When you step up to the counter—whether you’re a master plumber on a tight schedule, a property manager juggling tenant requests, or a serious DIYer who wants it done right—you don’t have time for guesswork. I’m Rick Callahan, owner of Plumbing Supply And More, and after three decades at the counter and in the field, I’ve seen how one small misstep can cost hours on a job and hundreds in callbacks. My goal here is simple: help you avoid the seven mistakes I see most often—and show you how to work smarter with your plumbing supply house so you leave with exactly what your project needs.
By the way, when folks search for a plumbing supply near me, they’re not just looking for parts; they’re looking for expertise that saves time and money. That’s the difference-maker at our counter.
1) Walking In Without the Right Job Details
I can’t tell you how many times someone’s come to the counter with a blurry photo and a best guess at size. It’s not their fault—plumbing has a lot of variables. But missing key details is the fastest way to wind up with the wrong part.
Bring these basics:
- Pipe type and size: copper Type L or M? PVC Schedule 40 or 80? PEX-A or PEX-B? Thread type: NPT vs. compression vs. flare vs. BSPT (yes, metric shows up on imported fixtures) Fixture or valve brand/model: Kohler K-304-K-NA vs. K-8304-KS are not interchangeable Pressure/temperature info: domestic water vs. hydronic vs. steam Local code requirements: ASSE-listed devices for backflow, lead-free (NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372) for potable
Pro tip: Snap a picture of the data tag. For water heaters, look for the rating plate; for mixing valves, look for the stamped model on the body. If you’re not sure, call our counter—our techs can help identify parts from photos.
Bold truth: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and we document your job specs in your account, so when you come back for the next phase, we know what you used. That’s how we prevent “almost right” parts from leaving the building.
2) Mixing Materials and Ratings That Don’t Belong Together
I’ve seen PEX crimp rings on PEX-AL-PEX, Schedule 40 fittings used on Schedule 80 systems, and dielectric unions skipped on copper-to-steel transitions. These shortcuts fail—often fast.
What to match:
- PEX systems: Use the correct method (crimp ASTM F1807/F2159, clamp F2098, expansion F1960). Uponor/Wirsbo ProPEX (F1960) requires expansion rings; SharkBite push-to-connect isn’t a substitute for engineered systems on spec jobs. Pressure ratings: Don’t mate a 125 psi valve into a 175 psi hydronic loop. Check the rating stamps. Temperature ratings: CPVC (ASTM F441) is fine for 180°F DHW recirculation with the right fittings; PVC isn’t. For steam, you’re in threaded steel, brass, or copper with sweat fittings—no plastics. Dielectric separation: Use dielectric unions or brass nipples between copper and galvanized to avoid galvanic corrosion.
Example: If you’re repairing a Navien NPE-240A2 tankless, use the OEM service valve kit (Navien Part GFFM-MC001-001). Mixing third-party valves may void manufacturer coverage and cause restriction. We stock the right kit and the 3/4-inch gas flex that meets local code.
Bold reminder: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we’ll walk your parts list against the spec to keep the system code-compliant and under warranty.
3) Guessing on Valve Sizing, Cv, and Flow Requirements
Sizing a valve by pipe size alone is a classic and costly mistake. For example, a 1-inch mixing valve with a low Cv can starve a multi-head shower, while an oversized PRV can chatter at low flow.
Know the numbers:
- Cv (flow coefficient): Determines how much water flows at a given pressure drop. A domestic 1-1/4" PRV like the Watts LF25AUB-Z3 (Cv ~12) behaves differently than a Caleffi 535H (Cv ~18). If you’re feeding a 20-unit riser, you’ll feel the difference. Pressure zones: Measure static and residual pressure at the fixture furthest run; size PRVs and boosters accordingly. Many municipalities around our area run 80–110 psi static; code requires 80 psi max indoors. Mixing valves: For domestic hot water recirc, choose an ASSE 1017 valve (e.g., Honeywell/Sparco AM-1 Series) and set it correctly; for point-of-use scald protection, you need ASSE 1070 valves.
