Making DIY plumbing repairs can be a great way to save money and gain skills. However, if done incorrectly, it can lead to more costly problems. To prevent yourself from getting into serious hot water (no pun intended), here are 10 common plumbing mistakes you should avoid when doing your own repair projects at home.
1. Not shutting off the main water supply: This is one of the crucial steps in any plumbing project! Whenever you're working on a pipe or fixture connected to the main water supply, make sure you shut off all valves leading to this area so no water will flow through while repairs are being made. Plumbing in Jacksonville, NC, can get complicated due to the number of valves and shutoffs present, so it's essential to make sure you know exactly where the main water supply is and how to shut it off.
2. Using the wrong size parts: To ensure your pipes and fixtures fit correctly, measure the part size before purchasing a replacement. If you purchase a part that's too small or large, it will not fit correctly and could cause further damage.
3. Not using PTFE tape: When connecting metal pipes together, wrap them with PTFE (also known as plumber's) tape for a secure seal. Without this extra precaution, water can leak from the connection and lead to flooding or other costly repairs.
4. Over-tightening fittings: While tightening fittings is necessary to secure a good seal, over-tightening them can cause the pipe to crack or break, requiring more extensive repairs down the road.
5. Not using a drain cleaner: Kitchen and bathroom drains can become clogged with soap scum or other debris over time. Instead of attempting to clear these blockages by hand, use an appropriate chemical drain cleaner to dissolve the substance causing the obstruction. With professional emergency drain cleaning in Richlands, NC, you can be sure the job is done correctly with minimal damage to your plumbing.
6. Skipping the primer: If you're applying new glue to PVC pipes to make a secure connection, use a primer first. This helps ensure that the glue will adhere properly and provide a tight seal between the two pieces of pipe.
7. Ignoring signs of corrosion: Corrosion is one of the most common causes of plumbing problems, so it's essential to be on the lookout for any signs, such as discoloration or flaking of the pipes. If you notice any corrosion, contact a professional plumber immediately, as this can lead to further damage and costly repairs.
8. Not replacing old fixtures: Leaky taps or broken showerheads are annoying and can also waste water and money over time. Instead of attempting amateur plumbing repairs in Jacksonville, NC, it's often best to replace these parts with new ones, so you know they'll last for years.
9. Failing to insulate pipes: Pipes exposed to cold temperatures can freeze and burst, requiring extensive repairs and replacement parts. To prevent this, purchase insulation wrap from any hardware store and wrap your outdoor pipes before winter hits.
10. Ignoring a plumbing emergency: If you notice water leaking from your walls or ceilings, do not delay calling a professional plumber to investigate the source of the problem. Plumbing emergencies can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage if not taken care of quickly, so take your time.
By avoiding these 10 common DIY plumbing mistakes, you can save time and money while preventing further damage to your home's plumbing system. If you use caution and take all necessary safety precautions, your DIY repairs will be successful!
This guide has helped provide information about correctly completing plumbing tasks around your home. You can confidently attack any plumbing job with the right tools and knowledge. For more information about professional plumbing services in Richlands, NC, or Jacksonville, NC, contact a local plumber today. They'll be able to answer all your questions and give you peace of mind in knowing that your home's plumbing system is in good hands.
If you want to learn more or book an appointment, please dial 703-586-7025 to reach Wild Water Plumbing.
