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Common Plumbing Mistakes to Avoid

Plumbing issues can be an inconvenience for homeowners. But some projects should be left to professionals. A dripping faucet or slow drain could result in water damage that requires expensive repairs.

DIYers make one of the most common mistakes by failing to turn off their water supply before beginning a project, and over-tightening galvanized pipes may cause them to crack or even break.

Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid if you plan on fixing or replacing your plumbing in your home or business. 

Broken Toilet

1. Not Using the Right Tools

Homemade or improper tools can damage both pipes and fixtures. A bent clothes hanger may seem like an effective solution to unclog a drain, but in reality it could push further clogs deeper into your system. Chemical drain cleaners don’t offer enough strength to unclog most clogs quickly enough and may lead to corrosion damage over time.

DIY plumbers who do their own work often make the mistake of failing to take necessary safety precautions, including wearing protective gloves, goggles and face masks when dealing with chemicals or contaminants. Furthermore, it’s essential that the appropriate tools are being used and be aware of your surroundings at all times in order to avoid injury.

Before beginning work on your plumbing, it’s best to shut off all water sources before beginning repairs. This step is especially essential when working with old or damaged pipes that may burst, while it’s wise to turn off both main water valves to ensure any leaks or bursts stop immediately and don’t cause extensive flooding and damage.

Before purchasing any new pipe materials or fixtures, it’s a wise idea to research their compatibility. Copper and galvanized steel do not mix well and may corrode quickly when exposed. In addition, purchasing suitable connectors and adapters to ensure all of your pipes fit securely together is crucial to their proper installation.

Finally, it’s essential that anything other than waste, toilet paper and human sewage be flushed down your drains. Debris such as grease, fats, oil, coffee grounds egg shells pasta scraps can clog your drains over time causing serious problems down the road.

2. Overtightening the Nuts on the Toilet Bolts

Bolts that connect a toilet tank to its bowl should be tight enough so as to be easily removable, but should not be so tight that removing it becomes impossible. If your toilet leaks from the bottom or wobbles frequently, this may indicate one or more loose bolts that require tightening;

Before doing this however, ensure the water supply has been turned off and empty tank before tightening any bolts; additionally be sure to apply waterproof sealant around its base before tightening them further.

To avoid over tightening toilet bolts, use a wrench to slowly tighten them one quarter turn at a time until all bolts have been tightened evenly – this way you can regularly check to make sure they need further tightening or not.

Furthermore, ensure both sides of each bolt get tightened at an equal pace so as to prevent one side becoming too tight while leaving another too loose.

If you’re having difficulty tightening a loose toilet bolt, try applying penetrating oil and leaving it alone for three to four hours before using pliers to loosen the nut using moderate pressure or tapping on its end with a hammer to release it.

Once your nut is loose, use your wrench to tighten it with care. Be careful not to overtighten as this can crack the porcelain of both tank and bowl as porcelain does not bend under pressure causing it to fracture.

If your toilet still leaks after tightening its bolts, it could be something other than loose bolts that is to blame; perhaps an issue with its rubber seal or flush valve.

In this instance, professional plumbing assistance should be sought to evaluate and resolve it, replacing any problematic components as soon as possible to guarantee leak-free operation of your toilet.

3. Not Using Painter’s Tape to Cover the Toilet Flange Slots

Plumbing issues can range from leaky faucets and toilets that won’t flush to more serious issues like cracked tiles or missing fixtures; most issues can be dealt with without needing professional intervention; however, you should avoid certain mistakes in order to keep your home’s plumbing system operating at peak performance.

One of the most frequently committed DIY plumbing mistakes involves not creating an effective seal between the floor and toilet flange, leading to water seeping under and damaging the floor beneath, potentially leading to rot in its wake. You can avoid this scenario by using high quality caulk such as bathtub or shower caulk to seal bowl-to-flange joints properly.

One common misstep involves failing to affix the flange bolts with PTFE thread tape, which is vital in ensuring they won’t loosen over time. You’ll find it at most hardware stores and it is easy to use; simply make sure that you wrap clockwise instead of counterclockwise when wrapping.

Another plumbing mistake involves failing to install a new toilet wax ring. While this task is easy for most homeowners to complete, its importance cannot be overstated: A wax ring provides a much tighter seal between the toilet and floor and will help protect against leaks or rot that might occur over time.

Last but not least, another common misstep people make is flushing unsuitable materials down their toilets. While this may seem harmless at first, items like cotton swabs, wipes (even those labeled “flushable”) and other materials should always be avoided when flushing down your toilets.

When replacing an older toilet, first shut off the water before unbolting its tank, bowl, lid and water valve from under it. You should then use a small hacksaw to cut off any corroded or spinning bolts in your water closet; when this has been accomplished you can affix new flange and bolts using blue painter’s tape for stability.

4. Not Checking the Angle Stops

An issue like a dripping faucet, running toilet or leaky sink may seem simple for homeowners to resolve without professional help from plumbers; however, homeowners often make costly errors that lead to additional damage or costly repairs for themselves and their homes.

Mistakenly turning off their water supply before performing home plumbing repairs is one of the most dangerous mistakes people can make, potentially leading to severe flooding and property damage in mere moments. Without shutting off water first, pipes could burst and cause considerable damage before you call a professional plumber who can make the necessary repairs.

Another common plumbing mistake involves selecting the wrong kind or size of pipes for any particular task, like when installing new fixtures; using improper size can lead to clogging, as well as indulging in some DIYers who forget how to wrap PTFE thread tape correctly around their pipes, leading to unwinding and leaks down the line.

