemented portion showing would generally be buried, check the age of the septic- Presumably you don't want tree roots right there, but some artificial foliage might help, or some annual vines trained on strings. So give the idea of dumping a lot of dirt there some serious thought. Goin...
How can I finish off a three gang switch with one switch missing? I removed one switch from a three gang switchbox. I simply don't need it. All the wires to that switch have been trimmed and taped off and the same at the opposite end of those wires. Now, what can I do to finish off the outside of that switch? The sim...	Removing and replacing the box with a two gang would involve drywall or plaster repair. Leviton (and I am pretty sure LaGrand) make sectional wall plates including blank sections. Plastering over the now empty part of the box would probably not pass inspection and is just not a best-practice way to fix this.
what to mount my generator on I recently purchased a portable closed hyundai electric generator for home use, 6,3 kva, 8000se, diesel. The generator is on wheels. I have put it in a well ventilated storage shed more than 15 feet from my house. The shed has a concrete floor covered with tiles. What material do you re...	Unless your floor is easily damaged (and it shouldn't be, it's in a shed), just park it directly on the floor. Maybe try a piece of cardboard and swap it out from time to time, as you take the generator in and out for its periodic exercise.
Lights will not come on after taking out wall outlet OK.. I noticed smoke coming from my bedroom wall outlet.... I went outside turned off what I thought was the breaker to that room.... Come to find out that breaker had already switched itself off... Anyway I go and take the electrical outlet out and notice that the ...	If you don't, the breaker will just trip again (best case), or the wires will heat up again and cause a fire, burning the house down (worst case). Your breaker did its job by tripping, but you should not turn the breaker back on until you have corrected the cause of the overcurrent. Given your lack of experience with t...
No pilot light on gas oven? I have a Magic Chef in-wall oven, stove is separate by the way. The oven is gas. I was told it has no pilot light by some "help" person on another site. Is there a pilot light on all gas ovens? If so, where is it? Afraid to turn on knob to light along with a match. lol <Q> According to on...	For an oven (not a stove top) one should NOT have to press any button to get anything to ignite - the thermostat and circuitry will take care of that for you, provided everything is intact and working.
How to determine the sizes/arrangements of supply pipes? I'm going to replace my rusted-out iron pipes with copper. The plumbing is exposed in the basement so I'm not forced to use the existing design. I'm trying to figure out when I can run fixtures in series off of a main pipe, and when I should use parallel pipes. (...	Usually if you have multiple users from the same line, that line should be bigger in order to avoid unbalancing EG: you have a toilet a sink and a shower, you should run 3/4 pipe across all and connect each user with a 1/2 manifold
Is a ballast required, or merely acceptable, for this Philips InstantFit LED tube? Rather than replace a dead ballast in a fluorescent fixture, I've decided to simply bypass and move to LEDs. However, I think I may have grabbed the wrong kind of replacement tubes the other day in Home Depot. They are in the Philips "In...	I can confirm Phillips InstantFit work with ONLY specific ballasts and do not work without ballasts.
How do you find helpers for larger DIY projects? Question : In cases where you have the time and skills to do a project yourself, but physically cannot without a second skilled person to help, how do you go about finding and hiring someone that is willing to work with you? Example : I'm planning to build a detached ...	There are many trade schools in my area that are willing to "hire out" students.
How can I hide or dress up a large wall of debris? We have a large "debris wall," made up of stumps, tree trunks, and other leftovers from when our lot was cleared, to one side of our driveway. We considered having it removed, but it provides a privacy barrier between us and our neighbor. If we removed it, that would...	Bury the mess in manure (horse is often easiest, but check your local sources) and the wood will rot down, while it will be easy to grow anything on top
Why does my light box have 2 cables for this one switch? Took down a ceiling fixture and discovered what looks like a possible switch loop, except I don’t understand how the connection gets completed with the current set up. Basically, 2 lines coming into the fixture box. The black from line A is wired to the fixture, ...	One cable should have the hot and neutral the other goes to the switch connect the hot to the white going to the switch the black coming back from the switch to the black of the light fixture, white to white and connect the grounds together. This was the code compliant way to wire switch legs a few years back, now the ...
Easiest way to dig trench along existing fence My friend cannot currently allow his dogs in his backyard because they dig under his privacy fence. I wanted to fix it for him and just planned on digging a trench (8-10inches deep, 6-8inches wide) and burying chicken wire. Then covering the chicken wire in gravel. Cost ...	There are narrow trenching shovels that are handy for cleaning up the trench after excavating. The dogs will dig at first and the chicken wire might damage their paws.
