We’ve all made quick fixes and mistakes when it comes to plumbing, whether we are rushing out the door and toss that bacon grease in the garbage disposal, or it’s the weekend, and we don’t want to pay for emergency services even though the toilet hasn’t stopped running for two days. However, these common mistakes can actually do a bit of damage to your plumbing. Here we list a few of the top mishaps to avoid so that you don’t ruin your pipes and plumbing components.

Overestimating the abilities of your garbage disposal and toilet

In many instances, your garbage disposal and toilet can handle a lot. That’s what they’re built for after all, right? While these are impressive plumbing components in your home, you need to be mindful and treat them with care.

When you are using the garbage disposal, be sure you don’t overload it with food in one use and don’t dump grease or oily foods down the drain because a clog will develop when it solidifies. When it comes to your toilet, don’t flush everything such as hair, excessive amounts of toilet paper, cotton balls, feminine items, cotton swaps, and more. Even if the item is labeled flushable, like some baby wipes, it’s better to think twice because those products won’t always disintegrate fast enough to prevent a blockage.

Weighing down fixtures

Whether you have a shower caddy that holds twenty pounds worth of shampoo or you put all of your body weight into the sink handle each time you turn the faucet on, it’s time to make a mental note. You don’t want to apply unnecessary weight to fixtures because this will only wear them down faster and cause them to need a replacement sooner.

Not addressing small plumbing problems

Sure, some plumbing issues can be ignored for a little while, but the truth is, the longer you put it off, the worse it will get. Plus, in many cases, you’ll end up paying more when you finally do call for a plumbing repair because they’ll have to fix the original problem, as well as correct the areas that you’ve fiddled around with to stop the issue temporarily.

Not thoroughly understanding DIY repairs

Not knowing the best tools and methods for common issues will be a big problem if you are taking the “learn as you go” approach. If you want to avoid replacing plumbing components and calling in the pros, then make sure you understand what you are getting yourself into and take steps such as taking pictures to help guide you when putting parts back together. However, if you aren’t completely confident, then give the experts involved.

Whether you have a minor plumbing problem that needs to be resolved or you have a major one that needs immediate attention, call SSI at (703) 968-0606 or fill out our online contact form for fast and reliable services!