DIY Plumbing Repairs: What You Can Fix Yourself and When to Call a Professional

• by Kattie Bayer
• September 19, 2024

When it comes to plumbing issues, many homeowners are tempted to handle the repairs themselves. After all, DIY solutions often seem cost-effective and manageable with the wealth of online tutorials available. But while there are several plumbing tasks you can tackle on your own, others require the expertise of a professional plumber. In this blog, we’ll guide you through common plumbing problems, which ones you can fix yourself, and when it’s time to call in an expert.

Understanding Basic Plumbing Problems and What You Can Fix Yourself

1. Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet can be one of the most annoying—and wasteful—plumbing issues in your home. According to estimates, a single leaky faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. Fortunately, this is often a simple fix that homeowners can manage themselves.

Steps to DIY Repair:

• Turn off the water supply: Before doing any work, make sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet to avoid flooding.
• Disassemble the faucet: Remove the handle and the valve assembly.
• Replace the worn-out washer or O-ring: In most cases, the leak is caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring. Replacing these parts is straightforward and inexpensive.
• Reassemble the faucet: Once you’ve replaced the faulty parts, reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on.

Cost of DIY Repair:Washer and O-ring kits typically cost between $10 and $20. Compare that to the $75 to $150 an expert plumber might charge for this service, and DIY can be a significant savings.

2. Clearing a Clogged Drain

Clogged drains are another common issue that most homeowners experience at some point. These are typically caused by the build-up of soap scum, grease, or hair. If the clog is near the surface, this is a DIY-friendly job.

Steps to DIY Repair:

• Use a plunger: For minor clogs in the sink or toilet, a plunger can be highly effective.
• Use a drain snake: If the plunger doesn’t work, a drain snake can help break up deeper clogs in the pipes.
• DIY drain cleaner: For eco-friendly solutions, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can sometimes help break up small clogs.

Cost of DIY Repair:A plunger costs around $15, and a drain snake can range from $20 to $50. The cost of hiring a plumber to clear a clog can vary between $100 and $250, depending on the severity of the blockage.

3. Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day, significantly increasing your utility bill. Luckily, this is usually an easy fix that doesn’t require a plumber.

Steps to DIY Repair:

• Check the flapper valve: In most cases, a worn-out or misaligned flapper valve is the culprit.
• Adjust the float: Sometimes the float may be set too high, causing water to constantly enter the overflow tube.
• Replace the fill valve: If the fill valve is faulty, you can replace it using a simple repair kit.

Cost of DIY Repair:Toilet repair kits cost between $10 and $30. A plumber might charge $150 to $300 for this service, so it’s a great DIY opportunity to save money.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some plumbing repairs are simple, others can quickly spiral out of control if not handled properly. Here are several situations where you should stop the DIY efforts and call a professional plumber.

1. Recurring Clogged Drains

If you’ve already tried a plunger or drain snake and the problem keeps coming back, this could indicate a deeper issue, such as a blockage in the main sewer line or damaged pipes. Recurring clogs are often more than just a nuisance—they can be a sign of structural damage in the plumbing system.

Call a Plumber:For recurring clogs, a plumber will have access to specialized tools like a hydro-jetter, which can completely clear out the pipes. The cost for professional drain cleaning in Coquitlam typically ranges from $250 to $600, depending on the severity of the problem and the technology used.

2. Water Heater Problems

Water heaters are complex systems that involve both plumbing and electrical components. If you’re experiencing issues like no hot water, inconsistent temperatures, or leaks from the water heater, these are signs that professional assistance is required.

Call a Plumber:Attempting to repair a water heater yourself can be dangerous, especially since many systems involve high-voltage electricity or gas lines. A professional plumber can diagnose the issue and safely perform repairs or replacements. On average, water heater repair costs range from $200 to $900, depending on the problem.

3. Low Water Pressure Throughout the House

Low water pressure can be frustrating, and while it might be tempting to ignore it, this can be a sign of a much bigger problem, such as a leak in the water main or corroded pipes. Fixing these issues requires specialized equipment and expertise.

