Most homeowners are reluctant to call a plumber or any other service person when they think it is a simple fix. There is a mental conversation about the effort and skill the repair will require compared to the cost involved. And when the price appears to exceed the value, most opt to make it a DIY project. And in many cases, the choice is valid. But it is essential to know when the job requires a professional. Making the wrong choice on these repairs can lead to extensive damage to your Granada Hills home and much more costly repairs.
Be Honest With Yourself
No one likes to admit that they feel helpless or inadequate. But those feelings have no place in a discussion about caring for your home. There is a reason you use an expert mechanic for your car, why you go to the best doctor in town, and why you trust a specific plumber with your home’s vital plumbing and drain systems when the job is beyond your skill level. If you are not sure about the process or tools you will need for a job, it is best to call in the pros and know that the work will be done correctly.
Gathering Experience And Confidence
Everyone needs some confidence builders and hands-on experience. But it is best to keep the projects at a beginner level during your learning process. Some of the basic tasks you should be comfortable taking on include:
- A Clogged Drain- This is a fundamental plumbing job that you can take on with little risk of making the situation worse. The only thing to remember is that there are no shortcuts. Never try to remove a clog with a bottle of harsh chemical drain cleaner. These caustic products will make the problem far more costly when they destroy your home’s drain lines. Instead, try pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Wait about five minutes and begin plunging the drain. The baking soda and vinegar should have loosened up the clog. And the plunger will finish the job. And if this process fails, pour a pan of hot water down the drain and plunge a second time. If the drain is still clogged, call in a pro and know that this is a severe clog.
- A Leaky Faucet- If you are ready to watch a video and follow some directions, this can be the second step in your plumbing experience. Google the repair process for your leaking faucet. If the fixture uses replaceable O-rings and washers, you can give the process a try. But be sure to turn off the water before you begin the repair.
- Adjusting A Sink Stopper- Most sink stoppers work on a lever system that resembles an old erector set. Grab some pliers and climb under the sink to change the lever’s travel to correct the movement of the stopper and build a little plumbing confidence.
- Leaking Toilet Fill Line- Replacing a leaking toilet fill line is as easy as installing a garden hose on a faucet. But be sure the water is turned off at the wall valve. Next, flush the toilet to drain the tank as much as possible. You can place an old towel in the tank to soak up the remaining water before replacing it with a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Knowing your limits is essential with DIY projects. When the job exceeds your ability, call (818) 740-6830. The Turbo Plumbing & Rooter team is always here to step in and get the job done quickly and affordably.
