Reasons to Avoid DIY Plumbing
Plumbing systems can be finicky, and repairs are rarely simple, especially if you have an older home. Homeowners easily accomplish some small jobs, but anything more than a simple swap of shower heads should be handled by a professional plumber. Without even realizing it, you can do more harm than good when attempting a DIY plumbing fix.
For example, when replacing faucets, you can damage the surrounding pipes and connections. Or you can affect the water pressure in your system, causing leaks, pipe breaks, or even dangerous backflow problems. Furthermore, most DIY plumbing repairs are not up to code, creating a legal issue. Consequently, a DIY repair often costs you more time and money than if you had hired a professional to begin with.
For more information on why we recommend you work with an experienced plumber on all plumbing installations and repairs, review our blog here, and keep reading for guidance on what to do when a DIY repair goes wrong.
Tips for Fixing a DIY Plumbing Mistake
If you attempted a DIY plumbing repair and things didn’t turn out how you had hoped, or you’re on the receiving end of someone else’s DIY work, your best bet is to call out a professional plumber to help you fix it. While some small plumbing issues are easy for the average person to fix, larger jobs are most effectively managed with the help of professionals like ours at Moe Plumbing Services.
Important things to tell your plumber after a DIY plumbing issue:
- Describe the original issue
- Show the plumber any removed fixtures or parts that you still have
- Provide an overview of the things that were done in an attempt to repair the problem
- Show your plumber any new issues that have cropped up
Signs of a Plumbing Leak
One of the most common problems associated with DIY plumbing repairs is leaking. However, not all leaks are easy to identify or find. After a DIY plumbing repair, you may notice something is off, but the area where you performed the repair may seem initially fine. This is because leaks frequently show up further down the line from where they originate.
You may see the signs of a plumbing leak without realizing that is what is happening. For example, if you have a slab leak, you may notice that your flooring is warm in certain areas, or your wood flooring may become warped. Meanwhile, if the piping behind your walls is leaking, you may hear water trickling or smell musty odors in the area where the leak is.
If you have a leak, you should:
- Stop using the fixture or plumbing appliance in the affected area
- Turn off the water to the affected area or appliance
- Use buckets or large bowls to capture water from small leaks to help mitigate water damage
- Do your best to clean up any standing water, and continue to monitor the situation until our plumbers can get to you
After discovering a plumbing leak, even if it is small, you should call our repair plumbers as soon as possible. Plumbing leaks can potentially do significant damage, and frequently they are more extensive than they initially appear. It is always recommended that you work with an experienced plumber on all plumbing leak repairs to ensure that the leak is not only correctly diagnosed but also effectively repaired.
Don’t Fear, Moe Plumbing Services Is Here to Help
We know how frustrating it is when a home repair doesn’t go as planned. Our plumbers have the skill and experience to help you reset and repair whatever plumbing problem you’re dealing with. Not only do we provide service across Los Angeles, but we also have extensive experience working on old and vintage homes. This means we can right that wonky DIY repair done years ago before you even moved in.
No matter what you need, Moe Plumbing Services is on the job. Send us a message online to schedule a repair appointment.