How do I seal my bedroom door for soundproofing/reduction? I have a hollow bedroom door in my apartment. I can’t make any modifications to the door that are permanent—nor can I replace it. Anyone outside the room can hear an interior conversation with crystal clarity. There are gaps (especially a massive one at the b...	Screw it to the bottom of the door, and when you remove it nobody will see the screw holes since they're on the bottom of the door. suggest the "rolled up towel" or "draft snake" (long narrow sandbag) approach when you actually need sound isolation, and removing it when the lack of ventilation becomes a problem.
Can I switch this outlet for a USB outlet? Does anyone know what kind of outlet is this one: ...and can I safely swap it with this one? Or is there anything power concerns that I should be aware of?? <Q> Your existing outlet (NEMA 6-20) is used for 240 volts while your USB/outlet (5-15) is designed for 120 volts. <S...	The only places with US plugs and 240 are Japan and Columbia, so if you can find a combo USB outlet for those places it should work without rewiring or using bulky adapters. It's the same wire you use to hook up normal receptacles.
How can I tell which wire to connect to a bayonett lamp connector? I have a white bayonet lamp connector that has no markings to show where to connect the brown and blue wires. Any suggestions? thanks. <Q> Wouldn't matter. <A> If it's bayonet in my understanding of the word, and it certainly looks like it is, since t...	Either wire to either side will complete the circuit once the bulb is in place. Blue is neutral and is designed to have a voltage near earth.
Do I need to reuse these radiator connectors, or should I get new ones? I have finally got around to removing an old damaged Stelrad radiator - I have an identical one waiting to go on the wall but despite using a fair amount of force, the connectors don't appear to want to come off. Looking inside them, the olive seem...	I vote to replace everything.
How should I remove corrosion like this from radiator connections In the process of replacing a radiator and there is a fair amount of corrosion around the connections. I plan on scrubbing as much off as I can with sandpaper or steel wool, but is there a recommended way to clear corrosion here? Or does it even mat...	If the tapered area is rough or deteriorated in any way, you could coat the tapered area with a thin coating of RTV silicone and tighten the union nut.
Do old fluorescent light bulbs use less electricity? I've read that old fluorescent light bulbs produce less light over time. Do they also use less electricity, or do they use the same amount, but produce more heat? <Q> All lamp manufactures have the lamp curves, as the lamps are started it damages them a little and w...	I don't have before/after measurements on like bulbs, but i know that old ones (even if completely dark) still use power, unlike a tungsten filament.
Which kind of locks should be installed on external wooden glass panel doors? When you have an external glass panel door it may be simple for a criminal to break a pane of glass to access the handle and lock inside. What types of locks are appropriate to install on a door of this type? I think a deadbolt of some typ...	Install a double-keyed deadbolt if you're worried about someone breaking the glass and reaching in to unlock the door from the inside.
What are these connectors on UK plug socket internal wiring? My friend is renovating an old house in the UK. I was interested to notice that all of the (removed) mains sockets had these plastic terminals on the ends of the wiring coming out of the wall. I've never seen these before - I would have expected bare wires,...	These are a type of splice that in your case was a safe way to terminate the wire in the bottom photo.
71 gallon water heater doesn't maintain hot water Hoping someone can give me some thoughts on what might be going on here so I can be a bit more informed when I call a plumber. Situation is, we got our water heater replaced a few years back and ever since this has been an issue. It's more noticeable when it's cold out...	It's unlikely for a newer heater, but an older one may be full of sediment, reducing its effective capacity.
Sometimes need to tap sump pump for it to turn on. Common causes? I am an amateur, so ask all the stupid questions you need to. I have a submersible sump pump in my basement. It mostly works; however, from time to time, I have to tap the switch housing (I don't know what else to call it. I mean the little box that app...	The first is corrosion and dirt buildup limiting float travel so the foot sticks and the contacts are open until tapped.
Difference between angle grinder and circular saw From what I've read on google, angle grinders and (portable) circular saws appear to be quite similar. Aside from a circular saw being perhaps a bit larger and maybe having some supports on the bottom, is there any major difference between an angle grinder and a circula...	They're all spinning blades, but when you say "circular" most think of a "handheld" circular saw usually used for cutting wood. "Angle grinder" is referring to a specific tool.
