Q: I want to install a soft-water conditioner in my house. My garage is preplumbed with a copper loop and I'm pretty good with home repairs, but the thought of soldering my copper pipes has me scared.

Soldering copper pipes is a more advanced DIY skill, but a great one to have if your house contains copper plumbing. Here's a complete walk-through of how to solder pipes. Since PEX tubing is becoming ...