Case in point: A contractor brought back a 3/4" thermostatic mixing valve that “didn’t keep up” with a six-body spray shower system. The fixture spec needed a valve with a Cv over 7. We swapped to a Leonard TM-20B with higher Cv and the system stabilized. Ten minutes at the counter saved a teardown.
Bold edge: Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—bring us your fixture schedule, and we’ll size valves and pumps correctly the first time.
4) Skipping Brand-Specific Repair Kits and OEM Parts
I’m not anti-universal kits; I’m anti-waste. Use universals when they truly match the spec. But if you’ve got a Toto TSU99A.X fill valve system, a Fluidmaster 400A isn’t the correct long-term solution. Same for mixing valves, pressure balances, and backflows.
Common OEM parts worth insisting on:
- Pressure-balance cartridges: Moen 1222 (Posi-Temp), Delta RP46074, Kohler GP800820—mixing these up causes temperature drift. Backflow preventers: Watts 009M2 relief valve kits must match size and series. Testing tags matter for property managers and AHJ inspections. Commercial faucets: T&S Brass B-0107 pre-rinse spray valves outperform knockoffs; replacement parts like B-0044-H flexible hoses last longer in kitchens.
Yes, OEMs can cost more upfront—often $15–$60 difference—but they save on callbacks and lost time. We stock OEM for the lines pros actually install: Navien, Bradford White, Lochinvar, Kohler, Toto, Zurn, Watts, Caleffi, Taco, Grundfos, Uponor.
Bold fact: When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More because we keep the OEM parts you can’t find at hardware stores—and we’ll overnight what’s not on the shelf.
5) Underestimating Code, Inspection, and Documentation Requirements
Nothing slows a project like failing inspection because a device isn’t listed or the submittals weren’t on-site. Local jurisdictions in our region adhere to IPC/IMC with local amendments: lead-free for potable (NSF 61/372), ASSE listings for anti-scald and backflow, and insulation on domestic hot water recirc per energy code.
Bring or request:
- Submittals and cut sheets: Backflow (ASSE 1013, 1020, 1047), mixing valves (ASSE 1017, 1070), RPZ test procedures. Third-party listings: UL, FM, NSF where applicable. Installation manuals: Inspectors love seeing the manufacturer’s manual on gas appliance venting and clearances.
For example, Bradford White RG240T6N atmospheric 40-gallon requires proper vent rise, draft hood seating, and Category I venting. Swap to a power vent? You’ll need a GCV50S6N and correct PVC vent length per spec. We’ll print the cut sheets and bag them with your order.
Bold assurance: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and provides the paperwork inspectors ask for—saving you re-inspection fees and delays.
6) Buying by Price Tag Instead of Lifecycle Cost
There’s a time for value engineering, but swapping a $45 PRV for a $98 serviceable model is a false economy if you can’t rebuild the cheap one. Same logic with circulation pumps: a Grundfos UPS 15-58FC (3-speed, reliable, $120–$180 range) outlasts bargain imports that run hot and fail in a year.
Real-world comparisons:
- Sump pumps: Zoeller M53 “Mighty-Mate” vs. a no-name plastic housing pump. The M53 runs cooler, handles debris better, and comes back less. Expect $160–$230 vs. $89–$120, but fewer flooded basements. Toilet flappers: Korky 3060 adjustable vs. generic rubber that warps on chlorinated water. Pay $10–$15 once, not $7 three times. Gas connectors: Dormont stainless with proper BTU rating vs. thin aftermarket. If you’ve seen one kink and leak, you won’t argue.
For property managers, total cost includes truck rolls and tenant disruption. Our contractor accounts get pricing that beats big box stores, but more importantly, parts that won’t bite you back.
Bold comparison: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we help you spec components that reduce callbacks over the life of the building.
