Ep 11. Baby Proofing, Septic Systems

In season 21 episode 11 of Ask This Old House, the team tackles two important topics- baby proofing and septic systems.

The first half of the episode starts with host Kevin O'Connor meeting with a family who just had a baby and wants to know how to make their home safe for their child. Kevin walks them through a variety of baby-proofing techniques, including securing furniture and appliances to walls, adding safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, and installing child-safety cabinet locks. He also recommends removing any potential choking hazards from the home, such as small toys or coins. Additionally, Kevin shows the family how to secure windows to prevent falls and how to install a carbon monoxide detector.

Next, Kevin meets up with plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey to discuss septic systems. Richard explains how septic systems work and what signs indicate that a septic system may be failing. He also demonstrates how to locate the septic tank and recommends having it pumped every three to five years to keep it functioning properly. Richard also points out that it's important to be mindful of what goes down your drains, such as avoiding flushing anything except toilet paper and avoiding pouring grease down the sink. Kevin and Richard also discuss the benefits of composting toilets as an alternative to traditional septic systems.

In the second half of the episode, Kevin heads to Michigan to meet with a homeowner who needs help updating her bathroom. The homeowner wants to replace the old, tired tile and add some modern touches, such as a new vanity and mirror. Kevin brings in contractor Tom Silva to tackle the project. Tom starts by removing the old tile and prepping the walls for new tile installation. He then installs a new vanity and mirror with help from plumbing expert Richard Trethewey. The end result is a fresh, updated bathroom that meets the homeowner's needs.

Overall, season 21 episode 11 of Ask This Old House provides valuable information for homeowners on two important topics- baby proofing and septic systems. With helpful tips from experts Kevin O'Connor, Richard Trethewey, and Tom Silva, viewers will learn how to keep their homes safe for children and maintain a healthy septic system.