WE HAVE A WATER LEAK !!! AND THE WASHING MACHINE DOOR WON'T OPEN.

     Thanks for joining us today here at Fresh's Workshop. If you are a first-time visitor, WELCOME. If you have been here before, THANKS for coming back.

This is the spot where we build and repair all kinds of cool stuff, along with making a ton of saw dust. (Man Glitter.)

In the last episode of Fresh's Workshop, we installed a CD case on the wall, which allows access to the switch plate. This setup is in preparation for the upcoming wall-mounted TV feature in Fresh's Workshop.

Today, we are setting aside our planned project to address an emergency.  

WE HAVE A WATER LEAK!!!! AND THE WASHING MACHINE IS CONFUSED.

Before we begin today's project, let's take a moment and talk about shop safety:

Be sure to read, understand and follow all of the safety rules that come with your power tools. Knowing how to use your power tools properly will greatly reduce the risk of personal injury. And remember this, there is no greater safety rule than to wear safety glasses.

Have you ever strolled through your yard and noticed some bubbly substance emerging from the ground?

No, not that. Just water.

That happened yesterday here at the Homestead.

If you wonder how to find a leak, don't worry. It will find you.

Initially, I shut off the water at the main meter box. Since this box is shared with a neighbor, I took care to turn off the correct valve.

I carefully excavated the area where water was emerging. Typically, the depth of the pipes is determined by the local 'frost line,' but in Central Florida, the frost line is not a concern. I uncovered two water pipes: one serving as the main supply to the house and the other linked to the yard's sprinkler system. The white object running at a 90-degree angle from the pipe is a tree root.

After exposing the pipes, I turned the water back on and discovered that the lower pipe was leaking. Subsequently, I shut off the sprinkler system's feed. 

The leak persisted, indicating the problem lied with the main house feed. This is quite problematic. 

This is the leak: a small hole, probably caused by a pebble that compressed the pipe when I drove the truck over it. (No more truck in the backyard)

Now, the task is to access the lower pipe. I've opted to cut away the top pipe—it's for the sprinkler system, which I can repair later. (DON'T FORGET TO TURN OFF THE SPRINKLER AT THE CONTROLLER.)

 The primary goal is to restore water to the house, enabling me to watch the Gators take on L.S.U. (Spoiler alert: It turned out to be a great day!)

Now that the pipe has been cut, it's time to patch it, which will require a visit to the hardware store.

I didn't notice that the lower pipe was slightly larger than the upper one, which made the parts I purchased somewhat incorrect. Therefore, I need to return to the hardware store.

Back at the homestead, I began repairing the pipe. Despite three attempts, it still leaked. To top it off, I'd used up all the couplings. So, what's next? You guessed it—another trip to the hardware store.

The kind woman at the checkout counter simply smiled. Or perhaps she was laughing at me? 

I recalled a piece of advice my father often gave: "Whenever you go to the hardware store for an item, always buy two."

I bought 8.

Returning to the task at hand, I'll spare you the details. It was not possible to perform the job and take pictures simultaneously with the kickoff fast approaching.

Here's a fantastic video on how to tackle this task. I wish I had found it before spending half the day driving to the hardware store.

HOW TO PATCH A PIPE

Fortunately, my patchwork held up, and there were no leaks..

Now I need to patch the top pipe for the sprinkler system, but that can wait until tomorrow.

It's time for football.

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE!

I was greeted Sunday morning by the boss.

"The washer is confused again."

Our washer often malfunctions. Typically, unplugging it resolves the issue. However, today was different.

Even after unplugging, the door remained locked. Fortunately, I discovered a handy trick. (YouTube is a great resource)

It may not apply to all models, but it works for our front loader.

IMPORTANT: Always unplug the washer first! Safety should always come first.

First thing you do is pull off the top. That is not as hard as it sounds. There are three screws on the back. Remove them and the top slides right out. I just slide it back, since we only need access to the front.

If you examine the picture, you will notice a white ring. Reach down and pull that ring upwards to release the door. 

Then, slide the top back into position. I don't replace the screws because I anticipate this will occur again.

Plug the unit back in.

And Bob's Your Uncle. Easy fix. A hell of a lot easier than that damn water pipe.

Regarding the water pipe, it's been three days, and the patch is still secure. I must attend to the sprinkler pipe soon, as Thursday is our designated lawn watering day. And my truck is still in the back yard.

Yesterday, I patched the pipe as previously described (unfortunately, I didn't take a picture). Afterward, I filled the hole and tested the sprinkler system. 

However, I encountered some issues, which I'll address in an upcoming episode.

Considering the average costs for plumbing and appliance repairs, I likely saved a significant amount by handling it myself.

Next week, we plan to tile our Radio Room. Additionally, we might clean our gutters using an unconventional method or perhaps construct a Lazy Susan. We've also crafted a handy rolling cart for our Hi-Fi turntable.

Also, more gardening coming your way as well.

See you then.

Be sure to visit some of my other blogs:

AROUND THE KITCHEN  - SEE WHAT I COOK

BRIARWOOD - YOU CAN READ MY NOVELS

AUDIO CONSOLE - WHERE I AM BUILDING AN AUDIO MIXER

DISCLAIMER The information contained here is for ENTERTAINMENT purposes only. Working with woodworking tools can be dangerous. The user of these tools should have a basic knowledge of woodworking and be familiar with the proper use and safety precautions associated with these tools. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, ear protection, and a dust mask. Always use the tool in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. Always maintain a safe and organized work area.

God Speed, Mother Nature