Plumbing problems can be inconvenient, but not every issue requires professional intervention. Many minor plumbing fixes can be handled with basic tools and DIY knowledge. However, repairing complex plumbing issues without the right expertise can worsen the problem, leading to costly damage and potential safety risks.
Knowing the difference between a DIY fix and when to call an emergency plumber can save homeowners time, money, and unnecessary stress. Here’s a guide to help you determine which plumbing tasks you can handle yourself and when to seek professional assistance.
Plumbing Issues You Can Fix Yourself
Some common plumbing problems can be resolved with basic tools and a little patience. If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, you may be able to tackle these minor plumbing issues yourself.
Unclogging a Slow Drain
If your sink, shower, or bathtub is draining slowly, the issue is likely caused by hair, soap buildup, or food debris.
DIY Fix:
- Use a plunger to create suction and dislodge minor clogs.
- Pour boiling water down the drain to break up grease and soap residue.
- Try a drain snake or a bent wire hanger to remove hair and blockages.
When to Call a Plumber: If multiple drains are backing up or the clog persists despite your efforts, this could indicate a deeper blockage in the main sewer line that requires professional intervention.
Fixing a Running Toilet
A running toilet wastes water and can significantly increase your utility bills. Often, the cause is a worn-out flapper valve or an improperly adjusted float.
DIY Fix:
- Check the flapper valve to see if it needs cleaning or replacement.
- Adjust the float height to prevent excess water from running into the overflow tube.
- Ensure the chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper isn’t tangled or too tight.
When to Call a Plumber: If the toilet is leaking around the base, making gurgling noises, or the issue persists despite replacing parts, you may have a deeper plumbing problem requiring expert help.
Fixing Low Water Pressure
If your faucets suddenly have low water pressure, the issue may be sediment buildup in the aerator.
DIY Fix:
- Unscrew the aerator at the end of the faucet and clean it.
- Check for partially closed shut-off valves and open them fully.
- If pressure is low throughout the house, inspect for possible leaks in exposed pipes.
When to Call a Plumber: If the entire house has low water pressure or there’s no visible blockage, it could indicate a hidden leak or an issue with the main water supply line.
Plumbing Issues That Require an Emergency Plumber
While some plumbing issues are safe for DIY repairs, others require immediate professional attention to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. Here’s when to call an emergency plumber.
Burst Pipes
A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in minutes, flooding your home and ruining walls, floors, and furniture. This issue requires immediate professional attention.
What to Do While Waiting for a Plumber:
- Turn off the main water supply immediately.
- Move furniture or valuables away from the affected area.
- Call an emergency plumber to assess and repair the damage.
Sewage Backup or Foul Odours
If sewage backs up into your home or you notice a strong sewer smell, this indicates a serious blockage or a damaged sewer line.
Why You Need a Professional:
- Sewage exposure is hazardous and can cause health risks.
- Professional plumbers use specialised equipment like CCTV cameras to locate the blockage.
- The issue may require hydro-jetting or pipe relining to resolve.
Do not attempt to fix a sewer backup yourself—this is a job for a qualified plumber.
No Running Water
If your home has no water supply, it could be due to a serious leak, a broken water main, or a plumbing system failure.
Why You Need a Plumber:
- If neighbours still have water, the problem is within your plumbing system.
- It may indicate a hidden burst pipe or an issue with the main valve.
- A professional can diagnose and fix the issue quickly to restore your water supply.
Overflowing Toilet
An overflowing toilet is more than an inconvenience—it can lead to water damage and unsanitary conditions.
What to Do While Waiting for a Plumber:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet using the shut-off valve.
- Try using a plunger to see if the blockage clears.
- If the issue persists, call an emergency plumber immediately.
A toilet overflow may indicate a more serious plumbing blockage, which requires professional expertise to resolve.
Water Heater Failure
If your hot water system stops working, it can affect your daily routine and comfort.
Signs You Need a Plumber:
- No hot water or water temperature fluctuations.
- Strange noises or leaks around the water heater.
- Rusty or discoloured water coming from taps.
A professional plumber can inspect, repair, or replace the water heater to restore hot water to your home.
Need an Emergency Plumber? Get Fast & Reliable Service Now!
If you’re dealing with a burst pipe, sewage backup, overflowing toilet, or water heater failure, it’s time to call an emergency plumber in Bathurst.
At Expert Plumbing & Solar Services, we provide fast and reliable emergency plumbing solutions to resolve urgent issues efficiently. If you’re unsure whether you need a plumber, contact us today for expert advice and professional plumbing services.
