The recent DIY trend, which took off in a big way during early pandemic lockdowns, doesn’t seem to be going anywhere soon. Today, around three in four homeowners say they do DIY projects around the house, with younger generations even more motivated than others to avoid calling a contractor.
DIY projects can be cost-effective and even fun, and they’re a great way to tackle basic household tasks without getting anyone else involved. However, there are a few times when you’ll want a pro to take charge. The knowledge and skills of an expert can help you avoid massive headaches down the line!
That’s where professional plumbing contractors can help. Though you can do some basic fixes on your own without causing harm, certain issues should always require a pro. Here’s when to contact a local expert.
Drainage Issues
There are few things more frustrating than a slow-moving drain. Whether water is backing up in your sink or you end up standing in a swimming pool every time you shower, these issues are often signs that something’s going on with your pipes.
If you’re lucky, you may be able to fix the drainage issue on your own with a few basic solutions. Grabbing store-bought drain cleaner or making your own with baking soda and vinegar can help with small blockages near the entrance of the drain. If you have a drain snake or plunger, you might be able to clear even bigger blockages.
However, when these tools fail, calling a plumbing contractor is your best bet. More invasive solutions can often help get your pipes back to functioning order, but these solutions are safest in the hands of a pro. With the right equipment, including high-tech cameras, your local plumber can help you deal with severe clogs or damage to your pipes.
No Hot Water
If you’re not getting hot water in your home, especially in the winter, it can become a nightmare fast. Hot water is a luxury we’ve all come to depend on for everything from hygiene to home cleaning.
Often, the issue lies with your water heater’s settings. Minor troubleshooting on your own might help, so double-check your owner’s manual. In some cases, checking the breaker box for an electric heater or the pilot light for a gas model might pinpoint the issue.
Beyond this, it’s crucial to call for plumbing repair. Water heaters are complex devices, and countless problems might be the culprit behind your cold water. If you have a faulty tank or a broken part, your plumber will be able to identify and fix it fast.
Major Leaks
If you’re handy with basic tools and feel comfortable with your expertise, you might be able to address minor leaks on your own. Sometimes, tightening various components is the only thing you need to do. Repairing these tiny plumbing leaks is crucial, as even a small drip can result in thousands of gallons of water wasted every year.
On the other hand, some leaks are harder to fix than others.
Leaky shutoff valves are a great example: replacing an older model might require soldering. If you feel in over your head or the leak continues after you’ve tried a fix, call a pro for backup!
This is especially important if you’re struggling to figure out where the water is coming from. Sometimes, a burst pipe or a leak can dampen your flooring or ceiling, for example, and it can be difficult to locate the source. This is even more likely if you’re dealing with a frozen pipe that has poor insulation.
In cases like these, get an emergency plumbing service to address the issue and preserve your home as soon as possible.
Appliance Installations
Bathroom and kitchen remodels can sometimes be DIY tasks, but plumbing changes are not. Unless you have experience with plumbing installation, you shouldn’t try to add new appliances and plumbing features to your home.
It’s not hard to find online tutorials and videos that teach homeowners to do a DIY installation, no matter the type of feature. You can find experts teaching you to add or replace faucets, sinks, and even dishwashers on your own. They’ll even teach you to do repiping when you need your plumbing system expanded for a new addition.
However, we don’t recommend trying any of these tasks at home! These types of installations aren’t as straightforward as you’d think.
It’s crucial to make sure all components fit correctly and are installed well. If not, you might set yourself up for major disasters in the future. Any money you save on the DIY project will be outweighed by the cost of repairs!
In addition, homeowners don’t always realize that you may need a permit for certain plumbing projects, even if you own the home and are doing the work yourself. If you work with a certified plumber, they can help you understand your legal needs and help you get permits as necessary.
Water Line or Sewer Line Fixes
There are two areas of your plumbing that homeowners should never mess with: the water line and the sewer line.
Your main water line is the pipe that carries water into your home. This line should need little plumbing maintenance, as it can last for decades. However, if you notice any issues, such as discolored water throughout your home or low water pressure from every faucet, your water line may be to blame.
Your sewer line carries water away from your home. Because this line is full of bacteria that can impact your health, you should never try to do any repairs to the line. If you notice foul odors, clogs, or leaks from this line, contact an emergency plumbing service right away!
Get the Professional Plumbing You Need
DIY fixes may help you keep simple problems at bay, but you’ll want to call a professional plumbing expert for all of the issues above.
When you’re not sure how to fix your problem, Leto Plumbing & Heating can help. As the one-stop shop for homeowners throughout the Plainfield area, we’ll send our licensed and bonded experts over to tackle your plumbing issues right away. Contact us today for a free estimate!
