10 common mistakes people make with their plumbing

Your plumbing is one of the most important systems in your home, and when something goes wrong, it can quickly become a major headache.

That’s why it’s important to be aware of the most common mistakes people make with their plumbing, so you can avoid them.

1. Not knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located.

Every home should have a main water shut-off valve, and it’s important to know where it is located in case of a leak or other emergency. If you don’t know where yours is, take a few minutes to find it now so you’ll be prepared in the event of an issue.

2. Overloading your garbage disposal.

Your garbage disposal is not a trash can, and trying to cram too much into it can lead to problems. Be mindful of what you’re putting down the sink, and avoid putting hard-to-grind items, grease, or fibrous foods into the disposal.

3. Using chemical drain cleaners.

While chemical drain cleaners can be effective in some cases, they can also damage your pipes and lead to more serious problems down the line. If you have a slow drain, try using a plunger or natural drain cleaner first before resorting to chemicals.

4. Ignoring low water pressure.

If you notice that your water pressure is lower than usual, it could be an indication of a bigger problem, such as a leak in your pipes. Don’t ignore it—have a plumber come take a look as soon as possible.

5. Flushing unwanted items down the toilet.         

The toilet is not a garbage can, and trying to flush things like diapers, sanitary napkins, or paper towels down it can lead to serious clogs. Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet.

6. Putting grease down the drain.

Grease may seem like it goes down the drain easily when it’s hot, but it will solidify as it cools and can lead to major clogs. Avoid putting grease down your drains— instead, dispose of it in the trash.

7. Overusing your dishwasher’s garbage disposal function.

Your dishwasher likely has a built-in garbage disposal, but that doesn’t mean you should use it for every meal. Disposables should only be used sparingly, and you should never use it to grind up hard-to-grind items like bones or poultry skins.

8. Not cleaning your showerhead.

You may not think about it often, but your showerhead can become clogged with mineral deposits over time, which can reduce water pressure. Clean it regularly with vinegar to remove the build-up and keep the water flowing freely.

9. Running water while shaving.

It’s a common habit to leave the water running while shaving, but it’s actually a waste of water and money. Turn the water off when you’re lathering up, and then turn it back on when you’re ready to rinse.

10. Taking too long showers.

Showering is one of the biggest uses of water in the home, so if you’re looking to conserve water, it’s important to keep your showers short. Aim for five minutes or less, and you’ll save both water and money.

These are just a few of the most common mistakes people make with their plumbing. By being aware of these issues, you can avoid them and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you do have a problem, however, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. They can help you fix the issue quickly and efficiently.

FAQs:

What is the most common mistake people make with their plumbing?

A: One of the most common mistakes people make does not know where their main water shut-off valve is located. In case of a leak or other emergency, it’s important to know where this valve is so you can turn off the water supply and prevent further damage.

Conclusion:

There are a number of mistakes that people commonly make with their plumbing, from not knowing where their main water shut-off valve is located to overusing their dishwasher’s garbage disposal function. By being aware of these issues, you can avoid them and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you do have a problem, however, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. They can help you fix the issue quickly and efficiently.