Common Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid

Plumbing issues can quickly turn from a minor annoyance into a major catastrophe. While many homeowners try to handle repairs themselves, these common mistakes often lead to bigger problems.

1. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

It’s tempting to reach for a bottle of liquid cleaner when a drain is slow, but these harsh chemicals can actually eat away at your pipes over time, especially in older homes. A mechanical snake or a simple plunger is often safer and more effective.

2. Over-Tightening Connections

When fixing a leak, many people think ‘the tighter, the better.’ However, over-tightening can crack plastic fittings or strip the threads on metal pipes, leading to a much worse leak later on. ‘Hand-tight’ plus a quarter turn is usually sufficient.

3. Ignoring a Small Leak

That slow drip under the sink might not seem like a priority, but it can lead to mold growth and wood rot in your cabinetry. Small leaks are often signs of failing washers or high water pressure that needs to be addressed before a pipe bursts.

4. Flushing ‘Flushable’ Wipes

Despite the labeling, most ‘flushable’ wipes do not break down like toilet paper. They are a leading cause of sewer line clogs and septic system failures. Only flush the three P’s: pee, poop, and (toilet) paper.