According to Insurance Journal, plumbing-related issues are the cause of up to 19% of all homeowner insurance claims.
When you notice plumbing issues, it can be tempting to try and fix it yourself. But in reality, you may make an already expensive problem, far, far worse.
Here are five instances where DIY plumbing repairs just won’t cut it.
1. Massive Drain Blocks
Most clogs are rather easy to deal with, with a bottle of Drano handling the heavy lifting.
If you’re experiencing frequent clogs, it may be a sign of a larger issue that even the biggest bottle of Drano can’t handle. What’s more, frequent use of cleaning chemicals can actually harm your drain, causing corrosion.
Instead of whittling away at your home’s drainage system, call a professional before your pipes eventually give way.
2. Replacing Internal Plumbing
If you’re particularly stubborn about doing your own plumbing, you may even think it’s a good idea to replace an internal pipe or two.
On the contrary, doing so can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. In fact, simple household fixes can often be the most dangerous.
Furthermore, fitting and securing pipes requires welding tools most people don’t have access to.
3. Repairing or Replacing Water Hoses
If it’s been more than five years since you’ve changed your home’s water hoses, you’re putting your home at great risk.
The water damage caused by a leaky or broken hose can be detrimental to a home’s foundation, facilitating mold and damaging flooring and ceilings.
Though it likely seems like replacing a water hose is a simple task, it involves shutting off your home’s water — something far more difficult than it sounds.
4. It’s Time For a New Water Heater
Your home’s water heater plays a vital role in the comfort of your home, particularly during the colder months of the year.
So when the standard 8-12 year shelf life expires, it may become necessary to replace your home’s heater.
Under no circumstances should you attempt to replace the unit yourself. From steam to scalding water to damage caused by a natural gas leak, there’s simply too much that could go wrong and cause grave injuries.
Call a reputable plumber, instead. An expert plumber in Sydney can help you safely remove your old heater and install your new unit.
5. You’re Considering a New Dishwasher
Did you know that the average dishwasher runs through six gallons of water per cycle? Imagine that something goes wrong with your new installation.
Now, you’re looking at six gallons of water all over your gorgeous kitchen floor.
Dishwashers are surprisingly finicky, especially when you factor in how intricate and interconnected the piping of most homes is. Don’t risk it, call a pro.
Last Thoughts on Why DIY Plumbing Repairs Aren’t Always The Best Call
We’re all in favor of replacing a toilet seat or tightening a loose pipe beneath the sink. But some DIY plumbing repairs are more trouble than they’re worth.
If you’re in the market for plumbing repair, use our business locator to help you find the perfect fit.