There are several plumbing projects that you can DIY (Do It Yourself) if you have the necessary tools, skills, and confidence. However, it’s important to recognize your limits and know when to hire a professional plumber, especially for complex or potentially hazardous tasks. It’s also important to educate yourself thoroughly on the steps to take and materials to use, as well as mistakes and warning signs that mean you should step back and call a professional. Here’s a breakdown of common plumbing projects and whether you can DIY them or should consider hiring a local Houston plumbing service:
Plumbing Projects You Can DIY
One of the simplest plumbing repairs in your home that nearly anyone can learn to do is unclogging drains. Minor clogs in sinks, showers, and bathtubs can often be cleared with a plunger, drain snake, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Be careful using these methods as you can harm your plumbing with vigorous plunging or snaking. In general, it’s better to avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can damage pipes and harm the environment. If you do need to use a chemical cleaner, make sure that you carefully follow all of the instructions and be very cautious. If you continue to have problems with the drain you will need to hire a professional.
Another easy DIY plumbing project is replacing faucets, shower heads, and other fixtures. Replacing a faucet or a showerhead can be relatively straightforward with the right tools. However, it’s important to make sure that you know what you’re doing and follow the proper steps in order to avoid leaks. For example, you must not forget to turn off the water supply before starting. It’s also important to use plumbers’ tape around any threads and make sure that the pipes are adequately tightened. If you develop leaks, are unsure of the process to follow, or need to use glue instead of threaded pipes, it might be time to call a plumber for the repair.
You can also repair a leaky kitchen or bathroom faucet, depending on where the leak is and what is causing it. For example, you may be able to fix a leaky faucet by replacing the washers or O rings inside the faucet handles or next to the aerator.
Finally, there are a few easy toilet repairs that DIYers can usually handle. For example, installing a new toilet seat typically involves only a few screws and can be easily done with the right tools. Other repairs can also be relatively easy depending on the situation. Often, a running toilet can be fixed by adjusting or replacing the flapper, float, or fill valve. Toilet repair kits are widely available and can guide you through the process. Finally, if you have developed a slight leak in any of your supply lines you may be able to use a pair of pliers or a wrench to tighten things up for a simple fix. If you continue to have trouble with any of your toilet repairs, you may need to call a local plumber to help you.
Plumbing Projects Best Left to a Professional
Major leaks and broken pipes are some of the things that should be done by a plumber. Repairing or replacing pipes can be complex and requires specialized tools and expertise. In addition, you may not know the extent of the damage and have continuing problems. You might also need to remove parts of walls in order to access the pipes, and areas with water damage will need to be remediated. Finally, if you need to make an insurance claim, you will likely be required to have the repair done by a licensed professional.
Another one of the things that you should leave to the professionals is repairing or replacing your water heater. While it is possible to learn the skills needed to do this job, it’s complicated and difficult. If not done correctly, it could be dangerous. Water heaters involve gas or electrical connections and can be hazardous if not installed or repaired correctly. A professional plumber can ensure safety and proper functionality.
One messy and difficult plumbing job involves sewer or septic problems. Dealing with sewer line problems, such as backups or blockages, is a job for a licensed plumber. It often requires specialized equipment to diagnose and repair the issue and can be more extensive than you might have initially thought. In addition, it is important to follow codes and ordinances when dealing with septic systems and sewer lines, and homeowners aren’t likely to know the rules.
If your plumbing project involves significant changes to the plumbing system, such as moving pipes or adding new fixtures, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure compliance with building codes and prevent potential problems. When you make large changes to a plumbing system, it’s important to do it correctly in order to avoid future drainage issues, leaks, and ventilation problems.
Water pressure issues can have various causes, some of which are complex and require a professional assessment to determine the root cause and find an appropriate solution. If you are experiencing problems with your water pressure, such as low, high, or inconsistent pressure, it is smart to talk to a plumber before trying to make any adjustments or changes.
Finally, DIYers should never make changes to gas lines in their homes. Working with gas lines can be extremely dangerous and should only be done by a licensed plumber or gas fitter. It is also difficult for homeowners to know and follow ordinances and safety regulations as they apply to gas lines, and leaking or improperly installed lines could be deadly.
Conclusion
Before you start any plumbing project in your home, educate yourself on the best ways to complete it, mistakes to avoid, and ideal materials to use. If you decide to DIY a plumbing project, always take safety precautions, turn off the water supply when necessary, and be prepared to call a plumber if you encounter unexpected difficulties or feel uncomfortable with the task at hand.