# \#diy-se **URL:** https://home.renovation.reviews/tag/diy-se/1119.md [Latest](https://home.renovation.reviews/latest.md) · [Categories](https://home.renovation.reviews/categories.md) · [Tags](https://home.renovation.reviews/tags.md) --- ## [Right‑sizing a critical loads subpanel with Enphase IQ8+ microinverters](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/right-sizing-a-critical-loads-subpanel-with-enphase-iq8-microinverters/20486)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [August 15, 2025, 2:47am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/right-sizing-a-critical-loads-subpanel-with-enphase-iq8-microinverters/20486 "2025-08-15T02:47:57Z")
When it comes to designing a critical-loads subpanel that draws power from both photovoltaic (PV) sources and the main service, several important considerations must be addressed. Which circuits should be prioritized for… --- ## [Chemical smell in cold water supply after bathroom remodel—PEX related?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/chemical-smell-in-cold-water-supply-after-bathroom-remodel-pex-related/20482)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 14, 2025, 3:47pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/chemical-smell-in-cold-water-supply-after-bathroom-remodel-pex-related/20482 "2025-08-14T15:47:11Z")
After renovating the bathroom, I’ve noticed a chemical or plastic-like smell coming from the cold water supply. Is it possible that the new PEX piping, the adhesives used, or perhaps stagnant water in the lines are respo… --- ## [Building a UL‑1618 Type 1 floor protector for a wood stove—layers and materials?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/building-a-ul-1618-type-1-floor-protector-for-a-wood-stove-layers-and-materials/20475)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 14, 2025, 10:24am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/building-a-ul-1618-type-1-floor-protector-for-a-wood-stove-layers-and-materials/20475 "2025-08-14T10:24:55Z")
The stove manual specifies a 3/8" UL‑1618 Type 1 floor pad that must be non-combustible. What is the ideal combination of materials—such as cement board, tile, and insulation—that satisfies the listing requirements? How … --- ## [Does efflorescence indicate a faulty French drain setup?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/does-efflorescence-indicate-a-faulty-french-drain-setup/20479)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [August 14, 2025, 4:51am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/does-efflorescence-indicate-a-faulty-french-drain-setup/20479 "2025-08-14T04:51:26Z")
Following the installation of exterior waterproofing and a new French drain leading to the footer, the interior displays efflorescence lines. Should we consider this to be a natural result of curing or mineral migration,… --- ## [How can I fix a door with one corner sticking out/gapped?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-can-i-fix-a-door-with-one-corner-sticking-out-gapped/20476)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 14, 2025, 4:16am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-can-i-fix-a-door-with-one-corner-sticking-out-gapped/20476 "2025-08-14T04:16:32Z")
In a newer home, if you’ve noticed that one corner of your entry door is sticking out and leaving a noticeable gap, it could be due to a twist in the door, humidity changes, or an issue with the frame itself. What steps … --- ## [Will my shelf be strong enough despite one of the brackets being in drywall anchors?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/will-my-shelf-be-strong-enough-despite-one-of-the-brackets-being-in-drywall-anchors/20465)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 11:59pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/will-my-shelf-be-strong-enough-despite-one-of-the-brackets-being-in-drywall-anchors/20465 "2025-08-13T23:59:36Z")
I’ve installed shelves utilizing a combination of supports: one bracket is securely anchored into a stud, while the other relies on drywall anchors. Although the brackets are rated for substantial weight, I’m concerned a… --- ## [Help troubleshooting a three‑way lighting circuit that behaves erratically](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/help-troubleshooting-a-three-way-lighting-circuit-that-behaves-erratically/20483)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 11:48pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/help-troubleshooting-a-three-way-lighting-circuit-that-behaves-erratically/20483 "2025-08-13T23:48:41Z")
In an older residence, there are two 3-way switches regulating a single light fixture, but the performance has become unpredictable following some modifications. What diagnostic tests can effectively reveal any miswiring… --- ## [How do I adjust a Blum 170° face frame hinge?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-do-i-adjust-a-blum-170-face-frame-hinge/20466)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 5:51pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-do-i-adjust-a-blum-170-face-frame-hinge/20466 "2025-08-13T17:51:36Z")
My kitchen cabinet door has been giving me trouble and won’t close properly; I suspect the bottom hinge might be the culprit. I attempted to follow the Blum PDF instructions but am still facing issues. Can anyone clarify… --- ## [Most efficient way to wire kitchen lighting with multi‑way switching?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/most-efficient-way-to-wire-kitchen-lighting-with-multi-way-switching/20477)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 5:49pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/most-efficient-way-to-wire-kitchen-lighting-with-multi-way-switching/20477 "2025-08-13T17:49:56Z")
When planning a kitchen renovation, understanding the wiring for your lighting is crucial. The diagram for your kitchen will feature several three-way switches to provide versatile control of your lights. What is the mos… --- ## [Attaching a deck ledger to brick/block—anchoring strategy?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/attaching-a-deck-ledger-to-brick-block-anchoring-strategy/20484)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 5:43pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/attaching-a-deck-ledger-to-brick-block-anchoring-strategy/20484 "2025-08-13T17:43:57Z")
A single-story addition or mudroom connection requires a ledger securely bolted through both brick and block. What types of fasteners are recommended, what spacing should be maintained, and what are the best practices fo… --- ## [Safe way to connect a stainless motorized ball valve to 3/4" copper main line (outdoors)?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/safe-way-to-connect-a-stainless-motorized-ball-valve-to-3-4-copper-main-line-outdoors/20471)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 5:40pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/safe-way-to-connect-a-stainless-motorized-ball-valve-to-3-4-copper-main-line-outdoors/20471 "2025-08-13T17:40:24Z")
