Plumbers: When to DIY and When to Call a Professional

You know the drill; something springs a leak or a pipe gets blocked, and suddenly, you’re facing a decision. Should you tackle it yourself or bring in the pros?

The Basics: What You Can Handle Yourself

There’s something satisfying about fixing things yourself. Whether it’s a dripping tap or a clogged drain, some plumbing tasks are straightforward enough for anyone with a bit of patience and the right tools. Let’s start with the ones you can confidently handle.

Unclogging a Drain

Blocked sinks and drains are common annoyances, but they’re also one of the easiest problems to solve on your own. A plunger or a drain snake (also known as a drain auger) can work wonders. If you’re facing a slow drain, a combination of boiling water, vinegar, and baking soda can help dislodge minor blockages.

Top tip – Always use a plunger before reaching for chemical drain cleaners, which can be harsh on your pipes (and not too friendly to the environment).

Fixing a Leaky Tap

Drip, drip, drip… that persistent sound isn’t just annoying, it’s wasting water too. Fortunately, fixing a leaky tap is often as simple as replacing a worn-out washer or O-ring. Basic tools like a wrench, screwdrivers, and pliers are all you need to stop the drip.

Important – Remember to turn off the water supply before dismantling anything, or you’ll end up with a soggy mess on your hands.

Installing a New Shower Head

If your current showerhead isn’t cutting it, upgrading to a new one is a DIY task that’s relatively easy. Most shower heads screw on and off, and with a bit of plumber’s tape to prevent leaks, you can have a new one installed in minutes.

Toilet Flapper Issues

Is your toilet running constantly? You’re probably dealing with a worn-out flapper. Replacing this is a simple job that doesn’t require any plumbing expertise. Flappers are cheap, easy to install, and can solve that annoying water-wasting issue in no time.

These tasks don’t require much more than basic tools and a willingness to get a bit hands-on. But, of course, the line between DIY-friendly and expert-only jobs isn’t always so clear.

When to Call in the Pros: Recognising the Signs

While some plumbing problems can be tackled with a bit of elbow grease, others are far more complex. Here’s where you need to think twice before diving in with your toolbox. Calling in professionals like Furlong Group plumbers isn’t just a question of convenience; it’s about ensuring safety, compliance with regulations, and preventing further damage.

Persistent Clogs

If your drain continues to block up despite your best efforts, it’s time to bring in a plumber. Persistent clogs could be a sign of a deeper issue, such as a problem with your sewer line. This is not something you want to mess around with. Professional plumbers have specialised equipment like cameras to inspect your pipes and diagnose the real problem.

Water Heater Repairs

Your water heater is one of the most vital parts of your plumbing system, and it’s also one of the most complex. Whether it’s not heating properly, making strange noises, or leaking, this is not a DIY job. Attempting to repair or replace a water heater without proper knowledge can be dangerous, especially when dealing with gas connections or high-voltage wiring.

Pipe Leaks and Bursts

A small drip might be something you can handle, but a full-blown pipe leak is a different story. Whether it’s a burst pipe or an ongoing leak in a hard-to-reach area, this requires professional intervention. Left untreated, leaks can cause significant water damage, mould growth, and even structural issues.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be a real headache, and it’s not always something you can fix on your own. While a clogged aerator on a tap is easy to clean, consistent low pressure throughout your property could indicate a bigger problem, like a hidden leak or a corroded pipe. A plumber will be able to identify the issue quickly and fix it properly.

Major Renovations

Thinking of adding a new bathroom or moving your kitchen sink? This isn’t the time to go DIY. Any time you’re dealing with rerouting pipes, major renovations, or installing new plumbing fixtures, it’s best to call in a professional. They’ll ensure everything is installed correctly and up to code, which will save you headaches down the line (and keep your building inspector happy).

Sewer Line Issues

Anything involving your sewer line is strictly a professional’s territory. From clogs to tree root invasions, sewer line problems require specialised equipment and expertise. Attempting to fix these issues yourself could lead to costly mistakes, not to mention the unpleasant experience of dealing with sewage.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Plumber

Let’s be honest, while DIY plumbing can save money upfront, there are significant advantages to calling in the experts. Here’s why it’s often worth it.

• Expertise – Professional plumbers have the training and experience to diagnose and fix problems quickly and efficiently. They can identify issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye and provide long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.
• Right Tools for the Job – Plumbers have access to specialised equipment that most DIY enthusiasts don’t. From pipe inspection cameras to hydro-jetting machines, these tools allow them to handle complex problems with precision.
• Safety – Plumbing work can be dangerous, particularly when it involves gas lines or high-pressure water systems. Plumbers are trained to handle these risks safely, ensuring that your home or building stays secure.
• Compliance with Regulations – Plumbing work often needs to meet certain legal standards and building codes. Professional plumbers are familiar with these regulations and ensure that all work is up to code, helping you avoid costly fines or issues when selling your property.

When in Doubt, Call the Experts

So, when should you DIY and when should you call a professional plumber? The rule of thumb is simple: if it’s a straightforward fix that doesn’t involve major components of your plumbing system, give it a go. But when you’re dealing with anything beyond that—especially issues involving safety, complex systems, or compliance—it’s time to let the professionals take over.