DIY Plumbing vs Hiring a Professional Plumber?

Did you know that you can fix some plumbing problems yourself without calling a plumber? While some jobs require the wisdom of a pro, there are also plenty of tasks that homeowners can take on themselves with the proper instructions and tools. The team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh enjoys helping property owners take control of their plumbing systems. Our reliable plumbers offer a great selection of services, including plumbing repair, maintenance, installation, and more. Are you wondering whether you should call a plumber for your plumbing hassle? Keep reading for information about when to take the DIY approach and when to call in the experts.

When Can Property Owners Safely Perform a Plumbing Repair?

There are several minor plumbing issues that handy homeowners can take care of themselves:

Getting Rid of Occasional Clogs - Everyone experiences toilet or sink clogs from time to time. This is a task that most people can fix fast. Plungers are your best tool for the job; just make sure you're using the right plunger type. This will increase the odds of success and help prevent the spread of contamination. Never use drain cleaner since this can harm pipes and isn't that effective. Recurring clogs usually point to a more challenging drain line or sewer line problem and will require an inspection from a plumber.
Running Toilet - In most cases, a running toilet is caused by a damaged or dysfunctional part inside the tank. Check the chain. If it is tangled or disconnected, then it can make the flushing lever ineffective. You can also check the flappers to see if they need replacement.
Leaking Faucet - A lot of faucet leaks can be blamed on worn-out washers. Replacing the washers can be a simple task if that's the cause of trouble. Just make sure that you turn the water supply off before you start, reassemble the pieces correctly, and secure things tightly in place to avoid future leaks and water damage.
Aerator Installation and Replacement - The majority of standard faucets will be designed to work with aerators. Aerators are a great way to reduce water usage and are very affordable. Follow the manufacturer's directions on attaching to your specific faucet. If it doesn't fit an aerator, you might need to replace the entire fixture, which is a task best left to those with professional experience.
Turning Off the Water Supply - Shutting off the water supply is essential for any plumbing repair and might also be necessary for a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe or collapsed main water line. Locate your valve, and practice turning it off and on, so you know what to do in a crisis.

Plumbing Problems That Require Help from a Professional Plumber

While many property owners can take care of small problems, more complex tasks should be left to those with professional training and experience; examples include:

Water Heater Services
Sump Pump Services
Gas Line Issues
Complex Fixture Installations
Well Pump Problems
Plumbing Renovations
Leak Detection
Pipe Repairs
Annual Inspections and Maintenance Services

If you need help with any of these common plumbing tasks, it's best to call a plumber in your area. They will have the tools and training to get the job done right every time. This saves homeowners a lot of time and money.

Do You Need a Reliable Local Plumber?

Are you looking for an experienced plumber that can perform your next plumbing service? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh today. Our specialists are always ready to lend a hand to nearby homeowners and businesses. Contact our team for more details or to schedule an upcoming appointment for your next inspection, plumbing repair or another essential service.

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