Archive for May, 2008

Rusty Hot Water

Monday, May 19th, 2008

Ben D asks, We had a hot water recirculating system installed recently & now we are having rusty looking water on the hot side. Do you have any idea of what would be causing this?

It sounds like someone installed a recirculating pump meant for a hydronic heating system instead of one that is intended for potable water use. The pumps used on the hydronic systems look the same & are cheaper, but they do not have the stainless steel recirculating blades & as you have found out, will leave a rusty residue in the water. You will need to swap out the recirculating pump.

“Crackly” Sound In Laminate Flooring

Sunday, May 18th, 2008

Rhonda L writes:
My laminate floor suddenly started making a “crackly” sound when we walk on it.
The only things we can think that caused it are using too much cleaner, (our
housekeeper may have used something other than the made-for-laminate cleaner),
the temperature got very hot outside (but our home inside is not that hot), but
the humidity has been much dryer, or our dogs tracking in pollen, which has been
prolific.  Which do you think caused it, and do you think it will it go away by
itself?  Thank you.

If it has just started making the sound then too much cleaner could lead to
swelling & result in what you are hearing. It seems 2 of the most common
things are lack of an underlayment underneath, but that it usually more of a
squeaking sound (wood rubbing against wood). The other wood be inadequate
spacing at the perimeter. There should be 1/4 inch gap left at the perimeter
to allow for expansion. If there is no room for expansion then the floor
will try to buckle & could also result in the crackly sound you are hearing.
Tell your cleaning lady not to use anything but the recommend cleaner on it
& not much of that. Monitor & see if it gets any better. If it does not then
it could possibly be an installation issue?
How long has the floor been down?