Plumbing is a complicated thing. The pipes are hidden away, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed or frustrated by the process of finding the right part and dealing with all the fittings.
It may seem like a good idea to try tackling it on your own but trust us: It’s not!
If you find yourself facing plumbing issues, hire an expert instead of trying to fix it yourself. You’ll save money in the long run if you avoid costly repairs or emergency calls from overworked plumbers who have too many other jobs going on at once (not to mention water damage from flooding).
Plus, it’s fun spending time with people who make things work!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| 1. Properly securing and sealing connections can prevent leaks. |
| 2. Avoid using mismatched or incorrect pipe materials. |
| 3. Adequate venting is crucial to prevent drainage problems. |
| 4. Regular maintenance and inspections can catch issues early. |
| 5. Don’t overlook the importance of water pressure regulation. |
| 6. Taking precautions when using drain cleaners can prevent damage. |
| 7. Proper insulation protects pipes from freezing and bursting. |
| 8. Understanding the location of shut-off valves is essential in emergencies. |
| 9. Avoid over-tightening connections, as it can lead to damage. |
| 10. Consulting professional plumbers for complex or major projects is advisable. |
Not Using Proper Tools
When using any tool, it’s important to make sure that you’re using the right one for the job. Using a tool that is too large or too small may cause more harm than good.
If you are unsure of what size to use, double check with an expert who will be able to provide you with advice on how best to proceed.
Another important factor in choosing proper tools is their material and shape. For example, metal wrenches are better than plastic ones because they are stronger and less likely to break when working under pressure
Building a support system after experiencing plumbing issues can be challenging. Check out our comprehensive guide on The Top 15 Most Common Plumbing Issues and How to Fix Them to learn how to tackle these common problems and keep your plumbing in top shape.
Using Harsh Or Abrasive Cleaning Chemicals
Using harsh or abrasive cleaning chemicals to clean your pipes is one of the most common plumbing mistakes.
Using too strong of a cleaning solution can cause damage to your pipes, as well as leave them looking dull and dirty. If you want to avoid damaging your pipes, use a gentle cleaning solution that won’t scratch or damage the surface of them.
Similarly, avoid using chemicals that are too harsh on the surfaces of your pipes. This can lead to corrosion and other issues, so it’s important not to use anything stronger than what is recommended by manufacturers for household items such as dish soap or bleach products like Clorox liquid bleach (no powder).
| Risk | Solution |
|---|---|
| Damage to plumbing fixtures and surfaces | Utilize gentle and non-abrasive cleaning solutions (e.g., Method) |
| Corrosion of pipes and drains | Opt for eco-friendly and non-harsh cleaners (e.g., Seventh Generation) |
| Harmful chemical reactions | Use mild and non-toxic cleaning agents (e.g., Mrs. Meyer’s) |
| Health hazards from toxic fumes | Employ natural and non-chemical cleaners (e.g., Better Life) |
| Environmental impact of harsh chemicals | Choose environmentally friendly cleaning products (e.g., Ecover) |
| Allergic reactions and respiratory issues | Select cleaning solutions with natural ingredients (e.g., Green Works) |
| Discoloration or etching of surfaces | Prefer non-abrasive and pH-neutral cleaners (e.g., ECOS) |
| Preventing damage to plumbing components | Opt for plant-based and non-corrosive cleaners (e.g., Attitude) |
| Safety for pets and children | Use non-toxic and child-friendly cleaning formulas (e.g., Babyganics) |
| Preserving the longevity of plumbing systems | Adopt eco-friendly and septic-safe cleaning brands (e.g., Biokleen) |
Forgetting To Use A Hammer In The Right Way
For all your hammering needs, there are three kinds of heads you can use. Flat-headed hammers are good for driving nails and smashing things like ice.
Claw-headed hammers are used for pulling out nails, as well as chipping away at concrete or brickwork.
Nail sets are designed to be used with a flat-headed hammer in order to drive down the nail head below the surface of whatever you’re hammering on top of it (such as wood).
