Plumbing Advice

Plumbing Advice

Intermittent bad smell Discussion Thread

Intermittent bad smell Discussion Thread

Hi

I have an intermittent bad smell that's really hard to pin down, I was wondering if I could get your thoughts on it.

I can go months without smelling that sulphur smell and then one day it kicks in. Sometimes its really faint, others its strong and lingers. I never know when it will stop, sometimes days, others weeks at a time. It seems to only be linked to hot water usage upstairs (1 bathroom with a shower and sink tap too). And its...
 

Grundfos MQ3-45 - Weird Noise Discussion Thread

Grundfos MQ3-45 - Weird Noise Discussion Thread

I have a Grundfos MQ3-45 feeding my domestic water from a ground level tank (filled from an RO system from the well). The pump is about 4 years old, with normal-heavy household use. Today it started making a bit of an awful noise - see the attached video. I disassembled the hydraulic end of it to see if there was anything odd there, but it was all normal.

Any ideas? I would like to avoid spending $1500 on a new pump, since I think these...
 

Smelly Odour Randomly Started Discussion Thread

Smelly Odour Randomly Started Discussion Thread

I have had a mystery smell start in my house all of a sudden.
The smell is prominent in an adjoining linen closet to my bathroom and appears to e coming from subfloor.
My home sits on brick piers (single story) with a dirt subfloor and forced fan subfloor ventilation installed to keep it all dry.
Note: No recent plumbing works done in the house (>12 months since anything was touched)

I have had 2 plumbers out so far and both have stated...
 

Booster Pump Needs Reset Daily Discussion Thread

Booster Pump Needs Reset Daily Discussion Thread

Hi,

I am currently using a Grundfos Booster Pump. This pump is fed by 2pcs of 1,000 liters water tank.

1704957338025.jpeg


Normally the pump would stop working only when there is no water in the water tank. But, recently for the past week, in the middle of the night, the pump would stop working even though the water tank is full. All I need is to reset the pump manually, but it...
 

Mechanical Services Estimator Discussion Thread

Mechanical Services Estimator Discussion Thread

Does anyone have a need for an estimator to price commercial mechanical & public health works on an ad hoc basis. Over 30 years experience with major national M & E contractors as well as smaller local contractors. Based near Staines but distance not really a problem if you can send me drawings and specification. I can price most jobs, anything from 20k to £5 million. No domestic works please, ie; one of houses.

Mechanical Services...
 

Brand new tap timer leaks around collar Discussion Thread

Brand new tap timer leaks around collar Discussion Thread

Per the pics attached, I have a brand new tap timer fitted to my outdoor tap with a brand new washer. It always leaks from the bottom of the fitting collar. I have tried four different washers (all pictured), both individually and in combination. I have tried tightening the connection, loosening the connection, applying lots of PTFE-tape, applying a little PTFE-tape, applying no-PTFE tape.. always the same leak. Any...
 

Are there any reliable taps of this kind? Discussion Thread

Are there any reliable taps of this kind? Discussion Thread

I'm putting in a utility sink, in a limited area, that has to serve for normal wash use but also to wash a dog. I've found some taps like these[1][2][3] which seem ideal - the tap can fold back against the wall to make room for the dog, and there's a hand-held spray with a trigger on it.

The problem is, I've only being able to find these online, probably coming from China; with mixed reviews on their build quality. The style...
 

Uk NVQ 2 qualification Discussion Thread

Uk NVQ 2 qualification Discussion Thread

Hi I have done the UK plumbing exams and projects in Southampton 10 years ago I’m going back to this trade I gave the NVQ 2 level 4 I’m told is similar to the Irish qualification level 6 , also worked as an mechanic for 10 years and did the engineering exams years ago in production can I ask what’s best advice I see James at plumbers parts .co.uk has an refresher course what’s app 00353868164134 email pesgreen~[email protected]

Uk...
 

Washing machine drain hose glued!! Discussion Thread

Washing machine drain hose glued!! Discussion Thread

Hi,

Thanks for looking. I am getting a new washing machine who will install, disconnect, recycle it, etc as long as its a straight forward process.

Which it may be, however, we moved our old machine from one house to another and the plumber who disconnected it cut off the end of the waste pipe hose so the next plumber had to use a hose pipe clip/clamp ( see pics) & appears to have used glue.

So, before they bring the machine on...
 