Can I convert galvanized ducts to wood stove black ducts by coating it with high temp RustOleum paint? I compared the black ducting for wood stoves with regular galvanized ducting and found that they are both 24 gauge and I noticed they are both steel since both tug magnets. There is quite a large price difference in ...	You cannot use HVAC ducting for a wood fireplace or stove exhaust.
Connect 4" Dryer Vent Duct to 4" Exhaust Pipe I just had a new dryer installed. The installer said I needed to buy a pipe reducer because the dryer vent duct and the exhaust pipe are both 4". He cut some holes in the dryer vent duct to fan it out and taped around it but said it will leak air and lint until a reducer i...	It would be best if the flexible pipe was reduced in the same way, then the air would flow over the joint the proper way. Measure the outside diameters of both pipes and head into the store. It's relatively easy to fix this from the dryer to the wall
Can I have dimmable LEDs in a corded lamp? For a couple of bedside/reading lamps I want to use LEDs, but even the dimmest bulbs I've seen in the shops are about 250lm and still too bright for the purpose. So I've come to consider a dimmer. The lamps are corded with the sockets well out of reach, so I'd like to install...	Speaking for US products, personally, I have a Cree bulb running on a Lutron C*L (designed for CFL/LED compatibility) plug-in dimmer just fine.
Wiring toggle switch (on/off/on) to PIR motion sensor and led strip I would like to set this up so the first on position goes through the motion sensor and the second on position would be for just turning the led strip light on and bypass the motion sensor. When I set this up the motion doesn’t work. Both on’s create a...	If you can confirm that one of those wires is bridged inside the PIR, you can nut them all together, eliminate one of them to the PIR (redundant) and use a single-pole (SPDT) switch. The led will fire up when in that position and the motion sensor will light the led in that position. PIRs often need to "get a sense of ...
Should gaps be left between sheets of drywall for any reason? My cousin says I should leave 1/4" space between all edges of drywall so that mud can be pressed into it. Everything I've read online say to butt them tight. When is leaving a gap a good idea? <Q> It really doesn't matter, I would run them tight, it uses les...	You can (and should) squeeze drywall mud into pretty small cracks. It is better to run drywall tight into the corners, it makes taping easier than having a gap. There's no reason to engineer gaps between sheets. Like the other answerer, Jack, I've never seen drywall in any residential or commercial installation intenti...
How can I store a paint roller for a second coat? It's my first time using paint rollers, and I have a problem. How do I store a paint roller cover for 2 hours so that I can use it for a second coat? <Q> Wrap the roller in aluminium foil. <S> Or in cling film. <S> I've stored rollers this way for 2 weeks, though you do...	I simply load the roller (to keep it moist), lay it in my tray, along with the brush, and wrap it with a kitchen trash bag.
Why did concrete screws feel loose when installed in a brick wall? I am trying to secure a floating mantle shelf over a brick fireplace wall. I used 2 3/4" 3/16 tapcon screws to secure the strip of wood to a brick wall but the wood strip did not hold securely The tapcon 3/16" screws called for a 5/32 mortar bit hol...	For something as substantial as a mantle, I would not use simple Tapcons.
Installing Tile on a painted wall with satin finish I am redoing out laundry room and would like to put tile on a wall that is already painted. The paint is a satin finish and is in good condition as it is only 2 yrs old. Is it ok to just spread the adhesive and install directly on the painted wall? Or should I do som...	The safest way to do that is to apply a scratch coat first, using whatever mortar or mastic youll be using to install the tile.
Leveling out a basement floor So I am in the process of finishing out my basement. I am going to start by first building my office, and later doing the rest of the basement. My basement is divided in half, and I have the typical metal floor to support beam jacks running down the middle. The floor also slopes towards th...	First be sure to dress and properly prime the area. I think you should just leave the floor slope as is.
Is there any reason testing the neutral line on a dimmer light socket wouldn't work? I am repairing a vintage lamp and replacing the socket with a dimmer socket. When I do a continuity test on the old socket, both the hot and neutral lines work. That is, they make a high-pitch noise telling me the circuit is closed. ...	I am a little concerned that the dimmer is on the neutral side. This is a semiconductor switch which can vary the amount of the mains waveform getting through. The continuity tester tests continuity , at the risk of stating the obvious. You should have continuity to the neutral wire on the plug to the threaded base and...
