Ask This Old House Season 3 Episode 9 Plumbing Valves; Replacing an Old Bulkhead; What Is It?; Drip Irrigation Repair

In season 3 episode 9 of Ask This Old House, the team tackles a range of topics related to household plumbing and repairs.

First up, Richard Trethewey sets out to explain the different types of plumbing valves you might encounter in your home and how each one works. From shutoff valves to pressure regulators, he covers all the basics and shows you how to identify each type of valve for yourself.

Next, Tom Silva heads outdoors to help a homeowner replace an old bulkhead. A bulkhead is essentially a set of doors or hatches that provides access to a basement or crawlspace from outside the house. Over time, these structures can deteriorate, allowing water and drafts to seep in. Tom shows how to remove and replace an old damaged bulkhead with a new one that fits tightly and keeps water and critters out.

Then, Kevin O'Connor takes on a mystery object in the 'What is it?' segment. Viewers submit photos of odd or unusual household items, and Kevin and the team try to figure out what they are and how they're used. In this episode, a viewer sends in a strange-looking tool that has puzzled everyone in the house. Can Kevin solve the mystery and identify the tool?

Finally, Mark McCullough demonstrates how to repair a drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation is a type of watering system that delivers water slowly and evenly to plants, using a network of tubes and emitters. Over time, these systems can become clogged or damaged, leading to uneven watering and reduced plant growth. Mark shows how to identify and troubleshoot common problems with drip irrigation, and offers tips on how to maintain your system for optimal performance.

Overall, Ask This Old House season 3 episode 9 offers a wealth of practical advice and DIY tips for homeowners looking to improve their plumbing systems, repair outdoor structures, and tackle common irrigation issues. With expert guidance from the Ask This Old House team, you'll be able to make your home safer, more comfortable, and more efficient.