Home Plumbing Dos and Don’ts

Clogged drains, overflowing toilets and incessantly dripping taps are just a few of the plumbing problems that can plague any home. And while some of these issues may seem like no big deal, they can quickly become a nuisance and even a health hazard if not dealt with immediately. Additionally, if the repairs are done improperly, you can actually make the problem worse.

That’s why it’s important to be aware of a few key principles when it comes to plumbing. To help you out, we’ve listed some of the most important dos and don’ts in home plumbing.

Dos

1. Wear protective clothing when working with plumbing
   When working on plumbing issues, you will need to protect yourself from potential burns, shocks or other accidents. Wearing the right protective clothing is essential in mitigating any harm that can come from contact with contaminated water or other harmful substances.A good protective outfit for a home plumber should include durable, waterproof boots, non-slip gloves, safety glasses, knee pads and suitable overalls or protective clothing which feature heat retardant material depending on the job at hand. Taking the time to put on all of the necessary clothing helps ensure that a plumbing job will go smoothly.Making sure everything fits properly is also just as important because ill-fitting clothes may restrict movements and lead to further difficulties.
2. Turn off the water (if necessary)
   By turning off the water supply when necessary and adequately planning out projects, you can significantly reduce the amount of water being used in your home. So, if you are performing a task that doesn’t require water-such as re-piping or adding new pipes- start by ensuring that all sources of water are turned off so that you can reduce water waste.
3. Use natural methods where possible
   Clearing blockages in drains using natural methods is very important due to the value in conserving resources and protecting the environment. When natural methods are employed, there is no need to use harsh chemicals such as bleach that introduce non-biodegradable materials into the waterways and can have unintended consequences.As such, you should stick to more environmentally friendly approaches such as boiling water, baking soda and vinegar mixtures, or plungers for drain cleaning whenever possible. These items allow for efficient blockage removal without having a negative effect on the environment.Furthermore, opting for natural methods helps conserve valuable resources that typically go toward providing the raw materials and energy needed to make chemical-based cleaners. If you’re looking for a sustainable solution when it comes to drain clearing, going natural is definitely your best bet.
4. Understand basic tool safety principles
   Working with plumbing tools can be extremely dangerous. Because of this, it is important to know the basic safety principles before you begin.First, always read the directions of how to use and maintain the tools before you start and make sure that any screws or pins attach firmly before you work with them. In addition, you should be cautious when using cutting blades as they could cause deep injury. Consider wearing gloves for extra protection when dealing with sharp tools. Lastly, always remember to store your tools carefully in a dry place away from children and pets.Adhering to these safety principles will help reduce risk when working with plumbing tools.

Don’ts

1. Don’t throw rubbish down the disposal
   Throwing rubbish down the disposal may seem like an easy solution to getting rid of trash at home. However, it can be a hazardous practice. If you throw food down into the drain without properly chopping or grinding it up first, it can lead to clogging as food bits become lodged inside the pipes.In cases where clogs occur, usually an expert plumber has to be called out to fix the problem, which can be quite costly. Moreover, disposals are also not designed for non-food materials such as plastics and paper towels which might jam up your garbage disposal and eventually break it completely.
2. Don’t over-tighten plumbing connections
   
   Plumbing connections are an essential part of maintaining your home, so it is important to know proper techniques and how to tighten them properly.Over-tightening plumbing connections can lead to cracking or leaks over time due to excessive strain on the joints, which may result in costly repairs for homeowners. It is always advised not to over-tighten plumbing components, such as hose clamps, pipe fittings and nuts since this makes them more vulnerable to cracks and ultimately creates a watertight seal that won’t last long.Therefore, proper tightening techniques are necessary for a secure connection that will last as long as possible without any unnecessary breaks or leakage.
3. Don’t ignore strange odours
   Strange odours in your plumbing should not be ignored as they can potentially be signs of a bigger underlying issue. Such issues can range from sewer system problems, to potential blockages or cracks in pipelines.If left unchecked these minor issues can quickly spiral into major disasters along with costly repair costs.Therefore, if you experience any strange odours coming from your plumbing, it is best to call a plumber to come inspect the situation as soon as possible.

Call professionals when problem is too complex

Understanding and solving plumbing issues can often be a difficult task. If the problem is too complex, it is wise to seek professional help from plumbing professionals who have experience in dealing with more intricate problems. Not only will they come equipped with the proper tools needed to repair a plumbing issue, but they also have additional knowledge which can save a lot of time and energy for someone trying to fix it themselves.

Calling on the expertise of a plumber may cost extra money initially, but if done correctly, can avoid any unfortunate damages that may result from an improper DIY plumbing job.

Home plumbing can be a tricky business, but by following these simple do’s and don’ts you can make the process a little bit easier. Remember to store your tools safely, use natural methods whenever possible and call professionals when faced with a complex problem. By keeping these guidelines in mind, you’ll be able to keep your home plumbing running smoothly for years to come.