We see them every week: jobs that started as a quick weekend fix and ended as an expensive emergency call. Here are ten of the most common plumbing pitfalls we encounter on residential and commercial calls — and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Small Leaks
That tiny drip under the sink or the slow drip in the wall isn’t getting better on its own. By the time it’s a visible water stain on the ceiling, you’re looking at drywall, framing, and possibly subfloor repairs. Catch leaks early.
2. Using Drain Cleaners Aggressively
Caustic chemical drain cleaners can damage older pipes, especially galvanized or thin-walled PVC. Worse, they don’t actually clean the line — they punch a small channel through the clog. Pros use mechanical augers and hydro-jetting for a reason.
3. Flushing the Wrong Stuff
“Flushable” wipes are not flushable. Neither are paper towels, dental floss, cotton balls, hygiene products, or kitchen grease. They all eventually catch on something downstream and start a clog that grows over time.
4. DIY Gas Work
Gas lines require a licensed plumber, period. Improperly installed gas lines kill people. If you’re hooking up a new range, water heater, or BBQ — call a pro.
5. Wrong Pipe Materials
Mixing copper and galvanized without a dielectric union causes accelerated corrosion. Using PVC where it shouldn’t be — like on hot water lines — leads to early failure. Pipe materials are not interchangeable.
6. Overtightening Connections
The classic DIY mistake. Plumbing connections are designed to seal at a specific torque. Cranking down on a fitting until it “feels tight” cracks plastic and crushes brass.
7. Skipping the Permit
Water heater replacement, gas line work, and major sewer work all require permits in Washington state. Skipping the permit voids your home insurance for any related damage and shows up as unpermitted work in the next sewer scope or appraisal.
8. Over-Greasing the Drain
Pouring cooking grease down the drain is the leading cause of kitchen clogs. The grease cools, congeals, and combines with everything else flowing through the line until it forms a hard plug. Wipe pans with a paper towel before rinsing.
9. Ignoring the Water Heater
Water heaters need an annual flush to remove sediment, and the anode rod should be inspected every 3–5 years. Neglected water heaters fail early and often catastrophically — usually at 11pm on a Saturday.
10. Trusting the Cheapest Quote
Plumbing isn’t a place to hunt for the lowest possible price. The savings rarely materialize, and the do-overs are expensive. Hire a licensed, insured, locally-known plumber and pay a fair price for work that’s done right.
If you’ve already hit one of these pitfalls — don’t worry, we’ve seen worse. Call Stollwerck Plumbing & Sewer and we’ll fix it.