Archive for the ‘Bathroom’ Category
Got yourself a leaky toilet?
Although most people don't know this, some toilets can leak water even when you're not doing anything. If you've inspected your toilet before in order to see if it was wasting any water, only to notice that no water was wasted, this article might have the solution for your water wasting problems: your toilet may be inefficient - and even leaking - while you sleep! If you want to make your toilet more efficient and stop wasting water
through either a leak or through simple inefficiency, this article is for you.
The first thing you can do to detect a leak is to place a drop of food coloring in your toilet bowl. If water is leaking anywhere, you'll instantly detect it because of the changed color, so be sure to drop in plenty. Check the toilet tank to see if anything has leaked from the bowl - if there has, you're looking at a very hard-to-detect toilet leak that you've only seen because you've taken the time to look it up.
In order to fix this leak, you'll have to check in a number of places. Check common areas like the flapper. If there are any problems, you may have to replace an individual part of your toilet. In order to do this, try and find the most appropriate part - the same part, if possible - and buy it online or at your local hardware store.
What about a toilet that doesn't leak, but has simply started to become inefficient? If ecology is a major issue in your toilet flushing needs, you can always replace the unit itself in order to have a consistently low flush. But if you simply want to upgrade your current toilet so that you're losing less water each time you flush, you can simply replace the flush valve! You don't always need to get a new toilet in order to flush less each time.
If you're tight on money, you can simply replace the flush valve in order to make your toilet more efficient and lest wasteful. You can also fix the toilet by replacing an individual part if there is a leak and one part is causing the error. Remember to keep mental pictures of all of the repairs and upgrades you make in case you ever have to treat another toilet that has become inefficient. Next time, you'll be ready, and you'll know exactly what to do!
Photo credits: pokpok313
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Posted by Fix Handyman on December 17, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, toilet
Teflon tape is very handy.
When most people think about helpful tape, they think about duct tape. Sure, duct tape is a great tool and should be considered a must-have in your tool shed or garage, but what about teflon tape?
Teflon tape can be very handy around the house - but you want to make sure that you know how to use it before you start trying to fix your plumbing problems with it. In this article, you'll find some tips and suggestions for using teflon tape in the most efficient and practical way possible. Doing so is simple: use it when it will help and keep it up on the shelf in the garage when you don't need it.
When is it a good idea to use teflon tape? It applies best to the "threaded" ends of pipes in order to make sure that the pipe is fully watertight. Consider it an extra layer that is designed to keep all of the moisture where it belongs - inside the pipe. For this reason, teflon works best when you're sealing off the ends the threaded ends of pipes. For more information on better using teflon tape, see this article at AcmeHowTo.com. Follow their instructions for properly applying teflon tape.
You'll also find some detailed instructions at Howsed.com's teflon tape suggestions. Note that Howsed's article also deals with pipe dope and channel locks, which are other ways of doing similar things to plumbing that teflon tape does.
When applying the teflon tape, you'll want to make sure to apply it clockwise, as Howsed.com describes, and also make sure that it is properly applied to the pipe - you don't want to apply it in the wrong direction or the wrong place.
Be thorough when you're working with teflon tape - and make sure that you're equipped to diagnose what problem needs teflon tape to begin with. When you're working on your plumbing yourself, you should have a basic knowledge of how all of these things work in order to make sure that you apply it properly - if you're unsure, be sure to ask a professional for some help. If you ever call in a plumber and want to eventually work on do-it-yourself projects, be sure to ask them specific questions - even if you bother them a little, you'll end up with some (hopefully) helpful tips you can use in the future.
Photo Credits: Aeturnum
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Posted by Fix Handyman on November 10, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, toilet
Cold showers?
If you're like me, you don't particularly like that first few minutes of taking a shower when the water is running and you're waiting for it to warm up. You'd rather simply jump right in, not waste any water, and get the shower over with so you can move on with your day. If you're sick of wasting water and wasting time - even if it's just a few minutes, a quick fix on your cold shower head can improve the quality of your life. Even if it's just those few minutes each day!
Here are a few tips to fixing that cold shower head and getting your next shower to be warm in an instant.
- Take a shower after you use water elsewhere. If you're really short on ideas but need to take a quick, warm shower, try this: shower in "batches." That is, take a shower right after someone else in the morning. Their usage of the water will ensure that it's warm for you right away, and you'll be able to climb right in without missing a beat. Just make sure that you don't wait at the door until they're finished! (One note: You don't only have to wait until someone else takes a shower. If someone is using hot water from the same water heater your shower uses, keep in mind that it could be a great time to take a shower if you need it.
