There are many aspects of plumbing that the average homeowner can handle themselves. Some of these can include clearing very minor sink blockages, changing broken rubbers or replacing old taps are among the most common plumbing DIY jobs that you can do in less than an hour.
For the more serious issues, local homeowners call the plumber Melbourne residents rely on for everything from unblocking drains to repairing leaking toilets. When should you consider hiring a professional? Are there plumbing DIY jobs that you should never attempt as DIY projects? Keep reading to find out.
Not All Plumbing Should be a DIY Job
There’s no harm in doing smaller plumbing DIY jobs by yourself. However, there are a few jobs that will always need the skilled expertise of your local plumber. Our experts share a few instances when your plumber should be your first call.
1. Water Leak Detection
Water leaks can be difficult to deal with especially if you don’t know where they’re coming from. Enlisting the help of a Melbourne plumber will make this process so much easier. This is because plumbing experts make use of the latest technology in water leak detection.
This technology makes it easy to detect underground water leaks as well as water main leakage.
Some reasons for water leakage can’t be easily detected. These can include the following:
a. Rusting of water pipes
b. Corrosion in water heaters
c. Clogs in drains past the line where you can see
d. Tree roots that force pipes out of alignment
e. High water pressure that creates stress on pipes and joints
f. Unchecked water hammer that causes water pipes and joints to break
Pipe maintenance and repairs are also made significantly easier when the root cause of the leaks and damages can be detected. This goes a long way toward resolving a problem permanently rather than just creating a temporary fix.
Your plumber will also be able to advise you about the state of your underground plumbing which lets you know whether another potential issue is brewing. You can then budget for the necessary repairs or replacements to avoid a more costly repair down the road.
2. Bespoke Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations
Thanks to home makeover shows and tons of DIY YouTube channels, just about everyone wants to renovate a room in their home, at least once. Especially since these platforms make everything look so quick and easy.
However, many homeowners soon find out that these pumbling DIY jobs are not as straightforward as they look. This is especially true when it comes to bathroom and kitchen renovations. Moving pipes and toilets, adding showers, and installing new wash basins are something that should only be done by professionals.
It only takes one wrong move, or one incorrectly placed pipe to cause extensive water damage in your home. Repairing this could end up costing you more than the budget for the original renovation! A professional plumber will advise you of the best location to place new additions and will add or move pipes and other fixtures safely and correctly.
3. Gas Heating Service and Repair
No matter how tempted you are to do any gas repairs or installations on your own, this is one area that is a huge DIY no-no. The simple reason for this is that Australian law dictates that all gas work (installations and repairs) should always be carried out by a certified gas plumber. This means that any work that you do on your gas lines or appliances is not only dangerous but also illegal.
If you suspect that your gas line or one of your appliances is faulty, switch off the main gas switch and call your plumber immediately. It’s also recommended that you evacuate everyone out of the home until the plumber gives you the all-clear to go back inside. Open windows and doors to clear out any built-up gas.
Common signs of a gas leak include the following:
a. A rotten egg smell in the home which gets stronger near the place where the gas is leaking from.
b. Unusual noises, such as hissing, coming from a gas appliance, heater, or line.
c. A yellow gas flame on your cookers or heaters. (A healthy gas flame is always blue)
Remember that there is never such a thing as a minor gas leak. Never leave a “small leak” to escalate into something worse. Gas is life-threatening and even the smallest amount can be fatal to you and your family.If your gas leak happens after hours, be sure to call the emergency plumber for your area. All homes with gas appliances or heaters should have these numbers handy in case of an issue.
Final Thoughts
Leaving the more complex plumbing work to the professionals is always a wise decision. This will ensure that your plumbing is left functioning the way it should, with little or no damage to your property or other plumbing fixtures. Since most plumbing DIY jobs have a guarantee, you’ll have the assurance that work is done right the first time around!