Call a Plumber:A professional plumber can diagnose the cause of low water pressure, which could be due to mineral buildup, leaks, or pipe damage. The cost to repair this issue depends on the severity but typically ranges from $300 to $1,000, especially if pipe replacement is necessary.

4. Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is an emergency situation that requires immediate professional attention. Water damage can spread quickly, leading to costly repairs for flooring, walls, and furniture.

Call a Plumber:If you notice a burst pipe, immediately shut off the water supply and call a plumber. The average cost for repairing a burst pipe is around $500 to $1,500, depending on the extent of the damage. Emergency services may cost more but are necessary to prevent further damage.

Costs Associated with Plumbing Services

Understanding the potential costs of plumbing repairs can help homeowners make informed decisions about whether to DIY or call a professional. Here’s a quick overview of the estimated costs for common plumbing services in Coquitlam:

• Drain Cleaning: $100 to $600, depending on severity
• Toilet Repair: $150 to $300
• Faucet Repair or Replacement: $75 to $150 for repairs, $200 to $500 for full replacement
• Water Heater Repair: $200 to $900
• Pipe Repair or Replacement: $300 to $1,500

While the upfront costs of professional plumbing services may seem high, these services can save homeowners significant money in the long run by preventing more extensive damage and costly repairs.

When DIY Becomes Risky: Recognizing the Limits

Many homeowners feel a sense of satisfaction from fixing things around the house themselves, but there’s a limit to what should be handled without professional help. Plumbing systems are complex, and improperly handling repairs can lead to bigger problems, including leaks, water damage, and even flooding.

Recognizing the Signs of a Bigger Problem:If you encounter any of the following, it’s time to call an expert:

• Persistent leaks: Even after trying to fix a leak, water continues to seep.
• Multiple clogged drains: If more than one drain in your home is clogging simultaneously, this could indicate a problem in the main sewer line.
• Flooding or water pooling: Water damage is a major concern, and flooding needs immediate professional attention.
• Odd smells or noises: If you notice strange smells (especially sewage smells) or hear gurgling noises coming from your drains, these are signs of deeper plumbing issues that require a plumber.

Quick Statistics: The Cost of Ignoring Plumbing Problems

Did you know that ignoring a plumbing problem can result in major expenses later? According to industry data, homeowners who ignore plumbing issues like small leaks or clogs often face repairs that are 2 to 3 times more expensive than if they had addressed the problem immediately. For example:

• Water damage repairs following a burst pipe can cost up to $5,000, compared to the $300–$1,500 cost to repair the pipe before it bursts.
• Mold remediation due to hidden leaks can run between $2,000 and $6,000, depending on the extent of the damage.

The numbers make it clear—calling a professional when necessary can save homeowners thousands in potential repairs.

How to Find the Right Plumber

Hiring a reliable, experienced plumber is crucial to ensure that your home’s plumbing system remains in good condition. Here are some tips for finding the right plumber in Coquitlam:

• Check reviews: Look for plumbers with strong reviews from local homeowners.
• Ask about licensing and insurance: Make sure your plumber is licensed and insured, which ensures they’re qualified to handle the work.
• Get multiple quotes: For large jobs, get several quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
• Look for local expertise: A local plumbing company like The Crazy Plumber understands the specific plumbing issues faced by homes and businesses in Coquitlam, providing tailored services to meet those needs.

Final Thoughts on DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Repairs

When it comes to plumbing, there are definitely some repairs you can handle on your own. Simple fixes like unclogging a drain or replacing a faucet washer can save you money. However, for more complex problems like water heater repairs, burst pipes, or persistent leaks, hiring a professional plumber is the best course of action.

The Crazy Plumber, based in Coquitlam, specializes in handling a wide range of plumbing issues for both homes and businesses, ensuring that your plumbing system is reliable, safe, and efficient. Whether you need a simple repair or a major plumbing overhaul, our team is here to help. Don’t wait until small problems become major emergencies—contact us today to schedule a professional consultation.

When it comes to plumbing issues, many homeowners are tempted to handle the repairs themselves. After all, DIY solutions often seem cost-effective and manageable with the wealth of online tutorials available. But while there are several plumbing tasks you can tackle on your own, others require the expertise of a professional plumber. In this blog,…