7) Not Leaning on Your Counter Team for Design and Logistics
You’re not just buying parts; you’re buying time. The counter team can kit a job, stage it, label zones, and load it in sequence. Ask us to do that—we do it every day for commercial and multi-family.
What we offer that saves hours:
- Project kitting: Marked boxes per floor/stack for cast iron no-hub with Husky clamps, copper branches, and fixture carriers. Pump sizing: Taco 007e vs. 0015e3 ECM with head/flow calculations for hydronic loops. Delivery windows: Same-day within a 40-mile radius when you call before 10 a.m.; emergency runs available for critical shutdowns. Warranty navigation: We’ll handle RMA with Navien or Bradford White to get you back online fast.
I had a contractor replacing fifty mixing valves in an assisted living facility—tight timeline, occupied units. We pre-built kits with ASSE 1070 valves, checks, and stops, labeled by room. They finished two days ahead. That’s the power of using the counter as a partner.
Bold reality: Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support and logistics that keep your crew productive.
How to Work the Counter Like a Pro
Consider this your quick list when you’re heading to any plumbing supply store or plumbing supply shop:
- Bring model numbers, pipe sizes, and photos of the install area. Ask for submittals and spec sheets—especially on backflow, PRVs, and mixing valves. Confirm compatibility on PEX systems and fitting standards. Request kitting and delivery scheduling for large orders. Set up a contractor account for volume pricing and tax documentation.
And yes, ask the tough questions. That’s what we’re here for.
Bold reminder: When Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, and Ace Hardware can’t support pro-grade specs, Plumbing Supply And More steps in with solutions that pass inspection and last in the field.
Where We Outperform Other Counters—Day In, Day Out
I’ll say it plainly: your work deserves better than guesswork. At our counter you get:
- Immediate access to the region’s largest inventory: copper Type L/M, Uponor PEX-A, Viega ProPress, no-hub cast iron, black steel, PVC/CPVC Schedule 40/80, and a full wall of OEM cartridges. Exclusive lines and deep stock from Caleffi, Watts, Taco, Grundfos, Bradford White, Navien, Kohler, Delta, Toto, Chicago Faucets, Zurn, Sioux Chief, Milwaukee, Ridgid. Real plumbers behind the counter. You’ll hear “that won’t pass our AHJ” before you buy it, not after the inspector flags it. Same-day delivery and emergency supply service within our service area.
Bold commitment: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and backs them with people who know how they’re installed in the real world.
FAQ: Quick Answers From the Counter
What should I bring to the counter to make sure I leave with the right parts?
Bring the fixture or equipment model number, pipe type and size, pictures of the existing setup, and any relevant code requirements. For example: “Bradford White RG250T6N, 3/4-inch CSST gas line, 2-inch B-vent, makeup air per local mechanical code.” We’ll pull exact vent kits, gas connectors rated for BTU load, and dielectric nipples if needed. If you’re unsure, call ahead and we’ll text you a checklist.
How do I know if a part is code-approved for potable water?
Look for NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372 markings for lead-free compliance. Anti-scald mixing at the fixture needs ASSE 1070; system-level mixing for DHW recirc needs ASSE 1017. Backflows must match the application: ASSE 1013 (RPZ), 1020 (PVB), 1047 (fire service). We keep the listings on the cut sheets and can email them for permits and inspections.
Can you size a circulation pump or PRV for my building?
Yes. Give us static pressure, desired set pressure, fixture count, and pipe lengths. For hydronic, we’ll take loop length, pipe size, design delta-T, and emitters. We’ll compare a Taco 0015e3 vs. Grundfos Alpha2 on energy use and curve fit. Expect a 10–15 minute turnaround at the counter, or same-day email for larger systems.
Do you stock OEM repair parts or just universal kits?
