A timely fix to your home or office plumbing system can prevent a small issue from developing into a flood of problems. If you’re handy with tools and don’t mind getting dirty, you may wish to tackle the following five common plumbing repairs as a DIY project. When it comes to protecting your home and property from water damage, however, it’s essential to know when to call a professional plumber for help.
1. Constantly Running Toilets
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cites worn rubber flappers as the most common reason for running toilets. If replacing the valve seal with a new flapper doesn’t solve the problem, a plumber can troubleshoot the fixture for leaks.
2. Clogged Drains
While handheld plastic drain sticks like Zip-It can help slow-moving drains run more freely, clearing stopped-up drains requires specialized equipment. Don’t risk the integrity of your pipes on corrosive chemical drain cleaners. Professionals have tools such as electric cables and hydro jets to clear the drains safely.
3. Dripping Faucets
Most leaky faucets can be fixed by replacing the O-ring gaskets and washers in the valve seat, providing you ensure that the new parts are an exact fit. If these simple plumbing repairs don’t resolve the issue, a plumber can help you determine if you need a new faucet fixture.
4. Undetected Leaks
The EPA reports that nationwide, households waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water annually. You can check your home for undetected leaks by reading your water meter over a two-hour period when no water is in use. Plumbers can use equipment like in-line cameras to pinpoint the location of any leaks.
5. Broken Pipes
A broken or burst pipe is an emergency that requires an immediate plumbing repair from a skilled plumber. To ensure that help is there when you need it, it’s a good idea to establish a relationship with a qualified plumber before an urgent situation arises. For any plumbing related issues, call BTAC at (806) 589-1014.
