Plumbing

Overflowing toilets are a nightmare. They’re typically gross, make a massive mess, and can leave a homeowner or DIYer feeling hopeless. But, when we meet host Kevin O’Connor and plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey back at the shop to talk about this sloppy problem, Richard shows Kevin just what to do.

People often ask us about PEX vs copper and which they should use in their home. Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey knows “it depends” isn’t the answer they're looking for. That’s why he got together with host Kevin O’Connor to discuss the two types of tubing and help homeowners decide which is best for their home.

An outdoor shower is great, but just because it’s outside doesn’t mean it has to be cold. When a young couple installed an outdoor shower at their Cape Cod home, they wanted high-end fixtures and the ability to use hot and cold water. Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey showed them how by installing an outdoor showerhead and water that breaks down easily for the winter months.

This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows tools and techniques for fixing corroded cast-iron pipe.

Dealing with changing shower temperatures? Read our guide to fix your anti-scald pressure balancer and restore consistent water temperature.

This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey comes up smelling sweet by installing a new discharge hose.

This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner diagnose and repair a wobbly toilet.

Learn how to renew an old water softener with This Old House plumbing and heating contractor Richard Trethewey in this helpful video.

This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows how to fix a slow draining tub.

Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey teams up with a local plumber to install a new stove and a vented microwave to exhaust the fumes.

Host Kevin O’Connor heads out on the road with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey to learn more about his HVAC showroom and educational facility.

Join us as we sit down with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey to discuss his passion for teaching and the mentors he’s had along the way.

This article explores the history of modern indoor plumbing and how it has fundamentally changed the way we live for the better.

Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a radiant floor system in their bathroom.

Learn how to repair a leaking shower valve or upgrade to a pressure-balanced valve in this guide from plumbing expert Richard Trethewey.

Watch as This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey explains how a recirculation system can save energy, money, and time.

Water coming out of a showerhead every time the tub fills can be annoying. Here’s a helpful way to troubleshoot the issue.

Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey installs a reserve tank so a homeowner can finally fill their tub with hot water for a relaxing bath.

Learn how to make simple irrigation repairs and maintain a lush, green lawn in this guide from plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey.

A stuck sink plug causes a major hassle. Luckily, it’s a DIY that can be taken care of in an hour or two. In this video, we join plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, who shows a homeowner how to fix their bath sink stopper.

Learn everything you need to know about septic systems from plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey in our in-depth septic guide.

In this DIY Smarts segment, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner replace their old tank water heater before it fails.

Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows host Kevin O’Connor how to handle sink drains in tight places.