What’s the best material for a deck in the Pacific Northwest? Homeowners have a wider range of options for decking material than they did a few years ago. Wood is the traditional choice for decks. It’s natural and looks good, but it requires upkeep. Manmade materials are growing in popularity. These synthetic materials continue to…
7 Ways to Fix a Sweating Toilet
What’s cold on the inside, warm on the outside and sweating bullets all over the bathroom floor? You guessed it: a sweating toilet tank. This is pretty common amongst toilets so there are quite a few ways to go about repairs. Read about what might work for you, and don’t hesitate to call a professional…
How to Clean a Faucet Aerator
(Updated Nov. 1, 2021) What Is a Faucet Aerator? An aerator is a small attachment you’ll find on the tip of most faucets. It’s a small device with a fine-mesh screen that’s usually screwed on. As water flows through the mesh screen, it will add air, filter out debris, and even water streams to create…
Toilet Water Supply Line Leak Repair
(Updated Nov. 8, 2021) A toilet water supply line leak is one of the many ways a loo can run amok. The line runs from just under the tank near the base of the toilet and attaches to the water line on the wall or floor. Water leaking from the toilet supply line can be…
How Does a Heat Pump Water Heater Work?
Lots of people in the Pacific Northwest use heat pumps to heat and cool their homes and businesses. Heat pumps are efficient and well suited for the mild winters in Vancouver. The same is true of a heat pump water heater. If you need a new water heater, here’s what you need to know about…
Troubleshoot a Leaking Toilet
Is water pooling on the floor near your toilet? A leaking toilet has several common causes. Some leaks are easy to fix. Other repairs will require more skill, time and elbow grease. Before you can fix your toilet, you’ll need to pinpoint where the water’s coming from. That Puddle Might Not Be Caused by a…
How to Choose a Shower Head for Your Home
Installing a shower used to mean placing a shower head over the tub and hanging a curtain. That simple setup is still right for many people. But if you’re looking for something more for your bathroom redo, you’re in luck. Today’s abundance of choices range from spa-worthy luxury, to simple and accessible functionality. Simpson Plumbing…
Take Steps to Reduce Lead in Drinking Water
Lead enters household water when materials used in plumbing systems corrode. In Oregon and Washington, the most common source of lead in drinking water is from the solder used to join copper pipes. There are simple steps you can take to reduce your exposure to lead in drinking water. Copper pipes and lead solder were…
How to Stop a Running Toilet
Need to catch a running toilet? A running toilet wastes water and money, and it’s one of the most common ways a house loses water. Fixing a toilet that is running is often simple and inexpensive. A Running Toilet Wastes Money and Water The Environmental Protection Agency estimates you can reduce your water bill by…
How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher
Is your dishwasher on the fritz? While a dishwasher isn’t a necessity, is does make life better. Dishes pile up fast, especially if you have kids. If the dishwasher is down for even a day or two, household routines can be disrupted. Before you throw in the towel and call a repair service, there are…