
Plumbing troubles always have a sneaky way of showing up when you least expect them to. Sometimes you wake up to a malfunctioning water heater right when morning chills hit, leaving you shivering under a cold shower when you were hoping for warmth and comfort. Other times, a flooded sink startles you just when you’re having guests for a Friday night dinner.
Often, you find yourself scrambling for emergency repairs when these crises strike. However, picking up your phone doesn’t always have to be your immediate resolve. There are plumbing problems you can tackle yourself without calling in an expert set of hands.
This guide from Hardy Plumbing points out the plumbing problems you can DIY and those that require a pro.
Plumbing Problems You Can Tackle On Your Own
While most plumbing troubles can send you into a frenzy, not all of them will show up as an emergency. Most of the time, there are early signs of compromise before they turn into a complete disaster.
These distress signs are normally your cue to act early. This is the time to try some DIY repairs and relieve your system of brewing trouble. Here are the most common troubles you can repair.
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Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues. Luckily, they’re usually easy to fix. If you have a sink or shower drain that’s running slow, it’s likely due to a buildup of hair, soap, or grease.
For most minor clogs, a plunger will do the job. Make sure it’s a good, heavy-duty plunger to get a tight seal. For tough clogs, you can use a drain snake to break up the blockage. You can also try a homemade solution, like baking soda and vinegar, then flushing it down with hot water.
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Leaky Faucets
A dripping faucet can be more than just annoying—it can waste a lot of water. Fortunately, fixing it is usually an easy task for most DIYers. The issue is often a worn-out washer or cartridge.
First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, use a wrench to remove the handle and access the valve. Replace the faulty part with a new one, and you should be good to go. Just make sure you buy the right replacement part for your faucet model.
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Running Toilet
A toilet that runs nonstop can be a real headache and a burden for your wallet. Most of the time, the culprit is a faulty flapper or flush valve, which is a simple fix.
Start by turning off the water supply. Remove the toilet tank lid and check the flapper. If it’s worn or broken, replace it with a new part you can buy from your local hardware store. Sometimes the chain or float valve needs adjusting. After replacing the necessary parts, your toilet should stop running.
Plumbing Troubles That Require a Professional
A successful DIY plumbing repair is always a rewarding feat. Unfortunately, there are limits to your DIY power. Some plumbing setbacks are too complex for your home remedies. Hence, it’s better to leave them to the experts to avoid further damage and disruption.
Here are the most common plumbing woes that should prompt you to call your local plumber.
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Major Pipe Leaks or Burst Pipes
A burst pipe is a serious business. It can flood your home and cause a ton of damage. If you see water leaking from pipes, always treat it as an emergency plumbing situation. Ignore attempting to fix it yourself and call a plumber to stop the leak and fix the pipe properly.
A pro has the right tools to repair or replace the pipe. They can also assess the situation and prevent further damage.
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Faulty Water Heater
Water heaters don’t last forever. If your water heater isn’t working, it could be due to a few things—broken thermostats, faulty valves, or sediment buildup. While some small issues can be fixed yourself, dealing with gas or electric components is tricky and dangerous.
A plumber can diagnose and fix the problem safely. They also have the experience to replace your water heater if needed.
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Water Backups
If you notice water backing up into your sink, shower, or bathtub, it’s not just a minor clog. Water backups are often caused by bigger issues like blockages in your main sewer line or a clogged vent.
Trying to fix this on your own can lead to further damage. A plumber will use specialized equipment to inspect your pipes and fix the problem.
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Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make showering or doing dishes a huge hassle. There are a few things you can check first, like cleaning the aerator on your faucets. However, if that doesn’t fix the issue, it could be a problem deeper in your plumbing system.
A plumber will check for leaks, blockages, or issues with your water line. If your pressure is low due to old pipes, they can replace them.
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Gas Line Issues
Gas line problems are not to be taken lightly. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call a plumber or gas technician. Even if there’s no smell, any issues with your gas lines should always be handled by a professional.
Gas leaks can be dangerous and require specialized tools to fix. If you suspect a problem, don’t hesitate to call a pro.
No Time for DIY Fixes? Turn to Hardy Plumbing for Hassle-Free Plumbing Repairs
Got a plumbing problem that’s just too tricky to handle on your own? No worries– there’s always a plumber ready to help. While DIY repairs are a reliable first line of defense, insisting on personal repairs on plumbing troubles that are too complex for your untrained hands can only worsen your situation.
At Hardy Plumbing, we provide comprehensive plumbing services that should relieve you of the stress from your stubborn plumbing woes. From drain repairs to gas line solutions, we have the expertise to solve your compromised plumbing without delays and hassle.
Say goodbye to DIY headaches— call Hardy Plumbing now for quick, reliable service that makes your plumbing troubles disappear!
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