Is DIY Plumbing A Good Idea?

Hiring a plumber can be expensive. To save money, some of us may consider attempting DIY repairs and installations. However, this can come with many risks and caveats – especially if you’re taking on a plumbing task for the first time. There definitely are some times when more of us could benefit from attempting DIY plumbing. However, there are also instances where it’s more sensible to tap out. This post delves more into some of the considerations you should make before doing your own plumbing. 

Do your homework

It’s a good idea to check out YouTube videos and online guides before attempting any plumbing task that you’ve never done before. This will give you a clear idea of what to do, and what not to do.

Don’t assume that a job is straightforward. Some plumbing jobs could be more complex than you realise and missing out steps could cause all kinds of problems. If a job looks like it’s going to be too complex, it’s probably a good idea to hire a pro.

Furthermore, it is a particularly good idea to hire a pro when it comes to fixing complex drainage issues, as these types of problems can be hard to navigate yourself. Blocked pipes or sewer line problems, for example, often require specialized equipment that most people do not have in their garage. Professional teams like LCL Plumbing & Drainage have the right tools to clear these obstructions without damage to the property. They use methods like pipe relining to fix leaks without the need to dig up the entire yard. This approach saves time and prevents the mess that comes with traditional excavation. It is often better to call a specialist when a simple drain cleaner does not work.

Check you have the right tools

Some plumbing jobs may require specific tools to carry out. While you may be able to buy these tools online, you should consider whether it’s worth it. Is it more expensive to buy the tool than it is to hire a plumber? Is the tool something that you’re unlikely to ever use again? If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of these, avoid going DIY.

If you do decide to acquire your own tools, make sure to get them from a trusted source. You can buy cheap used tools online, but not all of these will be in great condition. Don’t forget the option of borrowing tools if you know someone who is a plumber or handyman. 

Understand what parts you need

Before you attempt any DIY plumbing, it’s also important to make sure you’ve got the right parts. You don’t want to waste money buying a part that doesn’t fit. Do you research so that you know exactly what part you need. If you can’t work it out, it may be better to hire a plumber to source the part for you.

You can find stainless steel press fittings and other plumbing parts online. Your local home DIY store may also have a selection of parts – including faucets that you touch and measure before you buy. Sourcing a part yourself is likely to be cheaper than asking a plumber to do it, but it depends where you buy the part. 

Avoid gas plumbing

Gas plumbing is one form of plumbing that is best left to the experts. If it goes wrong, it can be disastrous – fires and carbon monoxide leaks are just two of the most serious potential side effects.

A gas certified plumber will be able to make sure everything is installed correctly so that there is no risk of anything going wrong. You can search for these plumbers online. If you know what the problem is, consider ringing up a few different plumbers so that you can find the cheapest quote.