When installing an automatic leak-shutoff valve after the meter, what are the best practices to consider? Specifically, how should we navigate the transitions between different materials, address dielectric concerns, and… --- ## [Can water percolation pit affect RCC column and footer?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/can-water-percolation-pit-affect-rcc-column-and-footer/20467)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 2:56pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/can-water-percolation-pit-affect-rcc-column-and-footer/20467 "2025-08-13T14:56:23Z")
Percolation pits surrounding a home are designed to manage greywater effectively. However, could the prolonged presence of percolation lead to potential issues with RCC columns and footers, or even trigger differential s… --- ## [Are W1 and W2 both energized during second‑stage heat calls from the thermostat?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/are-w1-and-w2-both-energized-during-second-stage-heat-calls-from-the-thermostat/20469)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 2:45pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/are-w1-and-w2-both-energized-during-second-stage-heat-calls-from-the-thermostat/20469 "2025-08-13T14:45:15Z")
In a two-stage furnace setup, particularly when utilizing an older thermostat, there’s often confusion regarding the operation during a second-stage heat call. Specifically, when W2 is activated, does W1 also engage, or … --- ## [Proper connections between heat‑pump water heater and thermostatic mixing valve?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/proper-connections-between-heat-pump-water-heater-and-thermostatic-mixing-valve/20474)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 2:33pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/proper-connections-between-heat-pump-water-heater-and-thermostatic-mixing-valve/20474 "2025-08-13T14:33:01Z")
When planning to install a Rheem hybrid heat pump water heater (HPWH) with a mixing valve, a question arises: should I opt for flexible stainless steel connectors or hard copper piping? Additionally, what is the best str… --- ## [How to fix an interior French drain that stopped working after 18 years?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-to-fix-an-interior-french-drain-that-stopped-working-after-18-years/20468)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 2:24pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-to-fix-an-interior-french-drain-that-stopped-working-after-18-years/20468 "2025-08-13T14:24:28Z")
An interior perimeter French drain functioned effectively for 18 years, but now its efficiency has declined. Unfortunately, the company that installed it has gone out of business. What steps can we take to diagnose poten… --- ## [OK to drain second vanity sink like this drawing—will it meet code?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ok-to-drain-second-vanity-sink-like-this-drawing-will-it-meet-code/20470)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 1:48pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/ok-to-drain-second-vanity-sink-like-this-drawing-will-it-meet-code/20470 "2025-08-13T13:48:09Z")
Incorporating an additional vanity sink and connecting it to the current galvanized system with PVC tees as shown in the sketch—does this configuration comply with venting and trap arm regulations? What are some typical … --- ## [Is it risky to place soak pits for greywater near a building?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/is-it-risky-to-place-soak-pits-for-greywater-near-a-building/20485)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 1:33pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/is-it-risky-to-place-soak-pits-for-greywater-near-a-building/20485 "2025-08-13T13:33:43Z")
When considering greywater soak pits linked in a series for kitchen and bathroom use, what are the essential minimum distances to maintain from building foundations? Additionally, how do groundwater concerns play a role … --- ## [Does NEC 2023 require conduit mounting hardware to be listed?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/does-nec-2023-require-conduit-mounting-hardware-to-be-listed/20481)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 1:19pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/does-nec-2023-require-conduit-mounting-hardware-to-be-listed/20481 "2025-08-13T13:19:53Z")
When examining NEC 358.6 for EMT, it raises an important question: Are straps and supports also required to be listed, and what is the typical approach for AHJ enforcement in residential projects? Understanding this aspe… --- ## [How to anchor a newel post at an awkward position after removing a wall?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-to-anchor-a-newel-post-at-an-awkward-position-after-removing-a-wall/20478)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 1:16pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/how-to-anchor-a-newel-post-at-an-awkward-position-after-removing-a-wall/20478 "2025-08-13T13:16:35Z")
After taking down a wall close to the staircase, I find myself in a position where I must securely anchor a newel post in an unconventional framing setup (a constructed stack of 2x4s). What are the strongest fastening te… --- ## [Water heater T&P valve dripping due to pressure spikes—root causes & fixes](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/water-heater-t-p-valve-dripping-due-to-pressure-spikes-root-causes-fixes/20487)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 12:54pm UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/water-heater-t-p-valve-dripping-due-to-pressure-spikes-root-causes-fixes/20487 "2025-08-13T12:54:34Z")
AO Smith power-vent 50-gallon water heater equipped with an ST-5 expansion tank; the T&P valve drips when there are pressure spikes. What steps can I take to troubleshoot possible PRV problems, assess thermal expansion, … --- ## [PV microinverter strings: conduit to panel connection details?](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/pv-microinverter-strings-conduit-to-panel-connection-details/20480)
**Author:** [@reno\_questions](https://home.renovation.reviews/u/reno_questions)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [August 13, 2025, 11:21am UTC](https://home.renovation.reviews/t/pv-microinverter-strings-conduit-to-panel-connection-details/20480 "2025-08-13T11:21:49Z")
Creating an effective residential solar system involves a thorough understanding of the best practices for running EMT or PVC conduit from the junction box to the main or subpanel. This includes knowing the appropriate b…