6 Common Plumbing Mistakes That Cost Homeowners Real Money

Six avoidable plumbing mistakes are using drain cleaner without checking the label, overtightening fittings, flushing wipes, leaving hoses connected in winter, joining incompatible metals incorrectly, and starting work without a shutoff plan. Each has a practical prevention step.

By Steve Grohn. Published June 10, 2026. Updated November 12, 2026.

1. Using a drain cleaner without checking the label

Products and plumbing materials differ. Some drain cleaners are formulated for standing water and certain pipe materials, as Drano’s product FAQ explains. Read the exact product label and check compatibility with the fixture and plumbing. Never mix cleaners. Do not plunge, snake, or open a drain containing cleaner; it can splash onto you. Tell your plumber which product was used before any work begins. A recurring blockage deserves diagnosis rather than repeated treatment.

2. Overtightening fittings

Excess force can crack fittings or damage a seal. Follow the instructions for the exact connector. Tapered pipe threads may require an appropriate thread sealant, while compression fittings and gasketed supply nuts seal at the ferrule or gasket, not with tape on their threads. BrassCraft’s instructions and FAQs distinguish connector types.

If a connection leaks, shut off the water and inspect it. Replace a damaged connector rather than tightening indefinitely. Call a plumber if you are unsure how the fitting seals.

3. Flushing wipes

Put wipes in the trash, even when the package says flushable. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency warns that wipes do not degrade in the sewer system. Use the toilet for human waste and toilet paper.

4. Leaving hoses connected in winter

Disconnect hoses before freezing weather, including from frost-free faucets. If the outdoor line has an interior shutoff and drain, close and drain it as appropriate. A frost-free faucet reduces risk only when installed correctly and able to drain. See our frozen pipe guide for more prevention steps.

5. Joining dissimilar metals incorrectly

A direct connection between incompatible metals can promote corrosion. Ask a plumber to select an approved transition fitting for the specific materials and installation, and inspect older galvanized lines if corrosion is a concern.

6. Starting work without a shutoff plan

Locate and label the main shutoff before a project. Check that household members know where it is. Do not force a stuck, corroded, or leaking valve; arrange service before starting the repair. The EPA’s winter guidance recommends knowing where the shutoff is before an emergency.

For help with a repair, call 651-738-0580. A.J. Alberts provides written pricing before work and has no commissioned salespeople.