- Install a tankless water heater. If you want to spend a few bucks so you don't have to wait until someone else has used hot water, but you don't want to break your bank account, either, try and install a tankless water heater. What is a tankless water heater? Quite simply, they are water heaters that work locally to cover some of your bathrooms - in other words, it's a water heater that doesn't heat up your whole house. This can be great for bathrooms if you have a family that needs hot water in the mornings but at different times. It's also less expensive than simply purchasing an entirely new water heater.
Like so many aspects of home improvement, fixing your cold shower head starts by looking at your problem from its cause. You really can enjoy hotter showers if you use a little imagination and get proactive with your home improvement.
Photo Credits: sburke2478
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Posted by Fix Handyman on October 6, 2009 in
Bathroom, Shower, home repair
Get Rid of Rust
When it comes to the bathroom, there's nothing we want to see in there except anything that's brightly-colored. Yellows, greens, rusts, and especially browns are often strictly forbidden in many peoples' bathrooms. So when a rust color starts appearing in your toilet and you can't simply clean it off with a quick swipe of the toilet brush, you know you've got a rust problem - and it needs to go away quickly. So how exactly do you do that? Well, luckily, you've come to the right place: here you'll find out how to get rid of those pesky stains once and for all.
First, you'll have to check your own home for rust remover. If you live by yourself and don't remember buying any, you'll probably want to head to the local hardware store or appropriate retail outlet to buy a rust remover. Don't assume that your ordinary, around-the-kitchen cleaners will work in removing this rust. Instead, make sure that you know you have something that works.
What works? Well, you can start with a dedicated product like Shaw's Pads. What are these pads? They're simple cleaning devices made specifically for eliminating the kinds of stains you're facing in your toilet or bathtub. The web site may not look like much, but hey - if it works, it works.
There are other products available that can help remove the stains in your toilet. Look for a "Pumice stick" at your hardware store. All you do is take the stick and rub it against the stain, working up a "paste" that will help you clean off the stain, which you can then simply flush down the toilet.
Perhaps what's important in addressing toilet stains is what you don't do. The solutions to a toilet stain are relatively simple once you know them; but if you don't know how to fix them, you'll want to do your research first! Since this article has started you off in the right direction, you should have a better idea of how to eliminate those pesky toilet rust stains. Feel free to eliminate rust stains on similar bathroom fixtures like sinks and bath tubs, as well.
Remember, home improvement doesn't necessarily start with the tools; it starts with your knowledge. The more you know about what works and what doesn't, the quicker and safer your repairs will be.
Photo Credits: Fermion
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Posted by Fix Handyman on October 2, 2009 in
Bathroom, home repair, toilet
Clogged toilet? Get to work!
Let's face it: when it comes to your bathroom, you don't always have a lot of time to get things done. Emergencies in your bathroom can seem especially high-priority if you've got a quick water leak and need to get something flowing again before your entire room is flooded. If that's the case, you'll want to learn some bathroom basics - and how to handle them in a hurry. Here's how to fix your clogged toilet quickly.
First, if we can assume that you need to plunge a toilet in a hurry, we can also assume that your toilet is probably filling up. It's time to get the plunger quickly. Usually, you'd want to get the plunger after you add some water to the toilet, as plungers work best when the plunger head is also submerged in water. The good news is that during a serious backing up of your toilet, you'll have plenty of water to work with already. (That, of course, is also the bad news.)
This means that you should simply grab the plunger and get to unclogging right away - no waiting for the "right conditions" - just get to work! Next, you'll start plunging by pumping the toilet in rapid succession. Even if you splash some water around on the ground, don't worry. The water can be dried up, but you'll want to get the clog fixed as soon as possible.
A key element in this equation will be the plunger itself. If you don't have a very good plunger under the bathroom sink, you probably won't be able to unclog a toilet quite as quickly. Don't go for the "cute" plungers that look better than the big, clunky ones - you want a big, clunky one. These ones will be able to cover the entire drain in your toilet and move the most water possible, making each pump of the plunger more powerful. It will be difficult to clean out your clogged toilet in a rush if you're using a small, plastic plunger.
It's important that if you need to get your toilet unclogged quickly, you do it right the first time. Make sure that the plunger covers the entire drain of the toilet, as this seal will help to create the force you want. If it takes a couple of extra seconds to make sure you have the plunger on right, that's okay. Those extra seconds will mean that your plunger will be that much more effective when you do start pumping.
After a "bathroom emergency" like unclogging a toilet, you might find yourself amused at how rushed you felt. But if you know how to unclog a toilet the right way, you should feel perfectly relaxed, a true Unclogging Master.
Photo Credits: Two Big Paws
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Posted by Fix Handyman on September 1, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, toilet
Be innovative!
