Abstract: A forced hot-air gutter thawing system includes a multiple of gutter sections which each include a multiple of molded in hot air flow passages adjacent a liquid passageway. A hot air source such as a conventional hot-air type furnace communicates hot air through a manifold which distributes hot-air through the gutter sections to prevent ice and snow from blocking the liquid passageway. The gutter sections are assembled together through heat staking or other fastening arrangement such that the gutter sections may be combined in a modular manner to provide a gutter system for various dwellings.

Abstract: A materials storage chest system stores and selectively dispenses pipe in response to a controller which selectively limits access thereto. A material dispensing opening prevents access to the chest other than through the controller. A communication system provides for communication between the controller and a remote location to simplify inventory management and alert re-supply operators such that the system will provide adequate material supply.

Abstract: A plumbing tool includes an elongated hollow shaft and a resilient member attached to the shaft adjacent a shaft end. The resilient member extends radially outward and is sized to closely fit within a pipe inner diameter. Once the pipe has been cut, the tool is forced into the pipe end and the resilient member closely fits within the pipe inner diameter to block fluid flow. As the shaft is hollow, fluid flow is diverted through the shaft. A valve is then passed over the tool to engage the pipe end. As the fluid is being diverted through the tool, the value is then soldered to the pipe without concern for the heat sink effect of fluid passage through the pipe. Once the valve has been properly soldered to the pipe end, the tool is simply pulled through the valve and removed. Capping of the pipe end with the valve is therefore rapidly achieved with minimal disruption to the users.

Abstract: A plumbing tool includes an elongated hollow shaft and a resilient member attached to the shaft adjacent a shaft end. The resilient member extends radially outward and is sized to closely fit within a pipe inner diameter. Once the pipe has been cut, the tool is forced into the pipe end and the resilient member closely fits within the pipe inner diameter to block fluid flow. As the shaft is hollow, fluid flow is diverted through the shaft. A valve is then passed over the tool to engage the pipe end. As the fluid is being diverted through the tool, the valve is then soldered to the pipe without concern for the heat sink effect of fluid passage through the pipe. Once the valve has been properly soldered to the pipe end, the tool is simply pulled through the valve and removed. Capping of the pipe end with the valve is therefore rapidly achieved with minimal disruption to the users.