Homeowners frequently forget to inspect and replace their angle stops on a regular basis, which serve to regulate water flow throughout their homes and help control toilet flushes, sink drains and hot water heater usage. If left neglected, angle stops can become clogged up or broken entirely, leading to major water damage as well as overuse of plumbing systems in your home.

  • Using harsh chemicals to clean drains. This can damage your pipes and create more problems.
  • Pouring grease and oil down the drain. This can clog your pipes and cause backups.
  • Using too much toilet paper. This can also clog your pipes.
  • Not using a plunger properly. This can make the clog worse.
  • Not calling a plumber when you have a problem. This can lead to bigger problems and more expensive repairs.

If you’re not sure how to do something plumbing-related, it’s always best to call a professional. They will have the experience and expertise to do the job right and avoid costly mistakes.

Expert Services at Discount Prices

Our team of experienced professionals will provide you with quality plumbing services at a fraction of the cost. We guarantee our work and make sure you are satisfied with the results. So if you’re looking for a reliable plumber in Minneapolis or the surrounding metro-areas, look no further than Discount Plumbers!

Call the number below or Contact Us Here via our webform. We look forward to servicing you today.

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Sump Pump Installation

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you need to be prepared for any possible water damage. One of the most effective ways to protect your home from flooding is by installing a sump pump. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about sump pump installation.

What is a Sump Pump?

Why Do You Need a Sump Pump?

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding or heavy rainfall, a sump pump is a crucial investment for your home. A sump pump can help prevent water damage to your basement or crawl space, which can be costly to repair. Additionally, a sump pump can help protect your home’s foundation from water damage, which can compromise the integrity of your home.

A sump pump is a device that is installed in a basement or crawl space to prevent water damage. It works by pumping water out of your home and away from your foundation. Sump pumps are typically installed in a sump pit, which is a hole that collects water from the foundation and drains it away from your home.

 

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two main types of sump pumps: submersible and pedestal. Submersible sump pumps are installed in the sump pit and are designed to be completely submerged in water. Pedestal sump pumps, on the other hand, are installed outside of the sump pit and are not designed to be submerged in water. Submersible sump pumps are typically more expensive, but they are also more efficient and durable.

Choosing the Right Size

When it comes to sump pumps, size matters. You need to choose a sump pump that is the right size for your home and the amount of water that needs to be pumped. If you choose a sump pump that is too small, it may not be able to keep up with heavy rainfall or flooding. If you choose a sump pump that is too large, it may be inefficient and wasteful. It’s best to consult with a professional to determine the right size for your home.

Installation Process

Sump pump installation can be a complicated process, so it’s best to hire a professional. The installation process involves digging a hole for the sump pit, installing the sump pump and discharge pipe, and connecting the pump to an electrical outlet. A professional installer can ensure that the sump pump is installed correctly and safely.

Maintenance

Once your sump pump is installed, it’s important to maintain it properly. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your sump pump and prevent breakdowns. It’s recommended that you test your sump pump at least once a year and clean the sump pit and discharge pipe regularly. Additionally, you should have your sump pump inspected by a professional every few years to ensure that it’s in good working order.

Benefits of Sump Pump Installation

There are many benefits to installing a sump pump in your home. A sump pump can protect your home from water damage, prevent mold and mildew growth, and improve indoor air quality. Additionally, a sump pump can increase the resale value of your home and provide peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from flooding.

Cost

The cost of sump pump installation can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the type of sump pump you choose, and the complexity of the installation process. Generally, you can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 for sump pump installation. While this may seem like a high cost, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind and protection that a sump pump provides. Repairs may be cheaper. 

Avoiding Plumbing Drain Issues
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Avoiding Plumbing Drain Issues

Avoiding Plumbing or Drain Issues! Watch What You Flush/Pour Down the Drain.

You might think that flushing toilet papers or wet wipes won’t do any harm. But these “flushable” products can create clogs and damage your pipes. Additionally, avoid pouring any oil or grease down your sink. Instead, put it in a container or handy jar. You can also use strainers to keep debris and other particles from plugging the drain.
Test out your sump pump and make sure it is functioning properly by following these simple steps:
Pour a bucket of water into the pit where the sump pump sits. When it activates, drain the water. Then deactivate it.
If your sump pump didn’t work as it should, then you know that something’s off with your unit. Hire an expert plumber to take a look at the problem and fix it immediately.
Check for Leaks
Look for leaks around your home. Check the toilets, sinks, ceilings, and walls for any damp spots. This could indicate serious plumbing issues that need to be addressed quickly. Don’t let your money go down with a dripping faucet or broken pipes. Call your local plumbing contractor for an expert repair service.
Schedule a Maintenance Service
Living in a fast-paced environment makes it easier for us to forget our plumbing system. After all, as long as it’s working and there are no leaks, then it must be fine, right? Well, it isn’t exactly true. If you wait around for your system to malfunction, it could put your budget in a big hole.
With regular expert care, it can prevent costly repairs and future problems. Thus, you can have peace of mind and save more on your utility bills.
Other Ways to Avoid Trouble
Know where your home’s main water shut-off valve is. This way, you can quickly turn it off when there’s a leak.
Clean your shower head to improve the water pressure.
You can use vinegar and hot water to unclog any debris down your drain.
Don’t put hard food scraps and overload your garbage disposal.
Don’t let these plumbing issues trouble you and your family at any moment. If you experience a plumbing or drain problems call the professional plumbers at Discount Plumbers in the Minneapolis/Saint Paul Area.