Skip These Common Plumbing Mistakes

All homes have the occasional plumbing problem, and not every issue needs a professional like changing a showerhead or doing a minor fix to a pipe. However, doing your plumbing work comes with some risks. We want you to know the common mistakes so you can avoid them.

Mistake #1: Forgetting to turn off the water

Regardless if your repair is major or minor, it is important your first step be turning off the water to your home. Forgetting this crucial step causes an unnecessary mess, and creates additional pressure on the pipes in your home. This may be a simple step, but if you skip it, the pipe will turn into a sprinkler system in your kitchen or bathroom. There should be a main valve to your home located on the outside of the water meter.

Mistake #2: Mismatched pipes

Choosing pipes that are different sizes and just “making it work” could cost you big in the long run. Mismatched pipes are more likely to leak and corrode. Pipe measurements are precise. If the pipe is too big, it won’t flush correctly, and a pipe too small could result in clogging. The size also affects water pressure. So, what are your options when it comes to the plumbing in your home?

• PVC pipe is often used as the main supply to the house, but not in the kitchen because it can’t handle temperatures over 140 degrees.

• PEX tubing is flexible and cost-effective. It’s used in most modern installations and can handle both hot and cold temperatures.

• Grey polybutylene is rarely used in new homes because it has a tendency to split.

• Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is often used outdoors and for drainage, waste, or vent pipes. Most building codes do not allow this type of pipe, so it is rare in homes.

• High-density polyethylene is one of the toughest options available.

• Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride is more flexible than PVC. It is often used by industries and to carry drinking water.

• Copper comes in two sizes: M (used in most home projects) and L (generally underground)

• Green Apple Mechanical NJ are the experts you can trust. We have been serving the New Jersey area for years with professionalism and expertise. Customer service and care are always our number one priorities. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of your HVAC or plumbing needs call toll-free at 888-315-5564