Plumbing Mistakes You Might Be Making
Plumbing is essential in most homes today and without proper care it can also create the most expensive repairs. Here are a few of the most common plumbing mistakes and easy ways to avoid making them in your home:
Leaving Water On
When a pipe bursts, or a toilet won't stop overflowing, many people's first instinct is to immediately call a plumber. While you should still hire a plumber to repair plumbing emergencies, the first, and most important, thing to do is to turn off the water. Most homes have a main water line, as well as shut-off valves on toilets and sinks. Turning water off in emergencies will save you money on the water bill and money in repairs where the water may cause damage.
Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Drain cleaners are a cheap and easy way to unclog drains in certain situations. The chemicals in drain cleaners eat away at whatever is doing the clogging, but it also will start to eat away at the pipe you are pouring it down. Another alternative to chemical drain cleaners is a drain snake. These are tools you put down the drain that latch onto the clog to pull it out. Another safer and cheaper way to clear a drain is to sprinkle baking soda down the drain, add vinegar and wait a few hours before flushing hot water down the drain. The best option, especially if you have reoccuring drain clogs, is to consult a plumber. Chronic drain clogs may be a sign of a bigger problem.
DIY Plumbing Fixes
Even if you think you are handy enough to fix a plumbing problem, it is best to consult an expert in the case that the problem you have is more complicated than anticipated. You may be able to fix the problem temporarily, but in the long term you may cause more damage. Repairs you make to your home may require a permit to do, and in some states only licensed plumbers and contractors can apply for permits. If this is the case you may end up depreciating your home's value by not acquiring the proper permits.
Handymen v. Licensed Plumbers
Handymen are great when you have small projects, like painting a room or fixing a broken floorboard, but when it comes to plumbing you should always hire a licensed plumber. Handymen might be able to fix a plumbing emergency, but warranties on many plumbing equipment in your home may be voided if anyone other than a licensed plumber services them. If he does a poor job, you have no other option but to then hire a licensed plumber to repair the damage, which may end up costing you more in the long run.
Not Having Regular Plumbing Services
When you regularly schedule plumbing maintenance you are able to detect those small leaks that may have the potential to evolve into larger, more expensive problems. It can help to spot things like leaks, which may turn into mold. Also, regular inspections help people who want to sell their home, as it will eliminate any surprise plumbing issues.
Make sure to schedule regular maintenances with Pink Plumber!
