Plumbing system installations for bathrooms and toilets are made up of different parts that must be installed
correctly for the system to function properly. These parts must be connected using the proper techniques and
materials for the system to hold water without leaks and operate correctly.
Today, most plumbing is made of steel, copper, or plastic. Plumbing is used to transport water, sewerage,
gas, and heating and cooling systems.
There Are Two Main Types Of Plumbing:
1. Freshwater Plumbing
Fresh water plumbing includes the pipes that carry water from the municipal water supply to the home.
2. Drainage Plumbing
Drainage plumbing includes the pipes that carry sewage and other wastewater from the home to the municipal sewer system or
septic tank.
Most homes have both fresh water and drainage plumbing. The freshwater plumbing system includes the main water supply pipe, the secondary water supply pipes, the water heater, and the fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers, etc.). The drainage plumbing system includes the sewer main, the house traps, and the fixtures (drains).
The main water supply pipe is usually made of copper or plastic. It comes into the home from the municipal water supply and runs to the water heater. From the water heater, it branches off to various fixtures in the house.
Common mistakes made during the plumbing and how to fix them.
Many mistakes can be made while plumbing.
Some Of The Most Common Mistakes Are:
1. Over-Tightening Connection
This is a common mistake made while plumbing. Over-tightening the connection can lead to leaks. Tightening too much can cause the connection to crack. The cracks may not appear immediately but will eventually result in a leak.
Plastic fittings are the most vulnerable to over-tightening. They break easily and can be a source of leaks. Over-tightening bolts can break other materials, such as porcelain.
It’s hard to fix an over-tightened connection. The best way to prevent this mistake is to be careful while tightening the connection.
2. Wrapping The Tape The Wrong Way
Tapes are used to create a water-tight seal between two surfaces. The most common type of tape is Teflon tape. When wrapping Teflon tape, it is important to wrap it in the direction of the thread, which is usually clockwise. Wrapping it in the anti clockwise direction will result in a poor seal and can cause leaks.
If you make this mistake, you will have to remove the tape and wrap it in the correct direction.
3. Forgetting To Turn Off The Water
This is a common mistake made while plumbing. Forgetting the water off can lead to serious problems such as flooding. High pressure flooding can damage your home and cause injuries.
Always remember to shut off the water before starting any plumbing work. Sometimes, the water can get out of control and flood other rooms in the house. You need to be careful not to flood your house because moisture can cause mold to grow.
4 Not Using The Right Tools
Not using the right tools can lead to many problems while plumbing. Using the wrong size wrench can damage pipes. Pipes can also be damaged by not using a pipe cutter correctly. Incorrect use of a soldering torch can melt pipes and cause fires.
It is important to use the right tools for the job. If you’re unsure which tool to use, ask a professional or consult a plumbing book.
5. Not Using The Correct Type Of Pipe
Many different types of pipes can be used for plumbing. Each type of pipe has its advantages and disadvantages. Some types of pipes are more durable than others, and some are better suited for certain tasks. Using the wrong type of pipe can lead to leaks or burst pipes. Therefore, knowing which type of pipe to use for your project is important. You have to replace the entire section of the pipe if it leaks or bursts.
6. Confusing Tees, Wyes, And Elbows
Tees, wyes, and elbows are all types of fittings that are used to change the direction of piping. They are often used interchangeably, but there are some important differences between them. Tees are the most common type of fitting and are used to connect three pipes. Wyes are used to connect two pipes at an angle. Elbows are used to connect two pipes that are going in the same direction.
You need to know when to use each type of fitting. Using the wrong type of fitting can cause bigger
problems. Research the different types of fittings before starting your project.
7. Not Venting Properly
Venting is essential in plumbing because it allows air to enter the system and prevents a vacuum from forming. Vacuum can cause water to be siphoned out of the system, which can lead to leaks. Improper venting can also cause pipes to make noise when water is turned on or off.
There are many ways to vent a plumbing system. The most common way is to use a vent stack. A vent stack is a pipe that goes from the drain up through the roof. Make sure that your vent stack is the correct size for your system. You should also check the local building codes to see what type of venting is required.
8. Lack Of Spare Parts
Before starting any plumbing project, it is important to have a few spare parts on hand. This will save you time if something goes wrong. Common parts that you should have are washers, gaskets, and pipes. You can usually get these parts at your local hardware store. Know the spare parts that you need for your project and have them ready before starting.
9. Starting With A Drain Cleaner
Drain cleaners are harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. They should only be used as a last resort. If you start with a drain cleaner, you will probably damage your pipes. Try other methods first, such as plunging or using a snake. If those don’t work, then you can try a drain cleaner.
10. Trying To Do It Yourself When You’re Not Qualified
Plumbing is a complex system, and many things can go wrong. You could worsen the problem if you’re not qualified to do the work. In some cases, you could even damage your home. It is always best to hire a professional plumber to do the work. They have the experience and knowledge to do the job right.
How To Fix And Hold Leaks While Waiting For A Plumber
Leaks have no warning. They can happen at the most inopportune moments. If water is spilling out from under your bathroom sink or a pipe in your basement has burst, you need to take immediate action to prevent further damage. But what do you do when professional help isn’t available right away?
1. Shut Off The Water:
The first step is to shut off the water supply to the affected area. If you don’t know where your main water shut-off valve is, now is the time to find it! Locate the valve and turn it clockwise to close it.
2. Clean Up The Water:
Once the water is shut off, it’s time to start cleaning up. Use a mop or towels to soak up as much water as possible. If the leak is coming from a pipe, you may be able to contain it by wrapping the pipe in a towel or rag.
3. Tighten Loose Connections:
If the leak is coming from a loose connection, try to tighten it with a wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could cause further damage.
4. Remove Any Rust:
If the leak is coming from a rusty pipe, you’ll need to remove the rust before you can patch the leak. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove as much rust as possible from the affected area.
5. Find The Source Of The Leak:
Once the water is shut off, it’s time to determine where the leak is coming from. This can be tricky, especially if water comes from a hidden pipe. Check all exposed pipes and fittings for leaks. If you can’t find the source of the leak, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.
6. Patch The Pipe:
If you’ve located the source of the leak, it’s time to patch it up. You can do this by wrapping the leaky pipe with different materials. They include:
- Pipe Bandage: This temporary fix will stop the leak until a professional can make a more permanent repair.
- Duct Tape: It can be used in a pinch, but it’s not the most reliable option.
- Hairdryer: Use a hair dryer to heat the pipe and seal the leak with the solder.
- Epoxy Putty: This is a good option for small leaks. Apply the putty to the affected area and allow it to harden.
Bottom Line
Plumbing mistakes can be costly. If you’re unsure what you’re doing, it’s always best to call a professional. They have the experience and knowledge to repair quickly and efficiently. In the meantime, use these tips to fix and hold leaks until help arrives. Some plumbing tasks, such as leaks, should be fixed temporarily while waiting for professional help. Remember to follow the right procedure when fixing leaks.