There are many projects and repairs around the house that seem like they’d be easier and cheaper to do yourself. While some problems may appear easy to fix for the average DIYer, others actually do require a professional’s expertise, at least to get it done right. Many plumbing systems are well beyond the abilities of the average layman, so before you head to the hardware store and purchase a bunch of supplies, look into the feasibility of doing the job yourself. If there is an issue you’re totally sure you can fix, it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting into. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you avoid the worst plumbing disasters and keep your home dry.
Know How to Turn Water Off
If you try to fix a leak or other plumbing issue without first turning off the main water valve, you’ll soon have a much bigger problem than the one you started with. Before you need it in an emergency situation, find and familiarize yourself with the location of your home’s main water shut off. Sometimes it can be found under your kitchen sink, or where the water line from the street connects to your residence. If you live in an apartment or other community housing area, you probably don’t have access to it.
Before beginning any repair projects to water fixtures, turn off the main valve. Removing or tampering with a pipe while the system is running will inevitably result in flooding. If you’re unable to access the shut off for any reason, call a professional instead of trying to complete the repair yourself.
Don’t Take Things Apart
When taking any fixture or piping apart, it’s important to know exactly how they go back together. Don’t begin a project assuming you’ll be able to learn about a faucet or shower head as you disassemble it. If you’re not already familiar with a particular feature, do some research on it beforehand. Keeping a manual nearby can be helpful, but it’s also a good idea to take pictures at every step so you know exactly how things are supposed to look when putting them back together.
Use Appropriate Tools/Materials
Every homeowner should have a basic toolkit, especially if you’re an experienced DIYer. But plumbing work requires more than just a basic hammer and Phillips-head screwdriver. If you intend to do your own plumbing projects, make sure you have all of the proper tools before starting. You don’t want to get stuck in the middle of the job and not be able to continue because you don’t have the proper equipment.
Similarly, only replace fixtures or plumbing with the exact same model or type of product. A cut garden hose is not an appropriate replacement for actual piping. Even replacing a pipe with one of the same material, but a different diameter, can cause changes in water pressure that lead to bursting or leakage.
Don’t Go Digging for Trouble
If you notice a leak coming out of your wall or even the ground around your property, your first thought might be to dig or cut whatever is in your way to find the source of the problem. However, embarking on such a drastic project will almost certainly result in more problems for your plumbing than there were at the start. Unless you are a professional, don’t go looking for hidden pipes. The chances of you accidentally breaking something are not worth the few dollars you might save by trying to fix the issue on your own.
Plumbing Services in Seattle
For professional, quality plumbing and heating services, contact Puget Sound Plumbing and Heating today. Our team of repair experts has more than 20 years of combined experience and our dedication to customer service means your needs will always be put first. We’re proud to offer repair, replacement and any other plumbing or heating service you might need.