How to repair rotted sill plate on foundation concrete pony wall and adding height to concrete wall I have an end unit townhouse built in 1986. It's three stories including the garage level, and it's built on a slope. The garage level opens to the street in the back, but that level is below grade on the opposite side (...	If you really want to prevent the studs from rotting, then add a double/triple/quadruple treated sill plate. In a 3 story I would not want to try patch work on cement foundation without an engineering stamp of approval.
Is a duplex receptacle counted as one or two outlets for branch calculations? When counting receptacles or outlets for a branch circuit (where the limit is typically 10 or 12 outlets), does a typical duplex receptacle count as one or two? It seems that they each count as two, but I'm having trouble finding something th...	If there is one outlet, two outlets (most common) or 3 outlets it is still counted as 180 VA.
How can I tell if this is a split bus panel with no main breaker? Looking for the main shut off or to confirm this is a split bus. Thanks! <Q> With the dead front off I can see the wires that go from the lower right hand one of the four 2-pole breakers at the top to the lower bus. <S> In your panel it looks to me like ...	In my panel the lower right 2-pole breaker is a 60-A breaker which feeds the lower bus for all the 1-pole breakers below. The arrangement of the breakers looks like my 50-year-old GE split bus panel.
Back up sump pump not working I installed a backup sump pump following the instructions. The backup pump will turn on but does not eject any water from the pit, the water only swirls around. The pipes aren't clogged: the main pump works great and it is new pipe on the backup. I tried drilling a hole in the p...	It is either missing or not operating correctly. The water being discharged by the backup pump is draining out the inlet of the primary pump.
60A two pole breaker supplying a sub panel (220v) - how many amps for separate 110v legs? I'm trying to wrap my mind around how many amps 220V wire (two hot poles) can supply, when it's effectively supplying a multi wire branch circuit (sub panel)... My question is this:if the sub panel is supplied by a single 60 amp ...	As to the use of single pole breakers for a multiwire branch circuit, that is a code violation unless the breakers are tied together with a handle tie from the manufacturer.
How do I measure the thickness of something with a lip or frame? I'm looking for a device like vernier calipers (ie 0.1mm resolution or thereabouts is fine), but in more of a C-clamp configuration which allows me to measure the thickness of some object's face where there is a thicker frame, lip or ridge around the outs...	My favourite was these homemade calipers found here . There are double-ended calipers which have the same gap at both ends, allowing you to measure the accessible end while set on the thing you are measuring.
Stopping a standing desks from rocking I just finished making a standing desk, the top board is 4x2 feet and is about 45 inches high. I am having a problem with the desk rocking back and forth. Here is a picture of it: As you can see at the bottom of the left leg there is a 2x4 (there is another one on the right side,...	You could skirt that problem by using spiked feet like some loudspeakers of yore had, where they penetrated through the carpeting to solid subfloor, but that may not be practical. The primary trouble is that you've taken the tried and true four-leg table design and turned it into essentially a two-leg design.
Electrical dimmer switches for 4 switch locations? I have a bank of 6 - LED 18watt (dimmable) bulbs and this bank has 4 switch locations. Is it possible to dim this bank? I don't see any 5 way dimmer switches offered. Thanks. <Q> There's more than one option! <S> As ThreePhaseEel points out, Multi-location dimmi...	However, depending on usage, specifically the case where the lights will mostly always dimmed at the same level or just having the dimming capability at one location with the existing switch still in operation at the other 3 locations.
Dryer being on of off effects other appliances, and has no heat Dryer is new, uses 3 prong outlet from old dryer. been working for over a month. Now, the motor works but no heat. However, the real puzzle is that when I turn it off, the oven, the fridge, the ceiling fan and outlet in the kitchen shut off, as do the ligh...	If this is only an issue on 1 circuit or possibly a multi wire branch circuit the neutral is probably open , if there are multiple circuits that have the issue call the power company, turn off, unplug devices or they may get fried. Your power is literally out.
Washing Machine Fills with water, then drains We have a front loading GE washing machine model GFWN1000. Recently, when running any of the wash cycles, it will fill with water like normal and then go ahead and drain without doing any washing. I tested the spin functionality, and it works fine on a drain and spin cycle...	Either the controller is simply malfunctioning or another issue has tripped an error code in the control Unit.