Don’t let plumbing problems overwhelm you. Our Ultimate Guide to Solving Any Plumbing Problem provides step-by-step instructions and expert tips to help you troubleshoot and fix various plumbing issues in your home.
Trying To Handle Large Plumbing Problems Yourself
The best way to save money and time on your plumbing projects is to call a professional plumber. While it’s possible to do everything yourself, there are some jobs that require more skill than you might have.
The following are just a few examples of the types of large problems that should be handled by professionals:
- Leaking water heaters
- Burst pipes or frozen pipes
- Broken sump pumps and sewer lines
Forgetting To Make Sure Your Plumber Is Licensed And Insured
It’s also important to make sure your plumber is licensed and insured. Plumbers have to be licensed by the state, which means they’ve passed an exam and have gone through a background check.
Insurance is important because it covers costs of injury or damage, but it also protects you from fraud—if the plumber intentionally misrepresents his work, insurance will cover the cost of repairs; without insurance, you’re responsible for all damages he causes in addition to paying him for his services.
Save money and gain confidence in your DIY skills with these 10 Surprising Plumbing Fixes You Can Do at Home. From unclogging drains to fixing leaky faucets, this guide will empower you to handle common plumbing repairs on your own.
Leaning On Too Many Diy Resources
There are a lot of DIY resources out there, and in many cases they can be as reliable as hiring a professional. But you have to do your research first and make sure the guide is written by someone who knows what they’re talking about.
There’s no point in trying to cut corners if it could end up costing you more money or even putting your family’s safety at risk.
So before tackling any kind of plumbing project on your own, make sure you’ve read up on it—you may not need more than an hour or two of research, but failing to do so could cost more time (and money!) down the line.
| Risk | Solution |
|---|---|
| Inaccurate or conflicting information | Rely on trusted DIY resources (e.g., DIY Network) |
| Lack of expertise and experience | Consult professional guides and tutorials (e.g., This Old House) |
| Potential for mistakes and errors | Seek advice from reputable DIY experts (e.g., Bob Vila) |
| Insufficient knowledge for complex projects | Utilize comprehensive DIY reference materials (e.g., Home Repair for Dummies) |
| Compromised safety during DIY endeavors | Follow guidelines from authoritative sources (e.g., Family Handyman) |
| Limited troubleshooting capabilities | Engage in forums and communities with DIY professionals (e.g., DIYChatroom) |
| Overwhelm and confusion from excessive information | Focus on reliable DIY resources (e.g., HGTV) |
| Ensuring proper techniques and methods | Learn from trusted DIY channels (e.g., YouTube: Home Repair Tutor) |
| Preventing costly DIY mistakes | Access step-by-step DIY instructions (e.g., DIY Projects) |
| Knowing when to seek professional help | Use DIY resources that emphasize limitations and boundaries (e.g., The Spruce) |
Leaving Repairs Undone For Too Long
There are no plumbers out there who would recommend that you do not have your pipes checked on a regular basis.
This is because there are many things that can go wrong with plumbing, and if left alone for too long, these issues will cause major damage to your home.
Leaking faucets, toilets or pipes can lead to serious problems such as mold growth in your walls and ceiling as well as flooding throughout the house.
It’s not worth risking this kind of damage just because it’s inconvenient for you to call a plumber all the time especially considering how much money hiring professional assistance will save you in the long run!
Not everyone is a plumbing expert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t handle minor plumbing issues. Check out our guide on 15 Quick and Easy Plumbing Fixes for the Non-Expert to discover simple solutions to common plumbing problems that anyone can implement.
Waiting Too Long To Hire A Plumber
When you have a plumbing problem, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more expensive the repair will be and the higher the risk of damage to your home or property.
