4 Mistakes That Will Compel You to Call an Emergency Plumber

26 January 2016
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Would you like to avoid the expense of calling a 24-hour plumber to fix a DIY project that has gone wrong? Avoid making the mistakes below.

Wrongly Joining Different Metals

It is possible to join plumbing pipes that were made from different metals (such as copper and steel). However, special care must be taken to use an appropriate connector so that those two metals do not get into contact with each other. Some DIY enthusiasts simply join the different pipes directly. Over time, the pipes can corrode and block the flow of water. This may cause the pipe to burst and necessitate emergency plumbing repairs. Avoid this problem by using a recommended connector to prevent different metal pipes from reacting with each other.

Forgetting the Disposal Plug

Garbage disposals have a plug that should be removed in case that disposal is going to be connected to a dishwasher. However, some homeowners overlook this simple step and make the connection without knocking out the plug. This can cause water to spill all over the floor once the dishwasher starts working. The resultant mess compels the homeowner to call an emergency plumber in his or her area.

Putting Weights on Fixtures

After installing a new plumbing fixture (such as a showerhead), some homeowners go an extra mile and place weights such as shampoo racks on those plumbing fixtures. Those weights can eventually rip the plumbing fixture out of its position. This can cause water to gush out from the broken fixture. Avoid this plumbing emergency by desisting from putting any weights on plumbing fixtures.

Stripping Threads

One plumbing skill that homeowners need to learn in order to avoid plumbing emergencies is to know when to use minimal strength during a DIY plumbing project. For instance, over tightening plastic or chrome drain components can cause the threads to be stripped. A leak will be noticed once such a damaged component is exposed to running water. The homeowner may worsen the problem by tightening the newly fitted part some more under the mistaken belief that the leak is due to insufficient tightening. This, of course, will result in a more serious leak. Such a homeowner will be compelled to call an emergency plumber.

You may need to get guidance from a plumber before you embark on a DIY plumbing installation or repair project. This will help you to avoid making the costly mistakes discussed above.

For more information, talk with a professional plumbing service, such as P1 Plumbing & Electrical.