Things To Look Out For to Avoid Plumbing Nightmares
Plumbing emergencies always occur when it is not convenient to be dealt with by a homeowner. Trying to install home plumbing appliances by yourself could quickly turn disastrous in case you happen to cause even further damage. Should a plumbing emergency catch you off guard, you will vow never to let it happen. This piece discusses several areas to regularly check on, thereby reducing chances of having plumbing problems in your household.
Know where your pipes are
Care should be taken while pounding nails and driving in those screws into walls as one could end up puncturing a supply or drain made of either plastic or copper. A stud sensor is very efficient as it also detects wirings and pipes. Another alternative is cutting a small hole in the wall which can in turn be patched to mark where piping has been done.
Use the right connector
Gas lines, surprisingly enough, are plumbing too! However, connecting a gas range or drier is not as easy as it seems. Things could easily go wrong when trying to hook up a flexible gas connector to the line and you realize that tightening it is a problem. You could even find out that the connector does not fit. This can be avoided by simply purchasing a universal kit for connection of a dryer or gas range. The kit basically contains adapters for use to transition supply of gas from the pipe to the appliance that is in use.
Do not go galvanic
Galvanic connection occurs when copper is linked to steel that is galvanized. The connection can, however, be trouble free for such a long time, but as soon as it is tight, the steel begins to corrode and in due course burst. The best solution to galvanization is dielectric union. This is a fitting that is safe as it links steel collar on the steel surface and copper collar on the copper surface thereby keeping the parts separate.
Use sealant
For a joint that does not require gluing or soldering, sealing is compulsory. Sealants are available in stores and can be efficiently brushed on the joints. They are better in ensuring tight joints.
Avoid over-tightening
Unlike what most people think, over-tightening is wrong. It could easily lead to damage of components. A cut and joint that is properly fitted and sealed does not require over tightening. Learn to rely on gluing, soldering and sealants more than excessive torque of wrench.
With the above to look out for, plumbing emergencies should no longer be a nightmare. However, if you do not trust your skill, call a 24-hour plumber to avoid extreme damage.