Every homeowner wants a safe, functional home, but one area that often gets overlooked is plumbing. At Action Plumbing Heating Air & Electric, we see firsthand how small missteps can turn into costly problems. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 common plumbing mistakes homeowners make, explain the consequences, and share plumbing maintenance tips that can save you time, stress, and money.
By learning about these DIY plumbing errors, you can start preventing plumbing issues before they become plumbing emergencies. Let’s dive in.
1. Ignoring Leaky Faucets: A Slow Drip, A Big Plumbing Cost
A dripping faucet might seem like no big deal, but that steady drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year.
Why This Plumbing Mistake Happens:
Many people assume it’s just a washer issue and plan to fix it “later.” Others may not even notice until it’s been going on for weeks or months.
The Risks:
- Higher water bills
- Mold and mildew buildup
- Corrosion in plumbing fixtures
How to Avoid It:
- Tighten loose fixtures as soon as you notice them
- Call Action Plumbing Utah for a quick inspection if tightening doesn’t help
- Schedule regular plumbing inspections to catch small leaks before they worsen
Pro Tip:
Leaky faucets can also be a symptom of deeper water pressure problems or valve failures.
2. Using the Wrong Tools for DIY Plumbing Repairs
Trying to fix plumbing on your own? That’s fine, until you use the wrong wrench or over-tighten a connection.
Common DIY Plumbing Errors:
- Using chemical drain cleaners
- Over-tightening fittings
- Replacing drain pipes without proper sealing
- Skipping Teflon tape on threaded connections
What Can Go Wrong:
- Stripped threads and damaged fixtures
- Water Leaks that worsen over time
- Broken pipe connections leading to floods or pipe bursts
How to Prevent This:
- Stick to basic tasks like unclogging a drain or replacing a washer
- Watch reliable tutorial videos if you’re unsure
- Call in emergency plumbing services for anything beyond your comfort zone
Pro Tip:
Keep a beginner plumbing kit at home but know your limits. Action Plumbing Utah is just a call away when things get complicated.
3. Flushing the Wrong Things Down the Toilet
If it’s not human waste or toilet paper, don’t flush it. Period.
Common Items People Flush (That Shouldn’t Be):
- Baby wipes (even if they say “flushable”)
- Paper towels
- Feminine hygiene products
- Hair, cotton balls, and dental floss
What Happens:
- Clogged drains
- Sewer line backups
- Expensive plumbing repair costs
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Educate everyone in your household (especially kids)
- Place trash bins in every bathroom
- Invest in drain guards to catch hair and debris
Pro Tip:
Use a natural enzyme-based drain cleaner monthly to help break down buildup. Action Plumbing offers safe, plumber-approved solutions.
4. Forgetting to Shut Off the Water Supply Before Plumbing Repairs
This one’s a classic. You start unscrewing a valve and boom, a geyser in your bathroom.
Why It Happens:
People get in a rush or assume the small job won’t need a full shutoff.
Consequences:
- Water damage
- Mold growth
- Added stress and cost
How to Avoid It:
- Locate your home’s main shutoff valve now, before you need it
- Always turn off water for even minor repairs
- Use shut-off valves near fixtures for added convenience
Pro Tip:
If you’re unsure about which valve to shut off, call Action Plumbing. We offer quick services!
5. Skipping Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Out of sight, out of mind, right? Until your basement floods or your water heater dies.
Why This is a Mistake:
Plumbing systems work hard year-round. Without regular checks, small issues become major ones.
Potential Problems:
- Undetected leaky faucets
- Sediment in your water heater
- Cracked pipes or joints
- Poor water pressure
How to Stay Ahead:
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections
- Drain your water heater once a year
- Watch for warning signs like flickering water pressure
Pro Tip:
Sign up for a plumbing maintenance plan with Action Plumbing Utah. We’ll create a custom schedule based on your home’s needs.
Preventing Plumbing Issues Before They Start
Avoiding these five common plumbing mistakes takes awareness and action. Here are additional plumbing maintenance tips that can keep your system in great shape:
Bonus Tips:
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain
- Insulate pipes in cold weather to avoid pipe bursts
- Check your water bill for unexplained increases
- Learn to recognize the sound of running water when nothing is on
When to Call for Emergency Plumbing Services
Some problems can’t wait. If you’re facing any of these, contact us right away:
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Overflowing toilet or sink
- Burst pipe
- Water heater failure
Our licensed experts at Action Plumbing Utah offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to help you avoid long-term damage and costly repairs.
Understanding Plumbing Repair Costs
Nobody likes surprise bills. At Action, we keep our pricing transparent. Here’s what affects plumbing repair costs:
- Severity of the issue
- Time of day (emergency calls cost more)
- Parts and labor needed
- Accessibility of the problem area
We always provide estimates up front and help you weigh your options.
Why Choose Action Plumbing Heating Air & Electric?
We’ve helped thousands of Utah homeowners keep their plumbing safe, clean, and worry-free. Our licensed, insured pros offer:
- Same-day service
- Honest pricing
- Trusted plumbing inspections
- 24/7 emergency support
With over 30 years of experience, we know what Utah homes need.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Avoiding common plumbing mistakes is about taking simple steps and getting help when you need it. Whether you’re dealing with clogged drains, leaky faucets, or full system upgrades, Action Plumbing is here to help.
Stay ahead of problems with regular maintenance and expert support.
Ready to schedule an inspection or need help now? Contact Action Plumbing Heating Air & Electric today.