Not All Plumbing Repairs are DIY

DIY plumbing repair. Should you do it yourself or should you hire a professional?

Here are a 5 major plumbing task that requires an experienced plumber.

1. Working with Gas

Gas is inherently dangerous. It isn’t healthy to breathe, and a simple spark can cause a fire and even an explosion. Gas should be respected. If your water heater is gas-powered, it is best to leave its maintenance and care to the professionals. If you’re not sure if your water heater is gas or electric, take the safe route and call us first. This advice is true for non-plumbing appliances that run on gas, too.

2. Pulling out Cartridges in your faucet

Repairing a faucet is a relatively simple job, but your cartridge is a delicate part of your faucet plumbing. If you are not using proprietary, manufacturer-approved tools for the job, you could break the cartridge which will cost you far more money. Worse, the entire stem can be broken off, which causes even bigger repair issues for you. With the right tools, this is an acceptable project to DIY for a knowledgeable homeowner. Without the right tools, it’s better to call the pros.

3. Installing a Water Heater

Water heater installation should always be left up to a professional, licensed plumber. First, any project that involves water lines can lead to a leak – or worse, a flood. However, the more important part to consider with the installation of a new water heater is the heating mechanism itself. As we mentioned, if the water heater is gas-powered, you should already be trusting a professional. However, even with electric water heaters, improper installation can be very, very dangerous.

4. Repairing Major Drain Blockages with a Motorized Snake

Clearing a little clog out of your drain traps is usually doable for most homeowners with a hand snake. Complex clogs within the drain line or sewage line should be done by a professional plumber. We would not advise a homeowner to tackle this project if a motorized snake machine is necessary. They are dangerous and can cause a lot of damage if you are a novice non-professional.

5. Moving or Replacing Pipes

The structure and connectivity of pipes in your home was built the way it is for many reasons. This design was created by a professional for optimal safety, water flow, and plumbing standards. If you feel the need to move pipes – perhaps to restructure a room in your home or make space for something else – choose to do so with a licensed plumber. Replacing the pipes in your home with newer materials is also a professional job. Trying to DIY these big jobs will only result in potential damage to your home, your plumbing, or yourself – issues that are costly and time-consuming.