Plumbing is an integral part of any home. However, like any other structure, it can be prone to issues if not properly maintained. Homeowners often find themselves making common mistakes that can lead to significant problems down the line. Not only can these mistakes be costly to fix, but they can also put the safety and comfort of your home at risk.
Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, it’s important to be aware of these common plumbing mistakes. Avoiding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and a lot of unnecessary stress. Here are six common plumbing mistakes that homeowners often make.
Overusing Drain Cleaners
When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners reach for the drain cleaner. It seems like an easy solution, but overuse of these cleaners can lead to serious damage to your pipes. These chemicals are very harsh and can corrode your pipes over time, leading to leaks and other major issues.
Now, more than ever, it’s critical to take care of your home’s plumbing. With many of us spending more time at home due to the pandemic, our plumbing systems are under more strain. Using a plunger or a plumber’s snake is a safer and more effective way to deal with clogs.
Ignoring Small Leaks
Small leaks may not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly escalate into major problems. Many homeowners ignore these small leaks, thinking that they’re not worth the time or money to fix. However, these small leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and increased water bills over time.
As we become more conscious of our water usage and its environmental impact, it’s essential to address these small leaks. Not only will fixing these leaks save you money on your water bill, but it will also help conserve water and protect your home from potential water damage.
DIYing Major Plumbing Repairs
With the plethora of DIY videos and tutorials available online, many homeowners are tempted to tackle major plumbing repairs themselves. While it’s commendable to be hands-on, some plumbing issues require professional expertise. Attempting these repairs yourself can lead to more damage and more expensive repairs down the line.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it makes sense to limit the number of people entering your home. However, for major plumbing issues, it’s safer and more cost-effective to hire a professional. They’re trained to handle these issues and can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
Not Knowing Where the Main Water Shutoff Valve Is
One common mistake many homeowners make is not knowing where the main water shutoff valve is located. This valve controls the water supply to your entire home, and you’ll need to know where it is in case of a major leak or plumbing emergency. Not knowing where this valve is can lead to extensive water damage in the event of an emergency.
In today’s unpredictable world, it’s more important than ever to be prepared for emergencies. Knowing where your main water shutoff valve is can save you valuable time and potentially thousands of dollars in water damage repairs. It’s a small step that can have a big impact on your home’s safety and sustainability.
Flushing the Wrong Things Down the Toilet
Another common mistake homeowners make is flushing the wrong things down the toilet. Items like baby wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. These items don’t dissolve like toilet paper and can lead to clogs and sewer backups.
With the increased focus on hygiene due to the pandemic, it’s easy to overlook the impact that our actions can have on our plumbing systems. It’s crucial now more than ever to dispose of these items properly to prevent unnecessary strain on our sewage systems and potential plumbing issues in our homes.
Not Performing Regular Maintenance
Last but not least, many homeowners overlook the importance of regular plumbing maintenance. Just like your car, your home’s plumbing system needs regular check-ups to ensure it’s running smoothly. Skipping these check-ups can lead to undetected issues and more expensive repairs down the line.
As we continue to spend more time at home, the health and efficiency of our home’s systems, including plumbing, become increasingly important. Regular maintenance can help detect potential issues early, saving you time, money, and unnecessary stress in the long run.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
