HOME HANDYMAN
Moen, Delta faucet leaks easily repaired

By Glenn Haege

Q. I have a Moen kitchen faucet (about 15 years old) that has developed a small drip. What is involved in repairing this leak?

A. You are in luck. Both Moen and Delta faucets have easy repair kits. Shut off the water to the sink (both hot and cold). Take off the handle and unscrew the decorative fitting that covers the working parts of the faucet. Moen faucets have cartridges. Remove the cartridge and take it to a plumbing parts store so you get an exact replacement.

The replacement kit should include an O-ring, cartridge and clip. Replace all these parts and put the faucet back together. Turn on the water, and you should be good for the next 10 years.

Q. Recently you published an article regarding gutter systems. It seemed to include all systems except for Rainhandler. Do you have an expert opinion on this type of system?

A. Many homes have basements, and we want to direct rain water away from basement walls.

I don't recommend Rainhandler for areas with clay soil. If your house is on sand or rock, and you don't have a basement, the Rainhandler system might be OK.

Q. Is there such a thing as an in-wall dehumidifier? I am putting a home theater in my basement, and I have the ideal spot for an in-wall unit. I have searched the Web and could not find one.

A. I think I can do you one better. Why not get the new Aprilaire Model 1700 whole-house dehumidifier?

Too much humidity is often a large problem throughout the house during summer months. The high humidity makes us feel hot, clammy and uncomfortable, so we turn down the thermostat and waste a great deal of electricity making the air conditioner work harder than it should. High humidity also increases mold and mildew growth.

The new Aprilaire unit attaches to the furnace and actually monitors the moisture level in every room, including the basement. It automatically adjusts the humidity to the proper range for health and maximum comfort.