Avoiding Plumbing Mishaps
5. Common Pitfalls and How to Dodge Them
Even with the simplest of plumbing components, things can sometimes go wrong. Plugs are no exception. Let's look at some common problems associated with plugs and how to avoid them, because trust me, nobody wants a plumbing disaster.
One frequent issue is using the wrong type of plug for the application. Using a plastic plug in a high-pressure system, for example, is just asking for trouble. Make sure you understand the pressure and temperature requirements of your system before choosing a plug. It's like using a butter knife to cut a tree — just not going to work.
Another common problem is improper installation. Threaded plugs need to be properly tightened to create a watertight seal. Too loose, and you'll have a leak; too tight, and you risk damaging the plug or the pipe. It's a Goldilocks situation — you need to get it just right. Remember to use plumber's tape or pipe dope to help create a tight seal.
Corrosion can also be a major issue, especially with metal plugs. Regularly inspect your plugs for signs of rust or corrosion, and replace them if necessary. A corroded plug is a ticking time bomb, just waiting to fail at the worst possible moment. Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than a complete plumbing overhaul.
Finally, over-tightening, as briefly mentioned, is a HUGE issue. Many people think "tighter is better," but this is far from the truth. You can easily strip the threads, crack the fitting, or even break the plug itself. Snug is good, gorilla-tight is not. Be gentle!