Can a HW cylinder be used as primary heat source for CH only? Discussion Thread

Can a HW cylinder be used as primary heat source for CH only? Discussion Thread

Hi, I would like to know if a HWC can be used as a primary heat source for a new central heating system. My idea is to heat the water in the cylinder in advance for space heating, then use a circulating pump to distribute around the home in radiators. The cylinder will contain radiator water though so unsure if this would be an issue?

The HW in the property is already on another cylinder. I know it seems...
 

Tightening galvanised pipe and fittings Discussion Thread

Tightening galvanised pipe and fittings Discussion Thread

I have a threaded galvanised tube between 2 T-pieces. I can’t screw the t-pieces onto the tube - they’re already sealed to the spur. So the only way I can screw the pipe between them is to screw it all the way into one side then screw it halfway into the other (by unscrewing from the first end) . So neither is tight.

How do I seal this? I can see that I can use enough PTFE tape on the 2nd end but by un tightening the first end...
 

What is bebeath this "stopcock" hatch? Discussion Thread

What is bebeath this "stopcock" hatch? Discussion Thread

Just in front of my house is this iron cover with "stopcock" on it (see attached photo)

However, when I lift the lid and look inside there is apparently not a stopcock, but some sort of a vertical metal structure with a cable attached to it. Can anyone tell me what it is? The void was partially filled with sand, most of which I have scooped out. Is the sand supposed to be there, or did it just get washed in from the garden?

I...
 

Purpose of vent under sink? Discussion Thread

Purpose of vent under sink? Discussion Thread

There are bad smells that come from my sink drain when I run water.

On inspecting (undoing) the U-bend trap, there is no debris or anything in there. It is a clean run. And I don't think the water is being siphoned out of the U-bend (though I can't be certain) because the sink is used a lot and the smells occur when I run water, not when I leave it alone.

I was puzzled as to the purpose of the vent that points upward and to the left in...
 

Saying hello to all on plumbers forum Discussion Thread

Saying hello to all on plumbers forum Discussion Thread

Job opportunity
Hi Everyone,
Not used this platform before, but thought worth a try, I have a bathroom distribution company in Langley, Slough and we are looking for a ex plumber or showroom experienced individual who is looking for a career change, we have an opportunity in the company for a technician representative who can help our customers over the phone with plumbing issues they may need help with, example what products can...
 

Is there a flexible pipe suitable for a secondary hot water circulatory system? Discussion Thread

Is there a flexible pipe suitable for a secondary hot water circulatory system? Discussion Thread

I'd be grateful for some advice please.
I'm doing a stable conversion which requires a secondary circulatory system. The plumber (yes, he is qualified) initially didn't realise this and when questioned, didn't actually appear to know what a secondary system was! He did come back to install one though, but I've now discovered (just in time before the ceilings are boarded over), that the...
 

Obstructed pipe q can I Reposition toilet pipe Discussion Thread

Obstructed pipe q can I Reposition toilet pipe Discussion Thread

Hi
I have a problem about waste pipe positioned over the front door
A bathroom was turned into a 3rd bedroom. The toilet and sink was moved to a storage room just behind the 3rd bedroom. The waste pipes were put under the floor. Everything works fine but the customer wants the waste pipe to be lifted above the decorative plaster .
I’ve been advised that is not possible as the waste needs to pass down to the soil pipe...
 

Can I move toilet waste pipe above decorative moulding outside front door Discussion Thread

Can I move toilet waste pipe above decorative moulding outside front door Discussion Thread

IMG_5426.jpeg
Hi
I have a problem about waste pipe positioned over the front door
A bathroom was turned into a 3rd bedroom. The toilet and sink was moved to a storage room just behind the 3rd bedroom. The waste pipes were put under the floor. Everything works fine but the customer wants the waste pipe to be lifted above the decorative...
 

Replacement Diverter valve for obsolete tap Discussion Thread

Replacement Diverter valve for obsolete tap Discussion Thread

Hi,
I have a Bristan Matrix Bath Shower Mixer Tap, the diverter valve has been temperamental for some time and has finally failed with a split rubber washer. The tap is obsolete and spares are no longer available.
(I have contacted Bristan.)
The bath is built in and access to the tap is not possible without a lot of dismantling.

Does anyone recognise the washer, (dimensions are approximately 25mm dia by 10mm thick...
 

Does anyone have any idea how to purchase FM MATTSSON parts in the uk? Discussion Thread

Changing from system to combi boiler with under floor pipework. Discussion Thread

Changing from system to combi boiler with under floor pipework. Discussion Thread

Wondering should i change a system boiler with a combi if I have underfloor pipes in a single storey 2 bed 90s bungalow There are only 9 bungalows in the close and I was told 2 of these had leaks in floor when they changed to a combi by a neighbor. He said as he was an engineer he would not advise the change as it was something to do with the different pressures the boilers operate on. What are the...
 

