Avoiding Common DIY Plumbing Mistakes: A Handy Checklist

We have all been there, watching YouTube tutorials and thinking, “How hard can it be?”

While enthusiasm is great, it’s easy to underestimate the complexity of plumbing repairs in Spotswood. Even something as simple as replacing a faucet can turn into a mini nightmare if you are not prepared.

Almost every homeowner has had at least one minor plumbing problem that doesn’t warrant contacting the experts. Whether it is weak shower pressure, a slow trickling faucet, or, worst of all, an uncontrollably running toilet, these typical plumbing difficulties aren’t major concerns. However, if they are ignored for a long time, they can become quite problematic.

Before you start any plumbing project, assess your skill level honestly. If the task seems too complicated, don’t hesitate to call a professional. It’s better to spend a bit more money upfront than to pay double to fix a DIY disaster.

With that being said, the following checklist will help you set up your DIY plumbing shop for repairs:

Safety First

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Protect your hands with gloves from sharp objects and chemicals.
• Wear safety goggles to prevent debris and splashes from getting into your eyes.
• Wear appropriate clothing to protect your skin from chemicals and sharp edges.

Understand the Risks

• Always turn off the water supply before starting any plumbing work to avoid flooding and water damage.
• Familiarize yourself with the location of your home’s main water shutoff valve in case of emergencies.

Correct Tools for the Job

• Pipe Wrench: For gripping and turning pipes.
• Basin Wrench: Essential for tightening nuts and bolts in hard-to-reach areas.
• Plumber’s Tape: For sealing pipe threads and preventing leaks.
• Plunger: For unclogging drains and toilets.
• Adjustable Wrench: Versatile tool for various plumbing tasks.

Specialized Tools

• Pipe Cutter: For cutting pipes cleanly and accurately.
• Drain Snake: To clear stubborn clogs.
• Propane Torch: Necessary for soldering copper pipes.

Correct Materials

• Use the right type of pipes (PVC, copper, PEX) and fittings for the job.

Sealants and Adhesives

• Plumber’s Putty: For sealing sinks and fixtures.
• Pipe Dope: For sealing threaded pipes.
• Silicone Caulk: For waterproof sealing around bathtubs, sinks, and showers.

Now that you are prepared, let’s take a look at some common DIY plumbing mistakes:

Forgetting to Close the Main Shutoff Valve

You would be surprised how many people forget this important plumbing fixture. Imagine this: You are halfway through replacing a pipe, and suddenly, water starts gushing everywhere because you forgot to turn off the water supply. It’s not just a rookie mistake! Even seasoned DIYers can overlook this in their excitement to get started.

Ignoring Leaky Pipes

A leaking pipe can be caused by various factors. Hair and grease buildup in pipes can raise water pressure, causing leaks and backups. Pipe rust, cracking, and leakage can also be caused by corrosion brought on by mineral-rich water. Unnoticed leaks in pipelines can persist for several weeks, months, or even years. Even if it’s not an emergency, a gradual leak might result in thousands of gallons of water wasted and a high water bill.

According to the EPA, leaks in the typical American home waste up to 10,000 gallons of water annually. That’s a lot! Although plumber’s tape and other short-term solutions can temporarily stop leaks, replacing the faulty part is the best way to halt leaks and avoid further problems.

Wong Installation of Shower Drain

If you grew up sharing a bathroom with your family, you are well aware of the amount of debris that falls through the shower drain. Before you know it, the drain starts slowing down because of lengthy hair and after a couple of body washes.

People often forget to pre-slope when doing a DIY job, and they might even use the wrong drain guard material. The general rule of thumb is to slope drain pipes at least 1/4 inch per foot. This can be measured using a level to ensure proper drainage.

Incorrect Use of Plumber’s Tape

Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) is essential for creating watertight seals on threaded pipe connections. However, it’s often used incorrectly. Applying too little tape can result in leaks, while too much tape can prevent the threads from connecting properly. The proper way to apply plumber’s tape is to wrap it around the threads of the pipe three to four times in a clockwise direction. Ensure that the tape covers the threads evenly without overlapping excessively.

Leaving the Toilet Running

If ignored, a running toilet might develop into a costly plumbing problem. It can waste hundreds of gallons of water daily. Usually, the malfunctioning flapper inside the tank is the cause of this issue. This flapper regulates the amount of water that comes from the tank to fill the bowl. Although you may easily correct this, sediment that obstructs proper water movement and flushing can also cause a running toilet. For the latter problem, contact emergency plumbing services in East Brunswick.

Using Chemical Drain Cleaners

When faced with a clog, many people reach for chemical drain cleaners. However, these harsh chemicals can damage pipes, especially older ones, and often only provide a temporary solution. A better approach is to use a plunger or a drain snake to remove clogs.

Overtightening Connections

Overtightening supply tubes, pipe fittings, and toilet bolts is the most common mistake committed by do-it-yourselfers. If you turn a black or galvanized pipe, elbow, coupler, or tee too hard, it can break. The fitting may burst weeks later and result in a flood, even if it doesn’t break immediately from the extreme tension.

More often than not, supply tubes for toilets and faucets have their plastic fittings overtightened. In other words, a supply tube can be sealed with relatively little torque. Overtightened hex nuts eventually break and leak.

Overlooking Vent Pipes

Vent pipes are important for maintaining proper air pressure in your plumbing system and allowing wastewater to flow freely. Ignoring or improperly installing vent pipes can lead to slow drains, gurgling sounds, and sewer gas odors. Ensure that all fixtures are properly vented according to code and that vents are not blocked or clogged.

Conclusion

Some plumbing tasks are deceptively complex and can quickly become overwhelming for a DIYer. Attempting a job without fully understanding what is required can lead to mistakes and damage. Be realistic about the project’s expectations and whether you can handle them. For major tasks like replacing a water heater, re-piping a section of the house, or installing new plumbing fixtures, it might be wise to hire a professional.

Ease Your Mind with the Plumbing Services of Bob Hoegler Plumbing LLC

Quality plumbing services don’t have to break the bank. Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a big headache. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs.

Whether it’s a routine repair or an emergency situation, you can count on us to be there when you need us the most. Trust us to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. A quick search online for a professional plumber near me in Sayreville will connect you with us. For more information, call 732.595.2078.