Blog & Ask the Plumber

DIY Plumbing Basics: A Beginner's Guide

Embarking on your first DIY plumbing project can seem daunting, but with a little know-how, you can tackle simple tasks and save yourself some time. But if you are over your head, contact Plymouth Plumbers to help. Understanding the fundamentals of your home's plumbing system is key to tackling these projects confidently.

Start by familiarizing yourself with basic plumbing tools. A wrench, pliers, thread seal, and a plunger are essential for most minor repairs. Additionally, knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located is crucial in case of emergencies.

Simple tasks like fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain are great starting points. Remember to always turn off the water supply when an emergency happens to reduce damage. For more complex issues, like replacing a toilet or installing a new fixture, it's best to consult with Plymouth Plumbers to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.


Common Plumbing Problems and Solutions: When to Call a Pro

Plumbing issues can quickly turn into major headaches if not addressed promptly. Here are some common plumbing problems and their potential solutions, along with guidance on when to call a professional plumber.

Common Plumbing Problems and Solutions

  • Clogged Drains: A common household issue, clogged drains can often be resolved with a plunger or a drain snake. For stubborn clogs, a chemical drain cleaner might be necessary. However, excessive use of chemical cleaners can damage pipes.
  • Leaky Faucets: A leaky faucet is not only annoying but can also waste significant amounts of water. Replacing worn-out washers or O-rings is often a simple fix. If the leak is more severe or the faucet is old, professional replacement might be required.
  • Low Water Pressure: Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, including mineral buildup, faulty pipes, or a malfunctioning water pressure regulator. While minor adjustments can sometimes be made, severe issues may necessitate the expertise of a plumber.

    • When to Call a Plumber

    While many minor plumbing problems can be tackled with DIY solutions, there are instances when it's best to call a professional plumber:

  • Major Leaks: Any leak that is causing significant water damage or is difficult to locate should be addressed by a plumber.
  • Sewer Line Issues: Problems with the sewer line, such as clogs or breaks, can lead to serious health and environmental hazards.
  • Complex Plumbing Repairs: If you're unsure about a repair or if the issue seems beyond your capabilities, it's advisable to consult a plumber.
  • Gas Leaks: Gas leaks are extremely dangerous and should always be handled by a licensed plumber.

    • By understanding common plumbing problems and knowing when to seek professional help, you can save time, money, and potential headaches. Remember, a small plumbing issue can quickly escalate into a major problem if left unattended.

    DIY for a major repair could have cost even more

    Well, I thought a simple DIY Fix... Simple, until it wasn’t. The water had already leaked through the ceiling down to the floor below. Yes, I first shut off the main valve of water to the house, but did not realize that the pipes still had pressure, and the leak continued for a while.

    This was time to call a professional plumber from Plymouth Plumbing and Heating. I was way above my head, the leak from a pipe was somewhere in the floor or wall. After repeated attempts to find it and water leaking into the bottom floor, "time for a pro" my wife mentioned (nicely) again. She was always the sensible one.

    I gave a ring to a local plumber I found on google - the quick rundown to a professional plumber on the phone; faster then a pizza delivery, grub hub or any other delivery service - my doorbell rang. He greeted me with a smile and went to work tracing down the issue.

    Diagnosed within minutes, it definitely was in the wall, from a screw that was too long - my wife hanging a picture several days ago punctured a water line.

    Plymouth Plumbers diagnosed and repaired the pipe quickly. They also pointed us in a direction of someone to repair the damaged drywall.

    I am glad I gave them a call. Handy I am, (most of the time) but this time I called a professional and it could have cost even more without that call.

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