Why does the riser go before tread when installing hardwood on stairs? I want to install prefinished hardwood on my stairs and I have no difficulty with the process.Every diagram I find online installs the riser first and then butts the tread to the riser. It seems to me that I could hide the cut edges by installing t...	Putting in all the risers first runs the risk of there being slight gaps or the tread not seating down all the way if the riser is too high.
Cutting off electrical supply to replace consumer unit I have a 1946-built semidetached house in the UK, which has a standard 10-way consumer unit installed. Now, after having a new extension built, I need to replace it with another CU (10-way isn't enough any more; plus the old one doesn't satisfy changed regulations)...	You'll need to ask your utility to cut the power service to the building temporarily.
How to wire two light switches, two lights, and one duct exhaust fan so lights work independently but fan works on either switch? How do you wire two separate bathrooms in order to have the bathroom lights work independently while being able to turn on the single inline duct fan?I have two bathrooms. The bathroom vents...	So instead, wire it with simple switches so that if the switch in either bath is on, the fan is on. Note that this solution already contemplates the issue of the ligths/fan not all being on the same circuit.
What are the IRC requirments for bracing/blocking in a load-bearing 2x6 stud wall that is 12' high? When building an exterior load bearing wall 12' high, using 2x6's, is there horizontal blocking/bracing required between the studs? If so, what are the requirements for that? ie. how many per cavity, do they stand on end...	Fire blocking is required in 1) horizontal and vertical framing spaces, like stud spaces and furred spaces at 10’, 2) intersection of walls and floors, 3) intersection of walls and attics, 4) top and bottom of stairs, and 5) at cornices. Besides the blocking it is often a worthwhile idea to add triangular bracing to ex...
Does the NEC allow splices inside a load center (main circuit breaker panel)? I have built a detached garage which will have a 125A subpanel. (125A panel because it will double as a work shop with A/C and heat and power equipment). Power will brought in from the house load meter panel which only has 12 spaces which are...	Another way is to add a gutter and use that if the location of the panel is moved, code requires the splices to be in an approved or listed box that is accessible the panel is appropriate but sometimes with older panels there is not enough room to do it in a neat and workmanship manner
Why is my water heater's relief valve popping? I haven't seen it, but there is water on the floor and also on top of a hose that is rolled up next to the water heater. It is a A.O.Smith electric ECS 40 200. Both upper and lower thermostats are set to 120°, but water temp from the tap is 149° and jumps back and forth t...	Another cause may be your expansion thank, it may have to be charged or replaced (to recharge, hot water lines have to be de-pressurized).
How to change dishwasher embedded in wood floor? I had a bad leak under my dishwasher, and it looks like the parts will be a fairly substantial cost, and I'd like to upgrade to a quieter model. However a wood floor was installed after the dishwasher and has effectively locked it into place (see photos). The adjustin...	This was part of doing a proper flooring job, and someone didn't. For the middle section even a small-diameter circular saw might work, but you need to get fussy to cut the ends, so don't go buy one if you don't have one, as the tools you'll do the ends with can do the whole thing with only moderate perseverance.
Adding the Sense electricity monitor to my breaker box I want to install the Sense electricity monitor to my breaker box to monitor my home's power usage. The instructions call for installation on a 240v breaker inside my electrical panel. Here is a link to the installation video as well as a direct link to the sec...	Take out any two adjacent breakers (utility room receptacles and central vacuum are good choices) and install the tandem breakers.
Will a TV antenna pre-amp reduce channel dropout? Two weeks ago I installed an antenna in my attic (GE 33692) in order to receive stations that are approximately 45 miles away. Things worked fine in clear weather, light rain and moderate snowfall but one morning there was dense fog and signal levels were lower across ...	An amp could help reduce that loss between the antenna and the TV.
240V/60A circuit in PVC on the ground This home has a PVC pipe running from outside the garage, to a pool+spa setup. The electrical circuit seems to be carrying 240V/60A - (primarily for the water heater). It runs on the ground beside a concrete slab for about 20feet and then it runs along the fence for 100 ft, ON th...	It would be best to watch your wire and conduit lengths very closely and make sure a junction box is where it needs to be for any splice which may be required. The depth for PVC can be reduced to 12" with a 2" thick concrete cap (but it's easier to just dig down 6 more inches). Schedule 80 pipe can be connected to stru...
