Everyone loves a good DIY project until it goes wrong, and we make matters worse. Especially when it comes to plumbing repairs, a DIY gone wrong can cost you a lot. Hence, it is important to get an understanding of common plumbing mistakes that people make.
There’s nothing wrong with fixing small plumbing issues or installing modest fixtures in your home. However, if something goes wrong, it could cost you a lot of money in the long run. Hence, it is important to understand the do’s and don’ts to avoid these problems.
- Overtightening connections
Overtightening supply tubes, pipe and fittings, and toilet bolts are one of the most common mistakes. A galvanized or black pipe, coupler, tee, or elbow can be damaged if cranked too hard. A break may not appear immediately, but excessive force may cause the fitting to fail after weeks, resulting in flooding. Overtightening plastic fittings on toilet and faucet supply tubes is even more prevalent. Sealing a supply tube doesn’t require much force. If the hex nuts are overtightened, they can break and cause a leak. Further, overtightening toilet closet bolts on the floor or between the tank and bowl might damage the porcelain.
- Taping the wrong way or wrapping thread tape backward
The PTFE thread tape (also known as Teflon tape) must be coiled clockwise around the threads to operate effectively. DIYers often wrap the tape backward, causing the threads to unravel when the fitting is tightened. Wrap the pipe around the threads three times as you screw it into the fitting, with the last wrap facing left. If it’s pointed to the right, stop and re-tie it.
- Initial Use of Drain Cleaners
Unclogging the kitchen and bathroom sink is easiest with a snake or a barbed drain cleaning tool. Alternatively, you can remove the P-trap and pour the blockage out. Unfortunately, far too many DIYers start with the liquid drain cleaner and use more than the suggested amount. Liquid drain cleaners aren’t always the most effective option and can cause more problems than they solve. Drain cleaners when used in excess can corrode metal traps and pipes, causing leaks.
- Not turning off the water supply
Although turning off the water must always be the first step in any plumbing installation, it’s often overlooked. Many DIYs can turn into costly disasters when water bursts from a loosened connection. The situation could worsen more if you do not find the appropriate valve to shut the water supply, and with every passing moment, gallons of water would get wasted, creating a mess in your home. While many plumbing repairs appear to be simple in the YouTube videos, they can turn into more complicated and challenging activities. If performing do-it-yourself repairs seems complicated or you only trust a professional, you can always contact an expert to ensure the task is done correctly. Eco Pro Plumbing specializes in the maintenance of residential and high-rise as well as renovations, commercial, industrial, and a variety of other services. They provide the best plumbing service and repair since they have over two generations of experience in plumbing and mechanical services. They provide a variety of high-quality plumbing services at an affordable cost. When it comes to client service and workmanship, plumbing and drain cleaning are our top priorities, making them the best plumbing services in Cambridge.
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