Im a n00b

[MichaelBikel]

I'm looking to pick up some info about general homeownership, things like water heaters, furnaces, ac, power, lighting, cable. I'm also interested in some more involved things like cracking foundations, insulation etc... Does anyone know the best places to find information on these subjects? I know literally nothing about any of these topics so I figured I would ask before jumping into it on the web.

 

[MScott]

Lots of great info right here on this site. Just use the search function and start reading. Once you exhaust what's available here, and if you still have questions, just ask.

 

[zeke67]

Are you looking at a particular property with a cracked foundation? You can learn about anything here, as mentioned. Some are tougher to deal with than others --> water heaters are a different scale than foundation cracks.

 

[Tomburr]

Searching here is a great start. Lots of professionals and highly experienced folks can be reached here.
Another place full of information and how-to instruction is YouTube. I would strongly recommend, however, that you consider your source of information and verify with a trained professional before attempting some things. Anyone can make a video, but that doesn't mean they're doing proper work or taking appropriate safety precautions.

Also, check out the This Old House website. They have a big library of videos on different household repairs that are easy to follow if you're new to this stuff.

 

[Cyberbear]

Foundation cracks are serious items of concern, everything else compared to that is minor. A home is only as good as it's foundation.

 

[Kaizen]

like tomburr said above tom silva did a great ask this old house on a foundation crack......and another on repointing field stone.
you tube is my first go to on something new. followed by google. then sites like this. don't overwhelm yourself. make a list and get some cursory information on it like "how does an electric water heater work" then if/when something happens then you again research specifically like "water heater only warm water".
things like insulation has some basic principles but a hundred applications that are all unique such as an unheated crawlspace vs unheated attic so focus on things that you need quick which is winter related that you can do -
in 40 years you'll have more tools then you know what to do with and know all of this cause you've done it several times.

 

[GirchyGirchy]

Are you asking in terms of fixing existing items in a house and needing repair info, or replacing with new and looking for recommendations?

 

[KDXSR5]

Also, check out the This Old House website. They have a big library of videos on different household repairs that are easy to follow if you're new to this stuff.

This. I learn new things everytime I watch their videos or visit their site. It is helpful and easily understood in my opinion.

 

[Yourfired]

I like this old house as well. Great website for everyday information.

 

[MichaelBikel]

Thanks guys,

I searched water heaters on youtube clicked on a random video and started watching. Anything I find worthy gets added to my "water heater" playlist, and I will try to make it a point to watch a few videos a week. Anything I have questions on I will either search the forum or post a new thread.

Here was the first video I found:

 

[Kaizen]

Thanks guys,

I searched water heaters on youtube clicked on a random video and started watching. Anything I find worthy gets added to my "water heater" playlist, and I will try to make it a point to watch a few videos a week. Anything I have questions on I will either search the forum or post a new thread.

Here was the first video I found:

you get the idea. I didn't watch the whole video but did want to point out something. do not listen to what one person says and take it as you should do it. like he said they recommend testing your high pressure release monthly but the reason no one does it is the sediment and grit from in the tank can lodge into the seal causing it to drip. then you have to replace it. study up on it and the anode rod. hopefully you have a gas water heater like he showed.!

 

[MichaelBikel]

you get the idea. I didn't watch the whole video but did want to point out something. do not listen to what one person says and take it as you should do it. like he said they recommend testing your high pressure release monthly but the reason no one does it is the sediment and grit from in the tank can lodge into the seal causing it to drip. then you have to replace it. study up on it and the anode rod. hopefully you have a gas water heater like he showed.!

That's a valid point, I will try to make use of that. I thought to myself, why would it be suggested that you test the valve ONCE A MONTH??? I thought it sounded like a scam to quickly ware out the valve or something, this only confirms I was thinking for myself. Thanks for the tip