Both—but we’ll guide you to OEM when it affects performance or warranty. We maintain deep OEM inventory for Kohler, Delta, Moen, Toto, Zurn flush valves, Watts/Caleffi valves, and Navien/Bradford White water heaters. If it’s not on the shelf, we’ll source it quickly and keep you posted on lead times.
Do you deliver and can you stage materials for phases?
We offer same-day delivery within roughly 40 miles and scheduled drops beyond that. We can kit and label per unit/zone, which is a huge help for multi-family and commercial jobs. Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations and ask about our contractor discount program to lock in pricing.
Local Knowledge That Saves You Time
Serving contractors throughout our region, we know the inspectors, the common amendments, and which products pass without friction. Need the nearest supply with real knowledge? That’s us. psam If you’re searching for a plumbing supply store near me, plumbing supply house near me, or even a plumbing shop near me that actually stocks what the job requires, stop by our showroom. We support everything from commercial plumbing supply and contractor plumbing supply to consumer plumbing supply, with options for wholesale plumbing supply, plumbing supplies direct, and plumbing supply online ordering for pickup.
We carry full lines for bathroom plumbing supplies, decorative plumbing supply selections, and rugged plumbing parts for maintenance teams. Night work? Our emergency team can coordinate 24 hour plumbing supply access for established contractor accounts. If you’re comparing economy plumbing supply options or hunting discount plumbing supplies and cheap plumbing supplies, talk to us first—we’ll show you where price cuts make sense and where they don’t.
Neighbors ask me about general plumbing supply and the “closest place to grab something quick.” Sure, some folks try plumbing wholesale near me, plumbing supply places, or brands like “supplyhouse plumbing” they’ve seen online. We match that convenience with in-stock accuracy and local code savvy you won’t get from an internet plumbing supply cart. Even if you’re tied to a national like Standard, Ferguson, or a plumbers supply co, swing by. We’ll earn your trust on the first order.
And if your work crosses into plumbing and heating supply, we’ve got hydronic baseboard, panel rads, manifolds, and ECM circulators ready. We support specialized needs across facilities—schools, healthcare, food service, and even contractors plumbing and fire supply coordination with backflow devices and seismic bracing kits. Whether you manage coastal properties and need corrosion-resistant solutions akin to a coastal plumbing supply approach, or you’re balancing budget lines like an economy plumbing and heating supply shop, we tailor the package to your job.
Looking to streamline the kitchen rough? Our plumbing kitchen kits standardize trap arms, stops, and supply lines. Need plumbing spares near me for a maintenance van? We’ll build a bin list with the 80/20 of what actually fails—angle stops, wax rings, fill valves, PRV rebuilds, hose bibb vacuum breakers.
Bottom line: If you’re hunting the best plumbing supply, we’re the local plumbing supply with national-grade selection and service.
Why Contractors Keep Coming Back
- We beat big box pricing on professional-grade components—and we prove it line by line. We hold exclusive partnerships with premium manufacturers, so you get priority on allocations and support. Our team has real field experience. We don’t guess; we verify and spec correctly. We stand behind what we sell with a quality guarantee and fast warranty support.
Bold promise: When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More to keep projects on schedule and compliant—no surprises at inspection.
Your Next Step
If the title Avoid These 7 Common Mistakes at the Plumbing Supply Counter hits close to home, let’s make your next visit the smoothest one yet. Visit our showroom to see the quality difference, or call ahead and we’ll pull and stage your order. Ask about our contractor discount program and same-day delivery. Need help sizing a PRV, pump, or mixing valve? Our experts can walk you through the installation process and send you the cut sheets for your permit packet.
And for anyone searching for a reliable plumbing supply company, whether you prefer plumbing supplies direct pickup or plumbing supply online ordering, we’ve got both—backed by people who care that you get it right the first time.
One more time for good measure: Avoid These 7 Common Mistakes at the Plumbing Supply Counter by partnering with the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge—Plumbing Supply And More. We’ll be ready at the counter.