Plumbing How To & DIY
Improve the value of your home by discovering our plumbing step-by-step tips & ideas.
Filed under:
How To Fix a Wobbly Toilet
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner diagnose and repair a wobbly toilet.
How to Repair a Water Softener
Learn how to renew an old water softener with This Old House plumbing and heating contractor Richard Trethewey in this helpful video.
How to Install Handheld Shower Head
Follow these simple steps to replace your standard showerhead with one that’s more convenient, versatile, and luxurious.
How to Clear a Clogged Bathtub Drain
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to fix a slow draining tub.
How to Find and Hire a Qualified Plumber
Need a plumber? Avoid getting soaked by hiring an experienced, licensed pro. Here’s what you need to know before hiring a plumber.
How To Change a Bathroom Faucet
Need to replace your bathroom faucet? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to change your bathroom faucet and give your bathroom an updated look.
How to Install a Kitchen Sink
Interested in adding a new kitchen sink? We’ve created a 10-step guide on how to install a new kitchen sink like a pro. Read on to learn more.
How To Fix a Slow-Draining Tub
Dealing with a slow-draining shower or tub? Learn more about the causes of slow-draining issues and discover DIY methods to fix your drain quickly.
How to Retrofit Radiant Heating in a Bathroom
In this video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a radiant floor system in their bathroom.
How To Repair a Leaking Shower Valve
When a shower valve in a perfectly preserved original bathroom started leaking, a homeowner reached out to Richard Trethewey for help fixing it.
How to Get Hot Water with a Recirculating Pump
This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey explains how a recirculation line can save energy, money, and time.
How To Clean a Clogged Faucet Aerator
Follow our step-by-step guide to clear a clogged faucet aerator and restore your faucet’s water flow and pressure.
How To Use a Plunger
Learn how to pick out the best plunger and use it properly when you encounter a clog in the bathroom.
How To Replace a Tub Drain
Plumbing expert Richard Trethewey shows a homeowner how to replace a bathtub drain when his old 1950s tub stops draining properly.
Dishwasher Maintenance: Keep Your Appliance Running Smoothly
In this guide and video, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to deep-clean a dishwasher and repair its components.
How to Fit Copper Pipes
Plumbing & Heating Expert Richard Tretheway shows host Kevin O’Connor several methods for making solid, watertight connections, both with solder and without.
Step by Step Guide for How to Remove a Bathtub Drain
If you’re looking to replace an old bathtub drain, it’s not difficult to do the job yourself. Read these steps to learn more.
How To Pump Water Out Of Your Basement
Flooding in your basement can damage belongings and your foundation. Follow this quick guide to learn how to pump water out of your basement.
Step by Step Guide to How to Snake a Clogged Toilet
If your clogged toilet can't be fixed with a plunger, don't panic. Another tool can help you address the problem — a toilet snake.
Everything You Need to Know to Install a Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are a tool to help prevent pesky kitchen odors, as well as stop food from going down the pipes. We discuss how to install a garbage disposal.
How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet
Need to update your bathroom sink faucet? Watch this DIY Smarts as Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to replace a bathroom faucet.
How To Bleed a Radiator
Have you noticed that one or more of your radiators isn’t warming up? Before you spend the money on a plumber, try this easy fix.
A Comprehensive Guide to Removing Air in Water Pipes
If air is in your water pipes, you may be able to easily fix it yourself. Learn how to tell if air is in your plumbing system and how to get rid of it.
The Best Methods to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger
Got a toilet clog, but no plunger in sight? Read this to learn how to unclog a toilet using only simple household items you probably have.
How To Clean a Dryer Vent
Excessive dryer lint buildup can pose a fire hazard, so it’s important to clean your dryer vent at least once a year.
How To Install a French Drain
Looking to install a French drain on your property? Check out our guide for step-by-step instructions for installing a French drain in your yard.
How To Fix A Dishwasher That’s Not Draining
Dishwasher not draining? Try these easy DIY solutions before calling a professional.
How to Connect Steel Gas Pipes
Are you having gas piping work done? Learn about a new method professionals use to connect gas pipes from This Old House's Richard Trethewey.
How To Replace Pedestal Sink Parts
Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace all the plumbing components in his pedestal sink.
How to Increase Water Pressure on City Water
Having issues with your water pressure? Here’s how to troubleshoot and improve your water pressure if you’re on city water.
How to Get Rid of Rust in Well Water
Bad taste or color in your well water? Learn about the different ways to remove rust and iron from your water supply.
How to Unclog Any Drain
Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows us every common household drain, and how to unclog them like a pro.
How To Upgrade to a Pressure-Balanced Shower Valve
Upgrade your shower experience with a pressure-balanced valve that maintains a steady temperature and prevents scalding. Read our guide to learn more.