If your plumbing starts to give you fits, you may decide to try and make some of the repairs yourself. There are several plumbing mistakes many people make that end up costing them a lot more than if they would have just called a plumber in the first place.

Here are some common plumbing mistakes DIYers make:

Applying Force or Using Too Much Pressure

Applying too much pressure on a struck shut off valve will not solve the problem. Trying to force a slip nut or piece of loose piping can result in damage to not only the pipe you’re working on but others that are close to it. Take it easy and try to work it loose. Never force it.

Forgetting to Turn Off the Water

Trying to fix your plumbing with the water on is like trying to keep flour from going through a sifter. It rarely works, and if it does, you will end up with a mess. Turn the water off before you start messing with the pipes.

Overtightening Fittings

Don’t overtighten fittings or connections. This can cause them to strip or, in some cases, snap off altogether. Instead of bearing down to tighten things up, simply make them snug and then give a slight bit more pressure to seal it.

Starting the Work without the Right Tools

Always have the right tools before you start. This will keep you from having to leave halfway through the job to go to the hardware store to get a tool you need to make the necessary repairs. A professional plumber will have the right tools that make the job easy.

Not Replacing all the Worn Parts

Make sure you have all of the right parts. Don’t take for granted that only one part will be bad. If one part is worn, odds are others will be too. Replace them all at the same time, so you don’t have to repeat the job in six months.

Overusing Caustic Drain Cleaners

Avoid using caustic drain cleaners. If you can’t make the necessary repairs yourself, a professional will have to pick up where you left off. Odds are he will get stuck dealing with the nasty chemicals as well as the drain problem.

Call a Professional Plumber

Instead of risking making the most common plumbing mistakes, call a professional plumber and let them handle it. It will save you both time and money in the long run, and you won’t have to worry about cleaning up a huge mess.

Pipeline Restoration Plumbing Inc.

Pipeline Restoration Plumbing, Inc. has been serving Orange County since 2008. We have helped thousands of customers with repairing their slab leaks and protecting their water systems from future corrosion. You can count on us whenever you need our services. We are here to help!