Plumbing projects that involve adding or updating plumbing to a home are very popular. Homeowners have to know what they’re doing before they begin. DIY plumbers will be more successful if they can research plumbing codes and avoid common errors.
Locate Local Plumbing Codes
Before beginning a project, homeowners need to research the plumbing codes that are required in their locality. The national plumbing code is mandatory. However, some regions may have other requirements. Blacktown Plumber codes can cover many different aspects of the plumbing systems, so it is important to ensure that everyone is paying attention. A plumbing inspection will not be passed if the homeowner does not install it according to code. Common code violations include:
- Not properly installing drain traps, resulting in sewer gases
- Poor material choices such as rubber, instead of copper, or PVC
- Improperly sized pipes. The drain line that flows into the sewer must be larger
- Not installing pipes with the correct slope
- Avoid placing fixtures too close together.
Weaken joists with pipes running through them, without increasing support
If homeowners do their homework in advance, they can avoid code violations. It is possible to run pipes through the framing by increasing the structural support. It is easy for inspectors and technicians to identify whether a sealant had been applied using purple primer.
Common DIY Mistakes
DIY plumbers are not always easy. They can make costly mistakes and end up with damaged pipes, water, and other problems. The most common errors homeowners make when installing or replacing their plumbing are:
- Burrs that are left on cut pipes may cause water pressure to drop and the pipe to be weaker
- Inadequate cleaning of copper pipes before installing
- Lead soldering of pipes for freshwater
Tools And Techniques For DIY Plumbing
There is a range of tools homeowners can use when they are doing DIY plumbing projects. Some tools are for repair and installation while others are for general maintenance. Here are some popular tools:
- Pipe wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Turn your sink
- Pliers
- Plumbers putty
- Plumbers tape
- Handler
- Plunger
A pipe cutter, hacksaw, or another tool may be needed if you plan on installing new pipes. For cleaning up burrs or cleaning out the inside pipe before it is installed, a wire brush and file may be necessary.
Installing New Water Lines To A Home
Replacing water lines can be dangerous, especially when it is only a minor repair. Copper piping should be used to connect the water main and the water heater. This section of line typically requires a pipe with a diameter of 34 inches. Placing a rubber washer between the copper and galvanized pipes will prevent them from colliding. This will stop pipes from reacting with one another.
For the water heater, you can use half-inch plumbing to connect various fixtures and appliances. You might want to measure the length and do a dry fitting for each step. This refers to putting the pipes together before attaching glue, tape, or solder. The material of the pipe will dictate the best way to connect it. When connecting multiple materials, it’s important to look into the right connectors.