Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid
From everyday fixes to major renovations, being a responsible homeowner can get very expensive. If you're like most homeowners, you want to find as many ways as possible to save money, a quest that can lead you to take on a few home improvement projects yourself.
When it comes to plumbing, there are several common mistakes that even the most seasoned DIY gurus and homeowners can make. Don't wind up spending more money hiring a plumber to fix an issue you accidentally created. Instead, note these plumbing mistakes to avoid.
Relying Too Much on Drain Cleaner
Clogs happen, and chances are when they occur in your house, the first thing you grab is a commercial drain cleaner. However, while it's okay to use drain cleaner in moderation, using it too often can be very damaging to your plumbing. This is because most drain cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that will eventually eat away at pipes, whether they are PVC or metal.
If your drains don't get clogged very often, it's okay to use commercial products sparingly. A simple DIY solution is to pour white vinegar and baking soda down the drain. The chemical reaction that is caused when the baking soda and vinegar mix can help break up the clog.
Drains that are consistently becoming clogged should be cleared by a professional. In many cases, the issue is too severe, or too deep in your pipes, for store-bought cleaners and homemade fixes to clear.
Mismatching Pipes
Replacing even a few pipes can become a laborious and expensive chore. To cut corners, you might be considering purchasing cheaper pipes that are constructed from a different material than the other plumbing in your home. You probably figure that a pipe is a pipe, and you'll figure out a way to cobble together your plumbing.
Unfortunately, this is a common plumbing mistake that can lead to disastrous results. This is especially true if you try to connect copper and other metal pipes. This combination can lead to serious corrosion, which can cause your pipes to break down much faster.
Instead, always use the same pipe material throughout your home. If you're not sure which type of material your plumbing is made from, don't hesitate to ask a plumber for help. In addition to helping you find the correct pipes to purchase and install, the plumber can also provide additional tips to help ensure the job is completed correctly.
Not Watching What You Put Down the Drain
The drain in your kitchen sink suffers a lot of abuse, especially if you're constantly putting things down it that don't belong there. Even if you have a garbage disposal, there are certain substances that should never be put down any drains in your home. Here are a few:
- Grease
- Egg shells
- Any kind of fibrous foods, such as corn husks and onion skins
- Coffee grounds
If you're not sure whether a food item or other substance should be poured or shoved down the drain, it's best to err on the side of caution and instead toss whatever it is in the trash.
Taking on Projects You Cannot Handle
Finally, one of the biggest and most common plumbing Mistakes that many homeowners make is taking on a plumbing job that is too massive or complicated for them to complete on their own. One such job might be changing out the sink trap in your kitchen.
When it comes to larger jobs, such as completely replacing the existing plumbing throughout your home, issues with your main water line, or problems with low water pressure, it's best to contact a plumber in your area to tackle the issue.
If you're a homeowner who is plagued with plumbing issues, or if you simply want to know how to improve your water pressure or upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Cleary Plumbing & Air.