Tired of dealing with the same plumbing problems in your house, such as leaking faucets, blocked drains, etc.?
Problems with the plumbing may be a significant nuisance, but they can be avoided by following a few basics "does" and "don'ts."
Knowing how to care for your plumbing system is crucial, regardless of whether you are a do-it-yourself enthusiast or prefer to leave things to specialists.
When it comes to plumbing maintenance and repairs, this article will provide helpful advice on what to do (and what not to do) and why these suggestions are so important.
The Dos
If you want to do your plumbing, there are some things you should know:
- Always use caution when working with gas lines. Make sure you know what you're doing before attempting any repairs.
- Be careful when working with drain lines. Always use a plunger or snake to clear clogs rather than chemicals.
- Ensure you have the proper permits before beginning major plumbing projects.
Here are some of the Dos you should always keep in mind:
Shut Off the Water
If a pipe bursts or you think there is a water leak, it's important to know how to shut off the water quickly to minimize damage. First, locate your home's main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to close it.
If you can't find the main shut-off valve, look for the water meter and turn the knob next to it clockwise. Once the water is shut off, open all your home's faucets to release any built-up pressure in the pipes.
Protect Your Eyes and Hands
If you plan on doing any plumbing work, taking care of your eyes and hands is important. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Wear safety glasses or goggles when working with any chemical cleaner, including drain cleaners. Splash guards can also help protect your eyes from corrosive liquids.
Wear gloves when handling harsh chemicals, such as drain cleaners. You should also wear gloves when working with hot water pipes, as they can cause burns.
Be careful not to put your hands or fingers near moving parts, such as garbage disposal blades. If you need to reach into a small space, use a tool instead of your hand.
Keep your hands clean and dry when working with plumbing fixtures and pipes. This will help prevent infections if you cut yourself.
Practice Tool Safety
If you're a beginner plumber or someone who only works with tools sometimes, it's important to remember to practice tool safety. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
DO:
- Read the instructions that come with your tools before using them.
- Wear protective gear when using tools, such as gloves, goggles, and earplugs.
- Be aware of your surroundings and ensure no one near you could be injured by flying debris or other hazards.
- Keep your tools in good condition and regularly inspect them for damage.
- Store your tools properly when not in use.
The Don'ts
If you're a homeowner, you know a thing or two about plumbing. But even the most experienced DIYers can make plumbing mistakes.
Here are some things you shouldn't do when it comes to your home's plumbing:
- Don't use chemical drain cleaners. These harsh chemicals can damage your pipes and make your clog worse. Instead, try using a plunger or a plumber's snake.
- Don't pour grease down the drain. Grease can harden and clog your pipes over time. Dispose of grease in the trash instead.
- Don't ignore leaks. Even small leaks can waste gallons of water and cause major damage to your home if left unchecked. If you see a leak, shut off the water and call a plumber immediately.
- Don't flush anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. Foreign objects can clog your toilet and cause major problems. Only flush toilet paper – nothing else!
Ignore Code Requirements
One of the worst things you can do during a plumbing job is to ignore code requirements. This not only puts your life at risk, but it could also result in serious injuries or even fatalities around you.
Ensure you are up-to-date on all local, state, and federal codes, and always adhere to them.
Cut Blindly
Be sure you know what's underneath the surface before cutting or drilling into a wall, ceiling, or floor. You should avoid cutting or drilling into cavities since they may conceal piping, wiring, or ducting.
Misuse the Tools
Only try to use a tool for what it was designed for. Misusing a tool may cause harm to the user and the tool itself.
Unsafety may also be caused by tools and equipment that need to be properly maintained. Before operating any powered tool or piece of machinery, be sure you've checked its condition.
- Use tools that are damaged or malfunctioning.
- Attempt to repair tools yourself unless you are qualified to do so.
- Use power tools without first understanding how they work and reading the manual.
- Operate power tools without proper safety gear, such as eye protection and earplugs.
Why Hire Mesa Plumbing Company
Mesa Plumbing Company has been in the plumbing business for decades. While you can DIY a few minor plumbing issues, it is always better to get things looked at by a professional plumber.
After all, they have the training and experience! The team at Mesa Plumbing Company will ensure that the job is well done and safely so you can stop worrying about your house!
Conclusion
Plumbing is a tricky task. Although you could take a shot at water leaks, there are some things that should be left to the professionals, like if you think there is a gas leak in your home!
Hiring a professional plumber will not only save you time but also money in the longer run. So, head on to Mesa Plumbing Company and start improving your home.