Qualified Trainee / Improver Seeks Start Discussion Thread

Qualified Trainee / Improver Seeks Start Discussion Thread

Hi - I am looking to return back to the industry. I completed a three year adult apprenticeship having qualified with the City & Guilds Level 2 and the NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing & Heating. I have three years experience. I am based in Carshalton in Surrey / Greater London. I want to get back into the trade but finding positions in proving to be difficult. Due to covid bereavement i left the firm I was with in South Kent and...
 

Qualified Trainee / Improver Seeks Start Discussion Thread

Qualified Trainee / Improver Seeks Start Discussion Thread

Hi - I am looking to return back to the industry. I completed a three year adult apprenticeship having qualified with the City & Guilds Level 2 and the NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing & Heating. I have three years experience. I am based in Carshalton in Surrey / Greater London. I want to get back into the trade but finding positions is proving to be difficult. Due to covid bereavement i left the firm I was with in South East Kent and...
 

Heat Exchanger with AGA and heat pump Discussion Thread

Heat Exchanger with AGA and heat pump Discussion Thread

Hi All I have a client asking whether they can still use the AGA to heat rads once the air source heat pump is in. I think it is possible using a heat exchanger so the low pressure AGA and high pressure heat pump systems don't connect. I've seen it done on biomass systems but wonder what the implications are with heat pump legislation

Heat Exchanger with AGA and heat pump for the original thread on Plumbers Forums
 

Mains Water Closet direct Flush valves still a rarity in UK? Discussion Thread

Mains Water Closet direct Flush valves still a rarity in UK? Discussion Thread

Just was at a caravan site in Lake District recently, which had some very interesting Delabie electronic tap and shower fittings, also direct WC flush valves which worked extremely well.
Always wondered why these valves didn’t seem to catch on in UK when very many other countries never use cisterns.
A quick look in the Delabie specs sheet reveals their valves require a 20mm bore feed capable of around a...
 

Best way to connect 10mm plastic pipe to 8mm micro bore Discussion Thread

Best way to connect 10mm plastic pipe to 8mm micro bore Discussion Thread

Hi all fitting new radiators and need to connect to 8mm micro bore copper pipe under floorboards, (full rework of pipes not an option) would 15mm plastic pipe be okay or just go up to 10mm plastic pipe ? Also best way to connect , compression or push fit ? Using inserts off course , additionally if I drained system down through current radiator valves would there still be a lot of residual water ,combi boiler...
 

Hot water and waste in detached garage conversion Discussion Thread

Hot water and waste in detached garage conversion Discussion Thread

Hi,
One of my client has a detached garage with access to electricity and cold water. The plan is to convert it to a granny studio.
What's the best way to:
1- get hot water to install a sink/tap and a shower
2- install the waste water drainage

Many thanks in advance for your time.
Kind

Hot water and waste in detached garage conversion for the original thread on Plumbers Forums
 

Latest Tiles Industry News

Stone News: Infinity Porcelain Slab Demo at Park Event

With BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant, you're installing consistency with built-in protection against black mould and m...

NuXdJYHE0V5rXlBPI&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-ams4-1.webp

With BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant, you're installing consistency with built-in protection against black mould and mildew.
BAL Grout-Effect Sealant has built-in Microban International anti-microbial technology - protecting against the growth of nasties on your sealant joints.
Match your grout in colour, texture and protection with BAL!
Find out more: https://www.bal-adhesives.com/…/bal-micromax-grout-effect-…/
#GroutEffect #TileSealing #MicrobanTechnology #MouldPrevention #SealantSolutions #BALProducts

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

It doesn't matter which you choose the result will always be perfect 🎯 . . . #sigmaitalia #tilecutter #sigmaserie4 #til...

BYJMSyi2OBy0ISX0w&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.webp

It doesn't matter which you choose the result will always be perfect 🎯
.
.
.
#sigmaitalia #tilecutter #sigmaserie4 #tilecuttersigma #madeinitaly #qualitytools #ediliziadiqualità #edilizia #bigslabs #slab #blueteam

.

When your patio does all the talking 🖤 This is how you mix things up in your garden! Bold pattern in the centre, calm t...

