A: The relative size or draft of the chimney wouldn't affect the pilot orifice or the sound it makes. The pilot will sound exactly the same, no matter the venting.
Something may have changed with the pilot setting, or the gas pressure, changing the sound you hear.
Water dripping on the gas logs is something that needs repair, however. If you have a metal-lined flue, it is missing its integral cap or the shroud is leaking. If it is a masonry or clay flue, you need to add a rain-diverting cap to keep the water out.
Q: We have beautiful 1948 toilets in our home, but are not happy about using five gallons per flush. Having switched out two of the toilets in the home to new low-flow pressure-assisted toilets, we are wondering if it is possible to retrofit an older toilet with this system?
A: First, let me say that outside of a brochure, this is the first time I have ever heard a toilet described as "beautiful." Functional elegance maybe, but beautiful? That must be one very good-looking throne you have there!
Retrofitting older toilets is dubious at best, in my experience. The trapways and bowls are designed differently in older toilets. (One example: More water sits just in the basin in your classic than is used in close to two flushes on a modern toilet. )
However, as you want to continue to use these fixtures, install an infinitely variable vertical float valve. Adjust it down as far as you can where it remains effective and saves water. There are also kits that allow you to convert to exactly 1.6 gallons, without the associated hassles and adjustments. Again, results may vary.
Darrell Hay answers readers' questions. Call 206-464-8514 to record your question |
