Ray Mercer

Ray Mercer has spent thirty years keeping old houses running and has fixed most things twice, the second time correctly. He believes the majority of household problems fall to patience, a clean work area, and a twelve dollar part, and he will tell you plainly which jobs are not yours to do.

Articles by Ray Mercer

The Bathroom Cleans in One Direction and So Does the Water

Ray Mercer•Aug 31, 2026•23 min read

How to clean bathroom and unclog drains in the right order: top-to-bottom cleaning, the one-minute clog diagnosis, and the cheapest fix first.

Three Ways to Deep Clean a Carpet, and the Water Temperature Each One Needs

Ray Mercer•Jul 15, 2009•24 min read

Three ways to deep clean a carpet at home, with the exact water temperature, dwell time, and drying time each one needs, and the point where a professional is the honest answer.