With BAL Rapid-Mat uncoupling mat, you're installing with a quick fast-track uncoupling solution! Easy to install, with...

oY4MMzwf8SmvT4II8&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-3.webp

With BAL Rapid-Mat uncoupling mat, you're installing with a quick fast-track uncoupling solution!
Easy to install, with no cavities to fill - ensures quicker project completion!! Lay and fix your tiles instantly!
With BAL Rapid-Mat, you're installing protection!
Find out more: https://www.bal-adhesives.com/products/rapid-mat/
#TileInstallation #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #ConstructionLife #HomeImprovement #RenovationTips #BALRapidMat #tiling #floortiles #uncoupling

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

REPOST 🔁 Check out this superb project from Quality mastics ltd featuring BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant! The perfec...

qiKdGKLtuP1LDGfF0&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-3.webp

REPOST 🔁
Check out this superb project from Quality mastics ltd featuring BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant!
The perfect anti-microbial matt sealant, where you want colour and texture match with your BAL Micromax grout! 👏😍
#BALMicromax #GroutEffect #Sealant #QualityMastics #AntiMicrobialSealant #Tiling #Tiles

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

Just over a week to go until the next Topps Tiles Trade event in Cheltenham! Join us on Thursday 19th June for superb de...

qLGd3kVU8oKniYWaU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-2.webp

Just over a week to go until the next Topps Tiles Trade event in Cheltenham!
Join us on Thursday 19th June for superb demonstrations, competitions, food and drink, deals on the day, giveaways and more!
Including get £10 FREE cash with GivBax rewards!
Don't miss out, register your interest today: https://ow.ly/Cy9t50W2ENu
#ToppsTiles #CheltenhamEvents #TileInstallation #LocalEvents #TradeShow #Tiles #Tiling #Cheltenham #Gloucester

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

Stone News: Vadara Called Out for Excellent Quartz Design

Vadara Called Out for Excellent Quartz DesignPresented annually by Design Journal, the ADEX (Awards for Design Excellence) Awards recognize superior product design across the architecture and design industry. Scandi Blue stood out among its competition for the quartz’s striking aesthetics, inspired by the sapphire blue water which flows between the rugged cliffs of the Norwegian Fjords.

.

Tile Blog | UK Tiling News | Standards for Tiles in the UK | Tile Advice - Some of our tile blogs and news sites.



UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forum | Tiler in Durham | UK Tilers Forums | Plumbers Forum - Blogs by Untold Media

Stone News: HGTV’s Tamara Day Brings Bold Design and Farm-Girl Grit to Coverings 2025

HGTV’s Tamara Day Brings Bold Design and Farm-Girl Grit to Coverings 2025Known for breathing new life into historic homes across Kansas City, Bargain Mansions star Tamara Day made her debut appearance at Coverings 2025, North America’s largest tile and stone trade show. The HGTV and Magnolia Network personality wasn’t just there to browse—she was exploring new possibilities for partnership and soaking in the artistry of tile design.

.

Tile Blog | UK Tiling News | Standards for Tiles in the UK | Tile Advice - Some of our tile blogs and news sites.



UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forum | Tiler in Durham | UK Tilers Forums | Plumbers Forum - Blogs by Untold Media

📽️ Introducing "The Threepeat". The inside story of Gloucester Hartpury's never-seen-before third successive league tit...

ie9GapWu4U0pxMpdA&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.webp

📽️ Introducing "The Threepeat".
The inside story of Gloucester Hartpury's never-seen-before third successive league title victory.
Purchase your 2025/26 Club Membership before Tuesday 1 July, and you'll receive an invite to a special pre-release screening!
Buy now 👉 https://bit.ly/2526GloucesterHartpuryCM

.

This is an automated post from Facebook to UK Tiling Forum; Tilers Forums UK

Advertisement

Tilers Forums Official Sponsors

Latest Tiles Industry News

Stone News: Infinity Porcelain Slab Demo at Park Event

With BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant, you're installing consistency with built-in protection against black mould and m...

NuXdJYHE0V5rXlBPI&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-ams4-1.webp

With BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant, you're installing consistency with built-in protection against black mould and mildew.
BAL Grout-Effect Sealant has built-in Microban International anti-microbial technology - protecting against the growth of nasties on your sealant joints.
Match your grout in colour, texture and protection with BAL!
Find out more: https://www.bal-adhesives.com/…/bal-micromax-grout-effect-…/
#GroutEffect #TileSealing #MicrobanTechnology #MouldPrevention #SealantSolutions #BALProducts

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

It doesn't matter which you choose the result will always be perfect 🎯 . . . #sigmaitalia #tilecutter #sigmaserie4 #til...

