4 Home Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid

Your home’s plumbing system is intricate and primarily located below your floors and behind walls, making leaks and other problems sometimes difficult to pinpoint. As a homeowner, there are plenty of easy mistakes you can make with regard to your plumbing. Here are a few to avoid in order to prevent a plumbing disaster:

Mistake #1 – Using Harsh Drain Cleaners

When you find yourself with a clogged drain, it can be tempting to run to the closest grocery or hardware store and pick up a “quick fix” like liquid drain cleaner. However, the harsh chemicals that these products are comprised of can have lasting effects on galvanized plumbing pipes, causing them to become leaky and corroded.

Mistake #2 – Not Turning Off the Water Before a Project

Some home projects will require you to turn off the water from the main shutoff valve before beginning. Forgetting to turn off the water before a DIY plumbing repair or home improvement project can easily cause gushing pipes that lead to home flooding or extensive water damage.

Mistake #3 – Connecting the Wrong Pipes

Another mistake homeowners make when dealing with their home’s plumbing system is connecting copper pipes to galvanized pipes. Repairing a galvanized pipe with a copper pipe will often lead to corrosion when the two materials are put together.

Mistake #4 – Not Getting a Permit for Plumbing Work

If you make significant changes to your home’s plumbing, it’s vital to get the proper permits necessary to do so. Skipping this step can lower the value of your home when you go to sell, and can also cause your home sale to take longer than is desirable.

Looking for a Residential Plumber in Westminster?

The best way to prevent a plumbing disaster in your home is by working with a licensed residential Maryland plumber. Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating has been serving homeowners and business owners alike with high-quality plumbing inspections, maintenance, and installation for many years. We’re here to help you avoid these common mistakes and ensure your plumbing is running smoothly and efficiently all year long. Contact us today to learn more.