There are many plumbing problems that the average person can deal with. Is your toilet clogged? You can probably solve the problem with a plunger or a bottle of Liquid Plumr. Does your faucet leak? You may just need to replace a small washer or something equally insignificant. But there are other problems that require the help of a professional. No one likes the idea of shelling out hundreds of dollars for a repair, but if you wait too long or try to fix something outside of your comfort zone, you could end up causing more damage and sending the price skyrocketing. When it comes to plumbing, you need to know when you’re just not good enough for the job.
Most plumbing problems indicate the need for a professional. Plumbing hobbyists should stick to fixing things that can be dealt with simply. When you start talking about trying to fix rattling pipes or another problem in the walls, things get complicated and potentially very expensive. A plumber knows exactly what to do and can diagnose a problem based on his years of training and experience. When a problem seems too complicated for you to handle, don’t let ego get in the way of your better judgment.
As mentioned above, slow or clogged drains can usually be managed at home. However, if store-bought remedies or plungers don’t work, you may need to call a plumber. Before you take the responsibility of taking the pipes apart and looking for a clog, just call a professional and see what they have to say. Remember that while you may be spending a lot to have a plumber come to your house, you could be saving untold amounts by not messing with things outside your wheelhouse. Your homeowners insurance is unlikely to cover considerable damage caused by an overzealous hobby handyman.
When you decide that the job is too much for you and that it would be better to hire a professional plumber, be sure to hire one who is quick and easy to work with. Ask your coworkers and friends who they turn to in an emergency. They will probably be able to point you in the right direction. In fact, it’s a good idea to find a quality plumber before something goes wrong, so you know who to call when a problem arises.