BYJMSyi2OBy0ISX0w&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.webp

It doesn't matter which you choose the result will always be perfect 🎯
.
.
.
#sigmaitalia #tilecutter #sigmaserie4 #tilecuttersigma #madeinitaly #qualitytools #ediliziadiqualità #edilizia #bigslabs #slab #blueteam

.

When your patio does all the talking 🖤 This is how you mix things up in your garden! Bold pattern in the centre, calm t...

With BAL Rapid-Mat uncoupling mat, you're installing with a quick fast-track uncoupling solution! Easy to install, with...

oY4MMzwf8SmvT4II8&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-3.webp

With BAL Rapid-Mat uncoupling mat, you're installing with a quick fast-track uncoupling solution!
Easy to install, with no cavities to fill - ensures quicker project completion!! Lay and fix your tiles instantly!
With BAL Rapid-Mat, you're installing protection!
Find out more: https://www.bal-adhesives.com/products/rapid-mat/
#TileInstallation #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #ConstructionLife #HomeImprovement #RenovationTips #BALRapidMat #tiling #floortiles #uncoupling

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

REPOST 🔁 Check out this superb project from Quality mastics ltd featuring BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant! The perfec...

qiKdGKLtuP1LDGfF0&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-3.webp

REPOST 🔁
Check out this superb project from Quality mastics ltd featuring BAL Micromax Grout-Effect Sealant!
The perfect anti-microbial matt sealant, where you want colour and texture match with your BAL Micromax grout! 👏😍
#BALMicromax #GroutEffect #Sealant #QualityMastics #AntiMicrobialSealant #Tiling #Tiles

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

Just over a week to go until the next Topps Tiles Trade event in Cheltenham! Join us on Thursday 19th June for superb de...

qLGd3kVU8oKniYWaU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-cdg4-2.webp

Just over a week to go until the next Topps Tiles Trade event in Cheltenham!
Join us on Thursday 19th June for superb demonstrations, competitions, food and drink, deals on the day, giveaways and more!
Including get £10 FREE cash with GivBax rewards!
Don't miss out, register your interest today: https://ow.ly/Cy9t50W2ENu
#ToppsTiles #CheltenhamEvents #TileInstallation #LocalEvents #TradeShow #Tiles #Tiling #Cheltenham #Gloucester

.

This is an automated RSS feed from BAL Tiling on Facebook, to UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forums

Stone News: Vadara Called Out for Excellent Quartz Design

Vadara Called Out for Excellent Quartz DesignPresented annually by Design Journal, the ADEX (Awards for Design Excellence) Awards recognize superior product design across the architecture and design industry. Scandi Blue stood out among its competition for the quartz’s striking aesthetics, inspired by the sapphire blue water which flows between the rugged cliffs of the Norwegian Fjords.

.

Tile Blog | UK Tiling News | Standards for Tiles in the UK | Tile Advice - Some of our tile blogs and news sites.



UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forum | Tiler in Durham | UK Tilers Forums | Plumbers Forum - Blogs by Untold Media

Stone News: HGTV’s Tamara Day Brings Bold Design and Farm-Girl Grit to Coverings 2025

HGTV’s Tamara Day Brings Bold Design and Farm-Girl Grit to Coverings 2025Known for breathing new life into historic homes across Kansas City, Bargain Mansions star Tamara Day made her debut appearance at Coverings 2025, North America’s largest tile and stone trade show. The HGTV and Magnolia Network personality wasn’t just there to browse—she was exploring new possibilities for partnership and soaking in the artistry of tile design.

.

Tile Blog | UK Tiling News | Standards for Tiles in the UK | Tile Advice - Some of our tile blogs and news sites.



UK Tiling Forum | Tilers Forum | Tiler in Durham | UK Tilers Forums | Plumbers Forum - Blogs by Untold Media

📽️ Introducing "The Threepeat". The inside story of Gloucester Hartpury's never-seen-before third successive league tit...

ie9GapWu4U0pxMpdA&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.webp

📽️ Introducing "The Threepeat".
The inside story of Gloucester Hartpury's never-seen-before third successive league title victory.
Purchase your 2025/26 Club Membership before Tuesday 1 July, and you'll receive an invite to a special pre-release screening!
Buy now 👉 https://bit.ly/2526GloucesterHartpuryCM

.

This is an automated post from Facebook to UK Tiling Forum; Tilers Forums UK
Back