LED lamp keeps glowing when dimmer is turned off (I know this question has been asked before ( here ), but I followed the advice recommended by the users in that thread to help remedy the problem, but the lights still glow.) I recently bought dimmable LEDs for my house, and I've noticed that the lights glow a little b...	You might want to check if you have Receptacles on the same circuit with lamps plugged in you may have reverse polarity at the receptacle.
\What is the best way to frame a box? I want to create a box. I am using a lap joint for the top and bottom frame. For the vertical sides I need help. The pictures show the two ideas I had. But there must be a better way to attach the vertical pieces instead of being inside or outside like I have drawn them. Ideall...	It's far less work to not bother with the lap joints and just tie the sides directly into vertical posts like this:
How can I make these semi-gloss paint patches blend with the wall? I recently tried to fix a number of small holes in a wall that is painted with brown semi-gloss paint. Unfortunately, the paint patches are still very obvious, even after several days of drying: Notice that the color itself matches quite well - what ...	Since you have the original paint and it appears to be good, I would get a roller and work the entire area with a 2nd coat, I would work from the patches out
Laundry dryer's thermal fuse keeps blowing off every few months. What could be the cause? Here is what I have done for my 10 year old LG dryer that resides outdoors: checked the exhaust pipe and there was good air flow with no lint stuck in it. checked for continuity between heating element's housing and the wires c...	Also, while you have the cover open, you can be sure to vacuum the vent and everything making sure there are not restrictions like others have mentioned. But I seem to recall that when mine went bad a few years ago I replaced that fuse along with the heater element.
How do you add a separate ground back to panel on 2 wire ungrounded outlet? This post mentions that it is now legal to add a separate wire to ground an outlet. What is the proper way to do this? Does the wire need to follow the same path as the ungrounded 2 wire path? How would the ground enter the junction box? How is...	As far as adding a ground wire you can tap another ground wire on any circuit that returns to the same service panel. These are the preferred methods of the trade but there are other acceptable ways.
What causes Voltage fluctuation in Panel I have a double pole 20 amp breaker in my main panel (no sub panels). and measuring the voltage it jumps between 118 and 121 on one side and 117 and 121 on the other. I thought it should be at 120V. why is it fluctuating so? Is this ok? <Q> It's fluctuating within spec, because ...	Within your house, you may see variation on the two (115-125V) legs due to more loads on one leg than the other (unbalanced) - but the overall voltage into the building also varies slightly.
How to identify a nut I have to replace a nut on an old sliding door that dates back at least 50 years. The nut fits a 7/16 spanner, but that's all I know about it. Unfortunately I can't take the nut off and take it to my local hardware shop because the door is in continual use and would have to be wedged in place when...	If there is not a removable bolt, temporarily remove the nut and measure the size and thread of the exposed portion of the "bolt".
Difficulty in driving a nail through with a nail setter I've been pulling the carpet up and getting the nails out from where the carpet tack strips were nailed to original wood flooring, but about a half dozen are now headless. I watched several tutorials on how to get them out, but one of the nails broke and is now fl...	If you use an grinding wheel (but an angle grinder or file should also work) to smooth out the rough surface of the nail, and keep an eye on the area while refinishing the floors. Steel isn't really that hard; they'll sand.
How to remove rusted screws? I have these rusted screws in my garage door. How do I remove them? I tried using pliers, a hammer, Water Displacement 40. Didn't come out. Here is another view from the inside: If someone has a tip regarding how to go about removing these two rusted screws, then please let me know. T...	I would start by sawing off any excess length of machine screw, the better to not have to remove rust from it. Sometimes you can use heat to help free up rusted/siezed parts like that.
How dangerous are these cracking tiles if they contain asbestos? See attached image. These tiles are in the common area of my apartment building. As you can see, there is significant cracking. My building was built in the 60's, I know that the 9-inch tiles in my apartment contain asbestos, and I suspect these 12-inc...	It depends on how dangerous you think asbestos is.
What rooms or loads require AFCI protection? Do I need AFCI for dedicated circuits like sump pumps, furnaces, microwave, refrigerator etc. <Q> Yes, you need AFCI protection <S> As of the 2017 NEC, AFCI protection has been extended to all 15 and 20A, 120V branch circuit outlets in all dwelling unit locations. <S> Th...	This includes dedicated appliances such as furnaces and dishwashers, and even smoke detector circuits. All 120-volt,single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices ... require AFCI protection.
light bulb burns out immediately or within 3-4 seconds I have 4 can lights operated by one switch.The light bulb went out.When I replaced it the new one, it went out immediately.This happened three times.I changed the can fixture and the same thing happened??The other three lights still are good. <Q> This can be caused...	If the replacement lamps are the correct voltage, but burning out immediately, this is likely due to a bad neutral connection .
