5 Cool and Handy Plumbing Tricks

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When it comes to the plumbing system in a home, you probably have little knowledge of how the system works and what repairs you can do yourself. Most homeowners find out the hard way that some plumbing repairs should be best left to the experts. However, there are ways that homeowners can update plumbing and complete repairs with ease. Check out a few handy tips below to learn more about what you can tackle in the home. 

Replacing Lines

If you are working replacing drain lines, under a kitchen or bathroom sink, consider replacing the metal lines with plastic. The plastic option is easier to install, more affordable and easier to adjust if a leak were to develop. Metal will corrode while plastic stays the same, making it a better alternative. If you have a leak already with metal piping, replace it with plastic for a better overall system. 

Use Heat on Stuck Pipes

Are you trying to complete a simple pipe job but the threaded connection is stuck? Plumbers suggest using heat to get movement going. On metal pipes, using a heat source like a blow torch will allow you to apply heat to the pipe and the surface will be ready to twist and remove the piping. Only use this method on water and waste pipes, not gas or fuel. 

Don’t Overtighten Supply Lines

Most people think supply lines need to be super tight to be effective. But that is not true. Never overtighten supply lines when installing new ones or after an installation. A loose connection can easily be tightened, but overtightening can damage the rubber seals and threaded nuts will crack. Do a proper connection without overtightening to avoid issues. 

Get New Supply Lines

CBDPlumbers recommends that supply lines be replaced when you are installing a new faucet or toilet. Any plumber will tell you that if you reuse the lines, you may end up with a ton of water damage. Plastic can degrade over time, so using old lines can result in a leak that leads to water damage. New lines are created with stainless steel that is braided to provide an added layer of protection and better for your system than worn out lines. 

Avoid Plumber’s Putty

Despite the product being named after plumber’s, the traditional plumber’s putty you find in the store is not what plumbers use. The putty can actually damage some types of surfaces as well as plastic materials. By using silicone caulk, you have a material that will be safer and last longer as a sealant than putty. The putty can also dry out and tend to crack which leads to more issues. 

While you may not be a plumber, you can still complete tasks around the home. The internet can easily be your guide, including plumbing videos on YouTube directing you how to complete easy DIY repairs. Keep the above tips in mind when completing such repairs so you can ensure your plumbing project is completed in the best way possible!

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