At Oliver, we know the world of plumbing is a complicated one, and there are many homeowners who decide to take on plumbing projects themselves. If you’re going to attempt a DIY venture, don’t make some of the most common plumbing mistakes:
Uneven Fixtures
If you decide to take on a larger installation like a toilet or a sink by yourself, one of the most crucial parts is leveling. While it seems like a common step, many people forget about leveling and end up with a fixture that doesn’t look or function properly. Invest in a level and don’t let an uneven installation cause you problems down the road.
Too Much Drain Cleaner
When homeowners experience a clogged drain, the first thing many turn to is a drain cleaner. However, drain cleaners contain harsh ingredients that can actually do more harm for your pipes than help; too much can eat away at both metal and PVC pipes. Here are a few more reasons why you should avoid chemical cleaners.
Wrong Tee’s or Wye’s
There are several different types of pipe connectors including various tee and wye fittings. Which you use depends on whether your pipes are running horizontally or vertically as well as their directional change. Using the right tee or wye is an important step in pipe installation and their future performance, so make sure you’re using the correct shape.
Leaving the Hose Connected
Once the temperature starts to drop, there are several things you should do to prep your home for winter – including removing any outdoor hoses from your spigots. If you leave them connected, ice can form and pressure can build up in the water lines inside your home, leading to water line damage. Remove them before it gets cold and store them in a dry place like your garage or a shed.
Mismatched Pipes
If you’re in need of a pipe replacement, it’s easy to accidentally choose the wrong shape, size, type, or material. Before you attempt a pipe replacement project, make sure you know exactly what replacement type you need. Choosing the wrong one can lead to leaks, breaks, corrosion, and more.
Avoidable Costly Repairs
Too many times, our home plumbing experts are called to repair a situation that was caused by a DIY attempt. Before you decide to take on a plumbing project yourself, know whether or not it’s beyond your skill level. If it is, simply give Oliver a call. We’ll take care of the project correctly and you won’t have to worry about costly repairs in the future.