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The air admittance valve, or AAV, is a spring-loaded mini-vent that sits right next to your washer. It acts in place of a standard vent stack connection, opening to let air into the drain whenever pressure builds up. It otherwise stays closed to prevent sewer gas from escaping into your home. This gives the washer’s plumbing system the air it needs when water enters or drains.

Generally, toilet leaking is not an emergency unless the leakage is severe. However, any leakage at the bottom should be addressed as soon as possible because it could lead to water damage to the floors, under the tiles, or into the walls. Leaks at the bottom can also lead to mold growth if unaddressed.

Older faucet fixtures may have some corrosion, leaving them stuck. Try a few techniques to loosen the fixtures.

• Wrap the fixture with a towel and tap the base with a hammer.

• Use a putty knife to gently remove any caulk that may be holding the handle or fixture in place.

• Apply a few drops of penetrating oil around the base of the fixture or around the nuts.

• Purchase a faucet pulling tool to pop the fixture loose.

You definitely can over-tighten toilet tank bolts. Unlike some other materials, porcelain can’t bend or flex, so when you over-tighten a screw into it, it could break against the added pressure. Only tighten them as much as needed to keep them in place and firm; any more and you could risk breaking the porcelain.