Can the Distance of a Subpanel affect Outlet Tester Results I got help with wiring my cabin here: Requesting Evaluation of Power Plan at Rural Cabin and here: Cabin Wiring Plan Revisited I also put a follow up comment there, but now I'm not sure that was the right place to ask this, since others may have the same qu...	Even if the distances were outrageous, it should still ring out properly if the tester is the only load.
Use existing cat6 wiring in apartment for data We just moved into an apartment that has cat6 wiring, with 2 available jacks in 3 separate locations. There is a service box where cable comes in (I have cable internet) and a board that distributes cat6 cabling to all 3 locations. The board is a Suttle SAM-V8. My curren...	Depending on how the jacks are wired, you could terminate the cables the same way in this box and not have to change them. A cheap punch tool is OK if this is the only time you're going to use it, though the more expensive ones tend to be easier to use (as well as last longer). What you have here is a "voice distributi...
House and Shop on 100 AMP Service I'm looking at buying a home that only has a 100 AMP service. I would like to have a small woodworking shop in the basement, but am worried that this will be too much for the service. While upgrading the service wouldn't be very difficult, it is an older home so pulling a permit would ...	Unless you're running welders, large compressors or other big electric motors (5+ HP) you shouldn't have any trouble.
Central supports for bed I have an old Ikea bed with this kind of central supports: The problem is that these central supports are flimsy and tend to fall on the side, and I would like to find a way to secure them. For now, I put a pile of books below it, and it's still unsteady. The height of the supports is 23cm. ...	You can make your own adjustable supports from a 4 x 4 or a 2 x 4 or use what you have along with furniture levelers. The existing supports look to just be a piece of wood stood on end, and fastened into the rail running the length of the bed. An alternative may be to transfer more of the mattress + occupant weight to ...
Should I remove the drywall before building new walls against existing walls? I'm closing off a walk through to the kitchen from hallway creating a pantry in its place. Is this overkill to open up wall to access studs for secure mounting of new framing? I'm building custom shelves in pantry that will carry significant ...	You can certainly frame against drywall as long as the studs are fastened securely at the top and bottom. If it makes you feel more comfortable to open things up, go ahead and do it.
What do I need to remove and replace this recessed faucet aerator? I've got a bathroom sink faucet with a recessed (cache) aerator that needs to be cleaned or replaced, but seems to require a special tool to remove it. There is no obvious branding on the faucet, so I don't know what removal tool to ask or look for. I...	A Pair of Snap Ring pliers for small snap rings would allow you to remove it - a 90 or 60 degree bend at the nose would be very helpful.
Sanded wall rough after brushing / rolling Kilz Original -- should I sand or is this normal? I'm remodeling a pantry space in my home that had glossy dark purple paint on two walls and more matte gray paint on the other two. After removing shelving and wall anchors and completing wall repairs with spackle, I completely...	If you were going over regular walls to cover a stain with a regular 3/8" nap roller, you should be good, but for a fine finish, NOPE.
Why does Residual Current Device (RCD) trip with an electric hot plate? My German residence is supplied with 3 phase. The "main" distribution panel, wherein the service feed is connected, supplies the "kitchen zone" hereafter zone A. From the main panel, a 5 conductor 10 mm^2 (3 phase) is connected to a secondary dis...	If current is traveling a third path (e.g. through you, or via the safety earthing) that is called residual current. There's an error in the design, construction or operation of your hotplate. You could return the hotplate to the seller for a refund. Occam's Razor: your device has a ground fault
Adding a pilot light to a light switch I want to add a pilot light to a light in my basement. I want to position the pilot light upstairs so when I'm upstairs I will know if the light has been left on in the basement. I'd like a recommendation on the simplest way to complete this. <Q> Depending on your setup you may fi...	You could purchase a standard 120v indicator light, connect some romex at the switch or light whichever is easiest run the romex upstairs where you want the indicator, mount an old work box, drill a hole for the light in a blank cover connect the conductors and fasten the plate to the box, now every time the light is t...

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