One of the parts of the shower ensemble that we take for granted is simple: the shower curtain rings! Our daily shower is such an ingrained part of our daily routine that we barely think about the quick second it takes to pull our shower curtain closed, let alone the rings that allow this simple maneuver possible. Of course, if you have broken shower curtain rings, suddenly you become inconveniently aware of their presence - or lack thereof. Here's how to fix your shower curtain rings for the long-term so you can get back to your daily routine.
First, go out to a home furnishing store and buy a new set of curtain rings. You'll be replacing all of the rings - remember that inside the home, uniformity in color and shape will be important when it comes to a "crowd" of parts like shower curtain rings. Your goal here will be to replace ever shower curtain ring, even the ones that are not broken. Once you've replaced them all, you'll feel better knowing you have a fresh set of curtain rings through every hole on your shower curtain.
In order to start fixing them, simply remove them. This might require taking the shower curtain off of the dowel first - don't try to pull it all down using force. After all, most household accidents take place inside the bathroom. Now that you've got the curtain off, pull off your shower curtain rings one by one. (Note: In some cases, you might have to take off the shower curtain rings one by one in order to get the curtain off. Whatever order works better, use it.)
Now you can start applying your shower curtain rings. One of the best ways to do this is to put the ring through the hole in the curtain so that you can attach the rings and curtain all at once when you're ready. Some shower curtain rings might be hard to figure out, but once you've figured out their mechanism - and some are quite simple - you'll be able to replace them all in no time.
Voila! You should now have a shower curtain attached firmly to the dowel in your shower, with a fresh set of rings keeping it attached. You should be able to enjoy this new setup for years. Until, of course, the next bathroom project shows up.
Photo Credits: Darwin Bell
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 24, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, Shower
Bubblebath anyone?
For many people, the bathtub isn't just a way to get clean, it's an oasis away from the stress and worries that come with daily life. Whether you indulge in a luxurious bubble bath every night or just enjoy a good soak now and then, it's important to keep your bathtub clean, neat, and most importantly, functioning. So how can you fix some of the most common bathtub problems? I thought you'd never ask. Here are the answers to some common bathtub questions.
Fixing a Bathtub Faucet Clog
One of the most frequent problems you'll see with a bathtub is that the faucet gets clogged. This isn't like unclogging a toilet - you actually might have to do some plumbing. But before you conjure up images of tool belts and blue jeans, remember that plumbing isn't complicated every time.
In each bathtub faucet there is a screen that helps make sure that any loose debris doesn't get plopped into your bubble bath, allowing you to enjoy clean, pristine water. The problem with this screen is that it can sometimes collect too much debris and actually clog your water from coming through with a full flow.
If you can, remove the faucet head in order to get to the screen. Take out the screen and wash it with warm or hot water, and use that time to clean out the inside of the bathtub faucet. If you have further problems but don't want to explore before you do further damage, call a plumber.
Fixing a Drain Clog
The next and perhaps more unpleasant problem with bathtubs is that sometimes the drains clog. You don't want to bathe today in yesterday's bathwater, so it's important that you get this drain cleared as soon as possible.
Though you'll want to clean the part of the drain you can see first, this rarely solves the problem itself. You'll want to plunge the drain like you would plunge a toilet, trying to remove as much of the blockage as possible. Fill a little water in your tub before you plunge.
If that doesn't work, you'll have to use a plumbing snake to get the clog out. Be patient with a plumbing snake, as oftentimes you'll have to go very deep before you can reach a clog. Once you do, voila! Good as new.
These are two of the most common problems that occur with bathtubs because they get in the way of the flow of our daily lives. The bathtub drain, for example, also effects the way we take showers. Even if you're initially frustrated, stick with your plumbing efforts as long as you're not doing any damage. You'll probably learn something.
Photo Credits: Darrius Thompson
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 18, 2009 in
Bathroom, Bathtub, Handyman, How to Fix
Time for a Toilet Tune-up?
If the bathroom were a car, the toilet would be your engine: it has a lot of power, moves a lot of water, and goes through a lot of fuel - well, we don't have to get too graphic. One of the similarities between toilets and engines that we can mention, however, is that your toilet might be ready for a tune-up. If you know your way around when you "pop the hood," you can take a look inside your toilet and see if everything's in working order. If not, one of these quick tune-ups might be able to help you.
Understand the Water Level.
The first thing you'll want to see inside your toilet is actually a water mark - the more stable your toilet, the more clear this water mark will be. A water mark will indicate the height that available water for flushing usually occupies: this mark should not be higher than the refill valve. You can set the water level by adjusting the float arm in your toilet; make sure that it is about three-quarters of the way up to the top of the refill valve. Never set the water level higher than the refill valve itself. Please make sure to note that different types of toilets will have alternate ways of setting the water level; do a little research to find out which model you're working with.
Know your Flush Valve.