You also run the risk of creating more problems if you neglect one issue for too long. Finally, waiting can result in stress and anxiety over how long your home will be in disarray while awaiting repairs which isn’t good for anyone!
| Consequences | Solution |
|---|---|
| Worsening plumbing issues | Timely hire of professional plumbers |
| Increased risk of water damage | Promptly engage plumbing services |
| Escalation of repair costs | Swiftly call reliable plumbing experts |
| Potential health hazards | Immediate assistance from qualified plumbers |
| Extended downtime and inconvenience | Early consultation with reputable plumbing companies |
| Structural damage to property | Timely intervention by experienced plumbers |
| Higher probability of plumbing emergencies | Prompt action in hiring skilled plumbing technicians |
| Water wastage and increased utility bills | Swift response by certified plumbing professionals |
| Compromised functionality of plumbing systems | Timely involvement of trusted plumbing specialists |
| Avoiding plumbing catastrophes | Quick enlistment of expert plumbing services |
Neglecting Maintenance And Cleaning Needs
Neglecting maintenance and cleaning needs is one of the most common slip-ups that plumbers see on a daily basis. Without regular cleaning, your plumbing system can take a beating from soap scum and other gunk that builds up over time.
This buildup can block drains or trap debris in pipes, causing clogs. To avoid this problem, it’s important to clean every drain every month by using a chemical drain cleaner or plunging it with a plunger (more info on how to do both here).
Incorrectly Ventilating Your Plumbing System
If you have a septic system, ventilating your plumbing is an absolutely critical part of ensuring the health and safety of your plumbing system.
The main reason for this is that gasses can accumulate in the air around your home and if they are not ventilated, they will eventually find their way into the soil where they will cause harm to animals and plants and pollute groundwater. These gasses can even be harmful to humans who breathe them in over time.
It’s also important to note that gas buildup could lead to explosions if it becomes trapped in small spaces such as kitchens or bathrooms where there aren’t many ventilation holes or windows that allow fresh air access.
Tired of that annoying leaky faucet? Learn how to fix it in no time with our step-by-step guide on How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in 5 Minutes or Less. Say goodbye to wasted water and constant dripping with these easy-to-follow instructions.
Not Installing Anti-Scald Devices On Faucets And Showers
- Anti-scald devices are designed to reduce the risk of serious injury when hot water spills over. They’re found on showers, bathtubs and faucets.
- You can install one yourself if you know how to turn off your main water valve and follow some basic DIY plumbing techniques.
Test your anti-scald device by running hot water into the sink or tub until it’s full enough for a person to sit comfortably in (less than 1/2″ from the top). Turn off the hot source; place your hand under the faucet or showerhead; then slowly turn on cold water until you can comfortably tolerate it without feeling pain from scalding.
Repeat this test several times during various times of day when temperatures might fluctuate morning/night, seasons changing to ensure that your system works properly at different times of day.
If there’s no change in temperature after several minutes have passed since turning on cold water, there may be something wrong with your test setup (such as clogged pipes)
| Risk | Solution |
|---|---|
| Scalding injuries from hot water | Install anti-scald devices (e.g., thermostatic mixing valves) |
| Burns caused by high water temperatures | Utilize temperature-limiting devices (e.g., Scald Guard) |
| Increased risk of accidents in showers | Implement anti-scald shower systems (e.g., Moen Flo by Moen) |
| Preventing hot water scalds | Use anti-scald faucets (e.g., Delta Temp2O) |
| Protecting children and vulnerable individuals | Install anti-scald fixtures and devices (e.g., Kohler Rite-Temp) |
| Ensuring safe water temperature | Incorporate thermostatic controls (e.g., Grohe TurboStat) |
| Avoiding hot water-related accidents | Employ temperature-regulating valves (e.g., American Standard Safe-T-Heater) |
| Eliminating scalding risks in bathing | Integrate anti-scald mechanisms (e.g., Pfister Temptrol) |
| Minimizing water temperature fluctuations | Choose anti-scald products with precise temperature control (e.g., Hansgrohe iBox) |
| Promoting safe water usage | Consider anti-scald technologies (e.g., Moen ExactTemp) |
Not Properly Preparing Pipes Before You Solder Them
The first step to successful soldering is preparing the pipe. If you’re going to use a flux, you’ll want to brush it on the inside of the pipe. If you don’t have any flux, then make sure that your metal pieces are clean and dry before putting them together.
