Doing plumbing jobs yourself around your own house can save you a lot of money and hassle. There are many plumbing issues that can arise in your home, and the fix is generally fairly simple with the right know-how and tools.
Do Your Research
Getting to know the plumbing layout in your home can help save you a lot of time and effort. Once you know the general layout of the fixtures, drains and pipes in your home you can begin to assess the problem. If your home is older you may want to look for corrosion or rusting of the pipes to see if they need to be repaired or replaced.
Identify the Problem
You can find many how-to home renovation sites to solve certain household plumbing issues yourself. Many common plumbing issues will have step-by-step instructions on how to fix them and what tools to use.
Common household plumbing issues:
- Clogged sink
- Clogged toilet
- Clogged drain
- Leaky faucet
- Leaky toilet tank
- Toilet keeps running
Have the Right Tools
There is nothing worse than getting deep into a plumbing project and realizing that you don’t have the proper tools and supplies to finish up the job. The tools that are required for most plumbing jobs at home are fairly affordable and actually help you to save money by not calling the plumber for every plumbing issue. You may also need a chemical agent or dish cleaner to help break down gunk that is built up in the drain or pipes.
Common tools required for plumbing jobs include:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Washers
- Plunger
- Tongue-and-groove pliers
- Hand auger (plumber’s snake)
- Hacksaw
- Tubing cutter
- Basin wrench
- Pipe wrench
- Metal file
- Propane torch
- Closet auger
- Work gloves
- Protective googles
- Tape measure
Ask for Help
Some plumbing jobs can be difficult to do alone. You may be working in cramped and dark areas where you could use a hand to shine a light, run water or give you a tool. Ask your friends or family to help you for a bit rather than struggling to do it yourself.
Preventative Plumbing
Many plumbing issues arise because people are not tending to the general maintenance of their sinks, drains and toilets. These areas can quickly become clogged with food, hair, toilet paper, cleaners and more leading to backed up sinks, toilets and tubs. Regular maintenance of your drains should include using a drain cleaner to clear out drains. You should also clean out the trap or strainer regularly. Cleaning your faucets and shower heads should improve water flow. Clean and inspect the working order of your toilets regularly to make sure that they are working the way that they are supposed to.
When to Hire a Plumber
There are some plumbing jobs that you should leave to a professional. Although you may think that you are saving money by doing it yourself they may actually cost you more money and effort in the long run.
You should consult a plumber if you are experiencing any of the following:
- No hot water
- Waterline damage
- Low water pressure
- Sewer line stoppage
- Frozen pipes
- Burst pipes
Tending to many home plumbing needs yourself will help you to save money and gain confidence in your abilities around the house.