One of the most important pieces of equipment in your toilet is the flush valve, which helps regulate the flow of water into your toilet. You should see a flush ball and an actuating mechanism, as well as a guide arm. This guide arm should be centered over your seat. Give your toilet a flush to make sure that the flush ball rises high enough for a total flush. If this isn't the case, you'll want to raise the guide arm so that the flush ball can have a high enough height.
Knowing your flush valve is very important, as many inside-the-toilet problems originate at that point. You'll have to know your options for treating a broken flush valve, including making direct repairs, replacing the flush ball, or replacing the flush valve altogether. You should be able to acquire a new flush valve at a hardware store or online - make sure that the model of toilet you're using lines up with the kind of flush valve you're purchasing. A new, modern flush valve can make your toilet run like new, so don't automatically assume that your old toilet is unsalvageable.
Photo Credits: kill-hill
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 17, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, toilet
Do you feel a draft?
One of the tools with the most uses around the house is simple: duct tape. A few rolls of duct tape in your tool shed will help you construct a temporary fix around most things, and will help to make sure that more brittle objects like glass can be rounded off so that they pose less of a safety threat. When it comes to the minor inconveniences, duct tape can deliver there, too. That's why you can repair a torn shower curtain with duct tape. Still curious as to how it's done? Let's explore.
If you tear a shower curtain down, it can puncture each hole that is meant for each of the shower rings - this leads to a "torn piece of paper from a notebook effect" that most people think means they have to go showerless. But in the time between a trip to the local home improvement store, you'll have to get by with a shower or two, especially if you have family in your home. Won't taping each individual hole require too much time and effort?
As it turns out, not if you're creative with your rolls of duct tape. Instead of taping up each hole, simply create a side of duct tape where all of the shower ring holes used to be - this double-sided duct tape edge should have as little adhesive showing as possible. This isn't totally necessary, of course, but it helps make things easier and more comfortable.
Now that you have a side of your shower curtain taped over with duct tape - the side with all of the ring holes - you'll need a way to put that side back up on the shower rings. You can do this by punching your own holes in the curtain and duct tape, essentially creating a new side of the shower curtain for temporary use. Hole punches can work if your rings are small, but you might need some larger holes if your rings are large and plastic. To do this, simply punch a hole and then poke it through with a wooden dowel or a similar object that will expand the hole.
Once you've done this a few times, you should be ready to put your repaired shower curtain up. It won't look like the best shower curtain you've ever used, but it will help ensure that you can close off your shower before buying a new curtain. If you're worried about splashing water out of the shower tub, you won't have to worry anymore; you'll be all set. Just another day in the life of a roll of duct tape.
Photo Credits: massdistraction
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 14, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix, Shower
How to Save Space In Your Bathroom
Let's face it: when most people build houses, having a luxurious, gigantic bathroom or series of bathrooms isn't always the highest priority. For most people, building a house is about efficiency: and setting aside square footage simply to have more tiles near the toilet isn't the way to achieve that. Others might disagree and say that a good bathroom is worth the expense, but if you want to have an open bathroom and efficiency, you'll probably want to learn how to save space.
Bathrooms can be a bit clumsy and small - if you want to squeeze as much ambiance in them as you can, it's time to learn how to save space where you can. That's why this article will tell you exactly how to achieve that.
- Install over-the-door towel bars.
Making room for the towel bar (or even a towel cabinet, in some cases) can be a little difficult. If your walls are close together, you might want to look elsewhere to hang your towels: on the door itself. Hanging your towels on the door will potentially put a little distance between your towels and your shower, but that doesn't mean you can't simply pick up a towel on your towel bar and place it near the shower. These towel bars can be easy to mount; just make sure that your floors aren't slippery when you walk from door to shower!
- Think vertically.
When we think about space, we usually think in two-dimensional terms: the floor goes north, south, east, and west. But what about up and down? You can create more efficiency by looking at the different things you can stack in your bathroom. Do you have too many appliances scattered on your counter? Buy a mini-cabinet that stores them upward, creating more available countertop space. A combination bath/shower is also efficient, which is why many people love to have those installed in their bathrooms, as well.
- What can you remove?
Sometimes, efficiency isn't about adding more; it's about cutting the fat. If you've been putting up with a bathroom that has cabinets way out in space, you might simply consider removing them and replacing them with more efficient, space-saving cabinets. Look around your bathroom and ask yourself what else you can remove: towel bars, shelves, and unnecessary decorations come to mind.
Remember that saving space in your bathroom isn't always about physics; it's about what you can imagine. Try to keep your mind open, see new perspectives, and ask yourself what you would do to save space if someone forced you to do it. You might find that the new efficiency helps you in the long run.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 5, 2009 in
Bathroom, Handyman, How to Fix
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