12 Plumbing Mistakes Retired Plumbers See in Almost Every Senior's Home

Most water damage in a home doesn't start with a big flood. It starts with something small you stopped noticing years ago. In this video, a retired plumber walks you through 12 common plumbing mistakes that quietly lead to leaks, rotted floors and expensive water damage, plus the simple, low-cost checks that protect your home. Many of these fixes cost a few dollars, and one test costs about two cents. You don't need special tools or strength, just a little time once a year. And for the jobs that do belong to a professional, this video tells you exactly when to stop and call a licensed plumber. In this video you'll learn: ✅ How a leaky faucet dripping once a second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year, and the few dollar washer or cartridge that fixes it ✅ How to recaulk a tub the right way (the full tub trick most people never hear) ✅ Why the water shut off valves under your sinks and toilets can seize, and how to exercise them safely by hand ✅ The plastic nut on your toilet supply line that can suddenly let go at full house pressure ✅ The two cent paper towel trick for how to find a water leak under your sink ✅ Why a toilet that rocks is breaking its wax seal, and why caulk only hides the problem ✅ How to test your sump pump safely before the next big storm ✅ How to check your water pressure with a $10 gauge, and why anything above 80 PSI strains your plumbing ✅ Why your water heater should be set to about 120 degrees to help prevent scalding burns ✅ Why a drain pan or a battery water leak detector belongs under your water heater and washer ✅ Why rubber washing machine hoses are a major flood risk, and the braided steel upgrade that protects you ✅ The simple emergency plan every home needs: a tagged main water shut off valve, a flashlight and a plumber's number on the fridge This home maintenance checklist is perfect for homeowners, retirees, widows and widowers, and anyone living in an older house who would rather do a thing themselves than pay somebody forever to do it. If this video helps you, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe and share it with a friend or family member who takes care of their home on their own. Coming up next: the once a year water heater job almost nobody does, and the navy trick from 1824 that has been hiding inside your tank for years. Disclaimer: This video is for general home maintenance information only. If a valve won't turn, a toilet rocks, or your pressure is well above 80 PSI, contact a licensed plumber. Leave gas burners, electrical wiring and main line work to licensed professionals. #PlumbingTips #HomeMaintenance #WaterDamage #DIYPlumbing #HomeRepair