Common DIY Plumbing Mistakes You Should Avoid

water draining freely in an unclogged drain
Share

Most people attempt to fix common plumbing problems on their own, even if they lack the experience. Plumbers typically receive a call only when the homeowner has failed, or has made the problem worse.

The rule of thumb is unless you know what you are doing, it is best to call for plumbing contractors such as actionplumbing.net.

Here are some of the mistakes you might be guilty of making whenever you encounter a plumbing problem at your home.

Fixing a Clogged Toilet with the Wrong Tool

A drain snake is not the right tool for unclogging a toilet. Using a drain snake, a piece of hard wire or some other makeshift tool can damage your toilet. Calling the plumber would probably cost you little compared to replacing a toilet. If you have to DIY it, make sure you at least use a plunger first, and if that doesn’t work, use a toilet auger. If that still doesn’t work, call your plumber.

Overusing Your Garbage Disposal

The best way to make your garbage disposal last is to avoid using it to get rid of leftovers. Scrape your plates with a fork and throw out the leftovers in the trash. The garbage disposal is there to catch what you may have missed. If you must feed leftovers to the disposal, at least feed them one item at a time. If you feed it too much or feed it stuff that can tie it up, it is only a matter of time before it jams.

Using the Toilet for Garbage Disposal

Do not use your toilet for disposal of napkins, cotton balls, and bits of soap. Put a small garbage can in the bathroom for those. Those do not belong in the toilet and are sure to clog it up very soon.

Using Drains to Dispose of Grease and Oil

Do not pour used cooking oil or grease into your kitchen sink. Do not do it in the toilet either. Oil and grease tend to solidify when cold, turning into a sticky paste that will clog your drains. Pour it in used plastic bottles when it has cooled down, and throw it out with the rest of your garbage.

The best person to fix your plumbing problems is a professional plumber. You have to pay the plumber, but the fees are nothing compared to replacing different broken parts of your plumbing system.

Scroll to Top