Your home’s plumbing system is made up of many unique parts. Some of these parts are more complicated than others and should only ever be handled by a plumber. This is because if a problem is not handled correctly, you could end up spending even more to fix the damage you caused than you would have spent on the issue in the first place.

However, other parts of your plumbing system are much easier to use and fix. With the right tools and a little bit of knowledge, you can perform some plumbing repairs or installations by yourself with no problem. Here’s how to decide when to hire a plumber and when to do it yourself.

Do It Yourself

In general, you should only be taking on minor plumbing repairs or installation projects. Minor projects are those that can be done outside of the walls. When the parts you need are easy to find and inexpensive, you can save money on labor costs by doing the project yourself. You’ll need to know a few basic things before getting started on any plumbing project. These include how and when to shut off the water, which tools to use, and more.

Here are some minor plumbing projects that you can do yourself:

Faucet Installation—As long as there are no damaged valve connections, installing a new faucet can be a relatively easy job. Faucets typically come with specific directions to make the process go smoothly. If not, you can find instructions on the Internet.
Toilet Repair—If your toilet seat is wobbly, the handle is not flushing, or the toilet is constantly running, you can usually repair the toilet yourself.
Unclogging a Drain—If your toilet, sink, or shower is clogged, you can usually fix the problem by using a drain cleaning fluid or a plunger. However, if the problem can’t be fixed easily, multiple drains are clogging at once, or you’re experiencing frequent clogs, you likely have a larger problem on your hands.

Hire a Plumber

If you want to prevent errors and ensure that a job is done correctly and efficiently, you’ll want to hire a plumber to get the job done. The same applies for repairs or installations that are outside of your knowledge or skill level.

Here are some repairs that are best handled by a certified and professional plumber:

Low Water Pressure—Because many different issues can cause a problem with water pressure, it’s best to have a plumber assess the situation and find the right solution.
Water Heater Replacement—A plumber will ensure that the job is done safely and correctly. With the proper training and equipment, your plumber will help you avoid injuries from trying to do it yourself. They’ll even dispose of your old water heater for you.
Sewer Line Backed Up—If your sewer line is backed up, it typically indicates a bigger problem with the drain or sewer line. Often times, this is the result of tree roots or other objects getting in the way of the line.

If you’re unsure of how to complete a plumbing repair or installation, give us a call anytime. We’re here for any of your plumbing needs—from minor repairs to major installations. Click below to learn more about the plumbing services we offer.

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