How to Avoid Rookie Plumbing Mistakes

Introduction

Plumbing problems can occur without warning and cause extensive damage if not addressed quickly. As a homeowner, you may be tempted to try fixing minor leaks or clogs yourself to save money on hiring a professional. However, repair mistakes made by inexperienced DIYers often lead to even bigger issues down the road. Learning how to avoid amateur mistakes is crucial for preventing plumbing disasters.

This guide will outline common rookie plumbing mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them. With some basic knowledge and preventative care, you can catch problems early and know when to call in a trusted pro. Protect your home and wallet by steering clear of these all-too-common DIY plumbing pitfalls.

Mistake #1 – Using the Wrong Tools

One of the biggest mistakes rookie plumbers make is using the wrong tools for the job. Taking a DIY approach to plumbing repair means having the proper equipment. Otherwise, you risk botching the job and exacerbating the issue. Here are some guidelines for using the right tools:

Avoid improvising or “making do” with on-hand tools – Pipe wrenches, basin wrenches, and other specialized plumbing tools are designed specifically for the types of tightening, loosening, and maneuvering involved. Improvised tools are more likely to strip pipes or miss the source of leaks.
Invest in high-quality tools – Cheap wrenches, snake cables, and cutters often break, warp, or fail to grip properly when put to heavy use. Go for durability and trusted brands.
Use tools properly – Simply owning the right tool is not enough – you must also know proper handling. For example, avoid overtightening joints with excessive force.
Maintain tools – Keep tools clean, lubricated, and stored properly to preserve effectiveness. Dull blades and warped cables won’t produce good results.

Having the right plumbing tools for the task makes repair jobs much smoother. It also reduces the chance of damaging pipes and fittings. Don’t take shortcuts – the specialized tools pros use are necessary.

Mistake #2 – Ignoring Building Codes

Another common rookie mistake is failing to check local building codes before plumbing work. Building codes exist to protect public health and safety by setting baseline standards. Ignoring code requirements can lead to dangerous plumbing situations and legal issues. Make it part of your repair process to identify and follow relevant codes, including:

Pipe sizing – Improperly sized pipes reduce water flow and clog more easily. There are minimum pipe size requirements for supply and drain lines.
Ventilation – Failure to properly vent drains, gas lines, and sewer gases can lead to hazards. Venting requirements depend on pipe layout.
Permit requirements – Major replumbing or installing new fixtures may require city/county permits and inspections. Avoid fines by checking rules.
DIY restrictions – Some jurisdictions limit homeowner DIY plumbing to prevent hazards. Check if pro supervision or takeover is required.
Material regulations – From pipe types to fixture standards, locality codes dictate approved materials to use. Don’t substitute.

Think of building codes as mandatory guidelines, not suggestions. Planning your DIY project to abide by them is essential. Consult your local authority if unsure.

Mistake #3 – Poor Pipe Planning

Rookie plumbing mistakes often start with poor planning in laying out pipes. Failing to map an efficient pipe system makes for uneven water flow, premature wear, and difficult repairs. Follow these planning guidelines:

Map piping strategy beforehand – Sketching the pipe layout lets you identify potential issues and corrections before cutting.
Mind the basics – Slope drain pipes at 1/4 inch per foot grade for proper drainage. Support piping securely to avoid sagging.
Choose efficient routes – Take the most direct paths between fixtures and water sources to optimize flow. Avoid crisscrossing pipes or overly complex mazes.
Select proper materials – Consider pipe material durability, flow capacity, and code acceptability. Never mix steel, copper, and plastic randomly.
Install adequate valves – Enough shutoff valves make isolating and repairing segments easier. They also limit impact of leaks or bursts.
Allow room for maintenance – Especially around valves and fittings, leave space to access components later for repairs.

Marking out your strategy beforehand and sticking to basic piping principles will achieve better system performance and lifespan.