Rust should also be removed from any pipes or fittings before soldering them together. If there are rust stains on the outside of your pipes, give them a rubdown with steel wool or sandpaper until they’re shiny again (don’t forget to wear gloves!).
In addition to rust removal, if there are any contaminants in your pipes such as dirt or debris from cutting/drilling/grinding other materials into place (like concrete), they can cause problems during soldering so make sure they’re removed by using something like compressed air or an old toothbrush dipped in soapy water!
Plumbing Can Be Hard, So Try Calling An Expert When Things Get Tough
There are many things you can do to prevent plumbing issues. However, if your pipes start breaking and things get out of hand, that’s okay!
Don’t be afraid to call a plumber. Plumbing can be hard because there are so many variables that come into play when you are trying to fix something.
It’s better to invest in an experienced professional who can make sure the work is done right the first time around than it is for you to try doing it yourself without any training or experience at all.
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Plumbing difficulties | Call a professional plumber |
| Complex plumbing issues | Seek expert assistance |
| Challenging plumbing projects | Hire a reputable plumbing company |
| Difficulties in troubleshooting | Contact a certified plumber |
| Tackling major plumbing repairs | Rely on experienced plumbers |
| Extensive plumbing system problems | Engage the services of trusted plumbing experts |
| Time-consuming plumbing tasks | Utilize the expertise of professional plumbers |
| Overwhelmed by plumbing challenges | Consult skilled plumbing professionals |
| Professional help for tough plumbing situations | Reach out to reliable plumbing specialists |
| Expert guidance for complex plumbing scenarios | Consider professional plumbing services |
Conclusion
Plumbing is not something to be taken lightly, but it can be easy to make mistakes. Remember that if you ever run into trouble with your plumbing system, there are plenty of experts out there who can help!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources that provide further insights on common plumbing mistakes and how to avoid them:
Common Plumbing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them: This blog post highlights common plumbing mistakes and offers practical tips to help you prevent them, ensuring efficient and trouble-free plumbing systems.
The 10 Most Common Plumbing Mistakes DIYers Make: Discover the most prevalent plumbing mistakes made by do-it-yourself enthusiasts and learn how to steer clear of them. This article provides valuable guidance for DIYers working on plumbing projects.
Common Plumbing Problems: How to Avoid Them: Learn about common plumbing problems that homeowners face and find practical advice on how to prevent them. This informative blog post can help you maintain a smoothly functioning plumbing system.
FAQs
What are the consequences of common plumbing mistakes?
Common plumbing mistakes can lead to various consequences such as water leaks, damage to pipes and fixtures, increased water bills, and potential water damage to your property.
How can I avoid plumbing mistakes when installing new fixtures?
To avoid plumbing mistakes during fixture installations, it’s essential to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions, use the correct tools, and ensure proper sealing and connections. If unsure, consider consulting a professional plumber.
What should I do if I encounter a plumbing mistake in my DIY project?
If you come across a plumbing mistake in your DIY project, it’s best to rectify it as soon as possible. Assess the issue, gather the necessary tools and materials, and refer to reliable guides or seek advice from professionals to fix the mistake effectively.
How can I prevent clogs and blockages in my plumbing system?
To prevent clogs and blockages, avoid flushing or disposing of non-flushable items down toilets and drains. Regularly clean drains using natural or commercial drain cleaners, and be mindful of what you put down your garbage disposal.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when working on plumbing repairs?
When conducting plumbing repairs, it’s crucial to shut off the water supply, use the correct tools, and take safety precautions. Avoid rushing through repairs, ensure proper fittings and connections, and if in doubt, seek professional assistance to avoid potential mistakes.
Hello, everyone! My name is Hellen James and I’m the founder of Unified Fix. I’ve been a home improvement enthusiast for years, so when we started this blog, I knew that it was important to me that we shared our knowledge with you.