Let’s be honest—most of us don’t think much about our plumbing until something goes wrong. One day, everything works fine, and the next, there’s a clogged sink or a flooded floor. It happens more often than people admit, usually because of small habits that seem harmless.
In places like Pompton Lakes, where many homes have a mix of older piping systems and newer plumbing updates, these mistakes can catch homeowners off guard. With changes in weather and wear from daily use, plumbing systems can be more fragile than they look. The good news is that most of these issues are preventable. You just need to know what to look out for.
Let’s go over seven common plumbing mistakes many homeowners make without even realizing it—and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Slow Drains for Too Long
Slow drains are one of the first signs that something is wrong. Many people ignore them, hoping the issue will be resolved on its own. The truth is, it never does. Hair, soap scum, grease, and even small objects can build up over time. What starts as a slow drain can lead to a complete blockage.
Store-bought drain cleaners may seem like a quick fix, but they often do more harm than good. The chemicals in those products can eat away at your pipes, causing long-term damage. That’s why drain cleaning in Pompton Lakes is something you don’t want to skip. It’s a simple solution that keeps water flowing freely and prevents bigger issues from forming. Taking care of the problem early makes a real difference.
2. Using the Toilet Like a Trash Can
This one is more common than most people think. Many households treat the toilet like a second trash can. Flushing items like wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and hygiene products is a recipe for disaster. These materials don’t break down properly and can create blockages deep in the sewer line.
Even items labeled “flushable” can cause trouble. Most aren’t truly safe for your pipes. Over time, this habit can lead to major clogs that affect your entire plumbing system. It’s simple: if it’s not waste or toilet paper, don’t flush it. Toss it in the trash instead. You’ll avoid stress and save money on unnecessary repairs.
3. Forgetting to Check Water Pressure
Water pressure that’s too high can feel like a luxury, but it’s actually dangerous for your plumbing. Pipes, faucets, and even appliances aren’t built to handle extreme pressure for long periods. Over time, the extra force can wear out seals, cause leaks, or even burst pipes.
Most homes should have water pressure between 40 and 60 psi. You can buy a simple gauge from a hardware store to check yours. If it’s consistently too high, you may need a pressure-reducing valve. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting your system. Keeping pressure in check also helps your appliances last longer, which can save you thousands in the long run.
4. Not Knowing Where the Main Shut-Off Valve Is
In an emergency, every second matters. A burst pipe can leak gallons of water in just a few minutes. If you don’t know where your home’s main shut-off valve is, you’ll waste precious time trying to stop the flow. That delay can lead to serious water damage.
Every homeowner should know the location of the main valve. It’s often near where the water line enters the house. Once you find it, show it to other household members, too. It’s a basic step, but it can save you thousands in damage during a plumbing emergency. Some people even mark the area with a label or tape to make it easy to find.
5. Skipping Routine Maintenance
Plumbing systems work best when they’re maintained regularly. But many people take a “set it and forget it” approach. They don’t inspect pipes, drains, or appliances until something goes wrong. That’s when minor issues turn into major repairs.
Routine maintenance includes checking under sinks for leaks, testing water pressure, cleaning faucet aerators, and flushing water heaters. You don’t need to be a pro to handle these tasks. Just make it a habit to inspect your system a few times a year. Staying ahead of problems is always cheaper than fixing them after they’ve spread. Keeping a small maintenance checklist on your fridge or phone can help you stay consistent.
6. Over-Tightening Fittings
This mistake usually comes from a good place. People want to stop leaks, so they tighten fittings as much as possible. The problem is that over-tightening can crack fittings or damage threads. That can lead to slow leaks that go unnoticed until they cause serious water damage.
When installing or replacing fixtures, hand-tighten first. Then, give it a slight extra turn. If it still leaks, the issue might be a worn washer or a bad seal—not something you can fix just by tightening more. Use the right tools, and don’t force anything beyond what feels firm. It’s always better to fix it right the first time than deal with more issues later.
7. Putting Off Small Leaks
A dripping faucet doesn’t seem like a big deal. It’s just a few drops, right? But even a slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year. That adds up to your water bill. Worse, a small leak might be a warning sign of a bigger issue hidden behind the wall.
The longer you wait, the more damage can build up. Leaky pipes can rot wood, cause mold, and damage flooring. Fixing a faucet or sealing a joint takes very little time and effort. Don’t wait until it becomes a larger, more expensive problem. In many cases, the fix is simple and affordable.
It’s easy to overlook these common plumbing mistakes—especially when nothing seems wrong at first. But staying aware of your system and fixing small issues right away can prevent major headaches down the road. Taking action doesn’t just protect your home—it saves time, money, and stress.
If you’ve noticed slow drains, leaks, or high water pressure, it might be time for a quick check-up. A few small changes now can save you from a lot of trouble later. Don’t wait for a major leak or a burst pipe to take plumbing seriously. Pay attention, take action, and keep your home running smoothly.