DIY projects aren’t for everyone, but some homeowners are thrilled to make improvements or repairs without calling in the professionals. However, there are some projects you don’t want to tackle by yourself. For example, unless you’re a certified electrician, you don’t want to rewire your home, and plumbing repairs can also fall into this category.
While you may not need a plumber to unclog a toilet, you will probably need one if you’re dealing with severe back-flow problems. So, how do you know if you need a professional plumber, wrench, or plunger? Here’s a look at some times you want to let the professionals handle your plumbing issues.
Your Shower and Sinks Aren’t Draining
Whether it’s the drain in a sink, shower, or both, when water begins pooling, you probably have a clog somewhere in your line.
Your first instinct may be to reach for a bottle of drain cleaner, but this doesn’t always resolve the problem you may have. Besides, drain cleaner is corrosive, meaning it can erode your pipes over time. Don’t panic if you’re using drain cleaner now and then. You need to use it a lot before it starts damaging the pipes.
However, drain cleaners can only do so much. The liquid can loosen minor clogs near the drain opening, but if the clog is further down in the pipes, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They have a handy drill tool that can get deep inside your pipes, removing the clog without causing damage.
Gurgling Water
When you start hearing gurgling water, you don’t want to spend time trying to diagnose the problem precisely when calling a plumber. Whether the gurgling noise comes from your toilet when you turn on the shower or a sink drain, it’s typically a sign of a more serious issue.
You may have a clogged drain or water trapped in the faucet, which can prevent air from reaching your drainage system. The gurgling sound is your drainage system gasping for air. Since your drainage system has to work harder, the chances of water spilling into your home significantly increase.
To avoid adding water damage to your list of expenses, shut the water off at the source. Check the basement or garage if you’re unsure where your main water shut-off valve is. You can also follow your water line from the meter to the valve. After shutting off the water, call a plumber to pinpoint the problem and make the necessary repairs.
You Only Have Cold Water
Sometimes, a cold shower can be refreshing. The cold water can also wake you up in the morning. That said, very few people look forward to cold baths or showers. When the faucets are only putting out cold water, regardless of how long you let it run, there’s a good chance there’s an issue with your water heater.
Both gas and electric water heaters require regular maintenance. These fundamental appliances also have lifespans, typically 10 to 15 years. Even tankless water heaters eventually wear out, though most last for at least 20 years. While keeping up with maintenance can help extend the life of a water heater, eventually, it needs replacing. Your lack of hot water may mean it’s time to replace the unit.
Your water heater may also only need a replacement part or a simple fix, such as cleaning and reigniting the pilot light. However, a professional plumber and HVAC technician may be required to resolve the problem.
Constantly Running Toilet
No, this isn’t a bad joke about catching a running toilet or anything like that. Sometimes, the water in your bathroom keeps running after flushing it.
The tank isn’t overflowing, and you’ve jiggled the handle, but nothing seems to be fixing the issue. Even though you’re not dealing with water on the floor, a continuously running toilet can quickly become expensive. Your water bill will increase even though you’re not actively flushing the toilet.
So, why is your toilet continuing to run? You may have a damaged seal connecting the toilet tank to the bowl. Replacing a damaged seal is usually a relatively easy fix for professionals.
Don’t Wait to Contact a Professional Plumber
While replacing an outdated sink can be a decent DIY project, fixing a faulty water heater is a job for real professionals. For most plumbing problems, it’s best to contact a professional plumber.
Some issues may require specialised tools, knowledge, and experience only professionals can provide. Relying on experts can guarantee that the job is done safely and effectively, preventing further complications.
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