Mistake #4 – Neglecting Access Panels

Failure to install bathroom or kitchen plumbing access panels is another oversight that soon becomes regrettable. Access panels (basically removable cabinet panels) allow easy servicing of water and drain lines down the road. Avoid repairs that entail cutting open walls later by utilizing access panels during your DIY bathroom or kitchen plumbing project.

Locate panels near shutoff valves, traps, joints and other service points that may need maintenance.
Check that panels are large enough and situated for a person to reach through comfortably to the pipes behind.
Secure panels so vibration does not loosen them but ensure they open easily without tools.
Label panels discreetly so future homeowners are aware of their purpose.

Take time upfront to include well-positioned access panels everywhere plumbing runs are concealed. Doing so avoids costly and messy wall demolition when repairs are needed down the road.

Mistake #5 – Forgetting Safety Gear

Plumbing projects involve dealing with water, electricity, pipes under pressure, and other hazards. Failing to wear proper safety gear exposed DIYers to injury risks. Never take on a plumbing job without equipping yourself with protective equipment, such as:

Eye protection – Goggles defend against debris when cutting or soldering pipes. They also seal out irritating fluxes and oils.
Work gloves – Leather or rubber gloves protect hands from sharp pipes, hot soldering tools, and harsh cements.
Ear plugs – Reduces hearing damage from power tools and equipment during extended use.
Dust mask – Particularly for cutting cast iron or cement pipes, masks filter out harmful particles.
Knee pads – Crawling around under sinks and in tight spaces can bruise and scrape knees without padded protection.
Hard hat – Overhead hazards like pipes or tools falling mandate hard hat safety.
Rubber boots & gloves – When working with water lines or electricity, waterproof rubber boots and gloves help avoid shocks and keep dry.

Saving a few bucks by skipping on safety essentials is never wise. Investing in protection now prevents severe repercussions later.

Mistake #6 – Using the Wrong Materials

Attempting plumbing repairs with subpar or inappropriate materials often backfires or fails prematurely. Stick to quality materials designed for the specific job. Here are some guidelines:

No lead – Any new pipes, solders, or fittings used must be certified lead-free. Lead causes severe health risks.
PVC/CPVC vs. ABS – Know proper uses (drain vs. supply) and code limits before applying either plastic pipe type.
GALV or brass vs. black iron – Galvanized and brass pipe lasts considerably longer than corroding black iron.
Never mix metals – Copper, steel, and iron pipes should not contact each other and cause galvanic corrosion.
Solder properly – Apply only approved, lead-free fluxes and solders designed for potable water lines.
Use dishwasher safe tubing – Vinyl, braided stainless tubes won’t corrode from dishwasher heat and chemicals.
Condensation-proof ducting – Insulated ducts preventdripping from HVAC systems condensing inside.

Cutting corners on material quality or using the wrong ones for an application can bring about much larger headaches (and costs) later on.

Mistake #7 – Ignoring Fixture Ratings

Every plumbing fixture you purchase, whether it’s a faucet, toilet, tub, or sink, carries rated capacities that should guide your installation. Ignoring these ratings leads to problems like:

Insufficient water flow or pressure – If fixture capacity exceeds supply line capacity, flow will suffer.
Leaking and flooding – Overwhelming fixtures with higher supply pressure or temps than rated for damages seals.
Clogged drains – Undersized drain lines restrict waste flow, causing backups.
Damaged components – Excess electrical/water flow stresses internal parts beyond capacity.
Void warranties – Manufacturers won’t cover failures caused by exceeding rated limits.

Being mindful of and following all flow rate, pressure, temperature, drain line, and electrical ratings enables optimal fixture performance and lifespans.

Mistake #8 – Do It Yourself Bravado

Beginner DIYers often suffer from bravado – overconfidence in their limited abilities. Attempting repairs beyond your skill level and tools usually compounds the problem. Here is what too much DIY bravado leads to:

Botched jobs requiring expensive re-repairs
Permanent damage to plumbing systems
Major flooding and water damage if pipes burst later
Sewage backups making home unlivable

Know your limits! If a plumbing task requires:

Large equipment you don’t own
Intense demolition/alteration efforts
Difficult access to pipes
Major excavation or foundation work
Multiple live gas or water lines manipulated

…leave it to the pros! Paying for expert repairs now is cheaper than fixing major disasters caused by overzealous DIY mistakes.

