13 Common DIY Plumbing Fails to Avoid

The Most Common Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

As a homeowner, it can be tempting to try and tackle plumbing issues yourself to save money on hiring a professional. However, DIY plumbing can often lead to more problems if not done correctly. The number of plumbing mistakes range from minor annoyances to those that lead to major damage. Here are 13 common DIY plumbing fails that you should avoid:

Forgetting to Turn Off the Water Supply

Turning off the main water supply in a home is a crucial step that many DIYers skip. This can leading to water damage and costly repairs. Always remember to locate and turn off the main water supply valve before beginning any plumbing work to avoid a failed DIY project.

Using the Wrong Size Pipes

Pipe sizes are important for proper water flow and can cause issues if not properly sized. Using pipes that are too small can lead to reduced water pressure and pipes that are too large can lead to increased water usage and higher bills. Make sure to use the correct size pipes for your plumbing project to avoid a failed DIY.

Not Using Proper Seals and Connectors

Leaky pipes can cause serious water damage and can be costly to fix. Using proper seals and connectors can help prevent leaks and ensure that your plumbing is secure. Make sure to use Teflon tape or pipe dope on threaded connections and use the appropriate size and type of connector for your pipes to avoid a failed DIY.

Not Properly Securing Pipes

Pipes that are not properly secured can lead to damage and leaks. Use pipe hangers or straps to secure pipes to the wall or floor to prevent movement and potential damage and avoid a failed DIY.

Over-tightening Pipe Connections

While it’s important to secure pipes properly, over-tightening them can cause damage and lead to leaks. Make sure to tighten connections just enough to create a secure seal and avoid a failed DIY.

Not Using a Pipe Cutter Properly

A pipe cutter is a crucial tool for cutting pipes accurately and evenly. However, if not used properly, it can lead to uneven cuts and misaligned pipes. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a pipe cutter to avoid a failed DIY.

Using the Wrong Type of Pipes for the Application

Using the wrong type of pipes for a plumbing project can lead to serious issues. For example, using PVC pipes for hot water can cause them to become brittle and break. Make sure to use the appropriate type of pipes for your plumbing project to avoid potential problems.

Ignoring Professional Plumbing Code Regulations

Ignoring professional plumbing code regulations can lead to serious problems and costly repairs. Make sure to familiarize yourself with local plumbing codes and follow them to ensure that your DIY plumbing project is safe and up to code.

Not using a pipe wrench correctly

A pipe wrench is a crucial tool for gripping and turning pipes. However, if not used correctly, it can lead to stripped pipes and leaks. Make sure to use the proper size pipe wrench for your pipes and apply even pressure to avoid damaging them.

Not properly cleaning pipes before making a repair

It’s important to properly clean pipes before making a repair to ensure that the repair will hold. Use a pipe cleaner or sandpaper to remove any dirt or debris from the area that needs to be repaired.

Using the Wrong Type of Pipes for the Application

Using the wrong type of pipes for a plumbing project can lead to serious issues. For example, using PVC pipes for hot water can cause them to become brittle and break. Make sure to use the appropriate type of pipes for your plumbing project to avoid potential problems.

Ignoring Professional Plumbing Code Regulations

Ignoring professional plumbing code regulations can lead to serious problems and costly repairs. Make sure to familiarize yourself with local plumbing codes and follow them to ensure that your DIY plumbing project is safe and up to code.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Plumber in Minneapolis St. Paul, MN: Avoiding Common DIY Mistakes

DIY plumbing can be a tempting option for homeowners looking to save money on repairs. However, as demonstrated in this video, DIY plumbing can often lead to more problems if not done correctly. From forgetting to turn off the water supply to using the wrong size pipes, these common DIY plumbing fails can result in water damage, costly repairs, and even safety hazards.

In Minneapolis St. Paul, MN, hiring a professional plumber like Dean’s Home Services can help ensure that your plumbing is done safely and correctly. With their expertise and experience, a professional plumber can help prevent DIY plumbing fails and ensure that your plumbing is functioning properly. So next time you have a plumbing issue, consider hiring a professional plumber like Dean’s Home Services to avoid the risks and frustration of a failed DIY project.