Plumbing: When To Call The Experts

Many homeowners try to save money by handling household repairs on their own. Yet when it comes to some situations, hiring a professional usually ends up being the most cost-effective choice. An expert can eliminate costly problems down the road by getting the job done right the first time. This is particularly true when it applies to plumbing. While most homeowners can handle simple tasks on their own, these situations require the expertise of a plumber.

Lack of Hot Water
If you don’t have any hot water, check the pilot light in your hot water heater. If this is not the source of the problem, you need to contact a plumber. A lack of hot water can be caused by a blown fuse, a faulty thermostat, or several other problems. A professional can quickly rule out the wrong problems to find the right fix.

Backed up Sewer Line
If your sewer line starts dumping nasty sewage into your home, you need the help of a plumbing professional as soon as possible. The only do-it-yourself fix is a sewer rodding machine, and this can damage your sewer lines, creating even more of a problem. The cause of these backups is often a tree root in the main sewer, but you need the help of an expert to locate and then remove, this blockage.

Pipes That Freeze
When your pipes freeze, you need a plumber. While you can thaw the pipe on your own, you may not have the expertise to find all of the cracks. Thawing a frozen pipe without first fixing and locating the cracks can create a very messy situation.

Replacing Major Components
If you need to replace a major component of your sewer system, like your hot water heater or a toilet, proceed with caution. Plumbing in your home is far more complex than it may look at first. Consult with a plumber to ensure you are doing the project safely, and to ensure that the finished project will meet all building codes in your area.

Low Pressure
Temporary low pressure is not a problem that requires a professional. However, if the low pressure problem is consistent throughout your home, call in an expert. This problem has numerous potential causes, and trying to self-diagnose them is going to be time consuming and potentially costly.

The bottom line when it applies to plumbing is if you doubt your abilities, call the plumber. You would be better served spending the money on a competent professional than risking your safety and the safety of your home by taking on a project you really cannot complete.