When DIY goes wrong!
When it comes to home plumbing, even small mistakes can lead to big problems down the line. Whether you're tackling a DIY repair or simply maintaining your system, it's important to be aware of common pitfalls that can cause leaks, clogs, or damage. Here are 11 common plumbing mistakes to avoid to keep your pipes and fixtures in good working order.
Over-Tightening Connections: It's easy to think that tighter is better, but over-tightening connections can actually strip threads and cause leaks or cracks, especially in plastic pipes and fittings.
Using Chemical Drain Cleaners: Frequent use of chemical drain cleaners can corrode your pipes over time, leading to leaks and damage. These chemicals can also be harmful to your health and the environment.
Flushing Inappropriate Items: Flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste can lead to clogs and sewer backups. Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products should never be flushed.
Mismatching Pipe Materials: Connecting pipes made of different materials, like copper and galvanized steel, without the proper fittings can lead to corrosion and leaks. Always use the correct adapters when joining different types of pipes.
Ignoring Small Leaks: Even a small, slow drip can lead to significant water waste and damage over time. Ignoring a small leak can result in mold growth, wood rot, and higher water bills.
Improper Slope for Drain Pipes: Drain pipes need to be properly sloped to allow gravity to carry waste water away. If the slope is too steep or too shallow, it can lead to clogs and slow drainage.
Not Using Plumber’s Tape or Sealant: Failing to use plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) or pipe joint compound on threaded connections can result in leaks. These materials help create a watertight seal.
Overloading the Garbage Disposal: Putting too much food waste or the wrong types of items (like grease, bones, or fibrous vegetables) into the garbage disposal can cause clogs or damage the disposal.
Neglecting Water Pressure Issues: High water pressure can cause undue stress on pipes and fixtures, leading to leaks or burst pipes. If you notice high water pressure, consider installing a pressure regulator.
Not Turning Off the Water Supply: Before attempting any plumbing repair, it’s essential to turn off the water supply to prevent accidental flooding. Failing to do so can result in a messy and potentially costly mistake.
DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge: Attempting DIY plumbing repairs without the necessary knowledge or tools can often lead to bigger problems. It’s important to know your limits and call a professional when needed.