It might be a leaky pipe, a stopped-up sewer line or a loss of water pressure, but all of us experience plumbing problems sooner or later. When such a problem happens, the question you have to answer is whether or not you should call a plumber or attempt to make repairs yourself.
If you are not skilled at home repairs, you might think you should call in a professional no matter how serious the problem, but this can be a mistake that could cost you a lot of money. Likewise, just because you are handy around the house does not mean you will never need to call in an expert.
So, just how do you know if you need to call in a plumber, of if you should attempt the repair yourself?
Leaky Faucets of Pipes
These are usually easily fixed with common tools and parts from the hardware store. Go ahead and try to fix this one yourself before picking up the phone.
Clogged Drains
Most clogged drains can be fixed with a bottle of drain cleaner. If that does not work, try to open the line with a snake if you have one. If that also fails, your only remaining choice is to call in an expert.
Sewer Line Problems
The difference between a clogged drain and a sewer line problem is that the toilets will back up into your showers and tubs in the latter. This indicates a problem with your main sewer line and not an individual drain. It is a serious problem that usually can not be fixed by an amateur. It also requires special equipment, so call a plumber and let him or her handle it.
Hot-Water Heater Problems
No one likes discovering that the hot water heater has gone out. It could be caused by something as simple as a tripped circuit breaker, but if that is not the case, do not attempt to repair it yourself. Working on hot water heaters is specialized work, and unless you have formal training, call in an expert for this one. Even the simplest repairs to a hot water heater are finicky, and you might end up causing a leak or even ruining the tank. Trying to do it yourself is not worth the risk.
Frozen Pipes
This is one of those situations where you may or may not need an expert. Before you call the plumber, turn off your home’s water shutoff valve and inspect the pipes for cracks or breaks. If they are fine, feel free to try and thaw the pipes with a heat gun or hair dryer. If they have already cracked, it is a good idea to call a professional.
Low-Water Pressure
Pressure issues can be caused by many different problems, from an obstruction in the line through a problem with your well or house pump. Always call in an expert to troubleshoot this problem and you will save yourself a lot of time and money in the long run.
This post is brought to you on behalf of ExpressRooter, your professional plumbing service serving the Greater Toronto Area. http://www.expressrooter.ca