Plumbing Issues You Should Not Fix Yourself: When to Call a Professional

Plumbing problems are a common issue in many households. Attempting to fix certain plumbing issues on your own may lead to further damage, higher repair costs, or even health risks. Plumbing systems are complex, and dealing with them requires the right knowledge, tools, and experience.

Major Pipe Leaks and Burst Pipes

One of the most serious plumbing issues you might face is a burst or leaking pipe. While a small leak may seem like an easy fix, large leaks or burst pipes often require immediate professional attention. Trying to repair a burst pipe without proper knowledge can cause significant water damage, mold growth, and increased repair costs. Additionally, these types of repairs often require turning off the water supply and replacing parts of the system, which can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the plumbing infrastructure.

A licensed plumber has the necessary tools and experience to quickly identify the problem, repair or replace the damaged pipe, and prevent further water damage. If you notice a burst pipe, it’s crucial to act quickly by turning off the water supply and calling a professional plumber right away.

Sewer Line Blockages

When you experience slow drains, foul odors, or sewage backups in your home, it could be a sign of a blockage in the sewer line. These blockages can be caused by tree roots, debris buildup, or other obstructions deep within the plumbing system. Sewer line repairs are complicated, as they involve digging up your yard or accessing the line through a system of pipes. Trying to clear a sewer line blockage yourself is not only dangerous but could exacerbate the problem.

Plumbers use specialized equipment such as drain cameras and hydro-jetting machines to locate and clear obstructions in the sewer line. Attempting to fix the problem on your own could lead to more damage or, in worst-case scenarios, a full-scale backup into your home.

Water Heater Problems

Water heater issues are another plumbing problem best left to professionals. Whether it’s a lack of hot water, strange noises, or water that’s too hot or too cold, the inner workings of a water heater are complex and potentially dangerous. If you don’t have the proper training, attempting to fix a water heater could result in serious injuries from burns, electrical shock, or even an explosion.
A licensed plumber will be able to diagnose the issue, whether it’s a faulty thermostat, a broken heating element, or sediment buildup, and fix it safely and efficiently. If your water heater is older and needs replacing, a plumber can install a new one that meets your home’s needs.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are common in kitchens and bathrooms, but some clogs can go deeper into the pipes than you can reach with a plunger or over-the-counter drain cleaner. While a minor clog may be resolved with a plunger or a simple drain snake, more serious blockages, such as those in the main sewer line or pipes deep within your home, require professional intervention.
Using harsh chemicals to clear clogged drains is also dangerous, as they can damage your pipes and may even worsen the clog. A professional plumber has the right tools, like hydro-jetting machines or augers, to clear stubborn clogs without causing further damage to your plumbing system.

Conclusion

While there are certain plumbing tasks that a DIYer can handle, there are many situations where the risks outweigh the benefits of attempting a fix yourself. Major plumbing issues such as burst pipes, gas leaks, water heater malfunctions, and sewer line blockages require the expertise of a licensed professional. Trying to tackle these problems without the proper training can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs or even hazardous situations.

Call Emergency Plumber in Bolton. After you call, we send in a short time the plumber that you need. Besides that, we are 24 hours available. We also collaborate with Emergency Services 24H, Local Services 24H, Emergency Plumber in Worcester, Emergency Plumber in Leicester and Emergency Plumber in Sheffield.