5 Costly Plumbing Mistakes Charleston Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them!)
When it comes to home maintenance, plumbing is often out of sight, out of mind—until something goes wrong. 💦 🚰 A simple mistake can lead to expensive repairs, water damage, or even health hazards.
Charleston’s unique climate, aging infrastructure, and coastal environment present specific plumbing challenges that homeowners need to watch out for. Whether you live in historic downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, or James Island, avoiding these common plumbing missteps can save you thousands in repairs!
1. Ignoring Small Leaks 🚨 (Especially in Our Humid Climate!)
Charleston’s high humidity means even the smallest leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth FAST. That tiny drip under your sink or running toilet might not seem urgent, but moisture + heat = the perfect storm for water damage and mold infestations.
💡 Pro Tip:
If you notice a leak, don’t wait! Call Atlantic Plumbing Services at 843-884-9444 before it turns into a major (and expensive) problem.
2. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners ❌ (Charleston’s Older Homes Can’t Handle It!)
Many homes in Charleston, especially in downtown historic districts, West Ashley, and North Charleston, have older pipes that can’t withstand harsh chemical drain cleaners. Over time, these chemicals eat away at old plumbing, causing leaks and costly repairs.
💡 Better Alternative:
Try a natural solution like baking soda & vinegar, or use a plumber’s snake to break up clogs safely. For tough clogs, let Atlantic Plumbing Services handle it the right way!
3. Flushing the Wrong Things Down the Toilet 🚽 (Charleston’s Sewer Systems Are Sensitive!)
Our local sewer systems in Charleston are already stressed by coastal flooding and aging infrastructure. Flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), paper towels, feminine products, or grease can cause major blockages and sewer backups—which are especially bad in flood-prone areas like Downtown Charleston and Johns Island.
💡 Toilet-Safe Rule of Thumb:
ONLY flush the three Ps: Pee, Poop, and (toilet) Paper. Everything else belongs in the trash! 🚮
4. DIY Plumbing Gone Wrong 🛠️ (Charleston Codes Matter!)
Charleston homeowners love a good DIY project, but plumbing isn’t the place to wing it. Many homes in Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, and Folly Beach have unique plumbing setups that must comply with South Carolina plumbing codes. One small mistake—like using the wrong pipes or forgetting to shut off the water—can lead to flooding, water damage, and expensive repairs.
💡 When to Call a Pro:
If you're dealing with anything beyond a simple clog or faucet replacement, let Atlantic Plumbing Services handle it right the first time! Call 843-884-9444 for expert service.
5. Ignoring Water Heater Maintenance 🔥 (Coastal Water Can Cause Damage!)
Charleston’s hard water (high mineral content) can cause sediment buildup in your water heater, leading to higher energy bills and premature failure. If you live in areas like Goose Creek, Isle of Palms, or Mount Pleasant, your water heater is working overtime to combat mineral deposits.
💡 How to Prevent Water Heater Problems:
✔ Flush your tank at least once a year to remove sediment.
✔ Check for rust or leaks around the base.
✔ Set your water heater to 120°F to prevent scalding and save energy.
If your water heater is 10+ years old, it might be time for an upgrade! Contact Atlantic Plumbing Services for water heater maintenance or installation.
Avoid These Mistakes—Call Charleston’s Most Trusted Plumbers!
Prevent plumbing disasters before they happen! Whether it’s fixing leaks, unclogging drains, or upgrading your water heater, Atlantic Plumbing Services has been Charleston’s go-to plumbing team for over 30 years.
📞 Call 843-884-9444 today to schedule a service! 🚰