Q: There is a drilled well and septic in place on a plot of land I’m interested in, in upstate NY. It had served a home that had since burnt down. Is there a way to test the conditions of these without an existing structure? -- Jason A: Yes, both the existing well and septic can be tested. Well Testing A well driller can do the same type of yield test that is done on a new … [Read more...] about Testing An Existing Well & Septic System
Plumbing
Will Furnace Condensate Corrode Plumbing?
Q: I have a century-old home with copper and cast-iron drain pipes. I recently installed a high-efficiency furnace but learned the condensate may be corrosive to the drain pipes. I am wondering what pH level can harm the drain pipes. Also should I filter the water though a material such as limestone to reduce the pH. Would this an effective solution for treating the water … [Read more...] about Will Furnace Condensate Corrode Plumbing?
What Caused Water Stains on Ceiling?
Q: How do I identify the source of a water stain on the ceiling? I’m not sure if a leak is from the bathroom directly above or from something else. Also, once identified, how do I go about fixing the leak? – A.G. A: Finding the source of a leak in a ceiling often involves a bit of detective work. Like a detective, you start with the most likely suspect. If you can rule out … [Read more...] about What Caused Water Stains on Ceiling?
Why Is Water Heater Supply Line Hot?
Q: Why is the cold water inlet pipe on my water heater hot up to five feet away? Thanks in advance! -- Jan O. A: It is normal for the incoming cold water pipe to get a little warm due to convection – that is, hot water rising in the tank. Also copper piping is a good conductor of heat. Many modern water heaters have built-in heat traps to limit the migration of hot … [Read more...] about Why Is Water Heater Supply Line Hot?
PEX vs. Copper Plumbing
Mark writes: I own a Cape-style house built in 1945 and worry about a leak developing in the iron water lines when I am not at home to shut off the water at the mains. Is there a reason not to use PEX or PVC rather than copper pipe? Is there any way to get an independent idea of what a plumber should charge to do this? I live in a small town and we seem to be largely at the … [Read more...] about PEX vs. Copper Plumbing