Owning a home in Sacramento is rewarding—but it comes with responsibilities, and plumbing is one area many homeowners overlook. A small mistake today can lead to major repairs tomorrow. At Flowrite Plumbing, we’ve experienced it all, and we want to help you avoid common pitfalls that can result in headaches, damage, and unnecessary expenses.
Ignoring Leaks
Even the occasional drip from a faucet or pipe can add up to rather serious problems over time, including inflated water bills, wrecked flooring or cabinets due to moisture, and mold growth. Regular plumbing inspections may prevent all these.
Pro tip: If you see a leak, don’t delay calling a licensed plumber.
Flushing the Wrong Items
Doing something as simple as flushing the wrong items down the toilet might bring dire plumbing implications. This could be something from paper towels to feminine hygiene products, among other things that don’t dissolve in water as quickly as toilet paper does.
Pro Tip: Your toilet isn’t your trash can.
Relying on Chemical Drain Cleaners
When a sink or shower drains slowly, it is very tempting to go for that bottle of chemical drain cleaner. These over-the-counter cleaners are harmful. They eat away at your pipes, and more often than not, the problem usually comes back.
Pro Tip: Scheduling regular drain cleaning with a professional.
Skipping Water Heater Maintenance
No one can afford to skip Water Heater Maintenance since the water heater is one of the most overworked appliances in your home. Even the smallest sediment buildup, leaks, or worn-out parts can reduce its efficiency and shorten its lifespan.
Pro tip: Make sure that you have it checked and flushed at least once a year. A little preventative maintenance could stop a costly replacement.
Overlooking Pipe Insulation
Even here in Sacramento, a basement, attic, or garage’s pipes might freeze and burst during one of those surprise cold snaps.
Pro tip: Insulate those pipes in unheated areas to avoid damage.
DIY Plumbing Without Experience
DIY tutorials are incredibly tempting, but one wrong step in plumbing can be very expensive. It can bring about leaks, water damage, and even code violations.
Pro tip: If you have to look up a video on how to do it, you need to contact a licensed plumber who understands the Sacramento plumbing codes and has the right tools for the job.