Plumbing might seem straightforward, but one wrong move can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage, mold issues, and higher utility bills. Many Portland homeowners—especially those in older neighborhoods like Sellwood, Alberta, or Lents—unknowingly make costly plumbing mistakes trying to DIY or delay critical repairs.
Below, we break down the 10 most common plumbing pitfalls in Clackamas homes and how to avoid them.
1. Overusing Chemical Drain Cleaners
While it’s tempting to pour liquid drain cleaner into a slow drain, most commercial cleaners are highly corrosive and can damage older pipes—especially cast iron or galvanized systems commonly found in Portland homes.
What to do instead: Use a drain snake or enzyme-based cleaner. If the clog persists, contact a professional.
📚 Source: EPA Plumbing Maintenance Guide
2. Ignoring Small Leaks
A “minor” drip under the sink can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
What to do: Regularly inspect visible pipes, check under sinks and behind toilets, and address even small drips promptly.
📚 Source: EPA Fix a Leak Week
3. Improper Disposal of Grease and Food Waste
Pouring grease or oil down your kitchen sink can cause severe clogs in your home’s pipes and in Clackamas’s municipal sewer system.
What to do: Let grease cool, then scrape it into the trash. Compost food scraps or use the city’s green bins.
📚 Source: City of Portland – Grease Disposal Tips
4. Flushing Non-Flushables
Wipes, cotton balls, and even “flushable” products can clog your sewer lines. Clackamas’ sewer system is especially sensitive due to older underground piping.
What to do: Only flush toilet paper and waste. Everything else goes in the trash.
📚 Source: Portland Bureau of Environmental Services
5. Skipping Water Heater Maintenance
Clackamas’ water is moderately soft, but sediment can still build up in your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and lifespan.
What to do: Flush your water heater annually. Check the anode rod every 2–3 years.
📚 Source: U.S. Department of Energy Water Heating Guide
6. DIY Plumbing Without Permits
Installing or altering major plumbing components without proper permits violates Clackamas’ Uniform Plumbing Code and can lead to fines or insurance problems.
What to do: Always check if your project requires a permit on Portland.gov.
📚 Source: City of Portland – Residential Plumbing Permits
7. Overtightening Plumbing Connections
Over-tightening supply lines or fittings can cause threads to crack, leading to leaks or pipe bursts—especially on older metal fixtures.
What to do: Hand-tighten, then gently secure with a wrench. Stop when you feel resistance.
8. Not Winterizing Outdoor Faucets
Though Clackamas rarely sees extreme freezes, temperatures can dip below freezing, causing unprotected outdoor pipes to burst.
What to do: Disconnect hoses in fall, install frost-free hose bibs, and insulate exterior piping.
📚 Source: Portland Water Bureau – Cold Weather Tips
9. Using the Wrong Tools or Parts
Many homeowners grab whatever’s available at the hardware store without checking for compatibility. This leads to loose fittings, leaks, or even cross-threaded connectors.
What to do: Always use the right tool and plumbing-rated materials. Avoid mixing metal types without proper dielectric unions.
10. Delaying Professional Help for Emergencies
Waiting to address a backed-up drain, leaking pipe, or discolored water can turn a simple fix into a full-blown emergency.
What to do: Don’t wait—call experienced professionals who understand Clackamas’ aging infrastructure and local code requirements. Contact Einstein Pros Now!
👨🔧 Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes can extend your plumbing’s lifespan and save you thousands in long-term costs. Clackamas homeowners need to be especially cautious due to older housing stock, shifting weather, and city-specific plumbing rules.
For trusted help in the Rose City, Einstein Pros Portland has your back with licensed, local professionals who know how to keep your plumbing running right.
📌 Sources & References
- EPA Fix a Leak Week
- City of Portland Plumbing Permits
- Portland Water Bureau Cold Weather Tips
- Department of Energy – Water Heating
- Portland Bureau of Environmental Services