Plumbing How-To Guides
Step-by-step guides for common plumbing maintenance, repairs, and installations. Browse by category or search all guides below.
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Bathtubs & Showers Guides
4 how-to guides for Bathtubs & Showers.
View Bathtubs & Showers Guides →All How-To Guides 39
How to Add Salt to a Water Softener
Proper salt type selection, loading technique, and maintenance schedule for optimal water softener performance.
4 min read Read guide →How to Adjust a Pressure Reducing Valve
Test your home water pressure and adjust the PRV to maintain safe, consistent pressure throughout your plumbing.
5 min read Read guide →How to Adjust Toilet Water Level
Learn how to adjust the water level in your toilet tank for optimal flush performance and water conservation.
4 min read Read guide →How to Adjust Water Temperature
Learn the proper way to adjust your water heater thermostat for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
5 min read Read guide →How to Change Water Filter Cartridges
Replace sediment, carbon, and specialty filters in whole-house and under-sink filtration systems.
4 min read Read guide →How to Choose the Right Faucet
Match finish, configuration, and features to your sink layout and usage patterns.
8 min read Read guide →How to Choose the Right Size
Expert advice on calculating the correct water heater capacity for your household's hot water needs.
7 min read Read guide →How to Clean a Faucet Aerator
Improve flow and remove mineral buildup by cleaning or replacing the aerator screen.
5 min read Read guide →How to Clean Shower Door Tracks
Remove soap scum, mold, and mineral buildup from shower door tracks for smooth operation and a clean look.
4 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Burst Pipe
Emergency repair methods for burst pipes including temporary clamps, epoxy, and permanent splice repairs.
6 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Dripping Shower Head
Troubleshoot and repair a shower head that drips after the water is turned off, including cartridge and washer replacement.
5 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Leaking Gate Valve
Repair or replace a leaking gate valve with packing nut tightening, repacking, or full valve replacement.
5 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Leaking Sink Drain
Identify and repair common sink drain leaks at the basket strainer, P-trap, or tailpiece connections.
5 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Leaky Faucet Base
Diagnose base leaks from worn O-rings, loose mounting nuts, or seal issues.
8 min read Read guide →How to Fix a Running Toilet
Step-by-step instructions to diagnose and repair a toilet that won't stop running, including flapper, fill valve, and float adjustments.
6 min read Read guide →How to Flush Your Water Heater
Step-by-step guide to removing sediment buildup and extending your water heater's lifespan through regular maintenance.
8 min read Read guide →How to Install a Garbage Disposal
Complete installation guide including electrical wiring, mounting assembly, and plumbing connections.
8 min read Read guide →How to Install a Kitchen Faucet
Overview of removing an old faucet, connecting supply lines, and sealing the new fixture.
12 min read Read guide →How to Install a Recirculation Pump
Get instant hot water by installing a recirculation pump on your water heater with a dedicated or comfort return line.
6 min read Read guide →How to Install a Reverse Osmosis System
Under-sink RO system installation including feed water connection, membrane housing, storage tank, and dedicated faucet.
7 min read Read guide →How to Install a Sump Pump
Step-by-step guide to installing a new sump pump including pit preparation, check valve, and discharge line.
8 min read Read guide →How to Install an Undermount Sink
Professional techniques for mounting and sealing an undermount sink to granite or quartz countertops.
7 min read Read guide →How to Insulate Your Water Heater
Energy-saving tips for properly insulating your water heater tank and pipes to reduce heat loss and costs.
10 min read Read guide →How to Recaulk a Bathtub
Remove old caulk and apply a fresh, watertight bead around your bathtub to prevent water damage.
5 min read Read guide →How to Replace a Faucet Cartridge
Stop drips and restore smooth handle movement by replacing the cartridge or valve core.
9 min read Read guide →How to Replace a Shower Valve
Step-by-step guide to replacing a faulty shower mixing valve to restore temperature control and stop leaks.
8 min read Read guide →How to Replace a Shut-Off Valve
Replace a stuck or leaking shut-off valve under a sink, toilet, or washing machine with a new quarter-turn ball valve.
6 min read Read guide →How to Replace a Toilet
Complete guide to removing an old toilet and installing a new one, including wax ring replacement and proper sealing.
8 min read Read guide →How to Replace a Water Heater
Complete installation guide covering removal of old units and proper installation of new water heaters.
15 min read Read guide →How to Replace Faucet Supply Lines
Upgrade or replace supply hoses to address leaks, corrosion, or installation compatibility.
7 min read Read guide →How to Reset a Garbage Disposal
Quick fix for a disposal that has stopped working — locate and press the reset button, and clear any jams.
3 min read Read guide →How to Solder Copper Pipe
Master the technique of sweating copper joints using flux, solder, and a torch for leak-free connections.
7 min read Read guide →How to Test Pressure Relief Valve
Safety guide for testing and maintaining your water heater's pressure relief valve to prevent dangerous pressure buildup.
6 min read Read guide →How to Test Your Sump Pump
Regular testing procedures to ensure your sump pump activates properly and can handle water during heavy storms.
4 min read Read guide →How to Test Your Water Quality
Use home test kits or lab testing to identify contaminants, hardness, pH, and other water quality parameters.
5 min read Read guide →How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink
Effective methods to clear kitchen sink clogs including plunging, snaking, and cleaning the P-trap.
5 min read Read guide →How to Unclog a Toilet
Methods for clearing toilet clogs using a plunger, auger, or natural solutions without damaging the porcelain.
5 min read Read guide →How to Unjam a Garbage Disposal
Safely clear a jammed disposal using an Allen wrench and proper technique without damaging the motor.
4 min read Read guide →How to Use SharkBite Fittings
Quick guide to cutting pipe, deburring, and making push-fit connections on copper, PEX, or CPVC.
4 min read Read guide →