Common Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make

It’s tempting to attempt your own plumbing work. Do it yourself, or DIY, fixes are often attempted to save time, money, and headaches; but unfortunately, many DIY jobs lead to extra repairs, more money lost, and bigger headaches than before. We understand you want to take the best care of your home, that’s why we’re asking you to call in experts. Our plumbers have seen it all and have stories to tell. Because of this, we’re sharing the common plumbing mistakes homeowners make.

Chemical Drain Cleaners

One of the biggest plumbing missteps homeowners make is the use of chemical drain cleaners. While these products are marketed as a miracle solution; truly, they’re nothing but nightmares. Chemical cleaners, like Drano, can have long and lasting negative effects on your home’s plumbing system. Chemical drain cleaners are caustic; meaning they can corrode your pipes and result in expensive fixes. They also can emit harmful fumes and can cause potential harm if you get these products on your skin. If you’re thinking of using a chemical drain cleaner, please put the bottle down and call us instead.

Preforming Unpermitted Work

One of the primary reasons homeowners update their plumbing system is to increase the resale value of their house and property. Unfortunately, if you make big changes to your house’s plumbing without the proper permits, you could significantly lower the value of your home. If you’re considering major work—like re-piping or a bathroom remodel—call the experts to make sure it’s done right. Preserve the value of your home.

Not Turning Off the Water

Though it may seem obvious, one of the most common plumbing mistakes is forgetting to turn off the water before they attempt a plumbing project. If you don’t turn off the water before working on your pipes, you could deal with small floods, a huge mess, or incredibly leaky pipes.

Using Thread Tape Wrong

Using Teflon tape or PTFE thread seems like a no brainer, right? Unfortunately, there’s more to wrapping tape than the average homeowner may think. First, if you’re using Teflon tape, remember to wrap it clockwise around a pipe or fitting. If sealed incorrectly—i.e. counterclockwise—the tape will unwind, defeating the whole purpose of it in the first place. If you want to do something simple, like change out a showerhead, here are the proper steps:

  1. Use white or pink Teflon tape. This tape is made specifically for pipes carrying water.
  2. Wrap the tape clockwise around the threading. Make sure the last wrap is facing left.
  3. Screw on your fixture and make sure not to tighten too hard.

Over Tightening

Over tightening is the number one mistake DIY “plumbers” make. While it may seem logical to screw a tube, pipe, or other fitting as tight as possible, this does more harm than good. When homeowners tighten something too hard, they run the risk of cracking the pipe or fitting. Additionally, over tightening could lead to cracked porcelain—if you’re fixing a toilet, leaks, and even floods.

Don’t Make a Mistake, Call Moore Home Services

Are you experiencing any problems with your plumbing? Please call us at Moore Home Services. Our expertly trained plumbers proudly serve the Santa Rosa area and are ready to help with any issues you may have. We start with a camera inspection to see what your plumbing system looks like and provide solutions from there. Please reach out to our friendly call center representatives or click here to request an appointment online.