The rise of digital tools like Pinterest and YouTube has homeowners taking a DIY approach to many aspects of home care. While this spirit is helpful for things like home décor and cleaning, plumbing is not an area where you want to take risks. Do you know what you can handle by yourself—and when it’s time to contact a professional?
That Stubborn Leaking Faucet
Do you have a leak that just won’t quit? We’ve all been victim to the drip, drip, drip of a kitchen or bathroom sink from time to time, but ignoring this problem could cost some serious money. Some leaks are easy to fix, but if your handy skills don’t seem up to the job, call a professional. Ignoring a leak can lead to a lot of wasted water. According to the EPA, a leak of one drip per second adds up to 3,000 gallons a year. What’s worse, a leak could be a sign of a bigger plumbing problem.
A Clogged Drain
If you step out of a shower that looks more like a soap-filled bathtub, it’s time to call a professional. A clogged drain is more than just an annoyance, it’s a sign of ineffective draining, which can lead to a full-on clog. Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact a professional as soon as possible. Pulling out what you can reach from the clogged drain only buys time—a full snake will eliminate the problem.
Inconsistent Water Pressure
Does your shower pressure ebb and flow, making it a chore to get clean? When water is flowing inconsistently throughout your home, it could be a sign of a serious problem. If you have issues with just one faucet, mineral buildup could be to blame, but several fixtures may indicate a central supply issue. Professional plumbers know how to diagnose and correct the issue.
Your Toilet Seems Clogged
If your toilet backs up and a plunger doesn’t deliver, you may have an underlying problem. The blockage may be too big for a plunger to clear, and attempting to fix it yourself will only cause a bigger mess and potentially further damage to your plumbing. Make an emergency call to a professional to avoid this scenario.
Your Water Heater’s on the Fritz
It’s generally inadvisable to work on your water heater without proper experience: You could risk a scalding or burn injury. Simple adjustments may also become costlier if you don’t know what you’re doing. Leave this maintenance and repair to a professional.
Professional plumbing services can save you time and money in the long run. If you run into any of these scenarios, skip the DIY, and contact the experts at McLay.
