It’s so tempting to fix that clogged sink by yourself, isn’t it? A short trip to the store for some caustic drain cleaner sounds just right. But before you attempt to fix your own plumbing, there’s something you should know. It’s surprisingly easy to do costly damage when you engage in DIY plumbing repairs — even one so simple as a clogged sink. Here are three big plumbing mistakes frequently made by well-meaning homeowners.

Using Caustic Drain Cleaners on Clogs

Drain cleaners are corrosive by nature. It’s what makes them work so well. But when you use them over and over again to fix tough clogs, you can do real damage to galvanized pipes. And while it’s inexpensive to buy a bottle of drain cleaner, having to re-pipe your bathroom because of it is costly. Additionally, products like these go down your drains and into your septic system where they can kill off the anaerobic bacteria needed to break down waste. This means you’ll have to pay to have your tank pumped more often.

Failing to Obtain Proper Permits for Plumbing Improvements

If you do need to re-pipe your bathroom, you’ll need a permit from the city to ensure the work is done to code. Otherwise, when it’s time to sell your home, you’ll have un-permitted improvements that realtors and buyers typically avoid like the plague. Permits are pricey, but they increase the re-sale value of your home. As a bonus, they keep your projects on track with inspections by licensed professionals.

Using the Toilet As a Trash Receptacle

Toilet drains and septic tanks are finicky. They don’t like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, or even those personal care wipes that say “flushable” on the label. Flushing cat litter is a bad idea, too. The only things that should ever be flushed down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Otherwise, you may find yourself trying to snake a drain line that’s 10 feet or longer in length. Or, better yet, just call a professional plumber to do it for you.

If you’re struggling with plumbing repairs in Gainesville, Florida, let J.W. Freeman Plumbing help. Since 2008, we’ve provided Gainesville and the surrounding areas with fast, reliable plumbing repairs at reasonable costs. A recipient of the Angie’s List Super Service Award for five years running. J.W. Freeman Plumbing is your go-to choice when things go wrong. Call us today to schedule a service visit.