Avoid Committing These Plumbing Blunders In the New Year!
For the most part, taking care of a home’s plumbing system is fairly straightforward. After all, residential plumbing systems are generally low-maintenance and built to last. So it’s easy to understand why many homeowners have blindspots regarding what to do - and what not to do - to keep their plumbing in good shape. For this reason, many well-meaning homeowners often do more harm than good when fixing plumbing issues. So this article will lay out three of the most common mistakes homeowners make with their plumbing systems - and how to avoid them.
Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
The first plumbing pitfall to watch out for is using store-bought liquid drain cleaners to clear a clogged drain. These products contain harsh chemicals that break down clogs through intense chemical reactions. While they can be effective against some clogs, they can also damage the plumbing - some may generate tremendous heat that can warp or degrade drain pipes, while others may have chemical reactions with metals that cause corrosion.
Chemical drain cleaners can also release toxic fumes and cause severe burns if they come into contact with bare skin. They’re especially harmful in homes with septic systems, as they can kill the vital bacteria and microorganisms responsible for breaking down wastewater in the septic tank. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid chemical drain cleaners altogether. Instead, homeowners can use a safer DIY method (baking soda/vinegar mixture, plunger, etc.) - and if that fails, call their plumber.
Neglecting Water Heater Maintenance
The next plumbing mistake to avoid this year is one of the easiest to commit - not keeping up with water heater maintenance. There are a few tasks that homeowners may be able to tackle themselves, such as flushing the water tank to remove sediment and testing the pressure relief valve. But these should always be performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions - and only if it doesn’t violate the terms of the warranty.
In general, it’s always best to have the water heater serviced by a professional. Not only will this save homeowners time and trouble, but professionals can also perform various maintenance tasks that homeowners can’t (or shouldn’t). This includes cleaning gas burners or heating elements, checking for gas or carbon monoxide leaks, replacing gaskets and valves, and checking the anti-corrosion anode rod (and replacing it if necessary).
The general recommendation is to have the water heater serviced once a year (although it may be necessary to flush the tank twice a year in areas with hard water). This will keep the unit operating at peak efficiency, help prevent breakdowns, extend the unit’s lifespan, and minimize the risk of fires, scalding water, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Not Hiring a Pro for Plumbing Repairs & Installation
The third mistake homeowners often make is usually the most costly - trying to tackle plumbing repairs and installations independently. It’s natural to think that taking the DIY route will save money, but this often backfires. On top of purchasing (or renting) the right tools, an inexperienced DIYer is more likely to make mistakes that cause further damage. These factors can nullify any potential savings on labor costs, if not even more expensive.
A professional plumber will also have the proper licensing and insurance. This means that their work will comply with the latest standards and codes, and the homeowners won't be financially liable if they get injured or damage any property during their work.
Pros also have the training and experience that allows them to work quickly and efficiently without sacrificing quality - whereas it may take a well-meaning DIYer twice as long to do the same job. Especially on bigger projects like bathroom remodels that can take weeks and involve many different elements, a professional's expertise is well worth the investment!
About All Clear Plumbing
All Clear Plumbing has been proud to serve the Belleville community for over 70 years. As a BBB A+ rated business with decades of 5-star reviews, they guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job. They offer 24/7 emergency service and a money-saving loyalty program, so don’t hesitate to call All Clear for plumbing services in Belleville, NJ!