Mistake #9 – Skipping Permits

Many rookie DIYers falsely believe permits are only for pros. But skipping permits for any major plumbing addition or alteration is unwise. Avoid fines and liability by obtaining proper permits, which:

Allow code officials to inspect for violations or hazards before use
Provide legal liability protection should certified work later cause damages
Protect homeowners by ensuring licensed pros perform restricted tasks
Prevents having to tear out unapproved work after the fact

Check with your local building department on what plumbing works require picking up permits. Common examples are:

Re-piping supply or drain lines
Relocating fixtures like tubs or toilets
Adding new bathroom or kitchen fixtures
Installing water heater or softening system
Building outdoor kitchens or home spas

Permits add a brief wait for approved inspection but are worthwhile. Ensure you’re covered by permitting plumbing projects properly.

Mistake #10 – Ignoring Maintenance

The final common rookie plumbing mistake is neglecting preventative maintenance. Without periodic upkeep:

Drain clogs build up until major blockages occur
Small leaks worsen and cause mold or rot
Hard water scale slowly reduces pipe flow and appliance efficiency
Sediment erodes and corrodes pipes over time

Stay proactive via routine plumbing maintenance:

Clear drains regularly – Use enzymatic cleaners monthly to dissolve organic buildups before they clog.
Inspect for leaks – Check under sinks annually for any signs of water damage indicating silent leaks.
Descale pipes & heaters – Remove hardness scale before it causes reduced flow or heater failure.
Flush systems – Yearly flushing removes corrosion particles and other debris.

Don’t wait for complete failures. Schedule maintenance as the best way to catch plumbing problems at early stages.

How to Avoid Rookie Plumbing Mistakes: FAQs

Q: What plumbing repairs should I never try myself?

Electrical-related repairs like water heater elements and well pumps require professional expertise for safety. Gas lines also cannot be DIYed in most areas due to licensing laws. Finally, sewer lateral repairs under concrete foundations is better left to those with excavation experience and equipment.

Q: How do I locate my main water shutoff valve?

The main shutoff is usually located where the main water supply enters the home, often the basement. Other common spots are the garage, crawlspace, or an exterior wall. Trace the largest supply pipe back to find it. Clearly label it for quick access during leaks.

Q: What causes banging or hammering noises in pipes?

Called water hammer, the banging sound comes from fast-closing valves sending shockwaves through plumbing lines. Adjust valve closure speed, anchor pipes more securely, or install water hammer arrestors to absorb the damaging forces.

Q: Why does my drain keep clogging after using chemical drain cleaners?

Chemical cleaners can damage pipes and cause obstructions from the dissolved gunk. Use plastic drain snakes orZip-It tools to remove hair mechanically. Enzymatic cleaners digest organic buildup without harming pipes.

Q: How do I solder copper pipes properly?

Use lead-free flux over cleaned pipe ends, apply heat evenly until flux bubbles, then add solder until it flows smoothly into joint gaps. Allow proper cooling time and don’t move pipes before the solder sets fully.

Q: What causes low water pressure and how do I fix it?

Common causes are undersized pipes, excessive bends/elbows, or partial blockages. Check a pressure gauge at your main inlet after removing all filters. If pressure is low there, call a pro to evaluate and improve household flow and pressure.

Conclusion

While basic plumbing repairs may look simple on TV home improvement shows, rookie DIY mistakes can quickly escalate troubles. By avoiding mistakes like improper tools or materials, underestimating skill level required, or ignoring codes, you improve the odds of plumbing success. Patience, planning, and precaution go a long way.

Know when to call for professional assistance rather than risking serious system damage or injury. And above all – exercise caution and common sense whenever tackling DIY plumbing projects. Following sensible practices will lead to many years of service from your reliable home plumbing.