As a homeowner, it’s important to have a basic understanding of plumbing to keep your home running smoothly. However, even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. In this article, we will take a look at some common plumbing mistakes that homeowners make and how to avoid them. By understanding these mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can save yourself time, money, and headaches down the road.
- Using chemical drain cleaners
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is using chemical drain cleaners to unclog their drains. While these products may seem like a quick and easy solution, they can actually cause more harm than good. Chemical drain cleaners are highly caustic and can damage pipes, as well as cause skin and eye irritation. They can also create a toxic environment in your home. Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, try using a plunger or a snake, or call a professional plumber to clear the clog.
2. Over tightening pipes and fittings
Another common mistake homeowners make is over tightening pipes and fittings. This can cause damage to the threads and make it difficult to remove the fitting later. Additionally, over tightening can cause leaks and other problems. To avoid this mistake, always use a pipe wrench or a pipe-fitting wrench and only tighten the fittings to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
3. Ignoring leaks
Ignoring leaks is another common mistake that homeowners make. Leaks, no matter how small, should always be addressed immediately. Not only do leaks waste water, but they can also cause damage to your home and lead to costly repairs. To avoid this mistake, check your pipes, faucets, and appliances regularly for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.
4. Not using the right size pipes
Another common mistake homeowners make is using the wrong size pipes for their plumbing system. This can cause a variety of problems, including reduced water pressure, leaks, and even pipe failure. To avoid this mistake, always use pipes that are the correct size for your plumbing system. This information can usually be found in your home’s plumbing plans or by consulting with a professional plumber.
5. Not using a licensed plumber
Another common mistake homeowners make is not using a licensed plumber. While it may be tempting to try to handle a plumbing problem yourself or to hire an unlicensed contractor, this can lead to serious problems. Licensed plumbers have the training, experience, and tools to handle even the most complex plumbing issues. Additionally, using a licensed plumber can protect you from liability if something goes wrong.
6. Not using the right type of PEX tubing
PEX tubing is a popular choice for plumbing systems because it is flexible, durable, and easy to install. However, not all PEX tubing is created equal. There are different types of PEX tubing available, each with its own set of properties. Using the wrong type of PEX tubing can lead to problems such as leakage, cracking, and reduced water pressure. To avoid this mistake, always use PEX tubing that is recommended for your particular application.
7. Not properly winterizing outdoor faucets
Another common mistake homeowners make is not properly winterizing outdoor faucets. When water in outdoor faucets is left in the pipes, it can freeze and expand, causing the pipes to burst. To avoid this mistake, always turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain the pipes before the first freeze of the season.
