Plumbing issues are bound to happen. A dripping faucet, a clogged drain, or a running toilet—these small inconveniences can quickly turn into bigger headaches. The question is, should you grab your toolbox and fix it yourself, or is it time to call a local plumber?
Some plumbing tasks are perfect for a weekend warrior to take on, while others can lead to unexpected damage if not handled properly. Let’s break down the jobs you can confidently take on yourself and the ones that might be better left to the professionals.
DIY-Friendly Plumbing Projects
Here are five simple fixes that most homeowners can handle with a little elbow grease.
- Unclogging a Drain
Got a slow drain? Before calling a local plumber, try a DIY approach. A mix of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can break up minor clogs. If that doesn’t work, a plunger or a drain snake will often do the trick. Just skip the chemical drain cleaners—despite the branding, they’re too harsh for your pipes and lead to leaks.
- Fixing a Running Toilet
A toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting water. Luckily, it’s usually a pretty simple fix. Check inside the tank. The flapper may not be sealing properly, or the float might need adjusting. Sometimes, it’s as simple as reattaching the chain properly. Most repairs involve replacing inexpensive parts that you can find at any hardware store.
- Replacing a Showerhead
Want better water pressure or a more modern look? Swapping out a showerhead is an easy upgrade. Just unscrew the old one, apply some plumber’s tape to the threads, and screw on the new showerhead. No special tools or skills required.
- Repairing a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet can waste gallons of water over time. Most leaks are caused by worn-out washers or O-rings, both of which are easy to replace. Shut off the water, disassemble the faucet, swap out the faulty part, and reassemble. In most cases, you can fix it in under an hour.
- Cleaning Your Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is starting to smell funky or isn’t grinding properly, a quick DIY cleaning can help. Ice cubes, vinegar, and baking soda can break up buildup, while citrus peels leave it smelling fresh. Just make sure to turn off the power before doing any deep cleaning.
Plumbing Projects to Leave to the Pros
While some plumbing tasks are easy to tackle on your own, others require a trained professional. Here are five jobs where calling a plumbing service is the best move.
- Replacing Your Toilet
Swapping out a toilet might seem straightforward, but one wrong move can lead to leaks, floor damage, or even sewage backup (that’s an issue no one wants to deal with.) A local plumber will make sure your toilet is replaced correctly, no leaks, damage, or rocking.
- Major Pipe Repairs
A small pipe leak? Some DIYers can handle that. But if you’re dealing with burst pipes, corroded plumbing, or hidden leaks, it’s time for a plumbing inspection. A professional can assess the situation, prevent water damage, and make the necessary repairs safely. Remember, your pipes won’t last forever! It’s better to understand when they might need replacing than to find out the hard way.
- Water Heater Repairs or Installations
Water heaters involve gas lines, electrical connections, and high-pressure systems—making them a dangerous DIY project. Whether it’s a simple repair or a full replacement, it’s best to leave this one to the pros.
- Sewer Line Repairs
A clogged sink is one thing, but if you’re experiencing frequent backups or slow drains throughout your home, your sewer line may be the culprit. This is not a DIY job. It’s not even a professional handyman job. For this, you need a licensed plumber who has the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the issue without causing further damage.
- Remodeling Plumbing Work
Thinking of moving a sink, installing a new shower, or upgrading your plumbing? These projects often require reconfiguring pipes, which, if done incorrectly, can lead to serious leaks and can end up racking up costs. A plumbing inspection before and after the work ensures everything is up to code and functioning properly, and a professional plumber will ensure everything is properly done to prevent leaks.
Know When to DIY and When to Call the Pros
DIY plumbing fixes can save you time and money, but some projects are best left to a professional plumber. If you’re dealing with anything beyond a minor repair, a plumbing inspection can help identify hidden problems before they turn into major disasters.
For professional plumbing service, expert repairs, and maintenance, trust Fosh Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
