Question (from Roger in Shaker Heights, Ohio) : I'm new to this colder climate, and I want to protect my pipes from freezing. What should I do?Scott: It's great that you're thinking about prevention. It can save you a lot of money down the road. There are a few options to try. One option is electric insulation tape. It's electrically powered and will keep your pipes from freezing -- as long as your power is on. It wraps around the pipes, and easy to install. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions.
There are also various wraps and insulating tapes available from your home center (figure A). These are very inexpensive and easy to apply. Some have plastic coverings, and some need to be wrapped on the outside with duct tape. Simply tape the insulation around the pipes and elbows.
Jay: A third option is foam rubber insulation that is split so that it can easily be installed over the pipes. Just put it on (figure B) and wrap the ends to secure it.
Question (from KJ in Detroit, Michigan) : I just purchase a home with a natural fire place and found out the previous owners had it changed to a gas fire place. Can you please tell me out to change this back to a natural fireplace?Scott: You'll first need to call your utility company and ask them to send someone to turn off the gas source to your fireplace. Then you can remove the gas logs. Before you light your first fire, I'd suggest having the chimney cleaned to get rid of any soot buildup.
Jay: The important thing to remember is that, if you don't feel comfortable with this type of job, call a professional. It won't take long, and you'll be safe that way.
Question (from Brandon in Savannah, Georgia): I accidentally got spray paint on my vinyl siding. Could you please tell me how to remove it?
Jay: What you want to avoid is damaging your vinyl by using something that's too abrasive. Start with light cleaners and get heavier only as needed. I'd start with soap and water, then move on to scouring pads, then -- only if necessary -- paint removers or a pressure washer. If you do use a pressure washer, be sure that you avoid adjusting the pressure so high that it might crack the vinyl.
Jay and Scott's Insider Tip: Water Filters -- Are they Necessary?Scott: Chances are you've seen commercials for different types of water filters that you can buy for your home. But do you really need them? Before you spend the money on a water filtration system, find out whether you really need it.
Jay: Water filters can be expensive. Before installing one, call your water company and ask them to send you some information on the water quality in your area. Water and utility companies conduct tests on the water that they supply, and they can provide you with some of that information. Request a Consumer Confidence Report from your water district. It will tell you what's present in your water.
Scott: One of the simplest tests you can do is to pour a glass of water from the faucet and inspect it closely. Is the water clear? If it looks a little cloudy, it could simply be from air bubbles in the water line. Let the glass stand for a few minutes, then check it again. Next smell the water. A slight chlorine smell is normal in treated water. Any other smell is not normal. If your water remains cloudy or has an unusual smell, you can call someone to have it tested. You can also buy a home water test from your hardware store. It's a pretty basic test. If you're really concerned about water quality, though, you should hire a professional to test the water. Ask your health department to recommend a company.
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