For emergencies
Start with the shut-off valve manual and the sewer backup manual. Knowing those two can save a finished basement.
For seasonal upkeep
Durham winters and spring thaws are hard on plumbing. The frozen pipe, hose bib and sump pump manuals are worth reading each autumn and spring.
For buying decisions
Water heaters, softeners and toilets all involve choices that last a decade or more. The buying manuals lay out the trade-offs without a sales pitch.
Local tip These manuals are general guidance. If anything involves gas, electricity near water or structural work, call a licensed professional.
Every guide
- Fixing a Running Toilet, Part by PartLift the lid and look
- Plumbing Checks When Buying an Older Ajax HomeBefore the conditions come off
- Choosing a New Toilet: Flush, Height, FitMeasure, then shop
- Winterizing Outdoor Faucets Each FallA Thanksgiving chore
- Preventing Frozen Pipes in a Durham WinterManual
- How to Flush a Tank Water HeaterSediment out the bottom
- Sump Pump Maintenance Before Spring ThawManual
- Banging, Humming and Noisy PipesEvery noise has a cause
- Fats, Oils and Grease in Kitchen DrainsLiquid at the stove, solid in the pipe
- Why Your Water Pressure Is LowOne tap or the whole house?
- Basement Flood Prevention ChecklistOutside in, top to bottom
- When Plumbing Work Needs a PermitAsk before you open the floor
- Rental vs Owned Water Heaters in OntarioRead the contract first
- How Long a Water Heater Lasts and When to ReplaceReading the tank
- Re-Caulking a Tub or Shower ProperlyA bead that keeps water out
- Tankless or Tank Water Heater: ChoosingSpace, gas and showers
- What to Do When the Sewer Backs UpThe first hour matters
- Hard Water in Durham Region: What It MeansCalcium in the kettle
- Why We Avoid Chemical Drain CleanersCaustic in a bottle
- Finding Your Main Water Shut-Off in an Ajax HomeManual
- Water Softener Basics and Salt CareResin, brine and a timer
- Plumbing Checklist Before Going AwaySuitcase by the door
- A Monthly Leak Check for Your HomeFifteen minutes with a flashlight
- What Not to Flush: A Plain ListThree Ps only
- Backwater Valves Explained for HomeownersThe flap under the cover