It’s no surprise that clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems in Perth homes. Many DIYers reach for chemical drain cleaners as a quick fix, but harsh chemicals can damage pipes, corrode plumbing fittings, and even weaken older copper pipe systems.

Instead of pouring chemicals down the sink or shower drain, try safer options such as:

• Using a plunger

• Running hot water and baking soda followed by vinegar

• Using a drain snake or auger

Or, consider using safe homemade drain cleaners instead of harsh chemicals. If the clog persists, a professional plumber can clear it with advanced drain jetting services

One of the most overlooked common DIY plumbing mistakes is over-tightening. Many people believe “tighter is better” when it comes to pipe fittings, but cranking too hard with a pipe wrench or spanner can actually crack the fitting, strip threads, or weaken seals.

The result? Leaks, water damage, and even burst pipes. Instead, use teflon tape on threaded connections and tighten only until the connection is firm and snug. If you’re unsure, check our guide on types of plumbing pipes so you know which fittings you’re working with.

That dripping tap in your kitchen sink or bathroom sink might not seem like much, but even a small leak can waste thousands of litres of water each year. Left unchecked, a leaky tap can also cause significant damage to surrounding cabinetry or flooring.

Even a small water leak can turn into a bigger issue if ignored. If you can’t track down the source, book a leak detection service with Tunnel Vision. Our specialists provide fast, accurate water leak detection in Perth, saving you from costly repairs.

DIYers often underestimate the importance of using the right equipment for plumbing jobs. Using the wrong tools or even worse, improvising with household items, is one of the top mistakes that can damage pipes and fittings.

For example, using a standard spanner instead of a proper pipe wrench can round off fittings and make them impossible to tighten correctly. Likewise, skipping thread tape can lead to slow leaks that go unnoticed until they cause costly water damage.

If you’re set on tackling a DIY plumbing task, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Otherwise, leave it to a plumber who’s equipped to do the job properly.

Toilet paper is designed to break down in water, but baby wipes, “flushable wipes”, paper towels, cotton buds, and other items can cause major blockages in your plumbing. Many homeowners don’t realise how quickly these can accumulate in pipes, leading to clogged drains and sewer line issues.

Rule of thumb: only flush toilet paper and human waste. Keep a bin in the bathroom for everything else to avoid unnecessary plumbing issues.

Many Perth homeowners only think about their plumbing system when a problem arises. But neglecting regular plumbing maintenance is one of the biggest plumbing mistakes to avoid.

Simple checks, like inspecting exposed pipes for leaks, ensuring drains are running freely, and checking water pressure, can help you spot small issues before they turn into major problems. Insulating exposed pipes in winter can also prevent bursts during colder nights.

Scheduling routine inspections with a professional plumber is one of the best ways to protect your home and avoid costly repairs.

Some Perth homeowners don’t realise that gas plumbing is strictly off-limits for DIY. Attempting to repair or install gas fittings without a license is not only illegal, it’s extremely dangerous. Even a minor gas leak can lead to fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Always call a licensed professional to resolve your gas issues.

Everyone likes to save money, but cutting corners on plumbing work often leads to more expensive repairs later. Buying cheap plumbing fixtures, using poor-quality fittings, or attempting a repair without spare parts on hand can result in further damage.

Whether you’re planning a bathroom renovation or weighing up pipe relining vs replacement, it pays to invest in quality.

The good news? Most common plumbing mistakes can be avoided with a little awareness and preparation. Here are some useful tips to steer clear of costly errors:

• Know your limits: Simple jobs like replacing tap washers are usually fine for DIYers, but bigger plumbing projects should be left to the pros.

• Use the right tools: A proper pipe wrench, plumber’s tape, and the right fittings go a long way to preventing mistakes.

• Don’t ignore small problems: Fix leaks and slow drains quickly to prevent significant damage.

• Avoid harsh chemicals: Use natural methods or call a plumber for clogged drains.

• Schedule regular maintenance: Preventative plumbing maintenance is cheaper than emergency call-outs.